Overview

Freelance Engineering is the integrated engineering tool for the Freelance DCS, enabling both offline and online configuration of all Freelance controllers and operator stations. 

 

Freelance Engineering supports all five IEC 61131-3 programming languages - Function Block Diagram (FBD), Instruction List (IL), Ladder Diagram (LD), Sequential Function Chart (SFC), and Structured Text (ST) - giving your team the flexibility to use familiar, standardized tools.

 

Save weeks of programming time with Freelance Engineering's comprehensive library of 200+ pre-built, industry-proven function blocks. Each function block has been tested in thousands of real-world installations, ensuring reliability from day one. These blocks come with ready to use defaults, you just specify the name and optimize later.

 

Freelance Engineering has built-in support for intelligent field device configuration; it easily supports built-in Asset Management. 
 
Our latest version gives you improved filtering and sorting tools. The Function Block Diagram editor now supports automatic routing connections. You can now protect your entire project by backing it up to an SD Card directly from the controller. This means your complete application consisting of operator process graphics, control logic, and device settings are all safely saved in one place. Works on both AC 700F and AC 900F controllers.

Benefits

One tool for everything

<p>Configure automation, operator screens, and device&nbsp;parameters&nbsp;all in one place.</p>

Industry-standard editors

<p>Built to meet global automation standards, so your programs are reliable and compatible.</p>

220+ ready-to-use functions

<p>Get more done faster with a proven library of building blocks.</p>

200+ graphic symbols

<p>Create professional operator screens quickly with a rich symbol library.</p>

Clear project structure

<p>Organize your programs logically so anyone can understand your setup.</p>

Built-in verification

<p>Catch issues before they happen with easy testing tools&nbsp;and controller emulator.</p>

Find things fast

<p>Search for variables and connections instantly across your entire project.</p>

Auto-generated documentation

<p>Your programs, communications, and device settings are documented automatically&nbsp;–&nbsp;no extra work .</p>

Works on your PC

<p>Runs smoothly on Windows 10 and Windows 11, demo mode allows for&nbsp;100 days&nbsp;trial without license.</p>

Protect your work

<p>Backup your entire project safely and restore it anytime, all in one file.</p>

Freelance QuickStart Tutorial

Process Automation Training / DCS engineering guide

Technical Data

Your project tree gives you a complete overview of your entire setup. All your configuration data is laid out clearly, so you can find and manage everything in one place.

Choose the coding method that works best for you:

  • Function Block Diagrams – Visual programming with building blocks

  • Ladder Diagrams – Familiar logic for traditional automation

  • Instruction Lists – Direct command-line programming

  • Sequential Charts – Step-by-step process flows

  • Structured Text – High-level programming language

Design your entire system visually without complexity. You can: 

  • Map your controllers and operator stations, on a diagram 
  • Connect fieldbus lines and configure communications 
  • Assign channels and modules with simple dropdown menus 
  • Set up everything with just a few clicks—no complicated coding needed 

Find out more

Freelance operations

If you're looking for the perfect operational fit, the Freelance DCS supports several HMI solutions. Between Freelance operations (formerly DigiVis), 800xA operations and Generic OPC, take a look to see what suits your needs. Or, read on to learn more about our offerings.

Controllers & I/Os

Build a compact, easy-to-engineer, and reliable DCS platform. From the PLC-like AC700F for small applications to the powerful AC900F series for more demanding processes, all controllers support redundant networking without extra complexity or special hardware.

Common applications

Power generation, Oil and gas, Chemical, Life sciences, Water, Food and beverage, Metals, Mining, Cement, Pulp and paper

Services

My control system

Manage all your control products and systems in one location.

Service agreements

Get the perfect service agreement for your system.

Training

Become an expert in Freelance systems with our training courses in engineering, operation or maintenance.

Spares and consumables

Guarantee functionality of your installation by using ABB authorized new parts, refurbished and exchange spare parts, as well as repair and inventory services.

Repairs 

Keep your DCS running at the level you expect with our repair and troubleshooting support services.

Extensions, upgrades and retrofits

Evolve your DCS system and continually improve with our extensions, upgrades and retrofit services. 

Engineering and consulting

Identify opportunities and solutions to improve your system with our consultancy or engineering assistance.

Advanced services

Uncover issues that limit current system performance with our additional reports and services.