CompactLogix 5380

Overview

The Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 5380 (catalog 5069-L3xxERM) is Rockwell Automation's mid-performance PLC in the Logix5000 family, introduced in 2017 as the successor to the 5370 series. It occupies the sweet spot between the entry-level Micro870 and the rack-based ControlLogix 5580, targeting machine builders, OEMs, and plant engineers who need powerful single-chassis control without the footprint of a full-size rack.

A defining characteristic of the 5380 is its dual embedded EtherNet/IP ports with a built-in linear/ring topology DLR (Device Level Ring) switch. This allows field devices to be wired in a ring for media redundancy without an external switch, eliminating a potential single point of failure. Both ports share a single IP address but can be configured with separate subnets for network segmentation.

Programming uses Studio 5000 Logix Designer, Rockwell's flagship engineering tool. The Logix5000 instruction set is consistent across all Logix controllers — logic written for a CompactLogix can be imported directly into a ControlLogix or vice versa — reducing re-engineering when scaling a machine. Supported IEC 61131-3 languages include Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, and Sequential Function Chart.

Key Features

• Dual EtherNet/IP with DLR support

  Two embedded 10/100 Mbps EtherNet/IP ports with an internal DLR switch allow device-level ring topologies without external hardware. Ring recovery time is under 3 ms, providing high-availability device networks on the machine floor.
• Integrated Kinetix motion (CIP Motion)

  CIP Motion over EtherNet/IP enables synchronised servo drives without a dedicated motion bus. Up to 16 axes (5380 models) with sub-millisecond position loop closure, compatible with Kinetix 5500 and 5700 servo drives.
• GuardLogix safety variant (5069-L3xxERMS3)

  The GuardLogix version adds SIL 3 / PLe safety in the same chassis, executing both standard and safety tasks. Safety I/O connects via CIP Safety over EtherNet/IP — no separate safety bus required, simplifying wiring and engineering overhead.
• Produced/Consumed tags for peer-to-peer

  Logix controllers can share data blocks directly as produced (publisher) or consumed (subscriber) tags without polling or messaging overhead. Up to 100 Mbps EtherNet/IP connections make this suitable for co-ordinating multiple CompactLogix controllers on a machine line.
• Add-On Instructions (AOI)

  Rockwell's proprietary encapsulation of reusable logic — similar to IEC 61131-3 Function Blocks but with additional features including local tags, inout parameters, and automatic documentation. AOI libraries can be versioned and distributed across projects, significantly reducing development time for repeat machine types.

Technical Specifications

Typical Applications

The CompactLogix 5380 is the reference PLC for mid-range machine building in North America and is widely found in automotive, food & beverage, life sciences, and material handling applications. Its EtherNet/IP-native architecture integrates seamlessly with Rockwell's PowerFlex drives, Kinetix servos, Point I/O remote racks, and PanelView HMIs through a single network.

• Packaging machines: CIP Motion servo control for film drive, registration, and cut-off axes
• Assembly lines: DLR ring connecting vision cameras, bar-code readers, and smart devices
• Pharmaceutical filling: GuardLogix variant with CIP Safety I/O for guarding and E-stop
• HVAC plant rooms: EtherNet/IP with PowerFlex 525 drives and Point I/O for building services
• Conveyor systems: Produced/consumed tags linking multiple CompactLogix zones