NXTGEN VS AX controllers

hello , i am new to roboteq and intersted in buying several controllers of brushed type at different current rating and i have couple of questions :
1- what is the new thing in nxtgen that separates them from ax controllers , for example what i would expect if i get MDC2250 instead of ax3500 ??
is there any change in the power section / protection /archeticture ??
2- does the higher current models and the low current models in the nxtgen class like HDC2450 and SDC2130 have similar power architecture protection safety ?? or the high end models are better protected and designed for more robust operation . assuming each is driving a motor suitable for its power rating .

thanks in advance

Regarding the AX family line.

The AX family line is a mature product line, that is still in production but not recommended for new designs.

The new generation controllers like the MDC2230 come with many new features. For starters the PC interface program that is used to talk to the controller. The Roborun+ offers micro basic scripting, allowing users to write scripts that will handle various different functions, tasks, or data gathering.

Firmware gets updated regularly. Easily upgradeable through either the comport or usb dependent upon controller used.

All of the new generation controllers also can interface with the MGS sensor that can be used for AGV activity.

Roborun+ Run tab, also allows for pc to be connected along with another device such as pulse radio or analog input to give commands in real time. Data gets logged, and the computer can report back queried data such as motor power, motor amps, speed, etc in the channels section of the Run tab. This data can also be saved to a text file so it can be analyzed for troubleshooting purposes.

Settings and configurations can be customized to users preference. Now users can prioritize the priorities in which the controller can/will respond to commands. Serial, pulse, and analog controls can be used without having to access the pc interface to make changes. Something the old gen did not have.

More available and customizable inputs such as digital, pulse, and analog. Some controllers such as the SDC21xx offer an interface to a dime-size Spektrum radio receiver.

Some controllers like the MDC2230 can be used with Can bus activity for controller networking. Available choices are Can Raw, Can Open, and Can Mini.
Please refer to User manual for more information.

Some controllers also have encoder functionality built in allowing for feedback control.

The AX3500 units had a an anodized board plate that sat under the Power mos. Unit still left exposed. All of the new generation brushed controllers are covered and housed in a case. Additional protection has been implemented such as a thermal pad that sits under the bottom side of pcb where power mos sit, and at also seated in a full anodized bottom plate.

The controllers also provide regenerative braking with use of the controllers digital out (1A output).

Each controller comes with different voltage capability ranges (30V, 50V, 60V) and VDC24xx/HDC24xx have a 72V version available. Options are more flexible to buyer/users needs.

Also some controllers that are available are modified from an existing controller with less features, so that if you want to use an MDC but don\'t need to utilize a usb port, can bus, or an encoder, you can get the LDC22xx for cheaper and still have the same power specs as needed for your motor application.

In terms of the hardware and architecture, many improvements and changes have been implemented for more reliability and functionality.

The controllers whether it is high current vs. a lower current model are the same in terms of being robust. Each of the power circuitry design and parts used are rated for the specified controller power specs.
Also, higher current product will run cooler at the same power than a smaller product and so it is always good to take a little larger than what is required by the application.