A few days ago, a friend asked me how much it would cost to learn PLC. We discussed a lot, and I summarized it as follows! Different learning paths have completely different prices and time commitments:
Path 1: Self-learning Software Only (Lowest Cost, Approximately 0 – 500 Yuan)
This method is suitable for self-disciplined learners who aim to get started and understand the basics! First, consider these free learning resources, such as Bilibili and YouTube, which have a wealth of free introductory teaching videos. The quality varies, but they are sufficient for beginners. Technical forums (like industrial control forums and Zhihu) can be used to ask questions and find materials.
You can also purchase classic textbooks, such as “PLC Programming and Applications” (edited by Liao Changchu), which costs about 50 – 100 Yuan.
As for software, major brands (like Siemens, Mitsubishi, Omron) offer free personal learning versions or trial versions with certain functional limitations. For example, Siemens’ TIA Portal has a “Basic Version” and a 21-day trial.
Many PLC software packages come with simulation functions (like Siemens S7-PLCSIM), allowing you to test programs without needing a real PLC, which is a great tool for self-learning.
So, to summarize:
Hardware Cost: 0 Yuan. Completely reliant on software simulation.
Training Cost: 0 Yuan.
If you have enough perseverance, by using free online resources + official free software + simulation, you can achieve a basic understanding of PLC for less than 100 Yuan in book fees and be able to write simple logic control programs!
Path 2: Software + Basic Hardware Self-learning (Most Recommended Self-learning Method, Approximately 500 – 3000 Yuan)
This is the most effective self-learning method because programming ultimately involves interacting with hardware. Hands-on practice can greatly enhance understanding.
1.Learning Materials: Same as Path 1, approximately 0 – 200 Yuan.
2. Software Cost: Same as Path 1, 0 Yuan (using the free version).
Hardware Cost: This is the main expense.
1. Starter Kit: It is recommended to start with domestic niche brands or second-hand Siemens/Mitsubishi. There are many PLC learning kits available on Taobao.
2.Domestic PLCs (like Huichuan, Xinjie): A basic PLC module + some switches, indicator lights, relays, a set costs about 300 – 800 Yuan. Very cost-effective, with logic similar to mainstream brands.
3. Second-hand Siemens S7-200 SMART: As a classic entry-level model, a second-hand CPU with a digital expansion module costs about 800 – 1500 Yuan.
4. Adding a Touch Screen: A second-hand or domestic 7-inch touch screen costs about 300 – 600 Yuan.
5. Adding a Variable Frequency Drive/Servo (optional, advanced):If you want to learn motion control, a small servo or variable frequency drive with a motor costs about 500 – 1500 Yuan.
With an investment of around 1500 Yuan, you can build a fairly complete experimental platform, sufficient to learn most basic and application instructions, as well as simple HMI and communication control.
Path 3: Attend Offline Training Classes (High Cost, Quick Entry, Approximately 5000 – 15000+ Yuan)
This is suitable for those who want to switch careers quickly, are looking for employment, and have weak self-learning abilities or no time to self-learn. The cost varies greatly depending on the course content (whether it includes touch screens, servos, network communication, etc.), training duration, and city:
1. Short-term Introductory Classes: Approximately 5000 – 8000 Yuan.
2. Long-term Employment Classes (guaranteed learning and job placement): Approximately 10000 – 15000+ Yuan.
Advantages:
1.Systematic teaching and Q&A from instructors, clear learning paths.
2. Usually provide complete experimental equipment, no need to purchase hardware.
3. There is a learning atmosphere and peer interaction, possibly providing employment guidance.
Disadvantages:
High costs, and training quality varies greatly, requiring careful selection! Additionally, here are some extra suggestions to be aware of regarding hidden costs:
1. Which brand to start learning with?
Siemens: Market leader, industry benchmark, most learning materials available, but hardware and licensed software are relatively expensive.
Mitsubishi: Popular among Japanese and Korean companies, intuitive instruction system, easy to get started.
Domestic PLCs (like Huichuan, Xinjie, etc.): Rapidly rising, cost-effective, with instructions similar to Siemens/Mitsubishi, very suitable for beginners. Strongly recommend beginners start with domestic PLCs.
2. Time Cost
From zero to being able to independently complete simple projects, if you invest 2-3 hours daily, using the learning method from Path 2 usually takes 3-6 months. This is a very important investment.
3. Practical Opportunities
If you can find related work, learning while working is a zero-cost and highly effective way!
Final Conclusion
For the vast majority of those who want to seriously learn PLC, preparing a budget of 1000 – 2000 Yuan and choosing the “software and hardware combined self-learning” path is the most cost-effective and effective solution.
This investment allows you to purchase a decent domestic PLC + touch screen experimental equipment and systematically learn through free online resources. This investment is very worthwhile for the returns it brings to your future career development.