IMD 3030 - Program Logic Control Concepts

Clock Hours: 188

Prerequisites: After completion of modules l = Electrician Helper Certificate

Course Description:
Programmable Logic Controllers Concepts is an introductory course to familiarize students with new terms and concepts associated with the control Logix platform, in RS Logix 5000 software, and basic principles of control logic. The student will become familiar with RS Logix 500 project organization, understanding I/O addressing, preforming an I/O configuration, a basic understanding of ladder programming and basic ladder instructions, editing, adding documentation, downloading and monitoring.

Student Learning Outcomes:
Course Competencies:

Define what a programmable logic controller (PLC) is and list its advantages over relay systems.
Identify the main parts of a PLC and describe their functions.
Outline the basic sequence of operation for a PLC.
Identify the general classifications of PLCs.

List and describe the function of the hardware components used in PLC systems.
Describe the basic circuitry and applications for discrete and analog I/O modules, and interpret typical I/O and CPU specifications.
Explain I/O addressing.
Describe the general classes and types of PLC memory devices.
List and describe the different types of PLC peripheral support devices available.

Define the decimal, binary, octal, and hexadecimal numbering systems and be able to convert from one numbering or coding system to another.
Explain the BCD, Gray, and ASCII code systems.
Define the terms bit, byte, word, least significant bit (LSB), and most significant bit (MSB) as they apply to binary memory locations.
Add, subtract, multiply, and divide binary numbers.

Describe the binary concept and the functions of gates.
Draw the logic symbol, construct a truth table, and state the Boolean equation for the AND, OR, and NOT functions.
Construct circuits from the Boolean expressions and derive Boolean equations for given logic circuits.
Convert relay ladder schematics to ladder logic programs.
Develop elementary programs based on logic gate functions.
Program instructions that perform logical operations.

Define and identify the functions of a PLC memory map.
Describe input and output image table files and types of data files.
Describe the PLC program scan sequence.
Understand how ladder diagram language, Boolean language, and function chart programming language are used to communicate information to the PLC.
Define and identify the function of internal relay instructions.
Identify the common operating modes found in PLCs.
Write and enter ladder logic programs.

Identify the functions of electromagnetic control relays, contactors, and motor starters.
Identify switches commonly found in PLC installations.
Explain the operation of sensors commonly found in PLC installations.
Explain the operation of output control devices commonly found in PLC installations.
Describe the operation of an electromagnetic latching relay and the PLC-programmed LATCH/UNLATCH instruction.
Compare sequential and combination control processes.
Convert fundamental relay ladder diagrams to PLC ladder logic programs.
Write PLC programs directly from a narrative description.

Describe the operation of pneumatic on-delay and off-delay timers.
Describe the PLC timer instruction and differentiate between a nonretentive and retentive timer.
Convert fundamental timer relay schematic diagrams to PLC ladder logic programs.
Analyze and interpret typical PLC timer ladder logic programs.
Program the control of outputs using the timer instruction control bits.

List and describe the functions of PLC counter instructions.
Describe the operating principle of a transitional, or one-shot, contact.
Analyze and interpret typical PLC counter ladder logic programs.
Apply the PLC counter function and associated circuitry to control systems.
Apply combinations of counters and timers to control systems.

State the purpose of program control instructions.
Describe the operation of the master control reset instruction and develop an elementary program illustrating its use.
Describe the operation of the jump instruction and the label instruction.
Explain the function of subroutines.
Describe the immediate input and output instructions function.
Describe the forcing capability of the PLC.
Describe the safety considerations built into PLC’s and programmed into a PLC installation.
Explain the differences between standard and safety PLCs.
Describe the function of the selectable timed interrupt and fault routine files.
Explain how the temporary end instruction can be used to troubleshoot a program.
Execute data transfer or word and file level instructions from one memory location to another.
Interpret data transfer and data compare instructions as they apply to a PLC program.
Compare the operation of discrete I/Os with that of multibit and analog types.
Understand the basic operation of PLC closed-loop control systems.

Outline and describe requirements for a PLC enclosure.
Identify and describe noise reduction techniques.
Describe proper grounding practices and preventive maintenance tasks associated with PLC systems.
List and describe specific PLC troubleshooting procedures.