PLC vs MCU-the differences between PLC and MCU
About the PLC vs MCU, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and MCU (Microcontroller Unit) are significantly different in many aspects.
First of all, from the definition and purpose, PLC is a digital operation electronic system designed for industrial environment. It uses programmable memory to perform logic operations, sequence control, timing, counting and arithmetic operations, and controls various machinery or production processes through digital or analog input and output. MCU, also known as single chip microcomputer, is to reduce the frequency and specification of CPU appropriately, and integrate peripheral interfaces such as memory, counter, USB, A/D conversion, UART, PLC, DMA, and even LCD drive circuits on a single chip to form a chip level computer for combined control in different applications.
Secondly, from the development process, PLC usually does not need to know the underlying resources. The manufacturer will provide a secondary development, user-friendly programming software. Users can use ladder diagram and other languages to program, making the development process relatively simple and fast. While MCU requires developers to have certain underlying knowledge and programming skills, such as assembly or C language, to develop the underlying.
Thirdly, from the perspective of price and application scope, PLC is relatively expensive, but its development cycle is short, effective, reliable, and interchangeability is good, especially suitable for industrial control and other occasions that need high reliability and stability. Because of its low cost and flexibility, MCU is widely used in various electronic products, such as mobile phones, PC peripherals, automotive electronics, etc.
Finally, from the perspective of function and performance, PLC has strong logic control ability and data processing ability, which is suitable for complex industrial automation control. Although MCU has powerful functions, it may be restricted by its hardware performance, such as the scan cycle and clock frequency may be unstable, so it may be inferior to PLC in some high real-time applications.
In general, about PLC vs MCU, PLC and MCU have their own characteristics and advantages, so which equipment to use should be selected according to specific application scenarios and needs. For industrial control occasions requiring high reliability and stability, PLC may be more suitable; For electronic product applications that require low cost and flexibility, MCU may have more advantages.
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