Instrumentation Engineering Interview Question:

What is Difference between PLC and CNC?

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CNC (Computer Numerical Control) is a particular application
usually to control a multi axis machine tool such as a
milling machine or a lathe but also could be a tube bending
machine punch press or similar. The CNC controller is
usually a purpose built controller using a micro computer
but could be a general purpose computer or a PLC. The
forerunner was NC (Numerical Control) before computers were
readily available, it used solid state logic and relays,
timers etc to provide the application.

A PLC (Programable Logic Controller) is a general purpose
logic controller specifically designed to allow the user to
create their own application. They select appropriate I/O
(Inputs Outputs) and perhaps function modules for purposes
such as communications and multi axis servo control and
program the PLC to perform the required functions.
Submitted by: Administrator