Directions for PLC beginners to strive towards
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1. When learning PLC, the first step is to choose which manufacturer’s PLC to learn. Japanese-made PLCs feature a high degree of software integration and are simple to use. In the past, OMRON and Mitsubishi PLCs were widely used; nowadays, Siemens and Rockwell PLCs are more common due to trade and international cooperation. Once you understand the trends in the market and technology, you should focus on learning one specific type of PLC. (Although mastering one brand thoroughly makes it easier to pick up others quickly, human energy is limited; it is essential to focus that limited energy on the area with the widest application, the greatest potential, and the most room for development, so as to reach a higher level within an industry.) 2. PLC is not a single programming technique; it is a systematic professional course. A PLC can be broadly considered as a highly reliable PC with an embedded operating system. First, one needs to have a thorough understanding of the ladder diagram and instruction list languages, which are the programming languages used in PLCs themselves. Reaching this level allows you to understand pre-written programs and design programs for various engineering needs. In this industry, VB and VC++ are also needed to implement serial communication as well as distributed control systems. Knowledge of databases is also required in some large-scale programs. (PLC is easy to get started with, but one needs to keep striving and working hard. ) 3. PLC is a discipline that focuses on practical applications. So, more practice is needed. Don’t look down on small projects; you can learn the logical thinking methods of design processes from them. Keep making progress in the summary.
I completely agree. I suggest learning from Siemens; hehe. There are several reasons for this: 1. Siemens is a well-known brand, and using its products gives projects a higher quality appearance; 2. There is plenty of information available for Siemens, making it easier to learn; 3. Many people know how to work with Siemens products, so it’s easier to get assistance. By the way, if you decide to learn, go for models 300 and 400.
Personally, I think Rockwell’s ones are also very good
There’s a question: I see that in many Siemens projects using S7 300 or 400 systems, those simple backplane connectors are still being used. Why aren’t hot-swappable connectors employed instead? Although the cost is a bit high, it’s still worth it. Today I went to the factory to take a look at the newly installed 100-ton steelmaking converter; it uses Schneider’s PLCs, and they all feature hot-swappable backplanes – what a convenience. Schneider’s modules have a more complicated design; haha, they’re not like Siemens’ modules, which look like pieces of black charcoal.
SIEMENS modules can also be used with hot-swappable backplanes; the use of those simple connectors is probably due to cost considerations. It still feels like SIEMENS is more user-friendly. Schneider is not very *used to it.