Allen-Bradley 1784-PKTX Network Interface Card

The Allen-Bradley 1784-PKTX PKTx Network Interface Card is a PCI-bus, single-channel NIC that lets a PC communicate directly with Allen-Bradley DH+ (Data Highway Plus) and DH-485 networks used by PLC-5 and SLC controllers. As part of the PKTx family, the card provides one independent data channel that supports DH+ traffic, RIO scanning, and DH-485 messaging, enabling programming, data collection, and remote I/O access over legacy AB networks. The PCI interface installs in a standard PCI slot and connects to a DH+ network via an AB‑approved cable, with documentation noting use of cables such as the 1770-CD or equivalent for DH+ connectivity. This card is commonly employed to facilitate PC-based access to PLC-5 or SLC 5/04 I/O and control logic, using Rockwell software tools like RSLinx for configuration and data exchange. The 1784-PKTX is a legacy Allen-Bradley PCI communications card designed to bridge contemporary PCs with established DH+ and DH-485 networks, delivering a straightforward means to program, monitor, and retrieve data from aging PLC networks without a dedicated DH-485 gateway.