How Beginners Can Master PLC Learning Methods

Many beginners find learning PLC quite challenging, perhaps because they haven’t mastered the correct methods. Learning PLC isn’t as difficult as you might think. Whether you are a beginner, have no background, are an electrician, or want to improve your learning efficiency, if mastering this method could enable you to self-study any subject, would you do it? This method is also suitable for learning other content, as everyone’s learning methods vary; this method is for reference only.

First, you need to understand the purpose of your current studies. Many beginners do not know how to learn and try to learn everything, which can lead to what situation? Learning too much without depth, with many contents not applicable in work. Learning PLC must be practical; knowledge not used for a long time will be forgotten. If you are a beginner, what is your goal? To get started with PLC, what foundational knowledge do you need? PLC will involve circuit wiring, circuit logic, drawing, and using computer software, so you need to learn these skills first. Learning PLC is like building a house; if your goal is to construct a skyscraper, you need a solid foundation.

Building a skyscraper requires many tools to make the process easier and more efficient. What tools can we use in this era?

1. Computer: During the learning process, you will need a computer to write programs, configure touch screens, and conduct on-site debugging. The configuration requirements depend on the software you need to install later; a higher configuration is better. A high-spec computer runs faster, and many people still use old computers which can lag when multiple software is opened. Imagine encountering a difficult problem during your studies and then your computer freezes; wouldn’t that significantly impact your mood? Your learning efficiency would drop dramatically. The best system is the official Microsoft system, as many people encounter various errors when installing software, most of which are system-related issues.

2. PLC Hardware: If you are a beginner, you must have a PLC, which can be new or second-hand. Why is it essential to have a PLC? Many who learn the 200smart PLC have asked if they can use the 200 simulation software. The 200 simulation software can be used but is limited to basic instruction programming; having a physical PLC is better. Users of the 200 simulation software often encounter many errors, most of which are unsupported instructions. Other hardware should be purchased based on your learning needs; you can also buy a learning chassis.

3. Baidu: A quick search on Baidu can yield answers. For conceptual questions, you can directly query Baidu. For example, how to upload and download using Siemens 200smart software; entering this question on Baidu will return many answers.

3.1 Official Websites: Many people encounter issues with manuals and software downloads. You should visit the corresponding brand’s official website. For example, to find Mitsubishi’s software and manuals, go to the Mitsubishi website’s download center. Taking Siemens as an example, the Siemens download center is relatively hard to find, so I provide the URL for the Siemens download center here: http://www.ad.siemens.com.cn/download/. For example, if you need the 200smart PLC system manual, the steps are as follows:

Using similar methods for downloading software and upgrading PLC firmware is also effective. Technical forums on various websites have many question threads; if you can’t find the answer, you can post your own question. For urgent issues not found online, you can call the corresponding official technical service hotline.

4. Manuals and Instructions: Regardless of the product you use, you need to refer to its manual or instructions. For example, if you want to know how to use a Delta frequency converter, you need a manual. How to use the manual correctly? First, you need to wire the Delta frequency converter, so check the wiring diagram section of the manual. Next, to operate the frequency converter, you need to refer to the operating instructions, parameter descriptions, etc., meaning you should look up the relevant manual content based on what you need to do.

1. Videos: Videos can help learners understand software, programming, and other processes more intuitively. Beginners can follow along with the videos step by step to use the software for programming. Jicheng Training Network is the largest online education institution in the country, with comprehensive videos covering electricians, PLCs, touch screens/configuration software, stepper/servo/frequency converters, robots/vision, and more. They offer courses on commonly used PLC brands such as Mitsubishi, Siemens, Omron, AB, Delta, Schneider, Beckhoff, etc. Different series and levels of membership provide access to different videos at varying prices.

2. Offline Training: Offline training is the fastest way to learn, but it is also more costly.

3. Purchase Equipment: In the automation industry, it’s not just about watching videos, reading books, or manuals; you also need computers, PLCs, and the necessary hardware for learning.

I want to emphasize that investing in yourself is crucial. There is a saying: “You must spend to gain.” Only by investing time and money in yourself will you see returns. Learning does not yield immediate results; it requires a long-term commitment. For example, if you are currently just an electrician earning 6k, and you invest 10k in yourself, after six months of study, you could achieve simple equipment design and modification. Your boss might give you a 1k raise; after a year, your investment in yourself would pay off. Some may think: it sounds easy, but reality is different.

Learning is a long process. The 10,000-hour rule states that the reason people see geniuses as extraordinary is not due to innate talent but the continuous effort they put in. The 10,000 hours of practice is a necessary condition for anyone to transform from ordinary to a world-class master. However, not everyone who practices for 10,000 hours will become an expert in that field; the correct methods combined with sustained effort are essential.

Learning PLC requires continuous practice and project writing to enhance your experience. It is not enough to just watch a series of courses to fully grasp the knowledge; you need to learn and apply simultaneously. Learning should be step-by-step; do not attempt to run before you can walk. Many beginners feel that they understand programs explained by others at a glance, but when writing themselves, they feel lost. This is due to insufficient experience; you need more practice, observe how others write programs, and how they design videos, then write it yourself.

Learning PLC is a PDCA process: 1 Plan, 2 Do, 3 Check, 4 Action.

Mastering the correct methods will make your learning more efficient. I hope this article can help you if you encounter difficulties in learning. If you find the methods in this article useful, feel free to share it with your friends or anyone you want to help, and let’s become more efficient together.