What is a key function of an RTU compared to a PLC?

The key function of a Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) compared to a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) lies in the RTU's design for specific applications in the field, particularly in environments such as remote monitoring and control systems. RTUs are typically equipped to run simpler, more autonomous programs that focus on collecting data from sensors, transmitting this data back to a central control system, and performing basic control functions.

This simplicity is crucial in many industrial scenarios, where RTUs are deployed in remote locations without constant human oversight. Their lower complexity and specialized functions allow them to monitor, collect, and relay data effectively without the need for extensive programming typically required in a PLC, which is designed to handle complex control processes in manufacturing and automation environments.

In contrast, PLCs possess the capability to be programmed with more complex logic and can handle intricate tasks due to their flexible programming environments. This distinction highlights the RTU's role as a reliable data-gathering device rather than as a controller that requires sophisticated programming and logic operations.