1756-DHRIO Alternative: DH+ to EtherNet/IP Gateway Converter Guide
A standalone 1756-DHRIO alternative provides the most cost-effective path to bridge modern EtherNet/IP architectures to legacy Data Highway Plus (DH+) networks. The Allen-Bradley 1756-DHRIO ControlLogix communication module historically provided dual-channel DH+ routing, but required an entire 1756 chassis, power supply, and separate Ethernet bridge (1756-ENBT / 1756-EN2T).
The ANC-100e serves as an economical, standalone 1756-DHRIO alternative. It allows industrial facilities to keep existing PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 hardware intact while eliminating the cost, rack space, and complex configuration of ControlLogix bridging chassis.
Why Migrate to a Standalone 1756-DHRIO Alternative?
- 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 unit.
- 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 standard 150Ω / 82Ω terminating resistors.
- 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 setup are done via a standard web browser.
- Substantial Cost Savings: Saves over $4,000 in surplus chassis hardware, wiring, and panel cabinet real estate.
1756-DHRIO Alternative Comparison: ControlLogix Rack vs. ANC-100e
| 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 (all models) & SLC 5/04 |
| DH+ Cable & Speeds | Belden 9463 (57.6k, 115.2k, 230.4k) | Belden 9463 (Auto-Baud / Polarity) |
| Configuration Utility | RSLogix 5000 / RSLinx Classic | Standard Web Browser Interface |
| Total Cost & Availability | $3,500+ / Obsolete Surplus | $1,195 USD / In Stock & Lifetime Warranty |
Need Portable Laptop USB Programming?
For field technicians who need on-demand USB connectivity to service legacy PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 processors directly from Windows 10 & 11 laptops, explore our ANC-120e USB-to-DH+ converter cable.
ANC-100e Ethernet to DH+ Converter
Direct 1756-DHRIO alternative gateway. Bridges Ethernet/IP networks to legacy DH+ PLC-5 & SLC 5/04 systems.
- Direct 1756-DHRIO alternative
- Ignition & FactoryTalk compatible
- 30-day trial & Lifetime warranty
ANC-120e USB to DH+ Cable
Plug-and-play USB programming cable for Allen-Bradley PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 on 64-bit Windows 10 & 11.
- Windows 10 & 11 native support
- Auto Baud & Auto Polarity
- Includes all cables in box