Micro850 Capabilities vs Cost: Is It Right for Your OEM Project?
Posted by asteam
from the Technology category at
26 Sep 2025 06:04:33 am.
Share this page: 
OEM projects demand automation solutions that are scalable, reliable, and cost-effective. Manufacturers often face challenges such as tight budgets, diverse I/O requirements, integration with multiple devices, and pressures to deliver machines faster. Choosing the right PLC is crucial to balance performance with affordability. The Allen-Bradley Micro850 PLC stands out as a versatile controller designed to meet these needs. It offers robust capabilities without the complexity or expense of larger PLC systems. This blog explores the Micro850’s features, connectivity options, scalability, and cost-effectiveness to help OEMs determine whether it’s the ideal fit for their machine control projects.
Micro850 Overview and Key Capabilities
The Allen-Bradley Micro850 is part of Rockwell Automation’s Micro800 family, engineered for modern machine control and OEM applications. One of its strongest features is scalable I/O, starting at 48 digital points on the base and expandable up to 132, providing flexibility for a wide range of machine sizes. Programming is simplified through Connected Components Workbench (CCW) software, which supports multiple languages such as Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Structured Text.
For process control, Micro850 supports PID loops, recipe management, and P&ID tag replication, making it suitable for machines requiring precise control of temperature, pressure, or batching. Its connectivity options—including EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and CANopen—enable seamless integration with HMIs, SCADA systems, and drives like the PowerFlex 520 series. Overall, it is ideal for OEMs needing either standalone machine control or skid-level solutions with modern, flexible automation.
Benefits for OEM Projects
Micro850 provides OEMs with flexibility and scalability, allowing machines to grow without major hardware changes. Its time and cost efficiency is enhanced by the integrated CCW software, which streamlines programming, troubleshooting, and commissioning, reducing engineering hours. OEMs also benefit from pre-built function blocks and compatibility with popular drives, accelerating machine integration and reducing design effort.
Advanced process control features, such as PID loops and recipe management, allow precise handling of key variables like temperature, pressure, and batching sequences. Compared to older models like the MicroLogix 1400, Micro850 offers modern communication options, higher memory capacity, and easier online edits, providing more flexibility without the cost or complexity of larger PLC families. This makes it a smart choice for mid-tier OEM projects seeking robust control without overspending.
Cost vs Capability Analysis
The Micro850 strikes a balance between affordability and performance. Its CCW software is free, reducing software licensing expenses, while scalable hardware options prevent over-specifying I/O, lowering upfront investment. The system also shortens project lifecycle costs by speeding up programming, testing, and troubleshooting.
For OEMs, this translates into better ROI compared to using larger, more expensive PLCs that may exceed project requirements. Micro850 is particularly cost-effective for small-to-medium machines, OEM skids, and mid-tier automation projects, providing modern features without the price tag of high-end controllers. Its combination of capability and affordability makes it ideal for OEMs who want reliability, connectivity, and efficiency without breaking the budget.
Integration and Connectivity Advantages
Connectivity is a key strength of Micro850. It supports EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and CANopen, allowing seamless communication with HMIs, SCADA systems, and drives. This enables remote monitoring, data acquisition, and predictive maintenance, helping reduce downtime and improve machine uptime.
Standardized I/O and pre-configured function blocks simplify multi-machine or modular line setups. OEMs can deploy turnkey solutions faster and with less engineering effort. Micro850’s connectivity options ensure smooth integration into modern industrial networks, making it easier to manage both standalone machines and complex production lines while maintaining flexibility for future upgrades.
Is Micro850 Right for Your OEM Project?
The Micro850 is best suited for projects requiring moderate to high I/O scalability, modern connectivity, and faster development timelines. It excels in delivering flexible, cost-effective control without the complexity of larger PLC families.
However, for very large or highly complex plants, high-end controllers may be more appropriate. For most OEMs, though, Micro850 provides a practical balance of performance and affordability, enabling faster deployment, easy integration, and reliable machine operation.
Conclusion
The Allen-Bradley Micro850 combines flexibility, connectivity, and cost efficiency, making it a strong choice for OEMs. It delivers modern automation features without high-tier PLC pricing, helping manufacturers bring machines to market faster while maintaining performance and reliability. For OEM projects seeking scalable I/O and smooth integration, Micro850 offers the ideal combination of capability and value.
FAQs
Q1. What makes Micro850 suitable for OEM projects?
Its scalable I/O, integrated CCW software, flexible connectivity, and cost-effective design fit diverse OEM machines.
Q2. How does Micro850 compare to MicroLogix 1400?
Micro850 offers higher memory, modern communications, easier online edits, and better drive integration at a competitive price.
Q3. Can Micro850 handle advanced process control?
Yes, it supports PID, recipe management, and P&ID tag replication for precise temperature, pressure, and batch control.
Q4. Is Micro850 cost-effective for smaller OEM machines?
Yes, free software, scalable hardware, and reduced programming effort lower both upfront and lifecycle costs.
Q5. What connectivity options does Micro850 provide?
It supports EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP, and CANopen for smooth integration with HMIs, SCADA, and PowerFlex drives.
Reach Us
Asteam Techno Solutions Pvt. Ltd. is AVEVA (Formerly Wonderware) Registered System Integrator providing sale/service/support and executing the HMI/SCADA, Historian/MES Solutions to End-user & OEM/System Integrator community for their diverse needs.
Leading single-source supplier & solution provider for industrial automation hardware and software solutions needed.
0 Comments