What is an Open PLC?

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⌚Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:19 - Differences between closed and open PLCs
02:48 - Advantages of open PLCs
04:34 - Summary

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In this video, we explore the concept of an "open PLC" and how it differs from a traditional, "closed PLC."

A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a device used to control industrial processes and automation systems. To program a PLC, you need to write a program on a computer and then download it to the PLC. However, before you can begin writing the program, you first need to install programming software on your computer.

Let's take a look at three different PLCs: PLC A, PLC B, and PLC C. PLC A can only be programmed with software A. PLC B can only be programmed with software B. PLC C, on the other hand, can be programmed with software C, software D, and software E.

PLC A and PLC B are what we can call "closed PLCs" because they can only be programmed with one specific software. This limits the options and flexibility that you have when programming these PLCs. However, PLC C is what we call an "open PLC." An open PLC is not limited to one programming software and can also be programmed by other programming software. This provides more flexibility and options when programming the PLC.

One example of an open PLC is PLCnext from Phoenix Contact. The main programming software that can be used for programming this new PLC is PLCnext Engineer. But in addition to that, this PLC can also run programs created by other programming software such as Visual Studio or Eclipse. These software allows you to write code in C++, which can be used to write programs that may not be possible to write using traditional PLC programming languages such as ladder logic, function block diagram, and structured text.

In summary, an open PLC is a next-generation type of PLC that is not limited to only one programming software. It can incorporate higher-level languages programmed by other programming software as well. This provides more flexibility and options when programming a PLC. If you want to learn more about this new technology, consider taking a free course on PLCnext configuration and programming basics.

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If you want to learn more about this new technology, I suggest starting by taking the free course on PLCnext configuration and programming basics on RealPars if you haven’t already.

Once you complete this basic course, you’ll be ready to dive even further into the world of open PLC by taking the PLCnext ladder logic programming and then Using C++ project with PLCnext.

@phoenixcontact1923

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[rhysdavies]

Imagine a PLC programmed through the browser with in built program and UI through a browser, forget A, B, C, D, E. It’s truly open.

[isakoqv]

As a continuation of this topic, I would love a video on the subject of IEC 61499 and vendor-independent control systems.

[tommyhuffman]

Any text editor, or even command prompt, can allow you to write code. It's the compiler/interpreter that changes it from text to code.
You can also write code for PLC's using a generic text editor in certain cases, on a closed PLC.

I love the idea of a PLC allowing you to program in C++.

[flyte]

I had a plc next on my computer desk at the office for the last 2 month, can't wait to have time to play with it ! D:

[richardkraus]

The idea of a plc is simple logic that can be understood and edited by non programmers. By going to a high level language you gain an incredible amount of horsepower but defeat the reason these things were invented.

[NikolayLinkov]

Good explanation. But what about program cycle in open PLC? Does it takes similar execution time as closed PLC? As I remember the main purpose of PLC based system other more flexible PC ones is very short cycle time that is critical in many industrial automation process. So my question in general is: will we lose cycle time by increasing flexibility?

[mwblackopsglitches]

Good Video!! Will have to check the course out.

[anplechen]

Hi folks! I don't really understand why we call PLC "open" when the PLC can be programmed only using its original software and C++. We cannot program it with help, for instance Python, or whatever... As for me, PLC "C" in the video example is also closed. But it's only my point of view.

[PeopleAndroid]

Great video! I know you mentioned you aren't sure about where the design dept draws those, but is there anything you can do to ask them. I want to learn to do those drawings in that style. Thanks in advance :)

[kedarpuranik]

I they could also support python it would be a great advantage as C++ could be a bit of a challenge for beginners where as one can learn python quite easily.

[sainarendrasangani]

Hi Sir, I'm recently passed out mechanical engineering (bachelor's in mechanical engineering) student in At present situation which is the best job for mechanical student can u please suggest.Thank you.

[syufrijal]

Very cool explanation of open PLC...can we used c++ language for plc programming?

[natriumguy]

I am wondering if we are to program PLC using Visual studio then how will we download written program in PLC? Would I require PLCNext engineer software for that?

[luzeniltonjr.]

The PLC manufacturers could open the architecture and the ISA instructions so we can make our own compilers e maybe new languages

[warrenscorner]

That’s an interesting concept but wasn’t PLC software designed in ladder logic so it would be simple to understand and easier for electricians to read? I recently had a project that involved programming a stepper motor controller in c++. What a nightmare! What do you consider the clunkiest of all the closed PLC software to use? We have some Mitsubishi PLC’s and their software sucks. Not a big fan of Rockwell’s Connected Components Workbench either.

[TheAnalamanga]

i thought the open plc can be programmed with any software such as tia portal, cx-one... it has just been added with another language but does not make it open at all...

[voytechj]

Writing a C++ programs for PLC is a good thing, but you have to be careful with stack overflow, memory management and many other things. C++ is not an easy language, that's why higher level languages like LD, FDB, ST were invented long time ago.

PLC are computers, and inside there is probably some ARM microcontroller. Other MCU board like Arduino, STM Nucleo, etc. have free development tools, and main language of choice is C and less C++, but those boards aren't the final product. There is no optoisolation, weak IO driving capabilities, no power supplier, no case (PCB exposed), no EMI certifications, etc. Those boards are for DIYers and electronic designers.

PLC is a ready to use product that can be used straight out of the box, and mount into DIN rail. Writing C++ programs feature can bring new customers that are familiar with "normal" programming languages. With strong MCU you can flash microPython interpreter, and use Python. Maybe PLCnext designers should implement that interpreter?