I'll start myself, comparing AB Micrologix 1500 to Mitsubishi FX1N.
Hardware.
Both are single unit expandable PLCs.
The hardware is very similar by price with more I/O extensions, but the FX1N tends to be less expensive for less I/O numbers, especially without extension.
Maximum number of I/O is 255 for FX1N and 156 for ML1500.
The advantage of ML1500 transistor main unit is several relay outputs, while the FX1N main unit is homogenous by the outputs type.
The FX1N main unit inputs are configured as sink/source all at once, while the ML1500 inputs are grouped in several groups.
The largest main unit of ML1500 is 28I/O.
The largest main unit of FX1N is 60I/O.
The ML1500 largest extension modules are: for ML1500- 16I/O each, FX1N- only 8I/O each.
FX1N exists in AC powered version.
Also, FX1N of any type features a built-in stabilized 24VDC/600mA service power supply. With AC powered PLC this may eliminate a separate power supply for small project.
The FX1N has an inexpensive option of the programming port duplicator card, which allows the PC to be connected without disconnecting the MMI unit, if any.
FX1N high-speed outputs are isolated and may be used as sinking or sourcing each.
Both models feature two analog setting potentiometers on the main unit.
The special modules choise looks little wider for FX1N.
Expect the FX1N with extension modules to occupy more rail than ML1500 when extended over ~128 I/O.
Programming and sofware.
The programming software convenience is strictly individual, but the Mitsubishi software is less expensive and not copy protected.
Even the legacy DOS software may be used for FX1N programming.
The Mitsubishi software does not require additional communication driver to communicate with standalone PLC, while for the Allen Bradley you need the RSLinx installed and configured.
Mitsubishi programming cable is expensive, but I suggested a link to the inexpensive replacement in one of my posts on this forum.
ML1500 has NO online programming or editing- a big inconvenience during debugging!
FX1N may be programmed online except for interrupts.
The ML1500 has bigger choise of internal devices (T,C,B)and their quantity is virtually unlimited (limited only by the PLC memory), all the devices may maintain their status with power off.
The FX1N has limited quantity of each type device, each timer resolution is predetermined.
Only part of the FX1N devices maintain the status with power off.
On another hand, FX1N features 32-bit counters, lacking in ML1500, and almost any instruction may be defined as 32-bit.
ML1500 instruction set looks wider for sophisticated math calculations.
6 high-speed inputs may be assigned to interrupts on FX1N versus 4 on ML1500.
Both feature 2 high-speed outputs (frequency pulse train or PWM each), but FX1N allows more control over the frequency pulse train, like direct frequency change on the fly.
Unlike the ML1500, the FX1N has no forces that can override the program execution- any device may be directly written online; it will be, however, processed according to the program logics and may be altered by the program at any time.
FX1N outputs may be altered online when the PLC is not running, unlike the ML1500.
Well, enough for the beginning.
Correct me if I forgot to mention something important.
And ask questions about FX1N, if any.
Best regards