PLCs

A significant trend in industry is the increased use of automation. Incredibly sophisticated systems that involve the carefully timed interaction between a wide range of equipment are possible. However, something must act as the "brains" behind the process. Manufacturers turn to programmable logic controllers (PLCs) when they need flexible yet precise electrical control over any range of processes that coordinate inputs and outputs, from traffic light signals, to packaging processes, to automotive assembly.
A PLC is a processor-driven, software-based device that uses circuit logic to process inputs and signal the correct outputs. These classes cover the basics of ladder logic, binary numbering, and basic programming principles. Students also learn about the hardware involved in PLC setups and the networking options. Later classes cover greater detail by focusing on common PLC functions and more sophisticated tasks such as data manipulation and shift registers.

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Class	Functional Area	Format	Difficulty
1 2 Classes 1 to 10 of 19
Introduction to PLCs 201 Introduction to PLCs provides an overview of programmable logic controllers used in manufacturing. This class introduces the components of PLCs and their functions, provides basic information on the ladder logic programming language used in PLCs, and also gives an overview ... Related 1.0 Class: Intro to PLCs 200	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
Hardware for PLCs 211 Hardware for PLCs provides essential information on the basic functions of a PLC's hardware components and how they work together to execute a PLC program. The hardware components of a PLC are the field devices, input module, output module, central ... Related 1.0 Class: Hardware for PLCs 210	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
Basics of Ladder Logic 221 Basics of Ladder Logic provides an overview of the basic principles, structure, and symbols of ladder logic programming. This class introduces the components of ladder logic programming language used in PLCs and the functions, ladder diagrams, logic gates, and common ... Related 1.0 Class: Basics of Ladder Logic 220	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
Numbering Systems and Codes 222 The class Numbering Systems and Codes explains the numbering systems used with PLCs, as well as the process for converting between different numbering systems. PLCs use numbering systems to process data and perform calculations. These systems include the decimal system, ... Related 1.0 Class: Numbering Systems and Codes 230	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
PLC Inputs and Outputs 231 PLC Inputs and Outputs provides an overview of the main types of input/output modules and input/output devices, their primary functions, and their roles in a PLC process. In a PLC system, the input/output modules are connected to the input/output devices ... Related 1.0 Class: PLC Inputs and Outputs 240	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
Basic Programming for PLCs 241 Basic Programming for PLCs provides an overview of the basic principles, structure, and instructions of PLC programming. Most PLC programs use instructions written in ladder logic, which is a graphical programming language. During programming, PLC programmers enter instructions and save ... Related 1.0 Class: Basic Programming 250	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
PLC Counters and Timers 251 PLC Counters and Timers provides an overview of the functions of counter and timer instructions in a PLC ladder logic program. Counter and timer instructions are internal features of a program that provide increased functionality and precision for a PLC ... Related 1.0 Class: PLC Timers and Counters 260	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
Networking for PLCs 261 The class Networking for PLCs offers a comprehensive overview on the types and functions of the industrial networks that connect programmable logic controllers. Connecting PLCs on a network allows multiple systems to communicate and share data, resulting in better and ... Related 1.0 Class: Networking for PLCs 270	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
Hand-Held Programmers of PLCs 280 This class covers the basic functions and characteristics of hand-held programmers. Includes an Interactive Lab.	Maintenance	Online	Intermediate
PLC Diagrams and Programs 300 This class will teach you how to convert line diagrams and wiring diagrams for use with PLCs.	Maintenance	Online	Advanced

