Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1786-FS60 is a 60-meter fiber optic cable assembly used in ControlNet industrial communication networks. It provides an optical transmission path between compatible short-distance fiber repeater interfaces, allowing network communication to extend between equipment areas without relying entirely on coaxial cabling.

The 1786-FS60 belongs to the 1786-FS family of preassembled ControlNet fiber cables. It uses 200-micron fiber with factory-terminated V-pin connectors and is intended for use with the Allen-Bradley 1786-RPFS short-distance fiber repeater.

In a manufacturing facility, ControlNet equipment may be distributed across several production areas. For example, a main PLC cabinet may be installed in an electrical room while a remote control panel serves machinery on the production floor. When the network architecture requires an optical connection between these locations, the 1786-FS60 provides a 60-meter cable link between compatible fiber interfaces.

One practical consideration when selecting this model is the actual cable routing distance. The 1786-FS20 may be sufficient for nearby cabinets, but installations with longer cable routes may require the FS60. Its 60-meter length offers additional routing capacity without moving into the longer cable options of the same series.

The cable uses a Versalink V-System termination arrangement. Since the connectors are installed at the factory, technicians can connect the assembly directly to compatible fiber interfaces without carrying out field termination.

The 1786-FS60 is a passive optical transmission component. It does not independently convert electrical signals or process ControlNet data. Signal conversion takes place in the connected repeater hardware, while the cable maintains the optical path between the network interfaces.

During installation, attention should be given to connector cleanliness, cable bending, and mechanical support. A damaged fiber section or contaminated connector can increase optical attenuation and interrupt communication, even when the connected repeater modules are functioning normally.

Technical Specifications

Product Features

• 60-Meter Cable Assembly: Provides an optical connection for ControlNet installations requiring a longer cable route between compatible network interfaces.
• 200-Micron Fiber: Uses the fiber size specified for the ControlNet short-distance fiber cable family.
• HCS Fiber Construction: Uses hard-clad silica fiber with a 200/230 µm fiber specification.
• V-Pin Connector Termination: Features factory-installed Versalink V-System connectors for compatible repeater interfaces.
• 1786-RPFS Compatibility: Intended for use with the Allen-Bradley short-distance fiber repeater.
• Single-Fiber Configuration: Uses one optical fiber for the communication connection.
• Electromagnetic Interference Immunity: Optical transmission avoids electrical signal coupling from nearby power equipment and motor circuits.
• Factory-Terminated Construction: Eliminates the need for field connector termination during normal installation.
• PVC Cable Jacket: Provides external protection for the fiber assembly during industrial cable routing.
• Passive Operation: Carries optical communication signals without requiring an independent power supply.

Product Working Principle

The 1786-FS60 carries ControlNet communication signals through an optical fiber connection between compatible repeater interfaces.

In a conventional ControlNet coaxial network, communication signals travel through electrical conductors. When the network needs to extend through an optical connection, the 1786-RPFS repeater converts the electrical communication signals into optical signals before transmission through the fiber cable.

The 1786-FS60 carries these optical signals through its HCS fiber core. At the receiving end, the connected fiber interface converts the optical signals back into electrical communication signals for the next ControlNet network section.

A simplified communication path is:

ControlNet Coaxial Network → 1786-RPA → 1786-RPFS → 1786-FS60 → Remote Fiber Interface → ControlNet Network

The cable itself does not perform electrical-to-optical conversion or data processing. Its role is to maintain the optical transmission path between the connected devices.

The V-pin connectors establish the optical connection with the corresponding Versalink interfaces. Correct connector alignment and clean optical contact surfaces are necessary to prevent unnecessary transmission loss.

The 1786-RPFS short-distance fiber system operates at a wavelength of 650 nm and has a specified optical power budget of 4.2 dB. This budget accounts for losses throughout the optical connection, including fiber attenuation, connectors, and splices.

Because the FS60 is a 60-meter assembly, the installation route should be planned to avoid unnecessary connections and excessive bending. Maintaining the cable’s specified mechanical limits helps preserve the optical signal throughout the connection.

