Glossary Updates12 new terms added to the glossaries · October 2, 2026, 22:44 CEST
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Glossary · PLC and control programming

PLCnext Technology

Also known as: PLCnext

German: PLCnext Technology

In industrial automation, PLCnext Technology is Phoenix Contact's open control platform, combining a real-time runtime for IEC 61131-3 and high-level language programs, engineering software, an app store for software extensions and a Linux-based operating system.

  • PLC programming
  • Vendor product

In one sentence

PLCnext Technology is Phoenix Contact's open control platform for IEC 61131-3 and high-level language programs on Linux.

Example

A machine builder adds a cloud connector app from the PLCnext Store to its controllers instead of programming the connection itself.

How it applies

  • Engineering: The platform lets teams combine classic PLC programming with code from IT development, using familiar tools such as Visual Studio or Eclipse for high-level languages. This can reuse existing software and skills, but mixing languages requires clear rules for timing and data exchange.
  • Software lifecycle: Apps and open-source components have their own versions, licenses and vulnerabilities. They belong in the software bill of materials and in the update process, see Update capability.
  • Operation: Controllers built on an open platform should be treated as networked computers as well as controllers: user accounts, services and ports need hardening.
  • Documentation: Explain the software architecture: which functions run in IEC 61131-3 code, which in apps or high-level languages, and how they communicate. Record versions of the runtime, apps and libraries for each delivered machine.

PLCnext Technology vs. soft PLC

A Soft PLC is PLC runtime software on general-purpose hardware. PLCnext Technology is a platform on the vendor's own controllers that opens them to additional languages and software. Both reflect the trend toward Software-defined automation.

Keep in mind: product names and features change. Check platform components, supported tools and store offerings against the vendor's current documentation.

By knowledge.aitechdoc.world · Published September 26, 2026 · Last reviewed

Source: AI TechDoc Blog editorial definition, based on vendor product information

Definitions follow the cited standards and specifications. Where a source is a copyrighted publication, such as an ISO, IEC or EN standard, the definition is a close paraphrase, not a verbatim quotation, so as not to infringe copyright. We recommend reading the original publication. The sections “How it applies” are editorial commentary by AI TechDoc Blog and are not part of any standard.

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