A PLC is a particular implementation of a micro-controller, designed for flexibility in the industrial environment. It can have suitable analogue and digital input and output modules, as well as communications. They are of modular design so features can be added. Software is provided that suits the application in the industrial area. It is intended so the programmer can readily set timers, read sensors and signals, monitor events, and output to relays, speed controllers and logic levels.
A micro-controller may have similar functions to a PLC, or others altogether. It is used in systems where economies of scale prevail, factory products. It is a specific design effort for each application.
The decision on which to use is based on whether the PLC is suitable or not. Use a PLC where it suits, otherwise a micro-controller.
PLCs are likely to be used in industrial or factory environments where convenience, modularity and rugged design are issues. Micro-controllers are likely to be used where low power consumption, battery operation, small size, specialised purposes, and economies of scale are required. They would especially be used where the control task is very simple.
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
A PLC is a particular implementation of a micro-controller, designed for flexibility in the industrial environment. It can have suitable analogue and digital input and output modules, as well as communications. They are of modular design so features can be added. Software is provided that suits the application in the industrial area. It is intended so the programmer can readily set timers, read sensors and signals, monitor events, and output to relays, speed controllers and logic levels.
A micro-controller may have similar functions to a PLC, or others altogether. It is used in systems where economies of scale prevail, factory products. It is a specific design effort for each application.
The decision on which to use is based on whether the PLC is suitable or not. Use a PLC where it suits, otherwise a micro-controller.
PLCs are likely to be used in industrial or factory environments where convenience, modularity and rugged design are issues. Micro-controllers are likely to be used where low power consumption, battery operation, small size, specialised purposes, and economies of scale are required. They would especially be used where the control task is very simple.