Combine your application knowledge with the world-class variable speed drives

The application program runs on top of the drive’s standard drive firmware. This enables the seamless implementation of custom control algorithms in addition to the standard drive functionality, access to the drive peripheral I/O and customization of the drive user interface.

Drive application programming is accomplished with the ABB Drive Application Builder tool and is based on the well-known IEC 61131-3 standard. This standard makes it possible to start program development with minimal training and to transfer customized programs to other platforms.

Key benefits

Reduced system complexity & cost

Embed the control logic with IEC programming directly into the drive rather than relying on a separate PLC. This means fewer hardware components to purchase, wire and maintain — reducing system cost and

Familiar IEC 61131-3 programming standard

Programming supports the IEC 61131-3 languages (LD, FBD, ST), so engineers who already work in PLC programming can be up to speed quickly.

Custom, intelligent drive applications

Build custom control algorithms, access drive peripheral I/O, add user parameters/events into the drive interface, and enable drive-to-drive communication and edge data collection.

Future-proof & scalable engineering environment

Target tool for drive IEC programming integrates in Automation Builder environment and supports efficient project handling,librairies, simulation and maintenance.

Technical features

The application program runs on top of the drive’s standard drive firmware. This enables the seamless implementation of custom control algorithms in addition to the standard drive functionality.

IEC 61131-3 Standard Programming Environment

Drive Application Builder uses the international IEC 61131-3 standard, allowing users to program drives using familiar PLC languages such as Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, and Function Block Diagram. This ensures compatibility with Automation Builder and a smooth learning curve for automation engineers.

Integrated Drive Interface and System Libraries

The software provides a Drive Interface that enables direct mapping between the drive firmware and user-created applications. It also includes ABB system function libraries for drive-to-drive communication, I/O access, and system services, expanding functionality beyond standard firmware capabilities.

Task Configuration and Scheduling

Users can create multiple execution tasks (e.g., cyclic or initialization tasks) with customizable time intervals. This feature allows fine control of application performance, execution order, and CPU resource management within the drive, ensuring deterministic control behavior.

Retain Variables and Memory Management

Supports retain variables that preserve values through drive reboots and warm resets. These are stored in the drive’s flash memory, ensuring critical data like counters or configuration parameters remain available after power loss. Clear guidance is provided for safe memory use and optimization.

Application Loading and Boot Management

With the Create Boot Application function, users can store programs in the drive’s non-volatile memory, making them persist through power cycles. It also supports creating offline application loading packages (.lp files) for distribution and firmware version control — a key feature for scalable deployment across multiple drive.

Library and Licensing Management

Drive Application Builder includes a Library Manager that allows importing, versioning, and protecting compiled function block libraries. It supports licensing for securing intellectual property in compiled projects, essential for OEMs and system integrators.

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