Product Details

The ProSoft MVI56-DFCMR is a single-slot in-chassis DF1 communication module designed for Rockwell ControlLogix 1756 racks, featuring a reduced data block optimized for remote rack deployment over limited-bandwidth ControlNet networks. It supports DF1 half-duplex and full-duplex serial protocol, and its two independent serial ports can be individually configured as DF1 master or slave to exchange data with legacy Rockwell automation devices including PLC-5, SLC 500, MicroLogix controllers and DF1-compatible HMI terminals. Compared with the standard MVI56-DFCM, this module adopts a smaller I/O data block for backplane transmission, which effectively lowers network load and improves communication stability when the module is installed in remote chassis. The module supports RS232, RS422 and RS485 electrical interfaces, with adjustable baud rate, parity and handshake timing to match the settings of existing DF1 serial networks. Data exchange between the module and ControlLogix processor runs asynchronously, so the DF1 serial communication process will not interfere with the main controller scan cycle. It can collect discrete status, analog values and alarm data from remote DF1 nodes, and also execute write commands from DF1 master hosts for remote control.

This module can be installed in local or remote 1756 ControlLogix chassis and draws 800mA at 5VDC from the backplane. It supports hot-swappable operation for on-site maintenance without shutting down the whole rack. Front LED indicators display backplane communication status, serial transmit, serial receive and module fault status, helping technicians quickly locate communication failures during commissioning and routine inspection. Users can configure port parameters, node address and command list through ProSoft Configuration Builder software, and complete sample ladder logic for Studio 5000 or RSLogix 5000 is provided to simplify tag mapping and program development. It supplies comprehensive diagnostic data including serial error counters, slave response status and real-time register data view. It adopts industrial-grade EMC protection design against surge and electrostatic interference, with an operating temperature range of 0°C to 60°C, suitable for long-term stable operation in pipeline SCADA, water treatment, mining and pulp and paper factories. It supports configuration file backup and firmware upgrade for equipment maintenance.

This DF1 communication module is widely used in legacy Rockwell control system migration, remote rack serial communication, multi-generation Rockwell PLC interconnection and SCADA data acquisition projects. It provides reliable DF1 serial connectivity for remote ControlLogix racks without deploying extra standalone protocol converters, solving the bandwidth pressure problem of standard DF1 modules on ControlNet remote networks. As a discontinued legacy module, the MVI56-DFCMR is mainly supplied as spare replacement parts for running automation systems. It maintains stable bidirectional DF1 serial data transmission, retains the original DF1 field devices and serial wiring, and reduces the transformation cost of old Rockwell system integration.