Allen‑Bradley 1785‑ME64_A – 64K Nonvolatile Memory Module for PLC‑5 Controllers

The Allen‑Bradley 1785‑ME64_A is a 64K‑word nonvolatile memory module for PLC‑5 controllers. From my experience, plants keep this cartridge as insurance: it backs up the user program and data, supports auto‑load at power‑up, and lets you recover a PLC‑5 quickly after a CPU swap or a cleared RAM. You might notice it fits in the controller’s front memory slot and, in many cases, includes a simple write‑protect feature—handy for change control on validated systems.

Company’s Order Placement Process and Guarantees

• Warranty period: 365 days
• Delivery time: 1 week for in‑stock; no more than one month at the latest
• Payment method: 50% advance payment, full payment for delivery
• Express delivery methods: FedEx, UPS, DHL
• Pre‑shipment checks: visual/label verification, basic read/write test where applicable; ESD‑safe, shock‑resistant packing

Key Features

• 64K‑word nonvolatile storage – Backs up the PLC‑5 user program, data tables, and configuration for fast recovery.
• Auto‑load support – On many PLC‑5 builds you can auto‑restore the project at power‑up, which typically shortens restart time.
• Write‑protect option – A simple hardware protect (where present) helps lock approved code during validated operation.
• Tool‑less install – Plugs into the controller’s front memory slot; no cabinet rewiring or external power.
• Brownfield friendly – Ideal for PLC‑5 systems where a predictable backup/restore process matters more than new features.

Technical Specifications

Application Fields

I typically see 1785‑ME64 modules used where PLC‑5 uptime and change control are front and center:

• Power & utilities – quick controller recovery during planned maintenance.
• Water & wastewater – “known good” autoload after a CPU or battery issue.
• Chemicals & refining – locked program copies for validated batches and audits.
• Material handling – fast return to service after a PLC‑5 chassis swap.

A maintenance tech told me, “We enabled autoload, cycled the PLC‑5, and it came back with the exact logic and data—no laptop needed.” That seems to be the typical experience when the cartridge matches the controller series and the write‑protect is set sensibly.

Advantages & Value

• Reliability – Nonvolatile backup that survives power loss and battery issues.
• Compatibility – Designed for PLC‑5; minimizes engineering effort on brownfield systems.
• Cost control – Reduces downtime and service hours by enabling fast autoload/startup.
• Maintainability – Simple write‑protect workflow supports audit and change‑management practices.
• Spares strategy – One pre‑imaged ME64 per critical PLC‑5 rack is, in most cases, cheap insurance.

Installation & Maintenance

• ESD & handling: Use a grounded wrist strap; handle by edges; avoid touching contacts.
• Backup procedure: With the controller in PROG, execute a Store‑to‑Memory (per Rockwell manual) and label the cartridge with date/revision.
• Auto‑load: Enable the controller’s memory module autoload (where supported); test during a planned stop.
• Write‑protect: Set/clear the hardware protect (if provided) according to your MOC policy.
• Routine care: Periodic verify/refresh of the memory image and a quick continuity clean of the edge contacts.

Quality & Certifications

• Manufactured under Rockwell Automation quality systems (ISO 9001 aligned).
• CE/UL/cUL applicability handled at the system level; this is a controller accessory.
• RoHS status depends on series/lot; confirmable by part/serial if required.
• Warranty: 365 days repair/replace coverage from delivery.