AN-X4-AB-DHRIO vs ANC-100e: Price, Specs and a DH+ to Ethernet Alternative
The AN-X4-AB-DHRIO from ProSoft is a multi-mode EtherNet/IP gateway. If you are searching for it, you probably need to connect Allen-Bradley PLC-5 or SLC 5/04 processors on a Data Highway Plus (DH+) network to Ethernet. It is a capable product; however, reseller listings typically range from $3,400 to $4,000 USD. If you need a simpler, lower-cost AN-X4-AB-DHRIO alternative, the ANC-100e was built for exactly that.
In contrast, the ANC-100e is a dedicated DH+ to Ethernet adapter built for one job: connecting your PC, RSLinx, HMI or SCADA to legacy DH+ processors quickly, for $1,195 USD, shipping from stock in the USA.
AN-X4-AB-DHRIO at a glance
- What it is: ProSoft multi-mode EtherNet/IP gateway for DH+ and Remote I/O
- Modes: DH+ bridging, Remote I/O scanner/adapter, HMI, Modbus TCP
- Connects to: PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 on DH+, Remote I/O racks
- Price: reseller listings ~$3,400–$4,000 USD (Nov 2026)
- DH+ to Ethernet alternative: ANC-100e, $1,195, in stock and ready to ship
Why Choose the ANC-100e as an AN-X4-AB-DHRIO Alternative
In short, if your goal is to reach PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 processors on DH+ from Ethernet, the ANC-100e covers it at about a third of the cost:
- Works with free RSLinx Classic: use the “Ethernet devices” or “Remote Devices via Linx Gateway” drivers. As a result, no paid RSLinx license is needed.
- HMI & SCADA ready: the built-in HMI feature maps DH+ nodes to IP addresses for PanelView, FactoryTalk View, Ignition, Kepware and more.
- Auto-detection: DH+ node, baud rate (57.6/115.2/230.4K) and cable polarity are detected automatically.
- Wide temperature range: −40 to +85 °C operation, so it also suits harsh plant environments.
- Compact & low power: 9–24 VDC, under 1 W, desktop or DIN-rail mounting.
- No chassis needed: standalone unit, so there is no ControlLogix rack or 1756-DHRIO module to buy.
Technical Comparison: ANC-100e vs. ProSoft AN-X4-AB-DHRIO
Specifically, here are the technical capabilities, pricing and setup side by side.
| Specification | ANC-100e Gateway | ProSoft AN-X4-AB-DHRIO |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Dedicated DH+ to Ethernet adapter | Multi-mode gateway (DH+, Remote I/O) |
| DH+ speeds | 57.6 / 115.2 / 230.4 Kbps | 57.6 / 115.2 / 230.4 Kbps |
| Remote I/O scanner / adapter | — | Yes |
| Free RSLinx Classic | ✅ Yes (“Ethernet devices” or “Remote Devices via Linx Gateway”) | Yes (downloads to PLC-5 / SLC) |
| HMI / PanelView access | ✅ Yes, one IP address per DH+ node | Yes (PanelView upgrade mode) |
| Node, baud rate & polarity | ✅ Auto-detected | Set during configuration |
| Configuration | Built-in web interface | Built-in web server |
| Power | ✅ 9–24 VDC, 0.9 W typical | 12/24 VDC, 2.9 W max |
| Operating temperature | ✅ −40 to +85 °C | 0 to 50 °C |
| Mounting / size | Desktop or DIN rail, 86 × 57 × 27 mm | DIN rail, 107 × 98 × 34 mm |
| Price | ✅ $1,195 USD, direct from the manufacturer | Quote (reseller listings ~$3,400–$4,000 USD, Nov 2026) |
When the AN-X4-AB-DHRIO Is the Better Choice
Above all, we would rather you get the right tool for your application. Therefore, the AN-X4-AB-DHRIO is the better fit if you need:
- Remote I/O scanner or adapter functions
- Modbus TCP or bridge mode between multiple units
- UL Class 1 Div 2 certification for hazardous locations
When the ANC-100e Is the Better Choice
- PC, RSLinx, HMI or SCADA access to PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 processors on DH+
- Projects where budget matters
- Environments with extreme temperatures
- Fast setup with auto-detection and no chassis
Finally, for step-by-step setup with your software, see the ANC-100e user guide and the application notes on the ANC-100e product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ANC-100e a drop-in replacement for the AN-X4-AB-DHRIO?
For DH+ communication with PCs, HMIs and SCADA, yes. However, for Remote I/O applications, no.
Do I need a ControlLogix chassis?
No. Instead, the ANC-100e is a standalone unit.
Does it work with the free RSLinx Classic?
Yes, using the “Ethernet devices” or “Remote Devices via Linx Gateway” drivers.
Do you offer volume pricing?
Yes. Contact us with the quantity you need and we will send you a quote.
DIN-rail gateway for permanent SCADA, HMI, and PanelView Plus integration to legacy DH+ PLCs.
- • Standalone DH+ gateway architecture
- • Ignition, Kepware & FactoryTalk compatible
- • Lifetime Warranty & 30-day money-back satisfaction guarantee
Field-proven 1784-U2DHP alternative. Connect your laptop to PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 controllers via USB on Windows 10 & 11.
- • Windows 10 & 11 (64-bit) native support
- • Cost-effective 1784-U2DHP alternative
- • Auto Baud & Auto Polarity detection
Why pay $3,400+ for a DH+ to Ethernet gateway when the ANC-100e connects your PLC-5 and SLC 5/04 to Ethernet for $1,195 USD? In addition, it ships direct from the manufacturer in the USA.