PLCs (or Programmable Logic Controllers) are programmable microprocessor-based devices that are used for the control of machines and manufacturing processes
through the implementation of specific functions such as logic, sequencing, timing, counting, and arithmetic.
Typical applications include batch process control and materials handling in the chemical industry, machining and test-stand control and
data acquisition in the manufacturing industry, wood cutting and chip handling in the lumber industry, filling and packaging in food industries,
and furnace and rolling-mill controls in the metal industry.
Whzan is internet based and you can access it via most browsers, however to get or set data on your own PLC network, you will need an additional service
to run on your PC. This service controls the devices with instructions from Whzan and reports status back to Whzan. To get this service on your PC download
the
Modbus Gateway. You can find this in the
Whzan shop. It's a free download, but you must have
a registered Whzan account in order to make use of the data. If you take a look at the 'Start Here' process on the Whzan site, it will take you through the
registration and account setup.
Download the Gateway service and Manager program. Run the installation and follow the installation instructions.
Two components are installed: A service that routinely communicates with the PLC to get and set values, and a Manager program used to setup the mapping between
the PLC inputs and outputs and Whzan datapoints.