What is softplc
SoftPLC is a software-based PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) that runs on standard hardware such as industrial PCs or edge devices, instead of requiring dedicated PLC hardware. It provides a flexible, scalable, and cost-efficient way to execute industrial automation.
Key features include:
- Deterministic, high-speed logic execution.
- “Unlimited” user memory for logic and data.
- Programming style similar to Allen-Bradley PLCs.
- Support for multiple I/O modules from different vendors.
- Built-in web server, email messaging, data logging, recipe management, and C++ toolkit for customization.
Programming and configuration are done with TOPDOC NexGen, which supports ladder logic, offline/online monitoring, I/O and driver configuration, and reporting.
How FactoryNebula Uses SoftPLC
FactoryNebula integrates SoftPLC as the core of their modern factory control systems. Their solution combines:
- SoftPLC → providing the control logic and communication backbone.
- FUXA → a browser-based SCADA platform that delivers visualization, dashboards, alarms, and trends.
Together, this enables real-time monitoring and control through any browser, using standard industrial protocols like MQTT, OPC UA, and Modbus.
FactoryNebula highlights that this setup is:
- Flexible
- Secure
- Scalable (from a single line to entire plants)
- Easy to integrate with existing infrastructures
SoftPLC turns standard hardware into a powerful industrial controller, scalable, flexible and ready for the future of automation
How to Install SoftPLC
Requirements
- Java Runtime (Java 6 or higher)
- TOPDOC NexGen (the programming tool)
- PuTTY for SSH (on Windows)
- Network access to the SoftPLC (default IP: 192.168.1.100)
- A PC set to the same subnet (e.g. 192.168.1.2)
Installation Steps (NeoPAC Quick Start Guide)
- Install Java RTE, TOPDOC NexGen, and PuTTY on your PC.
- Configure your PC’s network to match the SoftPLC subnet (e.g. PC: 192.168.1.2; SoftPLC: 192.168.1.100).
- Connect your PC to the SoftPLC via Ethernet.
- Power up the SoftPLC (≈15 W, 24 VDC).
- Start TOPDOC NexGen, log in as “Default”, select PLC.
- Use Detect-On-Net to find the SoftPLC, then save the configuration.
- Click Edit Remotely to connect and view or edit the current application.
Alternative Access via SSH
- Windows: open PuTTY, connect via SSH (port 22), login: root, password: softplc.
- Linux: use ssh from the terminal. This allows direct access to logs and configuration.
Alternative Access via SSH
- Requirements: 64-bit Windows or Ubuntu, ≥150 MB storage, 1280×1024 resolution, and USB port for dongle.
- Run the .exe installer, allow admin permissions, follow the wizard, install Keylok2 dongle driver.
- Only connect the dongle after installation (otherwise TOPDOC runs in demo mode).
- If you change the default install path (C:\SoftPLC\), update Topdoc.cfg accordingly.
Conclusion
SoftPLC brings the reliability of PLC functionality with the flexibility of software, running on standard hardware. FactoryNebula leverages this by combining it with FUXA, delivering scalable, secure, and browser-based factory control solutions.
While setup requires some preparation (Java, network configuration, TOPDOC installation), the installation is straightforward and well-documented.
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