Selection of PLC power modules and other peripherals

PLC Power & Peripherals

2026 Industrial Intelligence Report

Selecting power and peripherals—key decisions. Here's from field experience.

Power Modules

1. Power Supply

Type: Switch-mode

Output: 24VDC

Select: Match CPU rating

2. I/O Modules

Type: Digital/analog

Select: Based on count

Expand: Plan 20% growth

3. Communication

Type: Ethernet, serial

Select: System needs

Protocol: OPC-UA, MQTT

Selection Factors

Voltage
Match system voltage—120VAC or 240VAC input
Current
Rate at 125% of calculated load
Protection
Overload and short circuit required

Select power at 125% of load—I/O takes more current than CPU. Don't undersize.

— Senior Controls Engineer

Peripherals

Type Use>
I/O Module Sensors, actuators
Analog Module Temperature, pressure
Communication HMI, SCADA
Special Function Motion, high-speed
Pro-Tip: Budget matters—but don't undersize. Plan 20% expansion.

Same manufacturer for compatibility. Mixing brands causes issues.

FAQ

+Power supply type?
Switch-mode standard—efficient, less heat. Linear only for noise-sensitive.
+How to size?
Add I/O current, multiply by 1.25. Add CPU current. Pick next size up.
+Same brand?
Yes—compatibility issues with mixing. Same manufacturer ensures work together.

Need Help Selecting?

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