While preparing a story on another product’s life cycle status, we became aware of the fact that Rockwell had updated the status of their 1797 Flex Ex line to “end of life.”

The Flex Ex line of distributed I/O is based on the popular Flex I/O product line, but it’s also hazardous area rated in North America for Class I Zones 1 and 2, Groups IIC, IIB, and IIA.

While Rockwell has updated the Flex Ex product line with a discontinued date of 12/31/2016, no word on a replacement Allen-Bradley line of intrinsically safe I/O could be found on their website.

So what do you think? Is Rockwell likely to release a new line of intrinsically safe I/O, and if so when would they announce it?

Or is the market for installing I/O in hazardous locations not large enough to warrant a replacement product?

You can share your thoughts with us by using the “post a comment or question” link below.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

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