L5X File Format — Studio 5000 Export
Open L5X Files
in Your Browser
After working with hundreds of L5X exports from production ControlLogix systems, we built this tool to view your programs without a Studio 5000 license. Upload your L5X file and instantly browse ladder logic, tags, and AI explanations.
- L5X is an XML-based export format from Studio 5000 that contains complete controller configuration, programs, routines, and tags.
- plc.company opens L5X files without Studio 5000, RSLogix, or any Rockwell Automation license installed.
- In our testing, L5X files parse in under 10 seconds for programs with 500+ routines.
- Perfect for code reviews, knowledge transfer, and sharing PLC logic with team members who don't have Studio 5000.
·Updated Apr 1, 2026·PLC Company Engineering
What You Can Do
Ladder Logic Viewer
See all rungs with color-coded instructions. Inputs, outputs, timers, counters — identified at a glance without opening Studio 5000.
Complete Tag Browser
Browse every tag with data types, descriptions, and UDT structures. Search and filter across controller-scoped and program-scoped tags.
AI-Powered Explanations
Get plain-English explanations of what each rung does. Useful for audits, knowledge transfer, and understanding unfamiliar code.
Cross-Reference & Signal Tracing
Find every location a tag is read or written across the entire project. Trace a signal from field device to output in seconds.
Program Structure Navigator
Browse tasks, programs, and routines in a tree. Understand how the project is organized before diving into logic.
Network Topology & I/O Map
View I/O modules, rack layout, catalog numbers, and point counts. See every device in the system without hardware access.
How to View L5X Files
Locate your L5X file
Export your ControlLogix or CompactLogix program from Studio 5000 in L5X format. The file extension will be .L5X.
Go to plc.company
Open your web browser and navigate to plc.company. No software installation or Studio 5000 license required.
Upload the L5X file
Drag and drop your L5X file onto the upload area, or click Browse to select it from your computer.
Explore your PLC program
Instantly view ladder logic, tags, routines, network topology, and cross-reference data for your L5X file.
Upload Your L5X File
Export from Studio 5000 Logix Designer — no license required to view
Drop your L5X file here
or browse to select
Questions
What is an L5X file?
An L5X file is an XML-based export format from Studio 5000 Logix Designer. It contains the complete PLC project including controller configuration, programs, routines, tags, user-defined types, and Add-On Instructions in a human-readable format.
How do I create an L5X file from Studio 5000?
In Studio 5000, go to File > Export and select 'Export Program' or 'Export Controller'. Choose L5X as the format. You can export the entire project or specific components like individual programs or Add-On Instructions.
Can I view L5X files without Studio 5000?
Yes! PLC Company lets you open and view L5X files directly in your browser without needing Studio 5000 installed. You can browse all programs, routines, tags, and get AI-powered explanations of ladder logic.
Which controllers support L5X files?
L5X files are supported by all Logix family controllers: ControlLogix (1756 series), CompactLogix (1769 series), and GuardLogix (safety controllers). The format works with all firmware versions that support Studio 5000.
What's the difference between L5X and ACD files?
L5X is an XML-based export format that's text-readable and great for version control. ACD is the native binary project format that contains additional information like online edits and pending changes. Both contain your full PLC program.
Is my L5X file secure when I upload it?
Yes. Your L5X file is encrypted in transit and processed on secure, isolated infrastructure. Parsed data is stored in your private account and is never shared with third parties. You can permanently delete your files at any time.
Pro plans are now available
Unlock unlimited file uploads, AI-powered analysis, and advanced PLC tools.