PC Versus CNC-Which Do You Choose?

1 September 1984

journal article
Published by Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in IEEE Transactions on Industry Applications

Vol. IA-20 (5) , 1141-1145
https://doi.org/10.1109/tia.1984.4504576

Abstract

Recent advances in programmable controller technology, particularly in the area of motion control, have redefined the distinctions between programmable controllers (PC's) and computer numerical controls (CNC's). Advanced PC's now offer new features, such as coordinated motion control of multiple axes. The benefits of new PC's that make them the preferred choice over CNC's in many machine control applications are discussed. These benefits include: 1) flexibility-customer configurable, 2) ease of use-ladder diagrams and modular software, 3) cost savings-less expensive hardware and software. Application examples are used to illustrate how PC's can perform functions heretofore limited to CNC's. In addition, new applications that were impractical to implement with CNC's are discussed.

Keywords

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