Omron’s NX1 Series: Next-Gen Controllers for Industrial Automation

In the evolving landscape of industrial automation, OMRON Automation continues to lead with innovation. Their latest release, the NX1 Series Machine Automation Controller, exemplifies next-generation capabilities, seamlessly integrating control and information in a compact, IoT-ready device. Engineered to address the pressing challenges of modern factories like heightened quality control, adaptive safety systems, and real-time data use the NX1 Series is poised to redefine productivity and connectivity standards across manufacturing sectors.

Integrated Intelligence for the Smart Factory

The NX1 Series is built for manufacturers aiming to merge information technology and operational technology in a single, efficient system. This controller collects synchronized data from servomotors, sensors, and devices within a 1ms fixed cycle, enabling ultra-fast data processing and reducing overall system latency.

By combining machine control with high-speed data processing, the NX1 enhances quality, ensures traceability, and boosts productivity while maintaining safety. These capabilities make it particularly valuable for industries like food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, packaging, and automotive manufacturing.

Robust Features for Maximum Versatility

The NX1 Series brings a host of high-performance features, including:

• Three built-in Ethernet ports for EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, and OPC UA.

• Control of up to 12 motion axes via EtherCAT—without additional hardware.

• Direct database connectivity to SQL databases, enabling real-time production tracking and eliminating the need for middleware.

• Modular safety integration, allowing seamless connection with the NX-SL5 Safety CPU Unit.

With these features, manufacturers can develop a unified control and safety system that reduces cost and complexity, while enhancing flexibility.

High-Speed Analog Data Acquisition

When paired with the NX-HAD4 Unit, the NX1 can acquire analog data at five microseconds sampling speed the fastest in the industry. This capability allows on-the-fly condition monitoring, such as vibration detection in rotating equipment, replacing the need for dedicated inspection systems and enabling integrated quality control within production lines.

Built for Industrial Reliability

The NX1 Series complies with rigorous global standards including IEC 61010-2-201 and EN 61131-2, and meets cULus, RCM, KC, EAC, and marine certifications (NK, LR). Key specifications include:

• Operating temperature: 0–55°C

• Humidity tolerance: 10%–95% (non-condensing)

• Altitude support: up to 2,000m

• Shock and vibration resistance: Conforming to IEC 60068 standards

• Noise immunity: Up to 2kV

Advanced Motion and Communication Capabilities

Omron’s NX1 excels in motion control with features like:

• Position, torque, and velocity control

• Linear and circular interpolation

• Multi-axis synchronous operations

Communication is equally advanced, with support for:

• CIP, TCP/IP, UDP/IP, FTP, SNMP, and NTP

• EtherCAT CoE, SDO, and DC synchronization

• OPC UA server functionality for secure IIoT integration

The controller also supports structured text (ST) and ladder programming, enabling developers to create powerful, flexible automation routines with PLCopen function blocks.

Database-Driven Precision

NX1 models like the NX102-1220 and NX102-9020 support:

• Direct interaction with major databases (SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL, etc.)

• Simultaneous connections, batch inserts, stored procedures

• Spool functions and operation logs for complete data control

This tight integration ensures real-time quality tracking and traceability critical for compliance heavy sectors.

Smart Factory Philosophy: “Innovative-Automation!”

OMRON’s NX1 is a cornerstone of its “Innovative-Automation!” approach, which promotes:

• Integrated control

• Intelligent decision-making through ICT

• Interactive collaboration between humans and machines

These principles are embedded in every feature of the NX1 Series, enabling manufacturers to build smarter, safer, and more efficient production lines.

Conclusion: The Game-Changer in Automation

The Omron NX1 Series is more than just a controller it's a comprehensive solution for next-generation smart factories. With cutting-edge motion control, real-time data integration, and robust industrial standards compliance, it equips manufacturers to meet the future with confidence.

Whether you're upgrading legacy systems or building new smart production lines, the NX1 Series delivers unmatched performance and flexibility. With Omron’s continued commitment to innovation, the NX1 is not just a controller it’s a catalyst for transformation in industrial automation.

For more information, contact PLG Automation:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271