Phoenix Contact PLCnext Control open-platform controller

PLCnext Control is Phoenix Contact’s first open control platform product based on PLCnext Technology. The controller combines the robustness and security of a classic PLC with the openness and flexibility of the world of smart devices. With PLCnext Technology, the company is responding to the challenges of the world of IIoT and simplifying existing controller solutions. Automation projects can now be implemented without the limitations of proprietary systems.

As an enhancement to classical IEC 61131-compliant PLC programming, PLCnext Technology makes it possible to program controllers using high-level language, thus ensuring PLC-typical real-time performance and data consistency for high-level languages and model-based code as well. Multiple developers can work independently in different programming languages and with the development tools they prefer. The result is faster application development, according to the company. Open source software and apps can also be incorporated into the system in a flexible way.

The controller is adaptable and open to the application of future technologies. The expanded connectivity provided by open interfaces and a direct cloud connection provide more freedom of choice. In addition to its open design, PLCnext Control’s high-performance CPU and large mass storage in a small housing make it a suitable alternative.