I mostly use GX dev but I also often use CX programmer (Omron) and Step 7 Microwin (Siemens 200 series)
In my opinion, none of the software manufacturers have got it just right.
Pretty right. Like beer, all beer is OK but some is better than others.
MEDOC was fine in it's day but is pretty outdated these days. GX is functional but "clunky".
I think Omron CX-One is pretty good. CX-Programmer V6. Better FB support than previous versions and an absolute host of standard FBs come with the package. Full networking support (V1 and a bit clunky but will get better.
For me, the best PLC is made by Siemens. Why? If you know to program Siemens PLCs, programming any other PLC is no hardship at all. You'll learn it in no time, because Siemens has the steepest learning curve of all. When you know Siemens, all others seem easy.
HERE!!! HERE!!!
No kidding. In my opinion the best PLC is the one you know best and does the job.
Could not agree more.
I guess most here would know that my preferred is Omron by a long way. Have looked at others but have not found a reason to change my view at this stage.
For Smart Relays the Mitsubishi Alpha 2 looks very good with a host of features and lots of functions and expansion modules.
I am having a very good look at the AB Micrologix 1100 at the moment. Looks very attractive up to 80 I/O and may well fit the smaller jobs that come my way. Cost of software is a bit of a worry though. Also having a look at Control Logix but cost is a bit prohibitive, particulalry the software. The PLC istelf is a very interesting concept and it will be interesting to see if other manufacturers follow suit.
Your applications will also make a huge difference. Some PLCs network much better than ithers, some have better motion control, some have fuzzy logic. Sifting between them can be a nightmare.
Not impressed with Schneider software at all.
Some guys like fat girls, and some guys like blondes. Some guys dont like'm at all.....
What an excellent analogy Mike!!!
This is an old ever repeating topic.
Dont't we all dislike this question? A search will find plenty of topics on this subject.
Have a look in the reviews section and see what people think of the PLCs they use. It is only very new and many of us have really not had time to submit a review yet but the section will get much better as time goes by and we all have more time to submit our reviews. Do not only look at hardware reviews but software as well. Software can save an enormous amount of time and frustration particularly when commissioning.