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Introduction to
Programmable Logic Controllers
(PLC's)
Industrial Control Systems
Fall 2006

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

1 of 47
The Need for PLCs
• Hardwired panels were very time consuming
to wire, debug and change.
• GM identified the following requirements for
computer controllers to replace hardwired
panels.
– Solid-state not mechanical
– Easy to modify input and output devices
– Easily programmed and maintained by plant
electricians
– Be able to function in an industrial environment

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

2 of 47
The First Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs)
• Introduced in the late 1960’s
• Developed to offer the same functionality as
the existing relay logic systems
• Programmable, reusable and reliable
–
–
–
–

Could withstand a harsh industrial environment
They had no hard drive, they had battery backup
Could start in seconds
Used Ladder Logic for programming

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

3 of 47
Programmable Logic Controller
• A programmable logic controller (PLC)
is a specialized computer used to
control machines and process.
• It uses a programmable memory to
store instructions and specific functions
that include On/Off control, timing,
counting, sequencing, arithmetic, and
data handling
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

4 of 47
Advantages of PLC Control
Systems
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Flexible
Faster response time
Less and simpler wiring
Solid-state - no moving parts
Modular design - easy to repair and expand
Handles much more complicated systems
Sophisticated instruction sets available
Allows for diagnostics “easy to troubleshoot”
Less expensive

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

5 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
Eliminates much of the hard wiring that was associated
with conventional relay control circuits.

The program takes
the place of much of
the external wiring
that would be required
for control of a process.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

6 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
Increased Reliability:
Once a program has been written and tested it can be downloaded to
other PLCs.

Since all the logic is
contained in the PLC’s
memory, there is no
chance of making a
logic wiring error.
Conversely ......

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

7 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
More Flexibility:
Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can provide system updates
for a process by simply sending out a new program.

It is easier to create
and change a program
in a PLC than to wire
and rewire a circuit.
End-users can modify
the program in the
field.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

8 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
Lower Costs:
Originally PLCs were designed to replace relay control logic. The cost
savings using PLCs have been so significant that relay control is
becoming obsolete, except for power applications.

Generally, if an application
requires more than about
6 control relays, it will
usually be less expensive
to install a PLC.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

9 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
Communications Capability:
A PLC can communicate with other controllers or computer equipment.

They can be networked to
perform such functions as:
supervisory control, data
gathering, monitoring
devices and process
parameters, and downloading
and uploading of programs.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

10 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
Faster Response Time:
PLCs operate in real-time which means that an event taking place in the
field will result in an operation or output taking place.

Machines that process
thousands of items per
second and objects that
spend only a fraction of
a second in front of a
sensor require the PLC’s
quick response capability.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

11 of 47
Advantages of a PLC Control System
Easier To Troubleshoot:
PLCs have resident diagnostic and override functions allowing users to
easily trace and correct software and hardware problems.

The control program
can be watched in
real-time as it
executes to find
and fix problems

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

12 of 47
PLC Architecture

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

13 of 47
PLC System

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

14 of 47
PLC Architecture
• An open architecture design allows the system to be
connected easily to devices and programs made by
other manufacturers.

• A closed architecture or proprietary system, is one
whose design makes it more difficult to connect devices
and programs made by other manufacturers.
NOTE: When working with PLC systems that are
proprietary in nature you must be sure that any generic
hardware or software you use is compatible with your
particular PLC.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

15 of 47
I/O Configurations
Fixed I/O
• Is typical of small PLCs
• Comes in one package, with
no separate removable units.
• The processor and I/O are
packaged together.
• Lower in cost – but
lacks flexibility.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

16 of 47
I/O Configurations
Modular I/O
Is divided by compartments
into which separate modules
can be plugged.
This feature greatly increases
your options and the unit’s
flexibility. You can choose
from all the modules available
and mix them in any way you
desire.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

17 of 47
I/O Configurations

Modular I/O

When a module slides into the rack,
it makes an electrical connection with a series of
contacts - called the backplane. The backplane
is located at the rear of the rack.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

18 of 47
Power Supply
• Supplies DC power to other
modules that plug into the rack.
• In large PLC systems, this
power supply does not
normally supply power to the
field devices.
• In small and micro PLC systems, the power supply
is also used to power field devices.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

19 of 47
Processor (CPU)
• Is the “brain” of the PLC.
• Consists of a microprocessor
for implementing the logic, and
controlling the communications
among the modules.
• Designed so the desired circuit can be
entered in relay ladder logic form.

