PLC

Getting Started with PLC Hardware and Software

Articles for learning about programmable logic controllers (PLC), with links

1. PLC Programming – learning

PLC programming uses software to design and implement control systems. It controls sensors, machinery, and industrial processes. Learn ladder logic, which employs pictorial symbols to represent electrical circuits, to programme PLCs. One must also understand inputs, outputs, timers, counters, and logical operations. Hands-on PLC hardware, simulation software, and troubleshooting experience is essential. Tutorials, online courses, and practise projects can improve proficiency. PLC programmers must practice, explore, and learn.

The following articles, which are linked in the descriptions, are associated with PLC programming and will help you learn more about it.

  1. Basics of Ladder Logic; PLC simulator tutorial
  2. PLC program for a batch process
  3. How to write a PLC ladder logic program?
  4. Continuous bottle filling system using PLC Program
  5. 3 Commonly used Programming languages for PLC
  6. What is Sequential Function Chart?
  7. Simple motor operation using PLC
  8. What is Sinking and Sourcing?
  9. PLC programming languages; Basic ladder logic
  10. What are the types of programming languages used in PLC?
  11. Top 6 free PLC Programming software
  12. Ladder logic example for beginners; Over head water tank automatic level control
  13. Top 22 PLC programming software available in market?
  14. PLC Ladder logic example for beginners: Four-Way traffic light control using Siemens PLC
  15. How various logic gates are used to do the ladder logic?
  16. Equivalent Logic gates used in PLC Ladder Diagram
  17. How to use Siemens TIA Portal to create PLC Ladder Logic for three phase motor Forward and Reverse

2. PLC Basics – learning

PLC basics involve understanding PLC concepts. Understand the CPU, input/output modules, and power supply of a PLC system. Ladder logic programming with relay-type logic symbols is crucial. Understand inputs, outputs, timers, counters, and fundamental logical operations. Wiring and troubleshooting PLCs are also helpful. Tutorials and practise help master PLC basics.

The following articles, which are linked in the descriptions, are associated with PLC programming and will help you learn more about it.

  1. Low Cost PLC’s for beginners
  2. Advantages of PLC
  3. What is PLC scan and its working
  4. Difference between PLC & PC
  5. What are the different operating modes in PLC?
  6. PLC communications
  7. What is a programmable automation controller?
  8. List of free online PLC simulators and How to use an Online PLC simulator?
  9. Leading PLC manufacturers
  10. Siemens PLC System Overview
  11. What is Hot standby in PLC?
  12. What are the types of PLC?
  13. What is the difference between PLC and PID controller?

3. PLC Instruction – learning

The building blocks of a PLC programme are PLC instructions, which are used to run industrial processes. To learn PLC instructions, you need to know about the different kinds, like input, output, timer, counter, math, comparison, and branching. Each command has a specific job to do, like reading input signals, controlling outputs, changing data, or directing the flow of the programme. To make effective and efficient PLC programmes, you need to know how to write and use these directions, as well as their parameters and addresses. PLC instruction programming skills can be improved with practise, testing, and the help of reference materials.

The following articles, which are linked in the descriptions, are associated with PLC Instruction and will help you learn more about it.

  1. PLC Ladder logic – Timers
  2. PLC Counter instructions | Example for counter logics
  3. An introduction to PLC timers
  4. COUNTERS in PLC Programming
  5. PLC programming; Latching relays
  6. Comparison instructions of PLC
  7. Data Handling Instructions for PLC
  8. Math Instructions for PLC
  9. Relay Instructions for Allen Bradley; PLC Ladder Diagram
  10. Latching in PLC
  11. What is Latch? How does a Latching work in PLC program?
  12. PLC TIMERS & COUNTERS
  13. One shot raising and one shot falling instructions in PLC
  14. PLC Counter Instruction

4. PLC Hardware – learning

PLC hardware refers to the components that make up a Programmable Logic Controller device that you can see and touch. To learn about PLC hardware, you need to know about its key parts, such as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), input modules, output modules, power supply, and communication modules. It also means getting to know the different types of I/O (Input/Output) devices that can be linked to the PLC, such as sensors, switches, actuators, and communication interfaces. Learning how to wire, install, and configure up PLC gear is important for making industrial control systems work.

The following articles, which are linked in the descriptions, are associated with PLC hardware and will help you learn more about it.

  1. How to wire a PLC to a control panel ?
  2. Introduction to PLC hardware part 1
  3. Introduction to PLC hardware- part 2
  4. Guidelines for PLC wiring
  5. PLC controller Input/output Interface
  6. Allen Bradley PLC, components, instructions
  7. Difference between Modular PLC & Compact PLC
  8. What are the components of a PLC?
  9. How to install a PLC and how to do the PLC wiring?
  10. What are the major PLC hardware components?
  11. What is Interposing Relay? & How it is used in PLC?
  12. Checklist to Carry out PLC Preventive Maintenance Activity

5. PLC Learning series

PLCs are essential to industrial automation and control systems. This post will teach you PLC basics, whether you’re an engineer, technician, or simply interested in learning about PLCs.

  1. PLC learning Series 1: What is PLC? Functions of PLC
  2. PLC learning series 2: PLC programming languages
  3. PLC learning series 3: PLC Architecture and wiring of PLC
  4. PLC learning series 4 : How a ladder logic diagram works? How to read ladder logic ? 
  5. PLC learning series 5: 8 Rules for ladder diagram programming
  6. PLC learning series 6: PLC process Scan basics
  7. PLC learning series 7: Functional Block Diagram program, symbols
  8. PLC learning series 8: Instruction List programming
  9. PLC learning series 9: PLC selection criteria
  10. PLC learning Series 10: PLC timers
  11. PLC learning series 11: How to interface PLC with SCADA? 
  12. PLC learning series 12: Troubleshooting PLC
  13. PLC learning Series 13: Counters in PLC
  14. PLC learning series 14: Ladder logic Instructions
  15. PLC Learning series 15: Applications – Level measurement
  16. PLC learning series 16: PLC Documentation

6. PLC brands – learning

There are a number of well-known companies in the area of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that make PLC systems that work well and are used by many people. Siemens, Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation), Mitsubishi Electric, Schneider Electric, ABB, Omron, Delta Electronics, and others are all well-known PLC names. Each brand has different PLC models with different features, functions, and programming tools. When you learn about different PLC brands, you need to know about their products, programming languages, hardware compatibility, and support tools. This can help you choose the right PLC brand for different industrial applications.

The following articles, which are linked in the descriptions, are associated with PLC brands and will help you learn more about it.

  1. Top 15 PLC brands

7. PLC Simulators – learning

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) models are software tools which mimic the way a real PLC system works. To learn about PLC simulators, you need to know what they are for and how they can help you. For example, they can provide a virtual setting for programming and testing PLCs without the need for real hardware. Most simulators have functions like programming in ladder logic, simulating I/O signals, and monitoring in real time. They let people learn how to code, test their ideas, and fix faults in programmes in a safe and inexpensive way. PLC programming can be easier to learn if you know about the different kinds of PLC simulator tools and how they work.

The following articles, which are linked in the descriptions, are associated with PLC simulators and will help you learn more about it.

  1. 7-Best PLC simulator apps for android and their features

Sundareswaran Iyalunaidu

With over 24 years of dedicated experience, I am a seasoned professional specializing in the commissioning, maintenance, and installation of Electrical, Instrumentation and Control systems. My expertise extends across a spectrum of industries, including Power stations, Oil and Gas, Aluminium, Utilities, Steel and Continuous process industries. Tweet me @sundareshinfohe

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