A programmable logic controller called shortly PLC, or programmable controller is an industrial digital computer which has been ruggedized and adapted for the control of manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, or robotic devices, or any activity that requires high reliability control and ease of programming and process fault diagnosis.
A microcontroller contains one or more CPU’s along with memory and programmable input or output peripherals. Program memory in the form of Ferroelectric RAM, NOR flash or ROM is also often included on chip, as well as a small amount of RAM.
PLC vs. Microcontroller
@ PLC is used for industrial signals , programmed with USB cable or either net etc. easy language can take analog signals easily change the program can be connected with HMI systems and interact easily , it consists of a processor and modules ,it has big memory.
@ Microcontroller is for programming the chips on boards to do specific jobs and the you should complete the circuit on the board with relays and other stuff to regulate the current , used in other things that doesn't need changes , it consist of IC with various number of Input or output.
@ PLC Programming is Ladder Type Programming & it’s easy.
@ Microcontroller Programming depends on Hand Coding Program, & it’s so difficult.
@ PLC is basically for Industrial use for controlling machinery.
@ Microcontroller can be used for any types of application.
@ PLC is an infinitely expandable input or output logic controller generally programmed with a external PC program.
@ Microcontroller is not an infinitely expandable input or output logic controller.