Name- Neha Nale MIS-612201051

Batch : CIVIL-C

EXPERIMENT NO: 05
Hardware and Software used in PLC
• Aim:
To study hardware and software associated with PLC
• Objectives:
1. Learn the basics and hardware components of PLC
2. Understand configuration of PLC system
3. Study various building blocks of PLC

• Evolution of PLC
When the first electronic machine control was designed, relays were to control the machine
logic. Relay logic has its own limitations.
1. Less reliability
2. The delay involved in switching of contacts
3. Less flexibility and difficult troubleshooting due to hard wired connection
• What is PLC?
A Programmable Logic Controller , PLC, or Programmable Controller is an electronic
device used for Automation of industrial processes, such as control of machinery on
factory assembly lines. A programmable controller is a digitally operating electronic
apparatus which uses a programmable memory for the internal storage of
instructions for implementing specific functions, such as logic, sequencing, timing,
counting and arithmetic, to control various machines or processes through digital or
analog input/output devices. Unlike general purpose computers, the PLC is designed
for multiple inputs and output arrangements, extended temperature ranges,
immunity to electrical noise, and resistance to vibrations and impacts.
Programs to control machine operation are typically stored in battery-backed or non
volatile memory. A PLC is an example of a real time system since output results are
produced in response to input conditions within a bounded time, otherwise
unintended operation results.
• Basic Components of PLC
1. CPU and Memory module
2. Power supply
3. Input and output module
4. Programming device
• CPU and Memory Module
This is the device where PLC program is stored and processed. The size and type of
CPU determines the programming functions available, size of the application logic
available, amount of memory supported, and processing speed.
• Power Supply
The power supply provides power for the PLC system. It provides internal DC current
to operate the processor logic circuitry and input/output assemblies. This can be
built into the PLC or an external unit. Common voltage levels required by the PLC are
24Vdc, 120Vac, 220Vac.
• Input and Output Module
Inputs carry signals from the field (process) to the controller. Various types of inputs
can be switches, pressure sensors, transmitters etc. The field devices to whom PLC
sends the results of logical operations are the output devices. These are the
actuators that adjusts or control the process, motors, lights, relays, pumps, etc.
Many types of inputs and outputs can be connected to a PLC and they can be
categorised mainly as analog and digital. Digital inputs and outputs operate on
discrete or binary change i.e. on/off, open/close. Analog inputs and outputs change
continuously with reference to time.
• Programming Device
The PLC is programmed using a special software using computer or hand Held
Terminal(HHT) that can load and change the logic inside.
• Operation of a PLC system
The operation of the PLC is determined by 3 steps.
1. Reading the field status form input devices
2. Execution or solving the logic, and
3. Updating the output devices status.
• PLC Program
PLC Program is a Logic that is executed by the CPU. This logic can be written in the form of
Ladder diagram, Instruction List, Sequential Function Charts, Structured text or Functional
block diagram. These are the languages used for writing logic as per IEC standard. The
program is then downloaded to the PLC. This is usually done by temporarily connecting the
PC or HHT to the PLC. Once the program is downloaded to the CPU, it is usually not
necessary for the PC to remain connected.
• PLC Scan
Once the program is downloaded in the CPU, the PLC is switched to "run" mode and the PLC
executes the application program. The CPU regularly reads the status of the input devices,
and sends data to the output devices as per the logical results after execution of the
program.
The process of Initialization when power is turned on, Reading inputs, Executing logic, and
modifying outputs is called as PLC Scan Cycle.
• Memory
The logic or application program is stored in memory. As the PLC executes logic, it may also
read and store values to memory. The values may be referenced by the application
program.
• PLC Input and Output Devices
Two major types of Input/Output modules are
Digital - binary devices which must be in one of the two states: on or off.
Analog - continuos devices - sense and respond to a range of values.
• Digital I/O
Common digital field input devices include pushbuttons, limit switches, photosensor etc.
Common digital output devices include relays, motor starters, and solenoid valves.
• Analog I/O
Common analog input devices are transmitters used for sensing various parameters.
Common output signals include motor speed, valve position, air pressure, etc.
I/O modules connect "real world" field devices to the controller. They convert the electrical
signals used in the field devices into electronic signals that can be used by the control
system, and translate real world values to IO table values.
• I/O Wiring
Example of Input Module Wiring Diagram
• Example of Output Wiring Diagram

• Sinking and Sourcing Operation

If the device provides current to during its on state, the device is said to be souring current.
If the device receives current in the ON or true state, then it is sinking current .
• Observations:

• Conclusion: The PLC virtual lab likely utilizes hardware emulators or simulators to mimic
real world PLCs, coupled with software for programming, monitoring, and simulating PLC
operations, providing a realistic learning environment.