
( Brand: Allen Bradley ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: E-9646 )
The **Allen-Bradley E9646** is a high-performance, industrial-grade **120VAC, 120VDC, or 24VDC** power supply module designed for demanding automation and control applications within factory automation, process control, and machine integration systems. Part of Rockwell Automation s robust **PowerFlex** and **PowerFlex 755** series, this compact yet powerful unit delivers reliable, clean power to critical components such as variable frequency drives (VFDs), PLCs, sensors, and other low-voltage control devices. Engineered with precision, the E9646 features a **fixed output voltage** of either **120VAC, 120VDC, or 24VDC**, providing consistent and stable power delivery to ensure seamless operation of connected equipment. Its **isolated design** enhances safety by preventing ground loops and protecting sensitive electronics from voltage spikes, surges, and electrical noise a critical consideration in industrial environments where power quality can fluctuate due to motor starting, welding, or other high-inrush loads.
Constructed with **industrial-grade materials**, the E9646 is built to withstand harsh operating conditions, including temperature extremes (ranging from **-40 C to 70 C**), high humidity levels, and exposure to dust and vibration, making it ideal for use in manufacturing plants, oil and gas facilities, and other rugged environments. Its **compact, DIN-rail-mountable form factor** allows for efficient space utilization in control panels, while its **fan-cooled or convection-cooled** options ensure efficient heat dissipation without compromising performance. The unit incorporates **overcurrent, overvoltage, and short-circuit protection**, along with **remote sensing capabilities**, enabling precise voltage regulation and fault detection to minimize downtime and extend the lifespan of connected devices. Additionally, the E9646 is **compatible with Rockwell Automation s ControlLogix, CompactLogix, and Micro800 PLC platforms**, as well as third-party systems, making it a versatile choice for integrators and engineers seeking a reliable power solution.
Beyond its technical specifications, the E9646 stands out for its **modular flexibility**, allowing for easy integration into larger power distribution systems through parallel operation with other compatible units, thereby increasing overall system redundancy and capacity. Its **low ripple and noise output** ensures that sensitive control signals remain free from interference, which is essential for maintaining the accuracy of motor control, positioning systems, and other precision applications. Furthermore, the unit s **long-term reliability** is backed by Rockwell Automation s reputation for quality and support, offering extended warranty options and access to technical documentation, firmware updates, and replacement parts. Whether deployed in a high-speed packaging line, a chemical processing plant, or an automated material handling system, the **Allen-Bradley E9646** delivers the dependable, high-quality power required to keep industrial operations running smoothly and efficiently.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying an Allen-Bradley E9646 (E9646) PLC Module**
The **Allen-Bradley E9646** is a **CompactLogix 5370 series** PLC module, specifically a **1768-L32ERM** (E9646) baseplate with a **1768-L32ER** CPU. Below is a detailed analysis of its advantages and disadvantages.
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### **Pros**
1. **High Performance and Reliability**
- The **CompactLogix 5370** series is built on a robust architecture, offering **faster processing speeds** (up to **100 MHz**) compared to older PLC models.
- **Redundancy support** (via **CompactLogix 5370R**) ensures minimal downtime in critical applications.
- **Deterministic Ethernet communication** (via **EtherNet/IP**) improves real-time control.
2. **Scalability and Flexibility**
- Supports **up to 16 slots** (including the baseplate), allowing expansion with **I/O modules, communication modules, and advanced controllers**.
- **Modular design** allows mixing and matching different **1768 (CompactLogix) and 1756 (ControlLogix)** modules, providing flexibility for different applications.
- **High I/O capacity** (up to **1,024 digital I/O points** when combined with appropriate modules).
3. **Advanced Communication and Protocol Support**
- **EtherNet/IP** (native support) enables seamless integration with **Rockwell Automation s ControlLogix, Studio 5000, and third-party devices**.
- Supports **CIP (Common Industrial Protocol)** for **device-level communication**, improving automation efficiency.
- Optional **Wireless (802.11) and serial (RS-232/485) communication** modules available for remote monitoring.
4. **Enhanced Programming and Diagnostics**
- **Studio 5000 Logix Designer** provides a **graphical programming environment** (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram, Sequential Function Chart).
- **Built-in diagnostics** (via **System Monitor**) help quickly identify faults, reducing troubleshooting time.
- **Remote access and cloud integration** possible via **FactoryTalk View SE/ME** and **FactoryTalk AssetMonitor**.
5. **Compatibility with Modern Automation Systems**
- Works seamlessly with **Rockwell s Safety, Motion, and Vision modules**.
