Rockwell Automation’s products represent one of the most extensive, impressive, and diverse collections of I/O solutions on the market. In this article we will explore their ArmorBlock 5000® and FLEX 5000™ distributed I/O solutions to help you better understand their similarities and differences and choose the solution best suited to the work you do and the plants that you operate.
ArmorBlock 5000 vs. FLEX 5000: Two Unique Distributed I/O Solutions
Rockwell Automation’s ArmorBlock 5000 and FLEX 5000 are two different distributed I/O systems designed for deployment in different industrial automation environments. Your choice between these two solutions will depend on the specific needs of your application.
Both ArmorBlock 5000 and FLEX 5000 perform similar functions. They’re distributed I/O solutions that connect industrial devices to modules. The biggest difference between the two is where you’ll find them. FLEX 5000 goes inside of an enclosure, while ArmorBlock 5000 lives outside of the enclosure, close to the machines doing the work. Let’s take a closer look at each solution.=
ArmorBlock 5000: Designed for On-Machine Installation
ArmorBlock 5000: Designed for On-Machine InstallationArmorBlock 5000 modules are engineered for installation outside the panel, directly on the machine, in proximity to the sensors and actuators. With an IP67 rating, they are highly resistant to dust and water, making them ideal for harsh environments. There are 2 variants of ArmorBlock 5000: a 16-point configurable I/O block (each point can be a digital input or output) and an 8-channel IO-Link Master module with additional configurable I/O. Each has dual ethernet and power connections that allow for daisy-chained connections from block to block. These ruggedized M12 connections (I/O and ethernet) reduce the need for additional enclosures and terminal blocks. Because ArmorBlock 5000 solutions can only have 16 points of I/O per block, expansion requires the addition of more blocks. ArmorBlock 5000’s on-machine installation means you don’t need long sensor cable runs. Because it’s a modular and “connectorized” solution, replacement is easy and requires minimal downtime.
FLEX 5000: Built for In-Panel Installation
FLEX 5000 is a modular system designed for in-panel installation wherein each I/O type (digital output, analog output, etc.) is housed in its own module. They feature a flexible configuration, allowing for a mix-and-match of different I/O modules, connected via a modular backplane. Flex 5000 has a higher I/O capacity than ArmorBlock 5000 because up to 16 modules can be installed per network adapter. Flex 5000 also offers safety I/O functionality, which ArmorBlock 5000 currently does not. Modules can be “hot-swapped” in a running system, ensuring continuous operation and preventing shutdowns. Flex 5000 is also designed to be mounted either vertically or horizontally in the enclosure allowing more flexibility in retrofits and smaller panels.
Two Powerful Distributed I/O Solutions, One Trusted Supplier
Both ArmorBlock 5000 and FLEX 5000 represent the latest evolution in a long line of Rockwell Automation distributed I/O solutions. As we’ve covered, your unique application will guide you in determining which solution is better suited for your operations.
As a Rockwell Automation Authorized Distributor, Agilix Solutions is your trusted partner for Rockwell Automation distributed I/O solutions. We feature an impressive inventory, as well as a strong team of Rockwell Automation specialists ready to help you select the products to meet your specifications. Contact your Account Manager or call your local Agilix Branch to take your first steps toward modern distributed I/O.