Format	Functional Area	Department ID	Department	Class ID	Class Name	Description	Difficulty	Language	Related Classes
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450110	Introduction to PLCs 201	Introduction to PLCs provides an overview of programmable logic controllers used in manufacturing. This class introduces the components of PLCs and their functions, provides basic information on the ladder logic programming language used in PLCs, and also gives an overview of common internal relay instructions used in PLC programs.Manufacturers use PLCs to control automated processes and machines. As Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing are gaining widespread use, PLCs are more important than ever. Having a foundational knowledge of the basic functions of a PLC helps to increase productivity and efficiency.	Intermediate	English	(450200) Intro to PLCs 200
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450115	Hardware for PLCs 211	Hardware for PLCs provides essential information on the basic functions of a PLC's hardware components and how they work together to execute a PLC program. The hardware components of a PLC are the field devices, input module, output module, central processing unit, and the power supply. The field devices are the components that perform actions in order to control a process. PLC hardware also includes peripheral devices, such as programming devices and personal computers, which allow operators to interact with the PLC and monitor programs.After taking this class, users will be familiar with PLC hardware components, basic PLC networks, and the main steps in a PLC process. Understanding PLC hardware components and how they work together to control a machine or process is essential to working with PLCs. Many industries and automated processes rely on PLCs.	Intermediate	English	(450210) Hardware for PLCs 210
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450120	Basics of Ladder Logic 221	Basics of Ladder Logic provides an overview of the basic principles, structure, and symbols of ladder logic programming. This class introduces the components of ladder logic programming language used in PLCs and the functions, ladder diagrams, logic gates, and common input and output instructions used in PLC programs.PLC-based automation is continually growing, and ladder logic is the primary or most common language used in PLC programming. Having foundational knowledge of basic ladder logic components and functions will aid in programmer and operator efficiency and familiarity with PLC programs.	Intermediate	English	(450220) Basics of Ladder Logic 220
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450125	Numbering Systems and Codes 222	The class Numbering Systems and Codes explains the numbering systems used with PLCs, as well as the process for converting between different numbering systems. PLCs use numbering systems to process data and perform calculations. These systems include the decimal system, binary system, octal system, and hexadecimal system. PLC operators also use codes based on numbering systems, such as binary coded decimal, when entering information into an input/output module on a PLC.After taking this course, users will be familiar with the characteristics and conversion processes for numbering systems used with a PLC. This helps operators understand the internal operations of a PLC, which may simplify troubleshooting, reduce downtime, and improve productivity.	Intermediate	English	(450230) Numbering Systems and Codes 230
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450130	PLC Inputs and Outputs 231	PLC Inputs and Outputs provides an overview of the main types of input/output modules and input/output devices, their primary functions, and their roles in a PLC process. In a PLC system, the input/output modules are connected to the input/output devices that send and receive electrical signals throughout a process. Input/output modules may operate using alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC), and may be analog or discrete, depending on the type of electrical signals they process.Having a foundational knowledge of the functions and capabilities of the input/output modules in a PLC helps users understand basic PLC operation. Being aware of the different types of input/output modules and their capabilities is essential to working with PLC systems.	Intermediate	English	(450240) PLC Inputs and Outputs 240
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450140	Basic Programming for PLCs 241	Basic Programming for PLCs provides an overview of the basic principles, structure, and instructions of PLC programming. Most PLC programs use instructions written in ladder logic, which is a graphical programming language. During programming, PLC programmers enter instructions and save them to the PLC’s CPU. Most program instructions are either input or output instructions. Other common instructions include sealing and latching, one-shot, timer, counter, and sequencer instructions. Program instructions are entered with programming devices while the PLC is in program mode.PLCs are widely used throughout industry and PLC-based automation is continually growing. PLC operators and programmers must understand how PLCs work in order to function effectively and efficiently in this growing field. After taking this class, users will have a foundational knowledge of PLC programming concepts, instructions, and functions.	Intermediate	English	(450250) Basic Programming 250
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450150	PLC Counters and Timers 251	PLC Counters and Timers provides an overview of the functions of counter and timer instructions in a PLC ladder logic program. Counter and timer instructions are internal features of a program that provide increased functionality and precision for a PLC application. Counter and timer instructions are a type of output instruction that are attached to an input instruction in the program.After taking this class, users will be familiar with the different applications for counter and timer instructions and how the instructions appear in a ladder logic diagram. This class helps users to become more familiar with PLCs and PLC programming.	Intermediate	English	(450260) PLC Timers and Counters 260
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450160	Networking for PLCs 261	The class Networking for PLCs offers a comprehensive overview on the types and functions of the industrial networks that connect programmable logic controllers. Connecting PLCs on a network allows multiple systems to communicate and share data, resulting in better and more efficient process control. PLCs use an industrial network with components that can withstand a harsh manufacturing environment while still offering real-time communication. Manufacturers can set up PLC networks using a variety of different configurations and hardware components. The ideal setup depends on the PLC application and communication needs.After taking this class, users will be familiar with the basics of industrial PLC networks, the required network components, and common network configurations. A knowledge of industrial networks is essential for anyone working with an automated process.	Intermediate	English	(450270) Networking for PLCs 270
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450280	Hand-Held Programmers of PLCs 280	This class covers the basic functions and characteristics of hand-held programmers. Includes an Interactive Lab.	Intermediate	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450300	PLC Diagrams and Programs 300	This class will teach you how to convert line diagrams and wiring diagrams for use with PLCs.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450305	Overview of PLC Registers 305	This class introduces how digital signals are converted into binary data and how that data is stored into various types of registers.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450310	PLC Program Control Instructions 310	This class covers some of the most common program control instructions for PLCs. Includes an Interactive Lab.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450320	Math for PLCs 320	This class covers common mathematical functions for PLCs as well as the integer and decimal values and numeric codes involved in PLC math calculations.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450330	Sequencer Instructions for PLCs 330	This class covers sequencer instructions for PLCs.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450340	PLC Installation Practices 340	This class covers the proper steps for planning and installing a basic PLC system. Includes an Interactive Lab.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450350	PID for PLCs 350	This class covers the effects of PID control in closed-loop systems as well as methods for tuning your controller in order to achieve the desired performance.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450360	Data Manipulation 360	This class explains basic data moving functions and describes how and why these functions are used.	Advanced	English
Online	Maintenance	450	PLCs	450370	Shift Registers 370	This class explains the various register shifts than can be used in a PLC.	Advanced	English
Instructor-Led	Maintenance	450	PLCs	922107	Level 1 PLC Fundamentals	This course covers the fundamentals and principles of Industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). The focus is on how PLC's work and gives practical information on maintaining PLC systems. Students will examine the control of systems with a PLC simulator and laptops. Emphasis will be on using the PLC as a diagnostic tool for troubleshooting the processing system.		English