How CompactRIO Compares to a PLC
Introduction In the world of industrial automation and control systems, the choice between different hardware platforms can be a critical...
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CompactRIO
What is CompactRIO?
CompactRIO systems provide high-performance processing capabilities, sensor-specific conditioned I/O, and a closely integrated software toolchain that make them ideal for Industrial Internet of Things, monitoring, and control applications. The real-time processor offers reliable, predictable behavior, while the FPGA excels at smaller tasks that require high-speed logic and precise timing.
Why Choose CompactRIO?
CompactRIO hardware provides an industrial control and monitoring solution using sensor- or protocol-specific, conditioned I/O modules with real-time capabilities.
Best for
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Real-time processing needs
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Industrial monitoring and control applications
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Deployed & Rugged Environments
CompactRIO Chassis
The CompactRIO chassis is the center of the integrated system architecture. It is directly connected to the I/O for high-performance access to the I/O circuitry of each module and timing, triggering, and synchronization.
Because each module is connected directly to the FPGA rather than through a bus, you experience almost no control latency for system response compared to other controller architectures.
CompactRIO Modules
I/O modules contain isolation, conversion circuitry, signal conditioning, and built-in connectivity for direct connection to industrial sensors/actuators. By offering a variety of wiring options and integrating the connector junction box into the modules, the CompactRIO system significantly reduces space requirements and field-wiring costs. You can choose from more than 70 NI C Series I/O modules for CompactRIO to connect to almost any sensor or actuator.
Programming CompactRIO with LabVIEW
Overcome traditional architecture programming challenges with LabVIEW for writing powerful Real-Time applications and LabVIEW FPGA for writing and compiling FPGA Code. With this combination, you can develop your system faster by programming both the processor and FPGA with a single, intuitive software toolchain. Focus on solving problems, not low-level programming tasks, with integrated user-friendly software that reduces risk, enhances productivity, and eliminates the need to create and maintain I/O drivers, OS configuration, and other middleware.
Available CompactRIO models
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