PC-Based Automation Market - Size, Share, Industry Trends, and Forecasts (2024 - 2031)

By Offering:

Based on the offering, the market is bifurcated into Hardware and Software.

Trends in the offering:

• Industrial PC hardware is increasingly incorporating edge computing functionalities, enabling real-time data processing, and analytics, which are crucial for IoT applications and Industry 4.0.
• There is a rising trend in the use of application programming interfaces (API) for integrating various software applications and automation systems, enabling more flexible and scalable solutions.

The hardware offering segment accounted for the largest revenue share in the year 2023.

• Hardware offering includes industrial PCs, which play an important role in industrial automation systems.
• IPCs are essential for performing critical control functions and managing complex processes, making them a fundamental element in automation systems.
• Additionally, these PCs integrate with a wide range of industrial equipment and systems, providing flexible and scalable solutions that support automation.
• In June 2021, Beckhoff introduced the C7015 ultra-compact Industrial PC, a high-performance, space-saving industrial computer designed for demanding automation tasks. This model emphasized the trend towards compact yet powerful hardware solutions, essential for modern automation systems requiring high processing capabilities.
• Therefore, the robustness, flexibility, and ability to handle complex processing of IPC hardware is fueling the PC-based automation market demand.

The software offering segment is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.

• Software solutions are increasingly integrating AI and machine learning algorithms to enhance the automation process.
• These technologies enable more intelligent and adaptive systems that optimize processes, predict maintenance needs, and improve decision-making.
• Additionally, software with real-time data analytics capabilities enables operators to monitor and analyze data continuously by providing actionable insights.
• In April 2024, Yokogawa updated the CENTUM VP integrated production control system which is a core product in the OpreX Control and Safety system with advanced data analytics and cloud-based functionalities. The enhancements provide more robust control and monitoring capabilities.
• Hence, according to analysis real-time monitoring and data analytics of software solutions is propelling the PC-based automation market trend.

By Component:

Based on components the market is segmented into Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Human Machine Interface (HMI), SCADA, and others.

Trends in the component:

• The rising popularity of cloud-based HMI software is attributed to its features like real-time data access, remote monitoring, and seamless updates, improving operational efficiency and flexibility.
• SCADA is moving towards cloud-based platforms, providing scalable and flexible data management, storage, and analytics. Cloud SCADA systems are easier to implement and can be accessed remotely, which is crucial for industries with widespread operations.

The PLC component segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 47.92% in the year 2023.

• PLCs are fundamental to industrial automation as they provide the ability to control machinery and processes across a wide range of industries.
• These controllers are preferred for their robustness, real-time processing capabilities, and flexibility to integrate with advanced technologies including IoT and edge computing.
• In April 2023, Siemens' Simatic S7-1500V controller widens the current Simatic range and fulfills specific market needs like hosting PLC computing virtually. This is an expanding portfolio designed for production engineering, execution, and optimization, which Siemens is integrating into its offerings on Siemens Xcelerator – the digital business platform. Siemens is continuously combining IT and software capabilities with its Industrial Operations X.
• Therefore, due to versatility, reliability, and enhanced control over machinery, the PLC segment is proliferating the PC-based automation market growth.

The HMI component segment is anticipated to register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.

• HMI is a technology that enables the interaction of operators with the machines.
• The technology includes tactile, acoustic, bionic, and optical, which enhances user experience by providing touch-sense, voice control, and haptic feedback.
• Additionally, advancements in voice recognition, natural language processing (NLP), multi-modal interaction, and sound-based feedback are the reason for adoption.
• In January 2022, Google launched Nest Hub 2nd Gen, which features a voice-first interface that leverages advanced acoustic HMI technology. With improved voice recognition and NLP capabilities, the device offers seamless voice control for smart home management and other tasks.
• Hence, as per the analysis, the haptic feedback technology of HMI is driving the global PC-based automation market opportunities.

By Application:

Based on application, the market is segmented into Manufacturing, Medical, Retail, Energy and Utilities, Transportation, Building Automation, and others.

Trends in the application :

• Automation systems are increasingly incorporating advanced security features including integrated access control, video surveillance, and alarm systems, enhancing building safety and management.
• PC-based automation is being used to develop intelligent transportation systems that optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and improve safety through real-time data collection and analysis.

The manufacturing application segment accounted for the largest revenue share in the year 2023.

• The manufacturing sector is adopting Industry 4.0 principles which are synonymous with smart manufacturing.
• It includes the integration of IoT, AI, and data analytics into production processes.
• For instance, ABB Ability upgraded Manufacturing Execution System for Pulp and Paper, incorporating AI-driven analytics and real-time monitoring capabilities. These enhancements demonstrated the increasing reliance on PC-based automation to improve process efficiency.
• Consequently, the smart manufacturing principle of Industry 4.0 is boosting the PC-based automation market share.

Energy and utilities are anticipated to register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.

• The growing need for efficiency, sustainability, and real-time management of energy systems is driving the energy utilities sector.
• The companies modernize their energy infrastructure and the deployment of smart grids dynamically adjusts to changing energy demand.
• Additionally, they focus on automated fault detection and balanced electricity load to enhance their performance.
• In February 2024, Siemens launched Gridscale X software enables utilities to scale grid capacity and increase DER visibility, which is essential for grid decarbonization. The grid operators can accelerate their digital transformation in the planning, operations, and maintenance phases.
• Thus, as per the analysis, the energy and utilities segment is expected to propel the global PC-based market demand.

Regional Analysis:

The regions covered are North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.

Asia Pacific region was valued at USD 8.19 Billion in 2023. Moreover, it is projected to grow by USD 8.50 Billion in 2024 and reach over USD 12.66 Billion by 2031. Out of this, China accounted for the maximum revenue share of 30.9%. Asia Pacific region is experiencing significant growth in the PC-based automation market, fueled by rapid industrialization and the adoption of smart manufacturing. Countries including China, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea are at the forefront of adopting automation solutions.

• In December 2023, Advantech (Taiwan) introduced ARK-3533 a compact fanless edge computer tailored for kiosk and robotics applications. It offers intelligent control management and seamlessly integrates with other systems, catering to diverse industries with its robust performance and rugged features.

North America is estimated to reach over USD 17.70 Billion by 2031 from a value of USD 11.64 Billion in 2023. The dominance of North America in the PC-based automation market is propelled by the advanced industrial base and widespread adoption of edge technologies including cloud computing. The United States and Canada are primary contributors to the growth with industries ranging from manufacturing to energy adopting automation solutions to improve operational efficiency.

• In June 2022, Cisco (US) expanded its portfolio of edge computing and automation solutions. It integrated PC-based automation with advanced cloud-based networking and unified technologies to optimize data processing for businesses.

As per the PC-based automation market analysis, Europe including Germany, the UK, France, and Italy, plays a significant role in the human-machine interface market. Industrial automation and the adoption of Industry 4.0 are fueling consistent growth in the area.

Latin America is experiencing a growing industrial sector, rising demand for automated solutions, and increasing focus on enhancing operational efficiency.

The growth of the PC-based automation market in the Middle East and Africa is being propelled by a rise in industrialization, investments in city infrastructure projects, and the expansion of the oil and gas sector.