In Understanding Ladder Logic we touched on the origins of Ladder Logic, its structure and execution. So now that we have a understanding of what Ladder Logic is, we can dig a little deeper into how ladder instructions work. And to do that, we need to first understand Boolean math and logic gates. Now, this blog…
+Tech TopicsDiscrete SensingeBookLearning ResourcesMotorsOnline OnlyPLC eBookProcess Sensing & ControlProductProgrammable Control
Ladder Logic in Action
Ladder logic programming for industrial controllers has evolved significantly over the years, and now supports advanced functionality such as process control, motion control, data manipulation, networking, and data acquisition. However, when you start with a blank page to design a new control system, large or small, there are many basic functions this tried-and-true language is…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookeBookIssue 34 - 2016Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueOnline OnlyPLC eBookProductProgrammable ControlTechnology Brief
What is Ladder Logic?
PLCs have exploded in the controls market and are used throughout the world. Over time they have advanced to become more user friendly, efficient, smaller and less expensive. Different types of programming languages have also been developed for PLCs but the most frequently used is still Ladder Logic. The Origins of Ladder Logic – Relay…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 11 – 2008Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueOperator InterfacePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control
What About PC Control?
Control fads have come and control fads have gone, but through it all Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) have withstood the test of time. However, there are times when the basic ladder logic programmed PLC is not the best answer to your control solution. Enter PC-based control … PC-Based Control PC-based control (application control from a…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 7 – 2006Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control
Iboxes...The Latest Craze
In our last issue of Automation Notebook we introduced you to DirectSOFT5 (version 5.0), the latest version of programming software available for the DirectLOGIC PLCs. DirectSOFT5 received an overall facelift including selectable themes, configurable toolbars, dockable and floatable views, HTML help files, and a helpful “Tip of the Day” feature. However, the most notable improvement to the software…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 6 – 2006Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control
The Latest In PLC Ladder Logic
Developed in the early 1990s to program DirectLOGIC PLCs, DirectSOFT programming software was one of the first Windows®-based ladder logic software packages on the market. Over the years, it has seen several major enhancements and improvements, but this year DirectSOFT is receiving the most dramatic makeover of its existence. DirectSOFT5 As users became more comfortable with the features…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 3 – 2005Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control
PLC Technology and Application Tips
Although the North American market for automation and controls has seen nowhere near the growth it did 15-20 years ago, programmable logic controllers (PLCs) are still the preferred controller choice for industrial applications. What has changed for PLCs are the expectations and desired functionality of their specifiers and users. In this edition of PLC Speaking,…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookFYIIssue 2 – 2004Learning ResourcesNotebook IssueProductProgrammable Control
Implementing a PLC Calibration Routine to Ensure Accurate Instrument Readings
Why Calibrate? Many applications call for a means to take accurate analog measurements. Force, pressure, electrical current, lengths, positions and other analog values that are measured must be done so with a degree of accuracy. Factory and lab personnel use calibration procedures to ensure that equipment is reading accurately. If the readings are not as…
+Tech TopicsAutomation NotebookIssue 2 – 2004Learning ResourcesNotebook IssuePLC SpeakingProductProgrammable Control
PLC Technology and Application Tips
Over the past ten years, AutomationDirect, formerly PLCDirect, has provided PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) products in many shapes, sizes, and I/O counts, and with a wide variety of features. Since PLCs were the products on which this company was founded, it is only natural to devote a column on the subject of PLCs in the…