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.
Hologram
Hologram provides a global cellular platform that allows you to connect and manage your IoT device fleet across more than 470 carrier networks using a single programmable SIM card.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | CODESYS | Hologram |
|---|---|---|
| Website | codesys.com | hologram.io |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $1.5/month |
| 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 | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Kempten, Germany | Chicago, USA |
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.
Hologram
Hologram is a cellular connectivity platform designed to help you deploy and manage IoT devices anywhere in the world. Instead of juggling multiple carrier contracts, you get a single global SIM that automatically switches to the best available local network. This ensures your devices stay connected across borders without manual intervention or roaming headaches.
You can manage your entire fleet through a centralized dashboard or integrate connectivity data directly into your own applications using their robust API. The platform is built for scale, supporting everything from a single prototype to massive industrial deployments. By providing real-time visibility into data usage and device health, it helps you eliminate connectivity gaps and control operational costs effectively.
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.
Hologram Features
- Global eUICC SIMs. Connect your devices to over 470 networks globally with a single SIM that supports remote over-the-air updates.
- Hyper-Network Access. Access multiple tier-1 carriers in every country to ensure your devices always latch onto the strongest available signal.
- Hologram Dashboard. Monitor data usage, manage SIM states, and troubleshoot connectivity issues across your entire fleet in real-time.
- Usage Alerts. Set custom thresholds for data consumption so you get notified before any device exceeds its planned budget.
- Inbound SMS. Send machine-to-machine SMS messages to your devices directly from the dashboard or via API for remote configuration.
- Cloud Data Connector. Route your IoT data securely to AWS, Google Cloud, or your own private endpoints without complex setup.
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
Hologram Pricing
- Global network access
- Pay-as-you-go data rates
- Standard dashboard access
- API access included
- No long-term contracts
- Everything in Professional, plus:
- Custom data pooling
- Volume-based discounts
- Dedicated account management
- Advanced security features
- Custom contract terms
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
Hologram
Pros
- Seamless global roaming across hundreds of carriers
- User-friendly dashboard for managing large device fleets
- Excellent developer documentation and API support
- Reliable connectivity in remote or international locations
Cons
- Data costs can scale quickly for high-bandwidth apps
- Technical support response times can vary
- Hardware shipping costs for SIMs can be high