Industrial PC vs Programmable Logic Controller

Developers should learn about Industrial PCs when working on industrial automation, IoT, or embedded systems projects that require robust hardware in challenging conditions meets developers should learn plc programming when working in industrial automation, manufacturing, or control systems engineering, as it enables the automation of machinery and processes in factories, power plants, and infrastructure. Here's our take.

Industrial PC

Nice Pick

Developers should learn about Industrial PCs when working on industrial automation, IoT, or embedded systems projects that require robust hardware in challenging conditions

Pros

• They are essential for implementing real-time control, machine vision, and SCADA systems in manufacturing, energy, and transportation sectors, where reliability and longevity are critical
• Related to: industrial-automation, embedded-systems

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

Programmable Logic Controller

Developers should learn PLC programming when working in industrial automation, manufacturing, or control systems engineering, as it enables the automation of machinery and processes in factories, power plants, and infrastructure

Pros

• It is crucial for applications requiring robust, real-time control with high reliability, such as in automotive assembly, food processing, or water treatment plants, where PLCs handle tasks like motor control, sensor monitoring, and safety interlocks
• Related to: ladder-logic, industrial-automation

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Industrial PC is a platform while Programmable Logic Controller is a tool. We picked Industrial PC based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Industrial PC wins

Based on overall popularity. Industrial PC is more widely used, but Programmable Logic Controller excels in its own space.