New generation of mini-PLCs enable fast and easy start for development

RS Components now offers the recently launched STG-800 range of mini-PLCs from Barth Elektronik, now programmable via popular Arduino software. The range provides hardware-oriented microcontroller programming with low current consumption in a small form factor. The units deliver a best-fit solution for a whole range of smaller applications that simply do not require overly powerful PLCs. They are suited to use in a wide range of applications, including industrial and building automation, automotive and maritime technology, technical education/university, and white goods. Barth is now providing a free-of-charge software patch for the latest Arduino IDE (Integrated Development Environment) to support all models in the STG-800 range. The three mini-PLCs are based on a 32-bit ARM Cortex processor, which delivers a step change in performance. In addition to the Arduino IDE, the PLCs can be programmed via the established miCon-L software, as well as allowing open-source C-programming with the KEIL µVision software suite. All the PLCs offer 10 I/O and a CAN interface, enabling communication with external devices. The range offers five digital inputs, three configurable for 0VDC to 30VDC analogue inputs with a 12-bit ADC, one as a 25kHz-input event counter, one as a 40µs-input pulse and frequency counter, five solid-state power outputs (up to 1.5A), four high side, and one low side that can also support a 16-bit 1Hz to 25kHz power PWM output. The STG-810 model adds an IrDA (Infrared) port for communication with the PG-65 parameter programmer. The STG-820 model offers the same as the STG-810, but has a 0V-5V analogue output instead of PWM. All three PLCs come with connectors and are complemented by open-source templates, the miCon-L software suite and manuals and sample programs, which can all be downloaded.