Rslogix 500 81000 Cpr9 W Master Disk Exclusive File

If the .RSS file is stored on a network share, Windows file locking mechanisms may hold a residual lock on the file even after the previous session ended, triggering the "Exclusive" error.

| Component | Requirement | |-----------|-------------| | OS | Windows 2000 SP4, Windows XP SP2 (32-bit) | | CPU | Pentium III 500 MHz+ | | RAM | 256 MB minimum (512 MB recommended) | | HDD | 500 MB free | | Drive | Floppy or CD-ROM (for master disk install) | | Display | 1024×768, 16-bit color |

Note: May run on Windows 7 32-bit with compatibility mode, but the master disk exclusive check can fail due to driver changes.

If the above steps fail, a system reboot is required to flush memory-resident file handles held by Windows or RSLinx services that are not releasing the "Master Disk" status.

  • Make full backups

  • Insert or verify master disk

  • Request exclusive/master ownership in RSLogix 500

  • Confirm prompts: the controller will switch to exclusive mode; other programming terminals lose download rights until released.
  • Verify exclusive status

  • Perform changes and download

  • Release master/exclusive ownership

  • Verify other stations can regain normal access.
  • Troubleshooting

  • RSLogix 500 81000 CPR9 w Master Disk Exclusive is a discontinued, hardware‑locked version of Rockwell Automation’s legacy PLC programming software. It was a robust, stable tool for SLC 500 and MicroLogix controllers in its time, but today it is obsolete, unsupported, and challenging to run on modern computers. Its primary remaining value is for maintaining legacy equipment where a change in software version is not permitted by internal validation processes. Any user still relying on this package should plan a migration to a newer RSLogix 500 edition or a modern PLC platform.


    This write‑up is for informational purposes. Always verify compatibility and licensing with Rockwell Automation or an authorized distributor before attempting to install or operate legacy software.

    The RSLogix 500 (81000 CPR9 w Master Disk Exclusive) refers to a specific legacy licensing and software package from Rockwell Automation used to program Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix PLC families.

    This version belongs to a period of transition between the older EVRSI (Master Disk) activation method and the modern FactoryTalk Activation system. Key Components of the Package

    RSLogix 500 (81000 Series): This is the core software used for ladder logic development. The "81000" often appears in specific catalog or bundle identifiers for standard or professional editions.

    CPR9 (Common Platform Release 9): A specific version of the Rockwell Automation software platform that ensures compatibility and integration between different software products like RSLinx and FactoryTalk Services.

    Master Disk Exclusive: This signifies that the software's license is stored on a physical floppy disk or specialized media. rslogix 500 81000 cpr9 w master disk exclusive

    EVMOVE Activation: The license must be "moved" from the master disk to the computer's hard drive to run the software without the disk present.

    Transferability: The license can only exist on one machine at a time but can be moved back to the disk or transferred between PCs using the Move Activation utility. Why This Version Matters

    This blog post focuses on RSLogix 500 version 8.10.00 , a pivotal release in Rockwell Automation's software history. It was the first version to introduce support for the MicroLogix 1400

    series and represented the final transition away from legacy EVRSI (Master Disk) activation in favour of modern FactoryTalk Activation

    The Legacy of RSLogix 500 v8.10: Bridging the Master Disk and MicroLogix 1400

    In the world of industrial automation, certain software versions mark a turning point. RSLogix 500 version 8.10.00 (CPR9)

    is one of those milestones. For engineers maintaining SLC 500 and MicroLogix systems, this release was more than just a patch—it was a bridge between the legacy era of floppy-disk activations and the modern era of digital licensing. 1. The End of the "Master Disk" Era For years, Rockwell Software relied on EVRSI activation

    , often managed via a physical "Master Disk" (floppy disk) containing a hidden activation file. Version 8.10 was the last release to officially support this method. Legacy Flexibility : While it supported the Master Disk, it also fully adopted FactoryTalk Activation

    , allowing users to migrate their licenses to more reliable digital formats. The Transition

    : This version allowed teams to keep their legacy hardware running while preparing their workstations for the eventual sunset of floppy drives. 2. Enter the MicroLogix 1400

    The most significant functional enhancement in v8.10 was the introduction of support for the MicroLogix 1400 Series A

    controller. This expanded the capabilities of the MicroLogix family with: Enhanced Instruction Sets

    : Support for advanced math and trigonometric instructions like Expanded Communication : Added support for Modbus RTU Master DNP3 Slave

    protocols, making the MicroLogix 1400 a powerhouse for remote telemetry and SCADA integration. Integrated LCD

    : Support for editing the controller's integrated LCD display directly through the software. 3. Operating System Compatibility

    Released during the transition from Windows XP to Vista, v8.10 was specifically engineered to be Vista-compatible . It required RSLinx Classic v2.53

    or later to function correctly on newer operating systems, which was a critical update for maintenance laptops of that time. 4. Key Performance Enhancements If the

    Version 8.10 (CPR9) wasn't just about new hardware; it resolved several long-standing "bugs" that plagued earlier versions: Communication Stability

    : Fixed issues where communication paths were being erased during project saves. Data Integrity

    : Resolved anomalies where Modbus MSG configurations were lost during ladder file copies. Improved Diagnostics

    : Added more robust online help and troubleshooting tools to help engineers identify scan-time overflows and I/O errors. Summary: Why v8.10 Still Matters Even as industrial systems move toward Studio 5000 Logix Designer

    , RSLogix 500 v8.10 remains a "gold standard" for those working with heritage systems. It provides the necessary tools to maintain the robust MicroLogix

    platforms while offering a stable environment for transitionary licensing.

