Course Content:

Unit 1: The role and capabilities of the PLC in an automated world, we take a close look at the hardware and the terminology

• HMI’s, Processor specifications, Communication networks, I/O cards, Remote I/O, IO Link,
• How a PLC Scan Cycle works
• Modes of Operation, Interaction between hardware, data files and code.
• PLC file management
• PLC project vrs offline project, comparison tools, verify, uploading, downloading.
• Data File Types
• BOOL vrs. INT
• Program Management
• Ethernet Setup
• IP address assignment, Sub-net Mask
• Going online with the PLC

Unit 2: Introduction to Ladder Logic

• Basic Logic Instructions, Data Tags, Ladder layout
• Practical 1 - A suite of exercises designed to enable deep learning of ladder logic basics using just push buttons and lights to create combinational logic challenges. Including AND, OR, NOT, LATCH.
• Introduction to Factory IO Scene
• Learners are presented with an automated Factory scene and associated IO Tags
• · Practical 2 - Working with two screens (one for Ladder Logic, one for Factory IO scene) learners practice using combinational logic to control the scene.

Unit 3: Timer and counter instructions

• Practical 3 - Further Factory IO programming with timers and counters

• Using Search and Cross Reference tools

• Practical 4 - Searching large projects for root cause of error messages.

Exam/Continuous Assessment details:

No summative assessment, only exercises to enhance learning

Certification /Awarding Body/Credits:

Vendor Certificate of Completion

Progression pathway:

6N5370 QQI Level 6 Programmable Logic Controllers