Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16 SLC 500 16-Channel AC Output Module

The Allen-Bradley 1746-OA16 is a 16-channel AC output module for the SLC 500 PLC family, delivering 240 V AC triac-based switching to control AC loads under PLC program control. Each of the 16 outputs acts as a solid-state AC switch rated up to 500 mA per channel, enabling direct control of small relays, contactor coils, or other 240 VAC loads typical in machine control and automation panels. The module plugs into a compatible 1746 backplane in SLC 500 racks and is activated by the corresponding output bits in the processor's I/O image table. Designed for standard 50/60 Hz electrical systems, the 1746-OA16 supports synchronous, discrete control for sequencing machines, lighting circuits, or heating elements, making it suitable for general-purpose AC output tasks in legacy Rockwell Automation installations. The device comes with 16 independent channels, providing straightforward mapping to single or grouped outputs in ladder logic, and is used when a compact, multi-channel AC switching solution is required within an SLC-500 system.