Allen-Bradley 5069-L306ER CompactLogix 5380 Controller

The entry-level CompactLogix 5380 controller

The Allen-Bradley 5069-L306ER is the smallest CompactLogix 5380 controller. It has 0.6 MB of user memory, supports up to eight local Compact 5000 I/O modules and up to 16 EtherNet/IP nodes, and has two gigabit Ethernet ports plus a USB 2.0 type B port. Programming is in Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram and Sequential Function Chart using the Studio 5000 Logix Designer application.

The controller is intended for small machines that need EtherNet/IP I/O and device networks rather than a large local rack. It supports Dual-IP mode and Linear/DLR mode, so it can sit in a ring or in a star network.

Technical specifications

Power and connections

The controller has separate MOD power and SA power connections. MOD power is 18 to 32V DC at up to 450 mA with an inrush of 850 mA for 125 ms, and can pass up to 9.55 A on to the next module. SA power can be DC or AC. Each connection is made with a separately ordered RTB: a 4-point RTB for MOD power and a 6-point RTB for SA power, supplied together in the 5069-RTB64-SCREW or 5069-RTB64-SPRING kit. Screw RTBs are tightened to 0.4 N•m and take 0.5 to 1.5 mm² (22 to 16 AWG) wire.

When the I/O modules need both AC and DC field power, a 5069-FPD field module separates the two SA power buses.

Memory, I/O and variants

The 5069-L306ER ships with a 2 GB SD card (1784-SD2). The M versions, such as the 5069-L306ERM, add Integrated Motion on EtherNet/IP with up to two position-loop drive axes, while the L306ER does not. Larger controllers in the same publication offer more memory and more local I/O. Our catalogue also lists the 5069-L320ER and the 5069-L340ERM.

System planning checks

Before the 5069-L306ER is ordered for a project, compare the application against its limits rather than its typical use. Count the local Compact 5000 I/O modules and the EtherNet/IP nodes the machine will need, including drives, remote I/O, HMIs and other devices that consume node allocation, and leave spare capacity for later changes. Estimate the size of the application program and data against the user memory, and decide whether CIP Security will be used, since the I/O capacity figures in the table fall as security levels rise. Choose Dual-IP or Linear/DLR mode at the design stage, because it affects how the two Ethernet ports are wired and addressed.

Mounting and power wiring

The controller mounts horizontally on DIN rail inside a suitable enclosure, with Compact 5000 I/O modules attached to its right. Wire MOD power and SA power from properly protected supplies, and keep in mind that MOD and SA power pass through the controller to the modules that follow, so the total current through the chain must stay within the passthrough ratings. Order the correct RTB kit, screw or spring type, according to your panel wiring standard. Keep the Ethernet cables segregated from power wiring and use industrial connectors where the cabinet is subject to vibration.

Commissioning and firmware

Set the IP addressing, then match the controller firmware revision to the revision chosen in the Studio 5000 Logix Designer project before downloading. Verify each local I/O module in the I/O tree, test every input and output with the machine isolated, and confirm that EtherNet/IP devices connect with the expected requested packet interval. When the project is complete, store a copy on the SD card and keep an archived copy of the project file, network drawings and IP address list for the maintenance team.

Operating environment in Oman

Machine panels in Oman may be exposed to high summer temperatures, dust and, at coastal plants, salty humid air. As an open-style device, the controller relies on its enclosure for protection, so use a sealed cabinet with cooling sized for local conditions, keep cable entries sealed, and include filter cleaning and internal temperature checks in the preventive maintenance plan. Reviewing the controller diagnostics and the Ethernet port statistics during each planned stop also helps the maintenance team spot a failing cable or connector before it causes unplanned downtime, which matters on sites where travel time to the machine is long.

Documents and quotation

The Rockwell Automation CompactLogix 5380 controller specifications, publication 5069-TD002, are attached. See our PLC and I/O cards catalogue for related I/O. Confirm the exact catalog number, series letter and firmware or hardware revision on the product label, and the compatibility with your existing system, before ordering. Stock and lead time are confirmed at quotation.