Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are used in manufacturing, industry, and amusement park rides. Types include ladder logic, traditional programming, state logic, human machine interface, and remote terminal units. PLC hardware is built to withstand harsh conditions, and software is elastic. Ladder logic is common in industrial systems, traditional programming allows for flexibility, state logic is flexible and simulates decision making, human machine interfaces combine controllers for automation and interaction, and remote terminal units provide consistent data in harsh conditions.
Many types of programmable logic controllers are often used in manufacturing, industry, and even amusement park rides. The different types can include ladder logic, traditional programming, status logic, human machine interface and remote terminal units. Most of these controllers are defined by the physical configuration of the hardware as well as the types of software or programming languages used. Programmable logic controller hardware is often built to withstand severe weather conditions or physical wear and tear, and software is often made to be somewhat elastic to accommodate many different situations. As a result, the various controllers are often designed for manufacturing and automation systems.
Ladder logic is considered one of the most common types of programmable logic controllers. In these systems, the relay logic hardware is often automated and maintained using programmable logic. This makes this type useful in industrial systems, because many functions can be maintained with minimal human interaction. Additionally, ladder logic could be combined with multiple forms of programmable controllers to create advanced systems.
Traditional programming logic controllers often use common computer languages, such as BASIC, to enter commands and maintain a system. This type often includes some level of human interaction. Logic controllers using traditional programming could also be used to control relay-based systems or factory production processes that need to be flexible.
State logic is often considered one of the flexible types of programmable logic controller. By building a computer model of a real-world activity, programmable state logic controllers are often used to assist with activities that could change rapidly. State logic allows for the simulation of decision making, as the state of a program often changes based on input and output data. Many types of programmable logic systems can be modeled using state logic.
Human Machine Interfaces often combine the different controllers to allow for automation and routine human interaction. These systems may rely on input commands or provide data to users when requested. This type is often more advanced than fully automated systems, because various programming languages are often needed to facilitate consistent interaction.
Remote terminal units are generally designed to provide a static function. They are often used remotely and can provide a consistent data stream despite harsh environmental or data processing conditions. These systems are often designed to operate without much human interaction, which can make them ideal for monitoring compared to other control systems.
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