CODESYS
CODESYS is a comprehensive hardware-independent automation software providing a complete development environment for creating industrial control applications based on the international IEC 61131-3 programming standard.
EPLAN Electric P8
EPLAN Electric P8 is a consistent, integrated, and fast engineering software system for the planning and design of electrical engineering for machines and plant systems.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | CODESYS | EPLAN Electric P8 |
|---|---|---|
| Website | codesys.com | eplan-software.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Custom |
| Starting Price | Free | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1994 | 1984 |
| Headquarters | Kempten, Germany | Monheim am Rhein, Germany |
Overview
CODESYS
CODESYS provides you with a complete development environment for industrial automation. Instead of being locked into specific hardware, you can program controllers from different manufacturers using a single, standardized tool. You can develop applications using all five IEC 61131-3 programming languages, allowing you to choose the best method for your specific logic needs, whether it is ladder logic or structured text.
The platform handles everything from basic PLC programming to complex motion control and safety functions. You can also design integrated web-based visualizations to monitor your machines from any device. It is widely used by machine builders, system integrators, and hardware manufacturers who need a flexible, professional-grade environment to manage modern industrial internet of things (IIoT) requirements.
EPLAN Electric P8
EPLAN Electric P8 offers you a comprehensive solution for designing electrical control systems and automation projects. You can create high-quality schematics, manage master data, and generate automated reports for production and service. The software supports various engineering methods, from manual creation to standardized, template-based design, allowing you to adapt the tool to your specific project requirements and company standards.
By using this platform, you can significantly reduce your design time while improving documentation quality. It integrates your electrical engineering with other disciplines like fluid power and 3D cabinet design through the EPLAN Platform. You can easily share data across your entire value chain, ensuring that your manufacturing and maintenance teams always have access to the most up-to-date project information.
Overview
CODESYS Features
- IEC 61131-3 Programming Develop your applications using all five standard programming languages including Ladder Diagram and Structured Text within one integrated tool.
- Integrated Visualization Create professional user interfaces directly in the development environment to monitor and operate your machines via web browsers.
- Fieldbus Configurator Configure common industrial networks like EtherCAT, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP without needing external third-party software tools.
- Motion Control Program complex multi-axis movements and CNC functions using integrated libraries that follow PLCopen standards for precision.
- Safety Integration Develop safety-critical applications within the same environment to meet SIL2 or SIL3 requirements for your industrial machinery.
- IIoT Connectivity Connect your controllers to the cloud using built-in protocols like MQTT and OPC UA for real-time data analysis.
EPLAN Electric P8 Features
- Automatic Reporting. Generate comprehensive reports like bill of materials, terminal diagrams, and cable schedules automatically based on your schematic data.
- Macro Technology. Save and reuse standardized circuit segments to speed up your design process and maintain high engineering standards.
- Multi-User Operation. Collaborate with your team on the same project simultaneously while keeping all data synchronized in real-time.
- Global Standards Support. Design your projects according to international standards like IEC, NFPA, or GOST with built-in support for multiple languages.
- Data Portal Integration. Access over a million device data sets from leading manufacturers directly within your design environment to save time.
- Error Checking. Run automated logical checks to identify short circuits or missing connections before your design ever reaches the shop floor.
Pricing Comparison
CODESYS Pricing
- All IEC 61131-3 languages
- Integrated fieldbus configurators
- Basic visualization editor
- Simulation mode
- Free software updates
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Static Analysis tools
- Profiling and execution monitoring
- SVN integration for version control
- Test Manager for automated testing
- Continuous Integration support
EPLAN Electric P8 Pricing
Pros & Cons
CODESYS
Pros
- Hardware independence allows you to switch controller brands easily
- Free base development software reduces your initial project costs
- Standardized programming makes it easier to find skilled engineering talent
- Extensive library ecosystem speeds up your application development time
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to IEC standards
- Store-based licensing can be confusing for first-time buyers
- Documentation is technically dense and requires prior automation knowledge
EPLAN Electric P8
Pros
- Extensive automation capabilities for generating project documentation
- Massive library of manufacturer parts via the Data Portal
- Highly customizable to fit specific company engineering standards
- Seamless data exchange with other EPLAN platform products
Cons
- Significant learning curve for new or occasional users
- Higher price point compared to basic CAD tools
- Requires powerful hardware for large, complex projects