Common programming software for industrial control computers
Industrial control computer (ICC) programs refer to programs used in specialized fields such as automation control, data acquisition, and production monitoring. Creating these programs requires specialized programming software. This article will introduce several common ICC programming software programs and analyze their characteristics and applications.
GX Works
GX Works is a general-purpose programming software for Mitsubishi PLCs and other industrial control equipment. It supports a range of Mitsubishi devices, including the Q series, FX series, and L series PLCs. GX Works supports multiple programming languages, including LD, IL, and SFC, allowing programmers to flexibly combine these languages to implement their specific application scenarios. GX Works also supports simulation and debugging functions, enabling programmers to test their code before it is deployed to actual equipment.
Codesys
CodeSy is a hardware-platform-independent general-purpose automation software development environment that can be used for programming various industrial control equipment, including PLCs, control panels, workstations, and industrial computers. CodeSy supports multiple programming languages, including ST, LD, IL, and FBD. CodeSy also provides complete simulation and debugging capabilities.
LabVIEW
LabVIEW is a visual programming language frequently used in automation control and data acquisition. LabVIEW supports graphical programming development, allowing programmers to write programs by dragging and dropping icon components. LabVIEW also boasts excellent extensibility; it's common to develop custom toolkits and plugins to extend software functionality.
Visual Studio
Visual Studio is a comprehensive programming toolset applicable to a variety of programming scenarios. It supports multiple programming languages, including C# and C++, and can quickly create Windows applications, web services, and cloud applications. Unlike the aforementioned industrial control equipment programming software, Visual Studio itself is not designed for industrial control equipment, but it can support certain controllers through third-party plugins and, with appropriate settings, can also be used for industrial control programming.
It's important to note that besides these general-purpose industrial PC programming software programs, some manufacturers offer dedicated programming software for their own devices, such as Siemens' Step7 and ABB's Control Builder. For these specific programming software programs, programmers need to adapt to the software's unique environment and language.
Industrial PC programming is a specialized task that requires a specific programming environment and tools. Various programming software programs differ in terms of supported devices, programming languages, and functionalities. Programmers need to select the optimal programming software based on their specific needs to efficiently and safely develop high-quality industrial PC programs.
