Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), a digital electronic device with a microprocessor, is a digital logic controller used for automatic control, which can load control instructions into memory storage and operation at any time. The programmable controller consists of internal CPU, instruction and data memory, input and output unit, power module, digital analog unit modular combination. PLC can receive (input) and send (output) many types of electrical or electronic signals, and use them to control or supervise almost all kinds of mechanical and electrical systems.
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) defines PLC in its standards as:
The programmable logic controller (PLC) is a digital arithmetic operated electronic system designed for use in industrial environments. It uses a class of programmable memory for its internal store of programs, performs user-oriented instructions such as logical operations, sequence control, timing, counting and arithmetic operations, and controls various types of machinery or production processes through digital or analog input/output. The programmable logic controller and its related external equipment are designed according to the principle of easy to be integrated with industrial control system and easy to expand its function.
In 1968, the American General Motors Company put forward the famous “Ten General bidding indicators”, which are also the characteristics of the current PLC:
· Easy programming, on-site modification of the program;
Easy maintenance, modular structure; · Higher reliability than relay control equipment; · Smaller than relay control equipment; · Data can be directly fed into the computer;
· Cost competitive with relay control equipment; · Input can be AC 115V;
· Output 115V AC, 2A above, can directly drive the solenoid valve, contactor, etc.; · In the process of expansion, only minor changes are required to the original system;
· User program memory capacity can be expanded.
In 1978, the Electrical Machinery Manufacturers Association of America (NEMA) defined programmable controller as:
A programmable controller is a digital acting electronic device that uses programmable memory to store instructions, runs functions such as logic, sequence, timing, counting and calculation, and controls various mechanical or working procedures through digital or analog input/output modules.
PLC has the characteristics of strong versatility, easy to use, wide adaptability, high reliability, strong anti-disturbance ability, simple programming and so on. The PLC consists of three main parts: input, CPU and output.