Review of the best programmable logic controllers for 2020

Novice workers, whose duties include working with the PLC, necessarily come to the question of choosing the most optimal equipment. The user who has faced this question is advised to familiarize himself with the aspects that are most important when buying such equipment, because it will not be difficult to make a mistake when choosing, and to correct the mistake, you will have to spend an impressive amount.

Manufacturers of such equipment that are found on the Russian market have managed to acquire a reputation, so it is worth considering each brand for reviews from experienced users. In addition, brands offer a series of devices that meet the specific requirements of the applicant, so it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with the name, purpose and series of devices already used in a particular production. By neglecting this advice, the buyer runs the risk of facing a number of technical equipment conflicts that are not fully resolved. In addition, the devices of a single denominator eliminate a number of problems associated with accounting and maintenance, and also save the manager from additional costs for training courses for employees. For an enterprise operating on a single PLC system, a single training of employees is sufficient.

Considerations when choosing a programmable logic controller

The manager should get acquainted with the opinion of the device operator, who will express an authoritative opinion about the proposed brands and his own preferences. The operator will show the best results on a machine that he thoroughly knows, therefore it is recommended to take into account the opinion of a professional.

In the case when a brand is selected, it is necessary to research the series offered by the manufacturer. Ideally, the series accommodates devices of different specifications and computing capabilities. Such devices are divided into 3 categories depending on the built-in capacities (large, medium and low-power groups). The last category is intended for the most simple calculations on equipment of the corresponding category. Connection with third-party devices does not exceed 100 copies. In addition, low-power PLCs have a certain number of connectors for inputs and outputs. This is necessary to save the operator from manual selection of modules. Modern devices from the low-power group are capable of performing calculations by an order of magnitude superior to previous generations.

The most demanded category of controllers is medium power devices. This technique is performed in the order of modules so that the operator does not have to face the problem of restriction in the settings.This category is able to provide stable operation for equipment on a shop scale. Thanks to the network connection, the middle category is able to connect with third-party equipment and with a production-integrated control add-on.

PLCs of the high power category are not often found on the market, because such equipment is produced in limited quantities. This category will provide stable operation within a large enterprise and will require a network connection. The functionality of the large group is similar to that of the middle category.

Inexperienced operators resort to a banal comparison of models based on the declared characteristics and capacities of specific devices, which is not recommended. A programmable PLC is a specific technique, even professionals are confused in digital indicators. When choosing a specific model, it is recommended to proceed from the assigned task for the device.

Economy segment devices

A buyer interested in technology for small or medium-sized industries should take a closer look at the models of economy segment controllers. These devices will provide the buyer with stable operation and functionality of modern machines at a reasonable cost.

Aries Programmable Logic Controller Model 63/73

It is noteworthy that there are 2 COM connectors together with 8 outputs (discrete type) and 8 analog outputs. These characteristics are sufficient for most types of production in modern realities. In addition, the manufacturer provided the buyer with a preinstalled clock battery and memory module. An interesting information processing mechanism: when the device is started, the data is recorded on permanent memory, and at the moment of direct operation, it is transferred to the operational one. A potential buyer should take into account that the movement of the buttons on these models requires impressive efforts from the operator.

• Programmers speak positively about the programming environment of this model;
• Ease of handling;
• Reliable clock and memory operation;
• Additional features thanks to the COM connector;
• Possibility of flexible configuration of the device.

• Only 220 V power is available;
• Tight keys;
• Limited screen capabilities.

Feedback:

“One of the best in the price range, easy to learn, easy to use. I recommend medium-sized enterprises! ”

Controller from Tdm electric firm PLC12A230 model

The device from the PRC company has gained a reputation as a reliable technology for servicing small businesses. The PLC box is made of a special brand of plastic, which is resistant to combustion, there is no smell of toxins. The copy is marked in accordance with legal requirements. The interface of the model is fully adapted to the Russian language, which reduces the difficulties by an order of magnitude regarding the choice of the required option and programming.

• Reliable technology;
• Adapted interface;
• Wide communication possibilities;
• Power indicators.

• Not found.

