PLC/Training Labs
This will have a comprehensive set of labs to learn how to write ladder logic programs using the Free Automation Direct Do-More PLC software (Link to software), which has a built in PLC simulator.
Warning
[edit | edit source]SEE Wikipedia: Electric shock AND UNDERSTAND THE RISKS. This warning is from the Electrical Circuit Analysis page and is especially applicable here, while building a PLC.
If you decide to put together a trainer board, please read this warning. As little as 10 mA AC current can cause temporary paralysis and an inability to let go or withdraw from the current source. If the current bypasses the skin, as little as 10 uA may cause heart failure. Direct current is much less dangerous, unless voltages are high or there is direct connection bypassing the skin. Wet skin has lower resistance, never approach AC-mains-connected electrical equipment or wiring with wet skin or bare feet. Pay special attention to proper grounding of AC power plugs and of anything which may be, deliberately or accidentally, connected to a hot (energized) wire. With good grounding, an accidental short circuit is likely to blow a fuse or circuit breaker, instead of maintaining a shock hazard. Low-voltage circuits, up to 12 VAC or DC may be handled quite safely, as long as the skin is not bypassed (such as with wide contact -- such as grasping non-insulated pliers -- or wet skin, or a metal ring). Working with higher voltages requires serious caution.
Trainer Board Purchasing List:
[edit | edit source]For those that want to build a small trainer board that they can physically interact with attached is a list of parts that can be used with the labs written below. This is not a comprehensive list, and some mounting hardware may be required.
| Product name | Product Description | Product Code |
|---|---|---|
| If not specifically indicated, the product is from https://www.automationdirect.com/ | ||
| Productivity1000 AC/DC power supply | Power supply for the modules | P1-01AC |
| Productivity1000 CPU | The 'core' of the PLC trainer. Handles all the logic instructions | P1-540 |
| Productivity1000 discrete input module | The input module handles all push buttons, selector switches and other input items | P1-08NA |
| Productivity1000 discrete output module | The output module handles outputting signals to whatever outputs the PLC needs to interact with | P1-08TA |
| ZIPLink feedthrough module (2x needed) | The ZIPLink feedthrough module makes it easier to connect I/O items to the PLC. (If this is not used, terminal blocks will need to sourced for the I/O modules | ZL-RTB20 |
| ZIPLink PLC I/O cable (2x needed) | This connects an I/O module to a Ziplink module | ZL-P1-CBL10 |
| USB A to microB-USB Programming Cable | This is used to connect from your computer to the PLC | USB-CBL-AMICB15 |
| AutomationDirect standard memory card | This SD card is not needed, but is useful if you want to mess around with logging | MICSD-16G |
| DINnector DIN rail, slotted | The PLC modules will be mounted onto the DIN rail | DN-R35S1 |
| Red Push Button | This is a normally closed switch (used as a stand-in for an E-stop or a stop button) | GCX1211-120L |
| Green Push Button (2x) | This a normally open switch (Used as a standard input push button for various different items) | GCX1202-120L |
| Red Selector Switch | A normally open selector switch with a red LED indicator light | GCX3251-120L |
| Green Selector Switch | A normally open selector switch with a green LED indicator light | GCX1252-120L |
| Push Button Enclosure | A 5 hole push button enclosure to hold the selector switches and push bittons | SA111 |
| Industrial Signal Light 120v | The Industrial Signal Light is a standard sort of light used in the auto industry. It can be used to indicate various states, or used as a stand-in for other outputs during testing | Look on Amazon or other industrial sites for industrial signal light 120v. |
| White wire | This will be used for the line side (Or Negative side) for returning voltage back to the power sorce | AWM26WH10 |
| Black Wire | This will be used for the load side (Or positive side) for supplying the power to the Input or output items | AWM26BK10 |