Product Summary
The 1794-OC16 Flex I/O module from Allen-Bradley offers 16 non-isolated sourcing digital outputs. It handles a nominal 48V DC load with a maximum current of 500mA per channel. This unit provides a compact solution for controlling actuators, relays, and solenoids within a distributed control system. You can easily mount it on a compatible terminal base like the 1794-TB3. Its hot-swappable design simplifies maintenance without rewiring field devices.
Product Procurement & Buyer Guide
This section helps you align the 1794-OC16 with your exact project need. Industrial panel builders favor this module for its direct field wiring capability. It eliminates the need for extra terminal blocks between logic controllers and devices. This design reduces installation time and potential failure points.
The module delivers a total output current of 8 Amps. This comes from 16 channels each supporting 500mA. You must ensure your overall load stays within this limit. The module operates with a supply voltage between 30V DC and 60V DC. Its nominal rating is 48V DC, making it perfect for standard industrial power systems.

A critical specification is the keyswitch position. You must set this to Position 2 for the 1794-OC16. This prevents accidental insertion of an incompatible module. The physical dimensions measure 3.7 inches by 3.7 inches by 2.7 inches. It weighs only 0.11 kilograms, allowing for flexible mounting.
You can install the unit horizontally or vertically on a DIN rail. The module features 16 yellow LED indicators. These lights show the on-state status of each output channel. This visual feedback is vital for fast troubleshooting during system startup.
The module draws 80mA from the FlexBus at 5V DC. It dissipates 3.7W of power at its maximum 60V DC rating. You must account for this thermal load in your cabinet cooling calculations.
Step-by-Step User & Installation Guide
Proper installation ensures long-term reliability for this module. First, select a compatible terminal base like the 1794-TB3. The 1794-TB3 provides three screw-clamp terminal strips for secure wiring.

Attach the terminal base to the DIN rail first. Hook the top of the base over the rail. Push the bottom until it locks into place. Slide the base tightly against an adjacent adapter module.
Now mount the 1794-OC16 onto the terminal base. The module hooks into the base and engages the FlexBus connector. Tighten the screws to secure the module. Verify the keyswitch is set to Position 2 before insertion.
Wire your field devices to the terminal base strips. The top strip handles I/O connections for channels 0-15. The middle strip connects the voltage common. The bottom strip provides the positive voltage supply.
Use wire sizes from 22 AWG to 12 AWG for connections. Tighten the screw terminals to a torque between 0.56 and 0.79 Nm. Ensure the insulation thickness does not exceed 1.2mm for proper seating.

The 1794-OC16 uses non-isolated outputs. You must ensure the common voltage is stable and clean. The module can withstand 1900V DC for one second between the system and users. This ensures operator safety during normal use.
Power up the system and check each yellow LED. A lit LED confirms the output channel is active. If an output fails, check the load wiring and supply voltage first.

