The Controller Is the Brain
Every physical installation needs something to read sensors, make decisions and operate outputs. The choice of controller affects cost, reliability, how easily the system can be maintained and how seriously it can be trusted with anything safety-related.
The Main Options
We use all three across our installations, depending on the job.
- Microcontrollers such as Arduino — cheap, flexible and ideal for prototypes and light-duty pieces
- Single-board computers — more processing for vision, audio and networking
- PLCs — industrial controllers designed for reliable, continuous operation
- Industrial PCs — robust computers for heavy software loads in tough settings
- Hybrid designs — a computer for content with a controller handling the hardware
Choosing a control platform? We offer free consultations on installation control... Let's discuss your project →
Match It to the Risk
A prototype or small decorative piece can run happily on a hobby-grade board. A device that moves heavy parts near the public, runs for months unattended or has to be maintained by someone else deserves industrial hardware, proper wiring and documentation.
Safety functions in particular should never depend on a hobby-grade controller alone.
Think About Who Maintains It
A clever custom board is a problem if only its creator understands it. PLCs and standard industrial parts can be serviced by many engineers. We explain these trade-offs to agencies and clients through our partnership service before the design is fixed.
