ACC Automation: PLC & Industrial Control Learning
Practical Tips and Techniques
PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers) can significantly reduce the cost of manufacturing a machine. The PLC programming can be reduced as much as 50% with the use of simulators. A PLC Simulator is a piece of software that enables a programmer to test their code without the need for hardware. This means that the logic can … Read more
We will now program our Pneumatic Pusher simulator with the Click PLUS PLC. The Machine Simulator (MS) is a valuable component of the Machine Simulator Software Suite. It offers a range of built-in machines, including the pneumatic pusher machine, which effectively demonstrates various programming techniques. We will use the Click PLC programming software to showcase … Read more
Photoelectric sensors detect the presence or distance of objects in various industrial applications. They typically integrate all necessary optics and electronics into a single unit, requiring only a power source to function and provide an output based on their specifications and the object detection criteria. Photoelectric sensors, also called photo eyes, detect object presence or … Read more
PLC Simulator is a convenient tool for testing and troubleshooting ladder logic programs in the XG5000 programming software. It allows you to simulate the operation of a programmable logic controller (LS Electric PLC) without needing actual hardware. This makes it a valuable asset for beginners and experienced programmers. We will demonstrate how to effectively use … Read more
This introduction to IoT Industry 4.0 overviews the concepts and practical approach to the Industrial Internet of Things. Industry 4.0 builds on the digital revolution brought by Industry 3.0, which introduced computers like PLCs to the manufacturing floor and took us to the next level of technological advancement. The Internet of Things (IoT) protocol and … Read more
Logic circuits in a PLC ladder logic program are either on or off. The inputs change, which will affect the outputs. This can be expressed in a timing diagram. The timing diagram or chart will show you how the ladder logic program will respond to the changing states of the inputs and outputs. This visual … 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
The Machine Simulator (MS) is part of the EasyPLC software suite. It has many built-in machines that can be programmed. The chain conveyor is one of these machines. It will transfer large and small boxes on the line to different locations. The productivity series of PLCs will be used to program this virtual machine. Using … 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