The Main Allen-Bradley PLC Families

In this blog article, we will discuss the three main Allen-Bradley PLC families that can be used in your applications. When starting a new project or selecting a platform to learn PLC programming, determining the type of PLC controllers to use might be difficult. There are several automation companies to choose from, and each offers distinct families of PLCs to service different markets and applications. To help with your decision, this post will provide an overview of the PLC families offered by Rockwell Automation under the Allen-Bradley name.

Micro800 PLC

The Micro800 PLC series is Allen-Bradley’s entry-level line of PLC controllers. These are low-cost PLCs commonly used in small, standalone equipment. Micro800 PLCs offer essential capabilities to meet the needs of basic applications. They can be expanded with plug-in modules that add more I/O, connectivity options, or functionality to a controller. Micro800 PLCs are ideal for learning PLC programming since the hardware is cost-effective and the programming software is free to download.

CompactLogix PLC

CompactLogix PLCs are Allen-Bradley’s mid-range PLC controllers. They outperform the Micro800 series by offering faster scan times, more configuration options, and the ability to handle more devices, making them suitable for managing complex machines and smaller operations. For applications requiring a high number of I/Os, motion control, multiple variable frequency drives, or integrated safety, a CompactLogix PLC is an excellent choice.

ControlLogix PLC

Allen-Bradley’s main line of PLCs is called ControlLogix. In general, ControlLogix PLCs are the most advanced and powerful Allen-Bradley PLCs for sale. These PLCs are often used to control whole production or packing lines, as well as huge operations. ControlLogix PLCs often feature shorter scan times, larger IO counts, and the ability to incorporate additional devices. They also provide enhanced capabilities not seen in Micro800 or CompactLogix PLCs. Such as redundancy, which allows a process to continue functioning even if one device fails, and more communication choices such as HART, a communications standard widely used in the process sector.

Software

Studio 5000 Logix Designer is used to program both the ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs. Studio 5000 Logix Designer, unlike Connected Components Workbench, does not come free. However, as with many things in life, you get what you pay for, and Studio 5000 Logix Designer is jam-packed with additional capabilities not found in Connected Components Workbench that will help you become a more productive developer.

Conclusion

In this blog post, you learned what the three main Allen Bradley PLC families are and what applications each PLC family is suited for. Regardless of what Allen-Bradley PLC controller you select for a project, Mizen Automation can help you find the parts necessary for your PLC.

Information and images in this article are credited to RealPars.