Digital I/O modules operate with 24 V inputs and need components to tolerate up to 30 V. In addition, digital I/O are usually large in number. They also require short circuit and overload protection. There are a  number of fieldbus options – both serial (RS-485, DeviceNET, profibus, CAN etc.) and Ethernet based. Communication modules with components which can address multiple fieldbus options are desirable. Extended cable reach and diagnostics to debug wire breaks would give system designers significant value. Finally, integrated digital isolation on the interface transceivers is highly desirable to reduce board space. With regard to processors, development platforms and software tools in addition to support which quicken time to market are highly desired. Connectivity options ranging from Ethernet ports to UARTs to simple SPI ports are desired. Ethernet enables IT departments to integrate the factory network to the corporate enterprise network. Eighty percent of industrial control applications use simple low cost “micro” PLCs with lots of digital I/O and need functions such as diagnostics under fault conditions, watchdog timers, low power, multiple SPI ports, UARTs and integrated analog peripherals. MCUs (Micro Controller Units) are a good choice for these applications. For applications which push capabilities and need higher loop rates and advanced control algorithms to handle multiple functional domains like logic, PID control and motion, higher performance MPUs (Micro Processing Units) are needed. Texas Instruments provides solutions to address all these needs.