This article discusses PLC Sequencer Logic and the steps needed to accomplish PLC sequencing. PLCs have a set of inputs from sensors on which logical, and mathematical operations can be done. The output of the PLC is used to control the operating characteristics of the machine or process to which it is connected. Industrial PLC … Read more
Learn how to connect analog inputs, either voltage or current, to the Phoenix Contact’s IIoT PLC platform and design simple data processing programs with the PLCnext Engineer IDE. Before you get started, be sure to check out our recent introduction to discrete I/O with the PLCnext platform. Analog signals from sensors allow engineers to monitor … Read more
This article introduces Gray code, a specialized binary arrangement necessary for absolute encoders to communicate with controllers. Computer processors that run virtually all modern control systems speak in a unique language. Values of on/off relate to the ‘binary’ system, usually represented as 1 and 0. This system works well for most industrial sensors, but one … Read more
For most systems, there are various languages meant for specific purposes, including Function Block, Sequential Charts, and Structured Text. By far, the most common programming language for PLCs consists of rungs of if-then logic, similar to an electrical line diagram, going by the name of ‘Ladder Logic.’ Many programmers have quite likely been exposed only … Read more
Many PLC commands are well-known to programmers, including contacts, coils, timers, and counters. But a less-common instruction is the one-shot, capable of harnessing the incredible processing speeds in a CPU. One-Shot Functions In a previous article, I wrote about how to use timers in ladder logic. A typical next step is to discuss counters, being … Read more
Sensors with timer functions advance modern automation systems, enhancing the precision and flexibility of in-process controls to ease the strict requirement for an external, clock-based logic CPU. Modern, sophisticated sensors often include integrated timing capabilities, allowing for precise coordination of actions based on input signals. These sensors offer a range of functionalities, including on delay, … Read more
In this first of an upcoming series, we investigate Siemens as a major PLC manufacturer, learning about the hardware, software, and key applications of each product lineup. Siemens AG is the largest energy and industrial manufacturing company in Europe, and with more than 170 years of history, it is also an innovator in many fields. … Read more
When setting up a system for the first time, the process can seem complex and daunting. However, there are tools available to make the job much easier before commissioning. After choosing the right automation project, then adding sensors and finally establishing a control system, the time has finally come: you’re ready to set up and … Read more
Implementing PID control in a PLC is far more complicated than textbooks would make it appear. There is more to the process than simply picking gain (k) values and calculating an output value. Control algorithms have evolved since the early days of computation. It started with simple on/off limits (like a thermostat) then moved to … Read more
Mitsubishi’s FX series PLC is one of MELSOFT GX Developer’s most popular automation solutions for small and medium-scale applications. Learn how to use GX Developer software to program the FX series PLC. The FX series PLC is one of the introductory MELSEC product lines from Mitsubishi Electric. The company is widely recognized for the manufacturing … Read more