Function Block Diagram vs Structured Text

Developers should learn FBD when working on industrial automation projects, such as factory automation, building management systems, or process control in sectors like oil and gas, where PLCs are standard meets developers should learn structured text when working in industrial automation, manufacturing, or process control environments where plcs are used, as it is essential for programming advanced control logic, mathematical computations, and data handling. Here's our take.

Function Block Diagram

Nice Pick

Developers should learn FBD when working on industrial automation projects, such as factory automation, building management systems, or process control in sectors like oil and gas, where PLCs are standard

Pros

• It is essential because it provides an intuitive, standardized way to implement control logic that aligns with IEC 61131-3 standards, making it easier for engineers to collaborate and maintain systems over time
• Related to: programmable-logic-controller, ladder-logic

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Structured Text

Developers should learn Structured Text when working in industrial automation, manufacturing, or process control environments where PLCs are used, as it is essential for programming advanced control logic, mathematical computations, and data handling

Pros

• It is particularly valuable for applications requiring complex algorithms, such as motion control, batch processing, or supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, where ladder logic or other IEC 61131-3 languages may be less efficient
• Related to: programmable-logic-controllers, industrial-automation

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Function Block Diagram is a concept while Structured Text is a language. We picked Function Block Diagram based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Function Block Diagram wins

Based on overall popularity. Function Block Diagram is more widely used, but Structured Text excels in its own space.