programmable logic controller (PLC)

What is a PLC?

• A PLC is a special computer device used for industrial control systems.
• They are used in many industries such as oil refineries, manufacturing lines, conveyor systems, etc.
• An advantage of the PLC is that it's modular. You can mix and match the types of Input and Output devices to best suit your application.

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How plc(s) work

• A PLC is a specialized computer to control machines and processes, it therefore shares typical terms with PC's like central processing unit, memory, software and communication.

How plc(s) work(cONT.)

• PLCs come in many shapes and sizes. They can be so small as to fit in your shirt pocket while more involved controls systems require large PLC racks. Smaller PLCs (a.k.a. “bricks”) are typically designed with fixed I/O points.

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wHY PLC(S) are IMPORTANT today

• Today's PLCs offer faster scan times, space efficient high-density input/output systems, and special interfaces to allow non-traditional devices to be attached directly to the PLC.

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How did the plc originate?

• In 1968, Dick Morley participated in the creation of the first modicon PLC for General Motors
• Morley's account says the concept of PLC was born on New Year's Day, in 1968. In the 70's folklore had it that it was conceived on the back of a napkin at some greasy spoon in Michigan.

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PLC site sources

• What Is A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)? (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2015.http://www.amci.com/tutorials/tutorials-what-is-programmable-logic-controll...
• Control Design. (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2015.http://www.controldesign.com/articles/2012/pollard-plc-genesis/

PLC site sources

• AutomationDirect Technical Support - What is a PLC? (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2015. http://support.automationdirect.com/docs/whatisaplc.html
• PLC Basics. (n.d.). Retrieved September 21, 2015. http://www.plcdev.com/book/export/html/9