Allen-Bradley 1738-IB8M8 Vibration-Resistant Input Module with M8 Pico Connectors

Product Overview

The 1738-IB8M8 is a high-durability digital input module from Rockwell Automation’s Allen‑Bradley ArmorPoint™ I/O family. This module provides eight sinking DC input points in a compact, encapsulated housing designed for direct on‑machine installation without the need for a secondary protective enclosure -2-9. Each input channel is accessed via individual M8 (Pico) threaded connectors, offering a space‑efficient solution for high‑density sensor integration in distributed automation architectures -1-11.

The 1738-IB8M8 is a key component of the ArmorPoint modular I/O system, which adopts a “building‑block” design that separates I/O points, communication adapters, and power supplies for flexible system configuration -10. With an IP67/IP69K enclosure rating, the 1738-IB8M8 is specifically engineered for harsh environments where exposure to moisture, dust, and high‑pressure washdowns is routine -2-9. By placing I/O points closer to field sensors, the 1738-IB8M8 reduces wiring complexity and signal interference while simplifying maintenance through standardized quick‑disconnect connections. The module integrates seamlessly with Rockwell Automation control platforms via 1738 communication adapters supporting EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, and ControlNet networks -6. For applications in food processing, automotive assembly, and material handling, the 1738-IB8M8 delivers the ruggedness and performance required for reliable discrete signal acquisition.

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Description

 

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name Value
Product Model 1738-IB8M8
Manufacturer Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
Product Type ArmorPoint Digital Input Module
Number of Inputs 8 sinking DC inputs (single group) -2
Connector Type 8 x M8 (Pico) threaded connectors, 4-pin -11
Nominal Input Voltage 24V DC -2
On‑State Voltage Range 10V DC to 28.8V DC -2-4
Off‑State Maximum Voltage 5V DC -2-10
Nominal On‑State Current 4mA at 24V DC (typical) -2-5
Off‑State Maximum Current 1.5mA -2-4
Input Filter Time 0.5ms hardware + (0…65ms selectable) -4
POINTbus Current Draw 75mA at 5V DC -2-4
Power Dissipation 1.6W at 28.8V DC -4
Isolation Voltage 50V (continuous), Basic Insulation Type -2
Enclosure Rating IP67, NEMA 4X/6P (sealed for on‑machine use) -2-6
Operating Temperature -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to 140°F) -2
Storage Temperature -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to 185°F) -2
Weight 0.88 lbs (0.40 kg) -2
Mounting On‑machine direct mount (no DIN‑rail required) -2

 

Main Features and Advantages

Rugged On‑Machine Design: The 1738-IB8M8 features a fully encapsulated, IP67/IP69K‑rated housing that eliminates the need for a control cabinet in many applications -2-9. This rugged construction allows the 1738-IB8M8 to withstand high‑pressure washdowns, dust ingress, and temporary water immersion, making it suitable for food and beverage processing lines and other sanitary environments. The module’s vibration‑resistant design ensures signal integrity even on moving machinery -2.

Compact M8 Connectivity: The 1738-IB8M8 utilizes eight M8 (Pico) quick‑disconnect connectors, providing a highly compact footprint compared to standard M12 versions -9. Each connector serves a single input channel, with pin assignments standardized across the ArmorPoint family -11. This connectorized approach significantly reduces wiring errors and commissioning time compared to traditional terminal blocks -9. The 1738-IB8M8 supports plug‑and‑play installation, minimizing downtime during maintenance or reconfiguration.

High‑Speed Signal Processing: The 1738-IB8M8 delivers rapid input response with a hardware filter time of just 0.5ms, supplemented by user‑selectable software filtering up to 65ms -4. This makes the 1738-IB8M8 ideal for applications requiring fast reaction to proximity sensors, limit switches, and pushbuttons -9. Per‑channel green LED indicators provide immediate visual feedback on input status, simplifying troubleshooting -10-11.

Seamless System Integration: The 1738-IB8M8 integrates with Rockwell Automation’s Integrated Architecture™ via 1738 communication adapters supporting EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet, and ControlNet networks -6. Configuration is streamlined through Studio 5000 Logix Designer® environment with Add‑on Profiles (AOPs), allowing engineers to efficiently deploy the 1738-IB8M8 in distributed control architectures. The module supports point‑level diagnostics, enabling the PLC to monitor remote module health -12. The 1738-IB8M8 also supports hot‑swapping, allowing module replacement without system shutdown when used with compatible adapters -6.

 

Application Field

Food and Beverage Processing: The 1738-IB8M8 is ideally suited for food and beverage production lines that require frequent high‑pressure washdowns and chemical cleaning -2-9. Its IP69K sealing ensures reliable operation on conveyors, fillers, and packaging equipment where exposure to moisture and cleaning agents is constant. The 1738-IB8M8 interfaces directly with proximity sensors and photoelectric sensors used for product detection, counting, and position monitoring, all without the need for a protective enclosure -6.

Automotive Manufacturing: In automotive assembly plants, the 1738-IB8M8 supports welding cells, robotic stations, and conveyor systems -2. The module’s vibration‑resistant M8 connectors prevent accidental disconnection due to machine movement, ensuring high signal integrity for sensor arrays monitoring part presence and positioning. The 1738-IB8M8 can be mounted directly on robot arms or machine frames where space is limited, reducing cabling runs and improving system response times -9.

Material Handling and Logistics: The 1738-IB8M8 is widely deployed in automated storage and retrieval systems, sortation equipment, and conveyor networks -6. It provides high‑density sensing capability for packages, totes, and pallets, interfacing with inductive, capacitive, and optical sensors. The distributed nature of ArmorPoint systems allows the 1738-IB8M8 to be placed close to the sensors, minimizing cable runs and simplifying system architecture for large‑scale material handling facilities -12.

Machine Building and OEM Equipment: For original equipment manufacturers, the 1738-IB8M8 offers a space‑saving, rugged I/O solution for modular machine designs -9. Its on‑machine mounting capability eliminates the need for dedicated control cabinets on small machine skids, reducing overall equipment footprint -2. The standardized M8 connectors allow for quick assembly and disassembly, supporting efficient production and field service -9.

Contact Us WhatsApp / Wechat:+86 18150087953
Phone:+86 18150087953
Email:sales@cxplcmro.com