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- ControlNet Programming Cable
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Product Overview
The Allen-Bradley 1786-CP is a ControlNet Network Access Cable used to connect a programming device to an intelligent device on a ControlNet network through its Network Access Port (NAP). It provides a direct access path for engineering workstations, programming terminals, and other supported programming equipment to communicate with PLC processors, scanners, and adapters.
In industrial automation systems, engineers often need to access a running ControlNet network for controller programming, configuration changes, diagnostics, or troubleshooting. The 1786-CP allows a programming device to connect locally through the NAP of a compatible ControlNet device without requiring a permanent connection to the main coaxial trunk cable.
The cable is particularly useful during commissioning and maintenance of PLC-5 ControlNet systems, distributed I/O installations, and machine control networks. A technician can connect a programming terminal at an accessible NAP on a controller or communication device and perform network-related engineering tasks.
One important characteristic of the 1786-CP is its dedicated wiring arrangement. It is not a straight-through cable. Its internal signal connections are specifically arranged for ControlNet network access, including the required transmit, receive, reference, and 24 V DC connections.
The cable also has a specific application limitation: it should be used for temporary local programming access through a NAP, not as a general-purpose connection between ControlNet devices. Incorrect connections, particularly using an ordinary RJ-style cable or connecting separate network segments, can cause communication problems.
For maintenance engineers working with legacy Allen-Bradley ControlNet installations, the 1786-CP serves as a dedicated programming access accessory that simplifies local network diagnostics and controller maintenance.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Allen-Bradley |
| Brand | Rockwell Automation |
| Model | 1786-CP |
| Product Series | ControlNet |
| Product Type | ControlNet Programming Cable |
| Official Product Designation | ControlNet Network Access Cable |
| Cable Function | Programming Device Network Access |
| Connection Interface | Network Access Port (NAP) |
| Application | Temporary Local Programming Access |
| Compatible Devices | Workstations, PLC Processors, Scanners and Adapters |
| Cable Configuration | Non-Straight-Through Wiring |
| Signal Connections | Transmit, Receive, Ground Reference and 24 V DC |
| Cable Length | 10 feet |
| Shipping Weight | 3 kg |
Product Features
- Dedicated ControlNet Access: Connects programming equipment to compatible ControlNet devices through their Network Access Ports.
- Local Programming Connection: Allows engineers to access the network without connecting directly to the main coaxial trunk.
- Non-Straight-Through Wiring: Uses a specific internal pin arrangement for ControlNet network access.
- Multiple Device Applications: Supports access through compatible workstations, PLC processors, scanners, and adapters.
- Integrated Signal Connections: Carries the required transmit, receive, ground-reference, and 24 V DC connections.
- Maintenance Accessibility: Simplifies local controller programming, configuration, and network troubleshooting.
- Dedicated Network Access Design: Avoids the connection problems associated with using an ordinary RJ-style cable.
- Temporary Connection: Intended for local programming access rather than permanent network connection.
- ControlNet System Compatibility: Fits into the established Allen-Bradley ControlNet communication environment.
Product Working Principle
The 1786-CP establishes a communication connection between a programming device and a ControlNet node through the node’s Network Access Port.
Unlike a conventional straight-through communication cable, the 1786-CP uses a specific internal wiring arrangement. Its transmit and receive signal paths are connected according to the ControlNet NAP pin configuration, with additional connections for ground reference and 24 V DC.
A typical connection arrangement is:
Programming Terminal → 1786-CP → ControlNet Network Access Port → ControlNet Device → ControlNet Network
When connected to a compatible ControlNet device, the cable provides the physical communication path required for the programming terminal to access the network.
For example, during PLC commissioning, an engineer can connect a programming workstation to the NAP on a ControlNet communication module. The workstation can then participate in network communication for controller programming and diagnostics.
A programming terminal connected through the 1786-CP is counted as a ControlNet network node. It must therefore have a unique network address to participate correctly in network communication.
