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
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
Controlling an industrial robot can be done through the use of well-crafted signal handshakes. Follow along as we dive into several robot-to-PLC communication strategies. In an automated environment, we use program instructions, oftentimes in ladder logic or structured text, to command robots and other equipment to do work. However, external devices like those robots and … Read more
This article discusses the concept of state machines and state machine programming, particularly when utilized with ladder logic. Overview Ladder logic is a common visual programming language that can execute in a PLC. Ladder logic is used to control machinery and direct processes in industrial control applications. Frequently, there is a desire to utilize ladder … Read more
What is a PLC? This article will lay out a succinct definition of a programmable logic controller and explain its basic components. The programmable logic controller, or PLC, is ubiquitous in every kind of process and manufacturing industry today. PLCs were initially designed to replace electromechanical relay systems in order to offer a simpler solution … Read more
Learn how to set up Ethernet/IP communications, including steps for both the FANUC controller and the Studio 5000 environment for a Rockwell PLC. Connecting a PLC to a FANUC robot via Ethernet/IP offers numerous benefits for industrial automation. It gives access to integrated control, allowing coordination between different manufacturing process components. The PLC can send … Read more
A brief overview of controllers through history and an analysis of factors to consider when deciding which one to use. A Historical Context PLCs were initially introduced in the 1960s and early 1970s. The goal back then was to replace relay switch cabinets and large masses of wires with a more compact and efficient solution. Later … Read more