What feature do PLCs often include to prevent issues from power loss?

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) often incorporate battery backup or non-volatile memory to safeguard against data loss during power outages. Non-volatile memory retains data even when the power is switched off, ensuring that critical information such as system configurations and operational parameters are preserved. Similarly, a battery backup system can provide temporary power to the PLC during an unexpected outage, allowing it to continue functioning or to safely shut down while saving any essential data.

This feature is crucial in industrial environments where maintaining operational integrity and data fidelity is necessary to avoid disruptions in processes, accidental errors, or the need for reconfiguration. The other options do not universally apply to most PLC setups. For instance, standard batteries may not provide the necessary power duration needed for complex operations, while backup generators can be expensive and are not always practical for every application. Manual power switches do not prevent power loss; rather, they simply control when power is supplied to the system. Therefore, the implementation of battery backup or non-volatile memory is the most effective solution for addressing power loss issues in PLCs.