What is a Soft PLC?
A Soft PLC runs control logic on standard computers instead of proprietary hardware. StateTick takes this further with visual state machines and complete signal observability.
The Evolution of Industrial Control
Traditional PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) are dedicated hardware devices designed for industrial automation. They have served the industry well for decades, but come with significant limitations: proprietary programming environments, expensive hardware, vendor lock-in, and logic that is notoriously difficult to debug.
A Soft PLC (or Software PLC) breaks free from these constraints by running control logic on standard computing hardware. Instead of dedicated PLC modules, you use industrial PCs, embedded Linux systems.
StateTick is the next evolution: a Soft PLC built around visual state machines instead of ladder logic. Every machine behavior is designed as a clear, readable diagram. Every signal is logged. Every state transition is traceable. When something goes wrong at 3am, you don't dig through cryptic logs — you see exactly what happened.
Soft PLC vs Traditional PLC
| Feature | Soft PLC | Traditional PLC |
|---|---|---|
| Runs on standard hardware | ✓ | ✗ |
| Visual state machine design | ✓ | ✗ |
| Real-time signal history | ✓ | ✗ |
| Git version control | ✓ | ✗ |
| No vendor lock-in | ✓ | ✗ |
| Deterministic execution | ✓ | ✓ |
| Industrial protocols | ✓ | ✓ |
| Proprietary hardware required | ✗ | ✓ |
Why Engineers Choose Soft PLCs
Hardware Freedom
Run on any Linux-capable hardware. Industrial PCs, Raspberry Pi.
Readable Logic
State machines are inherently visual and self-documenting. No ladder logic spaghetti.
Full Observability
Every signal, every state transition, logged and traceable. Debug faults in minutes.
Modern Workflow
Version control with Git. Branch, diff, merge, collaborate like software engineers.
Real-Time Performance
Linux real-time Linux kernel delivers deterministic microsecond-level timing.
Future-Proof
Standard industrial protocols supported. Connect to any equipment without compatibility issues.
Ready to Try a Modern Soft PLC?
StateTick combines Soft PLC architecture with visual state machines. Download free and see the difference.
View Pricing →