APACS Overview

Most processes include a combination of continuous control needs, such as flows and temperatures, and discrete control requirements, such as on/off circuits. A traditional approach to meeting these differing needs has been to work solely within a distributed control system (DCS) environment, where the continuous control requirements are easily satisfied, but configuring discrete control can be difficult. The other option has been to buy a DCS for continuous control and a programmable logic controller (PLC) for discrete control, which doubles your configuration, integration, installation, and maintenance efforts.

The APACS+ Advanced Controller solves this problem by providing integral capabilities for both continuous and discrete control. For example, via the 4-mation™ configuration software, you configure the Advanced Controller using any combination of four languages. Function blocks can be used for continuous control, discrete control is defined via ladder logic, sequential function charts support complex sequencing, and structured text offers a text-based alternative for applications such as optimization and complex calculations.

On top of the combined DCS/PLC capabilities, the APACS+ controller includes hardware that cost effectively satisfies a wide range of I/O requirements, flexible packaging options that allow you to install the controller in virtually any environment, and high controller availability to ensure uninterrupted production. This unique blend of features leads to a process automation project that runs more smoothly, stays within budgetary limits, and lays the groundwork for long, trouble-free operation.