Description
Unboxing & Hardware Overview
- Manufacturer & Architecture: ProSoft Technology (Industrial Communication Gateways / PLX51 Series)
- Part Number / Model: PLX51-DF1-ENI (Function: DF1 to EtherNet/IP Routing Module / NET-ENI Replacement)
- Product Type: Serial-to-Ethernet Protocol Converter and Routing Gateway
- Physical Dimensions: Compact DIN-rail mount plastic enclosure measuring 101.0 mm x 22.5 mm x 120.0 mm (H x W x D)
- Estimated Shipping Weight: ~1.0 lb (0.45 kg) enclosed in heavy industrial anti-static ESD shielding and structural protective cushioning
- Primary Condition Status: Factory New / New Surplus / Standard Industrial Stock (verify exact regional availability with provider prior to dispatch)
Product Introduction
The ProSoft Technology PLX51-DF1-ENI is an advanced industrial communication gateway specifically engineered to serve as a modern, drop-in replacement for Rockwell Automation’s discontinued legacy 1761-NET-ENI module. It provides seamless EtherNet/IP connectivity for legacy serial devices such as SLC™ 500, MicroLogix™, and PLC-5 controllers, as well as third-party DF1-enabled hardware.
The module facilitates critical legacy plant modernization tasks—allowing engineers to upload and download PLC programs over Ethernet, bridge communication between disparate controllers, upgrade HMIs, and integrate older serial assets into modern Logix-based control or SCADA networks using intuitive direct-to-tag technology.
Core Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Product Model | PLX51-DF1-ENI (DF1 Routing Gateway) |
| System Compatibility | Rockwell Automation SLC 500, MicroLogix, CompactLogix, ControlLogix, and DF1 Serial Devices |
| Ethernet Interface | RJ45 connector, 10/100 Mbps, Full/Half Duplex, Auto-MDIX (Max 20 ARP/TCP, 10 CIP connections) |
| Serial / DF1 Port | DF1 Full Duplex, DF1 Half Duplex, DF1 Radio Modem |
| Serial Baud Rates | 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200 bps |
| Power Requirements | 10 to 24/28 VDC (approx. 70 mA @ 24 VDC / 1.7 W consumption) |
| Enclosure Rating | IP20 / NEMA Open Type Plastic Housing |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +70°C (-4°F to 158°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F) |
| Relative Humidity | 10% to 95% non-condensing |
Compliance & Standards Alignment
- Certified for hazardous environments: UL/cUL Class 1 Division 2, ATEX Letter of Conformity, and IECEx standards.
- Complies with rigorous industrial electromagnetic compatibility guidelines, including CE, RoHS, Reach compliance, and ODVA EtherNet/IP conformance.
Technical Note: The module incorporates a built-in packet analyzer specifically tailored for DF1 networks, allowing automation technicians to capture traffic and quickly troubleshoot serial framing, parity, or routing errors directly from the configuration software.
Storage & Asset Preservation Guidelines
- Store the gateway unit inside its original manufacturer antistatic packaging to shield internal logic chips and transceivers from electrostatic discharge.
- Maintain warehouse storage environments where ambient temperatures remain stable and relative humidity stays strictly below 60%.
- Avoid dropping or applying heavy mechanical stress to the plastic housing or terminal blocks to prevent damage to the DIN-rail latch mechanism.
Physical Installation Prerequisites
- Ensure that all external control power supplies and connected loop circuits are fully de-energized and locked out (LOTO) prior to physical mounting or wiring.
- Mount the unit onto a standard 35mm DIN rail inside a protective industrial control panel enclosure providing a minimum of IP54 environmental defense.
- Terminate incoming power wires (18 to 24 AWG) securely to the 3-way removable screw terminal block, ensuring proper earth ground termination via the module’s dedicated mounting base.
Buyer’s FAQ & Logistics
Q: What Harmonized System (HS) code applies to this communication gateway?
A: Industrial networking routers, data communication gateways, and protocol converters typically classify under HS code 8517.62 (Machines for reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data) or 8538.90. Confirm final parameters with your customs broker.
Q: Is the PLX51-DF1-ENI directly pin-compatible and software-compatible with the old 1761-NET-ENI?
A: While it serves as the direct functional replacement for the obsolete Rockwell NET-ENI, it utilizes ProSoft’s modern PLX50 configuration utility and advanced routing architecture rather than direct drop-in configuration cloning. Review migration technical notes before swapping.
Q: Is the listed online price final for procurement?
A: Note: Price is subject to market availability, supplier tier, and shipping terms; contact our technical sales desk for a formal, time-sensitive quotation.
