To obtain RSLogix 500, users typically download the free RSLogix Micro Starter Lite
version, which supports the MicroLogix 1000 and 1100 series. Full versions of RSLogix 500 for the SLC 500 and the entire MicroLogix family generally require a paid license. How to Download RSLogix 500 (Free Version) The software is hosted on the
Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC) Search for Software : Navigate to the PCDC and search for "RSLogix Micro" Select the Lite Version RSLogix Micro Starter Lite w/o RSLinx EN (often version 11.0 or 8.3). Essential Components
: To have a functional programming environment, you must download three specific packages: RSLogix Micro Starter Lite : The primary programming editor. RSLinx Classic Lite
: The communication driver required to connect the software to the PLC. RSLogix Emulate 500
: A simulator that allows you to run and test code without physical hardware. Account Registration : You will need to create a free Rockwell Automation account and sign in to finalize the download. Detailed Features of RSLogix 500
RSLogix 500: A Guide to Downloads, Versions, and Installation
RSLogix 500 remains a cornerstone in the industrial automation world for programming the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
and MicroLogix controller families. Whether you are a student looking for a free learning tool or an engineer maintaining legacy systems, understanding how to acquire and set up this software is essential. 1. Choosing the Right Version
Rockwell Automation offers several tiers of RSLogix 500 based on your hardware needs and budget:
RSLogix Micro Starter Lite (Free): This is a free version specifically for the MicroLogix 1000 and 1100 controllers. It is the go-to choice for beginners who want to learn ladder logic without a hefty investment.
RSLogix 500 Standard: This version supports the full range of SLC 500 and MicroLogix processors. It typically costs around $1,100 USD and requires a valid activation license. rslogix 500 download programming software
RSLogix 500 Professional: Includes advanced features like cross-referencing and online editing for larger, more complex industrial applications, with an MSRP of approximately $2,500 USD. 2. How to Download the Software To download RSLogix 500 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
, you must use the official Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC).
Search: In the PCDC, search for "RSLogix Micro" (for the free version) or " RSLogix 500 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
Select Version: Choose the latest available version (often v11.0 or higher) and click the download icon.
Account Access: You will need to sign in to your Rockwell Automation Account. If you don't have one, you can create a free account on their site.
Accept Terms: Agree to the licensing terms and choose "Direct Download" or "Managed Download" to begin the transfer. 3. Essential Companion Software A standalone installation of RSLogix 500
is often not enough to run or test a program. You will likely need these two additional tools:
RSLinx Classic Lite: This communication driver is required to allow your computer to "talk" to the PLC or the emulator.
RSLogix Emulate 500: If you do not have physical hardware, this software allows you to run and test your ladder logic in a virtual environment on your PC. 4. Installation and "Download" vs. "Upload"
Once downloaded, run the setup files as an administrator to ensure all drivers install correctly. In the world of PLCs, the terminology can be confusing: Download: Sending the program from your PC to the PLC.
Upload: Pulling the existing program from the PLC to your PC for backup or editing. To obtain RSLogix 500, users typically download the
For further technical support or to verify hardware compatibility, visit the Rockwell Automation Support Portal. RSLogix Micro Starter Lite: Download Instructions
RSLogix 500 is a legacy ladder logic programming software developed by Rockwell Automation for the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix families of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). While modern systems often use Studio 5000, RSLogix 500 remains vital for maintaining thousands of active industrial systems worldwide. Downloading RSLogix 500
The software is available through the Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC).
( 9324-RL0x ) RSLogix 500 supports the Allen ... - Release Note
RSLogix 500 remains a cornerstone for programming the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix families. While modern systems have moved toward Studio 5000, thousands of facilities still rely on this legacy software for maintenance and minor upgrades. 1. Choosing the Right Version for Your Needs
Before you start your download, it is critical to identify which version of RSLogix 500 you actually need, as costs and hardware compatibility vary significantly.
RSLogix Micro Starter Lite (Free): This is the ideal choice for students and hobbyists. It supports the MicroLogix 1000 and 1100 series exclusively.
RSLogix Micro Starter/Developer (Paid): These intermediate versions support the full MicroLogix family (1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, and 1500) but do not support SLC 500 modular processors.
RSLogix 500 Standard/Professional (Paid): These high-end versions are required for any SLC 500 modular systems (e.g., 5/03, 5/04, 5/05). Professional licenses can cost upwards of $7,600. 2. How to Download RSLogix 500 Software
All official downloads are hosted on the Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC). For the Free Version (Starter Lite):
Rockwell often changes the search path, but these steps are currently the most reliable for finding the free "Starter Lite" version: RSLogix Micro Starter Lite: Download Instructions Download & Installation Experience
RSLogix 500 is the legacy programming software used for Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix controller families. While the full professional version requires a paid license and serial number, a free "Lite" version is available for specific MicroLogix models. Software Versions & Free Options
Rockwell Automation provides different tiers of the software depending on your hardware needs:
RSLogix 500 Professional/Standard: Supports the full range of SLC 500 and MicroLogix processors. Requires a paid license and serial number.
RSLogix Micro Starter Lite (Free): A limited, no-cost version specifically for MicroLogix 1000 and 1100 controllers. It is frequently used by students and beginners to learn ladder logic. Download Instructions
Downloads are hosted on the Rockwell Automation Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC).
Allen-Bradley RSLogix Micro Starter Lite: How to Get it for Free
Here’s a solid, unbiased review of the RSLogix 500 programming software, focusing on its role, usability, and where to get it (since it's no longer sold as a standalone new product).
| Source | Cost | Includes SLC 500? | |--------|------|------------------| | Rockwell PCDC (with contract) | Free to license holders | Yes | | RSLogix Micro Starter Lite (Rockwell website) | Free | No (MicroLogix 1100/1400 only) | | Rockwell Legacy Software DVD (eBay, risky) | Varies | Yes (no support) | | Rockwell Toolkit subscription | ~$300–800/yr | Yes |
If your company already has licensed RSLogix 500, you can run it inside a Windows 7 or 10 VM. That avoids host OS compatibility issues.
Introduction: The Enduring Legacy of RSLogix 500
In the world of industrial automation, few platforms are as iconic and widely deployed as Allen‑Bradley’s PLC‑5, SLC‑500, and MicroLogix families. At the heart of programming these controllers lies RSLogix 500 – a ladder logic based integrated development environment (IDE) that has been the gold standard for machine control for nearly three decades.
Whether you are a seasoned controls engineer maintaining a legacy production line, a student learning PLC programming, or a maintenance technician troubleshooting a conveyor system, understanding how to obtain, download, and install RSLogix 500 programming software is essential.
This article provides everything you need to know: from software editions and system requirements to legal download sources, installation steps, and modern alternatives.