Launchpad
Launchpad is a Cloud-based Web IDE (Integrated Development Environment) specifically designed for industrial automation applications such as machine control, robotics and process automation.
It allows engineers & developers to write, deploy, and debug code directly from a web browser, without the need to install or configure development tools on their local machine. It's hosted in the cloud, offering a virtual environment that can be accessed from anywhere, on any device with internet connectivity.
INFO
Supported programming languages are Python and IEC 61131-3 Structured Text. The IEC Standard Languages are specifically designed for Industrial Automation Applications. Read more at IEC 61131-3
Cloud vs Desktop IDE
The main difference between Launchpad and traditional desktop IDEs lies in its deployment and accessibility:
Deployment: Traditional IDEs require installation on a local machine, with configurations and dependencies tailored to that specific environment. Launchpad, however, is accessed via a web browser, with all necessary tools and environments hosted on remote servers.
Accessibility: Accessed from anywhere, on any device that has a browser and internet connectivity. This contrasts with desktop IDEs, which are typically tied to the specific machines they're installed on.
Collaboration: Real-time collaboration features, allowing multiple developers to work on the same project simultaneously. This is more cumbersome with desktop IDEs, which often require separate version control systems.
Advantages of Cloud-Based Web IDEs
No Setup Required: Start coding immediately without worrying about setting up development environments, installing dependencies, or configuring tools.
Cross-Device Compatibility: Accessed via web browser Launchpad can be used on any device offering greater flexibility.
Enhanced Collaboration: The ability to collaborate in real-time and share projects easily without dealing with local environment inconsistencies or conflicts.
Scalability: Leverage cloud computing resources, easily scaling up or down based on the needs of the project, which is particularly beneficial for projects with varying computational demands.
Automatic Updates and Maintenance: We ensure that all tools and features are up-to-date without the user having to manually install updates or patches.
Integrated Cloud Services: Seamless integration with other cloud services (like storage, databases, ai and compute platforms), simplifying the development workflow.
TIP
Launchpad can push code to most devices. To see a list of supported architectures and operating systems see Agents
Point of Difference
What makes Launchpad special is the ability to deploy soft and hard real time code to any device. This makes its very easy to develop then push code over the internet to the device.
The support for the IEC Standard and setting programs to hard real time makes it suitable for critical system that require execution determinism.
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Determining what elements of your application must be hard real time can be complex but is instrumental in getting the best performance. You can read more Real Time