Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are an essential part of the modern industrial automation process. PLCs are digital computers designed to control various industrial processes such as assembly lines, manufacturing processes, and more. PLC programming requires a high level of expertise, and a variety of tools and resources are available to help programmers develop and debug PLC programs. This article will discuss some of the most popular PLC programming tools and resources available today.
Table of Contents:
PLC Programming Software
PLC Programming Tools
Online PLC Programming Resources
PLC Programming Forums
PLC Programming Training and Certification Programs
PLC Programming Software
1.PLC programming software
PLC programming software is a crucial tool in developing, testing, and debugging PLC programs. Some of the most popular PLC programming software tools available today include:
a. Siemens STEP 7: Siemens STEP 7 is a comprehensive PLC programming software suite that includes programming, simulation, testing, and diagnostic tools. It is one of the most popular PLC programming software tools used today.
b. Rockwell Automation Studio 5000: Rockwell Automation Studio 5000 is another popular PLC programming software suite that provides a wide range of programming, simulation, and testing tools.
c. CODESYS: CODESYS is a popular open-source PLC programming software tool that is compatible with a wide range of PLC hardware and provides a comprehensive set of programming and simulation tools.
PLC Programming Tools
In addition to software, PLC programmers also use a variety of hardware tools to develop and debug PLC programs. Some of the most popular PLC programming tools available today include:
a. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC): A PLC is the central component of any industrial automation system, and it is essential for developing and testing PLC programs.
b. Programmable Logic Controller Simulator: A PLC simulator is a software or hardware tool that simulates the behavior of a PLC, allowing programmers to test PLC programs without the need for actual hardware.
c. Industrial PC: An industrial PC is a specialized computer designed for use in industrial automation systems. It is commonly used as a platform for PLC programming and testing.
Online PLC Programming Resources
The internet is a rich source of information for PLC programmers. Some of the most popular online resources available today include:
a. PLCdev: PLCdev is a popular online resource that provides a wide range of information on PLC programming, including tutorials, articles, and forums.
b. PLC Tutor: PLC Tutor is another popular online resource that provides a comprehensive set of tutorials and resources for PLC programming.
c. YouTube: YouTube is a great resource for PLC programming tutorials and demonstrations. There are many videos available on YouTube that cover various aspects of PLC programming.
PLC Programming Forums
PLC programming forums are a great place to connect with other programmers, share ideas, and get help with programming issues. Some of the most popular PLC programming forums available today include:
a. PLC Talk: PLC Talk is a popular forum for PLC programmers that covers a wide range of topics related to PLC programming.
b. PLCs.net: PLCs.net is another popular forum that provides a platform for PLC programmers to connect and share information.
c. AutomationDirect: AutomationDirect is a popular industrial automation supplier that provides a forum for PLC programmers to connect and share information.
PLC Programming Training and Certification Programs
PLC programming is a highly specialized field, and training and certification programs are available to help programmers develop the skills they need to succeed. Some of the most popular PLC programming training and certification programs available today include:
a. Siemens: Siemens provides a comprehensive set of training and certification programs for PLC programming.
b. Rockwell Automation: Rockwell Automation offers a wide range of training and certification programs for PLC programming.
c. International Society of Automation (ISA
PLC Programming Books
In addition to online resources and training programs, there are many books available that cover various aspects of PLC programming. Some popular books include:
a. "Programmable Logic Controllers" by Frank D. Petruzella: This book provides a comprehensive introduction to PLC programming and covers a wide range of topics.
b. "PLC Programming using RSLogix 500: Basic Concepts of Ladder Logic Programming" by Gary D. Anderson: This book provides a practical introduction to ladder logic programming using the RSLogix 500 software.
c. "Programming Industrial Control Systems Using IEC 1131-3" by R.W. Lewis: This book provides a detailed introduction to IEC 1131-3 programming and covers various programming languages.
PLC Programming Libraries and Modules
PLC programming libraries and modules provide pre-built programming code that can be integrated into PLC programs. Some popular libraries and modules include:
a. OpenPLC: OpenPLC is an open-source PLC programming library that provides a wide range of programming functions and modules.
b. Codesys Libraries: Codesys provides a wide range of programming libraries and modules for various programming languages.
c. TwinCAT Libraries: TwinCAT provides a comprehensive set of libraries and modules for PLC programming.
Conclusion:
PLC programming is an essential part of modern industrial automation, and there are many tools and resources available to help programmers develop, test, and debug PLC programs. PLC programming software, hardware tools, online resources, training programs, books, libraries, and modules all play a critical role in the PLC programming process. As technology advances, new tools and resources will continue to emerge, making PLC programming even more accessible and efficient.