New to PLC ladder logic programming, how to start

arbj

Member
Join Date
May 2011
Location
mrt
Posts
61
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
 
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!
 
don't forget Ron Beauford's YouTube videos.
And the logixpro exercises. both gave me a good start
 

Similar Topics

Hey guys, I am trying to pull the ladder logic out of some ancient Honeywell S9000 PLCs, but I can't find the software anywhere (google search...
Replies
10
Views
4,833
I need to know how to take a schematic like this and solve it for let’s say a run time of 5 seconds By solve I mean determine which rungs are...
Replies
33
Views
8,977
Thanks ahead for any insight or assistance... I am a machine designer of 25+ Years in a relatively new "one man band" position, I've never had...
Replies
130
Views
156,248
Disclaimer, I do not know much about PLC’s, and am completely stuck on how to proceed, so any help is appreciated! I have an Allen Bradley...
Replies
15
Views
7,196
Hello Every one, This question came around in my place of work (MOAWP). It appears very simple on the surface, but I could not get right when I...
Replies
1
Views
1,885
Back
Top Bottom