The cable has several specific connection restrictions. It must not be used to connect a scanner or adapter directly to a PLC processor, connect two separate ControlNet segments, or establish multiple simultaneous connections from the same programming device to the ControlNet system.
These restrictions are important because the 1786-CP is intended for a specific network access function rather than general-purpose device interconnection.
Role in Allen-Bradley ControlNet Network Architecture
The 1786-CP operates at the physical access level of an Allen-Bradley ControlNet network. It provides a temporary connection between an engineering workstation and an existing network node through the NAP.
In a typical ControlNet architecture, PLC processors and communication modules exchange data through the coaxial trunk network. Remote I/O adapters, scanners, and other intelligent devices participate as network nodes.
The 1786-CP allows a programming terminal to access this communication environment locally without requiring a separate connection to the main trunk cable.
A simplified connection arrangement is:
Programming Workstation → 1786-CP → Network Access Port → ControlNet Node → ControlNet Trunk Network
| System Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Allen-Bradley PLC-5 Controller | Executes control logic and manages automation operations |
| ControlNet Communication Module | Provides network communication for the controller |
| 1786-CP | Connects a programming device through the ControlNet NAP |
| 1784-KTC / 1784-KTCx | Provides a ControlNet communication interface for compatible programming computers |
| 1770-KFC | Provides a communication interface for programming terminal connections |
| ControlNet Network Access Port | Provides a local access point for programming equipment |
| ControlNet Trunk Cable | Carries communication signals between network nodes |
| ControlNet Taps | Connect individual devices to the coaxial trunk |
| Remote I/O Adapters | Interface distributed I/O stations with the ControlNet network |
| RSNetWorx for ControlNet | Supports network configuration and diagnostics |
The 1786-CP is especially useful when engineers need temporary access to a ControlNet installation for commissioning, troubleshooting, or controller configuration without changing the permanent network cabling arrangement.
Industrial Applications
The 1786-CP is primarily used in industrial automation environments where Allen-Bradley ControlNet networks require local programming and maintenance access.
| Industrial Application | Typical Use |
|---|---|
| Automotive Manufacturing | Connecting engineering workstations to PLC-based ControlNet machine networks |
| Packaging Machinery | Accessing controllers for machine configuration and troubleshooting |
| Material Handling | Performing diagnostics on ControlNet conveyor control systems |
| Power Generation | Providing local programming access to compatible control equipment |
| Oil and Gas Automation | Connecting maintenance terminals to ControlNet-based automation devices |
| Chemical Processing | Accessing PLC processors and communication modules during maintenance |
| Water Treatment | Performing controller diagnostics in distributed ControlNet installations |
| Steel Manufacturing | Supporting programming and troubleshooting of industrial PLC networks |
| Assembly Automation | Connecting programming equipment during machine commissioning |
| General Manufacturing | Providing temporary engineering access to ControlNet network nodes |
Installation and Maintenance
- Verify the Cable Model: Confirm that the cable is Allen-Bradley 1786-CP and that the application requires a dedicated ControlNet Network Access Cable.
- Identify the Network Access Port: Locate the NAP on the compatible ControlNet processor, scanner, adapter, or other intelligent device.
- Check Programming Equipment Compatibility: Verify that the programming terminal and its communication interface are suitable for the intended ControlNet connection.
- Inspect the Cable Condition: Check the cable connectors, insulation, and wiring for visible damage before installation.
- Confirm the Connection Arrangement: Ensure that the cable will be used for local programming access rather than connecting two independent ControlNet devices.
- Connect the Programming Device: Attach the appropriate end of the 1786-CP to the programming equipment and the other end to the target device’s NAP.
- Avoid Ordinary RJ Cables: Do not substitute a commercially available RJ-style cable for the 1786-CP, as the wiring arrangement may cause ControlNet communication failures.
- Check Network Addressing: Ensure that the programming terminal has a unique network address when participating as a ControlNet node.
