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PLC Architecture

The document summarizes the basic hardware components of a PLC architecture. It is divided into four main categories: the CPU containing the microprocessor, memory, and arithmetic/logic unit; input electronics using opto-isolators to convert signals; output electronics also using opto-isolators; and a power supply providing power to the CPU and optionally to inputs/outputs. The CPU is the brain that processes the input and output signals according to the stored PLC program.

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28 views8 pages

PLC Architecture

The document summarizes the basic hardware components of a PLC architecture. It is divided into four main categories: the CPU containing the microprocessor, memory, and arithmetic/logic unit; input electronics using opto-isolators to convert signals; output electronics also using opto-isolators; and a power supply providing power to the CPU and optionally to inputs/outputs. The CPU is the brain that processes the input and output signals according to the stored PLC program.

Uploaded by

kamilsmuda
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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PLC Architecture

The PLC is designed with some basic hardware components, that


each adds it’s own function to the PLC.
We can divide those components into four categories:

• CPU (central processing unit, the microprocessor, memory)


• Input electronics
• Output electronics
• Power Supply
PLC Architecture
The CPU

• Microprocessors are integrated circuits that run programs.


• The brain of a PLC is also a microprocessor, but less powerful
than the ones in computers.
• The microprocessor is where the PLC program processes all the
input and output signals.
PLC Architecture
RAM (random access memory)
Temporary memory in use when running the PLC program. This memory is
volatile which means that it will be erased every time the power is off.

ROM (read only memory)


Permanent memory in the PLC used to store the operating system of the PLC.
The operating system makes the PLC able to execute your PLC program.

EEPROM (electronically erasable programmable read only memory)


This is a permanent memory just like the ROM, but with one crucial difference:
it can be erased and reused. The EEPROM can be erased electronically and used
again. Normally this is where your PLC program is stored in the PLC.
PLC Architecture
• The Arithmetic & Logic Unit (ALU) performs the mathematical
and logical operations within the CPU itself.
• Data memory – this would be Registers which are temporary
memory locations where data is kept before being manipulated
and then sent on.
PLC Architecture
• The microprocessor has a lot of both inputs and outputs, but they
usually work at around 5 volts.
• Since the standard voltage level in many input devices are 24
volts, the PLC needs some input electronics to connect devices to
the inputs.
• The input electronics are an electronic circuit between the
connection terminals of the PLC and the inputs on the
microprocessor.
• The most important part of the input electronics is the opto-
isolator or the opto-coupler.
• The opto-isolator works by converting an electrical signal to light,
and then enabling another electrical signal.
PLC Architecture
• Microprocessors have the same problem with outputs as with
inputs.
• That’s why all PLC’s contain output electronics between the
microprocessor outputs and the output terminals on the PLC.
• An important part of the output electronics is the opto-isolator,
just like in the input electronics.
• The function of the opto-isolator here is also to isolate the two
electrical circuits.
• The 5 volt circuit for the microprocessor and the external circuit
for the outputs on the PLC.
PLC Architecture
• Most PLC’s need one or more power supplies for the CPU and
sometimes for the inputs and outputs.
• Since some PLC’s will require a direct current power supply, you
might need a power supply for your PLC.
• All the PLC manufacturers make power supplies for their PLC’s,
but you can use your own power supply as long as it provides the
correct voltage level.
• Some of the PLC’s have built-in power supplies.
• This means that you can connect an alternating current (AC)
power supply to your PLC.
PLC Architecture

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