Introduction

The Allen-Bradley Micro850 series is known for its reliability, flexibility, and compact design, making it a popular choice for small to mid-sized industrial automation applications. As industries move toward digital transformation, Ethernet-based communication has become essential for achieving faster data exchange, seamless device integration, and real-time monitoring.
A common question that arises among automation professionals is: “Does the Allen-Bradley Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB PLC support Ethernet communication?”
The short answer is yes. This controller is equipped with an embedded EtherNet/IP port, allowing it to connect directly to Ethernet-based networks for control, data collection, and integration with HMIs, drives, and SCADA systems—ensuring efficient, modern, and connected operations.

Understanding the Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB Controller

The Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB belongs to Rockwell Automation’s Micro800 family, designed to deliver cost-effective control solutions for small to medium-scale automation systems. Despite its compact size, it offers powerful capabilities that make it suitable for standalone machines or distributed control systems.
Key features include:

• 14 digital inputs (120V AC) and 10 relay outputs for flexible I/O handling.
• 24V DC power operation, ensuring reliable performance in industrial settings.
• USB and serial ports, providing easy programming and connection to legacy equipment.

What makes this model stand out is the “L50E” designation—where the ‘E’ clearly signifies EtherNet/IP capability. This built-in Ethernet port allows the controller to communicate efficiently with other networked devices, making it a perfect fit for connected automation environments that demand speed, scalability, and interoperability.

Ethernet Communication Capabilities

In industrial automation, EtherNet/IP is one of the most widely used communication protocols. It enables real-time, high-speed data exchange between devices such as PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and drives. The Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB integrates this technology through its embedded Ethernet port, making network communication smooth and reliable.

This Ethernet functionality allows:

• Direct connection to SCADA and HMI systems for live data monitoring.
• Integration with PowerFlex drives and other Ethernet-enabled devices.
• Remote access and control, enabling engineers to monitor equipment from anywhere within the plant or even remotely.

The controller supports communication with up to eight Ethernet nodes, depending on the project setup. Additionally, it’s fully compatible with Connected Components Workbench (CCW) software, which simplifies setup, programming, and diagnostics.
Overall, the Ethernet connectivity enhances system flexibility, reduces wiring complexity, and ensures seamless interoperability across multiple industrial components.

Technical Advantages of Ethernet Integration

Integrating Ethernet into automation systems provides significant technical and operational advantages, and the Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB leverages this effectively.

Some of the key benefits include:

• High-speed data transfer: Improves system responsiveness, ensuring faster control and process feedback.
• Real-time monitoring: Enables predictive maintenance by providing instant alerts on equipment performance or anomalies.
• Simplified wiring: Reduces installation costs and time by eliminating complex point-to-point connections.
• Remote access: Engineers can troubleshoot, configure, and monitor systems without needing to be on-site.

With its Ethernet capabilities, the Micro850 supports Industry 4.0 and smart factory initiatives by enabling machine-to-machine communication and data-driven decision-making. It also supports firmware updates, which continually improve its Ethernet performance and add new features over time.
Compared to traditional serial communication, Ethernet offers far greater scalability, speed, and reliability—making it the preferred choice for modern automation networks.

Local SEO Services: Elevate Your Business Visibility in Local Search Results

Real-World Applications

The Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB is widely used in machine control, packaging systems, water treatment plants, and process automation—industries where Ethernet connectivity plays a key role.
For example:

• It allows multiple controllers to link seamlessly for coordinated control across machines.
• Real-time production data can be sent directly to SCADA dashboards for improved visibility and performance analysis.
• Maintenance teams can perform remote diagnostics, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

These applications demonstrate that the controller is purpose-built for networked industrial environments, offering both flexibility and connectivity to meet evolving automation demands.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Allen-Bradley Micro850 2080-L50E-24AWB fully supports Ethernet communication through its built-in EtherNet/IP port. This capability allows it to integrate effortlessly with modern control systems, SCADA, and connected devices, enhancing data exchange and system reliability.
With benefits such as faster integration, efficient communication, and cost-effective scalability, this controller empowers industries to adopt smart, connected automation. For any application that values real-time communication and flexibility, the 2080-L50E-24AWB stands out as a future-ready solution.

FAQs

1. What does the “L50E” in 2080-L50E-24AWB mean?

The “L50E” signifies Ethernet capability — the ‘E’ represents the embedded EtherNet/IP port used for high-speed industrial communication.

2. Can I connect the Micro850 controller to SCADA systems?

Yes, it seamlessly connects to SCADA and HMI platforms over EtherNet/IP for real-time monitoring and data control.

3. How many Ethernet devices can the controller connect to?

It can communicate with up to eight Ethernet nodes, depending on your system configuration and application requirements.

4. Which software is used for Ethernet setup?

The controller is programmed and configured using Connected Components Workbench (CCW) by Rockwell Automation.

5. Is the 2080-L50E-24AWB suitable for small automation systems?

Absolutely — it’s designed for compact, cost-effective applications, offering advanced Ethernet communication without high-end hardware costs.

Reach Us

Asteam Techno Solutions Pvt. Ltd. is AVEVA (Formerly Wonderware) Registered System Integrator providing sale/service/support and executing the HMI/SCADA, Historian/MES Solutions to End-user & OEM/System Integrator community for their diverse needs.

Leading single-source supplier & solution provider for industrial automation hardware and software solutions needed.

Preferred wholesale supplier, stockiest & exporter of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Drive (VFD), HMI, Panel PC, SCADA, Profibus Connector, Cable, and many more automation products.

We serve OEM, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, Petrochemicals, oil & gas, Panel manufacturers along with our process equipment. Also, we deliver services to Food processing OEM, electrical industries & mechanical industries with our special purpose process components.