Category archives: A-B PLC Migrations, Support

Allen-Bradley PLC upgrades, conversions and programming software for obsolete products.

Podcast: A-B PLC Migrations

Last update on Sept. 21, 2023.

We're the guest on the Automation Blog's Podcast October 4th, with the topic of A-B PLC Migrations.  Listen/watch anytime after 3:30 EST at https://theautomationblog.com/category/content-type/video/.

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Can't get MicroLogix 1400? Here's your in stock solution!

Last update on April 14, 2023.

Our MLXP3xx series combines a Micro or NeoPAC SoftPLC with an Xpress I/O block to create the best MicroLogix alternatives:

  • Convert existing ladder logic & documentation files. Our conversion utility generates a better result than Rockwell's Micro800 or CompactLogix conversions!
  • Physical size similar to the 1766-L32xWxx controllers - with options to add more I/O if needed.
  • Data table addressing compatible with existing HMI applications
  • Supports peer-to-peer messaging to other Rockwell products
  • and more!
MLX Series NeoPAC

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In Stock: A-B RIO/DH Gateways

Last update on March 30, 2023.

We provide gateways to provide communication between devices on Allen-Bradley Remote I/O (RIO) or Data Highway Plus (DH+) networks and devices on other networks such as Ethernet/IP, ModbusTCP, DF1, Modbus serial and others, and both models are in stock:  our Smart and NeoPAC SoftPLC Gateways.

ProSoft Discontinued RIO/DH+ Gateway

ProSoft Technology recently discontinued their AN-X2-AB-DHRIO product, which was the only other supported gateway on the market.  SoftPLC Gateways provide more functionality than the ProSoft model (see the "Compare" tab at http://softplc.com/products/comm/abgw_landpg/) and are value priced options for customers needing "blue-hose" communications for partial system upgrades.

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Podcast - Automation Interface Exchange

Last update on April 15, 2022.

We recently participated in an Automation Interface Exchange podcast with one of our Distributors.  A preview is below.

You can listen to the entire Podcast here:  https://www.rockinterface.com/knowledge-center/podcasts/2x04/

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Smart SoftPLC & Gateway -v4 Coming Soon!

Last update on July 22, 2021.

Version 4 of the Smart SoftPLC/Smart Gateway hardware will be available in stock by the end of 2020.  The new products will include the same features of the existing product, plus many enhancements including:

  • Faster 64bit, quad-core CPU with 512MB RAM and 8GB on-board flash memory
  • 5 GB Ethernet ports, 4 on a switch with multiple MAC ID's
  • (2) USB 2.0 host ports
  • (3) configurable communication ports - choose any mix of A-B "bluehose" (Data Highway Plus or Remote I/O), RS-485, or others
  • embedded WiFi/Bluetooth, option for embedded cell modem

Product literature and web site updates ...

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New Video - Control System Migrations

Last update on May 27, 2020.

New Video - Control System Migrations

We've added a new video to our library.  This one discusses how SoftPLC Gateways can help A-B PLC users use phased migrations to upgrade their system vs complete retrofits.  Phased migrations reduce cost, downtime, and risk among other benefits.  

http://softplc.com/products/comm/abgw_landpg or https://youtu.be/BJqWs9y4R1g

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SoftPLC NeoPAC now available!

Last update on June 26, 2020.

SoftPLC NeoPAC now available!

A new family of SoftPLC controllers and gateways is now available - the NeoPAC.

Packed with the features of our other SoftPLC's, the NeoPAC provides a powerful platform for:

  • Machine control - Great for OEM's!
  • Protocol Converter - serial to ethernet and/or to Allen-Bradley "blue hose" Remote I/O or Data Highway Plus
  • Cellular RTU - Combined with TagWell, you can monitor and control remotely located systems at very low cost
  • Data Logger
  • and more!

The NeoPAC is the lowest cost option for Allen-Bradley PLC migrations and RIO/DH+ gateways on the market.  It also can be used with serial/ethernet ...

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Enhanced Ethernet/IP Driver for SoftPLC v4.6

Last update on Nov. 5, 2018.

Now Available for all SoftPLC controllers version 4.6 and later is an enhanced Ethernet/IPTM driver.  SoftPLC can act as an Ethernet/IP generic device (adapter), or as a scanner (master).  A SoftPLC can also be used to simulate a Logix PLC for simulation/testing/training purposes.  Features of the Ethernet/IP driver include:

  • Five millisecond timing granularity
  • I/O scanner: up to 128 total originating i/o connections to as many target slaves as needed.
    • each i/o connection may have its own forward open timeout, RPI timeout multiplier, connection type, connection trigger type,
    • each i/o ...

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PLC-2 Programming Software

Last update on Sept. 5, 2015.

PLC-2 Programming Software

We've re-packaged TOPDOC for PLC-2 so it can now run on most modern PC's, including Windows7/8 systems.  Connection to the PLC-2 front port from a USB port is supported via an included USB-serial converter that operates with our Attached Mode Cable.

Use TOPDOC PLC-2 to support old systems until you're ready to migrate or upgrade.  We make it easy to upgrade - purchase TOPDOC PLC-2 and you receive a FREE Smart SoftPLC and TOPDOC NexGen.  Click here for details on this offer.

Existing TOPDOC PLC-2 customers can receive the repackaged software and USB-serial converter with the purchase ...

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Upgrade A-B PanelView, Drives & More

Last update on Sept. 5, 2015.

July 2012 Newsletter Feature Article:

Attention PLC-5, SLC-500, PLC-2 and other A-B PLC/PAC Users of Remote I/O “blue hose":

SoftPLC provides easy, low cost upgarde solutions to replace drives, PanelViews & other A-B RIO devices - with no PLC changes required.

Then, over time, you can use the same Gateway to migrate the PLC, I/O, and more to a modern solution.

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