Raspberry Pi PLC
What it is
A Raspberry Pi PLC is an industrial controller based on Raspberry Pi technology, designed for automation, monitoring and connected systems that require more processing capacity, operating system support and advanced communications.
When to use it
Raspberry Pi PLCs are suitable for applications that need industrial control together with Linux-based flexibility, data processing, remote connectivity, dashboard integration or edge computing capabilities.
Why choose it
- Industrial controller powered by Raspberry Pi
- Suitable for automation, monitoring and edge applications
- Linux and Raspberry Pi OS environment
- Good fit for projects that require processing power and communication flexibility
- Available in several I/O sizes and configurations
How it compares
Compared to Arduino-based PLCs, the Raspberry Pi PLC range is more processing-oriented and better suited to Linux-based applications. Compared to ESP32 PLCs, it is a stronger option when the project needs operating system support, multiprocess environments or higher-level software integration.
Industrial Shields Raspberry Pi PLC range
What it is
The Industrial Shields Raspberry Pi PLC range includes compact, medium and higher-capacity industrial controllers built around the same Raspberry Pi logic, with differences mainly based on I/O count, output type and installation requirements.
Main models
- Raspberry PLC CPU-Gateway
- Raspberry PLC 19 Relay
- Raspberry PLC 21
- Raspberry PLC 38 Relay
- Raspberry PLC 42
- Raspberry PLC 57 Relay
- Raspberry PLC 58
How models differ
The main difference between Raspberry Pi PLC models is the number and type of inputs and outputs, as well as whether the project needs a more compact controller, a relay-oriented model or a larger system with more I/O capacity. The family keeps the same general Raspberry Pi-based approach while adapting to different automation and monitoring needs.
Range structure
- Raspberry PLC CPU-Gateway: designed for projects focused on connectivity, data acquisition and gateway functions
- Raspberry PLC 19 Relay and 21: compact controllers for smaller applications, choosing relay or non-relay logic depending on the installation
- Raspberry PLC 38 Relay and 42: mid-range options for systems that require more I/O and a broader control capacity
- Raspberry PLC 57 Relay and 58: higher-capacity models for installations with larger I/O demand, with relay-oriented or non-relay configurations depending on the project
When to choose each type
- Choose Raspberry PLC CPU-Gateway when the project is more focused on communications, protocol bridging or connected infrastructure
- Choose 19 Relay or 21 for compact systems with lower I/O requirements
- Choose 38 Relay or 42 for medium-sized automation and monitoring projects
- Choose 57 Relay or 58 for applications with higher I/O demand
Industrial Shields products
- Raspberry Pi PLC range
See full overview here.