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Top 5 Versatile PLCs for Control Panels and Automation

  • DelaControl
  • Sep 4, 2025
  • 3 min read

Compact controllers have evolved well beyond simple relay replacement. Today, mid-tier PLCs pack high-performance CPUs, motion control, advanced networking, and secure communication into small footprints. This article compares five of the most versatile options on the market, often forming the backbone of modern control panels and machine automation projects:


  • Siemens S7-1200 G2

  • Rockwell Micro870

  • Omron NX1P2

  • Schneider Modicon M241

  • WAGO PFC200


We will cover their CPU performance, memory, communication options, and market positioning, while also considering practical aspects such as ease of PLC programming, suitability for PLC upgrade projects, and how they fit into wider control panel design.


Siemens S7-1200 G2


Performance & CPUThe G2 generation is built for fast, deterministic control. Cycle times are low enough for synchronised motion, and integrated technology objects make single- and multi-axis motion programming straightforward.


Memory


  • Program/data memory in the hundreds of kilobytes.

  • 8 MB load memory with retentive memory for critical data.

  • NFC access for quick diagnostics without powering the PLC.


Communications


  • Dual-port PROFINET with IRT (Isochronous Real Time) for synchronised motion.

  • Integrated Modbus TCP/IP, web server, and secure communication (IEC 62443-4-2).

  • Expansion modules for PROFIBUS, AS-i, and serial protocols.


Positioning


Compact PLC for machines requiring motion control, high-speed Ethernet networking, and tight TIA Portal integration. A strong candidate when planning a PLC replace project in existing Siemens-based control panels.

Siemens S7-1200 G2

Rockwell Micro870


Performance & CPUThe Micro870 is the largest in the Micro800 family, sized for large standalone machines. It executes up to ~20k programme steps and supports Class-1 EtherNet/IP motion with compatible drives.


Memory


  • Programme capacity ~20k steps.

  • User data memory between 40–128 KB depending on project setup.


Communications


  • EtherNet/IP and Modbus TCP built in.

  • Serial support (DF1, Modbus RTU); DNP3 on certain models.

  • Expansion via Micro800 plug-ins and I/O modules.


Positioning


Best suited for North American applications standardised on Allen-Bradley, with ladder logic familiarity and FactoryTalk integration. Ideal for OEMs considering a PLC upgrade while keeping existing Allen-Bradley control panels.

Allen Bradley Micro870

Omron NX1P2


Performance & CPUThe NX1P2 delivers high-speed control in a compact design. It supports up to 8 axes of motion control via EtherCAT, with fast scan cycles suited to precise machinery. Integration with Omron’s Sysmac Studio environment simplifies programming and troubleshooting.


Memory


  • Up to 16 MB programme capacity.

  • Retentive memory for machine variables.

  • SD card slot for data logging and storage expansion.


Communications


  • Standard Ethernet/IP and EtherCAT for real-time motion and device networks.

  • Serial ports available on selected models.

  • Easy integration with Omron drives, HMIs, and safety systems.


Positioning


An excellent choice for OEMs and machine builders who need compact yet powerful PLCs. The NX1P2 is ideal for projects where PLC programming, motion, and networking must be tightly integrated, and it is widely used in PLC upgrade scenarios within Omron-based control panels.

Omron NX1P2

Schneider Modicon M241


Performance & CPUThe M241 delivers dual-core processing for embedded machine control. It balances performance with flexibility for OEM deployments.


Memory


  • 64 MB RAM.

  • 128 MB flash for programme backup.

  • SD slot for expandable storage.


Communications


  • Onboard Ethernet, USB, and two serial ports (RS-232/485).

  • Built-in CANopen master.

  • TM3 I/O expansion.


Positioning


A strong fit for OEMs using Schneider drives and HMIs, especially where serial and CANopen are common requirements. A cost-effective option for PLC replace projects when updating older Schneider control panels.

Schneider Modicon M241

WAGO PFC200


Performance & CPULinux-based controller running a CODESYS runtime. While not a high-speed motion PLC, it excels at protocol handling and data processing.


Memory


  • 512 MB RAM.

  • 4 GB flash, expandable with SD card (up to 32 GB).


Communications


  • Dual Ethernet ports.

  • Serial ports (RS-232/485).

  • Protocols: Modbus, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, OPC UA, MQTT, and more.

  • Expansion via WAGO 750/753 modular I/O.


Positioning


Favoured for IoT, energy, and building automation, and widely used as remote I/O or edge devices in larger systems. Its flexibility makes it a strong candidate for control panel integration during a PLC upgrade in energy and infrastructure projects.

Wago PFC200

Final Comparison — What Each PLC Is Best For


  • Siemens S7-1200 G2 → Best for compact machines that require precise motion control and real-time Ethernet (PROFINET IRT).

  • Rockwell Micro870 → Best for North American plants and OEMs where EtherNet/IP and ladder logic are standard.

  • Omron NX1P2 → Best for OEMs and builders needing fast motion, compact design, and strong integration with Omron systems.

  • Schneider M241 → Best for machine OEMs that need Ethernet, serial, and CANopen on-board in EcoStruxure environments.

  • WAGO PFC200 → Best for IoT, protocol-rich applications, energy, and building automation, or as flexible remote I/O.


When choosing between these platforms, consider not just raw specifications but also how easily they fit into your existing control panels, whether the project involves PLC programming from scratch, a PLC replace job, or a more comprehensive PLC upgrade strategy.

 
 
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