What is the difference between plc and embedded

plc introduction

The full name of PLC is Programmable Logic Controller. It is a computer-controlled sensor and actuator device designed for automation control. PLC can be widely used in various automation control fields, such as robots, production process control, traffic signal control, building automation control, etc.

The core components of PLC are processor (CPU), control program and I/O module. Its working principle is to convert input signals (such as sensors and other control switches) into digital signals and monitor them in real time, perform logical processing on them, and control the associated output devices (such as control valves, motors and other operating elements) when necessary.

PLC has many advantages in automation control systems, such as stability, reliability, programmability, easy maintenance, easy expansion, etc. Due to these advantages, it has always been regarded as an indispensable and main component of automation control systems.

Embedded Introduction

An embedded system is a computer system that is embedded in other devices. It is usually composed of a microprocessor, a microcontroller or a digital signal processor and related software and hardware components. Embedded systems can run independently and have the characteristics of real-time, reliability and stability. They are widely used in various fields, such as automobiles, medical treatment, aerospace, security, communications, smart homes, etc.

Embedded systems generally adopt customized designs. The development process needs to consider various resource constraints, such as storage space, power consumption, performance, stability, etc., and needs to be tailored according to the required functions. In addition, the development of embedded systems also requires the support of experienced developers, reliable tools and development environments.

The main tasks of embedded system development include:

1. Hardware selection and design: Select the corresponding hardware platform and perform circuit design based on the specific requirements of the application scenario, including the selection of chips, peripherals, sensors, communication modules, etc.

2. Software development and testing: Design and develop embedded software according to system requirements, including writing drivers, operating system code, applications, etc., and testing, debugging and optimizing them.

3. System integration and verification: Integrate the hardware and software systems, and conduct comprehensive testing and verification on the functionality, reliability, real-time performance, stability, etc. of the system.

4. Marketing and maintenance: Mass production of tested embedded systems, sales to customers and providing after-sales service and technical support.

The development of embedded systems requires comprehensive consideration of many factors and generally requires multidisciplinary and cross-domain team collaboration.

What is the difference between plc and embedded

PLC and embedded system are two different types of electronic systems. Although they both belong to the scope of embedded systems, they have the following differences in design and application:

1. Different design goals: PLC is mainly used in the field of industrial automation, and its design goal is to automatically control production lines or processes; while embedded systems are widely used in various industries, and their goal is to achieve intelligent control, such as home appliances, automotive electronics, medical equipment, transportation facilities, etc.

2. Hardware resources: PLC systems generally have stronger hardware performance and larger storage capacity to meet the efficiency and stability requirements of industrial automation. The hardware resources of embedded systems are usually more flexible than PLC systems, and more suitable chips, memories, interfaces, etc. can be selected according to specific needs.

3. Programming language: PLC systems generally use programming languages ​​such as Ladder Diagram and Function Block Diagram, while embedded systems can use multiple languages, such as C, C++, Assembly, etc., providing higher programming freedom.

4. Programming difficulty: PLC programming is relatively easy for engineers to learn. Its programming language is designed for industrial control systems. As long as you master the control logic, you can quickly develop the control program. Embedded systems have a relatively smaller learning curve and require a solid computer foundation and embedded system development experience.

In short, PLC and embedded systems are two different types of electronic systems, and you can choose the appropriate technology according to your actual needs. PLC is suitable for industrial automation control, while embedded systems are suitable for various fields such as home appliances, automotive electronics, medical equipment, and transportation facilities.