Baumüller will show the b maXX drivePLC at SPS 2026 in Nuremberg: a control unit that sits inside the servo drive and runs PLC logic, motion control and technology functions there instead of in a separate controller. The platform targets machine builders who want tightly synchronised axes and a modular machine architecture without adding fieldbus load.
Control logic moved into the servo drive
The b maXX drivePLC executes the application directly in the drive, in real-time controller cycles that can go as low as 250 µs. Because commands no longer have to travel from a central PLC to each axis and back, communication overhead drops and the fieldbus carries less traffic. Baumüller links this to faster response times, higher control accuracy and more precise motion sequences, which in turn lift machine output.
The concept is not new for the Nuremberg company, which has offered drive-integrated controllers for years. What changes with this generation is the emphasis on an open, Linux-based runtime and on compliance with the EU Cyber Resilience Act (CRA).
Key features
- PLC, motion control and technology functions executed inside the servo drive
- Controller cycle times down to 250 µs
- Works as an EtherCAT Main Device to coordinate further drives and automation components
- Communication via OPC UA, MQTT, EtherCAT and Ethernet
- Several fieldbus interfaces for integration with third-party controllers
- Linux-based runtime for customised applications and additional software functions
- Developed to current industrial security requirements to help machine builders meet CRA obligations
Modular machines and drive clusters
The clearest benefit appears in modular machine design. Each module can carry its own b maXX drivePLC and behave as a self-contained, intelligent sub-unit. Teams can program, test and pre-commission a module on its own before it is joined to the rest of the line, which shortens commissioning on site and reduces time-to-market.
For larger sections, one drivePLC acting as EtherCAT Main Device can group other drives and I/O into a cluster and handle the functions that belong to that module locally. This allows the architecture to scale from a single axis to complete machine sections. Where a central controller from another vendor is specified, the unit can still be integrated over the supported fieldbus protocols.
Connectivity and cybersecurity
With OPC UA and MQTT on board, the drive-level controller can exchange data with line controllers, MES layers and cloud services without an extra gateway. The Linux runtime leaves room for custom software. On the security side, Baumüller positions the platform as a way for OEMs to prepare for the Cyber Resilience Act, which sets security requirements for connected products placed on the EU market.
Why it matters for engineers
Decentralised control is attractive for OEMs building machines from repeatable modules, such as packaging, printing, textile or handling equipment. Putting the program next to the power stage reduces the dependency on a single central PLC and on fieldbus cycle times for synchronised motion. The trade-off is that control code is distributed over several devices, so a clear module structure and versioning strategy become important. Programmers already working with Baumüller’s earlier IoT ProConnect and drive solutions shown at SPS 2025 will find the drivePLC a logical next step.
Where to see it
The b maXX drivePLC will be on display at SPS – Smart Production Solutions, 24–26 November 2026, NürnbergMesse, Hall 1, booth 560. Technical details are available on the official b maXX drivePLC product page, and Baumüller summarises its approach to the regulation on its Cyber Resilience Act information page.
More news from the manufacturer is collected in our Baumüller product news section, and further exhibitor previews in our SPS news coverage.