FA-0349Software DevelopmentAutomation, RPA & Power Platform

PLC Dev Fundamentals

with CODESYS - 2 days

Introduction

Why this course

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) remain the backbone of industrial automation, controlling everything from conveyor systems and packaging lines to water treatment plants and manufacturing facilities.

While PLC platforms differ between vendors, the fundamental principles of automation and the IEC 61131-3 programming standard remain consistent across the industry. This course provides a practical introduction to PLC programming using the free CODESYS Development System and its built-in simulator, allowing participants to learn real-world automation concepts without requiring physical PLC hardware. Emphasis is placed on developing logical thinking, understanding industrial control sequences, and writing maintainable PLC programs through extensive hands-on exercises. T

he content reflects current industry practices and the modern CODESYS ecosystem while remaining vendor-neutral, making it an excellent starting point for anyone entering industrial automation. The course is delivered by an instructor with over 30 years of industry experience, focusing on practical, industry-demanded skills rather than purely academic concepts.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the role of PLCs in industrial automation systems.
  • Navigate the CODESYS development environment.
  • Create and organize PLC projects.
  • Develop basic Ladder Logic applications.
  • Use variables, timers, counters, and memory bits effectively.
  • Test and debug PLC programs using the integrated simulator.
  • Develop simple machine control sequences.
  • Apply basic PLC programming best practices.
Prerequisites

Prerequisites

  • Basic computer literacy
  • Familiarity with Windows operating systems
  • No prior PLC or programming experience required
Training outline

8 modules

·
01Introduction to Industrial Automation5 topics
  1. What is a PLC?
  2. PLC applications in industry
  3. PLC hardware overview
  4. PLC scan cycle
  5. Digital inputs and outputs
02Getting Started with CODESYS5 topics
  1. Installing CODESYS
  2. Creating a new project
  3. Development environment overview
  4. Device selection
  5. Using the built-in simulator
03PLC Programming Fundamentals5 topics
  1. IEC 61131-3 overview
  2. Ladder Diagram (LD) basics
  3. Contacts and coils
  4. Variables and data types
  5. Program execution flow
04Basic PLC Instructions6 topics
  1. Normally Open and Normally Closed contacts
  2. Set and Reset logic
  3. Internal memory bits
  4. Timers
  5. Counters
  6. Comparison instructions
05Building Simple PLC Programs5 topics
  1. Start/Stop motor control
  2. Seal-in circuits
  3. Alarm indication
  4. Traffic light sequence
  5. Simple machine sequencing
06Simulation and Debugging5 topics
  1. Downloading to the simulator
  2. Monitoring variables
  3. Forcing inputs
  4. Online troubleshooting
  5. Program testing techniques
07PLC Program Organization5 topics
  1. Programs
  2. Functions
  3. Function Blocks
  4. Code organization
  5. Naming conventions
08Best Practices5 topics
  1. Writing readable ladder logic
  2. Documentation and comments
  3. Common programming mistakes
  4. Troubleshooting methodology
  5. Preparing programs for real PLC deployment
Disclaimer

This training outline serves as a general framework for course delivery and is intended as a guide to the topics that may be covered. The instructor may revise, expand, reorder, or omit topics during the course to accommodate participant backgrounds, learning pace, emerging industry practices, or specific organizational requirements. Such adjustments may be made at the instructor's professional discretion without prior notice to ensure the most effective learning experience.

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