Rockwell Automation Unveils FactoryTalk Design Workbench
Rockwell Automation, a global leader in industrial automation, has recently introduced FactoryTalk® Design Workbench™, a free software tool that aims to revolutionize the design of compact micro control systems. Launched on October 28, 2025, this innovative tool primarily supports the Micro800™ controllers and promises to significantly enhance programming efficiency.
Streamlined Design Process
FactoryTalk Design Workbench is specifically tailored for machine builders and industry professionals working on compact and standalone systems. Users often encounter long development cycles, fragmented tools, and rigid flexibility in their workflows. The new software seeks to address these challenges by providing a streamlined process from programming to deployment, all while allowing for simultaneous management of multiple devices. This capability is especially beneficial in industries such as packaging, water treatment, agriculture, and material handling.
Key Features of the Software
The initial version of FactoryTalk Design Workbench boasts several noteworthy features:
- - Modern Design Environment: The software offers a contemporary design interface that integrates Logix functionalities for a swifter integration process.
- - Enhanced Download Speed: Users can expect improved online workflow and download speeds, which lead to higher productivity.
- - Multi-Device Support: It supports both the Micro810® and the latest Micro800 Lx0E controllers, enabling easy and simultaneous access to multiple devices, thus simplifying troubleshooting processes.
Wan Shan Loo, a product manager at Rockwell Automation, highlighted the significance of this tool: "The FactoryTalk Design Workbench establishes our next-gen design environment for micro control systems. It affords a productive, reliable, and familiar experience for Rockwell Automation users. Customers have been asking for a more intuitive and user-friendly solution, and this software meets that demand. With Micro800 support and a scalable architecture, it simplifies workflows and lays the groundwork for broader device integration in the future."
Accessibility and Future Updates
The FactoryTalk Design Workbench is now available through Rockwell's Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC). Upcoming versions are anticipated to extend device support beyond Micro800, with annual updates planned to continually enhance its functionalities.
For those interested in exploring the new software firsthand, Rockwell Automation will be showcasing it at the Automation Fair®, scheduled to take place at McCormick Place in Chicago from November 17 to 20. Attendees can engage with the tool through hands-on technical sessions.
To learn more about FactoryTalk Design Workbench, visit Rockwell Automation's official website, where additional resources and information about upcoming updates will be accessible. This release marks a significant advancement in the automation landscape, promising to facilitate smarter and faster control system designs.