    Are you still using legacy Master Disks for your PLC activations, or have you made the full switch to FactoryTalk? RSLogix 500 8.10 | PDF | Windows Vista - Scribd

    Troubleshooting RSLogix 500 Legacy Licensing: The "Master Disk Exclusive" Era

    If you’ve stumbled upon a copy of RSLogix 500 8.10.00 (CPR9)—specifically the version noted as "w/ Master Disk Exclusive"—you are likely dealing with a piece of industrial automation history. This specific version represents a transitional period in Rockwell Automation's history where software began shifting from physical floppy disk "Master Disk" activations to modern, internet-based digital activations. What is RSLogix 500 CPR9?

    RSLogix 500 is the standard ladder logic programming software for the Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix families of PLCs. The "CPR9" tag refers to Coordinated Product Release 9, a specific milestone where Rockwell synced versioning across multiple software products like RSLogix 5000 and FactoryTalk Services Platform. The "Master Disk Exclusive" Confusion

    In the world of legacy Rockwell software, "Master Disk Exclusive" typically refers to the EVMOVE or EVRSI activation method.

    Physical Activation: This version often required a physical "Master Diskette" (floppy disk) to transfer the license onto your computer’s hard drive.

    The Transition: Version 8.10 was one of the last versions to lean heavily on this older method before the industry moved toward FactoryTalk Activation, which uses digital files bound to your computer's MAC address or a hardware dongle. Key Compatibility & Specifications

    If you are attempting to install this version today, keep these technical requirements in mind:

    Operating Systems: CPR9 era software was originally designed for Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7. Running it on Windows 10 or 11 usually requires a Virtual Machine (VM).

    Associated Software: It typically requires RSLinx Classic (v2.53 or later) for communication and often includes FactoryTalk Services Platform (v2.74 or similar).

    Hardware Support: This version supports the full range of SLC 500 and MicroLogix (1000, 1100, 1200, 1400, 1500) controllers. Should You Still Use This Version? Make full backups

    While version 8.10 is robust, Rockwell has since released RSLogix 500 v12.00, which offers better compatibility with modern 64-bit operating systems.

    ( 9324-RL0x ) RSLogix 500 supports the Allen ... - Release Note

    Release Note. Release Notes. ( 9324-RL0x ) RSLogix 500 supports the Allen-Bradley SLC™ 500 and MicroLogix™ families of processors. Rockwell Automation RSLogix 500 Micro Starter, Developer and Lite

    RSLogix 500 (CPR9) is a legacy industrial software used to program Allen-Bradley SLC 500 and MicroLogix controllers. The "Master Disk" requirement refers to the old-school physical media activation method used before Rockwell moved to the digital FactoryTalk Activation system. Key Technical Details Version: CPR9 (Coordinated Product Release 9).

    Compatibility: Designed for Windows XP and Windows 7 (32-bit).

    Hardware: Supports SLC 5/01 through 5/05 and all MicroLogix.

    Activation: Requires a physical 3.5" floppy disk (Master Disk) or a .vmd virtual image of one. The Evolution of Activation

    Early versions of RSLogix 500 used EVMOVE or Moveware. This process physically moved an "activation bit" from the Master Disk to your computer's hard drive. Risk: If your hard drive crashed, the activation was lost.

    Solution: Rockwell eventually transitioned these licenses to FactoryTalk Activation, which uses digital files linked to your MAC address or a USB dongle. Modern Workarounds

    If you are trying to run this specific vintage version today: Virtual Machines: Use VMware to run Windows XP.

    Floppy Emulators: Modern PCs lack floppy drives; you may need a USB floppy drive or an .ima disk image tool.

    Legacy Tool: Check for the EVMOVE.EXE utility in your software folder to transfer the license. 💡 Pro-Tip

    If you have a valid serial number but a dead Master Disk, you can often contact Rockwell Automation Support. They frequently convert these "Legacy" activations into modern FactoryTalk digital licenses for free, provided you can prove ownership. If you'd like, let me know: Do you have the physical floppy disk, or What Operating System are you trying to install this on?


    The mention of the "Master Disk" is the most important part of this listing for a new buyer.

    If you are looking at this specific item—RSLogix 500 81000 CPR9 with Master Disk—you are likely dealing with one of two scenarios: you are maintaining an older facility that refuses to upgrade, or you are a system integrator who needs to support clients with legacy hardware.

    The "81000" catalog number refers to the standard RSLogix 500 package. The "CPR9" designation indicates the release version (Release 9), which was a significant milestone in the software's lifecycle, offering improved stability and Windows compatibility over earlier versions (like CPR7 or CPR8). The "Master Disk" refers to the physical media and license activation mechanism, which is a critical detail for installation.

    This phrase is the most critical. Master Disk refers to the original distribution medium—typically a set of 3.5‑inch floppy disks or, later, a single factory‑burned CD‑ROM. The term Exclusive means this was not a retail shrink‑wrapped copy but rather a controlled, non‑transferable master intended for:

    An “Exclusive Master Disk” often contains the full unlocked installer without needing an activation disk or serial number challenge during installation. It may also include proprietary add‑ons not found in standard versions, such as custom AOIs (Add‑On Instructions) or pre‑configured drivers for specialized communication cards (e.g., 1747‑PIC).