The phrase identifies a process associated with acquiring a software application. Specifically, it refers to the act of obtaining a digital copy of a program designed to emulate the behavior of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and related machinery, enabling users to operate and test virtualized industrial equipment on a computer system. An example would be initiating a transfer of the EasyPLC Machine Simulator software package from a vendor’s website to a personal computer for subsequent installation.
This acquisition process is significant because it provides a cost-effective and safe means of developing and validating PLC programs without the need for physical hardware. This offers numerous advantages, including reduced equipment costs, minimized risk of damage to real-world systems during testing, and enhanced learning opportunities for individuals seeking to gain proficiency in industrial automation. Historically, such simulation tools have been instrumental in accelerating development cycles and improving the reliability of industrial control systems.
