Introducing CompactLogix controllers

In 2001, Rockwell Automation first shipped the L43 CompactLogix (Bulletin 1768) controllers, targeted at small- to medium-size automation solutions. At launch, the CompactLogix Controller was intended as the long-term replacement for the SLC-500 controller family. The CompactLogix control platform was designed with an emphasis on the controller software. As the CompactLogix hardware evolves with improved performance and additional features, the logic can easily be migrated to new hardware and firmware versions.

Unlike the SLC-500 platform, the CompactLogix controllers can be programmed using the same RSLogix 5000 (Logix Designer) software suite that is used with ControlLogix. In 2006, the CompactLogix L43 was launched with integrated motion support. In 2008, Rockwell Automation released the low-cost CompactLogix L23 (Bulletin 1769) controllers with embedded I/O and the L3x modular (Bulletin 1769) controllers.

In 2009, Compact GuardLogix, an SIL 3 certified controller with the L43S and L45S CPU supporting integrated safety was added to the Logix family. The 1769 CompactLogix modules do not have a chassis like the ControlLogix modules do. The 1769 CompactLogix modules can connect together using a DIN rail (which stands for "Deutsches Institut fur Normung rail") can be screwed in directly to a panel. In 2016, the latest generation of CompactLogix controllers was announced, the Bulletin 5069 CompactLogix 5380 Controllers.

The following table provides a high-level overview of the evolution of the CompactLogix family of controllers:

In the next section, we will discuss the various form factors and features that comprise the CompactLogix family of controllers in greater detail.