PLC Basics, Standard Edition is designed for those students who have basic electrical knowledge and would like to learn how to setup, program, and troubleshoot PLCs. The specific PLCs covered in this course include the Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1000 and 1100, both of which can be programmed using the free RSLogix Micro Starter Lite software.

What you will learn:

• What a PLC is
• Styles and Types of PLCs
• Numbering Systems and Data Types
• What Ladder Logic is and how it works
• How to setup Serial and Ethernet Communications
• Creating, Testing, and Troubleshooting MicroLogix Programs in RSLogix
• How to integrate Push Buttons, Pilots Lights, Motors and Photo Eyes with PLC Logic
• How to use PLCs in a Motor Control and Part Sensing applications

NOTE: Are you looking for a course that covers basic and advanced topics? If you are, check out “PLC Basics Extended Second Edition” which also includes free course updates, a second copy of all the lessons for offline viewing on mobile devices, and a copy of all The Automation Minute episodes on the same subject.

Who should take this course:

Anyone with basic electrical knowledge who would like to learn how to use, program, and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs.)

Requirements to complete optional exercises or follow along:

Students who wish to complete optional exercises, or follow along with the instructor as he programs, will need the following:

• An internet connection to download the free RSLogix programming and emulation software from Rockwell's website
• A Windows PC compatible with the above software

Note: The free RSLogix software supports these Windows versions:

• Windows XP Pro SP3 32-bit
• Windows Vista, Home or Business
• Windows 7, Home or Pro
• Windows 8, Home or Pro
• Windows 10 (Unofficially, instructor tested)

Students who wish to program a physical PLC (as opposed to using the free Emulator) will also need:

• A Windows PC with either a USB or Serial Port (Ethernet can be used with the 1100 & 1400)
• A MicroLogix Programming Cable (either USB or Serial to Mini-Din) for use with all MicroLogix models, or Ethernet cables for use with the MicroLogix 1100 & 1400 (USB, Serial, and Ethernet cables are covered in the course)
• If using the free RSLogix software, students can use either an Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1000 or 1100
• If using a licensed copy of RSLogix Micro or RSLogix 500, students can use any MicroLogix
• NOTE: The specific PLCs covered in this course are the MicroLogix 1000 and 1100
• Any Inputs (push buttons, switches, etc) or Outputs (pilot lights, relays, etc) the student would like to use with their PLC
• NOTE: While the course covers how to find I/O wiring diagrams, it does not include lessons on basic electricity or wiring I/O devices

This lesson covers the benefits of the PLCs used in this course, chief among them is free programming and emulation software.