1769-OW16 Compact I/O 16-Point AC DC Relay Output Module

The 1769-OW16 is a 16-point relay output module designed for industrial control systems requiring flexible switching of AC and DC loads.

Unlike transistor output modules that are limited to specific DC switching applications, this relay-based module provides electrical contact switching capability, allowing connection to a wider range of field devices including AC loads, DC loads, relays, contactors and solenoid devices.

The module provides 16 normally open relay outputs arranged in two isolated groups of eight points. This grouped isolation structure allows engineers to separate different load power domains within the same module.

With support for 5 to 265V AC and 5 to 125V DC loads, the 1769-OW16 is suitable for machines requiring flexible voltage switching rather than high-speed transistor output.

Key Features

• 16 relay output channels
• AC and DC load switching capability
• 5-265V AC voltage range
• 5-125V DC voltage range
• 2.5A relay contact rating per point
• Two isolated output groups
• Normally open relay contacts
• Suitable for mixed voltage applications

Typical Applications

• Motor contactor control
• Solenoid valve switching
• Heater control circuits
• AC equipment switching
• Machine retrofit projects

Relay Output Advantage

The key difference of 1769-OW16 is its electromechanical relay output design.

Compared with transistor output modules:

Relay Output:

• Supports AC and DC loads
• Provides physical contact switching
• No transistor leakage current when OFF
• Suitable for various voltage levels

Transistor Output:

• Faster switching speed
• Mainly used for DC loads
• Requires compatible polarity

The 1769-OW16 is optimized for flexible load switching rather than high-frequency switching.

AC/DC Mixed Load Capability

The module supports a wide range of field devices:

AC Loads:

• Contactors
• Solenoid valves
• Relays
• Small motors

DC Loads:

• DC relays
• DC solenoids
• Control circuits

The connected load voltage and current must remain within relay contact specifications.

Two Isolated Output Groups

The 16 outputs are arranged as:

Group 1:

8 Relay Outputs

Group 2:

8 Relay Outputs

This allows different power sources or load groups to be separated within one module.

It is useful when one machine contains both:

• Different voltage circuits
• Separate actuator groups
• Multiple power domains

16 Relay Output Channels

The module provides 16 normally open relay contacts.

Each channel can independently control:

• Contactors
• Indicator circuits
• Valves
• External relays
• AC/DC loads

Because each output is relay-based, the module is suitable for applications where electrical compatibility is more important than switching speed.

1769-OW16 vs 1769-OB16

1769-OW16

Relay output

AC/DC load compatible

2.5A contact rating

Flexible voltage switching

1769-OB16

Transistor output

24V DC sourcing output

Faster switching

Requires DC polarity matching

The two modules serve different load-control requirements.

1769-OW16 vs 1769-OV16

1769-OW16

Relay output

AC/DC switching

No polarity limitation like transistor outputs

1769-OV16

24V DC sinking transistor output

Designed for compatible DC field devices

The correct selection depends on load type and wiring method.

1769-OW16 vs 1769-OW8I

1769-OW16

16 relay outputs

Two groups of 8 points

1769-OW8I

8 individually isolated relay outputs

OW8I provides individual channel isolation, while OW16 provides higher point density.

Relay Contact Protection

When controlling inductive loads:

• Install appropriate suppression devices
• Consider contact arcing
• Check switching frequency
• Verify load current

Relay outputs are not recommended for extremely high-speed switching applications.

Application Selection Guide

Choose 1769-OW16 when:

• AC and DC loads are required
• Different voltage levels exist
• Relay contact switching is preferred
• Switching frequency is moderate

Choose transistor output modules when:

• Fast switching is required
• High-frequency pulse operation is needed
• Only DC loads are used

Installation Notes

• Disconnect power before wiring
• Verify AC/DC load voltage
• Check relay current rating
• Separate power and control wiring
• Install suppression for inductive loads
• Confirm output grouping requirements
• Test each relay channel before operation

FAQ

Q1: What type of output does 1769-OW16 use?

A1: It uses electromechanical relay outputs.

Q2: How many outputs are available?

A2: It provides 16 relay output channels.

Q3: Can it control AC loads?

A3: Yes. It supports AC load switching up to the specified voltage range.

Q4: Can it control DC loads?

A4: Yes. It supports DC relay contact switching.

Q5: What is the maximum current per output?

A5: Each relay output supports up to 2.5A depending on load conditions.

Q6: Is it the same as 1769-OB16?

A6: No. OB16 is a transistor DC output module, while OW16 uses relay contacts.

Q7: Does it provide isolated outputs?

A7: It provides two isolated output groups, each containing eight points.

Q8: Is it suitable for high-speed switching?

A8: No. Relay modules are designed for flexible load switching rather than high-frequency switching.