MARGEE Turns block I/O modules into controllers
With MARGEE, users can program Turck's block I/O modules in Visual Studio Code, use Structured Text, and manage their projects with Git
Benefits
- A Broader Range of Programmers: OT and IT Professionals Work Together in a Single Environment
- Shorter cycle times and lower network load thanks to decentralized logic
- Less integration effort, since machine modules are fully tested in-house
- No firmware update required: All ARGEE-4-compatible devices support MARGEE immediately
With MARGEE, Turck is introducing a programming environment that enables block I/O modules to be used as programmable controllers with web-based visualization. The extension runs in Visual Studio Code and uses Structured Text as a standardized PLC programming language. Users can thus implement PLC-free automation and standalone applications such as level monitoring on tanks or pick-to-light assembly stations under MES or ERP control. When combined with a PLC, the module handles decentralized logic. All devices that support ARGEE 4 are also compatible with MARGEE; no firmware update is required.
Structured Text and Git Integration in Visual Studio Code
MARGEE is designed for programmers with an IT background and uses Visual Studio Code. Code completion, syntax highlighting, and debugging speed up the creation of control code. Through Git integration, teams can collaboratively manage versions of large projects; documentation and sample programs are available online. The web visualization offers advanced views, offline previews, and debugging. Users manage MARGEE projects in the Turck Automation Suite (TAS), including batch operations: downloading, deleting, protecting, and renaming. For OT-related tasks, ARGEE remains available with programming blocks; the two project formats cannot be converted between each other.
Decentralized Logic for Modular Machines and Conveyor Belts
Decentralized logic shifts control tasks to the machine unit. This shortens cycle times, reduces network load, and keeps systems running even if the PLC fails. Manufacturers test modular units in-house and replace defective devices individually. In modular conveyor systems, the hardware interface is limited to Ethernet and power supply. Typical applications include modular machines, protocol conversions from fieldbus to serial, and systems with critical downtime.
