The Windows Control and Automation Technology

The Beckhoff TwinCAT software system turns any compatible PC into a real-time controller with a multi-PLC system, NC axis control, programming environment and operating station. TwinCAT replaces conventional PLC and NC/CNC controllers as well as operating devices with:

• open, compatible PC hardware
• embedded IEC 61131-3 software PLC, software NC and software CNC in
  Windows NT/2000/XP, NT/XP
• Embedded, CE
• programming and run-time systems optionally together on one PC or separated
• connection to all common fieldbuses
• PC interfaces are supported
• data communication with user interfaces and other programs by means of open Microsoft standards (OPC, OCX, DLL etc.)

TwinCAT is the reference EtherCAT master implementation and supports all EtherCAT features.