摘要：AbstractIndustrial automation, requires connecting with many different devices (data sources), for collecting and storing the data, in order to improve the business performance of automated systems. This state completely fits in the concept of Industry 4.0. A different approach can be applied in order to fulfill increased demands for data processing. One of them is introducing Edge computing architecture with edge controllers. An edge controller's characteristics show that the edge controller is more than a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)/ Programmable Automation Controller (PAC). Edge controllers with new features can upgrade existing systems with the PLC/PAC and improve productivity, security and maintenance of automated systems. PLC/PAC and edge controllers must enable the implementation of robust industrial automation systems to continue seamlessly adding the latest communication and application development options. In this paper is described the state of the art of the PLC/PAC and edge controllers in industrial automation.
