related sensors, makes decisions based on its programming, and sends control outputs. While IPCs can perform functions like PLCs, they are more general- purpose devices. They run an operating system like Linux or Windows, giving them access to an array of software tools, and are usually connected to an HMI (many PLCs can also connect to HMIs). PLCs tend to be machine- focused, while IPCs have more operational functions.
The differences between PLCs and IPCs are blurring. For example, the 1069208 PLC from Phoenix Contact runs the Linux operating system. Like traditional PLCs, it can be programmed with symbolic flowchart (SFC), ladder diagram (LD), function block diagram (FBD), and structured text (ST). It includes three independent Ethernet interfaces and can connect to the PROFICLOUD. Schneider Electric offers the HMIBMIEA5DD1E01 IIoT Edge Box for applications that can benefit from an IPC. This fan-less design includes an Intel Atom Apollo Lake E3930 dual-core processor running at 1.8 GHz. It has a mini PCIe expansion slot and nine communication ports (Figure 6). Conclusion This article has provided a brief overview of some guideposts designers should consider when specifying motors, drives and communications modules for Industry 4.0 installations. It’s far from exhaustive. It is intended to provide food for thought and some resources for further investigation.
Figure 5: This IO-Link master unit supports standard and high-speed synchronous I/O. (Image source: Omron Automation)
organizational efficiency and productivity. Reaching from Level 2 up to Levels 3, 4, and the cloud requires protocols like Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, and Modbus TCP/IP. Equipment possibilities for making those connections include programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or industrial personal computers (IPCs). PLCs are computers optimized for industrial automation and control. In a typical application, a PLC monitors inputs from the machine and
Figure 6: Fanless IPC with a mini PCIe expansion slot and multiple communication options. (Image source: Schneider Electric)
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