Phoenix Contact's first PLCnext Control device available on RS, the AXC F 2152, features a high-performance 800 MHz dual-core ARM Cortex processor with 512 MB of memory. Housed in a rugged, compact 127 x 45 x 75 mm enclosure, it also includes an OPC UA server, fieldbus manager, diagnostic loggers, trace controllers, and automatic access to Phoenix Contact's direct cloud connection, Proficloud.
The PLCnext platform is an improvement over traditional IEC 61131 PLC programming, as it allows developers to program using various high-level languages. Open-source software and applications can be integrated into the system with complete flexibility. Real-time operation and data consistency associated with device-specific PLC coding are maintained, while limitations are eliminated.
Multiple developers can work independently with their preferred development tools, and their respective contributions are seamlessly integrated into a single project. Consequently, applications can be developed considerably faster than before.
PLCnext Control is based on an embedded Linux architecture, which has been extended to include real-time capabilities in its kernel. Linux is stable, supports secure communications, and, because it runs on many different hardware platforms, allows for scalability and the use of future processor architectures.
The PLCnext Engineer engineering software platform uses automation and object-oriented programming modules to provide a single, streamlined user interface for all engineering tasks, saving time and costs in both training and project development. Consistent operation worldwide is ensured by compliance with IEC 61131-3, while the functional reliability of the programming is certified according to IEC 61508.
