Engineering Software for Allen-Bradley Logix Controllers

A new version of Rockwell Automation’s multi-functional RSLogix 5000 engineering software allows expanded process control and automation functions with Allen-Bradley Logix controllers.

The new software – called RSLogix 5000 version 17 – offers three new advanced process control (APC) function blocks, along with a new redundancy module and improvements in system availability.

This new functionality stems from Rockwell Automation’s focus on “helping process customers improve their operations,” according to a spokesperson from the company.

“We have experienced major growth in the adoption of the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture in process industries by focusing on the continued expansion of portfolio capabilities,” said Rockwell business development manager for process solutions in Asia Pacific, Andrew Sia. “For process automation users, the new offerings help improve the control and availability features of the Logix control platform.”

Process users across various industries will be able to use the new APC function blocks. And though these applications have a longer ‘dead time’ or interaction between multiple I/Os, process users often require a level of control flexibility that is not found in traditional PID-based systems, says Rockwell.

The new APC blocks provide compensation for long, dead-time processes and allow simpler, multi-variable control with automatic tuning built-in, says the company. Other functions include internal model control, coordinated control, and modular multi-variable control.