Top 10 Advantages of PLC That You Must Know

Did you know that the market size of PLC is estimated to grow by 4% from 2023 to 2027? So, what has made it so popular? The reason is its wide range of advantages. The advantages of PLC have attracted many users, including world-class programmers who find it extremely useful.

This blog will walk you through the workings, functions, and roles of PLC. It will also descriptively talk about the advantages that it has to offer with a brief light on the disadvantages that come along with it.

What is PLC?

A programmable logic controller, or PLC, is a specialized computer program commonly used for manufacturing processes and industrial automation. They are specially designed to control and monitor the processes and machinery in real time. They are an essential part of large-scale industries as they make a lot of work easier and more efficient to handle

The main purpose of PLCs is to optimize industrial processes by providing an optimal way of conducting most operations. They offer several advantages, including flexibility, ease of programming, and scalability.

The PLC system is built of three fundamental components:

• CPU: It is the principal component of the PLC which controls the whole system by analyzing the input devices.
• Input/Output Section:  This component in a PLC is responsible for sending and receiving data to and from the CPU. It monitors the input devices like switches, buttons, proximity sensors, and sensing devices.
• Programming: This component in PLC has the work of linking the CPU cards and devices. It designs the input and output solutions, which make it function without any hindrances.

You can also enroll yourself in this online PLC programming course to get a better understanding of the subject. The next section will explain the PLC’s advantages and disadvantages in detail.

10 Advantages Of PLC

There are so many advantages that PLCs have to offer that make it popular among programmers. Listed below are some of these advantages.

1. Flexibility

PLCs allow for quick modifications and updates without the need for extensive rewiring or hardware changes, which makes them ideal for dynamic industrial environments. They are highly flexible and can easily be programmed and reprogrammed to adapt to changing requirements.

2. Reliability

PLCs have a high level of reliability and can operate continuously for extended periods without failure. They are designed for industrial applications and are built to withstand harsh conditions, like high temperatures, humidity, and electrical noise.

Also Read: Types of PLC

3. Scalability

PLCs can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate varying system sizes and complexity. Additional input and output modules can be added to expand the capabilities of the system without significant reconfiguration or disruption.

4. Real-Time Operation

PLCs are crucial for applications that require immediate actions, like safety systems or high-speed processes. They are capable of executing control tasks in real time and ensuring precise and timely responses to input signals.

5. Integration

PLCs can interface with various types of input and output signals, allowing for efficient control and monitoring of industrial processes. They offer seamless integration with a wide range of field devices, like sensors, and switches.

6. Diagnostics

PLCs provide extensive diagnostic capabilities, enabling operators to monitor system performance, identify faults, and troubleshoot issues quickly. The built-in diagnostic tools and error-handling mechanisms simplify maintenance and reduce downtime.

7. Programming

PLCs are supported by intuitive programming environments that facilitate the development and testing of control logic. Simulation tools allow engineers to verify the program’s behavior before implementing it in the actual system, reducing the risk of errors.

8. Cost Effective

PLCs eliminate the need for complex and expensive wiring, reduce installation time, and enable efficient use of resources. They offer a cost-effective solution for industrial automation compared to traditional hardwired control systems.

9. Communication Abilities

PLCs support various communication protocols by enabling seamless integration with other automation systems and enterprise-level networks. This facilitates data exchange, remote monitoring, and centralized control.

10. Safety Features

PLCs play a vital role in ensuring the safe operation of industrial processes and protecting personnel and equipment. They have built-in safety features and can be programmed to implement safety functions, like emergency stops, interlocking, and fault detection.

Also, know about the Applications of PLCs and why we need them

Disadvantages Of PLCs

The following are some of the disadvantages of PLC:

• The PLC programming can be complex occasionally, not all functions are easier to perform.
• It provides limited processing power.
• It is difficult to switch between brands because of a lack of standardization.
• The connectivity that it offers is not always smooth and that can be troublesome.
• The system is more open to vulnerabilities and cyber risks.

Functions Of PLC

A PLC is designed to withstand the tough conditions of an industry and to perform precise control functions with minimal errors. The following are some of its key functions:

• They are essentially used for memory optimization and have different types of memory for program storage, data storage, and system operation. The program memory stores the user-defined logic and instructions.
• They offer a broadly defined and descriptive scan cycle in which they perform specific functions in each cycle. The functions include input scan, program execution, output scan, and housekeeping.
• The PLCs often communicate with other devices or systems for data exchange and coordination.
• They have built-in fault detection and handling capabilities. They can monitor the system for errors, like input/output failures, communication issues, or program errors.
• They are highly flexible and scalable, allowing modifications and expansions to the control system without significant hardware changes.

Conclusion

In this blog, we’ve discussed the advantages of PLC along with its brief introduction and functions. It is a specialized computer program that is commonly used for industrial automation. It is important to understand its working, advantages, and disadvantages before you start working with it.

Further, if you’re looking for a job in the world of PLC, give this blog on PLC interview questions with detailed answers a good read to prepare well for your interview.