No-Code PLCs for Edge and IIoT Applications
Capture and use data at the edge with no-code, programmable logic controllers that feature embedded logic, data logging, and cloud compatibility. A built-in web server and intuitive drop-down interface simplify setup and support email notifications, advanced security settings, P2P communication, and multiple protocols. On-board logic is programmed using drop-down menus through “if this, then that” style conditions—no code required.
ControlByWeb® PLC Devices
Modular PLCs
X-600M™
X-400™ & X-400C™
Standalone PLCs
The Perfect Edge PLC
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has made monitoring and control at the edge possible and cost-effective. But remote access is not the only criteria for the right edge or micro PLC. Here are the features needed to make the perfect programmable logic controller for the Edge.
On-Board Logic
Logic is stored on the device to improve reliability regardless of network connectivity.
Remote Notifications
Edge applications are often in remote places. Even when they’re not, notifying key personnel of important conditions is critical. Our PLCs include email notifications so important updates are made in near real time.
Easy Integration
Multiple protocols are necessary to be compatible with various control systems. We support MQTT, Modbus TCP/IP, HTTP, JSON, XML, and SNMP.
Optional Cloud Compatibility
Cloud services can improve data access and enhances system integration. Our devices are compatible with the ControlByWeb Cloud and third-party services.
Flexible Application
ControlByWeb PLCs are built for flexibility. Most PLCs can be used in various applications, but we add flexibility in two important ways: ease of use and cost to own. This makes our PLCs a better fit for more applications—especially where speed and cost of programming, cost to deploy and maintain, and technical fit all need to be carefully considered.
Integration Ready
A big part of the genesis of our brand, ControlByWeb, was the ability to integrate with other systems efficiently. We looked forward then, just as we do now. Our devices use a variety of industrial and IT protocols including MQTT, Modbus TCP/IP, and SNMP. We also communicate using the very flexible and ubiquitous Hypertext Transfer Protocol, or HTTP. ControlByWeb PLCs include an embedded web server, so software developers can very easily poll our devices, set relay states, change register values, and more through a simple Get request.
How To Program Our No-Code PLC
Programming a PLC is typically a specialized task requiring a skilled engineer who isn’t always available. Even so-called “easy-to-use” PLCs on the market require Ladder Logic, Function Block, or some kind of diagram building with complex code, scripts, and a mountain of settings. On top of all that, most PLC user interfaces are overloaded with options, menus, sub-menus, wizards, modals, etc.
Our no-code PLCs use a very simple user interface with an uncomplicated, single menu system on the left-hand side. Most users will simply start at the top section and fill in the fields as they move down.
Programming logic is one of the simplest tasks for our users. Choose between scheduled or conditional tasks and use drop-down menus to select prebuilt options. These options are very straightforward, including turning relays on and off, sending email alerts, or logging a change under specific conditions.
Learn more about programming ControlByWeb PLCs.
Application Spotlight: Agriculture
Perishable produce is just that: food that is easily spoiled if exposed to conditions outside of a specific range. Too much light, a fluctuation in temperature, or exposure to bacteria can make produce unfit to make it to market. That’s why it’s so important to maintain the just-right environment as fruits and vegetables go from harvest to the grocery store. And no device is better at monitoring all these variables than a PLC.
PLCs play a key role in agricultural temperature and humidity control. They’re often connected to finely tuned equipment to monitor and control temperature, humidity, airflow, and CO2. They’re doing what PLCs do best—monitoring sensor data and using that data to control connected fans, lighting, HVAC units, and motorized doors and vents.
This ControlByWeb case study highlights Control System Designer Thad Failor, who built an all-in-one control panel that, in part, uses a ControlByWeb PLC. Our hardware allows the control panel to monitor crop storage ventilation equipment. Thad said that “the whole system together gives the storage manager the tools they need to be able to successfully store the product at the optimal conditions.”