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What is the best computer for PLC programming?
What kind of laptop is suitable for PLC programming? Can the teacher recommend one?
Are there high requirements for computers in PLC programming? What are the specifications for a PLC programming computer, and what price is appropriate?
The above questions are commonly asked by many beginners in PLC. As the configuration and programming software from various manufacturers continue to enhance their functionalities, the requirements for computers are also increasing. Some memory-intensive software has powerful features but significantly impacts the computer’s operating speed. Low-spec laptops struggle to meet these speed requirements, so it is best to choose a computer with relatively high specifications. Of course, it should also be based on personal economic capacity to select the best cost-performance ratio.
Here are some suggestions based on installation memory, processor, price, and system aspects, hoping to help everyone.
1. Installation Memory
In fact, the configuration requirements for PLC programming are not harsh. Installing memory should be above 8GB, with 16GB being optimal, especially for students learning Siemens, as they need to install TIA Portal software. To check the installed memory on your computer, you can view it through the control panel, Path: Control Panel\All Control Panel Items\System.
TIA Portal is short for Totally Integrated Automation Portal, a new integrated automation software released by Siemens Industrial Automation Group. It is the first automation software in the industry to adopt a unified engineering configuration and software project environment, suitable for almost all automation tasks. With this new engineering technology software platform, users can quickly and intuitively develop and debug automation systems.
It is applicable to Siemens series 300, 400, 1200, 1500, etc. When learning multiple series simultaneously, installing Portal is more convenient. However, this software requires 8-10GB of installation memory, which can be demanding; if the installed memory is too low, it may not function smoothly. It is recommended that students learning only one series should only install the corresponding software.
2. Processor
It is best to buy an i7 processor, as the i5 processor lacks hyper-threading capabilities, which are generally present in i7 processors. The secondary cache of the i7 is larger than that of the i5, which is the main difference. A larger cache can enhance performance and reduce loss using RAM. Those in industrial control have higher RAM requirements, so choosing an i7 processor is optimal.
3. Price
If financially capable, it is best to buy a computer costing at least around 4000 yuan, whether a laptop or desktop is fine, but a desktop is preferable as laptops are more suitable for business trips.
The differences between desktop i7 and laptop i7 are as follows:
1. The computing power of the processor; the desktop i7 has greater computing power than the laptop version.
2. The rendering capability of the processor; the desktop Core i7 leads in computing power compared to the mobile version.
3. Differences in parameters.
4. Differences in platform positioning; the mobile Core i7 processor has a lower default frequency.
It is recommended to purchase from well-known brands like Dell, Asus, and Lenovo. It is advisable not to buy from brands that you have never heard of, as they can easily lead to pitfalls.
4. System
The operating system of the computer is crucial. Most beginners installing PLC software can get frustrated with this small software, with some even struggling for a week or two. The compatibility of industrial control software with Windows 7 is the highest, followed by Windows 10, and the least is Windows 8.
In addition to the choice of system, the version of the system is also very important. For example, Windows 7 has the following versions:
l Windows 7 Home Basic
l Windows 7 Home Premium
l Windows 7 Professional
l Windows 7 Enterprise
l Windows 7 Ultimate
Besides version distinctions, there are also source distinctions: original system, clean system, ghost system. The original system is the one released by Microsoft, which requires activation or purchase of an activation code.
It is best not to choose a GHOST system, as it is modified from the original Microsoft system, and only the modifier knows what changes were made, packaged using GHOST software.
Functionally, the Windows 7 Ultimate version has the most features, and in terms of compatibility with industrial control software, Windows 7 Ultimate is better than other systems.
In summary, it is best to use a clean version of Windows 7 Ultimate, as this system has the highest compatibility and can install most PLC programming software, while Windows 10 has many software that cannot be compatible.
When purchasing a computer, you can ask the seller to help you install it according to your requirements, or you can do it yourself, which can be considered learning a skill.
Additionally, here’s a suggestion: when the system is incompatible, you can also install a virtual machine, installing the system within the virtual machine, which does not affect the external system.
That’s all for today. A computer is not cheap, so it’s best to buy one that suits you, and be careful not to fall into traps; what suits you is the best. (Original from Technical Training, unauthorized reproduction is prohibited, violators will be prosecuted!)
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