Modicon includes compact machine controllers and modular process controllers. The controller model determines the engineering software: Machine Expert and its Basic variant serve different machine controllers, while Control Expert serves the process PACs shown here. Compare the ranges and check the tool required by the exact model.
Check the model before choosing the software. Compact M2xx controllers use the appropriate machine-engineering tool. For supported models, that is EcoStruxure Machine Expert with its CODESYS-based environment; the entry model uses the separate Basic tool. The modular M340/M580 process PACs are programmed in EcoStruxure Control Expert instead. Their projects belong to that engineering environment, so a common vendor name does not make the tools interchangeable.
🟢 Machine line includes M221 · M241 · M251 · M262 controllers for compact logic & motion applications. Select the model for the machine, then check whether it uses EcoStruxure Machine Expert or the separate Basic variant rather than assuming the whole range uses the CODESYS-based tool.
🔵 Process line includes the M340 PAC & M580 ePAC. Modular controllers for process & infrastructure. Hot Standby is available on suitable configurations within this range. Engineering uses EcoStruxure Control Expert.
Select a controller to inspect the example application and its capabilities. Treat the diagrams as a range overview, then verify the software and hardware options for the exact controller you intend to use.
Source : se.com
The introductory panel separates the machine and process ranges. The detailed panel lists models and selection considerations. In both cases, check the exact controller's engineering tool and required capabilities instead of relying only on its family name.
The controller range narrows the choice of engineering software, but the machine range also includes a separate Basic tool.
Tool selection: check the controller reference and required programming software together. A controller from the same vendor can still require a different engineering environment, so resolve that choice before creating or moving the project.
Choose the required controller capabilities and engineering environment, then compare the models within the appropriate range.
Selection rule: For an OEM machine, compare the compact models and their I/O and motion requirements (M221→M262), including the required tool. For modular process or infrastructure control, compare M340 with M580 and check the Hot Standby option where redundancy is required.
Source : se.com
What makes the M580 an "ePAC", and what does it add over the M340?