Beckhoff introduces TwinCAT PLC++

TwinCAT PLC++: Next generation PLC technology

TwinCAT PLC++ is a completely new development from Beckhoff that integrates seamlessly into the existing TwinCAT ecosystem. TwinCAT PLC++ continues to be based on the languages described in IEC 61131-3. The advanced compiler technology and the new architecture used, a significant leap in engineering and runtime performance can be achieved.

Along with new features, familiar and proven functions have been preserved, key components of the development environment, such as editors and compilers based on IT models, have been reworked. Particular emphasis is placed on the ability to use DevOps principles to implement continuous integration and continuous deployment. In general, there was a particular emphasis on the specific needs of users. Overall: TwinCAT PLC++ is extremely advanced in terms of technology and perfectly adapted to practical requirements.

TwinCAT PLC++ offers significant runtime performance compared to the previous TwinCAT PLC. With the same control code, it can be executed up to twice as fast as before. This is as a result of the work of the new compiler which makes it possible to further optimize this control code in terms of execution time. This means that an industrial computer, which usually has less processing power, can be sufficient for the previous machine control system, thus reducing hardware costs.

A programming assistant based on TwinCAT Chat provides enhanced support for developers, providing extensible code snippets, smart shortcut functions for guided code creation, online-offline code comparison, and a set of favorites. This allows developers to work even more efficiently than before, thereby shortening the development cycle and reducing time to market.

With TwinCAT PLC++, program code is now stored in plain text at the file level. This simplifies the system of the source code control system like Git, since the synchronization of different versions of the code is particularly easy and intuitive. Moreover, the new compiler is available as a stand-alone component and can be invoked automatically via a command-line interface. TwinCAT PLC++ now offers an excellent foundation for seamlessly integrating PLC code development into DevOps workflows and for verifying and assuring code quality through automated test procedures.

TwinCAT PLC++ is based on the familiar TwinCAT architecture and is fully integrated into the proven TwinCAT ecosystem. Full compatibility with existing TwinCAT functions is ensured and the new generation PLC can be used in parallel with the existing TwinCAT PLC if required. The available PLC libraries can also be used to their full extent. This enables step-by-step switching with parallel operation of TwinCAT PLC and TwinCAT PLC++. On the other hand, an integrated converter enables the efficient transfer of existing program code so that existing expertise is readily available in TwinCAT PLC++.

 

 

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