Allen-Bradley Micrologix vs. Panasonic FP PLC

Selecting the right Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is more than a technical decision; it’s a pivotal choice that impacts operational efficiency and system reliability. In our comparison, two notable PLC lines take center stage: Allen Bradley’s Micrologix and Panasonic’s FP PLC. Renowned for their robust performance, these series stand out with their innovative features and practical functionality.

Both Allen Bradley and Panasonic have shaped the automation technology landscape, and their PLC series reflect this expertise, designed to meet a wide range of industrial applications. We’re focusing on their technical specifications, system compatibility, adherence to safety standards, and effectiveness across various industrial environments. We aim to offer clear, informative, and directly applicable insights, guiding you toward an informed PLC selection.

By closely examining each series, we intend to highlight the unique attributes that can enhance the performance and safety of your automation systems.

Allen Bradley MicroLogix

Allen Bradley, a brand name under Rockwell Automation, has a rich history in industrial automation and control systems. The company, founded in 1903, has been at the forefront of several technological advancements in this field. Allen Bradley is credited with coining the term PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) when it introduced one of the first-ever programmable controllers in 1970, the 1774 PLC.

Over the years, Allen Bradley has continued to innovate and evolve its PLC offerings. One significant milestone was introducing the MicroLogix series in 1994, starting with the MicroLogix 1000. This model, seen as a replacement for the bulkier SLC-500 Fixed unit, was more compact and cost-efficient, offering 16 or 32 I/O points. The MicroLogix 1000, which was not expandable initially, was notable for its programming compatibility with the SLC-500 series and its support for both sinking and sourcing inputs in the DC Input models.

The MicroLogix 1000 was later supplemented with the ability to initiate communications using the DF1 or DH-485 protocol. Although discontinued in 2017, this series remains popular due to its low price and programming similarity to the SLC-500 series.

In terms of architecture, the MicroLogix platform differs from other Allen Bradley offerings like the ControlLogix and CompactLogix series in that it does not use a rack-based system. Instead, modules and a terminating end cap are inserted on each end, providing a more compact and cost-efficient solution for simpler applications.

The ControlLogix platform, introduced in 1997, represented a technological leap with tag-based addressing, faster processing, and greater memory capacity than previous PLC5 or SLC models. It also featured communication cards for Ethernet, DeviceNet, and ControlNet, placed in the rack rather than using the port on the processor.

The CompactLogix platform, launched in the early 2000s, aimed to provide a lower-cost solution. Like the MicroLogix, it avoided a rack-based design, adding modules to the ends of the power supply or power/CPU module instead.

Panasonic FP PLC

Panasonic, originally known as Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., was founded in 1918 by Konosuke Matsushita. Since its inception, Panasonic has been a significant player in the electronics and automation industry. The company’s name was changed to Panasonic Corporation in 2008, marking a new global branding and operations era.

Panasonic’s foray into programmable logic controllers (PLCs) reflects its commitment to innovation and technological advancement. The company offers a range of PLCs, each tailored to various industrial automation needs. Some of the popular PLC series from Panasonic include the FP-X Series, FP-XH Series, FP-X0 Series, FP-Σ (FP-Sigma) Series, FP0R Series, FP0H Series, FP2SH Series, and the FP7 Series.

Each series has unique strengths and is designed for specific applications. For instance, the FP7 Series is known for its web-integrated data collection capabilities, making it “Industry 4.0 Ready.” It’s compact, expandable, and supports high-capacity SD memory cards. On the other hand, the FP-X Series is recognized for its multi-axis control capabilities and compact design, which allows for space-saving installations.

The FP0H Series stands out for its high-speed processing and large program memory, making it suitable for remote-controlled applications. The FP-Σ Series boasts high processing speeds and is capable of linear servo control, highlighting its versatility in temperature control applications.

Panasonic’s PLCs are generally characterized by compact design, high efficiency, and adaptability to various industrial automation tasks. These PLCs have been used successfully in various sectors, including electronic component manufacturing, packaging, and food processing industries.

Allen Bradley MicroLogix Series

Exploring the diverse capabilities and technical nuances, we present an insightful overview of six distinct Allen Bradley MicroLogix series models. Each model showcases unique features and functionalities tailored to enhance various industrial applications.

MicroLogix 1100 (1763-L16BWA)

• Inputs/Outputs: 10 digital inputs, six relay outputs.
• Supply Voltage: 120/240 V ac.
• Memory: 8k words user program memory.
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C.
• Communication: Ethernet and RS-232/485 ports.
• Dimensions: Compact size, suitable for smaller applications.

MicroLogix 1200 (1762-L24BWA)

• Inputs/Outputs: 14 digital inputs, ten relay outputs.
• Supply Voltage: 120/240 V ac.
• Memory: Supports up to 6k words.
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C.
• Communication: RS-232/485 ports.
• Dimensions: Designed for space efficiency.

MicroLogix 1400 (1766-L32BWA)

• Inputs/Outputs: 20 digital inputs, 12 relay outputs.
• Supply Voltage: 120/240 V ac.
• Memory: Supports up to 64k words.
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C.
• Communication: Built-in Ethernet and serial ports.
• Dimensions: 87 x 180 x 90 mm.

