Conforming with the IEC standard offers additional safety aspects for programming, which are supplemented by extended type checks in the compiler. TwinCAT PLC++ also supports a secure online change where pointers and references are automatically adjusted. This prevents the implementation of potentially error-prone code and ensures that the application is more reliable and secure. With the help of an emergency mode, it is possible to define explicit responses to an exceptional state of the machine, such as the execution of separate code for a safe shutdown.
Seamless integration into DevOps workflows
With TwinCAT PLC++, the program code is stored in plain text at file level for the first time. This simplifies the use of source code management systems such as Git, as the synchronization of different code versions is particularly easy and intuitive. What’s more, the new compiler is available as a stand-alone component and can be called up automatically via a command line interface. Given that a complete engineering instance is no longer required, this allows automated processes for creating and testing program code in unit tests to be greatly optimized in terms of time.
Therefore, TwinCAT PLC++ offers an excellent foundation for seamlessly integrating PLC code development into DevOps workflows and for checking and ensuring code quality through automated test procedures. Automated tests not only increase the reliability of the control system, but also boost the efficiency of the testing process. As result, products can be launched more quickly and the risk of errors in the field is ultimately reduced.
Assured continuity and compatibility
TwinCAT PLC++ is based on the familiar TwinCAT architecture and is fully integrated into the proven TwinCAT ecosystem. Complete compatibility with the existing TwinCAT Functions is ensured and the new PLC generation can also be used in parallel with the existing TwinCAT PLC if required. The available PLC libraries can also be used to their full extent. On the one hand, this enables a step-by-step changeover with parallel TwinCAT PLC and TwinCAT PLC++ operation. On the other hand, an integrated converter enables the efficient transfer of existing program code, so that existing expertise is easily available in TwinCAT PLC++. For example, existing TwinCAT Scope and TwinCAT HMI applications can continue to be used unchanged. Switching therefore involves little effort.
Integrated deeply into the TwinCAT world
The new TwinCAT PLC++ architecture also enables deeper integration of TwinCAT Functions. For example, TwinCAT HMI and TwinCAT Target Browser can access the PLC variables directly without the program code having to be compiled and executable beforehand. Furthermore, a programming assistant based on TwinCAT Chat can be integrated. This assistant supports the generation of both textual and graphical codes. In this way, the extensive potential of the TwinCAT world can be fully exploited and the efficiency of the entire engineering process can be increased.
In a nutshell, TwinCAT PLC++ is the latest PLC generation available in the TwinCAT system. The runtime and engineering performance is improved, creating significant added value, and the switch is easy to make while preserving current TwinCAT functionality – a real "plus plus" for the user.