For a long time now, the VLT Micro Drive FC 51 has been one of the go-to solutions for compact, reliable motor control. Now though, Danfoss has just released a brand new product which takes things to the next level. It’s called the iC2 Micro – a smarter, more powerful drive that’s set to make the FC51 obsolete.

As one of Danfoss’ trusted UK stockists here at LED Controls, we’ve already started the process of gradually replacing our existing FC51 range on our website. Don’t worry though – it will still be available to order until June 2026 (when it will be finally phased out completely), so you’ve still got time.

However, if you are still using the FC51, we’d recommend that you make the switch to the iC2-Micro as soon as possible. As well as being more compact and powerful, it’s also fully compatible with the VLT® Micro Drive FC 51, so it’s quick and easy to retrofit.

You can find out more about the direct comparison between the FC51 and iC2-Micro on the official Danfoss assets, here – FC51 comparison with IC2-Micro. Alternatively, if you just need a quick primer, here are a couple of the top things you need to know!

The Danfoss IC2 in a nutshell

The Danfoss iC2-Micro is a next-generation compact drive designed to offer superior performance, reliability, and efficiency across a wide range of applications. With its particular focus on user-friendliness, the iC2-Micro delivers precise motor control, energy efficiency, and simplified commissioning.

With all the functionalities of a full-featured unit, it features an integrated control panel with an LED display, intuitive navigation buttons, and a built-in frequency setting potentiometer, which makes it particularly straightforward to sort out set up and operate. It’s also highly versatile and scalable, capable of easily being integrated into existing setups.

The drive is designed to withstand demanding environments with a working temperature of up to 120°F (about 49°C), natural cooling, and a coated PCB for added durability – so you can always rely on it to maintain peak performance even in the harshest or more intensive of industrial environments.

What’s more, its seamless integration with Danfoss’s MyDrive® Suite means that you can benefit from remote monitoring, real-time data insights, and predictive maintenance capabilities. With multiple voltage and power range options, the iC2-Micro is a flexible solution that can handle motors from 0.37 kW to 22 kW.

What are the main differences from the FC51?

As we’ve covered, the iC2-Micro is a like-for-like replacement for the FC51. Rather, it’s a major step forward in drive technology. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the key differences:

  • Enhanced motor control. The iC2-Micro supports open-loop torque control and permanent magnet motor operation. It’s a stark difference from the FC51, which it somewhat limited in these areas.
  • Improved reliability. With features like locked motor detection, an upgraded cooling system, and a coated PCB, the iC2-Micro performs better in demanding environments.
  • More compact and space-saving. The drive’s side-by-side mounting capability and reduced footprint make it a more efficient choice for space-conscious installations.
  • User-friendly interface. A new built-in control panel with clearer status indicators and an improved LED display helps to simplify commissioning and operation.
  • Better connectivity. The iC2-Micro is designed to work seamlessly with MyDrive® Suite for remote monitoring and diagnostics, effectively improving predictive maintenance options.
  • Easier installation. Spring-type I/O terminals can reduce wiring complexity, and application setup wizards are there to streamline configuration.

Why should you upgrade?

In short – because your competitors already will be. The iC2-Micro drive delivers more power, better efficiency, and smarter control, all while making your life easier with quick installation and intuitive operation.

As we’ve touched on above, it also brings open-loop torque control, improved cooling, and seamless integration with MyDrive® Suite, allowing for remote monitoring and predictive maintenance – all features that give you a real advantage.

It’s also more compact and space-saving, with side-by-side mounting and a reduced footprint. The built-in control panel has clearer status indicators, an improved LED display, and intuitive navigation buttons, making setup and operation simpler than ever. Plus, spring-type I/O terminals reduce wiring complexity, and application setup wizards streamline configuration, so you can be up and running in no time.

Essentially, it’s faster to install, easier to use, and built to perform better in demanding environments. And since it’s a direct successor to the FC51, it’s never been easier to retrofit a replacement. If you want better performance, easier control, and a system that’s future-proof – well, iC2-Micro is ready when you are.

That’s all the essentials covered! If you’re all ready to get started, you can explore Danfoss iC2-Micro drives for the very best prices right here on our website at LED Controls. Alternatively, if you’ve got any questions about the iC2-Micro, or you need any help or advice, that’s where our team can assist. Just give us a call on 01706 242 050, or email us on website@ledcontrols.co.uk. We’re always happy to help!