What does PLC stand for

PLC Controllers

Optimize Productivity with Smarter, More Efficient Control Systems

Collage image of ControlLogix 5580, CompactLogix 5380 and Micro800 controllers superimposed on collage image of Food & Beverage and Water Wastewater application images.

From enhancing operational efficiency to achieving tangible cost-savings, Allen-Bradley® programmable controllers can help elevate your industrial automation to new heights.

Transform your operations into a Connected Enterprise® with our smart control solutions built with scalable controllers and I/O at its core. By leveraging advanced technology and robust design, our multi-disciplined controllers enable more reliability, scalability, and flexibility to adapt to evolving market needs. Start your programmable logic controller (PLC) and programmable automation controller (PAC) selection here.

Build a Scalable Solution for Optimal Productivity

Revolutionize your operations with a holistic solution that drives manufacturing agility and efficiency.

Scalable Control Systems

Develop smarter machines and get to market faster. Select the controller, I/O and visualization that fits your application needs.

Attachment Portfolio

Adapt to changing industry demands easily with additional software and hardware that supports your control system

Support

Achieve more with our global ecosystem of solution and support providers

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Gain a Competitive Edge with Smarter, Scalable Control

Meet discrete, process, motion, and safety application needs with our wide array of controllers. From the customizable programmable logic controller (PLC) to process systems typically seen in Distributed Control Systems (DCS), each portfolio is designed to help deliver a more productive and flexible control system.

Large Control Systems

Controller collage image with ControlLogix 5580, ControlLogix 5570 controllers in the top row and Logix SIS image at the bottom

Deliver powerful world-class capabilities for process, safety and motion requirements in the most demanding applications.

ControlLogix 5580 Controllers ControlLogix In-Chassis Compute Portfolio

ControlLogix 5570 Controllers

Logix SIS: Process Safety

Small Control Systems

A collage of CompactLogix and Compact GuardLogix controllers. From top to bottom, in left to right order, CompactLogix 5370, CompactLogix 5380, Compact GuardLogix 5380 SIL 3, CompactLogix 5480 and Compact GuardLogix 5380 SIL 2 controllers.

Enable smart machines and equipment for manufacturing. Choose from standard, safety and extreme temperature models with safety, motion, discrete and drive capabilities in one controller.

CompactLogix 5480 Controllers CompactLogix 5380 Controllers

CompactLogix 5370 Controllers SmartGuard 600 Controllers

SLC 500 Controllers

Micro Control Systems

Drive operational efficiency for small to large standalone automation. Built with customization and flexibility in mind, the Micro800™ controllers offer extended functionalities through expansion I/O and plug-in module options.

Micro870 Controllers Micro850 Controllers

Micro820 Controllers Micro810 Controllers

Micro800 Plug-in Modules MicroLogix 1400 Controllers

Process Controllers

Reduce your footprint and total cost of ownership with our ControlLogix® 5580 and CompactLogix® 5380 Process Controllers. The extension of the Logix family capabilities with cutting-edge processing power and capacity minimizes the complexity of PlantPAx® architectures.

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Learn More About Our Controllers

CompactLogix 5380 control system for smart machines

Micro800 control system for smart manufacturing

Micro800 controllers eBook

Logix Backup Digital Brochure

What is a Programmable Logic Controller?

A programmable logic controller is an industrial computer designed to automate manufacturing processes, machinery, and robotic systems. It uses programmable memory to store and execute instructions for tasks like monitoring inputs, processing logic, and controlling outputs.

PLC controllers are rugged, reliable, and built to withstand harsh environments, making them ideal for industrial automation. They can be programmed using ladder logic (LD), structured text (ST), or function block diagrams (FBD), allowing flexibility in controlling complex operations. PLCs are widely used in industries like manufacturing, energy, and food processing, helping to improve efficiency, reduce human error, and enhance system reliability.

What is a Programmable Automation Controller?

A programmable automation controller is an industrial control system that helps support plant-wide control needs ranging from analog through high-speed discrete control as part of Integrated Architecture. Offering high-availability and harsh environment capabilities, these controllers are ideal for complex industrial automation processes like motion control, process control and data acquisition.

