Motion controller (PAC) and logic controller (PLC) have many similarities, and with the development of technology, the boundary between the two becomes more and more blurred, which makes it more difficult to distinguish the differences between them.
Motion controller (PAC) and PLC are both used for industrial control of automation environment, the main purpose is to control automation equipment. Almost every set of automation equipment will contain PLC or PAC. Although their functions are basically the same, the two are different in their own technology.
1. Motion Controller (PAC)
The most obvious difference between a motion controller (PAC) and PLC is that PAC uses different programming interfaces. Generally, PAC uses C or C++ programming language to implement more complex control functions.
PAC has an open architecture and can easily run with multiple devices, networks and systems.
PAC also uses a modular design. This simplifies the expansion process and makes it easier to add or remove components.
In addition to monitoring and controlling thousands of input/output (I/O) points, PAC also allows tag-based programming, where a single tag name database is used for development.
Compared with PLC, PAC has powerful monitoring and control functions, while PLC functions are more basic.
2. Logic controller (PLC)
The design and function of PLC is simpler. They usually use a programming interface called Ladder Logic instead of the more complex C or C++ programming interface.
PLC memory is limited and can carry out simple program running and scanning functions, but they have high-speed I/O communication modules and have strong sequencing, proportional integral, and derivative control capabilities.
Most PLCs have a built-in network that can communicate, monitor, and collect data between multiple PLCs and human-machine interfaces (HMI).
For some applications, especially those with low automation, PLC can provide a low-cost and simplified control solution.
The motion controller (PAC) and the PLC basically perform the same function, but the functions to implement them are very different. From the programming interface to the communication method, they have different ways of controlling automation equipment.
In short, the storage capacity and distributed I/O of PLC and PAC are constantly improving to meet the needs of the factory. In addition, modern PLCs and motion controllers are connected through the Industrial Internet of Things to ensure real-time data transmission. With the integration of devices connected via IoT, the manufacturing process is more simplified and provides better network connectivity.
