Description
1. Unboxing & Physical Snapshot
- Model & Brand: Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix System Platform) — 1756-EN4TR (ControlLogix-to-EtherNet/IP Bridge Module, Dual-Port Gigabit)
- Physical Dimensions: Standard single-slot 1756 ControlLogix module form factor, measuring approximately 140 mm high x 35 mm wide x 140 mm deep (5.5 in x 1.38 in x 5.5 in).
- Estimated Shipping Weight: 0.45 kg (1.0 lbs) packed inside heavy anti-static shielding, structural cushioning foam, and a reinforced corrugated export carton.
- What’s in the Box: 1756-EN4TR communication module assembly, front display panel, factory traceability tag, and safety/compliance insert (note: RJ45 patch cables and 1756 chassis backplanes are ordered separately).
2. Product Introduction
Managing high-speed data transfer, controller-to-controller messaging, and real-time motion synchronization across demanding industrial automation networks requires high-bandwidth networking hardware. Operating as an advanced network bridge within Allen-Bradley’s ControlLogix architecture, the 1756-EN4TR module connects the ControlLogix backplane to standard EtherNet/IP networks.
Engineered with dual gigabit Ethernet ports, support for Device-Level Ring (DLR) topologies, CIP security features, and IEEE 1588 precision time protocol for synchronized motion, the module ensures deterministic data exchange. Plant automation engineers, system integrators, and network administrators rely on this OEM communication module to secure high plant availability, support extensive node connections, and maintain robust control loop performance.
3. Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Product Series | Allen-Bradley ControlLogix (1756 System Architecture) |
| Model / Part Number | 1756-EN4TR |
| Module Type | EtherNet/IP Communication Bridge Module |
| Communication Ports | 2\timesRJ45 auto-negotiating 10/100/1000 Mbps copper ports (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| Network Topologies | Star, Linear, and Device-Level Ring (DLR) media redundancy |
| Backplane Current Draw | 1.2 A at 5.1 V DC (approx. 3.0 W power dissipation) |
| Connection Capacity | Up to 512 TCP connections and 256 configured CIP motion axes |
| Time Synchronization | IEEE 1588 Precision Time Protocol (PTP) support for distributed motion and sequence of events |
| Operating Temperature | 0^\circC to +60^\circC (32^\circF to 140^\circF) |
| Storage Temperature | -40^\circC to +85^\circC (-40^\circF to +185^\circF) |
4. Global Compliance & Industry Certifications
EtherNet/IP network modules deployed in continuous process, discrete manufacturing, and critical infrastructure environments must satisfy strict third-party standards.
- Certifications: CE Conformity, cULus Listed Industrial Control Equipment, ATEX / IECEx hazardous location options, RCM, and ODVA EtherNet/IP conformance compliance.
- Safety Relevance: The integrated DLR ring recovery mechanism and CIP security protocol layers protect control networks against unexpected media breaks, unauthorized packet injection, and communication snooping.
- Audit Note: Keep network switch configurations, firmware revision records, and IP address assignment maps accessible in your automation engineering repository to satisfy industrial cybersecurity and network health audits.
5. Long-Term Storage & Asset Preservation Guide
Spare communication modules stored in warehouse stockrooms face electrostatic discharge (ESD) risks and electronic component degradation over extended storage cycles (—requiring careful environmental management to ensure immediate plug-and-play readiness). Preserve your asset by executing these procedures:
- Maintain indoor warehouse climates where storage temperatures stay between +10^\circC and +30^\circC while keeping relative humidity strictly below 60% non-condensing.
- Keep the module permanently sealed inside its original factory anti-static moisture-barrier bag alongside active desiccant packs until the exact panel installation window.
- Protect front-panel RJ45 communication ports from dust accumulation, moisture, or bent internal contact pins.
6. Physical Installation Prerequisites
Proper slot alignment, static discharge precautions, and backplane power handling verification are mandatory when installing ControlLogix communication modules.
- Clearance Space: Ensure unobstructed airflow above and below the ControlLogix chassis rack to permit effective thermal dissipation across the module housing.
- Grounding Requirements: Always wear an approved ESD wrist strap connected directly to the chassis ground stud before handling or sliding the module into the backplane slot.
- Power Isolation: While ControlLogix backplanes support live insertion and removal (RIUP), verify system power loads and configuration parameters to prevent unexpected process disruptions.
7. Buyer’s FAQ (Logistics & Compliance Focus)
Q: What Harmonized System (HS) Tariff Code applies to this Allen-Bradley communication module for international shipments?
A: Industrial digital communication apparatus, network interface cards, and programmable logic controller parts typically classify under HS code 8517.62.0050 or 8538.90.8180. Always verify final classifications with your customs broker.
Q: Is the 1756-EN4TR backward compatible with older 1756-ENBT or 1756-EN2T modules?
A: It fits into any standard 1756 ControlLogix chassis and communicates with existing controllers, but offers significantly higher throughput, Gigabit speeds, and enhanced CIP security over older legacy bridges.
Q: What is the Country of Origin (COO) for trade compliance record-keeping?
A: Rockwell Automation hardware is manufactured in certified global production facilities (primarily the United States, Singapore, or Mexico), requiring accurate origin declarations on commercial import paperwork.
Q: Is specialized shock-resistant transit insurance required for international cargo delivery?
A: Yes, because multi-layer printed circuit boards and surface-mount Ethernet transceiver components are sensitive to heavy drop impacts and logistics vibration, full-value freight insurance is strongly recommended.
