FactoryTalk Design Workbench – a new software tool from Rockwell for faster and smarter construction of control systems

FactoryTalk Design Workbench – a new software tool from Rockwell for faster and smarter construction of control systems

The global leader in industrial automation Rockwell Automation announced the launch of a new free software tool for design and configuration, which makes the process of building machine control systems based on the iconic Micro800 controllers much faster and smarter.

The FactoryTalk Design Workbench platform simplifies the programming and setup of controllers from the popular range, providing a unified environment and further facilitating troubleshooting. The first version (Version 1) of the software is now available for download from the manufacturer’s website, revealed specifically for Automation-Bulgaria.com by Rotek, which has been an official partner and distributor of Rockwell in our country for 25 years.

Synchronized processes – from programming to implementation

Many companies in the sectors of packaging, drinking and wastewater treatment, agriculture, storage and materials processing and other industries traditionally face limited flexibility, long development cycles and fragmentation of available design tools, according to Rockwell Automation.

FactoryTalk Design Workbench is a specially developed platform for the Micro800 family, which provides manufacturers of compact stand-alone machines and systems with a consistent and efficient tool for reliably designing automation solutions.

The new freely available software synchronizes processes from programming to implementation, providing simultaneous support for multiple controllers and facilitating system management. Among the advantages of the next-generation platform is a modern and intuitive interface, as well as its belonging to the extensive FactoryTalk product ecosystem.

This provides users with a familiar and similar experience to using the Logix module. Design Workbench impresses with a modern scalable architecture and consistent workflows that optimize programming efficiency.

This provides users with a familiar and similar experience to using the Logix module. Design Workbench impresses with a modern scalable architecture and consistent workflows that optimize programming efficiency.

Key features and benefits in the first version of the tool:

• Modern virtual design environment with an intuitive and familiar interface for even easier and faster entry;
• Improved program download speed and online workflows for higher efficiency;
• Multi-device support (valid for Micro810 controllers and newer Micro800 Lx0E controllers) – easy simultaneous access to more controllers and simplified troubleshooting;
• Class 1 connectivity to PowerFlex 520 and Kinetix 5100 series drives;
• Unified user experience thanks to a common view and organization, design work screens, programming instructions and shortcuts;
• Powerful free tool for creating, uploading and downloading programs – faster and more consistently thanks to the established workflow format and familiar interface;
• Compatibility with other 64-bit software on the same computer;
• Easy migration from Connected Components Workbench and Micro800 programs (versions 22 and 23), minimizing conversion risk;
• Local language support: French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Spanish;
• Support for various programming languages: LD (Ladder Diagram), ST (Structured Text) and FBD (Function Block Diagram).

It is expected that in future versions, support for controllers from the Rockwell range will be expanded with new series, as well as the platform will be updated annually. The innovative software is a key highlight in the program of the Rockwell Automation Fair event, which runs from November 17 to 20 2025 in Chicago.