PC Versus CNC-Which Do You Choose?

Recent advances in programmable controller technology, particularly in the area of motion control, have redefined the distinctions between programmable controllers (PC´s) and computer numerical controls (CNC´s). Advanced PC´s now offer new features, such as coordinated motion control of multiple axes. The benefits of new PC´s that make them the preferred choice over CNC´s in many machine control applications are discussed. These benefits include: 1) flexibility¿customer configurable, 2) ease of use¿ladder diagrams and modular software, 3) cost savings¿less expensive hardware and software. Application examples are used to illustrate how PC´s can perform functions heretofore limited to CNC´s. In addition, new applications that were impractical to implement with CNC´s are discussed.