MicroLogix 1500 (1764-24BWA)

• Inputs/Outputs: The base unit provides 12 digital inputs and 12 relay outputs; it is expandable.
• Supply Voltage: 120/240 V ac.
• Memory: Supports up to 32k words.
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +60°C.
• Communication: RS-232/485 ports; optional Ethernet.
• Dimensions: Modular design for flexible installation.

MicroLogix 1000 (1761-L16BWA)

• Inputs/Outputs: 6 digital inputs, six relay outputs.
• Supply Voltage: 120/240 V ac.
• Memory: 1k words.
• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C.
• Communication: Single serial port for RS-232.
• Dimensions: Ultra-compact for simple applications.

MicroLogix 800 (2080-LC50-48QBB)

• Inputs/Outputs: 28 digital inputs, 20 digital outputs.
• Supply Voltage: 20.4…26.4 VDC.
• Memory: 20k words.
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +55°C.
• Communication: RS-232/485 ports; Ethernet.
• Dimensions: Compact, modular design.

Each model in the MicroLogix series is designed for specific industrial environments, offering a range of input/output capacities, memory sizes, and other functionalities. The choice of model will depend on the application’s specific needs, including the scale of operation, required connectivity, environmental conditions, and space constraints.

Panasonic FP PLC Series

Let’s examine the Panasonic FP PLC series closely. We’ll uncover what sets each model apart, focusing on the specs that matter in industrial automation and how they perform in real-world applications.

FP7 Series

• Ethernet Connectivity: Integrated for web-based data collection, “Industry 4.0 Ready”.
• I/O Capacity: Can control up to 64 different devices.
• Memory Support: High-capacity SD memory cards up to 32GB.
• Design: Compact, modular construction.
• Application: Versatile for a wide range of applications.

FP0R Series

• Design: Extremely compact, suitable for small control cabinets.
• I/O Capacity: Up to four axes of motion control without an expansion unit.
• Communication: USB TOOL port for easy programming.
• Application: Ideal for labeling and small-scale automation applications.

FP-X Series

• Control Capabilities: Built-in pulse output for multi-axis stepper and servo motor control.
• Expandability: Additional cassettes can be added to enhance functionality without increasing size.
• Application: Suitable for various industrial applications, including complex motion control.

FP0H Series

• Processing Speed: Ultra-fast with 10ns per step.
• I/O Capacity: Direct integration of 2 Ethernet ports.
• Program Memory: Handles up to 64k steps.
• Design: Compact design for versatile applications.
• Application: Ideal for high-speed, remote-control applications.

FP-Σ (FP Sigma) Series

• Program Capacity: Up to 32k steps, expandable for complex equipment.
• Processing Speed: RISC processor for high-speed processing.
• Control Features: Suitable for linear servo control with high frequency and start speed.
• Application: Effective for temperature control and high-precision applications.

FP-X0 Series

• Functionality: Covers basic automation needs.
• I/O Capacity: Models with 14, 30, 40, and 60 I/Os, expandable up to 216 I/Os.
• Design: Compact and efficient for common motion control solutions.
• Application: Ideal for pairing with MINAS A5 servo actuators and MINAS LIQI.

Panasonic’s FP PLC series showcases various controllers tailored to specific industrial requirements. These models are known for their compactness, high-speed processing capabilities, and versatility in various industrial environments. The choice among these models should be based on the application’s specific needs, including control requirements, space constraints, and the complexity of the tasks.

Compatibility and Integration

After exploring the specific models of both Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series, it’s crucial to understand their compatibility and integration capabilities with existing systems and software. This section will focus on how these PLCs can be integrated into various industrial setups, considering software compatibility, programming ease, and infrastructure adaptability.

Allen Bradley MicroLogix Series

• Software Compatibility: MicroLogix PLCs are typically programmed using Rockwell Software’s RSLogix 500 and RSLogix Micro. These programming environments support ladder logic and structured text, widely used in industrial automation.
• Communication Protocols: They support a variety of communication protocols, including Ethernet/IP, DH-485, and Modbus, facilitating integration with various industrial networks.
• Ease of Integration: MicroLogix PLCs are known for their user-friendly interface, Which makes them easy to integrate into existing systems, especially those already using Allen Bradley equipment.
• Expansion Capabilities: MicroLogix controllers offer modular expansion capabilities, allowing additional I/O modules and functionality as system requirements grow.

Panasonic FP PLC Series

• Software Compatibility: Panasonic’s FP PLCs are programmed using FPWIN Pro, a software environment that supports multiple programming languages, including ladder logic and function block. This makes it adaptable to various programming preferences and skills.
• Communication Protocols: These PLCs support multiple communication standards, including Ethernet, MEWTOCOL, and Modbus, which are essential for modern industrial applications.
• Integration in Diverse Environments: Panasonic PLCs are known for their compact size and versatile design, making them suitable for integration in space-constrained environments and various industrial applications.
• Customization and Scalability: The FP series offers high customization with its range of models and expansion options, ensuring scalability according to industrial application needs.

