Motion controller
Lenze c550 controller
High-end machine controller with an Intel Core i7 at 2.8 GHz running real-time Linux, EtherCAT master and slave, PROFINET device and gigabit Ethernet, battery-free and rated to 60 °C ambient.
Key specifications
| Temperature (max) | 60 °C |
|---|---|
| Fieldbus | EtherCAT master and slave, PROFINET IO-Device, 1000 Mbps Ethernet |
| Cpu | Intel Core i7, 2.8 GHz |
| Os | real-time Linux |
Summarised in our own words from Lenze SE's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Specify Motion is not affiliated with Lenze SE. Lenze and c550 controller are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with a Lenze part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 2 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
Slim 54 mm EtherCAT motion controller programmed in CODESYS, running up to 32 synchronised axes on a 1 ms cycle with RP20 I/O expansion.
View AK (AK8 / AK840) →CODESYS-based PLC/motion controller with EtherCAT for 8, 16 or 32 axes plus 6 local pulse axes, dual-core SOC+FPGA and 32-module R2 I/O expansion.
View MC500 (MC508CS / MC516CS / MC532CS) →Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a motion controller is
A motion controller plans and coordinates movement for one or more axes, sending position, velocity or torque commands to servo or stepper drives. It generates trajectories with defined acceleration and jerk, synchronises axes for interpolation, electronic gearing and camming, and handles homing, limits and registration inputs. Commands reach drives over pulse, analogue or, most commonly now, EtherCAT and other real-time networks. Many controllers also include PLC functions to IEC 61131-3, combining logic and motion.
When engineers choose a motion controller
Choose a dedicated motion controller when a machine needs coordinated multi-axis motion beyond basic point-to-point moves, such as robots, gantries, packaging and CNC. It gives deterministic timing and motion libraries. The trade-offs are cost, programming effort and ecosystem lock-in. For simple machines with a few independent axes, a PLC with motion function blocks or intelligent drives with stored moves may be enough.
How to specify the Lenze c550 controller
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right c550 controller variant or an equivalent:
- Number of axes and drives
- Network and cycle time (ms)
- Motion functions: interpolation, camming, robotics
- Programming environment and languages
- I/O and expansion
- HMI and connectivity
- Safety integration
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing a controller that does not support the drives' network
- Underestimating cycle time needs for many axes
- Ignoring programming tools and skills in the team
- Not planning for future axis count
Lenze c550 controller: frequently asked questions
What is the Lenze c550 controller?
High-end machine controller with an Intel Core i7 at 2.8 GHz running real-time Linux, EtherCAT master and slave, PROFINET device and gigabit Ethernet, battery-free and rated to 60 °C ambient. Published series figures include temperature 60 °C. It is made by Lenze SE; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the Lenze c550 controller?
The Lenze c550 controller is made by Lenze (Lenze SE) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with Lenze SE; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the temperature of the Lenze c550 controller?
The published series maximum temperature is 60 °C. Individual models and sizes in the c550 controller range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the Lenze c550 controller?
Yes. On published figures, Kinco AK (AK8 / AK840) and Leadshine MC500 (MC508CS / MC516CS / MC532CS) are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What is the difference between a motion controller and a PLC?
A PLC handles machine logic, sequencing and I/O. A motion controller specialises in trajectory planning and coordinating axes. Many modern controllers combine both, running PLC logic and motion libraries on one CPU. Choose based on axis count, motion complexity and timing requirements.
Why is EtherCAT common for motion control?
EtherCAT offers short cycle times, precise synchronisation using distributed clocks and simple cabling, which suit coordinated multi-axis motion. Many drives and I/O devices support it. Other real-time networks such as PROFINET IRT and Sercos are also used, so check what the drives and controller support.
Further reading: How to select a motion controller or plc · Controllers and PLCs
Other motion controller series
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