Practical Tips and Techniques
A data logger is also known as a data recorder or data acquisition. It is a method to record data over some time and events. The recorded information can come from sensors in the field. They can be digital or analog. Digital data can be used for counts, times, events (motor overload), etc. With the … Read more
A flip-flop circuit in a PLC usually has one input and two outputs. When the input is activated, the two outputs alternately latch on/off opposite each other. It is used to toggle (latch) work on and off with just one input. In the PLC, it is a single input that will toggle an output on … Read more
I have been writing PLC programs for over 20 years. I often get asked what the best way to learn PLC programming is. Programming in the way I was taught in college was with the Motorola 6809. (Yes, I know that I am dating myself) This was microprocessor programming, but it was the best way … Read more
We will look at how to troubleshoot a plc racing condition. Two examples are explained in racing conditions in the PLC. The PLC will update only at the end of the program logic. Items set will not happen until the I/O is refreshed. How to trigger events when you want them is discussed. Your control … Read more
PLC programming involves both direct and indirect addressing. Direct address programming involves writing each ladder logic rung to do the operation required. We often forget about using powerful indirect addressing to solve our logic. Indirect Addressing – Faster PLC Program The below-animated picture will show a simple example of using indirect addressing. This will use … Read more
… and I also do PLC programming. Is Manufacturing Dead In Canada? Not so! Changing Landscape of PLC Programming Should PLC Programming Software Be Free? – Manufacturers make money off of the hardware. The dedicated software to program the hardware that they are selling should be free. If other software like SCADA (Supervisory Control And … Read more