10 Questions
What type of expansion cards are used to connect computers to transducers and actuators in automation?
Specific expansion cards
Why are industrial PCs preferred in environments where standard personal computers are not suitable?
Due to the presence of dust and different temperatures
What is a key design feature of industrial PCs that helps them withstand harsh environments?
Special cooling systems
What is the primary purpose of connecting computers to sensors and actuators in automation?
To monitor processes and perform appropriate actions
Why do industrial PCs use electronic components of higher quality compared to standard personal computers?
To withstand harsh environmental conditions
What is the main reason for using microcontrollers in automation processes?
Microcontrollers are cheaper and simpler than industrial personal computers
What is the main advantage of using an 'embedded' card in workplaces where human-machine interaction is infrequent?
Embedded cards do not require a monitor, mouse and keyboard, which saves money and space
What is the primary difference between microcontrollers and PLCs in industrial applications?
Microcontrollers require more electronic components to interface with high-voltage devices, while PLCs have the necessary power electronics integrated
What is the typical process for updating and maintaining the software on an embedded system?
The embedded system is connected to a personal computer to transfer the software updates developed on the PC
What is the primary purpose of using high-level programming languages like C to program microcontrollers?
High-level languages allow for easier development and maintenance of microcontroller software
Study Notes
Using PCs in Automation
- Computers, often personal computers, can be used in automation as a machine for process control, connected to sensors and actuators through specific expansion cards.
- Industrial PCs are designed to withstand harsh environment changes, such as temperature, dust, humidity, vibration, and power surges, and are equipped with high-quality electronic components and a special cooling system.
Microcontrollers
- Microcontrollers are single-chip computers, equipped with a microprocessor, memory, and input/output, and are often programmed with high-level languages like C.
- They require very few electronic components to interface with the outside world, except when controlling devices powered at 220 volts or higher.
- Microcontrollers have replaced costly industrial PCs with simpler and cheaper cards in automation process control.
Embedded Systems
- Embedded systems are preferred in workplaces where human interaction is non-existent or infrequent, as they do not require a monitor, mouse, and keyboard.
- The program is loaded onto the card, and the system is included in the program to be controlled.
- The majority of embedded systems are based on microcontrollers, and their programming is achieved by using a personal computer.
Programming and Maintenance
- Embedded system programs are developed on a personal computer and then loaded onto the card through a serial, USB, or local network link.
- Updates and maintenance are carried out by connecting the card to a personal computer via a communication port and transferring the updates developed on the PC card.
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- PLCs are employed in industrial processes to manage greater power and execute a program processing analogue and digital signals from transducers and generating them to actuators.
- PLCs are specifically designed for industrial applications and contain power electronic devices to drive devices supplied with 220 volts or higher.
Learn about how personal computers are utilized in automation for process control, connected to sensors and actuators through expansion cards. Understand the role of microcontrollers in this setup.
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