Abstract: In some embodiments, a method (200) is provided for creating a virtual programmable logic controller (PLC) based on a physical PLC. The method (200) includes (1) connecting to the physical PLC over a network (201); (2) obtaining configuration data from the physical PLC over the network (202); (3) if an expansion module is coupled to the physical PLC, obtaining configuration data for the expansion module over the network (204); (4) storing configuration data for the physical PLC in a configuration medium (206); and (5) if configuration data for the expansion module is obtained, storing configuration data for the expansion module in the configuration medium (206). Numerous other embodiments are provided.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method (200) is provided for creating a virtual programmable logic controller (PLC) based on a physical PLC. The method (200) includes (1) connecting to the physical PLC over a network (201); (2) obtaining configuration data from the physical PLC over the network (202); (3) if an expansion module is coupled to the physical PLC, obtaining configuration data for the expansion module over the network (204); (4) storing configuration data for the physical PLC in a configuration medium (206); and (5) if configuration data for the expansion module is obtained, storing configuration data for the expansion module in the configuration medium (206). Numerous other embodiments are provided.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to simulation of one or more PLCs 302 which are to be physically implemented on conjunction with other devices 304 306, such as sensors or other devices 304 which provide information or signals to the PLC and/or actuators or other devices 306 which are controlled or otherwise receive information or signals from the PLC 302, e.g. to monitor and/or control various industrial machines or processes. The characteristics, physical or other attributes, of the interconnection(s) 308 between the PLC 302 and the other devices 304 306 are modeled 116 118 120 and simulated to ensure that the PLC 302 behaves in a manner consistent with the characteristics of the interconnection 308. Accordingly, using the disclosed embodiments, simulation of a PLC 302 will provide a more accurate representation of the expected actual operation thereof in the actual environment.