Reliance Electric SHARK-45C946 Shark XL 24VDC 16-Point Input Module
June 08, 2026

Reliance Electric SHARK-45C946 Shark XL 24VDC 16-Point Input Module

The SHARK-45C946 (also known as 45C946) is a high-density DC input module manufactured by Reliance Electric (now part of ABB/Baldor) for the Shark XL series programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial control systems. Designed for discrete signal acquisition in factory automation, it provides 16 channels of 24VDC digital input to interface with sensors, switches, relays, and other field devices. As a core component of the Shark XL control platform, it delivers reliable signal conversion, electrical isolation, and noise immunity for real-time monitoring and control in harsh industrial environments.

Description

Reliance Electric SHARK-45C946 Shark XL 24VDC 16-Point Input Module

Overview

The SHARK-45C946 (also known as 45C946) is a high-density DC input module manufactured by Reliance Electric (now part of ABB/Baldor) for the Shark XL series programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and industrial control systems. Designed for discrete signal acquisition in factory automation, it provides 16 channels of 24VDC digital input to interface with sensors, switches, relays, and other field devices. As a core component of the Shark XL control platform, it delivers reliable signal conversion, electrical isolation, and noise immunity for real-time monitoring and control in harsh industrial environments.

Key Features

  • 16 Isolated Input Channels: Offers 16 independent 24VDC digital input points with channel-to-channel isolation, preventing cross-talk and ensuring signal integrity in electrically noisy environments.

  • 24VDC Nominal Operation: Accepts standard 24VDC logic signals (positive or negative common) from proximity sensors, limit switches, pushbuttons, and other low-voltage field devices.

  • High-Speed Signal Response: Features fast-acting optocoupler isolation circuits with microsecond-level response time, supporting high-frequency discrete signal monitoring and event capture.

  • LED Status Indicators: Equipped with individual channel status LEDs (ON/OFF) for immediate visual diagnosis of input signal presence, simplifying on-site troubleshooting and maintenance.

  • Rugged Industrial Construction: Built with a heavy-duty plastic housing and conformal-coated PCB to resist dust, moisture, vibration, and temperature fluctuations in manufacturing and process control applications.

  • Hot-Swappable Design: Supports module replacement without powering down the entire Shark XL system, minimizing unplanned downtime during maintenance or upgrades.

  • Seamless Shark XL Compatibility: Directly compatible with all Shark XL series PLC racks, backplanes, and programming software, enabling drop-in installation and configuration without system modifications.

Technical Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Reliance Electric (ABB/Baldor)

  • Model: SHARK-45C946 (45C946)

  • Product Series: Shark XL (SHARK X, SHARK XLII compatible)

  • Module Type: Discrete Input Module

  • Number of Channels: 16 (isolated)

  • Input Voltage: 24VDC nominal (18–30VDC operating range)

  • Input Logic: Sink/source selectable (positive/negative common)

  • Input Current: 10mA per channel (typical at 24VDC)

  • Isolation Voltage: 500VAC between channels and backplane

  • Response Time: ≤10μs (ON/OFF)

  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C

  • Storage Temperature: -20°C to +70°C

  • Relative Humidity: 95% non-condensing

  • Mounting: Standard Shark XL rack mounting

  • Status: OEM discontinued; available as new old stock (NOS) or refurbished units

  • Warranty: 12 months (typical for new/refurbished units)

Applications

  • Factory Automation: Discrete signal monitoring in assembly lines, material handling systems, and packaging machinery.

  • Process Control: Input interface for sensors and switches in chemical, food and beverage, and water treatment plants.

  • Legacy System Retrofits: Replacement for aging input modules in existing Reliance Electric Shark XL PLC installations, extending system lifespan.

  • Conveyor Systems: Monitoring of limit switches, photoeyes, and emergency stop buttons in bulk material handling conveyors.

  • Machine Tools: Signal acquisition for proximity sensors, tool limit switches, and safety interlocks in CNC and metalworking equipment.

Compatibility & Availability

The SHARK-45C946 is fully compatible with the entire Shark XL product family, including Shark X, Shark XLII, and associated backplanes, power supplies, and CPU modules. It integrates seamlessly with Reliance Electric’s programming software for configuration, monitoring, and diagnostics. Original OEM production has been discontinued, with inventory limited to new old stock (NOS) and professionally refurbished units. Refurbished modules undergo full component testing, cleaning, and calibration to factory specifications, ensuring reliable performance. Reputable suppliers typically offer a 12-month warranty on both new and refurbished SHARK-45C946 modules.

Advantages

  • Cost-Effective Maintenance: Provides a direct, reliable replacement for a common failure point in legacy Shark XL systems, avoiding expensive full PLC replacements.

  • High-Density Signal Acquisition: 16 channels in a compact form factor reduce rack space requirements and system wiring complexity.

  • Simplified Troubleshooting: Individual channel LEDs enable quick identification of faulty signals or wiring, reducing maintenance time.

  • Robust Reliability: Industrial-grade isolation and conformal coating ensure long-term performance in harsh, vibration-prone environments.

  • Flexible Logic Compatibility: Sink/source selectable inputs support a wide range of 24VDC field devices, enhancing application flexibility.


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