Both Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series demonstrate robust compatibility and integration features. The choice between them should be based on the specific industrial environment, existing systems, and future scalability requirements. Factors like software ecosystem, communication protocols, and ease of integration significantly determine the right fit for an industrial setup.

Safety Ratings and Standards Compliance

Safety ratings and industry compliance are critical factors when picking a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). In this section, we’re examining the Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series. We’ll scrutinize their adherence to safety standards and certifications, offering a straightforward comparison to inform your decision.

Allen Bradley MicroLogix Series

• Safety Certifications: The MicroLogix series, as part of Rockwell Automation’s product line, typically adheres to stringent safety standards. Models like the MicroLogix 1400 comply with international standards such as BS EN 61340-5-1:2007 and ANSI/ESD S20.20:2014.
• Built-in Safety Features: Some models have integrated safety features, including digital potentiometers for voltage monitoring and other circuit protection mechanisms.
• Industrial Safety Compliance: These PLCs are designed for use in various industrial environments and are built to meet the necessary safety requirements specific to these settings.

Panasonic FP PLC Series

• Safety Certifications: Panasonic’s FP PLCs are also designed with safety in mind, though specific certifications may vary by model. The series meets global safety standards, ensuring reliable operation in diverse industrial conditions.
• Reliability and Safety Functions: These PLCs are known for their high reliability and include safety functions that protect the machinery and the operators.
• Compliance with Industry-Specific Standards: Panasonic ensures that its PLCs comply with the standards required in different industries, particularly automation and control systems.

Comparative Analysis

• Industry-Specific Safety Requirements: Both Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series are designed to meet the safety requirements of various industries. However, specific models may have different certifications and safety features, so it’s essential to check the compliance of the particular model you are interested in.
• Global Standards Compliance: Both brands strive to adhere to international safety standards, making their PLCs suitable for global industrial applications.
• Built-in Safety Mechanisms: Safety features, such as voltage monitoring and circuit protection, are integral to the design of these PLCs, though the specifics may vary between the two brands.

Safety is a paramount consideration in industrial automation. Both the Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series show a strong commitment to safety and compliance with industry standards. Potential buyers should review each model’s specific safety certifications and features to ensure they meet the required safety standards for their particular industrial application.

Head to Head for Industry Suitability

Let’s unravel the specifics of select models from the MicroLogix series by Allen Bradley and the FP PLC series by Panasonic. Our comparison will show how each model fits into different industry landscapes. By breaking down their features and functionalities, we aim to guide you towards identifying the most fitting PLC for your industrial needs.

MicroLogix 1400 (Allen Bradley) vs. FP7 Series (Panasonic)

• Industries: MicroLogix 1400 is well-suited for manufacturing and material handling due to its robust I/O capabilities and networking options. The FP7 Series, with its web integration, is ideal for industries focused on Industry 4.0 applications, such as smart manufacturing.
• Key Features: The MicroLogix 1400 offers Ethernet/IP support, making it versatile for various network configurations. The FP7 stands out for its high memory capacity and Ethernet connectivity.

MicroLogix 1100 (Allen Bradley) vs. FP0R Series (Panasonic)

• Industries: MicroLogix 1100 is ideal for small-scale automation projects, including simple machinery automation. The FP0R Series excels in compact environments, such as specialized machinery or small control cabinets.
• Key Features: The MicroLogix 1100 offers a good balance of inputs/outputs for small applications, while the FP0R Series is known for its compact design and motion control capabilities.
• MicroLogix 1200 (Allen Bradley) vs. FP-X Series (Panasonic)

• Industries: MicroLogix 1200 is suitable for general manufacturing and control systems. The FP-X Series is versatile for applications needing precise control, like in automated machinery or complex motion control systems.
• Key Features: The MicroLogix 1200 provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for various applications, whereas the FP-X Series offers advanced control features and expandability.

Industry Suitability

• Manufacturing and Production: MicroLogix and FP PLCs are suited for manufacturing environments. However, MicroLogix models like the 1400 series may offer more robust solutions for larger-scale manufacturing due to their extensive I/O capabilities and networking features.
• Pharmaceutical and Food Processing: In industries where precision and cleanliness are crucial, such as pharmaceuticals and food processing, Panasonic’s compact and highly precise controllers, like the FP0H and FP-Σ Series, may be more suitable.
• Automotive and Heavy Industry: Allen Bradley’s MicroLogix series, particularly models like 1500, is a favorable choice for automotive and heavy industries due to its robustness and scalability.
• Packaging and Material Handling: Both series’ versatility and ease of integration make them suitable for packaging and material handling. Panasonic’s compact controllers are beneficial in space-constrained environments.
• Smart Manufacturing and IoT Integration: For industries that are leaning towards smart manufacturing and IoT, Panasonic’s FP7 and FP-XH Series, with their advanced connectivity and web-based integration capabilities, are more appropriate.

Conclusion

Your decision between the Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series boils down to your unique industrial landscape – factoring in the scale of your operations, the intricacies of control you need, and the specific demands of your industry. Both series present a spectrum of models, each with its own set of strengths, designed to integrate into a variety of applications seamlessly. The right choice hinges on aligning these capabilities with your specific industrial objectives and challenges.