ACC Automation: PLC & Industrial Control Learning
Practical Tips and Techniques
A human-machine interface (HMI) is present in some form for every PLC. The HMI connects a user to a machine system to exchange information or control data. This interaction with the system can be through hardware or software. HMIs offer different people information and control in many ways for the automated system. Operators, supervisors, mechanics, … Read more
Developing a programmable logic controller (PLC) program can be broken down into five steps. These programming steps are as follows: Five Steps to PLC Program Development Step 1 – Define the task Step 2 – Define the Inputs and Outputs Step 3 – Develop a logical sequence of operation Step 4 – Develop the PLC … Read more
Programmable logic controllers (PLC) use a cyclic scan. The time that it takes to complete one scan is called Scan Time. Typical scan times range from 10 milliseconds to 10 microseconds. This translates from 0.01 to 0.0001 seconds per PLC scan. Understanding how the program scan will help us in programming and troubleshooting the PLC. … Read more
All programmable logic controllers (PLC) have the same numbering system at their core. This is the same with all computers as well. The status of any memory location can be either on or off. A one (1) will represent an on or “True” status and zero (0) will represent an off or “False” status. This … Read more
PLC memory is very similar to personal computer memory. There is the operating system and firmware of the processor and connected modules. PLC programs and data that are used by the program are also stored in the memory. We will now look at the basic understanding of memory in the PLC. Looking at two examples … Read more
PLC outputs are the next component of our PLC block diagram. The PLC program will control the outputs of the PLC. Controlling outputs is one way to get the inputs to change. We will be looking at digital and analog outputs that can be wired to the programmable logic controller. PLC troubleshooting outputs will also … Read more
PLC inputs are one component of our PLC block diagram. The output actions of the PLC will be controlled based on the inputs. We will be looking at digital and analog inputs that can be wired to the programmable logic controller. We will be looking at wiring of a normally open (NO) push button, normally … Read more
We will connect the Productivity Mini PLC P1-M622-16DR to our computer running the Productivity Suite Software. An Ethernet (RJ45) communication link will be made to our programmable logic controller. The P1-M622 series packs six communication ports into a standalone package smaller than your hand. That’s USB-C programming, dual Ethernet ports, RS-232, RS-485, and a microSD … Read more
Here’s something that still catches people off guard: the Productivity Suite programming software is completely free. No demo limitations, no 30-day trials, no annual subscriptions eating into your budget year after year. AutomationDirect gives you the full package—every feature, every instruction, every tool—at zero cost. In an industry where software licensing fees can rival hardware … Read more
Did you know that the average industrial control panel has shrunk by nearly 40% over the past two decades, yet the demand for functionality has tripled? That stat alone tells you everything about where automation is headed. The days of massive control cabinets taking up half your floor space are fading fast. Enter the Productivity1000 … Read more