Which feature distinguishes PLCs from microcontrollers?

The distinguishing feature of PLCs is that they are specifically designed for industrial automation applications, incorporating built-in I/O modules that facilitate direct interfacing with sensors, actuators, and other field devices. This design focus allows PLCs to operate reliably in harsh industrial environments, where factors such as temperature fluctuations, vibrations, and electrical noise can impact performance.

PLCs are built to handle multiple input/output operations simultaneously and are programmed to execute control processes continuously as part of their primary function. Their robustness and the ability to run complex control algorithms make them well-suited for applications such as assembly lines, manufacturing processes, and other industrial control scenarios.

While microcontrollers can be used in automation, they do not typically include the level of integration for industrial applications, making them more general-purpose computing devices. They often rely on additional external components to achieve functionalities that come standard in a PLC.