Processor
Module

• The processor accepts input data from
various sensing devices, executes the
stored user program, and sends
appropriate output commands to
control devices.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

20 of 47
I/O Section

Consists of:
• Input modules
• Output modules.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

21 of 47
I/O Section
Input Module
• Forms the interface
by which input field
devices are connected
to the controller.
• The terms “field” and
“real world”are used to
distinguish actual external
devices that exist and must
be physically wired into the system.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

22 of 47
I/O Section
Output Module
• Forms the interface
by which output field
devices are connected
to the controller.
• PLCs employ an
optical isolator which
uses light to electrically isolate the internal
components from the
input and output
terminals.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

23 of 47
Programming Device
PC with appropriate
software

• A personal computer (PC) is the most commonly used
programming device
• The software allows users to create, edit, document,
store and troubleshoot programs
• The personal computer communicates with the PLC
processor via a serial or parallel data communications link
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

24 of 47
Programming Device

Hand-held unit
with display

• Hand-held programming devices are sometimes used to
program small PLCs
• They are compact, inexpensive, and easy to use, but
are not able to display as much logic on screen as a
computer monitor
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

25 of 47
Programming Device
Hand-held unit
with display

• Hand-held units are often used on the factory floor
for troubleshooting, modifying programs, and
transferring programs to multiple machines.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

26 of 47
PLC Mixer Process Control Problem
Mixer motor to automatically
stir the liquid in the vat
when the temperature and
pressure reach preset values
Alternate manual
pushbutton control
of the motor to be
provided
The temperature and
pressure sensor switches
close their respective contacts when conditions reach
their preset values
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

27 of 47
Process Control Relay Ladder Diagram

Motor starter coil is energized when both the pressure
and temperature switches are closed or when the manual
pushbutton is pressed
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

28 of 47
PLC Input Module Connections
• The same input field
devices are used
• These devices are
wired to the input
module according to
the manufacturer’s
labeling scheme

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

29 of 47
PLC Output Module Connections
Same output field
device is used and
wired to the output
module

Triac

Triac switches motor
ON and OFF in accordance
with the control signal from
the processor
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

30 of 47
PLC Ladder Logic Program

• The format used is similar to that of the hard-wired
relay circuit
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

31 of 47
PLC Ladder Logic Program

The symbols represent instructions
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

32 of 47
PLC Ladder Logic Program
The numbers represent addresses

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

33 of 47
PLC Ladder Logic Program

• I/O address format will differ, depending on the PLC
manufacturer. You give each input and output device
an address. This lets the PLC know where they are
physically connected
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

34 of 47
Entering And Running The PLC Program
To enter the program into the PLC, place
the processor in the PROGRAM mode and
enter the instructions one-by-one using
the programming device

To operate the program, the controller
is placed in the RUN mode, or operating
cycle

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

35 of 47
PLC Operating Cycle
During each operating cycle, the controller examines the
status of input devices, executes the user program, and
changes outputs accordingly
The completion of one cycle
of this sequence is called
a scan. The scan time, the
time required for one full
cycle, provides a measure
of the speed of response
of the PLC

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

36 of 47
PLC Operating Cycle

Each
The

can be though of as a set of normally
open contacts
can be considered to represent a coil that,
when energized, will close a set of contacts.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

37 of 47
PLC Operating Cycle

Coil O/1 is energized when contacts I/1 and I/2 are closed
or when contact I/3 is closed. Either of these conditions
provides a continuous path from left to right across the
rung that includes the coil.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

38 of 47
Modifying A PLC Program

Relay ladder diagram for
modified process.
The change requires that the manual pushbutton
control should be permitted to operate at any pressure but
not unless the specified temperature setting has been
reached.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

39 of 47
Modifying A PLC Program

Relay ladder diagram for
modified process.
If a relay system were used, it would require some
rewiring of the system, as shown, to achieve the
desired change.
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

40 of 47
Modifying A PLC Program

PLC ladder logic diagram for
modified process.

