What Is A PLC

Originally developed in the late 1960s a PLC, Programmable Logic Control or Programmable Logic Controller is an industrial solid state computer which has been ruggedized for use in industrial automation processes and associated harsh working environments. The PLC monitors both inputs and outputs, I/O, and based on the information it receives from the connected input devices, the PLC then makes logic based decisions triggering outputs, replacing the need for relays, timers and sequencers.

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A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) consists in simple terms of six main components, power supply, rack, Central Processing Unit (CPU) , I/O input/output sensors and external programming device. Combined these create PLCs that range from single standalone units, often referred to a ‘bricks’ up to fully networked multi PLC rack systems often incorporating both digital and analogue I/O devices.

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Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) are used in many of today’s automated process driven industries providing reliable control and monitoring of complex machines, plant and equipment and can provide interaction with other machines and operators.

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With their rugged built to last nature and design to withstand harsh working environments PLCs are often forgotten as they can provide years of reliable fault free stable operation. Due to the out of sight out of mind confidence that a good PLC system provides it is important to have an expert on hand when the unexpected does occur or when it's simply time to upgrade