ControlLogix 5570 (L7 Series)

The ControlLogix L7 5570 model controllers were released in 2014 and introduced many new features along with Version 21 Firmware. This development, for example, allowed documentation to be stored onboard the CPU. Further, it provided enhanced compatibility with IO such as PowerFlex drives, allowing drive parameters to be configured within the PLC program when coupled with the Add-On Profile (AOP). L6 to L7 was a significant development!

These controllers still support of course multiple networks (EtherNet/IP, ControlNet, DeviceNet, etc.) and integrated motion. Whilst highly capable, the L7 is now being phased out in favour of newer platforms, ControlLogix L8 and L9. Nonetheless, they still can accommodate the latest firmware versions, and provide the integration with most types of IO and Drives.

Prices for L7 and L8 Controllers are comparable, so there is no incentive to buy the older 1756-L7.

One warning – the new PointMax IO for example is NOT compatible with the ControlLogix L7. So do some checks before finalising a system design – a Google query will reveal most compatibility issues.

The L7 Range is represented by the following models:

Standard controllers

• 1756-L71 2MB
• 1756-L72 4MB
• 1756-L73 8MB
• 1756-L74 16MB
• 1756-L75 32MB

Safety (GuardLogix) variants

• 1756-L71S
• 1756-L72S
• 1756-L73S

Specialty / variants

On-Machine and conformal coated variants

Extreme temperature (XT) versions (e.g., 1756-L7xXT)