
Allen-Bradley 1771-HD Handheld Teach Pendant for PLC-5
Product Summary
The Allen-Bradley 1771-HD handheld teach pendant gives you direct remote control over PLC-5 motion systems. It uses the Offline Development System (ODS) to adjust variables and parameters. With a 25‑foot cable and intuitive hard/soft keys, this device simplifies field programming and troubleshooting.
How to Set Up the 1771-HD Handheld Teach Pendant
Connect the Pendant to Your System
Plug the 1771-CAD cable into the 9‑pin RS‑232 port on your IMC 120 motion controller. The pendant’s cable extends 25 feet (8 m), so you can walk freely around the machine. Attach the 1771-CAS connector cable to a power source rated at 120 V AC or 240 V AC. The pendant powers on instantly.
Navigate the Display and Keys
The 1771-HD shows a 4‑line by 16‑character display. Hard keys perform fixed functions like starting a jog. Soft keys change their role based on the active menu. Use these keys to select one of five menu displays: Jogs, Status, Debug, File Manager, and Teach Position. Each menu gives you targeted control over system variables.
Use the Teach Position Function

Press the Teach Position menu to capture axis positions. The pendant records a pulse capture time between 50 and 9,999 microseconds. This feature lets you program precise motion sequences without a PC. The pendant communicates with the servo controller module through the RS‑232 port.
Run the Diagnostic Test
Flip the switch and press the button on the 1771-HD to start a diagnostic test. The display shows error messages from the IMC 120 system. This quick check confirms the pendant’s hardware is fully operational.
Maintain Optimal Environmental Conditions
Operate the pendant in temperatures from 0 to 60 °C. Keep relative humidity between 5% and 95% non‑condensing. These conditions ensure reliable performance on the factory floor.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 1771-HD

Can I use the 1771-HD with a PLC-5 system?
Yes. The Allen-Bradley 1771-HD is specifically designed for PLC-5 controllers. It modifies system variables and parameter values via the Offline Development System (ODS). Connect the pendant to the motion controller’s RS‑232 port.
What do the soft keys on the 1771-HD do?
Soft keys change function depending on the display menu. When you view the Jogs menu, soft keys control jog speed. In Teach Position mode, they set capture parameters. Hard keys always perform the same action.
How long is the 1771-HD cable?
The pendant comes with a 25‑foot (8 m) cable. You can move freely around the machine while programming. Use the 1771-CAD cable to connect to the 9‑pin D‑shell connector on the controller.
Does the 1771-HD support diagnostics?

Yes. The pendant includes a dedicated diagnostic mode. Use the switch and button on the unit to run a test. The display then shows any error messages from the IMC 120 system.
What is the update period for the 1771-HD?
The pendant updates each axis every 2 milliseconds. This fast update rate ensures responsive control during teach operations. The module uses a backplane current of 1.7 amperes.