Microcontroller is the core of plc, PLC is a computer, and PLC is an electronic device specially designed for digital operation in industrial environments. Microcontroller is not as simple to use as PLC, and it is not convenient to replace it on site.PLC, as a general-purpose industrial control computer, is an industrial control device for industrial and mining enterprises. Its interface is simple and the programming language is easy for engineers and technicians to accept. The graphical symbols and expressions of ladder diagram language are very close to those of relay circuit diagrams, and only a small number of switching logic control instructions of PLC are needed to conveniently realize the functions of relay circuits. It opens the door for people who are not familiar with electronic circuits, computer principles and assembly language to use computers for industrial control.
1. plc is a product based on microcontroller, which is a programmable integrated chip. In other words, plc is composed of a microcontroller plus peripheral circuits. The development of microcontroller is quite troublesome. Programming is done in assembly or C. For example, the delay of a microcontroller needs to be calculated from the crystal. However, PLCs are different. Each manufacturer provides a programming software that can be programmed with ladder diagrams, and the delay only needs to send a number in the time relay.
2. microcontroller can form a variety of applications from micro, small to medium and large. plc is a special case of microcontroller application system. Microcontroller can develop all kinds of intelligent instruments, such as thermostat, TV remote control, soymilk machine controller, microwave oven, intelligent toys and so on.
3. plc from different manufacturers work on the same principle, have similar functions and indexes, and have a certain degree of interchangeability, versatility and reliability. Programmable controller is a kind of computer specially developed for industry.
4. microcontroller development cost is low, a microcontroller from a dozen to dozens, hundreds of different, but the development is more trouble. plc price of hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands, but the development cycle is short, fast results. Reliability is high.
I think they have their own advantages and strengths. From a technical point of view, they use the same logic mechanisms. But they can't use a PLC in a simple control, can they? Like a counter. Some places have only one function and you can't spend PLC money on a counter. I advocate the use of microcontrollers in small and simple places, and I advocate the use of PLCs in small and complex places, because it makes full use of his strengths, and in some ways complements his weaknesses, and allows him to take full advantage of their strengths. Generally speaking, our country does not have the core technology of these two products, so most of them are foreign products, a lot of things we can't change ourselves, we can only follow others. This is why there is a question of which is a promising microcontroller or programmable controller. Technology is progressing. There is no saying there is a future without a future.