Allen Bradley 1756‑CN2RXT ControlLogix-XT Redundant ControlNet Interface Module

The Allen-Bradley 1756-CN2RXT is a high-reliability communication module designed for the ControlLogix-XT system line. It functions as a redundant ControlNet interface, supporting dual BNC channels (Channel A and Channel B) and enabling robust network architectures suited for harsh industrial or extended-environment applications. With a wide operating temperature range (-25 °C to +70 °C), it is optimized for systems demanding high availability and resilience, such as large process plants, oil & gas facilities, or mission-critical control racks.

Technical Specifications

Application Scenarios

The 1756-CN2RXT fits into several demanding industrial deployments, including:

• Redundant Control Systems: Paired in dual-chassis configurations for high-availability applications requiring minimal downtime.

• Harsh or Environmental-Extremes: Suitable for outdoor, offshore, or process plant use with extended temperature range and rugged design.

• High-Node I/O Networks: Supporting large numbers of ControlNet nodes and connections, for distributed I/O architectures.

• ControlNet Media Migration: Bridging legacy ControlNet segments with newer ControlLogix-XT racks.

• Safety-rated or Redundant Media Designs: Used where structure mandates dual channels and fail-over reliability.

Advantages

• Redundancy Ready: Dual ControlNet channels (A/B) enable redundant or segregated media paths, enhancing fault tolerance.

• Extended Temperature Capability: With -25 °C to +70 °C rating, it outperforms standard modules in harsh environments.

• High Connection Density: Supports up to 128 communication connections and many networked nodes, aiding system scalability.

• Compact Module Size: Standard 1756-series slot width and compact footprint ease integration in existing racks.

• Versatile System Integration: The USB port allows local configuration, and the BNC connectors integrate with standard ControlNet coaxial bus.

• Proven Industrial Grade: Designed to withstand shock, vibration, humidity and the rigors of control-system installations.

FAQ (Technical Questions)

1. Q: Can the 1756-CN2RXT be used in a standard (non-redundant) rack?

   A: Yes — while it supports redundancy, it may be used in standalone (single-chassis) systems with one channel.

2. Q: What media does it use for ControlNet communications?

   A: It uses coaxial BNC connectors for ControlNet segments; dual connectors for channel A and B.

3. Q: How many nodes can I connect through this module?

   A: Up to 99 ControlNet nodes are supported, though real-world limits depend on network design.

4. Q: Does the USB port on the module support runtime access?

   A: No — the USB port is intended for local access/configuration only, not for continuous runtime I/O traffic.

5. Q: Is this module suitable for extremely cold environments (below -25 °C)?

   A: Its rated minimum is -25 °C; for colder conditions you should select a module rated accordingly or employ external heating.

6. Q: Can this be mixed with standard ControlLogix rack modules?

   A: Yes — though the extended temperature rating and media emphasise its “XT” use-case; full XT system compliance should be verified with other modules.

7. Q: How is redundancy configured between modules?

   A: Two modules (one in each redundant chassis) must have identical slot position, type, firmware revision and network address for proper pairing in redundant mode.

8. Q: What happens if one channel (A or B) fails?

   A: In redundancy mode the remaining channel continues operation; diagnostic information is available via module status indicators and software.

9. Q: Is the module backward compatible with original CN2 modules?

   A: It functions as a ControlNet bridge like prior modules, but the rating and compatibility with XT-class racks must be confirmed for full environment support.

10. Q: What slot width does it consume in a rack?

    A: It occupies one standard 1756-series rack slot width (same as other communication modules).