What is the future of PLC Software? Is the death of PLCs inevitable?
People who work in a manufacturing facility most likely know about the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). It is a type of rugged, specialized computer that is designed for specific high-end tasks, such as production line automation and control. They are named so because one can program them easily through ladder logic. Though it was originally developed for the automotive industry, it is used extensively across all industries these days.
The Market of Programmable Logic Controller
The global market of PLC is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of more than five percent until 2026 and reach worth over US$15.5 billion. Modern PLC software for Windows PC can be deployed reliably even in harsh environments and facilities with extreme noise, heat, and dust. Without the advent of PLC software, factory automation might be out of the question or would be very different.
Though PLCs are in use since around the late 60s, they haven’t changed much since then. However, if you take a look at the latest PLC software launched by reputable brands, such as Kingstar, you can see that modern versions of PLC can fully deliver on the promise of Industry 4.0 & IoT. They are capable of fulfilling the demanding need for real-time machine control and redefining the culture of manufacturing automation.
PLC software that supports IoT PLC applications allows businesses of all sizes to upgrade their existing equipment and improve the performance and efficiency of their legacy systems.
Progressing from Industry 3.0 to Industry 4.0
In the second half of the 20th century, factories saw a huge transformation that enabled them to benefit from automation technology and sophisticated electronics. At that time, they were entering a period of automation that we now call as 3rd Industry Revolution. During that epoch, PLCs played an instrumental role in bringing this change to the production process.
Nowadays, more and more companies are looking forward to implementing internet-connected sensors, advanced data systems, and other technologies, all of which come under the umbrella term “Internet of Things”. This remarkable change in the industry is what is referred to as the 4th Industrial Revolution.
While many people might think that with the Industry4.0 IoT, the use of PLC would become extinct. However, that is not true. The use of PLC software will continue to be a ubiquitous part of the production process because they are very easy to use, highly reliable, and time-tested technology that has proven to work perfectly well. So, removing them in any significant way is highly unlikely in the upcoming years, especially for small-to-medium-sized businesses.
As the PLC has been in use for several decades, now there is a lot of skill set and talent out there in the manufacturing industry, especially with maintenance or automation technicians that are conditioned to using ladder logic. Most people find it hard to understand the scripted language and they feel more comfortable working with PLCs. So, yes, when it comes to getting the best out of the workforce, PLC-based automation will be much more prevalent and therefore, cannot be assumed to go anywhere soon.
Besides, brands like Kingstar, are launching PLC software for Windows PC that will help businesses gain valuable insights into their operations without replacing their legacy systems or training their workforce to learn a new programming language.
