ACC Automation: PLC & Industrial Control Learning
Practical Tips and Techniques
The most commonly asked question is, “What is a PLC?”. A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a computer used to control industrial processes and machinery. It is designed to receive input signals from various sensors, process the information, and then send output signals to handle multiple machines and processes in real time. PLCs are widely … Read more
Sequential Function Chart (SFC) is a graphical programming language that can be used in Arduino Opta PLCs. It can be used to program sequential control systems in industrial automation applications. It is a part of the IEC 61131-3 standard and is commonly used in programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and other industrial control systems. SFC allows … Read more
Structured text (ST) programming is a programming language that is part of the IEC standard and is used in the Arduino Opta PLC. This programming language allows you to write code in a structured and organized manner, making it easier to understand and maintain. With structured text programming, you can create complex and sophisticated programs … Read more
The Arduino Opta IoT PLC offers a convenient way to program it using the Arduino PLC IDE in function block diagram (FBD) format. This is a simple and intuitive method, and it is one of the industrial PLC languages. In addition to FBD, you can program the Opta PLC using any of the five official … Read more
What is a proximity switch? A proximity switch is a type of sensor that detects the presence or absence of an object without physical contact. It uses electromagnetic fields, light, or sound to sense the proximity of an object. This technology is widely used in various industries for automation and control purposes. Proximity switches are … Read more
We will now look at communication between the Productivity 2000 PLC (Modbus TCP Server) and Node-RED (Modbus TCP Client). Node-RED is a powerful, adaptable HMI/SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) development package that uses flow programming. Minimal coding is required; you can see the program flow visually. The best thing is that the software is … Read more
The XY-MD02 temperature and humidity sensor uses Modbus RTU for communication. Modbus RTU (serial) works as a master (client) to slave (server) communication protocol. To add this sensor to an existing network as another unit number, you must set it up first. We will be using the Simply Modbus Master software in demo mode to … Read more
Using Modbus RTU (RS485), we will connect the XY-MD02 Temperature and Humidity Sensor to the Click PLC. The Click will be the Client (Master), and the Sensor will be the Server (Slave). This is an ideal sensor to place in a panel to ensure that the panel is within a working temperature and humidity range. … Read more
The Productivity 2000 series of PLCs has five built-in communication ports for easy connectivity to your PC or various industrial networks. Serial protocols like Modbus RTU can be utilized with the RS232 or RS485 ports on this PLC. Modbus RTU (Serial) is an open (published) protocol that uses the Master / Slave architecture. It’s a … Read more
Every Opta IoT PLC comes with the ability to be programmed using the professional series Arduino PLC IDE. (Arduino PRO) This is designed to implement industrial machine control functions and programming, including ladder logic. The Opta hardware is also designed to support industrial voltages. This quick start guide will show you how to wire, initialize, … Read more