Rockwell expands A-B CompactLogix with two controllers

Mayfield Heights, OH— To offer more control options and advanced functions in an economical, easy-to-scale platform, Rockwell Automation recently added two controllers to its Allen-Bradley CompactLogix family and increased options for end-users and OEMs seeking flexible machine control in a compact, space-saving package. CompactLogix 1769-L32E provides cost-effective EtherNet/IP connectivity, while the CompactLogix 1769-L31 delivers the necessary functionality for stand-alone control. Both controllers offer the advanced scalability and integration of the Allen-Bradley Logix platform.

‘The entire CompactLogix family combines the benefits of Logix technology, which include a common programming environment, network architecture and control engine, with a compact-yet-robust design,’ says Sam Malizia, Rockwell’s CompactLogix product manager. ‘Our two newest controllers expand the options for scalability, enabling users to choose the most cost-effective, small controller to meet their specific application requirements.’

1769-L32E is a scaled-down version of the previously released 1769-L35E, and creates a more economical solution for less complex applications. The new L32E controller offers an I/O memory capacity of 750 Kbytes, while supporting 16 local I/O modules. Removable CompactFlash support enables fast, portable program archival and recovery options, and a potential battery alternative.

Also, the integrated 10/100 Mbps EtherNet/IP connectivity delivers high-speed data throughput for distributed I/O, HMI and data collection, making the L32E controller ideal for material handling, high-speed packaging and water/wastewater, which are applications where EtherNet/IP system capability can handle control and cost-effectively meet demand for plant-wide data sharing.

Meanwhile, 1769-L31, brings the next-generation Allen-Bradley Logix platform to a stand-alone controller, expanding features, power and performance with an only modest increase in price over the previously released CompactLogix 1769-L30. The new L31 controller offers double the memory, double the speed and more backplane throughput than the L30. In addition, 1769-L31 provides dual serial ports, which allow users to communicate with two different types of equipment. One port may be communicating with an Allen-Bradley PanelView Plus operator interface, for example, while the other may be used for online controller editing.

1769-L31 also supports DF1, ASCII, and Modbus master and slave pro-tocols. It is reportedly ideal for stand-alone packaging, oil/gas and municipality SCADA applications, and HVAC building automation.

Control Engineering Daily News DeskJim Montague, news editorjmontague@reedbusiness.com

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