Manufacturers can make more-informed operating decisions regarding their production with the new Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 5480 controller from Rockwell Automation.

This combines a Logix ‘control engine’ and the Microsoft Windows 10 IoT Enterprise operating system in a single platform, allowing machine information to be viewed at its source.

Jason Shaw, global product manager (controllers) at Rockwell Automation said: “The controller can collect raw machine data and reveal it to workers as useful information, right at the machine level (ab.rockwellautomation.com).

“Providing these insights close to where they originate allows workers to make smarter and faster operating decisions, and ultimately increase productivity.”

The CompactLogix 5480 can support applications with up to 150 axes of motion; it also provides fast ‘scan-time execution’ and motion-loop updates to help improve machine throughput.

The controller also incorporates multiple security functions, including user authentication and authorisation, role-based access and digitally signed encryption; and because the Windows operating system runs independently from the control engine, any disruptions to the operating system will not affect machine or line control.