2025-04-30

Selecting the right Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is pivotal for enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring system reliability. This guide compares two prominent PLC lines: Allen Bradley's MicroLogix and Panasonic's FP PLC. Both brands are renowned for innovation and performance in industrial automation. This comparison will highlight technical specifications, system compatibility, safety compliance, and industry-specific applications.

Allen Bradley MicroLogix Series

Historical Background:

• Founded in 1903, Allen Bradley introduced the first PLC in 1970.

• MicroLogix series launched in 1994 with the MicroLogix 1000.

• Known for compact design and compatibility with SLC-500 systems.

Key Models & Specifications:

• MicroLogix 1000: 6 inputs/6 outputs, 120/240V AC, 1k words memory, RS-232.

• MicroLogix 1100: 10 inputs/6 outputs, Ethernet + RS-232/485, 8k words memory.

• MicroLogix 1200: 14 inputs/10 outputs, RS-232/485, 6k words memory.

• MicroLogix 1400: 20 inputs/12 outputs, Ethernet/serial ports, 64k words memory.

• MicroLogix 1500: Expandable, 12 inputs/12 outputs, 32k words memory.

• MicroLogix 800: 28 inputs/20 outputs, Ethernet + serial ports, 20k words memory.

Architecture:

• Non-rack based, expandable via modules and end caps.

• Compatible with RSLogix 500 and RSLogix Micro software.

Panasonic FP PLC Series

Historical Background:

• Founded in 1918; rebranded as Panasonic Corporation in 2008.

• Known for compact and high-speed PLC solutions.

Key Models & Specifications:

• FP7 Series: Industry 4.0 ready, integrated Ethernet, supports up to 64 devices, 32GB SD card.

• FP0R Series: Compact, motion control for up to 4 axes, USB tool port.

• FP-X Series: Multi-axis stepper/servo control, expandable.

• FP0H Series: 10ns/step, dual Ethernet ports, up to 64k steps.

• FP-Σ Series: 32k steps, RISC processor, linear servo control.

• FP-X0 Series: Basic automation, up to 216 I/Os.

Software & Integration:

• Programmed with FPWIN Pro (supports ladder logic, function block).

• Protocols include Ethernet, MEWTOCOL, and Modbus.

• Modular and space-efficient design.

Compatibility & Integration

Allen Bradley MicroLogix:

• Software: RSLogix 500 / RSLogix Micro.

• Protocols: Ethernet/IP, DH-485, Modbus.

• Integration: Easy with existing AB systems; expandable modules.

Panasonic FP Series:

• Software: FPWIN Pro.

• Protocols: Ethernet, MEWTOCOL, Modbus.

• Integration: Ideal for compact and high-speed environments; modular scalability.

Safety Ratings & Standards

Allen Bradley MicroLogix:

• Standards: BS EN 61340-5-1:2007, ANSI/ESD S20.20:2014.

• Built-in safety features such as voltage monitoring.

• Suitable for industrial-grade safety environments.

Panasonic FP Series:

• Meets global safety standards (varies by model).

• High reliability and machine/operator safety functions.

Industry Suitability Comparison

Application Area	Allen Bradley MicroLogix	Panasonic FP PLC
Manufacturing & Production	Strong (MicroLogix 1400/1500)	Moderate
Pharmaceutical & Food	Good	Excellent (FP0H, FP-Σ)
Automotive & Heavy Industry	Excellent (MicroLogix 1500)	Moderate
Packaging & Material Handling	Strong	Strong (Compact models)
Smart Manufacturing/IoT	Limited	Excellent (FP7, FP-XH)

Example Matchups:

• MicroLogix 1400 vs. FP7: Industrial networking vs. IoT-ready web integration.

• MicroLogix 1100 vs. FP0R: Compact, small-scale automation.

• MicroLogix 1200 vs. FP-X: Cost-effective general use vs. expandable advanced control.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Allen Bradley MicroLogix and Panasonic FP PLC series depends on your application's scale, environment, and specific automation needs.

• Choose Allen Bradley MicroLogix for robust networking, large-scale manufacturing, and compatibility with existing Rockwell systems.

• Choose Panasonic FP PLC for high-speed, compact applications, or smart manufacturing systems requiring web-based data integration and modern Ethernet support.

Both series offer proven reliability, industry certifications, and flexibility, making them suitable for a wide range of industrial tasks.

Contact PLG Automation today:
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271