What are the most effective ways to learn PLC programming?

1 Choose a PLC platform

There are many PLC platforms available, each with its own hardware, software, and programming language. Some of the most common ones are Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, and Omron. Choosing a PLC platform depends on your budget, preference, and project requirements. You should research the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each platform before making a decision. You should also consider the availability of training materials, support, and community for your chosen platform.

2 Learn the basics of PLC programming

Before you dive into writing PLC programs, you should learn the basic concepts and principles of PLC programming. You should understand how PLCs work, what are the main components, how to use the programming software, and how to connect PLCs to sensors, actuators, and other devices. You should also familiarize yourself with the programming language of your PLC platform, whether it is ladder logic, structured text, function block diagram, or something else. You should learn the syntax, rules, and conventions of the language, as well as the common instructions, functions, and data types.

3 Practice with simulations and exercises

One of the best ways to learn PLC programming is to practice with simulations and exercises. Simulations are software tools that mimic the behavior and response of real PLCs and devices. They allow you to test your PLC programs without using actual hardware and risking damage or injury. Exercises are tasks or challenges that test your PLC programming skills and knowledge. They can range from simple to complex, depending on your level and goal. You can find simulations and exercises online, in books, or in courses.

4 Work on real projects

Another effective way to learn PLC programming is to work on real projects. Real projects are situations where you have to apply your PLC programming skills to solve a problem or achieve a goal in a plant engineering context. They can be your own projects or projects assigned by your employer, client, or instructor. Working on real projects can help you gain experience, confidence, and feedback on your PLC programming abilities. They can also expose you to different scenarios, challenges, and solutions that you might not encounter in simulations or exercises.