China
Introduction
Choosing the right industrial controller is crucial for ensuring performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in automation projects. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading an existing one, the controller you choose determines how smoothly your devices communicate, how fast your processes run, and how scalable your system will be in the future.
This guide from Hangzhou System Tech Co., Ltd. (STE) will help you navigate the selection process and compare leading brands—STE, Siemens, and Mitsubishi—across key performance metrics.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Controller
When selecting an industrial controller (PLC or embedded control system), consider the following criteria:
l CPU Performance – Affects processing speed and real-time response.
l Memory Capacity – Determines program size and data storage.
l I/O Expansion – Flexibility in connecting sensors, actuators, and other devices.
l Communication Interfaces – Ethernet, Modbus, CAN, etc., for integration with other systems.
l Programming Environment – Availability of IEC61131-3 languages, user-friendly software.
l Price & Support – Total cost of ownership and local support services.
Parameter Comparison Table: STE vs. Siemens vs. Mitsubishi
|
Feature / Model |
STE C40 Series |
Siemens S7-1200 |
Mitsubishi FX5U |
|
CPU Speed |
48 MHz (ARM Cortex M3) |
100 MHz |
34 ns/instruction |
|
Program Memory |
256 KB |
50 KB to 100 KB |
64 KB |
|
Data Memory |
64 KB |
10 KB to 50 KB |
128 KB |
|
Digital I/O Capacity |
Up to 256 I/O points |
Up to 248 I/O points |
Up to 512 I/O points |
|
Analog I/O Support |
Yes (optional modules) |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Communication Ports |
RS232, RS485, CAN, Ethernet |
PROFINET, Modbus TCP |
Ethernet, RS485, CC-Link |
|
Programming Software |
STPLC (IEC61131-3 compliant) |
TIA Portal |
GX Works3 |
|
Supported Protocols |
Modbus RTU/TCP, CANopen, MQTT |
PROFINET, OPC UA, Modbus |
CC-Link, Modbus, Ethernet/IP |
|
Expansion Modules |
Yes (digital, analog, relay) |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Real-Time Clock |
Yes |
Optional |
Built-in |
|
Price Range (USD) |
$80–$150 |
$200–$450 |
$250–$500 |
|
Local Support in Asia |
✅ Strong support from STE |
Limited |
Moderate |
Why Choose STE Industrial Controllers?
l Cost-Effective: Ideal for small to mid-sized automation projects without sacrificing performance.
l Flexible I/O & Protocols: Support for Modbus, CANopen, and MQTT makes integration easier.
l Easy to Use: IEC61131-3 programming environment with fast learning curve.
l Global & Local Support: Backed by Hangzhou System Tech Co., Ltd., with production in China and Thailand.
Application Scenarios
l Automated Packaging Lines
l HVAC and Building Automation
l Fluid and Pump Control
l Smart Agriculture
l Custom Machine Building
Conclusion
Each industrial controller has its strengths. Siemens and Mitsubishi are excellent for large-scale applications and international standardization. However, STE controllers offer outstanding value, speed, and customization for flexible and cost-sensitive applications.
If you're looking for a reliable, affordable, and easy-to-integrate controller for your next project, consider Hangzhou System Tech Co., Ltd. as your trusted partner.
Contact us: yhm@systech.com.cn
Visit: www.aicontrolsys.com