- Establish Programming Communication: Open the appropriate programming or network configuration software and verify communication with the target device.
- Avoid Multiple Simultaneous Connections: Do not use the 1786-CP to establish more than one connection to the ControlNet cable system.
- Disconnect After Maintenance: Remove the cable when local programming or diagnostic work is complete. The NAP is intended for temporary access, not permanent connection.
- Inspect and Store the Cable: Check the connector condition after use and store the cable in a protected location to prevent damage during subsequent maintenance operations.
An additional safety consideration applies when connecting or disconnecting the NAP cable. If the equipment is installed in a hazardous location, follow the applicable electrical safety procedures and ensure that the area is safe before making the connection.
Compatible System Components
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Allen-Bradley 1786-CP | ControlNet Network Access Cable |
| Allen-Bradley 1784-KTC | ControlNet communication interface card |
| Allen-Bradley 1784-KTCx | ControlNet communication interface card |
| Allen-Bradley 1770-KFC | ControlNet communication interface |
| Allen-Bradley PLC-5 ControlNet Processors | Provide PLC control and network communication |
| Allen-Bradley ControlNet Scanners | Manage ControlNet communication with connected devices |
| Allen-Bradley ControlNet Adapters | Connect remote I/O and other devices to the network |
| Allen-Bradley 1786-RG6 | ControlNet RG-6 coaxial trunk cable |
| Allen-Bradley 1786-TPR | Right-angle ControlNet T-tap |
| Allen-Bradley 1786-TPS | Straight ControlNet T-tap |
| RSNetWorx for ControlNet | Network configuration and diagnostic software |
Recommended Related Models
| Model / Product | Product Type | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Allen-Bradley 1784-KTC | ControlNet Communication Interface Card | Connecting compatible programming computers to ControlNet |
| Allen-Bradley 1784-KTCx | ControlNet Communication Interface Card | Providing ControlNet access for engineering workstations |
| Allen-Bradley 1784-PCC | ControlNet PCMCIA Communication Card | Connecting portable computers to ControlNet networks |
| Allen-Bradley 1770-KFC | ControlNet Communication Interface | Providing programming terminal communication access |
| Allen-Bradley 1786-RG6 | ControlNet Coaxial Trunk Cable | Establishing the main coaxial network connection |
| Allen-Bradley 1786-BNC | ControlNet Coaxial BNC Connector | Connecting RG-6 coaxial cables to ControlNet network components |
Key Advantages
- Dedicated cable for ControlNet local programming access.
- Connects engineering workstations through compatible NAP interfaces.
- Supports PLC programming, network configuration, and diagnostics.
- Uses a specific ControlNet signal wiring arrangement.
- Avoids inappropriate connections using ordinary RJ-style cables.
- Allows temporary network access without modifying the main trunk cabling.
- Suitable for commissioning and maintenance of ControlNet-based automation systems.
Technical FAQs
1. What is the main purpose of the Allen-Bradley 1786-CP?
The 1786-CP is used to connect a programming device to a compatible ControlNet node through its Network Access Port. It allows engineers to access PLC processors, scanners, adapters, and other intelligent devices for programming and troubleshooting.
2. Is the 1786-CP a standard straight-through communication cable?
No. The 1786-CP has a dedicated non-straight-through wiring configuration. Its internal transmit and receive connections are arranged for the ControlNet NAP interface, together with ground-reference and 24 V DC connections. It should not be replaced with an ordinary RJ-style cable.
3. Can the 1786-CP be used to connect two separate ControlNet network segments?
No. The cable is intended for programming device access through a NAP. It must not be used to connect two separate ControlNet segments or to connect a scanner or adapter directly to a PLC processor.
4. Does a programming workstation connected through the 1786-CP count as a ControlNet node?
Yes. A programming terminal connected through the 1786-CP participates as a network node and must have a unique network address. This requirement should be considered when configuring the ControlNet network and establishing programming communication.