Role in Allen-Bradley ControlNet Network Architecture

The 1786-FS60 serves as the optical transmission medium in an Allen-Bradley ControlNet fiber repeater arrangement. It connects compatible short-distance fiber interfaces and allows communication to pass between network sections through an optical path.

A typical mixed-media architecture may use coaxial cable for the main ControlNet trunk and fiber connections for selected links between separated control areas.

A typical arrangement is:

ControlNet Coaxial Trunk → Network Tap → 1786-RPA → 1786-RPFS → 1786-FS60 → Remote Fiber Interface → ControlNet Network

The 1786-FS60 is particularly suitable for network layouts requiring a preassembled optical connection between control cabinets or other separated automation equipment.

Industrial Applications

The 1786-FS60 is used in industrial facilities where ControlNet communication needs to pass between separated equipment areas through short-distance fiber repeater interfaces.

Installation and Maintenance

1. Verify Cable Compatibility: Confirm that the 1786-FS60 is being used with compatible 200/230 µm HCS fiber interfaces and the appropriate ControlNet repeater hardware.
2. Check Repeater Interfaces: Verify that the connected equipment supports the Versalink V-System connector arrangement used by the short-distance fiber system.
3. Inspect the Cable Assembly: Examine the cable jacket and connector ends for cuts, deformation, contamination, or visible mechanical damage before installation.
4. Clean the Connectors: Clean the optical connector surfaces using suitable fiber cleaning materials before connecting the cable.
5. Protect Unused Connectors: Keep protective caps installed whenever the cable is disconnected from the repeater modules.
6. Plan the Cable Route: Map the 60-meter cable route before installation, avoiding sharp edges, moving machinery, and areas exposed to crushing forces.
7. Maintain the Bend Radius: Keep the cable bend radius at or above the specified minimum of 25 mm throughout installation.
8. Control Pulling Force: Do not exceed the maximum pulling tension of 490 N when routing the cable through trays or conduits.
9. Connect the Fiber Interfaces: Align the V-pin connectors with the corresponding Versalink ports on the compatible repeater modules.
10. Provide Cable Support: Secure the cable at appropriate intervals so that unsupported sections do not place excessive mechanical load on the connector assemblies.
11. Verify Network Communication: Restore the system and check repeater status and communication between the connected ControlNet network sections.
12. Document and Store: Record the cable route and connection points. If the cable is removed, reinstall protective caps and store it where the fiber cannot be crushed, kinked, or contaminated.

During troubleshooting, inspect both connector interfaces and the accessible cable route before replacing repeater modules. A localized kink, damaged section, or contaminated connector can increase optical attenuation and interrupt communication.

Compatible System Components

Recommended Related Models

Key Advantages

• 60-meter preassembled cable for ControlNet fiber connections.
• 200-micron HCS fiber construction.
• Factory-terminated Versalink V-System connectors.
• Compatible with the 1786-RPFS short-distance fiber repeater.
• Optical transmission avoids direct electromagnetic interference coupling.
• Reduces field connector termination work.
• Supports mixed coaxial and fiber ControlNet network architectures.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the difference between the 1786-FS60 and the 1786-FS100?

Both models belong to the ControlNet short-distance fiber cable family and use the same general 200-micron fiber and V-pin connector arrangement. The main difference is cable length: the FS60 provides a 60-meter connection, while the FS100 provides a 100-meter connection.

2. Can the 1786-FS60 be used with the 1786-RPFS repeater?

Yes. The 1786-FS60 is listed as a short-distance fiber cable assembly for use with the 1786-RPFS repeater. Its fiber type and Versalink V-System termination match the short-distance fiber architecture.

3. What should be considered when installing the 1786-FS60 in a cable tray?

The cable route should avoid sharp bends, crushing forces, and excessive pulling tension. Maintain the minimum 25 mm bend radius and support the cable so that its weight is not carried entirely by the connector ends.

4. Does the 1786-FS60 require a separate power supply?

No. The 1786-FS60 is a passive fiber optic cable and does not require independent electrical power. The associated repeater hardware requires its specified power supply to perform signal conversion and network communication functions.