What Is Turck MARGEE?

MARGEE from Turck expands the capabilities of their block I/O modules by enabling control logic to run directly at the I/O level. Instead of sending every control task to a central PLC, selected functions can be processed locally at the machine.

The programming environment runs as an extension in Visual Studio Code and uses Structured Text (ST), a standardized PLC programming language. This combines industrial automation with development tools and workflows familiar to IT programmers.

Depending on the application, a MARGEE-compatible Turck I/O module can therefore perform decentralized control tasks alongside a PLC or enable a standalone application without a separate PLC.

Program Turck I/O Modules in Visual Studio Code

MARGEE provides developers with familiar programming functions such as code completion, syntax highlighting and debugging. Integrated Git version control enables teams to collaborate on larger automation projects and manage different project versions.

MARGEE also provides web-based visualization with advanced views, offline preview and debugging. This allows control logic and visualization to be implemented directly at the decentralized automation level.

Devices that already support Turck ARGEE 4 are compatible with MARGEE without a firmware update. ARGEE remains available for OT-oriented applications using graphical programming blocks.

PLC-Free and Decentralized Automation with MARGEE

Moving control logic closer to sensors and actuators can reduce the amount of data that needs to be exchanged continuously with the central controller.

According to Turck, decentralized logic can shorten cycle times, reduce network load and increase system availability. Local functions can continue operating even if the central PLC fails, while modular machine units can be programmed and tested independently before being integrated into the complete machine.

This makes programmable Turck block I/O modules particularly interesting for modular machines and distributed automation architectures where local control can simplify the overall system.

Typical Applications for Turck MARGEE

MARGEE can be used for both standalone automation and decentralized control within larger PLC-based systems. Typical applications include level monitoring on tanks, Pick-to-Light assembly stations controlled by MES or ERP systems, modular machines, conveyor systems, protocol conversion and systems with critical downtime.

For modular conveyor systems, decentralizing control can also simplify the hardware interface to Ethernet and power supply.

Manage MARGEE Projects with Turck Automation Suite (TAS)

Turck Automation Suite (TAS) provides centralized management of MARGEE projects. Users can download, delete, protect and rename projects through TAS, with batch processing available for managing multiple devices or projects.

The combination of Turck block I/O modules, MARGEE and Turck Automation Suite creates a scalable automation architecture: I/O and control logic can be distributed directly to the machine level, while projects and devices can be managed centrally.