PLC, PAC and Dedicated Controllers

What is PLC? How does PLC work? PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller.

PLC is an industrial device developed to control and automate processes such as manufacturing or infrastructure. PLC systems can work with a variety of communication protocols such as conversion, data analysis, I/O connections, signal processing, linking, rendering, and more.

The system is fully programmable and secure by the user, at Edge Control PLC, PAC. And Schneider Electric's dedicated controllers are easy to program, configure, maintain and are ready for IIOT.

How does a PLC work?

PLC typically consists of three major components: the input/output (I/O) section, the processor, and the power supply. In simple terms, the input/output (I/O) section is where external devices such as sensors, switches, and touchscreens send signals to the PLC processor. The processor is the brain of the PLC, running pre-defined automation scripts to perform specific tasks. The logic in the automation scripts views the input signals as digital or analog data signals, and if certain criteria are met, the PLC processor sends commands to the outputs. The outputs might involve turning lights on or off, changing the speed of a motor via a variable speed drive, or activating a script to move a robotic arm.

Advantages of Using PLC

PLC can perform relay switching operations as well as other applications such as timing, counting, calculating, comparing and processing analog signals because the structure is built on the same principles as those used in computers.
PLC is compact and cheaper. Relays are still used in modern control systems, but they are rarely used for logic.
In PLC, designing and modifying the programming is easier than wiring the circuit. In PLC, the user program defines the relationship between the input and output instead of connecting the input and output.
The program can be downloaded to various PLCs immediately after writing and testing.
PLC can be connected to other controllers or computer devices. You can communicate using a variety of common communication protocols.

Modicon PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and PACs (Programmable Automation Controllers) control and monitor industrial operations in a sustainable, flexible, efficient and protected way. Our PLCs and PACs supply edge technology, augmenting it with Ethernet connectivity, built-in cybersecurity , and processing power needed to handle Big Data analysis and protect against new vulnerabilities among connected industrial assets , across devices or into the cloud.