Ing. mecatronico

A programmable logic controller (PLC) or programmable controller is a digital computer used for automation of electromechanical processes, such as control of machinery on factory assembly lines,amusement rides, or lighting fixtures. PLCs are used in many industries and machines. Unlike general-purpose computers, the PLC is designed for multiple inputs and output arrangements, extendedtemperature ranges, immunity to electrical noise, and resistance to vibration and impact. Programs to control machine operation are typically stored in battery-backed or non-volatile memory. A PLC is an exampleof a hard real time system since output results must be produced in response to input conditions within a bounded time, otherwise unintended operation will result.

Contents [hide]
1 History
2Development
2.1 Programming
3 Functionality
4 PLC Topics
4.1 Features
4.2 System scale
4.3 User interface
4.4 Communications
4.5 Programming
5 PLC compared with other control systems6 Digital and analog signals
6.1 Example
7 See also
8 References
9 External links

[edit] HistoryThe PLC was invented in response to the needs of the American automotive manufacturingindustry. Programmable logic controllers were initially adopted by the automotive industry where software revision replaced the re-wiring of hard-wired control panels when production models changed.Before the PLC, control, sequencing, and safety interlock logic for manufacturing automobiles was accomplished using hundreds or thousands of relays, cam timers, and drum sequencers and dedicatedclosed-loop controllers. The process for updating such facilities for the yearly model change-over was very time consuming and expensive, as electricians needed to individually rewire each and everyrelay.

In 1968 GM Hydramatic (the automatic transmission division of General Motors) issued a request for proposal for an electronic replacement for hard-wired relay systems. The winning proposal came...