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 designed ArmorBlock 5000 and FLEX 5000 as two distinct distributed I/O systems for 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. These distributed I/O solutions 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 specifically engineered for installation outside the panel, directly on the machine, close to sensors and actuators. With an IP67 rating, they offer excellent resistance to dust and water, making them ideal for harsh industrial environments. Additionally, there are two variants of ArmorBlock 5000: a 16-point configurable I/O block, where each point functions as a digital input or output, and an 8-channel IO-Link Master module with additional configurable I/O. Both variants feature dual ethernet and power connections, enabling daisy-chained connections from block to block.
These rugged M12 connections for I/O and ethernet reduce the need for extra enclosures and terminal blocks. However, because ArmorBlock 5000 solutions only support 16 points of I/O per block, expanding the system requires adding more blocks. The on-machine installation of ArmorBlock 5000 eliminates the need for long sensor cable runs, which enhances efficiency. Moreover, its modular and “connectorized” design simplifies replacement, resulting in minimal downtime and quick installation.
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 supports up to 16 modules per network adapter, offering higher I/O capacity than ArmorBlock 5000. Flex 5000 includes safety I/O functionality, a feature not available in ArmorBlock 5000. You can hot-swap modules in Flex 5000, ensuring continuous operation and preventing shutdowns. You can mount Flex 5000 vertically or horizontally, offering flexibility for retrofits and smaller enclosures.
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.