Basic Automation Questions
Basic Automation Questions
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3. What is a relay?
A relay is an electromagnetic switch that is operated by a small electrical current. It consists of a
coil and one or more sets of contacts. When an electrical current flows through the coil, it
generates a magnetic field that attracts a movable armature or lever. This movement, in turn,
causes a set of contacts to open or close, allowing the relay to control the electrical connection in
another circuit.
4. What are active and passive devices?
Active Devices:
Definition: Active devices are electronic components that are capable of amplifying or
controlling electrical signals. They require an external power source for their operation.
Example: Transistors, operational amplifiers (op-amps), integrated circuits (ICs), and vacuum
tubes are examples of active devices.
Passive Devices:
Definition: Passive devices are electronic components that do not require an external power
source to perform their basic function. They do not amplify or control signals actively.
Examples: Resistors, capacitors, inductors, transformers, and passive filters are examples of
passive devices.
Rheostat:
A rheostat is a variable resistor with two terminals, and it is used to control the current in a
circuit by adjusting the resistance. The most common application is to control the brightness of
lamps or the speed of motors.
Potentiometer:
A potentiometer, often referred to as a "pot," is also a variable resistor but has three terminals.
It is primarily used to measure voltage and can be used as a voltage divider.
Ohm's Law: Ohm's Law is a fundamental principle in electrical engineering that relates the
voltage (V), current ( I), and resistance ( R) in an electrical circuit. It is named after the
German physicist Georg Simon Ohm, who first formulated it. Ohm's Law is expressed by the
equation:
V=I⋅R
9.
10. What is a fuse? What is MCB?
A fuse is a protective device that consists of a metal wire or strip that melts when exposed to an
excessive current, thus breaking the circuit and interrupting the flow of current.
An MCB is an electromagnetic device that functions as a switch to open or close a circuit. It is
designed to trip and disconnect the circuit when it detects an overcurrent or a fault.
Earthing (Grounding): Earthing, also known as grounding, is a safety measure in electrical systems
that involves connecting electrical equipment and installations to the Earth or a conductive body
that serves as the Earth's substitute. This is typically done through the use of grounding electrodes,
such as metal rods or plates, buried in the ground.
Importance of Earthing:
1. Safety
2. Equipment Protection
3. Lightning Protection
Part B : Digital Electronics:
1. Write any two Gates and its Truth Table.
4. What is RTD?
RTD stands for Resistance Temperature Detector. It is a type of temperature sensor that
measures temperature by correlating the resistance of the RTD element with temperature.
RTDs are commonly used in industrial applications where accurate and stable temperature
measurements are required.
5. What is Thermocouple?
A thermocouple is a temperature sensor that consists of two different metal wires joined at one
end, forming a junction.
Part D : PLC :
1. What is PLC, Architecture, DI / DO?
PLC stands for Programmable Logic Controller. It is a specialized industrial computer used for
automation and control in various manufacturing processes and industries. PLCs are designed to
perform control functions, such as sequencing, timing, counting, and logic operations, and they
play a crucial role in automating complex processes
2. What are different programming languages use in PLC.
1. Ladder Logic (LAD)
2. Structured Text (ST)
3. Function Block Diagram (FBD)
4. Instruction List
5. Sequential Function Chart
6. Structured Control Language
3. Difference between PLC and DCS?
a) PLC:
b. Typically has a centralized architecture with a single processor or controller.
c. Designed for discrete control tasks, such as machine control and automation.
d. Can be used in stand-alone applications or small to medium-sized control
systems.
b) DCS:
a. Has a distributed architecture with multiple controllers distributed across the
plant.
b. Designed for process control applications, where the control functions are
distributed and coordinated.
c. Centralized supervisory control provides a unified view of the entire system.
4. What are different communication protocols?
1. Modbus
2. Profibus
3. Ethernet/IP
4. DeviceNet
5. CANopen
6. Profinet