For the first time in a decade, Rockwell Automation has released a new generation of ControlLogix controllers. The ControlLogix 5590 (L9) series delivers major improvements over the ControlLogix 5580 (L8), offering faster performance, more memory, expanded safety capabilities, and modernized hardware. In this article, automation and software specialist Hammam Mukhtar compares the ControlLogix 5590 vs. 5580 and highlights what’s new in the L9 controller.

ControlLogix L9 vs. L8: What's New and Why it Matters

Performance: How the ControlLogix L9 Delivers 2× the Capability of the L8

Putting it simply, the ControlLogix 5590 controller delivers 2× the performance of the 5580, offering faster processing, double the memory, and significantly expanded motion and networking capacity.

Memory: More Flexibility and Clearer Part Number Identification

ControlLogix 5590 PLCs have double the memory of the L8 controllers. The L9 controller has an 80 MB maximum rather than the L8’s 40 MB max. It is easier to identify the L9’s memory size because the memory is visible in the part number. For example, a 1756-L980 controller has 80 MB of memory.

Faster Redundant Controller Scan Times with the ControlLogix L9

The front Ethernet ports of the L8 controller are not available while in redundancy mode. The ControlLogix 5590 controller has a new function that allows the front gigabit Ethernet ports to be used for crossloading (only) of the controller/application data. The new ControlLogix L9 controllers achieve nearly 2× faster scan times in redundant applications, a major advantage for customers upgrading from the L8 generation.

NOTE: 1756-RM3 still required for bumpless controller switch over.

Built-In SIL2 Safety and Unified Process Control

The ControlLogix 5590 is SIL2 rated out of the box. You can enable it where you need safety and disable it where you don’t. Unlike the ControlLogix 5580, which required separate controllers for process and safety, the ControlLogix 5590 integrates SIL2‑capable safety directly into the platform. This unified approach simplifies panel design and reduces overall system cost.

Unifying process and safety control into one controller simplifies panel design and streamlines control strategy.

Modernized Hardware and Connectivity Features on the L9 Controller

Hardware has changed a lot in the last decade, and the physical features of the ControlLogix 5590 have evolved. These are some of the new design features:

• A vertical lift door covers the mode switch, SD card, USB connections and specifications.
• The ControlLogix 5590 hardware has been completely modernized, including a new toggle-style mode switch, USB‑C connectivity, and a protective vertical lift door containing a QR code that links directly to manuals, software, and support resources.
• The L9 has USB type C connections instead of the USB type B connections on the L8.
• The L9 comes preloaded with an 8GB micro-SD card rather than a standard SD card.
• Lifting the vertical door reveals a QR code with access to user manuals, Digital Product Passport, tech support, Knowledgebase tech notes and more.

Cost vs. Performance: Why the L9 Delivers More for a Minimal Price Increase

Getting double the performance doesn’t mean double the cost. The ControlLogix 5590 offers more memory for only 5% extra cost. The memory increase ranges from 2 MB to 10 MB depending on the model number.

The L902 provides an affordable entry point to the ControlLogix 5590 platform, while the high‑end L980 handles complex applications that previously exceeded the capabilities of the 5580 series. With only about a 5% price increase, the L9 line delivers unmatched performance-per-dollar.

Ready to Upgrade to the ControlLogix L9 PLC?

Are you planning to upgrade from the ControlLogix 5580 to the 5590? Here are your next steps.

• Watch the video to get the full breakdown and see the physical features of the L9.
• Reach out to your Van Meter account manager with questions or help determining which L9 controller will work best for your application.
• Follow Van Meter on LinkedIn for more product introductions.
• Discover more of Rockwell Automation’s newest products and solutions.