ProSoft AN-X2-AB-DHRIO & AN-X4: Technical Overview, Operating Modes & DH+ Alternatives
The ProSoft AN-X2-AB-DHRIO and next-generation AN-X4-AB-DHRIO gateways were originally designed to provide phased migration pathways for legacy Allen-Bradley architectures. Specifically, by selecting dedicated operating modes during configuration, these multi-mode modules allow users to interface EtherNet/IP networks with legacy Data Highway Plus (DH+), Remote I/O (RIO), legacy drives, and Flex I/O adapters.
Consequently, following the lifecycle discontinuation of the AN-X2 series, engineering teams frequently require an active hardware solution dedicated to DH+ to EtherNet/IP communications. Furthermore, plant engineers often prefer a focused bridge to maintain PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 systems without managing multi-mode firmware or sourcing discontinued surplus modules.
Dedicated AN-X2-AB-DHRIO Alternative for EtherNet/IP to DH+ Bridging
In contrast, while the legacy AN-X platform requires specific firmware configuration files for each network mode, the Automation Networks ANC-100e provides a dedicated, standalone gateway for DH+ to EtherNet/IP communication. As a result, it enables transparent SCADA and HMI bridging for legacy processors without requiring unused Remote I/O drive functions or external configuration utilities.
ANC-100e: Compact Standalone Gateway for DH+ to EtherNet/IP Communications
ANC-100e: DH+ to EtherNet/IP Gateway Converter
Dedicated alternative for DH+ communication. Connects legacy PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 processors to modern EtherNet/IP SCADA and PanelView Plus HMIs.
- • Dedicated DH+ communication gateway
- • Ignition, Kepware & FactoryTalk compatible
- • 30-day evaluation & Lifetime warranty
ANC-120e: USB to Data Highway Plus (DH+) Cable
Field programming cable for PLC-5 & SLC 5/04 via RSLogix 5/500 and RSLinx Classic on Windows 10 & 11.
- • Windows 10 & 11 native driver support
- • Auto Baud & Auto Polarity detection
- • Includes Phoenix & mini-DIN cables
ProSoft AN-X2-AB-DHRIO & AN-X4 vs. ANC-100e Gateway Comparison
| Specification / Feature | Automation Networks ANC-100e | ProSoft AN-X2 / AN-X4 | Rockwell 1756-DHRIO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Network Scope | Dedicated DH+ to EtherNet/IP | Multi-mode (DH+, RIO, Drives) | Chassis bridge (DH+ / RIO) |
| DH+ Auto-Baud & Polarity | ✅ Automatic (57.6k, 115.2k, 230.4k) | ⚠️ Manual web config per mode | ❌ Manual rotary switch configuration |
| Node Address Discovery | ✅ Smart Free Node Auto-Selection | ⚠️ Manual octal entry (0–77) | ❌ Manual software mapping in RSLinx |
| Configuration Method | ✅ Standard Web Browser | Web browser & configuration files | Requires Studio 5000 / RSLinx routing |
| Hardware Requirement | ✅ Standalone Pocket Gateway | Standalone DIN-Rail Module | Requires ControlLogix chassis & power supply |
| Included Connectors & Cables | ✅ 3-Pin Phoenix + 8-Pin Mini-DIN Cable | Phoenix connector only | Front connectors only (No cables included) |
| Lifecycle & Warranty | ✅ Active Production / Lifetime Warranty | AN-X2 Discontinued (Apr 2023) | Legacy hardware platform |
Understanding ProSoft AN-X2-AB-DHRIO & AN-X4-AB-DHRIO Operating Modes
The ProSoft AN-X architecture utilized multiple configuration modes to support phased migrations across legacy Allen-Bradley systems. Below, we provide a detailed technical overview of how these operating modes function:
1. EtherNet/IP to Data Highway Plus (DH+) Bridging Mode
For instance, this mode acts as a bridge between EtherNet/IP and Data Highway Plus networks. Therefore, SCADA systems (Ignition, FactoryTalk View, AVEVA Wonderware) and RSLinx can access legacy PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 processors without modifying ladder logic.
Supported by ANC-100e ($1,195 USD)2. Legacy DH+ PanelView HMI Modernization Mode
Similarly, this mode enables legacy DH+ PanelViews to be upgraded to modern PanelView Plus 6 or PanelView Plus 7 terminals on EtherNet/IP. Consequently, this eliminates controller code modifications.
Supported by ANC-100e ($1,195 USD)3. Allen-Bradley Remote I/O (RIO) Scanner & Adapter Mode
In addition, this configuration was designed to interface ControlLogix/CompactLogix PACs with existing 1771 or 1746 Remote I/O chassis, supporting up to 32 racks of Remote I/O (57.6k, 115.2k, 230.4k baud).
• Multi-rack RIO migration mode4. PowerFlex Drive & 1794 Flex I/O Replacement Mode
Finally, this specialized mode supports upgrading legacy Remote I/O Allen-Bradley drives to PowerFlex drives on EtherNet/IP, or replacing obsolete 1794-ASB adapters with 1794-AENT EtherNet/IP adapters.
• Specialized drive/adapter mode
Active EtherNet/IP to DH+ Gateway Converter Alternatives
Therefore, for applications focused on permanent SCADA/HMI integration or field programming for Allen-Bradley PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 systems, Automation Networks provides active hardware options in stock:
- In particular, the ANC-100e ($1,195 USD) provides a dedicated EtherNet/IP to DH+ gateway bridge for SCADA, PanelView Plus, and DCS integration. See the hands-on video demonstration on The Automation Blog (Show #2).
- Additionally, the ANC-120e ($995 USD) serves as a USB to Data Highway Plus (DH+) programming cable for field laptops running Windows 10 & 11. Detailed setup guide available via The Automation Blog (Show #58).