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by Hallie Forcinio, Contributing Editor   | Abstract: | PLCs are no longer just control tools. Today's faster, more powerful units have moved into the realm of data gathering, and their reception is growing. |
Today's programmable logic controllers (PLCs) answer to many descriptions: smaller, smarter, faster, more flexible, expandable, scalable, lower cost, highly reliable. Units ranging from simple to sophisticated address virtually any control need a manufacturer might have. Increasingly they are also being called on to serve as data-gathering devices, while at the same time, suppliers are expanding communications capabilities and improving migration paths. As their capabilities increase, their availability also grows. Lower price points and compact sizes make it possible to install PLCs on machines and lines where it was previously impractical. In many cases, PLCs are replacing standard controls like relays. "PLC actuation means less point-to-point wiring," explains Tim Roberts, product manager at Schneider Electric (Palatine, IL). [Click to continue] |