Can an automation system be more than just the sum of its parts? Barry Weller of Mitsubishi Electric argues that it can and that the age of the PLC platform is now bringing a host of benefits that extend far beyond ease of programming and simplicity of integration for machine builders Replacements and upgrades aside, it is rare today that automation components are purchased in isolation. More commonly, a mix of controllers, PLCs, inverters, servo components, networking cards, HMIs, I/O modules, will be purchased as a total solution, building a system for machine control, process control, positioning, production line automation and even factory-wide coordination. Of course, this should come as no surprise. Most automation vendors will argue the benefits of buying multiple components from one vendor, citing the elimination of compatibility issues and the availability of common programming platforms. Indeed these are all perfectly legitimate arguments to focus on one brand. However, even a system of closely matched components can only take you so far. The real benefits come once you look at the possibilities of a complete automation platform.
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