It is without doubt that computer-controlled plant and components play a large part in many industries and technical computing is the term that is generally used when computing and mathematics is used to problem solve in a range of applications in this sector. Working in this field requires skill and knowledge in order to successfully accomplish the task and achieve the required outcome and a knowledge of a relevant computer programming language is necessary.

Engineering is one of the sectors where computer-controlled plant has become common place as companies seek to streamline their production of goods, saving time and money wherever possible. Many factories are using robots instead of people to carry out some of the tasks especially if the task is monotonous or requires a level of accuracy that a human may find challenging to attain such as cutting and welding of metal at a factory that is involved in metal finishing production or in the production of medical equipment. Robotics can also be used in logistics where heavy materials need to be transported from one place in the factory to another constantly. All of these robots are controlled by computers and need to be programmed to carry out the required task and monitored to check for errors in the programs.

Another application for technical computing in industry is in the use of PLCs, that is programmable logic controllers which are computers that monitor inputs and outputs of a piece of machinery and make logic-based decisions for a range of automated processes. PLCs are hardwearing and can survive quite challenging conditions in a factory environment including severe heat or cold, dust and extreme moisture. The programming language that they use is easily understood, so they can be programmed without much difficulty by someone with some knowledge of computer programming. PLCs are modular which means that they can be plugged into many different systems. In engineering, electrical relays are often used to switch electrical components on and off but problems can occur if there is arcing between contacts as this generates high temperatures that affect how the contacts open and close so replacing relays with PLCs is one way this technology helps prevent overheating of contacts and thus costly breakdowns of machinery.

PLCs do however have some disadvantages as they do not perform well when handling more complex data and an external monitor is often needed in order to program and monitor the PLC effectively.