Description

Product Overview

The 1747-PIC is a dedicated PC interface converter from Allen-Bradley, engineered specifically for the SLC 500 programmable controller family -1 -2. As a legacy communication bridge, the 1747-PIC enables a standard personal computer to connect to SLC 500 processors that utilize the DH-485 (Data Highway 485) network protocol -6 -10. This converter translates RS-232 signals from a computer’s serial port into the RS-485 signaling format required by DH-485 networks, facilitating programming, monitoring, and troubleshooting tasks -10. The 1747-PIC is an essential tool for maintaining and configuring existing SLC 500 systems, particularly for SLC 5/01, SLC 5/02, and SLC 5/03 processors -5 -8. The 1747-PIC connects to a PC via a DB9 or DB25 connector for RS-232 and interfaces with the controller through an 8-pin Mini-DIN connector for DH-485 -6. While the 1747-PIC is a legacy product, it remains in widespread use across industries due to the enduring presence of SLC 500 systems, and it is best operated with built-in COM1 and COM2 serial ports under Windows 2000, Windows XP, or later operating systems with proper driver support -1 -3.

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name	Parameter Value
Product Model	1747-PIC
Manufacturer	Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
Product Type	RS-232 to DH-485 Interface Converter
Series	SLC 500
PC Side Connector	DB9 or DB25 Female (RS-232)
Controller Side Connector	8-pin Mini-DIN (DH-485)
Communication Protocol	DH-485
Supported Baud Rates	1200, 2400, 9600, 19200 (Default: 19200) -5
COM Port Compatibility	Built-in COM1 and COM2 only (not compatible with USB-to-serial adapters) -2 -3
Supported Operating Systems	Windows 2000, Windows XP, and later (with driver considerations) -1 -3
Power Supply	24V DC External -6
Operating Temperature	0°C to +60°C -6 -10
Storage Temperature	-40°C to +85°C -10
Relative Humidity	5% to 95% (Non-Condensing) -10
Dimensions (Approx.)	13 cm x 10 cm x 20 cm -2
Weight (Approx.)	0.29 kg to 0.34 kg -1 -2

Main Features and Advantages

Reliable protocol conversion for legacy systems: The 1747-PIC delivers dependable communication bridging between modern PCs and legacy SLC 500 controllers. Its primary advantage is the ability to establish a direct programming link to controllers that communicate via DH-485 without requiring complex network configurations -6 -10. The 1747-PIC converts RS-232 signals to the differential RS-485 signals used by DH-485, ensuring stable and reliable data transfer for program uploads, downloads, and online monitoring -10.

Flexible address configuration: The 1747-PIC supports a configurable terminal address from 0 to 31, and the maximum node address on the DH-485 network can be set up to 31 as well, providing flexibility for network integration -5. The converter operates at selectable baud rates of 1200, 2400, 9600, or 19200, with 19200 being the default setting -5. These configurable parameters enable seamless integration into existing networks with various communication requirements.

Compact and portable design: The 1747-PIC is lightweight and compact, making it highly portable for field service and maintenance applications -6 -2. The device typically features status LEDs for power and activity diagnostics, enabling quick verification of operational status -6. Its stand-alone mounting and straightforward connectivity simplify the commissioning process for maintenance technicians and automation engineers -6.

Robust build quality for industrial environments: As an Allen-Bradley product, the 1747-PIC is constructed to meet industrial reliability standards -10. Its wide operating temperature range of 0°C to 60°C ensures reliable performance across various factory floor conditions, and the device supports low power consumption, drawing approximately 2W maximum -10. However, users should note that the 1747-PIC is not compatible with USB-to-serial adapters or serial port extender boards; it is strictly designed for built-in COM1 and COM2 ports -2.