Review of the best programmable logic controllers for 2022

Novice workers whose duties include working with a PLC without fail come to the question of choosing the most optimal equipment. The user who has faced this question is recommended to familiarize himself with the aspects that are most important when buying such equipment, because it will not be difficult to make a mistake when choosing, and in order to correct a mistake, you will have to spend an impressive amount.

Manufacturers of such equipment, which are found on the Russian market, have managed to acquire a reputation, so it is worth considering each brand for reviews from experienced users. In addition, brands offer a series of devices that meet the specific requirements of the applicant, so it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with the name, purpose and series of devices already involved in a particular production. Neglecting this advice, the buyer runs the risk of encountering a number of technical equipment conflicts that are not fully resolved.In addition, common denominator devices eliminate a number of problems associated with accounting and maintenance, as well as save the manager from additional costs for training courses for employees. For an enterprise operating on a single PLC system, a single training of employees is sufficient.

Considerations when choosing a programmable logic controller

The manager should get acquainted with the opinion of the device operator, who will express an authoritative opinion about the proposed brands and his own preferences. The operator will show the best results on a machine that he knows thoroughly, so it is recommended to take into account the opinion of a professional.

In the case when a brand is chosen, it is necessary to investigate the series offered by the manufacturer. Ideally, the series accommodates devices of different specifications and computing capabilities. Such devices are divided into 3 categories depending on the installed capacities (large, medium and low power groups). The last category is intended for the simplest calculations on the equipment of the corresponding category. Connection with third-party devices does not exceed 100 copies. In addition, low power PLCs have a certain number of input and output connectors.This is necessary to save the operator from manual selection of modules. Modern devices from a low-power group are capable of performing calculations that are an order of magnitude superior to previous generations.

The most demanded category of controllers is medium power devices. Such a technique is produced in the order of modules so that the operator does not have to deal with the problem of limitation in settings. This category is able to provide stable operation for equipment on a workshop scale. Thanks to the network connection, the middle category is able to connect with third-party equipment and with a factory-integrated control add-on.

PLCs of the high power category are not often found on sale, because such equipment is produced in limited quantities. This category will provide stable operation within a large enterprise and will require a network connection. The functionality of the large group is similar to the models of the middle category.

Inexperienced operators resort to a banal comparison of models based on the declared characteristics and capacities of specific devices, which is not recommended. A programmable PLC is a specific technique; even professionals get confused in digital indicators. When choosing a specific model, it is recommended to proceed from the task assigned to the device.

Economy segment devices

A buyer interested in equipment for small or medium-sized industries should take a closer look at the models of economy segment controllers. These devices at an affordable cost will provide the buyer with stable operation and functionality of modern machines.

Programmable logic controller from Aries company model 63/73

It is noteworthy that there are 2 COM format connectors, coupled with 8 outputs (discrete type) and 8 analog. These characteristics are sufficient for most types of production in modern realities. In addition, the manufacturer provided the buyer with a pre-installed watch battery and memory module. An interesting information processing mechanism: when the device is started, data is recorded in permanent memory, and at the time of direct work, it is transferred to operational memory. A potential buyer should take into account that the movement of the buttons on these models requires impressive efforts from the operator.

• Programmers speak positively about the programming environment of this model;
• Ease of handling;
• Reliable clock and memory operation;
• Additional features thanks to the COM connector;
• Possibility of flexible device configuration.

• Only 220V power supply is available;
• Tight keys;
• Limited screen options.

Review:

“One of the best devices in the price range, easy to learn, easy to use. I recommend to medium-sized productions!”

Controller from Tdm electric company model PLC12A230

The device from a company from China has gained a reputation as a reliable equipment for servicing small businesses. The PLC box is made of a special grade of flame retardant plastic, no toxin smell. The copy is marked in accordance with the requirements of the law. The interface of the model is fully adapted to the Russian language, which reduces the difficulties by an order of magnitude regarding the choice of the required option and programming.

• Reliable technology;
• Adapted interface;
• Wide opportunities for communication;
• Power indicators.

• Not found.

