Best Programmable Logic Controllers for 2020

Industrial plants and robotics need automation. To achieve this, various devices are used that simplify the interaction between the operator and the machine. However, not all controllers are capable of solving complex problems and can be operated in various conditions. Therefore, when choosing such a device, it is important to pay attention to each technical parameter. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" have prepared for you a rating of the best programmable logic controllers for 2020.

Purpose of the device

A PLC or programmable logic controller makes it possible to automate almost any process. The product is an electronic device that works in real time and does not require constant operator intervention.

The main feature of such models is long-term autonomy and the ability to function in all weather conditions (if the design allows it). In addition, the product does not require constant maintenance and tuning, which reduces downtime. Often equipment is used to control the sequence of the process, for this, the corresponding inputs and outputs are provided. Thus, the product automatically detects the state of the object and adjusts the correct operation.

The device consists of many parts, but the main element is a microprocessor, which collects all information received from the object, creates certain control commands, stores data and converts signals. The work is carried out in real time, which allows you to reduce the level of interference to a minimum.

Today, large-scale industries are gradually moving away from relay contact systems, since they have significant disadvantages:

• Low reliability;
• Requires timely service;
• Having open contacts;
• Impossibility to work in any conditions;
• Complicated setup.

PLCs are devoid of such disadvantages, which makes it easy to automate almost any local process. The efficiency of the equipment is still high, which increases reliability and correct sequence of operations.

The equipment is programmed in accordance with the world standard. To carry out this process, a specialized kit is used, for example CoDeSys. This option is the most preferable, since it includes 4 graphic and 2 text programming languages. Any user who has experience in this area can deal with them.

Design features

Today, there are dozens of models that differ in external design and programming method. However, the common components never change.

So the equipment consists of:

• Central microcircuit. The main purpose of the element is to control and regulate solutions, which allows achieving correct automation.
• To ensure that the process runs correctly and does not get lost, the equipment is equipped with non-volatile memory.
• A real-time clock is used to better track processes.
• The connection is carried out using special input and output interfaces.
• A special circuit designed to change the incoming voltage at the input and output.

Control can be centralized, when the input and output modules are installed in a special PLC basket, or distribution, in this case, special communication channels are used for the interaction of sensors and execution objects with a microprocessor.

External objects that are connected to the PLC receive information about the work. To reduce the error, measuring sensors are installed. The received information is stored in the device memory, where it is analyzed and converted. After completing these actions, special commands are created that are sent to the executive equipment and are executed there. This is the main advantage of programmable logic controllers, since they do not require operator intervention and do everything independently.

Work cycle

Regardless of the model, the duty cycle has four main components:

• Gathering information that goes to the product, this process is called polling inputs;
• Implementation of the specified program-algorithm;
• Signal transmission to executive objects;
• The PLC can analyze the received information in order to visualize it later.

Thanks to this solution, a constant collection of information is provided in real time and without direct control by the operator.

Varieties and characteristics

Most programmable logic controllers have three inputs:

• Discrete;
• Analog;
• Special.

The discrete input is capable of processing only one signal. The average power does not exceed 24 W, and the maximum current is 10 mA.

The analog input only accepts the corresponding signal. It makes it possible to track the current position of an object in space, temperature, frequency and pressure.

In areas where continuous pulse counting is required, a special signal is used. Also, thanks to him, you can fix the fronts.

In addition to the connection method, devices are divided into:

• Modular. The device is a set of modules designed to perform specific operations.
• Monoblock. The product is equipped with a certain number of inputs and outputs and cannot be changed.
• Switchgears. The model has several modules that can be placed at a great distance.

Application area

Previously, such devices were used only in industrial plants. Today there are two groups - universal and specialized. In the first case, it is allowed to use the PLC in various fields, including housing and communal services or in the arrangement of public buildings. The second group is focused on the implementation of specific goals, so the area of ​​use is narrowly focused. For example, a specialized PL controller can be installed in systems that reduce the flow of reactive electrical energy.

Today most of the enterprises prefer universal models. Since the product makes it possible to fully automate various processes, and also allows you to monitor the work of executive objects.

The universal PLC is installed:

• For the implementation of industrial automation. The device receives and analyzes the received signals, after which it monitors information from the sensors and performs actions that were specified by the operator at the beginning of work.
• In robotics, new generation controllers are being installed that increase the execution of cyclical operations and complex algorithms.
• For home automation equipment. Installing a PLC makes it possible to save resources and allows you to control some processes without the intervention of the owner.

Programmable logic controllers are actively used on conveyor lines.The equipment simplifies the control of the sequence of operations, and the sensors prevent rejects from entering the finished product, which significantly increases the accuracy and reduces the human factor.

