I've worked with Modicon, A/B, TI, ISSC, GE, KOYO, Mitsubishi, and Keyence. Now and for about the last five years I've worked with Mitsubishi (FX1N, FX2N, A, A1S and Q series). The thing I like about the FX series is the FX2N-8AD, which is a 8 input analog unit. It can be programmed for +/-10vdc, 4-20madc, type T, J & K thermoucouples.
The TC's will give you an accuracy of 0.1 degrees and can be set foe either F or C readout. Each of the eight channels is seperatally programmed... Really neat and fast. The FX2N plc's can do 8000 steps and even at about 3500, with math and compares will still scan at about 20-25ms.
As it's been pointed out, the programming language is the spendy part. There is a MELSEC package that I've seen on eBay, but keep in mind... It's a DOS based package, not Windows.
I also like the KOYO series. They are nice little units. KOYO was the original manufacturer of the GE Series one until GE decided they could do better... Hah !!
The worst of the bunch I've worked with is the Keyence. Their logic will accept (and run) a coil right in the middle of a logic string. Makes the program hard to follow and really does some wierd stuff.
The main thing I've found for a "home" project is: Get those eight analog inputs 'cause you'll need them for temperatures, battery and PV cell voltages, mill output, etc.
FuddyDuddy
Carlton, Oregon 97111 Deep into the temperate zone, very mild here.