What is the difference between PLC and RTU? - ProProfs Discuss
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What is the difference between PLC and RTU?

Asked by Lynn , Last updated: Mar 30, 2024

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C. Adlai

C. Adlai

A professional and experienced software developer with amateur writing.

C. Adlai
C. Adlai, Software Developer, B.E (Bachelor of Engineering), California, USA

Answered Jul 20, 2020

When you know that you would like to automate a few things, you can become a bit confused between the RTU or the PLC because you do not know which one will work best for you. RTU is an electronic device that is microprocessor-controlled so that the object interfaces can become clearer. PLC is considered to be the CPU of the industry. This is meant to be used so that the different electromechanical processes can become automated.

When you know that you would like to automate a few things, you can become a bit confused between
Take note that the functions of the two may sometimes overlap, so just to be safe, you can use the PLC to control a certain area while the RTU can be used for wide geographic telemetry.

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E.Evelyn

E.Evelyn

E.Evelyn
E.Evelyn

Answered Dec 09, 2020

PLC’s and RTU’s are both electronic devices. RTU stands for Remote Terminal Units. An RTU is an electronic mechanism that is regulated by a microprocessor. The chief purpose of an RTU is to interface the SCADA, or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition to the objects that present physically.

The interface between objects and SCADA occurs by utilizing supervisory system messages to manage all the connected objects. RTU is a better option because it employs wireless communication and is appropriate for broader geographical telemetry, while PLC’s are better with local controls. PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller. PLC’s are digital computers, and they are used primarily for powering the electromechanical processes.

For example, construction in factories, light fixtures, and amusement rides. They are expressly intended for output arrangements and multiple inputs, and they have electrical noise immunity, vibration and impact resistance, and varied temperature fluctuations. Some of PLC’s functions are process control, relay control, motion control, networking, and handling data.

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Brendan

Brendan

Always excited to learn and talk about new topics

Brendan
Brendan , Analyst, NY

Answered Nov 27, 2020

PLC or Programmable Logic Controller and RTU or Remote Terminal Units are two types of devices with overlapping functionalities. RTU is a device used to interface the SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) to physically present objects. On the other hand, PLCs or Programmable Logic Controllers are used to automate the electrochemical process. PLCs are developed for multiple inputs. PLCs are known for functions like motion control, process control, networking, and relay control. When dealing with wider geographical telemetry, RTUs are usually preferred to PLCs. This is because the RTUs use wireless communication. In contrast to this, PLCs are suitable for local controls. The standardized proprietary tool used by PLCs is IEC 61131-3. Also, PLCs are capable of storing, processing, and, handling data. However, there are other tools used by RTUs. One of the examples of the application of PLCs is when they are used for assembly lines in firms.
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Noah

Noah

Driving down to Knowledge town

Noah
Noah , Chauffer, LA

Answered Nov 27, 2020

In the automation world, you have the power to choose between PLC and RTU. RTU is known to be a microprocessor-controlled device. This will make sure that there are interface objects that will become available in the physical world. RTU stands for Remote Terminal Unit. This will be controlled by a microprocessor. PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller. This is a type of industrial digital controller that is being used for manufacturing different products. This can be used to assemble different robotic devices and even assembly lines. Take note that there are two types of PLCs that are available right now. These are fixed and modular.
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youness

youness

Building buildings and building intelligence

youness
Youness , Builder, B. Tech, Bern

Answered Nov 18, 2020

You need to know what these things mean to help you understand what they can do. When you say PLC, this stands for Programmable Logic Controller. RTU, on the other hand, means Remote Terminal Units. Some people also refer to RTU as Remote Telemetry Unit. If you would like to use something for wider telemetry, RTU is considered to be more useful. This can be used for effective wireless communication. PLC can be used for local control, which means that they can be used for amusement rides, and so much more. You can use PLC when you are working on some output arrangements. You can also use this for some types of inputs.
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