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Allen-Bradley 1768-L43S Compact GuardLogix Safety CPU

  • Model: 1768-L43S
  • Brand: Allen-Bradley
  • Series: Compact GuardLogix / CompactLogix L4x
  • Core Function: Safety-rated PLC processing
  • Product Type: Safety controller / CPU
  • Key Specs: 2 MB standard memory; 0.5 MB safety memory; 1 RS-232 port
  • Condition: New Surplus
Categories: , , , , SKU: 1768-L43S Brand:

Description

Key Technical Specifications

  • Part Number: 1768-L43S
  • Manufacturer: Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
  • Product Family: Compact GuardLogix controller
  • Module Type: Safety CPU / controller
  • Standard Memory: 2 MB
  • Safety Memory: 0.5 MB
  • Local Programming Port: 1 RS-232
  • Embedded Network Port: None
  • Backplane Current Draw @ 24 V DC: 1.4 A
  • 1768 Current Draw @ 5 V DC: 2.8 A
  • Total 1768 and 1769 Current Draw @ 5 V DC: 4.8 A
  • Power Consumption: 33.6 W
  • Power Dissipation: 7.5 W
  • Slot Width: 1.5
  • Maximum 1769 I/O Modules: 16
  • Maximum 1768 Modules: 2
  • Maximum 1768 Motion Modules: 2
  • Power Supply: 1768-PA3, 1768-PB3
  • Operating Temperature: 0-60 °C
  • Isolation Voltage: 30 V continuous, functional insulation
  • Communication Medium: RS-232, fully isolated, 38.4 Kbps max

 

Product Introduction

The Allen-Bradley 1768-L43S is a Compact GuardLogix safety controller used for machine control where standard logic and safety logic run in the same processor family. It combines 2 MB of standard memory with 0.5 MB of safety memory and supports CompactLogix expansion.

It is used in applications that need safety-rated control without moving to a larger platform. The RS-232 programming port, CompactLogix expansion support, and GuardLogix safety task structure make it a practical CPU choice for compact safety systems.

1768-L43S

1768-L43S

1768-L43S

1768-L43S

1768-L43S

1768-L43S

Troubleshooting Quick Reference

Symptom Possible Cause Relevance to this Part Quick Check Method Recommendation
No power-up LEDs Missing supply, base issue, or failed controller ✅ High Measure chassis supply and inspect the controller seating Verify power and base hardware first
Safety task will not go RUN Safety signature mismatch or invalid safety program ✅ High Check the safety diagnostics in RSLogix/Studio 5000 Re-verify the safety project before swapping hardware
RS-232 programming port does not connect Wrong cable, baud rate, or serial settings ✅ High Confirm the cable type and serial parameters Check the port settings before assuming a CPU fault
Controller faults during startup Corrupt program, memory issue, or incompatible module mix ✅ High Read the fault code and compare installed modules Back up the project and isolate configuration issues
I/O does not respond Expansion module problem, wiring issue, or logic interlock ⚠️ Medium Check input/output status bits and expansion bus health Verify field wiring and module seating first
Excessive heat in cabinet Poor ventilation or overcurrent on backplane ⚠️ Medium Measure cabinet temperature and current draw Improve cooling and check load budget
Safety outputs drop unexpectedly Safety circuit fault, safety input discrepancy, or invalid reset logic ✅ High Review the safety fault history and input state Do not bypass safety logic; correct the root cause

If you are stuck, send support photos of the LED status, controller fault screen, and cabinet layout.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the 1768-L43S a safety controller?
A: Yes. It is a Compact GuardLogix safety processor, so it handles both standard control and safety tasks in the same platform.

Q: Does it have Ethernet built in?
A: No. This model has no embedded network port. If your design needs Ethernet, you use the supported communication modules or a different controller variant.

Q: How much memory does it have?
A: It provides 2 MB of standard memory and 0.5 MB of safety memory. That is enough for many compact safety machine applications, but you should still check your program size before buying.

Q: Can I use it with 1769 I/O modules?
A: Yes, it supports up to 16 1769 I/O modules and up to 2 1768 modules. That is one of the reasons it fits compact GuardLogix systems.

Q: Is this model obsolete?
A: It is a legacy platform, so a lot of market stock is surplus rather than current production. That does not make it unusable, but it does mean you should verify series and firmware compatibility carefully.

Q: What should I check before replacing one?
A: Check the exact controller revision, safety project signature, power supply model, and connected expansion modules. For a safety CPU, that matters more than almost anything else.

Q: Why is it often sold as New Surplus?
A: Because it is older inventory that was never installed or was left over from a project. New Surplus stock is common for industrial safety processors that are no longer a current production buy.