IDEC’s Integrated PLC and HMI has a Smaller Footprint and Less Complexity

IDEC has recently unveiled its newest Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) with a built-in Human Machine Interface (HMI), boasting several I/O ports and a 16 million color 4.3” display.

The FTIJ PLC+HMI is one of the easiest HMIs to read and interface. It combines a capable controller with a brilliant HMI and will likely be used in many industrial and manufacturing settings. By combining the PLC and the HMI into one unit, IDEC has beefed up its processing capability to ensure quick calculations and decisions are made. The FTIJ PLC+HMI has dual CPUs, one for the PLC and one for the HMI. This keeps tasks organized, providing a degree of separation between user inputs and displays in the HMI from the process control occurring in the PLC while still integrating these systems.


The IDEC FTIJ PLC+HMI. Image used courtesy of IDEC

Features of the FTIJ PLC+HMI

Regarding connectivity, the FTIJ PLC+HMI has eight built-in DC I/O ports, configurable as discrete or up to two 4-20 mA analog channels. Each channel can be scanned at up to 20 kHz, meaning data can be collected quickly, and short-lived events can be captured. Two-wire RTD and thermocouple measurements can be made with this device as well. All channels have 12-bit resolution.

Data can be transferred using several common industrial protocols, including MQTT, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and many others. Furthermore, data can be directly ported to email or Twitter/X, though care must be taken to preserve trade secrets and data not meant for the public.

Perhaps the most impressive feature of this device is its display. With 16 million colors, the 4.3” (480x272 pixel) display is bright and readable in virtually all lighting conditions. The display is a capacitive touchscreen that can be operated even with gloved fingers. It has fewer touch screen layers, meaning less light loss through the touch screen, yet maintains its responsiveness.


The PLC+HMI can expand its I/O ports by adding I/O cartridges. Image used courtesy of IDEC

The integrated PLC+HMI can also add I/O cartridges, expanding the total number by up to eight digital or four analog I/O ports. With up to 22 total I/O ports, the device delivers the connectivity needed to operate.
 
Advantages of an Integrated PLC and HMI

In edge computing, the idea is to separate tasks, divide them among devices, and move them to the “edges” of the network. However, there are some cases where integrating a few essential components provides advantages.

In the case of the IDEC FTIJ PLC+HMI, integrating the PLC and HMI together reduces the system's complexity and installation at a few key points. It also takes up less room in instrumentation cabinets, as both devices are combined into one package.

This controller is not meant to replace every single PLC in an edge computing-capable automation system but rather to replace frequently used components or components that benefit from a local HMI for local control and display of process parameters.

The IDEC FTIJ PLC+HMI will likely see plenty of use in large manufacturing facilities with many machines, process monitors, etc. It may also catch on with machine builders as a controller and interface for single pieces of equipment.