The threat to programmable logic controllers (PLCs) from PC-based controls is over, says a report from ARC Advisory Group (www.arcweb.com).

"PLCs today contain PC-based technologies to the extent that these technologies contribute to the PLC's functionality. A new paradigm, the programmable automation controller (PAC) is evolving, which is set to change the face of industrial automation at the controller level," according to senior analyst Himanshu Shah. He is co-author of the report, "Programmable Logic Controller Worldwide Outlook."

Shah continues to say users prefer PLC-based, application-specific solutions because the PLC is so standardized.