PLC advantages

Many enterprises located in developed countries provide an opportunity to free a person from performing complex and routine processes. Thanks to this solution, the speed of work increases, and the chance of the formation of defective products is reduced. In addition, the equipment does not need lunch breaks and can operate continuously for weeks. Each operation is performed exactly with the technological process, which avoids unforeseen circumstances. This is only part of the advantages of a PLC, the equipment is also capable of:

• Monitor or operate individual electrical installations. Everything is limited only by the number of inputs and outputs. So the operator can create conditions under which several technical machines or robots are automated at once.
• High accuracy of information processing and adherence to one algorithm.
• Works under all conditions and does not require interruptions. As a result, people no longer have to work in areas that are hazardous to their health, which makes it possible to reduce the risk of cancer and prevent injury.
• A light programming language is used for configuration, so the process does not take much time.

Rating of the best controllers up to 15,000 rubles

TDM PLC12A230 with 230V display

A reliable device from a Chinese manufacturer that will help automate small technological processes. The housing is made of plastic that can withstand high combustion temperatures and does not emit toxic odors.

The mark is created in accordance with government standards and will not be erased. The main advantage of this model is a completely Russified menu, which greatly simplifies the search for the desired function or the creation of an algorithm. For added convenience, there is a real time clock.

The program supports interaction with 320 blocks, which is also a positive result. The device memory is non-volatile, therefore, if a power failure occurs, the entire set algorithm is saved.

The average price is 10,000 rubles.

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Segnetics Pixel

A high-quality device that is popular at some Russian enterprises. First of all, the product is focused on the automation of engineering systems, which eliminates the possibility of errors and allows continuous monitoring over a long period.

The design reliability is at the highest level, which makes it possible to use the product for a long period without replacement. Input voltage - 24 V. Warranty - 36 months.

The average price is 10 800 rubles.

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MCX06D Danfoss 080G0115

Reliable programmable controller that can work with various systems. The case is made of durable plastic that can withstand high temperatures and does not deteriorate over time. Suitable for industrial applications. The power consumption is 6 W.

The average price is 12,500 rubles.

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PLC rating of the middle price segment

Segnetics Trim5

A quality device that is ahead of many models in the middle price segment in terms of technical characteristics.The product was developed by Russian engineers, therefore, all the nuances that operators often encountered when setting up were taken into account.

The body is made of durable material that does not wear out or deform due to mechanical stress. For control, a touchscreen display that supports multi-touch is used. The volume of the built-in storage is 2 GB, which makes it possible to store most of the information.

The write speed is 2000 IOPS, with random access, while the read speed is 5000 IOPS. Working temperature 0 ... 50 degrees. Supported interfaces are Ethernet, RS485, USB, Wi-Fi.

Sold at a price of 21,800 rubles.

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OWEN PLC 100 24.R-L

The model is designed for installation in various areas, including utilities or production lines. The number of digital inputs is 8, which makes it possible to connect several executive objects. There is an individual galvanic isolation of the inputs. The body is made of non-combustible plastic. Protection degree - IP20. Therefore, it is forbidden to use the product in places with high humidity, otherwise there is a possibility of a short circuit

The average price is 15,500 rubles.

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Bolide M3000-T Insat

The product is perfect for creating an automated control system for technological devices, which is used in various fields. Programming is carried out thanks to its own software. The product can be used at various temperatures. Power is supplied from the network. Operates on Linux operating system. Average service life is 12 years. The body is made of plastic. The mass of the device is 500 grams.

Sold at a price of 17,000 rubles.

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Rating of the best premium solutions

Siemens EM 241

An expensive device that can operate for a long period without interruption. Standard languages ​​are used for programming, so an experienced user does not have to learn new ones.

There is a function of sending SMS to phones or pagers. The control is carried out by means of a personal computer, which is located at a considerable distance. The main feature of the device is the ability to mount on a DIN rail. 8 LED indicators allow you to monitor the current status of the equipment. Power consumption - 2.1 W.

Sold at a price of 45,000 rubles.

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ARIES PLC160 [М02]

An updated line of PLCs suitable for the automation of medium-sized systems. Analog and digital inputs / outputs are supported. Monoblock design. Speed ​​inputs are used to process encoders, which significantly reduces time and increases productivity.

With this device, the operator can control the control of the frequency converter. The processor frequency is 400 MHz, the volume of non-volatile memory is 6 MB, which is enough for storing algorithms. It can work on mobile networks.

The average price is 34,000 rubles.

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Siemens SIMATIC TD 200 / TD 200C

An excellent high-end model that will make automation affordable. A special display is used to display information. The Russian menu is supported, which greatly simplifies the use of the product. 9 membrane keys are used for control. The degree of protection of the front panel is IP65, which makes it possible to use the device in various industries.

The average price is 30,000 rubles.

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Finally

Programmable logic controllers allow for proper resource allocation. The equipment is used in almost every area and has proven itself only on the positive side. If you have experience using the models described in the rating, or more interesting representatives, tell us about it in the comments.