Control Eng Custom Vs. MicroPLC

Custom design or COTS (commercial-off-the-shelf) controller? Which choice should OEMs make when designing and assembling controllers into their products? For OEMs embarking on any system design and assembly, the answer depends on system specifications and type of installation. When OEMs choose a solution, whether for controllers developed for use within or outside of general manufacturing, the decision making process requires a bit of scrutiny. Whether the application of the OEMs product is for manufacturing or for office buildings, retail stores or entertainment facilities, the controllers require the same level of functionality to provide automation, remote monitoring, connectivity to the enterprise and Web-enablement. In the design and assembly of their products, OEMs typically have two choices, to develop "green boards", which are internally designed custom controllers, or to apply COTS micro PLCs.