Review:

“Excellent device from China, organically fits into the system of small production! The menu in Russian reduces the complexity typical for programming. Would recommend to anyone looking for a budget controller!”

Segnetics PLC model Smh2g

It is worth noting that by purchasing the Smh2gi model, the applicant will have the opportunity to work on a Linux OS adapted for this technique. Programmers note that this model is of interest only in conjunction with modular extensions (ports for communications are available). A distinctive feature of the brand is the well-thought-out mechanisms for connecting with third-party devices. Unlike the previous position, the device does not come with a battery and memory, these extensions must be purchased separately. Also, the buyer will have to spend money on wires for connecting to third-party devices, traditionally, communication tools for this brand are expensive. It is allowed to independently manufacture wires from components purchased in specialized stores, but by resorting to such means, the owner of the PLC acts under his own responsibility. It is recommended to thoroughly study the methods of manufacturing such wires for this model on the Internet. The course of the buttons is an order of magnitude superior to the convenience of the previous position, as is the work with the screen. Users note the pleasant design of this controller.

• High speed for routine tasks;
• Appearance of the device;
• An impressive amount of supported communications;
• Ability to work on the Internet.

• Experienced programmers note the lack of flexibility in writing programs;
• There is no possibility of replacing small devices;
• Expensive cables.

Review:

“Being the owner of a medium-sized enterprise, I, after consulting with the chief production programmer, decided to purchase the Smh2g model from Cegnetix and was satisfied. During the operation, there were no impressive remarks, and the operator speaks extremely flatteringly about the controller. Would recommend to anyone looking for a PLC for medium scale production!”

Devices of the highest price category

This category is worth looking at if the applicant is interested in the stable operation of equipment in a large enterprise. Such electronics are able to interact with complex programs and have flexible settings.

Schneider Electric controller model M171/172

It is worth noting that the 171 version will save the buyer money, but the 172 will provide an impressive number of opportunities for connecting with third-party electronics. The manufacturer provided 172 versions with Internet access. Unlike 171, this should be taken into account if the enterprise has requirements for connecting to the network. The advanced version is distinguished by a well-developed display and the presence of a large number of possibilities for extensions. The manufacturer took care of the hardware of the equipment, therefore, provided the owners with a number of updates that strengthened the performance of the PLC core. These measures allowed the owners to forget about previous omissions when working with the device, and potential buyers to get rid of the fear of encountering an undeveloped software part.

• Impressive connectivity with third-party equipment;
• An impressive number of connectors;
• Developed software;
• Thoughtful display;
• Nice design;
• Wide range of possibilities for the operator.

• There are negative reviews about products from the first waves of sales;
• Users note difficulties when working in a number of aspects;
• Lack of instructions from the manufacturer;
• Lack of technical support from the manufacturer;
• Not often available for sale in Russia.

Review:

“I am a programmer in a small enterprise, my work is related to this device. In general, the impressions from programming on it are positive, with the exception of a not always clear environment in the software part. The advantage of the device lies in its sociability, so I recommend this model to anyone who is looking for an addition to the already existing network of controllers in production!”

Programmable Logic Controller from Aries company model 110-ms4

A reputable brand offering job seekers a line of quality controllers. This technique shows good results in small and medium-sized industries. Certain models (304 and others) have a pre-installed Linux OS adapted for such devices. Also, the buyer gets a connector for the Internet and 2 ports, such as USB, for connecting with devices that support this format. In addition, the manufacturer has supplied the models of this series with connectors with pre-installed card readers, such as microSD. It should be noted that the reader only works with cards whose volume does not exceed 32 GB. The clock is also available by default. If a customer purchases an instance from this line to complement a PLC network with a similar operating system, the manufacturer guarantees reliable device communication. Through USB ports, communication with information storage devices, such as external hard drives, is allowed, which, together with an auxiliary memory card, such as microSD (2 GB is enough), will allow the operator to carry out a number of processes with the greatest comfort.Programmers note the high power of the models of this line and the flexible functional settings of the software part of the device. Also, there are rave reviews about the well-developed system of information exchange between devices. Often, copies of this line are equipped with a memory card and an extension for certain types of power supply.

