Hardware Comparison: MicroLogix 1500 Selection Guide

The Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1500 stands out in the MicroLogix family as the most powerful and expandable model, designed for applications requiring small footprints but robust control. With up to 512 I/O points and a modular structure, it is ideal for industrial, commercial, and building automation environments.

The MicroLogix 1500 builds upon the capabilities of the 1100 and 1200 families while offering enhanced flexibility and performance. Its standout features include:

• Two-Part Architecture:

  • Controller Base Options: 1764-24BWA, 1764-24AWA, 1764-28BXB

  • Removable CPUs:

    • 1764-LSP: 7.65K words of memory

    • 1764-LRP: 14K words of memory

• Expanded I/O:

  • Embedded I/O: 28 digital I/O

  • Expandability: Up to 512 I/O points

  • Analog I/O: Achievable via compact I/O modules

• High-Speed Counters & Motion:

  • Two high-speed counters (20kHz)

  • Two 20kHz PWM outputs

• Communication:

  • Two RS-232 ports

  • Expandable EtherNet/IP via 1761-NET-ENI/ENIW

• Supported Networks:

  • RS-232, RS-485, SCADA RTU (DF1), ASCII

  • DeviceNet with 1769-SDN scanner

• Flexible Communication Protocols

• Large Memory Options (up to 14KB)

• Event/Time-Based Data Logging

• On-the-Fly Data Change with DAT Tool

• STI and Event Interrupts for High-Speed Applications

Power Inrush Ratings:

• 24BWA / 24AWA: 25A for 8ms @ 120V AC, 40A for 4ms @ 240V AC

• 28BXB: 4A for 150ms @ 24V DC

• Compact Modular I/O Expansion (rackless installation)

• Download Protection for Data Files

• TRS/CTS and RTS/CTS/DCD Handshake Support

• DH485 and DeviceNet Network Connectivity

• ASCII Messaging with Dial-Out Capability

• RTU Support with DF1 Half-Duplex Communication

• Series A: Not field-upgradable

• Series B and later: Field-upgradable with firmware enhancements

• Firmware Upgrades: Enable new functionalities, not mandatory but helpful for advanced tasks

• Over 40 plug-in expansion modules available

• Compatible module catalog prefix: 1769-XXXX

• Modules include:

  • 2-channel and 4-channel analog input/output

  • Specialty communication modules

  • DeviceNet and other fieldbus protocol support

The MicroLogix 1500 bridges the gap between compact control systems and large-scale automation requirements. With its high-speed I/O processing, expandable architecture, and flexible communication support, it remains a popular choice for scalable automation solutions. When selecting a base unit and CPU, users should consider power needs, memory requirements, I/O expectations, and network integration goals to fully leverage the power of the MicroLogix 1500 platform.

For more information or help selecting the right drive, contact PLG Automation:Email: sales@plgautomation.comPhone: 800-906-9271