CompactLogix Controllers
First CompactLogix Controllers were released in late 2000. For almost 25 years they have been playing huge role in automation. There are many machines that run on these controllers every day. Designed for small to medium-size applications (machines). There have been several generations since first CompactLogix controllers were released.
They are a lower-cost alternative to the ControlLogix system. They support I/O expansion modules, motion, safety, communication over Ethernet/IP.
CompactLogix is Rockwell Automation’s mid-range that run the Logix control engine (Studio 5000 Logix Designer) and are designed to scale from small standalone machines to multi‑axis motion and integrated safety applications. They combine CPU, communications, and local I/O options in compact packages to simplify machine design and migration from legacy SLC/PLC5 systems.

The CompactLogix product line spans the proven 5370/5380 series up to the higher‑performance 5480 and the new 5390 (planned Q4 2026), offering integrated EtherNet/IP, motion, and optional safety — choose 5370 for compact, cost‑sensitive machines, 5380 for higher I/O and motion, and 5480/5390 when CPU performance, memory, or advanced HMI/edge integration matter.
Product Highlights.
- 1769/5370 family: modular, chassis‑free controllers introduced to replace older SLC platforms; strong for embedded I/O and small motion.
- 5380 series: higher throughput, more memory and I/O capacity, enhanced security (signed firmware, role‑based access), and expanded motion capability.
- 5480 and 5390: target higher compute and integrated HMI/edge scenarios; 5390 announced with availability Q4 2026 for modern, compact high‑performance applications.
- Integrated motion: many CompactLogix CPUs support multi‑axis coordinated motion over EtherNet/IP.
- Security features: newer models include digitally signed firmware and role‑based access to meet industrial cybersecurity needs.
- Migration tools: Rockwell provides paths and tools to migrate SLC/PLC5 projects to CompactLogix, reducing retrofit risk
If you need more information about Rockwell’s Automation CompactLogix product, don’t hesitate to contact Us.
