Allen-Bradley 2711P-RN3 PanelView Plus Series Communication Module

The Allen-Bradley 2711P-RN3, also cataloged as the 2711P-RN3 Communication Module, operates as a dedicated hardware component for DH-485 network communication within PanelView Plus 400-600 platforms.

Hardware Specifications

Profinet / EtherNet/IP Deterministic Networks and Base Integration

The Allen-Bradley 2711P-RN3 bridges legacy serial architectures into larger control topologies that utilize Profinet / EtherNet/IP deterministic networks at the supervisory tier. When docked to a PanelView Plus 400 or 600 operator interface, this module establishes point-to-point or multi-drop DH-485 physical layer communication with legacy programmable logic controllers (PLCs). The system maintains deterministic data packet intervals across the local serial link, mapping controller registers directly to the terminal tag database. This localized network integration prevents latency propagation into the primary Ethernet plant backbone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the 2711P-RN3 communication module support hot-swap insertion while the host terminal is energized?

A: No. The module must be mechanically secured to the communication port of the PanelView Plus 400 or 600 terminal while the host system power supply is completely de-energized. Hot-swapping will cause firmware identification faults or permanent physical damage to the backplane interface pins.

Q: What are the limits regarding the maximum physical network distance for this hardware extension?

A: The physical DH-485 media layer driven by this module supports a maximum cumulative cable length of 30 m. Exceeding this physical boundary without an active isolated repeater will cause signal attenuation, packet loss, and localized timing timeouts.

Field Installation Guidelines

• Mechanical Coupling: Align the backplane connector pins on the module precisely with the expansion slot located on the rear of the PanelView Plus terminal. Secure all physical retention screws to ensure uninterrupted electrical contact and grounding continuity.
• Shielding and Grounding: All DH-485 communication cables must be properly shielded. Drain wires must be terminated to a low-impedance industrial earth ground at a single node to suppress common-mode electromagnetic interference (EMI).
• Conductor Routing: Route serial communication lines through dedicated low-voltage wiring trays. Maintain a minimum physical clearance from high-current motor drive cables, AC power distribution buses, and inductive switching components.
• Environmental Sealing: Ensure the host industrial enclosure provides adequate ingress protection to maintain ambient operating limits between 0 deg C and 55 deg C, preventing internal moisture condensation on the exposed PCB traces.