Part computer and part workhorse, a programmable logic controller, or PLC, is a digital computer built to withstand the daily grind in an industrial facility.
Typically established within in an industrial system for the automation of electromechanical processes, you’ll most often see a PLC used to control factory machinery, light fixtures, rides at amusement parks, and much more.
Virtually any kind of automated process, including production lines and machine functions, can be made more efficient with the use of a PLC control system. A major plus of the system — one that goes far beyond the execution of automated tasks — is the PLC’s ability to change, or improve upon,operating processes.
Essentially a means of improving upon the tried-and-true hardware components of yesteryear, the programmable logic controller gives the user more control by replacing components such as relays, timers and counters with solid-state components driven by programmed instructions.
Though the programming of PLCs continues to develop, its basic concept is linked to a ladder program that outlines sets of instructions that explain the logic followed by the PLC.
In programming terms, ladder logic, or programming, is a language that utilizes the circuit diagrams of relay-logic hardware to represent a program. Instructing the PLC to perform desired actions consists of developing, entering and downloading the program to the PLC.
A programmable logic controller is unlike a computer in that it’s typically only programmed once, or reprogrammed as needed, and left to run in their own. Based upon a somewhat simple but highly effective structure, PLC programs turn output on and off in accordance with input parameters defined by the program.
As PLCs are highly programmable, the programmer has a great deal of leeway in determining ideal input conditions. A person adept at programming a PLC could even use the controller for home use. For instance, porch lights could be programmed to turn on or off at specified times, or under specific conditions.
PLC: Built to Last in Industrial Settings
Highly variable and adjustable to a range of working conditions, a programmable logic controller is adept at computing multiple analog and digital output and input configurations. With this kind of adaptability, a PLC control can be added to a machine shop or manufacturing facility with older machinery, newer machinery, or a mixture of the two.
Ever the workhorse — without the need for food and sleep — the PLC can easily be exposed to a wide range of temperatures, which makes it ideal an ideal addition to any automation systems in both cold-storage units and overheated machine shops.
A programmable logic controller is also highly resistant to vibration and impact, which is a necessity for any industrial setting.
As industrial computers, the input and output signals for PLCs are usually 120 volts, a match to the electromechanical control relays that they are specifically built to replace.
