Machines require some sort of input to function properly. Since the beginning of the industrial revolution, manpower was used to control and operate them. But in the year 1960s, a new program was devised to automate the entire process of machine operation. It revolutionized the entire manufacturing industry by bringing automation into the mix.
What is PLC Programming?
PLC stands for the programmable logic controller. It is a small computerized device used extensively for controlling manufacturing machines and processes. They are widely used and wherever you see an electrically powered device that working automatically in sync with different ongoing processes, it is PLC.
They are most commonly used to control lights, motors, pumps, and circuit breakers in factories and industries. Someone like us can also encounter its working as it is used extensively in automatic car washes, traffic signals, and elevators. PLC programming is one of the key components in CCTV and alarm monitoring.
Consideration for Choosing PLC
A well-planned PLC programming model can help its end-user to get the desired results more efficiently. One has to be careful while finalizing a PLC for machinery. The following are some of the most important considerations for choosing the right PLC:
- System Requirements
A PLC runs on a certain set of codes and for its smooth functioning, one has to be specific with tasks that your system is required to carry out. The information on system requirements will help in determining the kind of PLC your machine needs. While at it, determine whether your system has to be built from scratch or you already have it in place. These factors will help you in deciding the functionality of PLC. This information will ensure the effectiveness of your PLC programming. - Environmental Requirements
PLC is a computerized circuitry that runs in sync with all the machinery and equipment it is attached to. But, while placing the location of PLC, one needs to take consideration of its environment. By environment, we mean various issues that it needs to withstand such as dust, vibration, temperature, etc. Although they are made specially to withstand all of that, it is better to take note of it, as it can affect your entire application. The most common factor that can affect its working is temperature. So, see to it that you have a proper plan to subdue that factor. - Inputs and Outputs (I/Os)
Two major factors which are important for the PLC program is inputs it gets and outputs it delivers based on it. While choosing the right PLC, it’s important to take note of all number of inputs and outputs along with their location. As we all know, PLC has a big share in controlling various processes at once. So, it becomes important that it can handle multiple inputs and outputs. Also, these numbers will help you to determine the size of the chassis on which PLC will be placed. So, make sure that you are looking at all the inputs and outputs from different angles to come up with the actual requirement. - Speed of CPU
Handling so much of inputs and outputs is not an easy task. Thus, the processing power of the CPU should be following the volume of potential inputs/outputs as well as the types of data collection it needs. Even having a reasonable memory is important and it Is based on the number of devices you have. Also, one can negate to calculate the scan time while choosing PLC. It shows the time taken by CPU to complete one cycle of gathering inputs and running it on the PLC program. Also, the programming memory that you need for your CPU is dependent based on the type of program and instructions you are planning to use. - Type of Communication Protocols
PLC processes work on the concept of inputs/outputs and their execution. So, its smooth functioning is dependent on the communication protocols your system will use. You need to consider all the networks and devices a PLC program will communicate with. Based on this data you can decide which PLC setup to choose. One has to account for the additional communicating modules it may require for its proper functioning. Also, whether you are going to connect the entire system via Ethernet or multiple types of communications based on your system requirement. You need to consider everything. - Programming
PLC works based on the programming of inputs/outputs programmed in its circuitry. So, you need to find out the programming requirements for your whole PLC setup. Whether it requires basic programming instructions or it is a complex one and needs some special programming instructions? Also, the language used should be based on your preference, i.e., assembly language or higher language such as C or Basic. The programming characteristics of your chosen PLC will simplify the process of development and maintenance. Read our another article on "How PLC programming can help your business"
Final Thoughts:
Don’t make a decision in haste. Take the advice of experts in the field of PLC programming before executing your automation plans in Adelaide. PLC is like putting a zig-saw puzzle together. So, choosing the right program becomes crucial. The above-mentioned considerations will help you in making your final decision.
Social Profile