TECHNOLOGY n 19 www.drivesncontrols.com April 2026 PHOENIX CONTACT HAS LAUNCHED a hardwareindependent software controller based on its PLCnext technology. It predicts that Virtual PLCnext Control, which allows flexible automation functions to be performed in virtualised IT environments, will open up new possibilities for scalable, resourcesaving automation, without needing any physical controller hardware. The controller package is based on the Open Container Initiative (OCI). It can run as a container application in IT infrastructures such as Docker and Hyper-V, on Windows or Linux, locally or in the cloud. This architecture allows rapid deployment, simple scaling, and a high degree of flexibility when integrating it into automation and IT infrastructures. “With Virtual PLCnext Control, we are taking the controller straight to where it is needed today – the IT world,” explains Phoenix Contact’s controls product manager, Andre Brand. “Our customers benefit from high-level scalability, rapid deployment, and the ability to implement automation projects flexibly, while saving resources.” The technology supports: programming using the IEC 61131-3 languages; integration with higher-level languages; OPC UA; MQTT; and the use of apps from the PLCnext store. It keeps the familiar development environment – but avoids the need for controller hardware. Phoenix Contact suggests that Virtual PLCnext Control will be ideal for industrial applications where classic controls have reached their limits – such as simulations, testing, decentralised controls, or as part of edge architectures. www.phoenixcontact.co.uk PLCnext-based software controller avoids the need for hardware SIEMENS HAS ANNOUNCED a new generation of its Logo! intelligent logic controller for small automation projects which, it says, “marks a comprehensive generational change after 11 years”. The new Logo! 9 controller – aimed at switching and control tasks from mechanical engineering to building services – offers enhanced performance, and incorporates a colour touchscreen display in its base module. “The requirements for compact controllers have changed fundamentally,” says Annemarie Große Frie, head of automation systems at Siemens Digital Industries. “What could once be realised with simple logic functions, now requires precise data processing, intuitive operating concepts, and seamless security. Logo! 9 combines the computing power and security standards of larger systems with the familiar simplicity and cost-effectiveness of a compact logic module for the first time, future-proofing our customers' applications.” The new controllers double the number of function blocks, providing up to 800, and enabling more complex logic applications. In many cases, no other control devices will be needed. An extended expansion level provides up to 64 digital inputs, 60 digital outputs, and 16 analogue inputs and outputs each, supporting larger and more demanding projects. A new analogue expansion module (AM4) with selectable resolution, along with new calculation functions and floating-point number support, enables precise control and measured value processing in the controller. These enhancements will result in greater application flexibility, fewer additional components, and thus lower effort – without complicating the architecture unnecessarily. The new, large colour touch display, with a resolution of 320 × 240 pixels, shows more information at a glance, ensuring clear operation and fast diagnostics. There is also the option of a separate 4.3-inch text display (480 × 272 pixels) with two Ethernet ports and secure communication to the Logo! base module, providing even better visualisation and readability, located on a machine. The accompanying Logo! Soft Comfort (LSC) version 9 software is available in a plugand-play format via a USB stick and is compatible with older projects and generations. The built-in Logo! Web Editor, which includes simulation facilities, now supports macOS and Linux, as well as Windows. The new User Management (UMAC) with four roles ensures clear rights distribution – from administrator to operator – and accelerates engineering processes significantly. Secure boot and secure Logo! communications protect against unwanted manipulation and unauthorised access. Firmware updates via LSC and factory resets with IP retention, ensure secure, efficient operation throughout the lifecycle. Siemens says that the combination of security and sustainability makes Logo! 9 future-proof. ‘Futureproof’ next-gen logic controller delivers the power of larger systems The new generation of Siemens’ Logo! logic controllers handles more complex applications
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