PC or Programmable Automation Controller?

The evolution of the microprocessor has put serious intelligence into manufacturing equipment, enabling higher overall equipment effectiveness and productivity. Even off the plant floor, many engineers are as comfortable with their personal computer as the in-laws or neighbor across the street. But despite the prevalence of microprocessing power in everything from the cell phone to the mainframe, do engineers need to be careful about what processors — with what I/O — they put on their floor, particularly in view of the Stuxnet virus and its inevitable offspring? What happens when the newest virus comes along?

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