Linux AutomationDirect Tools

The Linux AutomationDirect Tools package is a continually growing project with many core capabilities in a mature state. Some of its components are currently being used in a large commercial deployment. This package allows you to quickly jump right in to your custom application without having to spend costly time building and maintaining an in-house driver library. A command line library reference implementation is included allowing for fast diagnostics as well as the ability to manipulate PLC variables from inside shell scripts. The DirectNET library allows for both synchronous, and asynchronous IO models, and fits into existing event frameworks such as glib, eventlib, and PE with ease. Numerous included examples and verbose online documentation make getting started a breeze.

This software is currently in a beta state for more testing and finishing touches. A few aspects of the final details are yet to be determined, and the documentation continues to be fleshed out. Those interested in obtaining the beta releases should send email.

Related Links

Linux Journal article from '97 regarding Linux and Koyo PLC interaction.

The PuffinPLC project is an open source project that turns a PC running linux into PLC. Keep an eye on this one. This idea might work great for some situations, but to me the industrial strength of a PLC and the fragileness of a PC are polar opposites that compliment each other.

Another Linux Journal article from 2004 discussing different strategies for interfacing with automation hardware in linux.


Build control and monitoring systems without the absurdity and chaos of Windows.



  • Linux toolset for working with Automation Direct's PLC product line

  • Transfer data with a DirectNET network inside C, C++, Python, and shell scripts

  • Flash and save PLC memory images, configure PLC parameters, and more

  • Complete online documentation

  • Works on 64 bit machines, as well as embedded systems such as ARM platforms.


For availability information, general inquiries, or beta test information, send email to thomas at wsinnovations.com.