Description
Technical Parameters
- Part Number: 1786-RPFPXLB
- Manufacturer: Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley
- Module Type: ControlNet Fiber Media Repeater Adapter (Long-Range)
- Wavelength: 1310 nm
- Fiber Type: Single-mode fiber (9/125 µm)
- Connector Type: ST (Straight Tip)
- Max Distance: Up to 20 km (12.4 miles) — Depending on cable quality and connection points
- Power Consumption: 5W via the 1786-RPFM backplane
Product Description
The Allen-Bradley 1786-RPFPXLB is a high-performance, single-mode fiber optic repeater module designed for ControlNet networks. It is a plug-in component for the 1786-RPF repeater base or modular repeater hub. This “XLB” variant is specifically engineered for Long-Range applications, significantly extending the physical reach of a ControlNet segment far beyond the limits of standard coaxial cable or multi-mode fiber.
By converting the electrical ControlNet signals into optical pulses at the 1310 nm wavelength, this module allows for reliable data transmission over several kilometers. It provides total electrical isolation between network nodes, making it immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and lightning strikes, which is essential for outdoor or inter-building cable runs.
Application Areas
- Site-to-Site Networking: Connecting two separate plant buildings into a single ControlNet domain.
- Geographically Distributed I/O: Monitoring remote pump stations or conveyor systems spanning large distances.
- High-Interference Zones: Running communication lines through areas with high-voltage switchgear or heavy motor noise.
- Corrosive Environments: Using fiber optics to avoid the oxidation issues associated with copper BNC connectors in chemical plants.
Product Specifications
- Weight: 0.15 kg (Module only)
- Dimensions: 8.9 cm x 2.5 cm x 11.4 cm
- Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F)
- Communication Rate: 5 Mbps (Standard ControlNet speed)
- Optical Budget: Approximately 10–12 dB
Operating Precautions
- Single-Mode Requirement: This module must be used with single-mode fiber optic cable. Using multi-mode fiber will result in extreme signal dispersion and link failure.
- Laser Safety: This module uses a Class 1 laser. While generally safe, avoid looking directly into the ST ports or the end of a live fiber cable to prevent potential eye injury.
- Optical Attenuation: For very short distances (less than 1 km), you may need to use inline optical attenuators to prevent “blinding” the receiver with a signal that is too strong.
- Repeater Base Requirement: This module cannot function standalone; it must be inserted into a 1786-RPFS or 1786-RPFM repeater power supply/base module.
Recommended Similar Products
| Model Number | Product Description | Fiber Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1786-RPFM | Repeater Medium-Distance Module | Multi-mode (62.5µm) |
| 1786-RPFRL | Repeater Long-Range Module | Single-mode (15 km) |
| 1786-RPFS | Repeater Short-Distance Module | Multi-mode (820nm) |
| 1786-TPS | ControlNet Coax Tap | Coaxial Copper |
| 1756-CNB | ControlNet Bridge Module | Logix5000 Series |
