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address
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The unique location assigned to each I/O module so that it may be correctly referenced and signaled by the PLC program.
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binary
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A number system used for PLCs that has either 0 or 1 as a value. Using binary, a function is either on or off.
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bit
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A single numerical unit in the binary number system. Bit is short for BInary digiT.
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bit number
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The numbered location of the specific individual bit being addressed. Bit numbers are typically the last number found in an address.
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byte
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A series of eight bits.
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common
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The screw terminal on a PLC that connects to the power source.
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counter
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A set of PLC instructions that counts, calculates, or keeps a record of the number of times something happens.
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digital
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Consisting of information that is input or output electronically as a series of pulses or signals often resulting in binary strings of 0s and 1s.
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examine off
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A basic PLC logic instruction symbol. Also referred to as Examine If Open. Examine Off becomes True if an input is absent.
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examine on
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A basic PLC logic instruction symbol. Also referred to as Examine If Closed. Examine On becomes TRUE if an input is present.
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file
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A data register in a PLC that stores bits of information. Files are often referred to as registers.
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file identifier
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A letter code given to each type of data file to make it easier for the programmer to identify the files.
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file number
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The specific bit number assigned to each type of data file so that it can be easily found within the ladder logic program.
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holding register
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The PLC equivalent of traditional relays. Holding registers hold data that will later be executed by the processor.
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I/O module
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The part of a modular PLC to which input and output devices are connected.
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input group register
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A type of input register that can receive data from 16 consecutive input terminals. Grouping registers is an efficient way to control multiple inputs.
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input register
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A register that receives and stores data signaled from a hardwired input.
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nibble
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Four bits in series, or half an 8-bit byte.
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output register
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A register that stores data on the status of a hardwired output.
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read from
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The process of a PLC scanning a register and using the data found within that register in a meaningful way.
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real-time value
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The exact current value of a bit of data. PLC register data is not considered real-time because values can change between PLC scans.
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register
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A data file in a PLC that stores bits of information. Some PLCs refer to registers as files.
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remote I/O
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An input/output module that is located far away from the CPU of the PLC.
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scan
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One complete cycle of a PLC checking inputs, executing its programs, and updating the status of its outputs.
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sequential
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Doing one and only one step at a time, followed by the next step in a logical order.
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shift register
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Shifting bits forward or backward within a word to vary how the outputs respond.
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slot number
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The numbered location of the specific PLC module being addressed.
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terminal block
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A device that joins wires or cables. Terminal blocks typically snap into a metal rail or are screw-mounted on the panel of a control enclosure.
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timer
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A set of PLC instructions that automatically starts or stops machines and other devices when a preset time period has been exceeded.
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word
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A defined and specific number of digits grouped together. For most PLCs, a word consists of 16 digits.
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word number
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The numbered location of the specific data word being addressed. Word numbers are found only on advanced PLCs.
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written to
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The process of a PLC storing data within a register for later use.
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