network of LonWorks devices can be made to act like an industry standard Programmable Logic Controller for large factory automation projects.

The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) can be made to look like a LonWorks device on a LonWorks network.

J. Gordon Electronic Design can design in Programmable Logic Controller capabilities into any custom controller.

 A complete network of LonWorks devices implementing distributed control functions for a factory automation application were interfaced via a network bridge. The entire LonWorks network was made to appear as a single Modicon controller on the ModBus Plus network in the factory. The LonWorks devices are now accessible to the high level factory automation MAP network. The various LonWorks devices are programmed and monitored through MMI software such as WonderWare.

A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) with 128 I/O points was interfaced to a LonWorks network using the PLC's serial communications port and a LonWorks SLTA (Serial LonTalk Adapter). The PLC functions were made accessible via the LonWorks network, making the PLC devices appear as LonWorks devices. In addition to enhanced diagnostics, the LonWorks connection reduced the number of discrete wires needed while increasing functionality.

J. Gordon Electronic Design developed PLC control features and a PLC style programming language that were built into a custom controller to provide auxiliary functions related to the dedicated primary control function.