Similar to a PLC control system, PACs use open communication standards that allow seamless connectivity with other industrial systems and networks. They support multiple programming languages such as ladder logic, structured text, function block diagrams, and sequential function charts, making them suitable for sophisticated automation tasks.

Advantages of Using a PLC/PAC

Programmable logic/automation controllers offer a wide range of benefits. These include:

Reliability and durability: PLC/PACs are built to withstand harsh industrial environments, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and industrial noise.
Automation and efficiency: PLC/PAC controllers automate repetitive tasks, improving production speed, reducing human error, and enhancing overall process efficiency.
Scalability: PLC/PACs can be easily reprogrammed or expanded to accommodate new processes, making them adaptable to changing production needs.
Real-time monitoring and control: PLC/PAC controllers provide instant data on machine performance, allowing operators to detect and resolve issues quickly.
Cost savings: By reducing downtime, improving process control, and minimizing errors, PLC/PACs help lower operation and maintenance costs.
Energy efficiency: Optimized control of machinery helps reduce energy consumption, lowering operational expenses and environmental impact.
Integration with other systems: PLC/PACs can communicate with SCADA, MES, ERP, and IoT systems, enabling seamless industrial automation and data exchange.

How Does a PLC/PAC Controller Work?

Programmable logic/automation controllers work by continuously executing a cycle of operations: input scanning, processing, output control, and communication. They first read data from connected input devices like sensors, switches, or buttons to detect system conditions. Then, based on the programmable logic, PLC/PACs process the input data and determine necessary actions. Next, PLC/PACs activate or adjust output devices such as motors, valves, or alarms to control industrial processes. This cycle repeats in milliseconds, enabling real-time automation and precise control of machinery and production systems.

Make It a Scalable Control System

Achieve smart manufacturing goals faster with an integrated Automation Solution. Unlock the power of a scalable control system through the easy integration of our I/O modules, visualization, motion, and network security and infrastructure portfolio options including ControlNet®, DeviceNet® and EtherNet/IP™ networks.

Simplify Design with a Common Application Environment

Reimagine design with the convenience of configuring, programming and maintaining the devices in your control system, all in one software.

Studio 5000 Logix Designer

Software

Studio 5000 Logix Designer

Studio 5000 Logix Designer® software is a productivity win and your one-stop shop for managing the Allen‑Bradley Logix 5000® family of controllers and related control system.

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Connected Components Workbench

Software

Connected Components Workbench

Simplify standalone machine development and reduce design time for multiple industries with the Connected Components Workbench™ software.

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RSLogix 500

Software

RSLogix 500

Save project development time and improve productivity when you program your MicroLogix™ controllers with RSLogix 500® software.

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Simplify Your Processes with the Right Resources and Support

Technical Documentation Center

Find recommended technical specifications, installation instructions and manuals, organized by product family.

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PartnerNetwork

Our PartnerNetwork™ program provides customers with an integrated team of engineering specialists and suppliers that are leaders in the automation and manufacturing industry.

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LifecycleIQ

Our LifecycleIQ™ Services connect, secure, mobilize, and scale your manufacturing operations for greater performance, reliability, safety, and ongoing innovation.

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Literature Library

Find a wide selection of publications that support Rockwell Automation, FactoryTalk and Allen‑Bradley products, services and solutions.

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Knowledgebase

Browse the database of questions and answers on a variety of products and technologies.

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Industries

We have the expertise and solutions to meet your unique industrial automation challenges anywhere in the world.

Oil and Gas

Industry

Oil and Gas

Sustaining profitability with our automation, control, and safety systems for your entire supply chain.

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Water Wastewater

Industry

Water Wastewater

Dependable, flexible and integrated control system to lower project and maintenance costs for your water treatment and distribution systems.

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Food and Beverage

Industry

Food and Beverage

Integrate operations, improve performance, and provide product consistency for your food and beverage operations.

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Life Sciences

Industry

Life Sciences

Life Sciences facility of the future with our automation and information systems.

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Programmable Controllers Customer Success Stories

Discover how we have helped businesses like yours to break down productivity barriers and become more agile and efficient across their operations.