What Eclipse 4diac is

Eclipse 4diac is free software for developing IEC 61499 function-block applications in C++. It runs on Linux, macOS and Windows and includes firmware debugging. The listed protocol support covers OPC UA, OPC DA, HTTP, MQTT, RS232 serial, FMI, TSN, FBDK/IP, Modbus, openPOWERLINK and Arrowhead. Hardware targets include Raspberry Pi, BeagleBone Black, PLC01A1, Revolution Pi, Wago PFC200, PiFace Digital 2, µMIC.200, Bosch Rexroth PLC and Lego Mindstorms EV3. Deployment can target Windows and Linux, including ARM systems, plus NetOS, eCos, rcX, vxWorks and freeRTOS. The deployment scope also includes PLCs and embedded devices. This gives developers named communication protocols, boards and runtime environments spanning desktop, industrial-control and embedded work. The project is available from eclipse.dev/4diac.

Who it suits

Eclipse 4diac suits developers building IEC 61499 or C++ applications for PLCs and embedded devices. It is relevant when the listed boards, protocols or deployment runtimes match the project.

Good to know, and what to watch

Free software
Runs on Linux, macOS and Windows
Includes firmware debugging
Supports extensive industrial protocols
Targets PLCs and embedded devices

Hardware support is limited to listed boards
Deployment depends on listed runtime environments
Function-block work requires IEC 61499 knowledge

The verdict

Eclipse 4diac provides a free development environment with firmware debugging and broad named protocol, board and runtime support. Its fit depends on whether your hardware and deployment target appear in the supported lists.