Programmable automation controller - or PAC - is the new name for a multi-domain, networkable, single database industrial automation and control system
Though often compared to a PLC, a PLC it's not.
PACs are multifunctional, handling the digital, analogue and serial signals common in all types of industrial applications.
From changing simple on/off states, to running complex PID algorithms for temperature control, to gathering data from RFiD tags - PACs handle many functions at once.
PACs cross traditional domains.
The same hardware is equally useful in data collection, remote monitoring, process control, and discrete and hybrid manufacturing.
Simple-to-use software makes it easy to customise PACs for your requirements.
For maximum integration with the enterprise and lower implementation costs, PACs use standard IT components and protocols.
Ethernet networking hardware is inexpensive, readily available, and well understood.
Standard internet protocols such as IP, TCP, UDP, FTP, SNMP, and SMTP are already used by enterprise computers.
PACs handle many types of tasks simultaneously.
In addition to controlling processes, each independently reading and writing to system variables and devices, a PAC can also communicate with multiple clients using a variety of standard communication protocols.
PAC modularity places intelligence where it is needed, distributed throughout the system.
Distributed processing means that counting and PID loops, for example, operate independently on I/O units, leaving the main controller free to oversee the system.
With flexible modular design, you can add or change distributed units easily.
Because the software code always refers to logical representations of I/O points, the physical locations of points can be changed without disturbing code.
PACs' ability to exchange data with other vendors' hardware and software means lower integration costs.
Data exchange using OLE for Process Control (OPC), for example, makes it easy to read and write to I/O points and variables the PAC is managing.
OK, so what differentiate Opto 22 PACs from other manufacturer's offerings?.
Well, apart from providing all the features above, as a good PAC should, how about: A feature rich Scada system for free, integration kits for Modbus RS485, Modbus/TCP and Allen Bradley DF1 for free, technical support for the complete range of products for free, majority of Snap I/O modules with a life time warranty for free.
