FactoryTalk: Download, Pricing & System Requirements
FactoryTalk View Studio is Rockwell Automation's 0-language PLC programming environment supporting ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix and more. Released 2007, latest update 2024-06.
In one minute
FactoryTalk is best for large-scale scada systems and multi-site monitoring and control. Dominant SCADA platform in North America for Rockwell installations. Adoption is very-high (70% market share) across North America and Latin America.
Capability profile
Six-axis score (0–100) based on pricing, learning curve, hardware support, adoption, community, and feature depth.
Key features
Pricing & licensing
| Tier | $$$ |
| Price range | USD 3 000 – 25 000 |
| Pricing model | subscription |
| Free trial | No |
| Educational discount | Yes |
Expensive SCADA/HMI solution. Pricing varies dramatically based on tag count and features. Often bundled with Studio 5000.
System requirements
| Operating systems | Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server |
| Minimum RAM | 8 GB |
| Recommended RAM | 16 GB |
| Disk space | 50 GB |
| Processor | Multi-core, high performance |
Requires powerful server for large installations. SQL Server often needed for data logging.
Supported hardware
PLC families
- • ControlLogix
- • CompactLogix
- • MicroLogix
- • PLC-5
- • SLC 500
Capabilities
- ✓ HMI integration
- ✓ SCADA integration
- ✓ Variable frequency drives
- ✗ Safety programming
- ✗ Motion control
- ✗ Robotics integration
Pros
- +Industry standard for Rockwell SCADA
- +Seamless integration with Studio 5000
- +Powerful alarming and trending
- +Centralized asset management
- +High job demand in North America
- +Extensive feature set
- +Good for enterprise-level systems
- +Strong support and documentation
Cons
- −Very expensive licensing
- −Complex to learn and master
- −Tag-based pricing can get costly
- −Resource-intensive
- −Primarily locked to Rockwell ecosystem
- −Subscription model adds ongoing costs
- −Overkill for small projects
- −Requires significant IT infrastructure
Best for
Compare FactoryTalk with…
Other Rockwell Automation software
Certifications & training
FactoryTalk View Specialist (Specialist). Cost tier: $$$.
Training providers: Rockwell Automation, Authorized partners.