Hybrid Systems Hybrid systems comprise of both PLC and PC Controls. The PLC handles the lower level monitoring control, and the PC performs the higher speed data acquisition and storage. In test systems, the PC can also be used to send the PLC a set of parameters that control the test; a test settings or test instruction. This is useful for performing similar tests on variants of a component.
The operator loads the test to be performed, usually named by product model or similar, then the parameters of that specific test are sent to the PLC. The test is then initiated by the operator, and the PC captures the test data, determining either a pass or fail, and then stores the data, either locally or over a network, even printing out a test certificate if required. The resultant test data file could be linked with a product serial number allowing full traceability.
