5 Reasons To Upgrade To Modern Programmable Automation Controllers

In the current evolving landscape of industrial and manufacturing automation, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) have made significant advancements over each generation’s lifecycle, with the new generation units offering numerous advantages over the previous generations. The newer generation units we prefer are referred to as PACs, or Programmable Automation Controllers. As industry experts, we aim to help you understand the impact the newer PACs can have on your industrial and manufacturing operations and the benefits your organization can realize by incorporating the newer gen units into your automation and control systems.

Increased Processing Power and Speed

Modern PACs are equipped with the latest generation multiprocessors that significantly enhance the performance capabilities of the units. Faster data processing is essential for streamlining complex automation tasks. This allows the current generation PACs to handle more intensive controls applications, increasing the efficiency of the manufacturing processes.

Enhanced Connectivity and Integration

One of the key features of the current generation PACs available is their enhanced connectivity options. The newer units provide support for various communication protocols, such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, and Profinet, enabling easy integration with other devices and systems. These features allow the implementation of real-time data exchange to optimize control across the entire industrial or manufacturing processes.

Advanced Programming and Diagnostics

Flexibility is another improved feature of the current generation PACs available to integrate into your operations. Supporting more robust programming languages allows engineers to customize the programming for the specific application. Modern PACs offer more advanced diagnostic capabilities that can provide real-time monitoring, troubleshooting and maintenance capabilities. All these features create a more stable and serviceable system that provides increased operational efficiency.

Scalable and Modular Solutions

Modern PACs are designed with scalability in mind. Current generation PACs are built with modular architectures that allow for easy expansion when your operation requires it. Whether you may need to add more I/O modules, add functionalities or upgrade components, modern PACs provide the flexibility to adapt to the changing requirements without extensive reconfiguration or modification. Investing in newer generation PACs ensure that your industrial controls solution will be able to grow with your business as you grow.

Continued Manufacturer Support

As with all technology, older generations simply become obsolete and are no longer serviceable. In some cases, if units that are several generations old start to reach the end of their service life, parts and support are generally just not available. At this point, the above-mentioned improvements in technology can have an increased impact on the capabilities of the systems they control and will provide years of reliable service and adaptability to changes in processes down the road.

At Embry Automation & Controls, we specialize in designing and implementing state of the art digital automation systems tailored to your unique needs. We are a certified Rockwell Automation Bronze System Integrator and support the full line of Rockwell and Allen Bradley components. Our team of dedicated experts provides custom programming and support throughout the lifecycle of these products. Contact us today to learn how we can help upgrade your operations to utilize current generation PACs to maximize the potential of your operations.

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