Feedback:

“An excellent device from China, fits seamlessly into the small production system! The menu in Russian reduces the complexity inherent in programming. Would recommend to anyone looking for a budget controller! ”

Plc from Segnetics, model Smh2g

It should be noted that by purchasing the Smh2gi model, the applicant will have the opportunity to work on the Linux OS adapted for this technique. Programmers note that this model is of interest only in conjunction with modular extensions (ports for communication are available). A distinctive feature of the brand is thoughtful connection mechanisms with third-party devices. Unlike the previous position, the device does not come with a battery and memory, these extensions must be purchased separately. Also, the buyer will have to spend money on wires for connecting with third-party devices, traditionally, communication tools for this brand are expensive.It is allowed to independently manufacture wires from components purchased in specialized stores, but by resorting to similar means, the owner of the PLC acts under his own responsibility. It is recommended to thoroughly study the methods of making such wires for this model on the Internet. The travel of the buttons is an order of magnitude superior to the convenience of the previous position, as well as working with the screen. Users have commented on the pleasant design of this controller.

• High speed for routine tasks;
• Device appearance;
• An impressive number of supported communications;
• The ability to work on the Internet.

• Experienced programmers note a lack of flexibility in writing programs;
• There is no possibility of replacing small devices;
• Expensive cables.

Feedback:

“As the owner of a medium-sized enterprise, after consulting with the chief programmer of the production, I decided to purchase the Smh2g model from Segnetics and was satisfied. During the operation, no impressive comments have arisen, and the operator responds extremely flatteringly about the controller. Would recommend to anyone looking for a PLC for medium scale production! ”

Devices of the highest price category

It is worth looking into this category if the applicant is interested in the stable operation of equipment at a large enterprise. Such electronics are capable of interacting with complex programs and have flexible settings.

Schneider Electric controller model M171 / 172

It is worth noting that the 171 version will save the buyer money, but the 172 will provide an impressive amount of opportunities for connecting with third-party electronics. The manufacturer provided 172 versions with Internet access. Unlike the 171, this is worth considering if your enterprise has network connectivity requirements. The advanced version has a sophisticated display and a large number of expansion options. The manufacturer took care of the hardware part of the equipment, therefore, provided the owners with a number of updates that strengthened the performance of the PLC core. These measures allowed the owners to forget about the previous omissions when working with the device, and potential buyers to get rid of fears of facing an undeveloped software part.

• Impressive connectivity with third-party technology;
• An impressive number of connectors;
• Well-developed software;
• Thoughtful display;
• Nice design;
• Ample opportunities for the operator.

• There are negative product reviews from the first waves of sales;
• Users report difficulties in working in a number of ways;
• Lack of instructions from the manufacturer;
• Lack of technical support from the manufacturer;
• Not often available in the Russian Federation.

Feedback:

“I am a programmer in a small enterprise, my work is related to this device. In general, the impressions from programming on it are positive, except for the not always clear environment in the software part. The advantage of the device lies in its communicability, so I recommend this model to everyone who is looking for an addition to the existing network of controllers in production! ”

Aries Programmable Logic Controller model 110-ms4

A brand with a strong reputation offers applicants a line of quality controllers. This technique shows good results in small and medium-sized industries. Certain models (304 and others) have a preinstalled Linux operating system adapted for such devices. Also, the buyer gets a connector for the Internet and 2 ports, such as USB, for connecting with devices that support this format. In addition, the manufacturer has equipped the models of this series with connectors with pre-installed card readers, such as microSD. It should be noted that the reader only works with cards whose volume does not exceed 32 GB. The clock is also available by default.If a customer purchases a copy from this line to complement a PLC network with a similar operating system, the manufacturer guarantees reliable communication between the devices. Through USB ports, communication with information storage devices, such as external hard drives, is allowed, which, together with an auxiliary memory card, such as microSD (2 GB is sufficient), will allow the operator to carry out a number of processes with the greatest comfort. Programmers note the high power of the models of this line and flexible functional settings of the software part of the device. Also, there are rave reviews about the well-developed system of information exchange between devices. Often, copies of this line are equipped with a memory card and an extension for certain types of power supply.

