🎤 How PLCnext Technology is changing industrial Automation forever
Open automation, real-time performance, and seamless IT/OT convergence are no longer future promises. In the latest episode of Unplugged: An IIoT Podcast, PLCnext Technology takes center stage as a platform that is redefining how industrial automation systems are designed, developed, and scaled.
Hosts Phil Seboa and Ed Fuentes talk with Martin Boers, Technical Specialist for PLCnext Technology at Phoenix Contact, about what sets PLCnext Technology apart from traditional automation approaches – and why openness has become a key enabler for future-ready industrial systems.
From Controller to Open Automation Ecosystem
PLCnext Technology goes far beyond the classic PLC. Based on an open, Linux-driven architecture, it combines deterministic real-time performance with the freedom to use multiple programming languages – from IEC 61131‑3 to high-level languages such as C/C++, Python, or MATLAB® Simulink®.
In the episode, Martin explains how this openness enables true collaboration between IT and OT teams on one common platform. Parallel development, shorter innovation cycles, and scalable automation concepts become possible without being locked into proprietary systems.
Making IT/OT Convergence a Reality
A central theme of the conversation is IT/OT convergence. PLCnext Technology is designed to connect control, edge, and cloud environments seamlessly – without compromising real-time capability or security.
By enabling consistent data exchange across all layers, PLCnext Technology supports scalable digitalization strategies and data-driven applications, helping companies move from isolated automation solutions toward integrated industrial ecosystems.
Driven by Community and Openness
Another key differentiator is the PLCnext Community. Instead of developing automation solutions in isolation, PLCnext Technology thrives on collaboration between developers, system integrators, partners, and technology providers worldwide.
With the PLCnext Store and the community platform, users can share knowledge, deploy apps, and co-create solutions – accelerating innovation and unlocking new automation use cases beyond traditional boundaries.
Automation with a Vision
PLCnext Technology also plays a central role in enabling the All Electric Society. By combining open automation, secure communication, and modular system architectures, it supports sustainable, energy-efficient, and future-proof industrial solutions.
Listen Now
🎧 Why PLCnext Technology is changing industrial Automation forever with our colleague Martin and host Phil Seboa
Discover how open automation, IT/OT convergence, and a strong developer community are shaping the future of industrial automation.
👉 Listen to the full episode ‘Why PLCnext Technology Is Changing Industrial Automation Forever‘ of Unplugged: An IIoT Podcast and follow our PLCnext Community now.
