Basic elements of plc

1. CPU
2. Inputs and Outputs (I/O)
3. Analog I/O
4. Specialty I/O
5. Programming Tools
6. HMI
7. Networking

Cpu
CPU – Central Processing Unit

PLC manufactures use proprietary computer chips in their controllers. These are the brains in
the controller to do the work we want. There has been an effort to standardize the
programming languages of the PLC. IEC 61131-3 specifies the five different languages being:

• Structured Text (ST)

• Function Block Diagram (FBD)

• Sequential Function Chart (SFC)

• Instruction List (IL)

• Ladder Diagram (LD):is very easy and simple to understand so every industrial
control engineers can be use this kind of programming language

Inputs and Outputs (I/O)

Sizing of the PLC was traditionally done by the number of inputs and outputs that the system
will control. When we talk of I/O, this is referring to discrete on/off devices. Inputs would be
items like pushbuttons, switches, sensors, etc. Outputs would be items like motors, lights,
solenoid, etc.

 How PLC Inputs Work

 How PLC Outputs Work

Analog I/O
The analog inputs and outputs on a PLC system refer to an input or output that gives us a range.
An example of an input would be the weight of a product, speed of the motor, etc. Analog
outputs would include setting the speed of the motor, controlling a proportional valve, etc.

 How PLC Inputs Work

 How PLC Outputs Work

Specialty I/O
High speed counters, position control units (2 axis or more interpolated), Basic card modules,
thermocouple / RTD input cards, etc. These are just a few samples of specialty cards that are
available for specific tasks that the PLC may have to control. Manufactures have started to
incorporate allot of these features within the standard PLC unit.

Programming Tools
Small portable dedicated devices are sometimes available to program and troubleshoot the
PLC. However the majority of the time now you will be using a computer running the software
from the manufacture to program and troubleshoot the PLC. The computer is usually a
windows based machine.

Simulators are also very common now when developing and testing your logic. You can limit the
amount of troubleshooting required before installing on the factory floor when using a
simulator. This may not be available on all software packages. Please refer to the unit you are
using.

Here is an example: AdvancedHMI to communicate Modbus TCP to the Automation Direct Do-
More Designer Software Simulator. The following is the sequence of operation

HMI

The HMI (Human Machine Interface) is a method in which the operator can control, adjust or
troubleshoot the machine. It usually involves a visual screen to display information to the
operator and/or touch screen/ keys for input back from the operator. HMI ‘s can be built into
the controller or as a separate item through networking.

Horner XL4 System Hardware

Networking
Networking is the ability to communicate to other devices in the system. This will involve the
physical and software methods. Physical will be items such as the cable, signal voltages and
configuration. Software will consist of the protocol (language) used to communicate so each
device understands the other.

Peer to Peer Communications

Modern controllers will often have the ability to communicate to each other in the system by
sharing a common memory block. Each PLC will have the ability to write to a certain section and
read the entire memory block. This works well in applications where you need to decentralize
the control system. (Smaller controllers networked together in a system.) A decentralized
system is generally more flexible and quicker.

SCADA – Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition – This term is used to describe the ability
to retrieve data from the system, make decisions, and store information.

Modern controllers will now have open protocols. This means that the information is published
on how to communicate on the network.

get off to a good start

to begin an activity successfully:

I didn't get off to a very good start this morning - I'd been at work five minutes and my
computer stopped working!

be no good also be not any/much good

B2 to be of low quality or not useful:

Shoes are no good if they let in water.

Food aid isn't much good until the fighting stops

all in good time

used to tell someone to be patient because the thing they are eager for will happen when the
time is right:

Be patient, you'll hear the result all in good time.

Thesaurus: synonyms and related words

In the future & soon

a matter/question of time idiom

ahead ahead of anon ASAP away come hereon in for sth idiom

in the fullness of time idiom

in the long run idiom

in the short run idiom

shortly someday sometime soon sooner or later idiom

space then yet

be good for sth

informal

to be able and willing to provide something:

Bette is always good for a laugh.

Dad will probably be good for a few pounds, if we ask him

jolly good

old-fashioned

used to express approval of something that someone has said or done, or to show that you
have heard or understood what someone has said:

"I've left all the papers you need on your desk." "Oh, jolly good."