Arduino OPTA PLC
The Introduction of Arduino PLC ID
When I first heard about the Arduino PLC ID, I was quite surprised. Up until now, initiatives to integrate PLC with Arduino have primarily come from third party vendors, not Arduino themselves. However, Arduino has now announced their own Arduino PLC ID, and they have also introduced their new Arduino opta plc. In this article, we will provide a first impression of the hardware and discuss the differences between the Arduino PLC ID and the Arduino portenta machine control.
Unboxing the Arduino PLC ID
Let’s start with a simple and quick unboxing of the Arduino PLC ID. The device comes in a small and Spartan box, which gives the impression of a compact and no-frills product. Upon opening the box, you will find an instruction manual. Interestingly, the first language in the manual is Italiano, but for the purpose of this article, we will skip the Italian greeting and jump straight into examining the device itself.
Impressions of the Hardware
Upon first inspection, the Arduino PLC ID gives off a sense of sturdiness. The device feels solid and well-built, giving the impression that it can withstand the demands of industrial applications. The design is sleek and minimalistic, which is in line with Arduino’s aesthetic. It is clear that Arduino has taken care in designing a product that not only performs well but also looks good.
Comparing Arduino PLC ID to Arduino Portenta Machine Control
In a previous video, we explored the Arduino Portenta Machine Control. Now, with the Arduino PLC ID, let us compare the two and see what sets them apart. The second video in this series will focus on connecting the Arduino PLC ID to a development machine and exploring its unique features.
It is worth mentioning that Arduino sent me this PLC for review, without any monetary exchange. Arduino has not seen this video prior to its release, ensuring an unbiased evaluation of the product.
The Arduino PLC: A Maintenance-Free Industrial Solution
Partnering with Finder: A Wise Decision
The Arduino PLC is a collaboration between Arduino and Finder, a renowned industrial and building automation device manufacturer with a rich history of 70 years. Arduino’s decision to partner with Finder indicates their intention to provide a high-quality and reliable product in the industrial automation field.
Arduino Opta: Three Variants
The Arduino Opta comes in three different variants, each offering unique features and capabilities.
Variant 1: Optolite
The Optolite variant provides four high-power relays, each capable of handling up to 250 volts AC and 10 amps. In addition, it offers eight configurable digital analog inputs, fieldbus integration through Modbus TCP, and a USB-C port for easy programming.
Variant 2: Opta RS 485
The Opta RS 485 variant includes all the features of the Optolite, with the addition of an RS485 interface. This interface allows seamless integration with other devices through Modbus RDU.
Variant 3: Opta Wi-Fi
The Opta Wi-Fi is the most advanced variant, offering all the features of Opta RS 485, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity options. This enables IoT connectivity and opens up a world of possibilities for remote monitoring and control.
Unleashing the Potential of the Arduino PLCs
The Arduino PLCs, including the Opta series, offer limitless potential in various industrial applications. Just like the Arduino Portenta machine control, these PLCs can be used to automate and optimize processes across industries.
The Power of Dual Core MCU in PLCs
PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) are an essential component in modern automation systems. These devices act as a brain, controlling various machinery and processes. One key feature that sets advanced PLCs apart is the integration of a dual core MCU (Microcontroller Unit). Let’s explore the power and possibilities that come with this technology.
Unleashing the Full Potential
Unlike traditional PLCs that rely on single core processors, the dual core MCU in these advanced variants brings enhanced performance to the table. With one core running at 240 megahertz and the other at a staggering 480 megahertz, these PLCs offer speedy and efficient execution of complex tasks.
The Arduino PLC IDE
One of the remarkable aspects of these dual core MCU PLCs is their compatibility with the Arduino PLC IDE. This integrated development environment supports all five languages of the ISE 61131 3 standard. The Arduino PLC IDE empowers engineers and developers to easily program and control the functionality of these advanced PLCs.
A Glimpse at the IDE
If you’re curious about the Arduino PLC IDE, you can head over to the provided link and check out a video that gives you an initial impression of the platform. The IDE not only enables you to program the PLC but also provides a comprehensive overview of running PLC code.
Maximum Flexibility with Arduino Sketches
Similar to various other Arduino boards, these dual core MCU PLCs offer the flexibility to run traditional Arduino sketches. This capability opens up a wide range of possibilities. You can leverage existing Arduino projects and combine them with PLC functionality, giving you maximum control and adaptability.
Connectivity to IoT Cloud
Connecting your Arduino PLC to the IoT (Internet of Things) cloud is yet another exciting feature. By integrating with IoT cloud platforms, you can access real-time data, remotely monitor your system, and make informed decisions. The Arduino PLC’s connectivity further expands its capabilities in the realm of automation and control.
What’s Next?
In the upcoming part, we will explore the process of connecting devices and writing code for the Arduino PLC. We will dive into compiling and uploading software to unleash the true potential of this remarkable device. Stay tuned for an in-depth exploration of the practical aspects of these dual core MCU PLCs.
The introduction of the Arduino PLC ID is a significant step for Arduino in the field of industrial automation. The device showcases Arduino’s commitment to providing reliable and robust solutions for machine control. With its sturdy build and sleek design, the Arduino PLC ID holds promise for those seeking a reliable PLC solution. In the next video, we will delve deeper into the features and capabilities of the Arduino PLC ID, providing a comprehensive review of its performance in various applications.
With its partnership with Finder, Arduino has strengthened its position in the industrial automation market. The Arduino PLCs, particularly the Opta series, provide a maintenance-free solution with versatile connectivity options. Whether it’s the Optolite, Opta RS 485, or Opta Wi-Fi, these PLCs offer reliable and efficient automation capabilities, making them ideal for a wide range of industrial applications.
