acc automation

How PLC Inputs Work – Discrete and Analog

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This post is a further follow-up from my original ‘Here’s a Quick Way to Understand PLC Inputs and Outputs.’ There are two different kinds of PLC inputs, Discrete and analog. Discrete inputs are either ‘ON’ or ‘OFF’; 1 or 0. You can think of them as a single switch. Analog inputs have a range to … Read more

How to Troubleshoot a PLC – Ladder Logic

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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

How to Implement Omron PLC Host Link Protocol

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The hostlink communication protocol is a method developed by Omron for communication to PLCs and other equipment. This ASCII-based protocol is used over RS232 or RS422/RS485. It is a many-to-one implementation, meaning you can communicate with up to 32 devices back to a master. (1: N) This communication on the industrial floor can control PLCs, Temperature … Read more

Speaking to Individual People – Be Heard

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Speaking to individual people is thought to be an easy task. Are you being heard and understood? Talking to individuals is a complex thing. Everyone is unique and has something to contribute. The way we conduct ourselves will determine how we are perceived. It boils down to our ability to modify our behavior to allow … Read more

Here is a Method for a Faster PLC Program

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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

The Secret of Using Counters – PLC Programming

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We will now look at the secret of using counters in the PLC. (Secret Using Counters) Counters are used in the majority of PLC programs. This is especially true if part of your SCADA system. Counters like the animated picture above count things. In this situation, we count the number of turns the little guy … Read more