The Emerson VersaMax Micro 40 is the performance-tier compact PLC in the VersaMax Micro family. With 24 DC inputs, 16 outputs, and 24K words of logic memory, it bridges the gap between simple relay-replacement PLCs and full-size modular controllers — adding motion commands, 100kHz high-speed counting, and online program editing that the entry-level Micro 14 and 23 lack.

What motion and high-speed capabilities does the Micro 40 add?

Four 100kHz 32-bit high-speed counters and four 65kHz 32-bit PWM/pulse-train outputs represent a significant step up from the 10kHz/16-bit counters on the Micro 14 and 23. Motion commands — Find Home, Go Home, Jog, Ramp, and Blended Move — enable basic servo and stepper positioning directly from the PLC without a dedicated motion module. These capabilities suit pick-and-place actuators, indexing conveyors, and simple X-Y tables where a standalone motion controller would be excessive.

What development and connectivity features does it offer?

The Micro 40 is the first model in the Micro family to support online program editing (Firmware 3.9+, Hardware Rev B+) — logic changes can be downloaded while the controller runs, avoiding production stoppages. The second communication port can be factory-configured for RS-232, RS-485, USB, or Ethernet, providing flexibility for HMI and SCADA integration. A real-time clock with battery-backed RAM and 32K words of data storage support recipe handling and data logging. Like all Micro controllers, the Micro 40 accepts up to four expansion modules and carries Modbus RTU, SNP, and serial I/O protocol support.