Key benefits

Reduced commissioning time & risk

You can design, test and tune drive systems virtually before the real hardware is in place. This means fewer surprises on-site, fewer commissioning delays and a smoother start-up.

Offline parameterization & optimization

Drive parameters, motor/load models and system interactions can be tuned and validated offline, so when the actual equipment arrives you’re ready to go.

Improved system reliability & confidence

By using virtual twins/model-based simulation the full drive + motor + load system can be tested (including grid effects, loads, dynamics) – you catch issues early.

Support for training and continuous improvement

Virtual drives provide a safe, repeatable environment for training technicians, for validating new software/firmware versions and for future upgrades without risking real hardware.

Cost savings through reduced physical testing & downtime

Because much of the testing, tuning and validation happens in virtual mode, you save on hardware procurement, reduce on-site manpower/time, and accelerate project timelines.

Technical features

Add-on to Drive Composer pro tool (Offline configuration for ABB Drives and virtual drive for ACS880 primary)

Virtual Drive enhances Drive Composer Pro by enabling full offline configuration of ABB drives without requiring physical hardware. For ACS880 primary control program, engineers can prepare parameters, test logic, and validate setups remotely, reducing commissioning time and supporting parallel engineering.

Virtual Drive launch and configuration

The tool allows effortless creation and configuration of a virtual drive instance. Users can adjust firmware parameters, set control modes, and simulate different operating scenarios. This streamlined setup accelerates early engineering phases and reduces the need for lab equipment during initial design stages.

Drive running with Virtual motor and configurable mechanical loads

With its integrated virtual motor and adjustable mechanical load models, Virtual Drive makes it possible to run the drive application as if it were connected to real equipment. Users can simulate torque, inertia, friction, and load changes to validate control behavior before connecting a real motor or machine.

Dimensioning and verification of drive, motor and loads setup's

Virtual Drive enables quick dimensioning checks by verifying that the selected drive, motor, and load configuration match the application’s performance needs. Users can identify mismatches, overloads, acceleration issues, and thermal limits early—improving design accuracy and reducing costly on-site adjustments.

Drive tuning and testing with I/O console

The built-in I/O console allows virtual tuning of drive parameters such as speed loops, torque control, and ramp settings. Users can test I/O reactions, simulate field conditions, and validate drive behavior without energizing real equipment—enhancing safety and shortening commissioning cycles.

PLC interface test together with Automation Builder

Virtual Drive integrates seamlessly with Automation Builder, enabling complete PLC-to-drive interface testing using standard fieldbus communication. Engineers can verify signals, handshaking, command sequences, and safety interactions long before going on-site—resulting in fewer commissioning errors and faster start-ups.