PLCs, PACs
Know your PLC programming audience
Programmable logic controller (PLC) code should never be a bottleneck when troubleshooting and should be designed to address the needs and knowledge of as many engineers as possible.
What IEC 61499 means for the PLC
The IEC 61499 international standard doesn’t signal the end for the programmable logic controller (PLC), but its impact, particularly in process control applications, will change how PLCs are used.
Structuring with IEC 61131-3: 7 steps to success
The IEC 61131-3 standard includes powerful structuring tools and can help provide users an excellent way to break a control system down into manageable units for greater overall effectiveness.
Top 5 Control Engineering articles June 21-27, 2021
Articles about PLC benefits, HMI and SCADA design, six calibration tips, process control systems and cybersecurity's past were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from June 21-27, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
The PLC remains stronger than ever
The programmable logic controller (PLC) has been declared dead many times, but it continues to thrive even in the Industry 4.0 era.
PLC coding practices document released
The Top 20 Secure PLC Coding Practices document aims to provide a list of coding practices for PLC programmers.
Three signs it might be time to upgrade a PLC
Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are designed to last a long time, but even they have a shelf life. Three tips for knowing when to upgrade are highlighted as well as a cautionary tale.
Top 5 Control Engineering Articles Jan. 25-31, 2021
Articles about top 5 VFD parameter changes explained, free PLC programming software for education, replacing seven SCADA systems with one, and more were Control Engineering’s five most clicked articles from Jan. 25-31, 2021. Miss something? You can catch up here.
PLC users can use cloud services without programming
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), machine builders and others can access a no-code Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) cloud platform, providing easy-to-use data analysis tools, other functionality for bottom-line improvements
Free PLC programming software for education
Available programmable logic controller (PLC) software that is free for users is crucial for users and students who can't currently access a lab. See table with a breakdown.
