1756-DHRIO Module Alternative: DH+ to EtherNet/IP Gateway Converter Guide
Deploying a standalone 1756-DHRIO module alternative provides the most cost-effective path to bridge modern EtherNet/IP architectures to legacy Data Highway Plus (DH+) networks. Specifically, Rockwell Automation officially designated the ControlLogix 1756-DHRIO module as discontinued on December 31, 2024, leaving facilities with obsolete communication bridges. Historically, deploying an OEM module required an entire 1756 ControlLogix chassis, power supply, and dedicated Ethernet bridge (1756-ENBT or 1756-EN2T).
The ANC-100e serves as an economical, standalone 1756-DHRIO module alternative. Consequently, it allows industrial manufacturing facilities to keep existing PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 hardware intact while eliminating the high replacement costs, cabinet rack space, and complex multi-hop configuration of ControlLogix bridging chassis.
Why Migrate from the Discontinued 1756-DHRIO Module?
Industrial facilities cannot afford extended downtime caused by obsolete communication hardware. Therefore, deploying the ANC-100e resolves key technical challenges:
- No ControlLogix Rack Required: Replaces the entire 1756 chassis, 1756-PA72/PB72 power supply, and 1756-ENBT Ethernet bridge with a single, compact DIN-rail gateway.
- Full DH+ Physical Layer Compatibility: Directly connects to Belden 9463 (3-conductor Blue Hose) trunk lines across 57.6k, 115.2k, and 230.4k baud rates with auto-polarity detection.
- Seamless SCADA Integration: Bridges legacy DH+ nodes directly into modern platforms like Ignition, Kepware, FactoryTalk View, AVEVA Wonderware, and OPC servers.
- Zero Software Licensing: Eliminates RSLogix 5000 and RSLinx Gateway configuration overhead; diagnostics and network addressing are configured via a standard web browser.
- Substantial Cost Savings: Saves over $4,000 compared to sourcing expensive surplus ControlLogix chassis hardware, power supplies, and bridge cards.
Technical Hardware Comparison: ControlLogix Rack vs. ANC-100e
Compare technical specifications and deployment requirements between traditional rack hardware and the modern standalone gateway:
| Specification / Feature | 1756-DHRIO Chassis Setup | ANC-100e Gateway Bridge |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | ❌ Requires 1756 Rack & Power Supply | ✅ Compact DIN-Rail Mountable |
| Required Hardware | 1756-DHRIO + 1756-ENBT + Chassis | ✅ Single Standalone Unit |
| Supported Processors | PLC-5, SLC 5/04, ControlLogix | ✅ PLC-5 & SLC 5/04 (All Series) |
| DH+ Cable & Speeds | Belden 9463 (Rotary Switch Config) | ✅ Belden 9463 (Auto-Baud & Polarity) |
| Configuration Utility | RSLogix 5000 / RSLinx Routing | ✅ Standard Web Browser Interface |
| Total Cost & Availability | $3,500+ (Discontinued / Surplus Only) | $1,195 USD (In Stock & Lifetime Warranty) |
For comprehensive migration architectures and ProSoft comparisons, read our detailed 1756-DHRIO & ProSoft Alternative Guide.
Standalone 1756-DHRIO alternative for PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 systems. Bridges legacy DH+ nodes to modern plant Ethernet architectures.
- • Standalone DH+ gateway architecture
- • Ignition, Kepware & FactoryTalk compatible
- • 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee & Lifetime warranty
Field programming cable for SLC 5/04 & PLC-5 via RSLogix 500 and RSLinx Classic on Windows 10 & 11.
- • Windows 10 & 11 native driver support
- • Auto Baud & Auto Polarity detection
- • Includes Phoenix & mini-DIN cables
Replace costly ControlLogix bridging racks and high-priced OEM 1784-U2DHP cables. Automation Networks provides factory-warrantied communication converters ready to ship from the USA, backed by a 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee.