New to PLC ladder logic programming, how to start - PLCS.net

arbj · September 19th, 2015, 11:42 AM

Hi,

I have no idea of programming PLCs, what is the best way to start, first design the program using a flow chart ?? then break down the flow chart into ladder logic symbols ??

Please advise how I can start learning, what is the best approach??

thanks
a

MrDnesco · September 19th, 2015, 12:38 PM

Write a sequence of operation, map your I/O and then start your program.

SandwichMagic · September 19th, 2015, 01:00 PM

Do you mean that you are needing to write a program for work or that you want to start learning PLCs so that you can get work in the field? Both are fine. If it is the first one, then MrDnesco's post is a great place to start. Flowcharts work well as well for understanding how your program operates. If it is a sequence that you must do, then you can write out each step of your sequence so you understand the order of everything before you start programming. Mapping your IO is also very important, and by that we mean list every single input or output your process has, wants, or needs. Then familiarize yourself with whatever set of instructions you have, and think of each rung as a goal. Think "I want this thing to turn on. I want it to turn on when ____. I want it to turn off when ____. I don't want it to on when ____. I don't wan't it to turn off when ____." That should give you a pretty okay set of instructions. Feel free to ask any questions you run into here!

If it is the second part, that you want to learn to get work, the book that PLCS.net is quite nice! also look into Hugh Jack's "Automating Manufacturing Systems with PLCs". Excellent book that is catered towards Allen Bradley instructions, but is workable for any PLC you can find.

Good luck either way!

DwSoFt · September 19th, 2015, 09:04 PM

don't forget Ron Beauford's YouTube videos.
And the logixpro exercises. both gave me a good start

September 19th, 2015, 11:42 AM	#1
arbj Member Join Date: May 2011 Location: mrt Posts: 55	New to PLC ladder logic programming, how to start Hi, I have no idea of programming PLCs, what is the best way to start, first design the program using a flow chart ?? then break down the flow chart into ladder logic symbols ?? Please advise how I can start learning, what is the best approach?? thanks a

September 19th, 2015, 01:00 PM	#3
SandwichMagic Member Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: Central California Posts: 82	Do you mean that you are needing to write a program for work or that you want to start learning PLCs so that you can get work in the field? Both are fine. If it is the first one, then MrDnesco's post is a great place to start. Flowcharts work well as well for understanding how your program operates. If it is a sequence that you must do, then you can write out each step of your sequence so you understand the order of everything before you start programming. Mapping your IO is also very important, and by that we mean list every single input or output your process has, wants, or needs. Then familiarize yourself with whatever set of instructions you have, and think of each rung as a goal. Think "I want this thing to turn on. I want it to turn on when ____. I want it to turn off when ____. I don't want it to on when ____. I don't wan't it to turn off when ____." That should give you a pretty okay set of instructions. Feel free to ask any questions you run into here! If it is the second part, that you want to learn to get work, the book that PLCS.net is quite nice! also look into Hugh Jack's "Automating Manufacturing Systems with PLCs". Excellent book that is catered towards Allen Bradley instructions, but is workable for any PLC you can find. Good luck either way! __________________ Thanks, Conor "It's the smartest people who are the first to realize that there is always more to learn" "In theory, there is no difference between theory and practice, but in practice there is a difference." - Dahnuguy If you see something wrong in my post, feel free to let me know I'm wrong, no hard feelings, I promise!

September 19th, 2015, 09:04 PM	#4
DwSoFt Lifetime Supporting Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Alberta Posts: 943	don't forget Ron Beauford's YouTube videos. And the logixpro exercises. both gave me a good start __________________ Dan Wiebe ----------------- Automation Manager Focal Automation

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September 19th, 2015, 12:38 PM	#2
MrDnesco Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Milwaukee Posts: 6	Write a sequence of operation, map your I/O and then start your program.

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