PLC Programming

This course unit has a strong practical orientation. The methodology used does not distinguish between the two types of classes taught (theoretical-practical and laboratory). The concepts are first transmitted to the students and then tested using, wherever possible, didactic models controlled by PLCs and software.
Continuous assessment evaluation is used in this course unit and involves four practical exams (25% each), to be held during laboratory classes. Wherever possible they should be made individually and their discussion is also taken into account. The approval for the course unit depends of the following attendance criterion: students can only miss a maximum of two laboratory classes.

Give students knowledge of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and their programming through specific software. Knowledge acquired in this course unit will allow the students to design programs, resorting to the set software and PLC, to command and control, pneumatic, hydraulic or other systems.

Programmable Logic Controllers: Introduction. PLC structure. Design and operation of a PLC.
PLC programming: Introduction. Ladder language. Simple and structured PLC programming. Functions and instructions of a PLC. Analogic and binary operations.
Communication interface PC-PLC. Hardware configuration. Visualisation and simulation of practical functions and instructions of a PLC. Relation between electro-sequential circuits, physical systems and PLCs.

NAO