Product category:
Process Controllers: PAC, PLC, Loop control
News Release from: The Profibus Group | Subject: MMU Basic PLC programming course
Edited by the Processingtalk Editorial
Team on 03 November 2006
Basic PLC programming course
The Automation Systems Centre at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) has launched a two-day introductory course covering the basics of PLC programming
The Automation Systems Centre at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) has launched a two-day introductory course suitable for those with little previous PLC programming experience: this covers the basics of PLC programming based on the widely adopted international standard IEC 61131-3 Starting from basic vendor-independent ladder diagram programming for a wide variety of modern programmable automation and control systems, the course introduces the basics of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and teaches the techniques of writing programmes to deal with a wide range of practical problems
This article was originally published on Processingtalk on 11 Jul 2008 at 8.00am (UK)
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With a blend of theory and practical exercises it leads students through the basic techniques of general ladder diagram programming to solve combinational logic problems and shows how to use latches, timers and counters to deal with common sequential automation problems.
Priced at just GBP495 (GBP445 for members of the Profibus Group) the course serves as an excellent lead-in for those wishing to take the MMU Certified Open PLC Engineer Course but who do not have the necessary prior programming experience to cope directly with this more demanding course.
Why is IEC61131-3 important? In the past, different manufacturers of programmable controllers each had their own specific programming language.
Although these were often quite similar, subtle differences made it difficult to migrate from the equipment of one manufacturer to another: plus it was impossible to move programmes between different systems.
The consequence was that users were locked into a particular supplier by training, experience and existing software developments.
IEC61131-3 is the modern way to programme not just PLCs, but a wide range of programmable automation and control systems.
Because the programming is now standardised, the teaching of programming can be made largely independent of the actual hardware being used.
Further, the techniques learned and programmes that are subsequently developed can be transferred between different manufacturer's systems.
People and companies wishing to book places on the course should contact the Profibus Group.
A booking form and further details can also be obtained from the website.
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