• Impressive equipment;
• High power;
• Working with memory cards;
• A wide range of connectors and communications;
• Acceptable cost.

• Not found.

Review:

“I bought several models of this line for my own production and was satisfied with the performance of the controllers. I bought for devices of other series and manufacturers, respectively, and other programming conditions, but thanks to the wide communication capabilities, the devices of this brand fit into the overall system without serious problems. Operators note that the work is much easier with additional slots for memory cards, as well as the flexible functionality of the controllers from this manufacturer. During the operation, there were no complaints from programmers, and the work at the enterprise as a whole is stable. I recommend equipment from Aries to everyone who is looking for high-quality controllers for production!”

Siemens PLC model EM 241

The device belongs to the category of expensive, but for a high price, the user is offered impressive endurance in terms of stable operation. Programming is carried out within the framework of generally accepted standards, so the operator does not have to excel at work. The manufacturer has equipped the EM241 with the function of sending notifications to the phone assigned to the device.The control point is a standard PC, there is a system for registering the state of the device.

• The device is equipped with modern technologies;
• Easy to operate;
• Endurance indicators;
• Economical energy consumption;
• Status status registration.

• Not found.

Review:

“Great copy for large productions! Easy to manage, you just need to establish a connection with a PC. Energy consumption is acceptable, which for electronics of this category should be recorded as an advantage! I recommend it to anyone who will spare no expense for a quality controller!”

Outcome

When choosing a controller, it is recommended to pay attention to the number of points (output and input), because this parameter indicates the ability of the device to connect with additional devices. It is recommended to determine in advance the minimum number of communicating equipment.

It is important to consider that devices of a small category do not have an impressive number of connectors. If the buyer is interested in equipment with more than 8 connectors, you should focus on medium and high power models. When integrating a specific model into production with already pre-installed equipment, it is necessary to check the compatibility of the new controller and the operating equipment. In case of incompatibility between old and new technology, the exchange of information and the execution of tasks are excluded. In rare cases, contact with small electrics and a pre-installed device is allowed, but connection with a full-fledged device is often impossible.

Medium and high power controllers provide the owner with a wide range of possible models to work together.Electronics of a small group does not provide such opportunities, and the operator is allowed to connect only small devices, such as sensors, but only on specific models.

In the old days, controllers were considered low power and slow automation equipment. Modern realities allow for automation without unnecessary delay, and even the most budgetary devices have enough power indicators. The operator should take into account that the evaluation of the speed of a particular controller is possible only when the equipment is working. Simply put, you need to create a test program and check the speed of work for compliance with production requirements. There are brands on the market that integrate the cycling rate estimation function into their products.

Also, software capabilities in controllers are limited by definition, but in order to meet these limits, it is necessary to have a gigantic production facility (it is unlikely that there are production facilities of this scale in the world). Statistics show that a quarter of the capacity of the average controller goes to maintenance of the technical process, and the rest of the potential is used to process the above operation (detection and elimination of errors). Also, the working balance is directly related to the manner in which the program is composed. A competent operator is able to make a calculation that will provide automation on a low-power controller, and beginners often overload advanced representatives of such equipment.

It is recommended to pay attention also to environmental issues when writing programs for the controller. If you rely only on the functionality of the device, there is a possibility of making a mistake with the choice.Going to buy a PLC, the applicant should adhere to the following points:

1. Find out the name of the brand and the series of electronics pre-installed in the production.
2. Based on the previous paragraph, select a specific brand (either corresponding to the pre-installed one, or having the opportunity to work together).
3. Make sure that the selected model has a sufficient number of connectors.
4. Take into account the network capabilities of electricians working and new.
5. Consider the compatibility of the selected equipment and control point.
6. Take into account the opinion of the operator (if he has sufficient experience) about the selected technique.

The remaining criteria depend on the buyer's ability to pay and his personal views on the PLC. Also, it should be borne in mind that such devices are often not available in the warehouses of the distributor, so you need to calculate in advance the time for the purchase (you may have to wait for delivery to the warehouse) and installation of equipment.