Introduction to Advanced PLCs

This module provides a general overview of the characteristics of advanced PLCs and their role in industry. The operation of deterministic systems and relational databases are described, and the advantages of using PLC languages based on the IEC-61131-3 standard are discussed. The differences between PLCs, PACs, and PCs are presented within the context of industrial automation and manufacturing. An introduction to Studio 5000 PLCs tag-based addressing is presented, and the benefits of simulation of advanced PLCs are described.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this module the student will be able to:

  • Name three characteristics of advanced PLCs
  • Describe the purpose of a relational database
  • Differentiate between scan times and ISRs
  • Explain the operation of a deterministic system
  • Describe the basic operation of a PAC
  • List the main differences between a PLC, a PAC and a PC
  • List the main differences between a PLC and a PAC
  • Name the four PLC languages in the IEC-61131-3 standard
  • Describe the principles of PLC cyber security
  • Differentiate between address-based and tag-based PLCs
  • Explain the purpose of a Safety PLC
  • List three benefits of PLC simulation
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