Product Overview of the Allen-Bradley 1794-OV16P

The Allen-Bradley 1794-OV16P belongs to the 1794 Flex I/O family. This module provides sixteen sinking DC outputs for field devices. The "P" suffix stands for Protected outputs. Electronic protection shuts down the module during faults. Short circuits trigger the protection circuit immediately. High temperature conditions also cause module shutdown. Overload conditions activate the same protective response. The module recovers automatically when the fault clears. The processor never receives a fault status from this module.

Technical Specifications

• Brand: Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
• Part Number: 1794-OV16P
• Product Type: Flex I/O Digital Sinking Output Module
• Number of Outputs: 16 Sinking (Protected) Outputs
• Nominal On-state Voltage: 24V DC
• On-state Voltage Range: 10 to 31.2V DC
• Maximum Off-state Voltage: 31.2V DC
• Maximum On-state Current: 500 mA per Channel
• Output Current Rating: 8.0A total per module
• Maximum Off-state Leakage: 0.5 mA
• Maximum On-state Voltage Drop: 0.2V DC
• Maximum Output Delay (Off-to-On): 0.5 ms
• Maximum Output Delay (On-to-Off): 1.0 ms
• Flexbus Current: 80 mA
• Maximum Power Dissipation: 4.2W at 31.2V DC
• Maximum Thermal Dissipation: 14.3 BTU/hr at 31.2V DC
• External Power Supply: 10 to 31.2V DC with 5% AC ripple
• External Supply Current: 20 to 65 mA

Protected Output Feature and Auto-Recovery

The main advantage of the 1794-OV16P is its protected output design. Each channel has electronic protection against multiple fault types. Short circuits on field wiring trigger an immediate shutdown. Overload conditions also cause the protection to activate. High internal temperatures shut down the module safely. The module recovers automatically after fault removal. You do not need to cycle power or replace fuses. The processor never sees a fault status from this module. This design simplifies system diagnostics and maintenance. Your machine keeps running after temporary wiring issues.

Terminal Base Compatibility

The Allen-Bradley 1794-OV16P works with two terminal bases. Compatible bases are the 1794-TB3 and 1794-TB3S. These bases provide sixteen connection points for field wiring. The terminal base connects the output module to your devices. It also carries the Flexbus signals between adjacent modules. Choose the standard TB3 for most applications. The TB3S offers spring-clamp terminals for faster wiring. Both bases mount easily on a standard DIN rail.

Output Performance and Timing

This 1794-OV16P module delivers reliable output switching performance. The maximum Off-to-On delay is only 0.5 milliseconds. The maximum On-to-Off delay measures 1.0 millisecond. These speeds support most industrial machine control applications. The on-state voltage drop stays below 0.2V DC maximum. This low drop minimizes heat generation inside the cabinet. The off-state leakage current stays below 0.5 mA. This low leakage prevents false triggering of sensitive loads. Each channel handles up to 500 mA of continuous current. The entire module handles up to 8A total across all sixteen channels.

Power Supply Requirements

The 1794-OV16P requires an external DC power supply. The acceptable voltage range is 10 to 31.2 Volts DC. This wide range accommodates various industrial power sources. The supply can tolerate up to 5% AC ripple content. The external supply current draw ranges from 20 to 65 mA. The Flexbus draws an additional 80 mA at 5 Volts DC. Maximum power dissipation reaches 4.2 Watts at high voltage. Thermal dissipation peaks at 14.3 BTU per hour. Use a SELV or PELV rated power supply for safety.

Communication and Network Options

The 1794-OV16P works with various network adapters. You can use ControlNet for high-speed deterministic control. DeviceNet works well for device-level networks. EtherNet/IP provides standard Ethernet connectivity. Universal Remote I/O supports legacy system integration. The adapter determines the network protocol for your system. The output module simply responds to the Flexbus commands. This flexibility allows the same module across many systems.

LED Status Indicators

The 1794-OV16P features 16 yellow LED status indicators. Each output channel has one dedicated yellow LED. The LED shows the corresponding output signal state. This provides instant visual feedback for operators. You can see channel status without a programming terminal. This feature speeds up field troubleshooting significantly. The bright LEDs remain visible in typical industrial lighting.

Installation and Hot Swapping

Mount the 1794-OV16P on a standard DIN rail. Simply snap the module onto the rail until it clicks. The module fits into any slot of the Flex I/O system. Ensure the terminal base is properly installed first. Push the Flexbus connector fully to connect with neighbors. You can remove or insert the module under power. This capability allows hot swapping without system shutdown. The module has no direct wiring to the field devices. The terminal base handles all field wiring connections. This design saves time during module replacement.

Extreme Environment Options

The 1794-OV16P has XT versions for harsh environments. XT modules operate in extreme temperatures and high humidity. They also resist corrosive atmospheres better than standard modules. Using XT versions reduces panel and maintenance costs. You avoid expensive external cooling or sealing cabinets. Choose the XT version for outdoor or unheated locations.

Package Contents

• One (1) Allen-Bradley 1794-OV16P Flex I/O Digital Sinking Output Module
• One (1) Installation Instructions Sheet

Common FAQs for the 1794-OV16P

1. What does the P suffix mean on the 1794-OV16P?

The P suffix on 1794-OV16P stands for Protected outputs. Each channel has electronic protection against short circuits and overloads. The module also shuts down during high temperature conditions.

2. Does the 1794-OV16P recover automatically after a fault?

Yes, the 1794-OV16P recovers automatically after fault removal. You do not need to cycle power or reset anything. The processor never receives a fault status from this module.

3. Which terminal bases work with the 1794-OV16P module?

The 1794-OV16P works with the 1794-TB3 and 1794-TB3S terminal bases. The TB3 uses screw terminals for wiring. The TB3S uses spring-clamp terminals for faster installation.

4. What is the maximum current per channel on the 1794-OV16P?

Each channel on the 1794-OV16P handles up to 500 mA maximum. The total module current is limited to 8A across all sixteen outputs. This rating applies at the nominal 24V DC supply voltage.

5. Can I remove the 1794-OV16P while the system is powered?

Yes, the 1794-OV16P supports removal and insertion under power. This feature is called hot swapping. The module has no direct wiring, so replacement is safe and fast.