Phone: 337-475-5874
Fax: 337-475-5286
Box 91735
Lake Charles, LA 70609
engineering@mcneese.edu http://mcneese.edu/ceet/engtech

Instrumentation - INST 304

Programmable Logic Controllers

  • Introduction to PLC hardware and software including:  the advantages of PLCs, the parts of PLCs, the types of PLCs, input and output module connections, sinking/sourcing modules, and addressing of inputs & outputs.
  • Review of binary, octal, and hexadecimal numbering systems, especially as seen in PLC systems.
  • Beginning PLC programming topics including:  addressing of basic PLC bit instructions, addressing of bit files, timers, and counters, logic gates/functions, logical functions and ladder logic, program scan, and basic PLC instructions.
  • Lab exercises include the use a PC-based PLC simulator (LogixPro) to write and test PLC programs that involve basic Boolean logic, the sealing of outputs, and latching outputs.
  • Introduction to switches, sensors, motor starters, and relays.  Study of seal-in circuits, latching relays and latch instructions in PLC systems, as well as converting between Boolean, written descriptions and ladder logic. 
  • Lab exercises using LogixPro to write and test PLC programs that include the use of Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC) switches, Start/Stop programs, and converting between relay circuits and PLC programs.  More complex programs involve simulation of door controls and a mechanical/electrical silo system.
  • The study of more advanced PLC programming topics including:  timer instructions, timer addressing, timer bits, traffic light control with timers, counter instructions, counter addressing, counter bits and words, comparison instructions, CTU/CTD systems, and 24-hour clock systems using cascading counters. 
  • Lab exercises using LogixPro to write and test PLC programs that involve timers and traffic control and counters with a batch process system.
  • A study of PLC programming topics including program control instructions (MCRs and JMPs) and temperature control in a PLC system using thermocouple modules. 
  • Lab exercises using the RSLogix software and the SLC500 PLCs include an introduction to programming and downloading PLC programs using RSLogix, temperature measurement with the PLCs, forcing, and PLC faults.

Prepared by: Brent Garner