If a PLC is used, no rewiring is necessary!
The inputs and outputs are still the same.
All that is required is to change the PLC program
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

41 of 47
PLCs Versus Personal Computers
Same basic
architecture
PLC
- Operates in the industrial
environment
- Is programmed in relay
ladder logic
- Has no keyboard, CD drive,
monitor, or disk drive
- Has communications ports,
and terminals for input and
output devices
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

PC
- Capable of executing several
programs simultaneously, in
any order
- Some manufacturers have
software and interface cards
available so that a PC can do
the work of a PLC

MME 486 – Fall 2006

42 of 47
PC Based Control Systems

Advantages
- Lower initial cost
- Less proprietary hardware
and software required
- Straightforward data exchange
with other systems
- Speedy information processing
- Easy customization

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

43 of 47
PLC Size Classification
Criteria
- Number of inputs and outputs (I/O count)
- Cost
- Physical size
Nano PLC
- Smallest sized PLC
- Handles up to 16 I/O points

Micro PLC
- Handles up to 32 I/O points

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

44 of 47
PLC Size Classification

Allen-Bradley SLC-500 Family
- Handles up to 960 I/O points

Allen-Bradley PLC-5 Family
- Handles several thousand I/O
points
Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

45 of 47
PLC Instruction Set
The instruction set for a particular PLC type lists the
different types of instructions supported.

An instruction is a command that will cause a PLC
to perform a certain predetermined operation.

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

46 of 47
Typical PLC Instructions
XIC (Examine ON) . . . . . . . Examine a bit for an ON condition
XIO (Examine OFF) . . . . . . Examine a bit for an OFF condition
OTE (Output Energize) . . . . Turn ON a bit (non retentive)
OTL (Output Latch) . . . . . . Latch a bit (retentive)
OTU (Output Unlatch) . . . . Unlatch a bit (retentive)
TOF (Timer Off-Delay) . . . . . Turn an output ON or OFF after its
rung has been OFF a preset time
interval
TON (Timer On-Delay) . . . . Turn an output ON or OFF after its
rung has been ON for a preset time
interval
CTD (Count Down) . . . . . . . Use a software counter to count down
from a specified value
CTU (Count Up) . . . . . . . . . Use a software counter to count up
to a specified value

