Programmable Logic Controllers, or PLCs, are digital computers that help you automate electromechanical processes. This can include anything mechanical in a factory or industrial plant that helps to speed up your manufacturing processes.
There are many different PLC programming software available on the market, so it can be tricky to figure out which is best for your company. We recommend sticking to renowned and reliable brands, who will ensure you get the best PLC programming software possible.
So with that in mind, here are 5 of the best PLC programming software brands to consider for your company.
1) Allen Bradley
Allen Bradley PLC is the line of controllers from Rockwell Automation, one of the most well-established PLC manufacturers in America. Allen Bradley controllers can be used in various projects and are often referred to as Programmable Automation Controllers, or PACs for short. If set up correctly, their controllers manage entire plants and factories, meaning they are highly scalable.
Their software packages are very comprehensive, as the full suite gives you access to ControlLogix software and controllers, as well as GuardPLC and Softlogix Softwares. The company also offers controllers for smaller-scale projects, meaning they’re a good all-around brand.
Allen Bradley’s PLC Prices are competitive, so you’ll always get your money’s worth.
2) Siemens
Siemens PLC is probably one of the most famous brands in the automation industry, boasting 30.7% of the global market share. Siemens PLC currently caters to petrochemicals, offshore plants, and building management systems, meaning they are typically used for bigger projects.
Due to their software’s scalability, flexibility, and features, they are best suited to:
- Production
- Manufacturing
- Processing
- Engineering
- Detection
- Communication
Siemens PLC typically offers a line of controllers called SIMATIC (a combination of Siemens and Automatic), which boast features such as Ethernet TCP/IP connection, profinet, and Profibus.
3) Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi PLC ranks third in the global automation market, with a 13.9% market share. Mitsubishi is mainly based in Japan and Asia but still offers high-quality automation products for those of us across the sea.
Mitsubishi is renowned for their products reliability and ability to troubleshoot any problems you may have with the software easily. It’s most commonly used to automate more common household objects, such as air conditioners or refrigerators.
4) Schneider Electric
If you want software for versatile automation, Schneider Electric PLC may be the brand for you, as their software has various applications. Their Top PLCs include:
- Twido Suite
- EcoStruxure Machine Expert
- Zelio Soft
They also boast that they have the first TUV certified Programmable Electronic Systems (PES). This certification was awarded to the Triconex program and indicates that you can use it in Emergency Shutdown Situations, so it’s ideal for nuclear power plants.
As a result, Schneider Electric PLC has the first off-the-shelf system officially certified for Emergency Shutdown Use!
5) Omron PLC
Omron PLC provides automation that you can use on anything from smaller-scale projects to entire production lines. They also implement an online update system that allows users to update their software for free after they’ve purchased it. This means with Omron PLC, you will always have the most up-to-date software they have to offer, and your automation will always be the best it can be.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to implement automation into your company and need a PLC brand to source your software, these five solutions will impress. Automation is an essential part of any manufacturing business, and any of the above choices will help maximize efficiency within your business. So, we recommend taking time to get familiar with these five brands above to figure out which is ideal for your company.
