Kinetix Servo Drives: Comparing Kinetix 5100, 5300, 5500, and 5700 for Industrial Automation
The Kinetix series of servo drives from Rockwell Automation provides high-performance motion control for a variety of industrial automation applications. Whether you need a cost-effective standalone solution or a high-power multi-axis control system, the Kinetix 5100, Kinetix 5300, Kinetix 5500, and Kinetix 5700 offer versatile, scalable, and efficient options to meet your needs.
This guide compares the four models to help you choose the right servo drive for your automation requirements.
Kinetix 5100 – Cost-Effective Motion Control for Small to Medium Applications
The Kinetix 5100 is designed for small to medium-sized automation systems, offering a flexible, standalone motion control solution. It provides safe and reliable performance with EtherNet/IP connectivity, programmable inputs, and auto-tuning capabilities.
Key Features:
- Power Range: 0.4 – 15.0 kW
- Voltage Compatibility: 120V/230V - 480V
- 10 Programmable Digital Inputs
- Safe Torque Off (STO) Function
- Dual EtherNet/IP Ports
- Auto-Tuning Feature
- Standalone or Integration with Micro800™ & Logix Systems
- 99 Indexing Functions for Positioning Control
- Programmed via Free KNX5100C Software
Best for:
✅ Small to medium applications
✅ Basic motion control with cost efficiency
✅ Standalone or simple automation systems
Kinetix 5300 – Compact and Efficient Motion Control for Small to Medium Applications
The Kinetix 5300 builds on the capabilities of the 5100 by adding CIP Motion support, improved safety, and network redundancy with DLR support. Its compact design makes it an ideal choice for space-constrained automation systems.
Key Features:
- Power Range: 0.4 – 14.7 kW
- Voltage Compatibility: 120V/230V - 480V
- Dual EtherNet/IP Ports
- Safe Torque Off (STO) Function
- Auto-Tuning for Optimal Performance
- Supports CIP Motion for Synchronized Control
- Supports MP and TL/Y Series Motors
- CIP Security for Industrial Network Protection
- Device Level Ring (DLR) Support for Network Redundancy
- Compatible with Ultra 3000 Motor Series
Best for:
✅ Small to medium applications requiring CIP Motion
✅ Compact automation solutions with network redundancy
✅ Applications needing precise motion control and real-time synchronization
Kinetix 5500 – Advanced Performance with CIP Motion & Shared DC Bus
The Kinetix 5500 is designed for medium-sized applications, offering advanced auto-tuning, shared DC bus technology, and improved safety. Its single-cable technology for VP motors simplifies wiring and reduces installation costs.
Key Features:
- Power Range: 0.3 – 14.6 kW
- Voltage Compatibility: 190 – 528 VAC (1 to 3-phase)
- Dual EtherNet/IP Ports
- CIP Motion for High-Precision Synchronization
- Safe Torque Off (STO) up to SIL3/PLe via Network
- Shared DC Bus for Energy Efficiency
- Advanced Auto-Tuning Features
- Single-Cable Technology for VP Motors (Reduces Wiring Complexity)
- Up to 50% Smaller Than Comparable Servo Drives
Best for:
✅ Medium-sized automation systems with synchronized motion
✅ Energy-efficient automation with a shared DC bus
✅ High-performance motion control with compact design
Kinetix 5700 – High-Power Multi-Axis Control for Complex Automation
The Kinetix 5700 is the most powerful and scalable servo drive in the Kinetix family, designed for large-scale, multi-axis applications and high-speed automation systems. It offers real-time debugging, integrated safety, and a common AC/DC bus for cost-efficient power distribution.
Key Features:
- Power Range: 1.6 – 60 kW
- Voltage Compatibility: 230V - 400V
- Single and Dual Axis Modules for Scalable Control
- Dual EtherNet/IP Ports for Seamless Networking
- Integrated Safety (STO, Timed Safe Stop 1, Monitored Safe Stop 1)
- CIP Safety over EtherNet/IP for Absolute Encoders
- Supports VP Motors with Single-Cable Technology
- Common AC/DC Bus for Reduced Hardware Costs
- Compact Design for Smaller Cabinets and Faster Installation
Best for:
✅ Large-scale, multi-axis automation systems
✅ High-speed, complex machines requiring precision motion control
✅ Advanced safety and CIP Safety integration
Comparison: Kinetix 5100 vs. Kinetix 5300 vs. Kinetix 5500 vs. Kinetix 5700
- If you need a cost-effective, standalone servo drive, the Kinetix 5100 is the best option.
- If you need compact design, CIP Motion support, and improved networking, the Kinetix 5300 is the ideal choice.
- For medium-sized automation systems needing energy efficiency and shared DC bus capabilities, the Kinetix 5500 is the right fit.
- For large-scale, multi-axis applications requiring high power, advanced safety, and real-time debugging, the Kinetix 5700 is the top choice.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Kinetix Servo Drive for Your Needs
Whether you're looking for a basic motion control solution or advanced multi-axis automation, the Kinetix 5100, 5300, 5500, and 5700 provide scalable and efficient options to enhance your industrial automation system.
Need help selecting the best Kinetix servo drive for your application? Contact us today!