Basic PLC Programming Course
A 2-day introductory course covering basic PLC programming suitable for those with little previous PLC programming experience. After attending this introductory course, you may consider to progress to be a Certified Open PLC engineer.
Want to learn modern PLC programming methods, but little previous experience?
Then this course will quickly teach you the basics of ladder diagram programming based on the widely adopted international standard IEC 61131-3. The course teaches basic vendor-independent ladder diagram programming for a wide variety of modern programmable automation and control systems.
What does the course cover?
The course introduces you to the basics of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and teaches the techniques of writing programs to deal with a wide range of practical problems. A blend of theory and practical exercises will take you through the basic techniques of general ladder diagram programming to solve combinational logic problems. The course also shows how to use latches, timers and counters to deal with common sequential automation problems.
The course also serves as a lead-in for those wishing to take the Certified Open PLC Engineer Course, but who do not have the necessary prior programming experience to cope directly with this more demanding course.
Training Schedule & Reservation Form
Why is IEC61131-3 important?
In the past, different manufacturers of programmable controllers each had their own specific programming language. Although these were often quite similar, subtle differences made it difficult to migrate from one manufacturer’s equipment and impossible to move programs between different systems. The consequence was that users were locked into a particular supplier by training, experience and existing software developments.
IEC61131-3 is the modern way to program not just PLCs, but a wide range of programmable automation and control systems. Because the programming is now standardised, the teaching of programming can be made largely independent of the actual hardware being used. Further, the techniques learned and programs that are subsequently developed can be transferred between different manufacturer’s systems.
What software platform is used in the course?
We use free-downloadable software environment, CoDeSys® (Controller Developer Systems), to develop control solutions and code. You will gain skills is using the software, for example, developing programmes, managing libraries and creating your own user functions and libraries.
Automation Systems Centre training Facility
The Automation Systems Centre at Manchester Metropolitan University has a purpose-build training facility located on Oxford Road in the City centre. The centre provides excellent teaching facilities and incorporates realistic rigs for practical exercises and programming examples.
Details
- Duration: 2 days (9:00 – 4:30).
Training Schedule & Reservation Form
This course is also available on-site. Contact us if you have a requirement for a group to be trained.
