PLC Hardware Components, An Introduction for Beginners

Knowing about PLC hardware components is another factor we should know when discussing about PLC. Speaking about PLCs, the first thing we should do is to understand about PLCs and functions of PLCs. In automation industry, PLCs have changed the way we work and run several tasks. Everything is made easier with the use of PLCs. So what should we know about PLCs? PLC is known as a control device as it takes information from the inputs and then makes decisions to do some tasks. All the decisions are made based on outputs and inputs. In PLCs, ladder logic program is known as the most common programming method used in PLCs. Before going further, let’s learn more about PLC hardware components.

PLC Hardware Components and Functions
Speaking about PLC hardware components, we should know that a PLC consists of some components such as:
•Memory
•Central processing unit
•Power supply
•Input modules
•Output modules

Each component in a PLC has different functions just like other computerized devices. The main component which controls the whole system is known as central processing unit. Speaking about functions, here are some functions from CPU:
•It performs arithmetic and logic operations
•It will update outputs and inputs
•It communicates with other component known as memory
•It will scan the application programs
•Communicating with a programming terminal

The next component is memory which will be responsible to store information, programs and data in a PLC. ROM and RAM are the most common types of memory used in PLCs. In a PLC, the process requires both programming software and a programming terminal for the operation. Aside from memory and CPU, there are also PLC hardware components we should understand.

PLC Hardware Components for the Operation
It is important to understand the function of PLC hardware components. As we may already know, there are several things we should learn when it comes to discussing about PLCs. The other components we should know are input modules, output modules, and power supply. There are some common input devices that will be used in a PLC such as relay contacts, limit switches, proximity switches, photo sensors, and temperature sensors. A PLC can be used to control other devices such as fans, lights, alarms, relays, and motor starters. CPU, input modules, memory, output modules and power supply are some major PLC hardware components we should know first.