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As given in this question and the most up-voted answer, it's suggested that PLC-related questions may be on-topic. However, upon reading the tour, it points out this meta question, which indicates that only consumer-computer related systems are on-topic.

I have a question specifically regarding a motor to perform a specific function, that must be able to be driven from a PLC (even if it's as simple as a "move forward" or "move backward" signal), but I'm very seriously confused as to whether it fits here or not.

So, is a question regarding a PLC peripheral on-topic? Not a PLC itself, but a device that would be controlled through the PLC.

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The latter meta question that you referred to is our current canonical definition of scope. Undo's answer provides a very nicely quotable definition:

Hardware is any primarily electronic item that can perform more than one task, designed to interface with, connect to, or be, a primary computing platform in day-to-day operation.

A primary computing platform is any primarily electronic item that can perform meaningful tasks on its own with minimal external support, and designed to be operated by a user, consumer or professional.

Now, a PLC peripheral is not a PCP, but the PLC itself is, I'd say - it performs meaningful tasks with limited external support, and is operated by a professional (i.e. you, the developer). Since peripherals for that PLC by definition interface with it, that makes them on-topic under "interfaces with a PCP".

So - yes, that's on-topic. Usual rules and guidance about providing enough detail applies.

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  • Excellent - I'll be sure to read the "providing enough detail" link when I have more time, but I'll refrain from posting the question until then as well. :)
    – Der Kommissar
    Commented Sep 14, 2017 at 23:46
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    @202_accepted Awesome. TL;DR: we need enough information to be able to filter potential solutions down to a handful of products rather than "literally any monitor/keyboard/PC/motor will fit"; the more information you can provide, the better.
    – ArtOfCode Mod
    Commented Sep 14, 2017 at 23:48
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    Absolutely, I just scanned that and it's all pretty basic, entirely expected common-sense information it seems. (Things that I would completely expect to be required, that is.) Much appreciated on the response, this completely clears up what my concerns were.
    – Der Kommissar
    Commented Sep 14, 2017 at 23:51

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