Controllers

I/O

A-B Upgrades/Software

Communication

Operator Interfaces

Controllers : Micro SoftPLC's

Micro SoftPLC in Hand

Micro SoftPLC's are a family of open architecture controller CPU's that can connect to a wide variety of I/O and communication networks. Physically small, but functionally huge, Micro SoftPLC PAC's (Programmable Automation Controllers) provide a low cost control platform for applications ranging from machine control to RTUs. Micro SoftPLC's are customized at the factory to application specific configurations and include hardware assembly, driver installation, system software configuration, and system level testing for the best out-of-the-box solution with an open architecture system.

Micro SoftPLC in optional enclosure

Micro SoftPLC's are perfect for:

  • Embedded machine control - Great for OEM's!
  • Cellular RTU - Combined with TagWell, you can monitor and control remotely located systems at very low cost!
  • Remote Data Logger
  • Inexpensive serial to ethernet protocol converter
  • and more!

    Overview

    Micro SoftPLC models include the functions/features of all SoftPLC controllers, including:

    • Deterministic, high speed program execution
    • “Unlimited” user logic and data table memory
    • Ladder logic and data table addressing similar to Allen-Bradley PLC-5/SLC-500
    • Fully documented applications, all documentation resides in the controller
    • Supports user functions written in C++
    • Compatible with all HMI/SCADA products
    • Embedded firewall with VPN capability for advanced network security
    • Industry standard protocols for communications and I/O (eg: ModbusTCP/UDP, A-B Ethernet, DF1, Modbus RTU/ASCII, and others)
    • Embedded web server option

    Hardware Features

    • Ethernet and USB communication ports, optional serial port(s)
    • Low power requirement, industrial rated environmental specifications
    • 512MB RAM
    • 4GB on-board flash
    • Removable SD Flash(up to 8GB available)
    • Expansion connectors for add-on I/O boards, communication ports, or specialty interfaces

    Specifications

    The SoftPLC-BB (Models No SPBB-x) is the bare-board CPU. Equip it with a SoftPLC runtime control software size (see table below), then add your desired hardware and firmware options (see next tab). Each system is assembled and configured with all of your selected options, then undergoes a system-level test prior to shipment.

    Specifications:

    • CPU - 1GHz ARM8
    • Memory - 512MB RAM
    • Storage - 4GB onboard flash, MicroSD up to 8GB optional
    • USB 2.0 host
    • Micro USB 2.0 client (for power & communications)
      MicroUSB to USB cable included
    • 10/100MB Ethernet port, RJ-45 connector
    • Power by +5 VDC through barrel connector (eg: using ICO-PSW105) or USB device port
    • Low power, less than 1W - ideal for solar powered applications
    • Size - 3.4” x 2.1” (86.36 x 53.34 mm), With optional enclosure (Cat No SPBB-ENCL1) 2.4" x 0.82" x 3.54" (62 x 21 x 90 mm)

    Available Runtime Sizes

    There are (4) SoftPLC firmware runtime sizes, where runtime size determines the maximum supported number of digital I/O points and ModbusTCP servers (analog I/O is limited only by hardware, not firmware). The table below summarizes these choices.

    To order a SoftPLC-BB, append the Runtime License Size suffix in the first column of the table to the model number. For example, SPBB-1K is a SoftPLC-BB capable of up to 1024 DI/DO and/or 16 ModbusTCP Servers.

    Runtime License Sizes
    Cat No Suffix ModbusTCP Servers Discrete Inputs Discrete Outputs
    LT 2 128 128
    1K 16 1024 1024
    2K 32 2048 2048
    8K 127 8192 8192

    Options & Accessories

    Available SoftPLC Model BB Options:

    • Firmware Options - software enabled capabilities that can be added to any SoftPLC. There's so many, we've put them on their own page!
    • Hardware Add-ons & Accessories - The options listed below are standard available products. For OEM or other applications requiring multiple units, we can develop new I/O interface boards very quickly from our base design. If you don't see what you need (eg: your requirement is for more/less points, or a different mix of signals), contact us to discuss details.

    Catalog Number Description Image Data Sheet Store
    SPBB-232 RS-232 serial port, 9 pin RS-232 communication port for drivers such as Modbus, DF1, or COMGENIUS.
    SPBB-ENCL1 Compact, plated and scratch-resistant steel chassis.
    SPBB-6DI2SP1AI Daughter Board, (6) 5-12VDC digital inputs, 5 or 12VDC power output, 12V input power, (2) RS-232C serial ports, SDI-12 interface
    ICO-PSW105 Input Voltage VAC: 100V to 240V


    I/O and System Configurations

    Micro SoftPLC CPU's can be used with a wide variety of I/O and other devices. Any Ethernet or USB remote I/O can be used providing a SoftPLC driver exists. With an added serial port interface, serial I/O is also an option, such as Modbus compatible products. Local I/O boards can be installed on the CPU for applications with special needs, low I/O counts, etc. Many drivers exist, or can be developed using the SoftPLC Programmer's Toolkit. Multiple I/O types can be used with a single controller.

    Examples:

    • ModbusTCP Ethernet I/O (eg: A Series)
    • Modbus via an added RS-485 port (eg: A Series)
    • Local I/O (see Options & Accessories tab)