5 Key factors to consider when using Unitronics “Smart PLC’s and HMI’s”

Broad Range of PLCs

The Unitronics range is comprehensive to cover the requirements of your customers applications. PLCs, for example, must be able to supply sufficient memory to support IO, log and manipulate historical data, as well as executing the control program. Where machine speed is critical the CPU
processing speed must be considered as well.
What are your sector’s standards? Do your applications need to comply with hazardous environment standards, CFR-21.11, or the spray-and-wipe standards of the food and drink industry?
Influenced by the mobile industry, your customers expect HMI colour touch-panels to provide the interface window between operator and system. In cases where space is at a premium, PLC + HMI all-in-one controllers have a distinct advantage with the benefit of reduced development time. Some PLC manufacturers provide PLC + HMI controllers with onboard or snap-on IO modules, which, in addition to saving space, also greatly reduce wiring.

Data Communication & More

Flexibility is key—the more protocols your selected brand of
PLCs supports, the better you can support interoperability
with existing applications and third-party devices.
Important industrial datacom protocols include MODBUS,
CANopen and other avors of CANbus such as CAN Layer2
and EtherNetIP. Some brands also support protocols such as
SNMP and FTP. Check to see if your PLC manufacturer
provides software utilities that enable you to implement
proprietary third-party datacom protocols, whether serial
RS232/485 or TCP/IP.
You can also benet your customers by increasing the visibility of operating data and diagnostic information.
Web Server—the ability to access a PLC via web browser—
and VNC support are excellent methods of remotely
accessing a PLC, while SMS messaging and email are very
handy for notication via mobile. You may also want to look for
GPRS/GSM modem support.