Learn PLC Programming in 7 Hours - Allen Bradley PLC Training Course

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to programming Allen Bradley PLCs, derived from a 7-hour training course. You will learn key concepts, ladder logic instructions, and practical examples to help you become proficient in PLC programming. This knowledge is essential for those working in automation and control systems.

Step 1: Understanding Automation

• Explore the concept of automation and its significance in modern industries.
• Recognize the evolution of automation technologies and their impact on productivity.
• Identify the benefits of using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) in automation systems.

Step 2: What is a PLC?

• Define a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC).
• Understand the primary functions and applications of PLCs in various industries.
• Familiarize yourself with different PLC brands, focusing on Allen Bradley.

Step 3: PLC Architecture

• Learn about the basic architecture of a PLC, which includes:
  • Input/output modules
  • Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • Power supply
• Understand how these components interact within the PLC system.

Step 4: PLC Hardware

• Identify the essential hardware components of Allen Bradley PLCs, including:
  • Control modules
  • Communication interfaces
  • Expansion modules
• Explore how to select hardware based on application requirements.

Step 5: Software for PLC Programming

• Discover the software tools used for programming Allen Bradley PLCs.
• Download the necessary PLC programming software (e.g., RSLogix, Studio 5000):
  • Visit the official Allen Bradley website or authorized distributors.
• Follow the instructions to install the software on your computer.

Step 6: Basic Ladder Logic Concepts

• Get introduced to ladder logic, the primary programming language for PLCs.
• Understand the structure of ladder diagrams, including rungs and rails.
• Learn common ladder logic instructions:
  • Contacts (Normally Open, Normally Closed)
  • Coils

Step 7: Practical Ladder Logic Examples

• Work through example problems to deepen your understanding:
  • Implement basic latching and unlatching.
  • Create interlocking logic for safety applications.
• Experiment with timers and counters in ladder logic to manage time-dependent operations.

Step 8: Advanced Ladder Logic Instructions

• Explore more complex ladder logic instructions:
  • Bit instructions for manipulating binary data.
  • Mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division:
    • Example code for MOV instruction:

      MOV Source, Destination
      

• Understand the importance of comparison instructions:
  • EQL (Equal), NEQ (Not Equal), Less than, Greater than.

Step 9: Using Timers and Counters

• Learn how to utilize timers in ladder logic to delay actions or create time-based processes.
• Implement counters to track events or quantities in your applications.

Step 10: Advanced Functions and Techniques

• Get familiar with advanced functions:
  • Scaling function for converting values.
  • Jump and label for controlling program flow.
  • Master control reset for restarting processes.
• Explore the use of subroutines for organizing complex programs.

Conclusion

By following this tutorial, you have gained a solid foundation in Allen Bradley PLC programming. Key areas covered include understanding automation, PLC architecture, software installation, and practical programming techniques using ladder logic. For further learning, consider exploring the free PLC and SCADA training courses linked in the video description. Continue practicing with real-world projects to enhance your skills!