Feature |
PCs |
PLCs |
RTUs |
DCSs |
PACs |
Industrially hardened hardware |
|
x |
x |
x |
x |
Discrete control/sequential control |
|
x |
x |
|
x |
Process control (batch and continuous) |
x |
x |
|
x |
x |
Remote monitoring & control, SCADA |
|
x |
x |
|
x |
Motion control |
x |
|
|
|
x |
Multi-domain capabilities (One controller performs logic, process control, discrete control, motion control, monitoring, and data acquisition.) |
x |
|
|
|
x |
Distributed control functions to reduce load on central controller (examples: PID loop control, pulse generation, latching, events and alarms) |
|
|
|
x |
x |
Critical local operations continue in the event of a communication failure. |
|
|
|
x |
x |
Multifunction (Meet complex requirements without add-ons or middleware.) |
|
|
|
|
x |
Multitasking |
x |
|
|
|
x |
Efficient processing and I/O scanning (PACs scan only when logic requires it, thus reducing data polling and network traffic.) |
x |
|
|
x |
x |
Data-intensive applications such as recipe or batch processes; recipe switching |
x |
x |
|
x |
x |
Floating-point math |
x |
x |
|
x |
x |
Compact, high-density system |
|
x |
|
|
x |
Flexible, modular architecture (Use same hardware in small or large system; easily expand system with additional modules.) |
|
|
|
|
x |
Extensive communication options |
x |
|
x |
|
x |
Open languages and standard protocols |
x |
x |
|
|
x |
Open, standard network interfaces |
x |
|
|
|
x |
Easy support for multiple vendors' hardware & software |
x |
|
|
|
x |
Integrated hardware and software |
|
|
|
x |
x |
Integrated development environment for all applications (Discrete, analog, serial, motion, etc. Reduces programming effort/time.) |
|
|
|
|
x |
Common tagname database (No retyping or cross-reference lists.) |
|
x |
|
|
x |
Long, plain-language tagnames |
|
|
|
|
x |