PLC Selection Criteria
PLC Selection Criteria
System requirements
* The starting point in determining any solution must be to understand what is to be achieved.
* The program design starts with breaking down the task into a number of simple understandable
elements, each of which can be easily
described.
Application requirements
* Input and output device requirements. After determining the operation of the system, the next
step is to determine what input and
output devices the system requires.
* List the function required and identify a specific type of device.
* The need for special operations in addition to discrete (On/Off) logic.
* List the advanced functions required beside simple discrete logic.
Electrical Requirements
The electrical requirements for inputs, outputs, and system power; When determining the
electrical requirements of a system, consider three items:
Speed of Operation
How fast the control system must operate (speed of operation).
– In what time frame must the fastest action occur (input device detection to output device
activation)?
– Does the control system need to count pulses from an encoder or flow-meter and respond
quickly?
Communication
If the application requires sharing data outside the process, i.e. communication. Communication
involves sharing application data or status with another electronic device, such as a computer or
a monitor in an operator’s station. Communication can take place locally through a twisted-pair
wire, or remotely via telephone or radio modem.
Operator Interface
If the system needs operator control or interaction. In order to convey information about machine
or process status, or to allow an operator to input data, many applications require operator
interfaces. Traditional operator interfaces include pushbuttons, pilot lights and LED numeric
display. Electronic operator interface devices display messages about machine status in
descriptive text, display part count and track alarms. Also, they can be used for data input.
Physical Environment
The physical environment in which the control system will be located. Consider the environment
where the control system will be located. In harsh environments, house the control system in an
appropriate IP-rated enclosure. Remember to consider accessibility for maintenance,
troubleshooting or reprogramming.