Free 3–4 Day Shipping on All Orders – Call or Email for 2nd Day Air / Next Day Options
📞 800-906-9271 ✉️ sales@plgautomation.com
Blog Image

Omron PLC Overview

May 27, 2025

Omron Corporation is a leading global manufacturer of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), renowned for its compact micro-range PLCs that power a broad range of industrial automation systems. With a scalable and flexible lineup, Omron PLCs are well-suited for both stand-alone machines and larger integrated control systems.

What is a PLC?

A PLC is a ruggedized digital computer designed for automating electromechanical processes. It monitors input devices, makes logic-based decisions, and controls outputs to automate industrial systems. PLCs offer high-reliability control, simple programming, fault detection, and are essential in industries that demand consistent uptime and process accuracy.

Common applications include traffic control systems, elevators, automatic doors, and car washes.

Omron PLC Architecture

A) CPU Module

  • Processor: Executes logic, manages memory, and controls outputs.

  • Memory: Includes RAM (dynamic values) and ROM (fixed programs).

  • Power Supply: Converts 120/240 VAC to 24 VDC for PLC circuitry.

B) Input/Output Modules

  • Digital I/O: Binary ON/OFF signals. Inputs: pushbuttons, switches. Outputs: lights, motors.

  • Analog I/O: Continuous signals (voltage/current). Inputs: temperature sensors. Outputs: VFDs, control valves.

C) Communication Protocols

  • EtherNet/IP: High-speed, structured tag-based Ethernet communication.

  • Serial (RS-232, RS-485, RS-422): For motion controllers, HMIs.

  • CompoBus/S: High-speed remote I/O.

  • DeviceNet & PROFIBUS-DP: Network integration with motor drives and sensors.

D) Programming Terminal

  • CX-Programmer via CX-ONE Suite: Unified programming platform supporting Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and Function Block Diagrams.

Omron PLC Operation

  1. Input Monitoring: Captures real-time data from input devices.

  2. Logic Execution: Processes user-defined logic.

  3. Output Control: Activates outputs based on logic and inputs.

  4. Housekeeping: Includes diagnostics, memory checks, and scan cycle management.

Omron PLC Series

A) Compact PLC Series

Model I/O Points Program Memory Comms Programming Notes
CPM1A 10-100 2K Words Profibus, DeviceNet CX-ONE Simple, integrated case
CPM2A 80-120 4K Words Same CX-ONE Expanded version
CP1E 20-160 2K/8K Steps CompoBus/S, Ethernet CX-Programmer USB support
CP1L 10-180 5K/10K Steps Profibus, Ethernet CX-ONE Versatile I/O support
CP1H 20-230 20K Steps Wide protocol range CX-ONE High-speed counters & pulse outputs

B) Modular PLC Series

Model Program Memory Data Memory Comm Ports Notes
CJ2M-CPU1 Up to 60K Steps 160K Words USB, RS-232C Simple version
CJ2M-CPU3 Same Same USB, EtherNet/IP Standard version
CJ2H-CPU6 Up to 400K Steps 832K Words USB, RS-232C High-performance
CJ2H-CPU6-EIP Same Same USB, EtherNet/IP Flagship model
CJ1M 5-20K Steps 32K Words Ethernet CPU CompactFlash support
CJ1G/CJ1H 10-250K Steps Up to 448K Ethernet, Serial High-end modular

C) Rack PLC Series

Model Program Memory I/O Capacity Features
CS1G/H 10-250K Steps Up to 5120 Loop control, 64MB CF, dual serial
CS1D 60-250K Steps Up to 5120 Duplex CPU, high diagnostics

Conclusion

Omron PLCs offer robust, scalable, and high-performance control solutions for industrial automation. From compact systems for small machinery to rack-mounted platforms for large-scale operations, Omron provides the tools needed for reliable and flexible automation.

Contact PLG Automation
Email: sales@plgautomation.com
Phone: 800-906-9271