Description
Product Model: 1756-EN2TR
Product Brand: Allen Bradley (Rockwell Automation)
Product Series: ControlLogix Communication Modules
Product Features:
- Dual-port Ethernet/IP module for ControlLogix systems
- Supports network redundancy for mission-critical applications
- High-speed data transfer for deterministic industrial communication
- Ideal for large-scale automation and distributed control networks
Product Role & System Fit
The Allen Bradley 1756-EN2TR serves as a dual-port Ethernet/IP communication module for ControlLogix systems. Its main role is to provide reliable network connectivity for distributed automation, enabling communication between controllers, HMIs, SCADA systems, and other Ethernet/IP devices.
This module is particularly valuable in high-availability applications. By supporting network redundancy, the 1756-EN2TR ensures that data continues to flow even if one network path fails. It fits seamlessly into a ControlLogix chassis, allowing integration with multiple I/O modules, specialty cards, and CPUs like the 1756-L72 or 1756-L73.
Facilities that require uninterrupted operations, such as chemical plants, power generation, and large manufacturing sites, rely on this module to maintain deterministic communication and coordination across all connected devices.
Technical Features & Benefits
The 1756-EN2TR Allen Bradley module combines high-speed Ethernet communication with robust redundancy features:
- Dual Ethernet ports: Provide primary and redundant network paths for fault-tolerant communication.
- Deterministic data transfer: Ensures that control signals and process data are delivered without delay, even under heavy network loads.
- Seamless integration with ControlLogix systems: Compatible with all ControlLogix CPUs and I/O modules.
- Built-in diagnostics: Provides LED indicators and software alerts to quickly identify network or module issues.
- High-speed industrial communication: Supports large datasets and real-time I/O messaging.
- Redundant system support: Allows for continuous operation in critical applications by switching to the secondary path automatically if the primary fails.
Field engineers often cite the 1756-EN2TR as essential for industrial networks requiring zero downtime. For example, in a packaging facility, the module ensured uninterrupted communication between the main controller and remote I/O racks, even when a network switch failed mid-shift.
Applications & Industry Context
The 1756-EN2TR is widely deployed across industries that require high reliability and rapid data exchange:
- Automotive manufacturing: Coordinates robotic lines, sensors, and conveyors with deterministic timing.
- Oil & gas: Maintains communication for process monitoring, emergency shutdowns, and safety interlocks.
- Power generation: Provides network connectivity for turbine control, monitoring, and distributed I/O systems.
- Food & beverage: Links multiple process controllers to central supervisory systems to ensure batch consistency and regulatory compliance.
In each case, network reliability is critical. Loss of communication can halt production or, worse, create unsafe conditions. The 1756-EN2TR Allen Bradley module addresses these concerns with dual-port redundancy and robust diagnostics.
Installation & Maintenance Insights
Installing the 1756-EN2TR module requires attention to proper network topology and redundancy configuration. Each port connects to separate network paths to ensure failover capability. Powering down the chassis is recommended during installation, and ESD precautions should be followed to protect sensitive components.
Maintenance is simplified thanks to LED indicators that display network activity, link status, and module health. Engineers can quickly identify and isolate network faults without disrupting the overall ControlLogix system.
It’s also recommended to maintain a spare 1756-EN2TR in inventory for critical applications. The module’s modular design allows rapid replacement, minimizing downtime during network maintenance or unexpected failures.
Technical Specifications Table
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Product Model | 1756-EN2TR |
Brand | Allen Bradley (Rockwell Automation) |
Series | ControlLogix Communication Module |
Function | Dual-port Ethernet/IP network interface |
Communication Ports | 2 (Primary + Redundant) |
Data Rate | 10/100 Mbps |
Network Protocols | Ethernet/IP, CIP |
Diagnostics | LEDs for module health, network activity, fault detection |
Hot-swap Capability | No – chassis power down recommended |
Environmental Rating | Industrial temperature, vibration, and EMI tolerant |
Typical Applications | Distributed control systems, manufacturing, energy, safety systems |
Compliance | CE, UL, industrial EMC standards |
Redundancy Support | Yes, automatic failover between ports |
- 1756-EN2TR
Related Models
- 1756-EN2T Allen Bradley Ethernet/IP Module – single-port version without redundancy
- 1756-ENBT Allen Bradley Ethernet/IP Bridge Module – connects multiple networks
- 1756-EN2FR Allen Bradley Fiber Redundant Ethernet Module – fiber-optic redundancy
- 1756-EN3TR Allen Bradley High-Speed Ethernet/IP Module – advanced speed for large networks
- 1756-IB16 Allen Bradley Digital Input Module – standard I/O module for ControlLogix
- 1756-OB16 Allen Bradley Digital Output Module – standard I/O output card
- 1756-L72 Allen Bradley CPU Module – pairs with 1756-EN2TR for high-performance systems