Programmable Controllers: Hardware, Software and Applications

Programmable controllers are used in virtually all automated industries. No electronics, computer or process engineer can succeed without a good working knowledge of programmable controllers and their applications. This guide provides an introduction to programmable controllers: what they are; how they work; and how to select, set up and use them on the job. The work starts with a brief history of programmable controllers, moving on to the fundamental concepts of logic circuitry and computer arithmetic and coding. Then readers learn how to: evaluate hardware configurations; determine software requirements; choose a programming language; compare and select process-control schemes; read pc technical specification sheets; control central-processing units, peripheral devices and input/output interfaces; and fit programmable controllers into local-area and wide-area networks. Readers can also learn where to purchase programmable controllers and where to turn for more information. By using this guide, engineers should be able to maximize productivity at the lowest possible cost by selecting the programmable controller that best fits their needs.