Product Overview
Downtime on a ControlLogix line rarely waits for a purchase order. The Allen-Bradley 1756-OW16I is a ControlLogix discrete output module built around Sixteen (16) Normally Open (N.O.), individually isolated relay contacts. Because each channel is isolated, one field fault cannot drag the rest of the card down with it — a practical advantage when you are running mixed AC and DC loads on the same chassis.
This is a dry-contact output module, not a solid-state sourcing card. That distinction matters when you need to switch real-world devices rather than logic-level signals.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Series | ControlLogix |
| Outputs | 16, individually isolated |
| Contact form | Normally Open (N.O.) |
| Operating voltage | 5–125V DC; 10–240V AC |
| Output current | 1 A @ 5–30V DC; 0.5 A @ 48V DC; 0.22 A @ 125V DC; 1.5 A @ 120V AC 50/60 Hz; 0.75 A @ 240V AC 50/60 Hz |
| Backplane current @ 5.1V | 150 mA |
| Total backplane power | 4.4 W |
| Power dissipation | 4.5 W @ 60 °C (140 °F) |
| Signal delay | 10 ms max, both transitions |
| Isolation voltage | 50 V continuous |
| Terminal block | 1756-TBCH; 1756-TBS6H |
| Enclosure | None (open-style) |
What the Ratings Mean in Practice
The dual AC/DC operating window lets one card drive 120V AC pilot devices and low-voltage DC solenoids without a separate interface. The 10 ms maximum output delay suits general discrete control; it is not intended for high-speed registration. The 4.5 W dissipation at 60 °C tells you panel thermal planning matters in dense racks.
Where the 1756-OW16I Fits
Oil and gas skids. Isolated contacts separate field wiring from control-side circuits, which simplifies troubleshooting when a valve or heater circuit misbehaves.
Packaging and material handling. Mixed AC/DC loads on one module reduce spare-part count — one card covers several device types.
Upgrade and replacement work. When an older relay output card reaches end of service, the 1756-OW16I slots into ControlLogix chassis positions and keeps existing field wiring largely intact, provided terminations match.
Integration Notes
This module is a ControlLogix platform card. Wiring into a networked architecture may require an external gateway or connection module depending on your topology. Confirm cables, terminal blocks and gateways with your supplier before ordering.
Applicable removable terminal blocks are 1756-TBCH and 1756-TBS6H. The module ships with an RTB.
Selection Checklist
Before you buy, confirm:
- Chassis slot and ControlLogix compatibility
- Whether your loads are AC, DC, or mixed
- Contact current against your actual device inrush
- Terminal block part number you need
- Panel thermal headroom for 4.5 W per module
Please verify current lifecycle status and availability with Oil AutoTech before ordering. As a supplier focused on oil, gas and industrial automation, Oil AutoTech offers hands-on technical selection help and fast dispatch, worldwide.
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | 1756-OW16I (this model) | Typical solid-state DC output |
|---|---|---|
| Contact type | Isolated N.O. relay | Solid-state sourcing |
| AC and DC loads | Both | DC only |
| Channel isolation | Individually isolated | Usually commoned |
| Switching speed | 10 ms max delay | Faster |
| Best for | Mixed loads, isolation | High-speed DC switching |
If your application needs isolated dry contacts across AC and DC, the 1756-OW16I is the practical pick. If you need microsecond switching, a solid-state card is the better fit.
Contact Oil AutoTech today for pricing and availability.
