RTU and PLC are both equipment commonly used in the field of industrial automation, but RTU is a remote terminal unit and PLC is a programmable logic controller. They have some essential differences in functions and applications. Let’s take a look at them below.
1. Function
RTU is mainly used to collect, process and transmit data, and can communicate with external devices through sensors and actuators. It is often used to monitor and control remote sites such as oil fields, power stations, etc. PLC focuses more on control logic, using programmable logic and algorithms to process various input signals, and control the operation of external devices based on program logic.
2. Hardware
RTU usually has more communication interfaces and analog input/output ports to connect with various external devices. PLC focuses more on digital input/output ports for connecting sensors and actuators. In addition, RTU usually has more powerful processing power and storage capacity to cope with large data processing and storage needs.
3. Application areas
Due to RTU’s communication capabilities and data processing capabilities, it is often used in remote monitoring and control systems, such as power, water treatment, natural gas and other fields. PLC is widely used in manufacturing and industrial automation fields, including production line control, robot control, automated processing control, etc.
4. Programming
RTU usually uses simple data acquisition and transmission protocols, such as MODBUS, etc. PLC has more powerful programming functions and can use a variety of programming languages, such as Ladder Diagram, Structured Text, etc.
Despite these differences, RTUs and PLCs are similar in some ways. For example, they are all devices used to monitor and control systems, and they can all be accessed and controlled remotely over the network. Therefore, the choice of which device to use depends on specific application needs and system requirements. Whether it is RTU or PLC , it can improve the efficiency and reliability of industrial automation systems.