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PLCs, or Programmable Logic Controllers, have become an integral part of industrial automation and control systems. These devices execute a sequence of instructions provided by a user to control various industrial processes. With their ability to handle complex operations, PLCs have evolved into a crucial component of modern industrial automation. In this article, we will introduce the major PLC manufacturers and their leading products in Europe, America, and Japan.

Europe: PLCs originated in Europe in the late 1960s and the region continues to be a major hub for PLC manufacturers. Some of the leading PLC brands in Europe are Siemens, ABB, Schneider Electric, and Omron. These companies have a strong presence in the global market and are known for their high-quality and reliable PLC products.

Siemens: Headquartered in Germany, Siemens is one of the oldest and largest PLC manufacturers in the world. Their SIMATIC series of PLCs is widely used in various industries for its versatility, advanced functionality, and robust design. Siemens also offers a comprehensive range of software tools and accessories to support their PLCs, making them a preferred choice for many industrial applications.

ABB: ABB is a Swiss-Swedish multinational corporation that specializes in power and automation technologies. Their AC500 and AC500-eCo series of PLCs are highly regarded for their high-speed processing, modular design, and cost-effectiveness. ABB also provides a range of specialized PLCs for specific industries such as water and wastewater treatment, oil and gas, and food and beverage.

Schneider Electric: Originating from France, Schneider Electric is a global leader in energy management and automation solutions. Their Modicon series of PLCs are known for their scalability, flexibility, and advanced communication capabilities. Schneider Electric also offers a wide range of software tools and accessories to enhance the functionality of their PLCs.

Omron: Omron is a Japanese electronics company that manufactures a diverse range of automation and control products. Their Sysmac series of PLCs are popular for their compact design, high speed, and advanced motion control capabilities. Omron also offers specialized safety PLCs for applications that require strict safety standards.

America: America is another major player in the global PLC market, with many leading PLC manufacturers based in the region. Some of the prominent names in the American PLC industry are Rockwell Automation, Emerson Electric, and Honeywell.

Rockwell Automation: Rockwell Automation, headquartered in Wisconsin, USA, is one of the largest PLC manufacturers in the world. Their Allen-Bradley series of PLCs are widely used in various industries for their high performance, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of communication protocols. Rockwell Automation also offers a range of software tools and accessories to support their PLCs.

Emerson Electric: Based in Missouri, USA, Emerson Electric is a global technology and engineering company that offers a wide range of industrial automation solutions. Their DeltaV series of PLCs are highly regarded for their advanced control capabilities, scalability, and user-friendly programming software. Emerson Electric also provides specialized PLCs for industries such as oil and gas, power generation, and pharmaceuticals.

Honeywell: Honeywell is a multinational conglomerate that offers a range of control and automation solutions for various industries. Their Experion series of PLCs are known for their high-speed processing, advanced security features, and compatibility with multiple communication protocols. Honeywell also offers specialized PLCs for applications that require high precision and accuracy, such as aerospace and defense systems.

Japan: Japan is a leading innovator in the PLC industry, with several well-established PLC manufacturers based in the country. Some of the notable Japanese PLC brands are Mitsubishi Electric, Panasonic, and Fuji Electric.

Mitsubishi Electric: Mitsubishi Electric is a Japanese multinational company that manufactures a range of electrical and electronic equipment. Their MELSEC series of PLCs are widely used in various industries for their high-speed processing, advanced motion control capabilities, and compatibility with a wide range of communication protocols. Mitsubishi Electric also offers specialized PLCs for specific industries such as automotive, food and beverage, and chemical processing.

Panasonic: Panasonic is a global leader in the manufacture of electronic and electrical products. Their FP series of PLCs are known for their compact design, high-speed processing, and advanced communication capabilities. Panasonic also offers specialized PLCs for applications that require high precision and control, such as semiconductor manufacturing and robotics.

Fuji Electric: Fuji Electric is a Japanese multinational company that offers a diverse range of products and services, including industrial automation solutions. Their MICREX series of PLCs are renowned for their high-speed processing, advanced motion control capabilities, and reliability in harsh industrial environments. Fuji Electric also provides specialized PLCs for industries such as automotive and steel manufacturing.

In conclusion, PLCs are crucial components in modern industrial automation and control systems, and the market is dominated by major manufacturers from Europe, America, and Japan. These leading brands offer a diverse range of PLC products with advanced features and functionalities to meet the ever-evolving needs of industries worldwide. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative PLC products from these manufacturers in the future.

References:
- PLC Academy, "Top 21 Industrial Automation Companies in the World"
- Control Design, "2019 Readers' Choice Awards: The Best in Automation and Control"
- ARC Advisory Group, "PLC Market Size and Forecast for 2019-2024"