Programmable Logic Controllers
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are industrial digital computers designed for controlling manufacturing processes, such as assembly lines, robotic devices, or any activity that requires high reliability, ease of programming, and process fault diagnosis. They are ruggedized to withstand harsh environments like extreme temperatures, vibration, and electrical noise, and they use a specialized programming language, typically ladder logic, to automate electromechanical processes. PLCs continuously monitor inputs from sensors, execute control logic based on a stored program, and control outputs to actuators like motors or valves.
Developers should learn PLCs when working in industrial automation, manufacturing, or control systems engineering, as they are essential for automating machinery and processes in factories, power plants, and infrastructure. They are used in scenarios requiring real-time control, such as conveyor belt systems, packaging lines, or water treatment plants, due to their reliability and deterministic response times. Knowledge of PLCs is valuable for roles involving the integration of hardware and software in industrial settings, often complementing skills in SCADA systems or IoT.