Why PLCs are preferred over microcontrollers in the automation industry?

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a control system that is used for controlling input and output from various devices. It saves human resources, money and time. Explicitly designed for automated industrial works, it is both flexible and affordable.

As compact integrated circuit, microcontrollers run a particular operation in an embedded system. Also, they compact integrated circuit, microcontrollers run a specific process in an integrated system. Also, they are used in automobiles, peripherals, appliances, and telephones. So, why are PLC control panels still preferred over microcontrollers in the automation industry? Asking this question is the same as asking why the desktop is preferred over a microprocessor. Well, here are a few reasons that will make you free from all of your doubts related to PLC and microcontrollers.

Modular Design: to suit the customer requirements during the post-implementation phase, the capacity and design of a programmable logic controller can be easily modified. It is not possible with microcontroller based solutions.

Safety: PLC engineers offer safety features like SIL certification for protection/emergency shutdown system.

High capacity: Nowadays, PLCs are the combination of analog and digital. For ease of control, they are maintained through a central engineering station.

Highly convenient: PLCs in the engineering field, are used for industrial power systems. It can maintain a responsive interface with a vast number of drives and actuators. The interface of a programmable logic controller can also be easily altered through I/O modules and by configuring them correctly.

Diagnostic features: built-in diagnostics for power failure, logic issues, LAN failure, disconnection of I/Os and alarms are also reasons for PLC’s popularity in the automation industry.

Conclusion

PLCs are the choice of all automation engineers. The reasons listed above explain why PLC is preferred over microcontrollers in the automation industry.