// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Programmable Logic Controller
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a specialized industrial computer that monitors input devices and makes decisions based on a programmed logic to control output devices, commonly used in factory automation.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is an industrial digital computer that automates electromechanical processes by continuously monitoring input states from sensors and executing a user-defined program to control output devices like motors, valves, and actuators, forming the backbone of factory automation and SCADA systems.
BACKGROUND
A programmable logic controller (PLC) or programmable controller is an industrial computer that has been ruggedized and adapted for the control of manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, machines, robotic devices, or any activity that requires high reliability, ease of programming, and process fault diagnosis.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Industrial controller
- logic controller
- automation controller
USAGE NOTE
PLCs are robust and reliable, making them ideal for harsh industrial environments.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Programmable Logic Controller.
A German multinational conglomerate and a leading manufacturer of PLCs. Their SIMATIC family of controllers, including the S7-1200 and S7-1500 series, are among the most widely used in industrial automation globally.
An American provider of industrial automation solutions. Their Allen-Bradley brand is a market leader, particularly in North America, with its ControlLogix and CompactLogix families of Programmable Automation Controllers (PACs) and PLCs.
A French multinational company specializing in digital automation and energy management. They are credited with inventing the first PLC under their Modicon brand, which continues to be a major product line with controllers like the Modicon M580.
A Japanese multinational electronics and electrical equipment manufacturer. Their MELSEC (Mitsubishi Electric Sequence Controller) series, including the iQ-F and iQ-R lines, holds a significant market share, especially in Asia.
A Japanese electronics company with a strong focus on automation. Their SYSMAC (System for Machine Automation Control) platform includes a wide range of PLCs and machine automation controllers used in various industries.
A Swiss-Swedish multinational corporation specializing in robotics, power, and automation technology. Their AC500 series is a scalable PLC platform used for controlling a wide range of automation applications.
A German company that specializes in PC-based control technology. Their TwinCAT automation software suite enables standard PCs to function as powerful real-time controllers with PLC, motion control, and HMI functionality.
An American multinational corporation that develops automation solutions. Through their acquisition of GE's Intelligent Platforms, they offer the PACSystems line of controllers, which are advanced PLCs for machine and process control.
A Japanese company that develops and manufactures automation sensors, vision systems, and PLCs. Their KV Series of PLCs is known for its high performance and integrated features for factory automation.