PLCs and PLC-based PACs Control Systems

This guide includes both selection criteria and strategies to help in choosing the controllers and/or system that best meets your specific current and future needs.

Overview

You are undertaking one of the most important decisions to impact your business: choosing the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) or Process Automation Controller (PAC) control system supplier and technology to operate your plant for years to come. 

If you are unsure about any of the key trends in the market or are in need of purchasing criteria, then you need the assistance that ARC Advisory Group has to offer. 

ARC is the industry leading provider of market knowledge, trends, and supplier information for PLC/PAC systems worldwide.  Our products and services integrate hands-on experience with global market research to deliver the intelligence you need.
 
In recent years, many PLCs have evolved into PACs, which integrate logic, motion, and safety control with cyber security, and even energy management functionality within a common platform. 

Today, the majority of PLC revenues worldwide come from PLC-based PACs and these revenues are growing at a faster rate than for traditional PLCs.  Thanks to the success of PLC-based PACs, PLC technology has further penetrated the process industries, where they now often replace large distributed control systems (DCS).  This trend is stronger in emerging markets, as PLCs are easier to maintain and engineers are scarce.  .

Programmable Logic Controller (PLCs) Strategic Issues

ARC has been researching the PLC/PAC systems market for over two decades and we understand the challenge companies have in selecting and implementing a solution that will best meets their simple unit, machine, or plant-wide requirement.  This includes: 

• Compatibility with current installed base of technology 
• Integration with business systems
• Breadth and depth of supplier’s applications and safety systems solutions
• Support, training, and spares
• Understanding the total cost of ownership for OEMs and end users
• Architecture based on object models
• Architecture based on standards
• Designs for maximum reliability
• Supplier long term viability
• Identify long term visions 

This ARC Selection Guide will help you select the best available PLC/PAC control system to meet your needs now and in the future.