PLC

Programmable logic controllers, also called

programmable controllers or
PLCs, are solid-state members of the computer
family, using integrated
circuits instead of electromechanical devices to
implement control functions.
They are capable of storing instructions, such as
sequencing, timing,
counting, arithmetic, data manipulation, and
communication, to control
industrial machines and processes.

Figure illustrates a conceptual

diagram of a PLC application

ADVANTAGES

Large quantity of inputs and outputs may be connected

Simple and easy programming language
Reliability
Online programming and editing
Online monitoring
Rugged as compare to microcomputers
Logic levels that ensure noise immunity and cable lengths
Logic low
0V 5V
Logic high
13V 24V/33V
Networking
PLCs support open environment and therefore PLCs of different
brands and manufacturers can be networked along with other field
devices

DISADVANTAGES
PLC is slower than the Microcomputer or microprocessor
techniques
High price / Expensive
Environmental consideration
Certain process environments such as high heat and
vibration interference with the electronic devices in
PLCs, limit their use as compared to relay based
systems
Fixed Circuit Operation
If the circuit in operation is never altered, a fixed control
system is better than a PLC system. The PLC system is
most effective when periodic changes in operations are
made.

Main Parts of PLC

Power Supply
CPU
Input & Output Modules

SIEMENS
SIMATIC SERIES
1. S7-200

, Micro Series (Compact)

2. S7-300

, Mini Series

3. S7-400

, Power Series

Step-7 is a software

Features of S7-200

Features of S7-300

Features of S7-400

S7-400 Modules

Programming Devices

S7-300, CPU314 IFM

IFM (Integrated Function Module)
Integrated I/Os
20 Digital I/p
16 Digital O/p
04 Analog I/p
01 Analog O/p
MPI (Multiple Point Interface)
Profibus (Process Field Bus) OR
Industrial Ethernet

Mode Selector
MRES_ Module Reset function
STOP_ Stop mode; the program is not
executed
RUN_ Program execution, read only
access possible from PG
RUN-P_ Program execution, read/write
access possible from PG

Status Indicators (LEDs)

SF_ Group error; internal CPU fault or fault in module.

BATF_ Battery fault; battery empty or non-existent.
DC5V_ internal 5 V DC voltage indicator.
FRCE_ FORCE; indicates that at least one input or
output is forced.
RUN_ Flashes when the CPU is starting up, shows a
steady light in Run mode.
STOP_ Shows a steady light in Stop mode.
Flashes slowly for a memory reset request.
Flashes quickly when a memory reset is
being carried out.

Installation Of PLC

S7-300

Combining Hardware & Software

ADDRESSING
Slot Based Addressing
Slot based address allocation is the default
addressing method on the S7, i.e. a defined
module start address is allocated to each slot
number. Thus by noting the relevant slot number
and its respective address from the table
provided.
User Defined Address Allocation
In user defined address allocation, you can
allocate any address within the available CPU
address area to any module. User oriented
address allocation on the S7-300 is only
possible with the CPU 315-2DP

Slot Based Addressing for Modules

(Default Addressing)
Rack

Module
Start
Address

Slot Number
1

10

11

0
4
8
12 16 20 24
256 272 288 304 320 336 352

28
368

Digital
Analog

1*

Digital
Analog

--

IM

32 36 40 44 48 52 56
384 400 416 432 448 464 480

60
496

2*

Digital
Analog

--

IM

64 68 72 76 80 84 88
512 528 544 560 576 592 608

92
624

3*

Digital
Analog

--

IM

96 100 104 108 112 116 120 124**

640 656 672 688 704 720 736 752**

PS CPU IM

( * ) Not with the CPU 312 IFM/313

( ** ) Not with the CPU 314 IFM