Understanding the Automation Application

Effective PLC and software engineering starts with understanding what the machine or production process needs to achieve.

Before developing or supporting the control solution, the engineering team may need to understand:

• What the machine or process needs to do
• What equipment needs to be controlled
• How motion and other automation equipment are involved
• What production information is required
• How the control system fits into the wider manufacturing process

PLC and Control Engineering Support

PLC engineering supports the control logic and coordination required within automated machines and production systems. The PLC may need to work with motion systems, operator interfaces, actuators and other automation equipment depending on the application.

Manufacturers should therefore consider whether the engineering partner can support the PLC within the wider automation system rather than only provide individual components.

Our electronic control components portfolio supports broader industrial control requirements, while our engineering team focuses on how relevant control technologies fit into the automation application.

Software Engineering for Industrial Automation

Industrial automation software can support how manufacturers monitor, control and use information from machines and production processes.

Depending on the application, software engineering support may relate to:

• Production monitoring
• Machine data collection
• Process control
• Traceability
• Dashboard and reporting requirements
• Manufacturing integration
• Smart factory connectivity

The exact software requirements should be based on what information the manufacturing process needs and how that information will be used.

Our industrial software solutions support relevant monitoring, data collection, traceability and manufacturing-integration requirements.

Integrating PLC, Software and Automation Equipment

PLC and software engineering becomes especially important when several automation technologies need to work together. A control system may need to coordinate machine movement, robotics, inspection, assembly equipment and production information within the same process.

Implementation and Commissioning Support

Manufacturers should also evaluate how involved the engineering partner will be during implementation. PLC and software engineering often needs to continue through integration and commissioning rather than ending when the initial control work is completed.

Relevant project support may include:

• Application engineering
• PLC and software support
• System integration
• Implementation support
• Installation assistance
• Commissioning support

The exact scope depends on the project, so responsibilities should be defined according to the automation application and implementation requirements.

Training, Troubleshooting and After-Sales Support

Engineering support remains important after the automation system has been implemented. Manufacturers should consider whether technical assistance is available when their teams need clarification, troubleshooting or continued support.

This continued access to technical support is an important factor when comparing PLC and software engineering partners.