The Integrated PLC Connection (IPC) provides direct communication between Accord and a PLC. It is used for single small-and-medium type PLC systems, replacing OPC server. As it is part of Accord it just needs minimal setup.
The connection is set up in the Project Controller’s properties, replacing a 3rd party OPC Server with an easy connection.
In this example – the PLC Type is selected as Siemens S7 and Accord IPC is selected for the dropdown for OPC Server. The IP Address for the PLC is the only setup needed.
The PLC Processing Enabled allows Accord processing to be paused. This is sometimes useful when a full PLC Setup is being carried out. This setting is common, whether Accord IPC or an OPC Server is being used.