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Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

Deterministic FPGA Acceleration for Next-Generation Industrial PLCs

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are rugged industrial computers used to automate and control real-time processes in factory environments. Traditionally designed as closed, domain-specific systems, PLCs are evolving with Industry 4.0 into software-defined functions integrated within edge computing platforms. This shift enables greater flexibility and workload consolidation. Altera FPGAs enhance PLC architectures by providing deterministic, low-latency parallel processing for I/O expansion, industrial Ethernet, and fieldbus connectivity. They also support functional safety requirements with certified devices, IP cores, and comprehensive safety data packages for mission-critical industrial applications.

Why Altera FPGAs

Deterministic Real-Time Control

Deliver ultra-low-latency processing and precise synchronization for mission-critical industrial automation.

Flexible Industrial Connectivity

Enable scalable I/O expansion and seamless integration with industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols.

Functional Safety Ready

Support safety-critical PLC applications with certified devices, safety IP, and comprehensive compliance packages.

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Solutions
Altera FPGA OpenPLC Software Stack

Altera OpenPLC is an open-source framework that brings programmable logic controller functionality onto FPGA platforms. It enables developers to implement industrial control logic using standard IEC 61131-3 programming languages while leveraging FPGA acceleration for real-time performance. By combining software-based PLC execution with hardware flexibility, OpenPLC allows integration with edge computing systems, enabling scalable, customizable, and cost-efficient industrial automation solutions.

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RDMA IP (RoCEv2)

RDMA RoCEv2 enables machine vision and AI systems to transfer high-volume image and sensor data across Ethernet networks with ultra-low latency and minimal CPU overhead. This allows distributed vision architectures where cameras, accelerators, and compute nodes operate as a unified system. Implemented on Altera FPGAs, RoCEv2 supports high-bandwidth data movement for real-time analytics, enabling scalable AI-driven inspection and vision processing in industrial environments.

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TSN (Time Sensitive Network) 

Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) enables deterministic, low-latency communication for machine vision and AI systems operating over industrial Ethernet. It ensures precise time synchronization and reliable data delivery between cameras, sensors, and processing nodes, even in congested networks. Implemented on Altera FPGAs, TSN allows converged network architectures that support real-time image transport and distributed AI processing, enabling scalable, high-performance vision systems for industrial automation and inspection.

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Industrial Ethernet Solutions

Industrial Ethernet solutions enable machine vision and AI systems to communicate reliably across cameras, sensors, controllers, and edge compute platforms. Supporting multiple protocols such as PROFINET, EtherCAT, and Ethernet/IP, these solutions ensure deterministic performance and seamless integration across diverse industrial networks. Altera FPGAs provide a flexible platform for implementing and bridging protocols, enabling real-time data exchange, scalable architectures, and efficient deployment of distributed vision and AI applications.

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Talk to an Altera expert

Bring us the workload. We will map it to a device, an IP stack, and a board.

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