5.5″ monochrome PanelView 550 operator terminal combining touch screen and membrane keypad for reliable industrial HMI control.
Product Overview
The 2711‑B5A9/B5‑A14 is an Allen‑Bradley PanelView 550-class HMI designed for rugged industrial environments. It features a 5.5‑inch monochrome LCD with blue pixel graphics and dual input: a touch‑sensitive overlay and tactile domed-membrane keypad. Available in both AC-powered (B5A9) and 24 V DC-powered (B5A14) variants, it supports RS‑232 (DH‑485) or Remote I/O plus RS‑232 printer communications. Compact yet functional, it’s backward-compatible with PanelBuilder 32 applications and supports key customization via legend strips and anti‑glare overlays .
How to Use
- Mounting – Install in a 144×243 mm cutout with ~38 mm clearance for airflow .
- Power – B5A9 runs on 100–240 VAC; B5A14 requires 24 V DC .
- Communication – Connect via RS‑232 DH‑485 for PLC or use printer port. B5A14 may also support Remote I/O .
- Software – Develop or modify screens with PanelBuilder 32.
- Input – Navigate screens using touch; perform precise functions via 10 programmable keys. Use legend overlays for custom functions.
- Maintenance – Replace backlight, legends, or anti‑glare films as needed. Ensure ventilation clearances are maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What’s the difference between B5A9 and B5A14?
B5A9 uses 100–240 VAC; B5A14 runs on 24 V DC and supports Remote I/O plus printer. - Is the touch screen capacitive?
No—it’s resistive, designed for industrial gloves and stylus input. - What screen resolution?
256×128 pixels on a 5.5″ monochrome LCD. - What software is required?
PanelBuilder 32 is used to design and load applications. - Can I replace parts easily?
Yes—legend strips, backlights, overlays, and membranes are field replaceable . - What communication ports are available?
Primary RS‑232 (DH‑485) plus a printer RS‑232 port. B5A14 also supports Remote I/O. - What are the dimensions?
Terminal: 167×266×106 mm; panel cutout: 144×243 mm . - Environmental ratings?
Industrial grade, requires ventilation; not sealed for washdown. - Is migration to newer HMIs possible?
Yes—compatible with PanelView Plus 7 via adapter kits; conversion docs available. - Is support still available?
While PanelView 550 is obsolete, replacement parts and migration paths via FactoryTalk View exist.
User Review Summary
Based on Monitech and DO Supply listings:
- Pros: Reliable dual-input, robust keypad; easy to customize; stable monochrome display.
- Cons: Aging, limited graphics; no Ethernet; obsolete form factor; sourcing can be tricky.
Comparison with Competing Products
- PanelView 550 vs PanelView Plus 7: PanelView Plus 7 offers full-color displays, Ethernet, logging, and better resolution—but requires different software/hardware and may need adapter.
- 2711‑B5A9 vs B5A14: B5A9 is suited for standard AC systems, B5A14 is for 24 V DC panels with Remote I/O support.
- PanelView 550 vs Keypad-only 550: Touch+keypad models (B5A9/B5A14) are more flexible; keypad-only cheaper but lacks point-and-click input.
Technical Specifications
• Display: 5.5″ monochrome 256×128 pixels (blue)
• Input: Resistive touchscreen + 10‑key domed membrane
• Power: B5A9 = 100–240 VAC; B5A14 = 24 V DC
• Communications: RS‑232 DH‑485 + RS‑232 printer; B5A14 includes Remote I/O
• Dimensions: Terminal 167×266×106 mm; cutout 144×243 mm
• Software: PanelBuilder 32; backward compatible
• Accessories: Legend strips, anti‑glare, backlights, RTC, mounting hardware
Brand or Manufacturer Info
Allen‑Bradley (Rockwell Automation) is a leading industrial automation brand known for durable, long-supported products and global service network. PanelView 550 is legacy but well-regarded for reliability.
Purchase Recommendations
Automationaccessories：https://www.automationaccessories.com/2711-b5a9-b5a14-touch-screen-membrane-keypad