PRODUCT INFORMATION
Product Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1785-KE is a communication interface module designed for PLC-5 systems. It links intelligent asynchronous RS-232-C devices to a Data Highway Plus network. The module supports both half-duplex and full-duplex communication protocols. It fits directly into a single slot of a compatible 1771 I/O chassis. Backplane power draw is 1.2 Amperes at 5 Volts DC.
This module provides switch-selectable baud rates on the RS-232-C port from 110 to 19200 bps. The Data Highway Plus port operates at a fixed communication rate of 57600 bps. Engineers can integrate computers, terminals, and modems into industrial control architectures. Four onboard switch assemblies configure node addresses, communication rates, and asynchronous link protocol settings. Up to four modules can operate per system.
TECHNICAL DATA
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
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| Category | PLCs |
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| Weight | 2.88 lbs (1.30 kg) |
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| Product Description | Data Highway Plus Communication controller module |
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| Mounting | 1771 Chassis |
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| Compatible controllers | PLC2, PLC3, PLC4, PLC5 controllers |
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| Built-in ports | One (1) Data Highway Plus; One (1) RS232-C |
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| Module Width | Single Slot |
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| DH+ transmission speed | up to 57600 bps |
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| RS232-C transmission speed | 110 to 19200 bps |
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| DH+ cable | 1770-CD |
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| Backplane current draw | 1.2 A at 5VDC |
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| Operating temperature | 0-60 Deg. Celsius. |
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| Storage temperature | -40 to 85 Degree Celsius |
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| Relative Humidity | 5-95% without condensation. |
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| Module Type | Communication Interface Module |
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| Communication Ports | DH+, DH+(1784-T50), and RS-232-C |
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| Rate of Communication | DH+ 57,600 bps, Switch-Selectable RS-232-C 110-1920 |
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| Power Requirement | 1.2 Amperes at 5 Volts DC |
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| Location | 1771-I/O Rack |
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| LEDs | 1 Diagnosis/Status Per Channel |
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| Max Modules Per System | 4 |
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| Coating | Conformal Coat |
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| Required External Power | None |
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| Typical AC Signal Delay (Off) | 29 (+/- 8) ms |
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| Typical DC Signal Delay (Off) | 30 (+/- 7) ms |
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| Wiring Arm | 1771-WN |
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| UPC | 10662468206645 |
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TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Features
- Provides direct communication between RS-232-C intelligent devices and Data Highway Plus networks.
- Supports full-duplex and half-duplex asynchronous communication protocols.
- Offers switch-selectable asynchronous transmission speeds from 110 to 19200 bps.
- Maintains a fixed Data Highway Plus transmission speed of 57600 bps.
- Features dedicated diagnostic and channel status indicators on the front panel.
- Includes four internal switch assemblies for node addressing and protocol configuration.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Applications
- Interfacing industrial personal computers or programming terminals to Data Highway Plus networks.
- Integrating modems and serial telemetry equipment with PLC-5 automation systems.
- Data exchange between PLC-2, PLC-3, PLC-4, and PLC-5 programmable controllers.
- Connecting Allen-Bradley Advisor color graphic systems to plant floor control networks.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Connections / Interfaces
- Asynchronous RS-232-C port with a 15-pin female EIA D-shell connector.
- Data Highway Plus connection through a 3-screw terminal block using Belden 9463 cable.
- Programming terminal port using a 9-pin male EIA D-shell connector for the 1784-T50.
- Backplane connection via standard 1771 chassis slot interface.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Installation Guidelines
- Install the module into any available single slot of a 1771 I/O chassis.
- Key the chassis backplane between pins 6 and 8 and pins 12 and 14.
- Maintain RS-232-C cable runs within the maximum recommended distance of 50 feet.
- Keep Data Highway Plus drop-line cabling within 100 feet of the trunk line.
- Ensure operating ambient temperature remains between 0 and 60 degrees Celsius.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Configuration Guidelines
- Set switch SW1 to configure RS-232-C communication and link protocol options.
- Configure switch SW2 to establish the specific Data Highway Plus node address.
- Use switch SW3 to select baud rates for both network ports.
- Verify switch SW4 remains set to its reserved factory position.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Compatibility
- Operates in standard 1771 I/O chassis alongside PLC-5 processors.
- Interfaces with Allen-Bradley PLC-2, PLC-3, PLC-4, and PLC-5 controllers.
- Uses 1770-CD or Belden 9463 cable for Data Highway Plus network drops.
- Uses 1770-CG terminal interface cable or 1770-CP modem cable for RS-232-C links.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Lifecycle / Replacement Information
- The 1785-KE is intended to replace earlier 1785-KD and 1785-KC communication modules.
- Direct chassis replacement requires verifying onboard switch configurations match existing network settings.
TECHNICAL RESOURCES
Documentation
COMPATIBILITY
Compatibility & Replacement
COMPATIBLE MODELSOperates in standard 1771 I/O chassis alongside PLC-5 processors. Interfaces with Allen-Bradley PLC-2, PLC-3, PLC-4, and PLC-5 controllers. Uses 1770-CD or Belden 9463 cable for Data Highway Plus network drops. Uses 1770-CG terminal interface cable or 1770-CP modem cable for RS-232-C links.
Verify compatibility against the exact Part Number, revision and manufacturer documentation before ordering.
PART VERIFICATION
Before You Order
Industrial automation parts can share similar model names, suffixes and revisions. Confirm the complete manufacturer Part Number before purchase.
01Check Part NumberMatch the complete ordering code on the existing unit.
02Confirm RevisionCheck suffix, hardware or firmware when applicable.
03Send a Label PhotoWe can review a clear label photo when identification is uncertain.
ORDERING PROCESS
From RFQ to Dispatch
1Submit Part Number2Verify Product Identity3Confirm Stock & Condition4Issue Quotation5Dispatch & Tracking
PRODUCT FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the function of the Allen-Bradley 1785-KE module?
The module interfaces intelligent asynchronous RS-232-C serial devices with a Data Highway Plus industrial network.
What earlier modules does the 1785-KE replace?
The 1785-KE replaces earlier Allen-Bradley 1785-KD and 1785-KC communication controller modules.
What are the supported communication speeds on the 1785-KE?
The DH+ port communicates at 57600 bps. The RS-232-C port supports switch-selectable speeds from 110 to 19200 bps.
What is the market reference price for the 1785-KE module?
Observed market reference pricing ranges between 329.00 USD and 665.00 USD. These figures are indicative market reference pricing only and are not a final quotation.