A Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) is an embedded programmable control device. PACs are designed to enable automation applications across integrated software applications, peer controllers (e.g., PLC), Human Machine Interfaces, and other systems. PACs often include advanced features for process control, motion control, drive control, and vision applications. PACs are programmed using traditional process automation programming languages (IEC-61131) and sometimes languages such as C and C++ to support more advanced controls.
| Name | Sectors | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Field Device / Controller | General |
Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) may be referred to as Field Controllers or Field Devices as a general function name. |
| Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) | General |
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) share some of the same functionality as PACs, although often without more advanced control features. Historically, differences between PLCs and PACs were minimal, resulting in varying use of the terms across industry. |