Description
Product Introduction & Engineering Value
The Allen-Bradley 1784-CF128 is a dedicated 128 MB Industrial CompactFlash card used for user-program and data storage in compatible ControlLogix systems. It provides nonvolatile memory, allowing controller information to be retained independently of normal controller power.
This part is particularly relevant when maintaining legacy ControlLogix 5560 installations. Rockwell specifically identifies the 1784-CF128 and 1784-CF64 as CompactFlash options for ControlLogix 5560 controllers. It should not be treated as a generic commercial CompactFlash replacement simply because the physical form factor looks similar.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | 1784-CF128 |
|---|---|
| Card type | Industrial CompactFlash |
| Storage capacity | 128 MB |
| Memory | Nonvolatile |
| Primary function | User program and data storage |
| Parent controller | ControlLogix 5560 |
| Compatible card family | 1784-CF64 / 1784-CF128 |
| Operating temperature | 0 to 60 °C (32 to 140 °F) |
| Storage temperature | -40 to 85 °C (-40 to 185 °F) |
| Relative humidity | 5–95%, noncondensing |
| Approximate weight | 14.2 g (0.5 oz) |
| Operating vibration | 2 g @ 10–500 Hz |
| Operating shock | 30 g |
| Nonoperating shock | 50 g |
Rockwell’s installation documentation specifies 128 MB user-available memory, nonvolatile storage, approximately 14.2 g weight, and the listed environmental ratings for the Industrial CompactFlash family.
Controller Compatibility
Rockwell’s memory-card documentation specifically associates:
- 1784-CF64 — 64 MB
- 1784-CF128 — 128 MB
with ControlLogix 5560 controllers. The documentation identifies RSLogix 5000 version 11 or later for these CompactFlash cards.
That compatibility distinction matters. A 1784-CF128 is not simply a 128 MB consumer CompactFlash card with an Allen-Bradley label.
Field Application & The “Trench” Experience
A legacy ControlLogix 5560 system is scheduled for controller maintenance. The machine has been running for years, and the engineering team relies on the CompactFlash card as part of its controller backup and data-retention strategy.
During the shutdown, the technician discovers that the installed card is a 1784-CF128. Instead of replacing it with a generic CF card from inventory, the technician verifies the exact catalog number and preserves the existing card contents before proceeding. The replacement card is then prepared using the appropriate Logix controller procedures.
The important point is easy to miss: the card is part of the controller’s data-management architecture, not merely removable storage.
Specific application scenarios
- ControlLogix 5560 controller program storage in legacy production machinery.
- Nonvolatile project backup for long-running manufacturing cells.
- Controller data-file storage where the application uses CompactFlash-supported file operations.
- Emergency maintenance spares for older ControlLogix installations where the original memory-card architecture must be maintained.
1784-CF128
Transparency SOP: QA & Testing
For New Surplus or Refurbished 1784-CF128 inventory, testing should focus heavily on identity and memory integrity.
1. Catalog verification
Confirm the label reads 1784-CF128 and verify the 128 MB capacity.
2. Physical inspection
Inspect the CompactFlash housing, connector contacts, label, and card surface for mechanical damage or contamination.
3. Controller compatibility check
Verify that the intended application uses a compatible ControlLogix controller and supported memory-card architecture.
4. Read/write verification
Where appropriate test equipment is available, install the card in a compatible controller and verify that the controller can recognize and access the card.
5. Data-transfer test
Perform a controlled project/data storage operation using an approved Rockwell procedure.
6. Final QA record
Document catalog number, capacity, physical condition, test status, and warranty condition.
Rockwell currently lists a one-year standard warranty for the 1784-CF128.
The Veteran’s Tech Trap Guide
⚠️ Trap #1 — Treating the 1784-CF128 as generic CompactFlash.
Rockwell recommends Allen-Bradley memory cards for Logix 5000 applications. The controller and firmware/software combination determine how the card is formatted and used.
⚠️ Trap #2 — Forgetting the project revision.
Rockwell documentation notes different CompactFlash file-system behavior depending on the Logix project revision. For example, revision 11.x uses a special format, while revision 12.0 uses FAT16. Do not casually format an existing card before determining what the controller expects.
⚠️ Trap #3 — Assuming the card contains a complete system backup.
Whether the CompactFlash contains a usable controller project, data files, or other information depends on how the card was configured and what was actually stored on it. Physical possession of a 1784-CF128 does not guarantee that the required application is present.
PRO TIP: Before replacing a working card, make a controlled copy of its contents and document the controller model, firmware revision, project revision, and card contents. Do not format the original card simply to “test” it.
Dynamic FAQ
What is the Allen-Bradley 1784-CF128?
The 1784-CF128 is a 128 MB Industrial CompactFlash memory card designed for compatible Allen-Bradley ControlLogix systems. Rockwell identifies it for use with ControlLogix 5560 controllers.
How much storage does the 1784-CF128 provide?
It provides 128 MB of storage. Rockwell specifies the memory as nonvolatile and identifies the card’s functions as user-program and data storage.
Which ControlLogix controller is the 1784-CF128 designed for?
Rockwell’s current product page identifies the ControlLogix 5560 as the parent controller family.
Can I use a generic 128 MB CompactFlash card instead?
For a production ControlLogix application, that should not be assumed. Rockwell’s documentation specifically identifies the Allen-Bradley 1784-CF64 and 1784-CF128 cards for the applicable ControlLogix 5560 architecture.
Can the 1784-CF128 store a Logix controller project?
Yes. The CompactFlash architecture supports storage of controller information, including projects, depending on controller and firmware/software revision. Rockwell documents project-storage procedures and different file-system behavior across revisions.
How do I verify New Surplus authenticity?
Check the 1784-CF128 catalog number, Allen-Bradley labeling, capacity, physical condition, and packaging. For a used or surplus card, the more important functional test is whether a compatible ControlLogix controller recognizes the card and can perform the intended read/write operation.
What warranty applies?
Rockwell Automation currently lists a one-year standard warranty for the 1784-CF128. For independent New Surplus or Refurbished inventory, verify the supplier’s specific warranty terms before purchase.
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