You already know how to program a PLC and make it do what you want using Ladder Diagrams (only ten dollars on PLC Dojo). But as you are undoubtedly aware, there are several other “paradigms” (programming languages) out there to create logic, and you want to program competently with them all.
Aside from learning the paradigms, you also want to develop a comfort level with a few other development environments besides RSLogix 500. Now, you’re going to be learning the Logix5000 environment as well as AB’s Connected Components Workbench. Then we’re going to get away from AB and do a lot of work in ABB’s Automation Builder where you’ll be able to work hands-on with all five IEC paradigms PLUS an ABB proprietary language as well. As your program grows, you’ll be able to simulate it and run your code in real-time every step of the way.
What’s covered in each of the five PLC courses I teach here and on my own PLC Dojo site?
PLC Fundamentals (Level 1) teaches you how to program with the focus on ladder logic, which is the most popular PLC programming language. The goal is to teach you everything you need to know to make a PLC do what you want it to do. You are also given all the software necessary to both CREATE and RUN your own programs live – right on your own computer.
Applied Logic (Level 2) forces you to take what you’ve learned and solve problem after progressively harder problem unassisted. You get a spec and are told simply: “Make it work, and don’t progress until you have.” After, you get to watch me solve each one as well. By the end, you don’t just know how to program – you are a PROGRAMMER.
Process Visualization (Level 3) gives you both knowledge and experience in FIVE different HMI / SCADA development environments. By the end, you’ve created several COMPLETE visualization (screen) projects that you can actually run on your own computer (and SHOW PEOPLE in an interview) with no additional hardware.
IEC Paradigms (Level 4) is only for the heavyweights. This course teaches you how to program using all five IEC programming languages (plus one more) in multiple environments. There are projects as well, so by the end, you have seen it all and DONE it all as well. There won’t be anything anybody can show you that you won’t already be familiar with.
TIA Portal Master Project (Level 5) is the culmination of everything. In that course, you’ll program an entire power plant using all five PLC programming languages (in PARALLEL!) with a full HMI. It’s a massive and complex project that really showcases your talents in an interview!