- Supports **OPC UA** for **Industry 4.0** and **IIoT applications**.
- **Backward and forward compatibility** with many **Allen-Bradley and third-party devices**.
6. **Long-Term Availability and Support**
- As part of the **CompactLogix 5370 series**, it is **still supported by Rockwell Automation** (though newer models like **5580** are preferred for new projects).
- **Spare parts and replacement modules** are widely available in the market.
7. **Cost-Effective for Mid-Sized Applications**
- More affordable than **ControlLogix 5560/5580** while offering **similar performance** in many cases.
- **Lower power consumption** ( **20W**) compared to larger PLCs, reducing operational costs.
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### **Cons**
1. **Outdated Compared to Newer Models**
- The **CompactLogix 5370** is **not the latest generation** (replaced by **5580 series** in 2020).
- **5580 series** offers **higher processing power (up to 1 GHz), more Ethernet ports, and better security features**.
- **5370 lacks built-in security certifications** (e.g., **IEC 62443**), which are critical for modern industrial cybersecurity standards.
2. **Limited Memory and Storage**
- **User memory is limited to 2 MB** (compared to **4 MB in newer models**), which may restrict complex applications.
- **No built-in USB or SD card slot** (unlike some newer PLCs), requiring external storage for backups.
3. **Fewer Expansion Options**
- **No built-in Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity** (must use separate modules).
- **Limited analog I/O options** compared to **ControlLogix**, which may require additional modules for high-resolution applications.
4. **Deprecation in Favor of Newer Technologies**
- Rockwell Automation has **shifted focus to ControlLogix 5580 and Micro850** for new installations.
- **Training and support for 5370 may decrease** over time, making long-term maintenance potentially harder.
- **Studio 5000 software** is still supported, but **new features and optimizations** are primarily for newer PLCs.
5. **Physical Size and Installation Constraints**
- **Larger than Micro850 or MicroLogix**, requiring more space in control panels.
- **Not as compact as newer micro-PLCs**, which may be a drawback for space-constrained applications.
6. **Potential Compatibility Issues with Future Software**
- While **Studio 5000 is still supported**, future updates may **prioritize newer PLC models**, leading to potential **software limitations**.
- **Cloud and edge computing integrations** are more developed for **5580 and newer models**.
7. **Higher Initial Cost Than Micro-PLCs**
- While cheaper than **ControlLogix 5560/5580**, it is **more expensive than Micro850 or MicroLogix** for simple applications.
- **Additional modules (e.g., Ethernet, analog I/O) can increase total cost**.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Allen-Bradley E9646 (1768-L32ERM)** is a **reliable, high-performance PLC** well-suited for **mid-sized automation applications** where **EtherNet/IP, redundancy, and scalability** are required. It remains a **solid choice for existing systems** or projects where **backward compatibility with older Rockwell setups** is necessary.
However, if **cost efficiency, future-proofing, and advanced features** (such as **higher processing power, better security, and cloud integration**) are priorities, **newer models like the ControlLogix 5580 or Micro850** may be more appropriate.
For **new installations**, unless **specific 5370 compatibility is required**, investing in a **more modern PLC** (e.g., **5580 or Micro850**) would be **recommended** to ensure **long-term support, better performance, and easier integration with Industry 4.0 technologies**.
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### **Final Recommendation**
- **Buy the E9646 if:**- You are **upgrading an existing CompactLogix 5370 system**.
- Your application requires **EtherNet/IP, redundancy, or high I/O capacity**.
- You need **a balance between performance and cost** for a **mid-sized control system**.
- **Studio 5000 and Rockwell ecosystem integration** is critical.
- **Avoid the E9646 if:**- You are **starting a new project** and can afford a **newer PLC (5580 or Micro850)**.
- **Security, cloud integration, or Industry 4.0 features** are a priority.
- Your budget allows for a **more compact and cost-effective solution** (e.g., **Micro850 for simple controls**).
- You anticipate **long-term scalability needs** that may exceed the **5370 s memory and expansion limits**.
For **most new applications**, **Rockwell s ControlLogix 5580 or Micro850** would be the **better long-term investment**, but the **E9646 remains a strong choice for legacy or mid-range automation tasks**.
Sells new and surplus product develops channels to purchase such. Call to use a shipping service other than the ones listed. Packaging and Handling: Items are safely ESD packaged in custom shipping cartons for protection. ALLEN BRADLEY E-9646 / E9646 USED DISCONTINUED BY MANUFACTURER, COIL CLAMP, FOR SIZE-3, 100 AMP, MOUNTABLE.
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