VB Programming

Hi Guys,
New here and have a quick question regarding plc programming. I'm considering entering a training program here in louisiana for instrumentation, specfically plc programming. I would however like to bone up on some programming beforehand. Can you make any recommendations as to languages, e.g. vb, c, that I should focus on? I know there are several different plc's, do they use similar languages? Thanks in advance for your help.


Loozianaman

Loozianaman,

Yes, the PLC languages are similar...about like the differences between English and French!

None of the ones you mentioned are used mainly to program PLC's. Call the instructor and find out which PLC languages he is going to concentrate upon. Most courses attempt to be generic, but in the end must teach some specifics simply because the differences between brands are so great.

RSLogix is an important one in the US. Automation Direct Logic, Siemens Step 7, GE Fanuc, Omron, and Modicon are all brands worth knowing.

More important than a language you should learn programming concepts. Getting a process to work is one thing, programming in a manner that is readable, structured, and supportable is another.

Finally, as far as languages are concerned I recommend VB. The way things are agoing you probably won't be able to buy a toaster without VB in it. It's everywhere.

Good Luck,

(8{)} ( .)

(Yosi)