Beckhoff Redesigns Programmable Logic With New PLC++ Platform

Recently, control automation leader Beckhoff announced the release of the new TwinCAT PLC++ platform, combining new compiler technology and architecture with promises of faster runtime and eningeering integration in DevOps.

IPC To PLC… Back To IPC

Beckhoff is a well-known supplier of IPCs (industrial PC) used in automation along with I/O components, motion systems, and vision systems. Beckhoff’s PCs run the TwinCAT software that allows technicians to develop automation applications that are often used in automated assembly or laboratory applications.

The TwinCAT software complies with the IEC 61131-3 programming standard, so all the familiar programming languages are supported. Where Beckhoff differs from other PLC manufacturers is the connection between IT and OT. Beckhoff tries to close the gap between the IT world and the OT world by offering automation architecture on common PC platforms. (We even have a tutorial article for those who want to learn more about this PC-based automation)

TwinCAT PLC++ Image used courtesy of Beckhoff

Faster Runtime

In automation, speed is everything, including the speed of your control system. If you can increase the runtime speed of your control system, then you can make decisions faster and possibly reduce cycle time.

The new TwinCAT PLC++ promises to execute code up to twice as fast as previous versions of TwinCAT PLC. This increase in runtime speeds allows technicians to run automation programs on less powerful computer systems resulting in cost savings on hardware. The faster runtime also contributes to a more efficient system and frees up computer resources that could be used for other applications.

A variety of industrial PCs offered by Beckhoff. Image used courtesy of Beckhoff

Integration Into DevOps

Git and DevOps are source control software that allows developers to continuously track and test development changes. Other PLCs on the market store their code in locked or encrypted files that cannot be accessed by third-party source control software. The TwinCAT PLC++ software stores the PLC program in a plain text file. This file can easily be checked into DevOps or virtually any other source control software and be adopted into the existing workflow.

The new compiler with TwinCAT PLC++ is now offered as a stand-alone component that can be executed through a command line interface. This feature allows compatibility with unit testing and automated code generation.

TwinCAT PLC++ Architecture Integrated Into TwinCAT

While Beckhoff has not announced what the TwinCAT PLC++ architecture will look like as of writing this article, they do mention that the hardware will be integrated into the TwinCAT family of software with features like TwinCAT HMI and TwinCAT Target Browser. Both of these software options will have full access to the variables within the PLC without compiling or executing the program code. This allows for a full offline project development without the need for hardware.

PC-Based Control Technology

The concept of using PCs to control automation equipment is not new. PCs have been used in automation since the mid 1990s and even before then. Although PLCs from most major automation manufacturers use popular chipsets from makers like Intel today, they still cannot run PC applications.

The TwinCAT platform bridges the gap between IT and OT, using standard IT equipment along with the TwinCAT software suite to control physical devices. The advantage of this style of control system is not having to buy expensive, purpose-built devices like a PLC, the TwinCAT software can run on virtually any compatible PC. The new TwinCAT PLC++ system features faster runtime with the ability to integrate into DevOps and make use of its powerful workflow. The TwinCAT PLC++ system will provide technicians with a vehicle to advance their automation application performance and create a tighter connection with the IT world.