Lecture – Introduction to PLC's

MME 486 – Fall 2006

47 of 47

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Introto pl cs

  • 1. Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's) Industrial Control Systems Fall 2006 Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 1 of 47
  • 2. The Need for PLCs • Hardwired panels were very time consuming to wire, debug and change. • GM identified the following requirements for computer controllers to replace hardwired panels. – Solid-state not mechanical – Easy to modify input and output devices – Easily programmed and maintained by plant electricians – Be able to function in an industrial environment Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 2 of 47
  • 3. The First Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) • Introduced in the late 1960’s • Developed to offer the same functionality as the existing relay logic systems • Programmable, reusable and reliable – – – – Could withstand a harsh industrial environment They had no hard drive, they had battery backup Could start in seconds Used Ladder Logic for programming Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 3 of 47
  • 4. Programmable Logic Controller • A programmable logic controller (PLC) is a specialized computer used to control machines and process. • It uses a programmable memory to store instructions and specific functions that include On/Off control, timing, counting, sequencing, arithmetic, and data handling Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 4 of 47
  • 5. Advantages of PLC Control Systems • • • • • • • • • Flexible Faster response time Less and simpler wiring Solid-state - no moving parts Modular design - easy to repair and expand Handles much more complicated systems Sophisticated instruction sets available Allows for diagnostics “easy to troubleshoot” Less expensive Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 5 of 47
  • 6. Advantages of a PLC Control System Eliminates much of the hard wiring that was associated with conventional relay control circuits. The program takes the place of much of the external wiring that would be required for control of a process. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 6 of 47
  • 7. Advantages of a PLC Control System Increased Reliability: Once a program has been written and tested it can be downloaded to other PLCs. Since all the logic is contained in the PLC’s memory, there is no chance of making a logic wiring error. Conversely ...... Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 7 of 47
  • 8. Advantages of a PLC Control System More Flexibility: Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can provide system updates for a process by simply sending out a new program. It is easier to create and change a program in a PLC than to wire and rewire a circuit. End-users can modify the program in the field. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 8 of 47
  • 9. Advantages of a PLC Control System Lower Costs: Originally PLCs were designed to replace relay control logic. The cost savings using PLCs have been so significant that relay control is becoming obsolete, except for power applications. Generally, if an application requires more than about 6 control relays, it will usually be less expensive to install a PLC. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 9 of 47
  • 10. Advantages of a PLC Control System Communications Capability: A PLC can communicate with other controllers or computer equipment. They can be networked to perform such functions as: supervisory control, data gathering, monitoring devices and process parameters, and downloading and uploading of programs. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 10 of 47
  • 11. Advantages of a PLC Control System Faster Response Time: PLCs operate in real-time which means that an event taking place in the field will result in an operation or output taking place. Machines that process thousands of items per second and objects that spend only a fraction of a second in front of a sensor require the PLC’s quick response capability. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 11 of 47
  • 12. Advantages of a PLC Control System Easier To Troubleshoot: PLCs have resident diagnostic and override functions allowing users to easily trace and correct software and hardware problems. The control program can be watched in real-time as it executes to find and fix problems Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 12 of 47
  • 13. PLC Architecture Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 13 of 47
  • 14. PLC System Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 14 of 47
  • 15. PLC Architecture • An open architecture design allows the system to be connected easily to devices and programs made by other manufacturers. • A closed architecture or proprietary system, is one whose design makes it more difficult to connect devices and programs made by other manufacturers. NOTE: When working with PLC systems that are proprietary in nature you must be sure that any generic hardware or software you use is compatible with your particular PLC. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 15 of 47
  • 16. I/O Configurations Fixed I/O • Is typical of small PLCs • Comes in one package, with no separate removable units. • The processor and I/O are packaged together. • Lower in cost – but lacks flexibility. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 16 of 47
  • 17. I/O Configurations Modular I/O Is divided by compartments into which separate modules can be plugged. This feature greatly increases your options and the unit’s flexibility. You can choose from all the modules available and mix them in any way you desire. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 17 of 47
  • 18. I/O Configurations Modular I/O When a module slides into the rack, it makes an electrical connection with a series of contacts - called the backplane. The backplane is located at the rear of the rack. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 18 of 47
  • 19. Power Supply • Supplies DC power to other modules that plug into the rack. • In large PLC systems, this power supply does not normally supply power to the field devices. • In small and micro PLC systems, the power supply is also used to power field devices. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 19 of 47
  • 20. Processor (CPU) • Is the “brain” of the PLC. • Consists of a microprocessor for implementing the logic, and controlling the communications among the modules. • Designed so the desired circuit can be entered in relay ladder logic form. Processor Module • The processor accepts input data from various sensing devices, executes the stored user program, and sends appropriate output commands to control devices. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 20 of 47
  • 21. I/O Section Consists of: • Input modules • Output modules. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 21 of 47
  • 22. I/O Section Input Module • Forms the interface by which input field devices are connected to the controller. • The terms “field” and “real world”are used to distinguish actual external devices that exist and must be physically wired into the system. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 22 of 47
