PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers: A Buyer's Guide for 2025
Industrial automation relies heavily on three critical components: PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), PACs (Programmable Automation Controllers), and Dedicated Controllers. As global demand grows, many buyers turn to Chinese manufacturers for cost-effective solutions. This guide breaks down everything you need to know before sourcing these controllers in 2025.
How to Find Reliable PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers from China in 2025
When sourcing from China, prioritize manufacturers with:
- ISO 9001 certification for quality management
- CE, UL, or RoHS compliance
- Minimum 3 years of production experience
- English-speaking technical support
Platforms like Alibaba verify suppliers, but always request:
- Factory audit reports
- Product testing videos
- Customer references in your industry
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers from China
Key considerations include:
- Lead times: Average 4-8 weeks for custom orders
- MOQs: Typically 50-100 units for standard models
- Payment terms: 30% deposit, 70% before shipment is common
- Warranty: Reputable suppliers offer 12-24 months
Case Study: A German packaging manufacturer reduced costs by 35% using Chinese PLCs after verifying IEC 61131-3 compliance through third-party testing.
Types of PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers
Main categories include:
Compact PLCs
Ideal for small machines (I/O points: <20), like Siemens S7-1200 series
Modular PLCs
Expandable systems for medium applications (I/O points: 20-256)
PAC Systems
Combine PLC reliability with PC functionality for complex tasks
Motion Controllers
Specialized for precision positioning in CNC and robotics
Functions and features of PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers
Comparison table:
| Feature | PLC | PAC | Dedicated Controller |
|---|---|---|---|
| Programming | Ladder logic | Multiple languages | Pre-configured |
| Processing Power | Moderate | High | Task-specific |
| Cost | $200-$2,000 | $1,000-$10,000 | $50-$500 |
Scenarios of PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers
PLC: Conveyor systems, basic packaging machines
PAC: Pharmaceutical batch processing, energy management
Dedicated: Temperature control in food processing, simple timers
How to Choose PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers
Selection checklist:
- Determine required I/O count (add 20% spare capacity)
- Verify communication protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, etc.)
- Check environmental ratings (IP65 for washdown areas)
- Evaluate programming software costs
PLC, PAC, & Dedicated Controllers Q & A
Q: What's the main advantage of Chinese controllers?
A: Cost savings of 40-60% compared to European brands, with comparable quality from tier-1 suppliers.
Q: How to verify quality before shipment?
A: Request sample testing or hire third-party inspection services like SGS.
Q: Can I get support for programming?
A: Many Chinese suppliers now offer remote support and English documentation.
Q: What's the typical lifespan?
A> 7-10 years for quality PLCs, with proper maintenance.
Q: How to handle customs clearance?
A: Reputable suppliers handle export documentation; confirm INCOTERMS (usually FOB).