• Impressive equipment;
• High powers;
• Working with memory cards;
• A wide range of connectors and communications;
• Acceptable cost.

• Not found.

Feedback:

“I bought several models of this line for my own production and was pleased with the work of the controllers. I bought for devices of other series and manufacturers, respectively, and other programming conditions, but thanks to the wide communication capabilities, the devices of this brand fit into the overall system without serious problems. Operators note that work is much easier with additional slots for memory cards, as well as flexible functionality of controllers from this manufacturer. During the operation, there were no complaints from programmers, and the work at the enterprise is generally stable. I recommend Aries equipment to anyone looking for quality controllers for production! ”

Siemens plc model EM 241

The device belongs to the category of expensive, but at a high price, the user is offered impressive indicators of endurance in terms of stable operation. Programming is carried out within the framework of generally accepted standards, so the operator does not have to be sophisticated when working. The manufacturer has provided the EM241 with the function of sending notifications to the phone assigned to the device. The control center is a standard PC, there is a system for recording the state of the device.

• The device is equipped with modern technology;
• Easy to operate;
• Endurance indicators;
• Economical energy consumption;
• Registration of status status.

• Not found.

Feedback:

“An excellent specimen for large productions! Convenient to operate, you just need to establish a connection with a PC. Energy consumption is acceptable, which for electronics of this category is worth adding to the benefits! I recommend to everyone who will not spare money for a quality controller! ”

Outcome

When choosing a controller, it is recommended to pay attention to the number of points (output and input), because this parameter indicates the possibility of the device in connection with additional devices. It is recommended to decide in advance on the minimum number of communication equipment.

It is important to take into account that devices of a small category do not have an impressive number of connectors. If the buyer is interested in equipment with more than 8 connectors, it is worth focusing on models of medium and high power. When integrating a specific model into production with already pre-installed equipment, it is necessary to check the compatibility of the new controller and the operating equipment. In the event of incompatibility between old and new technology, the exchange of information and the execution of tasks are excluded. In rare cases, contact with a small electrician and a pre-installed device is allowed, but connection with a full-fledged device is often impossible.

Medium to high power controllers provide the owner with a wide range of possible models for collaboration. Small group electronics do not provide such opportunities, and the operator is allowed to connect only small devices, such as sensors, but only on specific models.

In the old days, controllers were considered low power and sluggish automation equipment. Modern realities allow for automation without unnecessary delay, and even the most budgetary devices have enough power indicators. The operator should take into account that the assessment of the speed of a particular controller is possible only when working with equipment. Simply put, you need to create a test program and check the speed of work for compliance with production requirements. There are brands in the market that integrate cyclical rate estimation into products.

Also, the software capabilities in the controllers are limited by definition, but in order to keep within these boundaries, it is necessary to have a gigantic production facility (there are hardly any production facilities of this scale in the world). Statistics show that a quarter of the capacity of the middle controller is spent on servicing the technical process, and the rest of the potential is involved in processing the above operation (identifying and eliminating errors). Also, the work balance is directly related to the manner in which the program is written. A competent operator is able to make a calculation that will ensure automation on a low-power controller, and beginners often overload the advanced representatives of such technology.

It is recommended that you also focus on environmental considerations when programming the controller. If you rely only on the functionality of the device, there is a possibility of making a mistake with the choice. When going to buy a PLC, the applicant should adhere to the following points:

1. Find out the name of the brand and the series of electronics pre-installed in production.
2. Based on the previous paragraph, choose a specific brand (either corresponding to the pre-installed one, or having the ability to work together).
3. Make sure there are enough connectors on the selected model.
4. Take into account the network capabilities of electricians working and new.
5. Consider the compatibility of the selected equipment and control point.
6. Take into account the opinion of the operator (if he has sufficient experience) about the selected technique.

The rest of the criteria depend on the purchasing power of the buyer and his personal views on the PLC. Also, it should be borne in mind that such devices are often not available in the distributor's warehouses, so it is necessary to calculate in advance the time for purchase (you may have to wait for delivery to the warehouse) and installation of equipment.