Which PLC 1

[morrisl]

I am unsure which PLC to go for a job that has 20 inputs and 20 outputs (simple sequence needed), software cost seems to become a major factor as I only do several projects a year.

I have very little PLC experience, I have used the AB05 and Mitsubishi FX series many years ago and recently did several project using the Mitsubishi alpha 2.

Siemens S7 series looks good with cheap software, I have downloaded the demo software and it looks more difficult than Mitsubishi software.

Morris

 

[jonesy29847]

Try Automation Direct, the programming S/W is cheap (inexpensive), it supports the entire family, and its easy to use.

We use them in our stamping plants for assy equipment.

http://web2.automationdirect.com/adc/Home/Home

 

[morrisl]

They look vary suitable will take a look at the specs.

Morris

 

[morrisl]

I have looked at the specs and they look Exactly what is required for my next job, The DL06 would be the one to go for just in case I need more I/O or a special function.

The prices may make the job profitable, Thanks

Morris

 

[entertronplcs]

Automation Direct is a safe choice.

If you are still considering other options, we offer free software with our controllers.

You can learn more at our web site -

http://www.entertron.com

Hope this helps.

God Bless,

Stephen

 

[BigWallyB]

Hope I'm not too late to chime in. You have used the Mitsubishi FX series and the software to program them is free on the website. FX's are reasonably priced, quality products. Why not use them?

I have no vested interest here. Just have used Mitsi's for some years.


Life is what happens while we're making other plans.

Wally

 

[xyzz]

BigWallyB is right.
What's wrong with Mitsubishi FX1S?

 

[morrisl]

I have had alook at the Mitsubishi site , i only see the demo software ?.

 

[crusty91]

Try Automation Direct. They are fairly inexpensive.

 

[ozchevy]

Hello Morris,
This is my first post to the forums, and hope to gain some valuable info myself. I have found this program most valuable if you want to create your own ladder diagrams and create the necessary program for running PLC's.

C:\TRiLOGIEDU\TL5\public\help\content.htm

Regards,
Geoff (Sydney Australia)

 

[JAB1961]

You might consider Moeller easy relay, the software is very easy to use and cost arount $50.00.
The programable relay is about $300.00
Plus a expansion unit for another $150.00

http://www.moellerusa.net/

I have no intrest in Moeller just their relays to automate equiptment.

 

[HenryLamboo]

If you didn't make a choice yet you can also go for unitronics. The hardware is cheap and the software is free. All OPLC's have a userinterface.
They have a good helpdesk.

 

[itsmoked]

I had to hear about this forum to know it existed because it's not listed in the "browse forums"!?! Only down the left side of the page.. strange.

But to the point:

Do check out the TWIDO.

http://www.modicon.com/PLCIO/twido/

Look at the starter packs! They come with everything including the software for a couple hundred bucks. I believe you can even program it thru Bluetooth from a laptop(no hookup).

They are made specifically for jobs with lots of "sequence" that stand alone. oem applications.

 

[skills]

You may also want to check out the systems at ezautomation.net. I use the ezplc and am currently using the eztext-plc. I like having the common text panel software and database imported into the plc development software. Also, it is designed and manufactured in Iowa. The i/o modules I've used are very reliable and hardy. The i/o is limited to 32 on the systems I use.

 

[skills]

I forgot to mention that the plc software is $49, next to free and reminds me of RSlogix for AB stuff only different. It is simple to use and the plc only has 55 straightforward instructions; but, seems to do everything we need.

 

[plcsavvy]

If you go with automation direct, make sure that the digital outputs suppply enough current for your application. For example a koyo 205 plc I recently used could not source enough current to power a stacklight!
I then opted to use a solid state relay between the output and stack light.


best regards, plcsavvy

 

[OldPfart]

The TWIDO is OK (re-badged Izumi) but the software is absolutely atrocious!!! Gave it away a long time ago because of the dreadful software.

Shame because the PLC is OK for simple jobs.

 

[itsmoked]

Dang! Thanks for that info OldPfart..

Customer demanded Modicon anyway so I went with the Momentum.