Free tool helps to design and troubleshoot micro control systems
28 October 2025 
Rockwell Automation has launched a free design tool for its Micro800 micro control systems. The FactoryTalk Design Workbench (version 1) provides a unified workspace for programming, configuring and troubleshooting the controllers.
The software gives machine-builders and manufacturers working on compact, standalone systems, a consistent, efficient way to develop automation systems. Rockwell says that companies working in areas such as packaging, the water industry and material-handling, often face long development cycles, fragmented tools and limited flexibility. The new software streamlines the process from programming to deployment, while supporting multiple devices simultaneously to simplify system management.
The software offers multi-device support for Rockwell’s Micro810 and newer Micro800 Lx0E controllers, allowing easy access to multiple controllers at the same time to simplify troubleshooting. It is also claimed to improve download speeds and online workflows.
“FactoryTalk Design Workbench software is our next-generation design environment for micro control systems, delivering a productive, more reliable and familiar experience for users of Rockwell Automation products,” says Rockwell product manager, Wan Shan Loo,. “Customers have asked for something intuitive and easy-to-use, and FactoryTalk Design Workbench software delivers. With support for Micro800 controllers and a scalable architecture, it simplifies workflows and lays the foundation for broader device integration in the future.”
The software is available from Rockwell’s Product Compatibility & Downloads Center (PCDC). Future versions are planned to expand support beyond the Micro800 controllers.
