Data Sheet for Product

Notes on System Architecture
The Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver provides communication
between the APOGEE
®
Automation System and
Allen-Bradley programmable controllers.
The Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver communicates via the DF1
protocol. Integration of PLC-5 controllers requires an
Allen-Bradley protocol translator device to convert DF1 to
DH+ (Data Highway plus) protocol. SLC 5/04 controllers
can also be integrated to the APOGEE Automation
System via a DF1 to DH+ translator device; however,
most SLC-5, CompactLogix, and ControlLogix controllers
accept direct DF1 communication to the channel 0
programming port.
A maximum of one PLC, SLC, CompactLogix, or
ControlLogix controller can be accessed with one
driver when using direct DF1 communication to the
programming port.
A maximum of 32 PLCs or SLCs can be accessed with
one driver when using DH+ communication via a 1770
KF2 module or 1785 KE card.
Functionality
The Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver can be loaded into
MBC Open Processor and MEC hardware. The driver
is a microprocessor-based, multitasking platform
designed for multi-system communication and control. It
communicates with Insight
®
software, other APOGEE
field panels and controllers, and the Allen-Bradley
system.
Through the Insight workstation, the Allen-Bradley points
can be monitored and commanded. The Allen-Bradley
points integrated into the APOGEE Automation System
can be accessed by system applications such as Powers
Process Control Language, scheduling, trending, and
alarming.
The Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver will not affect, in any
way, the operating sequence or safeties as factory
programmed into the Allen-Bradley system.
Keys to Success
Ensure that all Allen-Bradley equipment to be integrated
is supported by the Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver.
Benefits
Systems integration brings the powerful facility control
capabilities of the APOGEE Automation System
together with the Allen-Bradley system. Integrating the
Allen-Bradley points allows both systems to operate as
a single system providing marked advantages in the
following:
• Reduced operating and training costs.
• Increased employee productivity.
• Increased diagnostic capabilities to extend
equipment life.
• Improved systems information and control.
Products Supported
Allen-Bradley models supported by the Allen-Bradley
DF1 Driver include:
• PLC-5 using DH+ communication via a 1770 KF2
module or 1785 KE card
• SLC-5/04 using DH+ communication via a 1770
KF2 module
• SLC 5/03, SLC 5/04, and SLC 5/05 using direct
DF1 communication to the programming port
• CompactLogix or ControlLogix PLCs using using
direct DF1 communication to the programming port
Only one family of programmable controllers (either
PLC, SLC, CompactLogix, or ControlLogix) can be
connected to the Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver at one time.
Allen-Bradley DF1 Driver does not support combinations
of PLC, SLC, CompactLogix, or ControlLogix controllers
on the same network.
If there are any questions regarding the Allen-Bradley
system, contact your local Allen-Bradley representative.
Page 4 of 6 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
Document No. 127-0793