  • 23. I/O Section Output Module • Forms the interface by which output field devices are connected to the controller. • PLCs employ an optical isolator which uses light to electrically isolate the internal components from the input and output terminals. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 23 of 47
  • 24. Programming Device PC with appropriate software • A personal computer (PC) is the most commonly used programming device • The software allows users to create, edit, document, store and troubleshoot programs • The personal computer communicates with the PLC processor via a serial or parallel data communications link Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 24 of 47
  • 25. Programming Device Hand-held unit with display • Hand-held programming devices are sometimes used to program small PLCs • They are compact, inexpensive, and easy to use, but are not able to display as much logic on screen as a computer monitor Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 25 of 47
  • 26. Programming Device Hand-held unit with display • Hand-held units are often used on the factory floor for troubleshooting, modifying programs, and transferring programs to multiple machines. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 26 of 47
  • 27. PLC Mixer Process Control Problem Mixer motor to automatically stir the liquid in the vat when the temperature and pressure reach preset values Alternate manual pushbutton control of the motor to be provided The temperature and pressure sensor switches close their respective contacts when conditions reach their preset values Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 27 of 47
  • 28. Process Control Relay Ladder Diagram Motor starter coil is energized when both the pressure and temperature switches are closed or when the manual pushbutton is pressed Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 28 of 47
  • 29. PLC Input Module Connections • The same input field devices are used • These devices are wired to the input module according to the manufacturer’s labeling scheme Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 29 of 47
  • 30. PLC Output Module Connections Same output field device is used and wired to the output module Triac Triac switches motor ON and OFF in accordance with the control signal from the processor Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 30 of 47
  • 31. PLC Ladder Logic Program • The format used is similar to that of the hard-wired relay circuit Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 31 of 47
  • 32. PLC Ladder Logic Program The symbols represent instructions Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 32 of 47
  • 33. PLC Ladder Logic Program The numbers represent addresses Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 33 of 47
  • 34. PLC Ladder Logic Program • I/O address format will differ, depending on the PLC manufacturer. You give each input and output device an address. This lets the PLC know where they are physically connected Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 34 of 47
  • 35. Entering And Running The PLC Program To enter the program into the PLC, place the processor in the PROGRAM mode and enter the instructions one-by-one using the programming device To operate the program, the controller is placed in the RUN mode, or operating cycle Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 35 of 47
  • 36. PLC Operating Cycle During each operating cycle, the controller examines the status of input devices, executes the user program, and changes outputs accordingly The completion of one cycle of this sequence is called a scan. The scan time, the time required for one full cycle, provides a measure of the speed of response of the PLC Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 36 of 47
  • 37. PLC Operating Cycle Each The can be though of as a set of normally open contacts can be considered to represent a coil that, when energized, will close a set of contacts. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 37 of 47
  • 38. PLC Operating Cycle Coil O/1 is energized when contacts I/1 and I/2 are closed or when contact I/3 is closed. Either of these conditions provides a continuous path from left to right across the rung that includes the coil. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 38 of 47
  • 39. Modifying A PLC Program Relay ladder diagram for modified process. The change requires that the manual pushbutton control should be permitted to operate at any pressure but not unless the specified temperature setting has been reached. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 39 of 47
  • 40. Modifying A PLC Program Relay ladder diagram for modified process. If a relay system were used, it would require some rewiring of the system, as shown, to achieve the desired change. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 40 of 47
  • 41. Modifying A PLC Program PLC ladder logic diagram for modified process. If a PLC is used, no rewiring is necessary! The inputs and outputs are still the same. All that is required is to change the PLC program Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 41 of 47
  • 42. PLCs Versus Personal Computers Same basic architecture PLC - Operates in the industrial environment - Is programmed in relay ladder logic - Has no keyboard, CD drive, monitor, or disk drive - Has communications ports, and terminals for input and output devices Lecture – Introduction to PLC's PC - Capable of executing several programs simultaneously, in any order - Some manufacturers have software and interface cards available so that a PC can do the work of a PLC MME 486 – Fall 2006 42 of 47
  • 43. PC Based Control Systems Advantages - Lower initial cost - Less proprietary hardware and software required - Straightforward data exchange with other systems - Speedy information processing - Easy customization Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 43 of 47
  • 44. PLC Size Classification Criteria - Number of inputs and outputs (I/O count) - Cost - Physical size Nano PLC - Smallest sized PLC - Handles up to 16 I/O points Micro PLC - Handles up to 32 I/O points Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 44 of 47
  • 45. PLC Size Classification Allen-Bradley SLC-500 Family - Handles up to 960 I/O points Allen-Bradley PLC-5 Family - Handles several thousand I/O points Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 45 of 47
  • 46. PLC Instruction Set The instruction set for a particular PLC type lists the different types of instructions supported. An instruction is a command that will cause a PLC to perform a certain predetermined operation. Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 46 of 47
  • 47. Typical PLC Instructions XIC (Examine ON) . . . . . . . Examine a bit for an ON condition XIO (Examine OFF) . . . . . . Examine a bit for an OFF condition OTE (Output Energize) . . . . Turn ON a bit (non retentive) OTL (Output Latch) . . . . . . Latch a bit (retentive) OTU (Output Unlatch) . . . . Unlatch a bit (retentive) TOF (Timer Off-Delay) . . . . . Turn an output ON or OFF after its rung has been OFF a preset time interval TON (Timer On-Delay) . . . . Turn an output ON or OFF after its rung has been ON for a preset time interval CTD (Count Down) . . . . . . . Use a software counter to count down from a specified value CTU (Count Up) . . . . . . . . . Use a software counter to count up to a specified value Lecture – Introduction to PLC's MME 486 – Fall 2006 47 of 47