List of Best Free PLC Training Courses Online
Are you looking to break into the world of industrial automation and control systems? The first step is mastering Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). Thankfully, there are numerous free PLC Programming Training courses for beginner available online to help you get started. This article will guide you through the best options, covering fundamental concepts, ladder logic programming, and essential skills to kickstart your PLC career. We'll explore different platforms and course structures to find the perfect fit for your learning style.
Why Choose Free PLC Programming Training courses for beginner?
Investing in your education is crucial, but starting with free resources is a smart way to explore the field and determine if PLC programming is the right path for you. Free courses offer several advantages:
- Cost-effective: Learn the basics without any financial commitment.
- Flexibility: Study at your own pace and on your own schedule.
- Accessibility: Access a wealth of information from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Foundation building: Establish a solid understanding of PLC fundamentals before moving on to more advanced, paid courses.
By starting with a free PLC training course, beginners can gain a basic understanding of PLC programming, ladder logic, and industrial automation concepts without any financial risk. This will enable them to decide if they want to pursue a career in PLC programming.
| Course Name | Provider | Type | Domain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Online PLC Training | AutomationDirect | Free | automationdirect.com |
| Free PLC Training | PLC Academy | Free | plcacademy.com |
| Beginner's Free PLC Training | MyPLCtraining.com | Free | myplctraining.com |
| Master PLC Programming | ALISON | Free | alison.com |
| Open PLC Programming Course | Automation Community | Free | learn.automationcommunity.com |
| Allen Bradley PLC Training | SolisPLC | Free | solisplc.com |
| PLC Technician Certificate Program | PLC Technician | Paid | plctechnician.com |
| PLC Technician Program | George Brown College | Paid | gbctechtraining.com |
| RSLogix 500 Beginners Course | Allen Bradley PLC Training | Paid | allen-bradley-plc-training.com |
| PLC Programming Course | Industrial Technical Training | Paid | industrialtechnicaltraining.org |
| PLC Programming Certificate | Penn State Berks | Paid | berks.psu.edu |
Key Concepts Covered in Introductory PLC Courses
Most beginner-level PLC courses will cover these essential topics:
- Introduction to PLCs: What they are, how they work, and their applications in industry.
- PLC Hardware: Understanding the different components of a PLC system (CPU, I/O modules, power supply).
- Ladder Logic Programming: The most common PLC programming language, using symbols to represent logical operations.
- Basic Logic Gates: AND, OR, NOT, XOR gates and their implementation in ladder logic.
- Timers and Counters: Using timers and counters to control sequential operations.
- Input/Output (I/O) Addressing: Assigning addresses to physical inputs and outputs.
- Basic Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving common PLC programming errors.
Top Free PLC Training Courses Online
Here's a curated list of some of the best free PLC Programming Training courses for beginner available online. These courses vary in content and delivery style, so choose one that aligns with your learning preferences.
- PLC Academy Free Courses: PLC Academy offers a selection of free introductory courses that cover the fundamentals of PLC programming. They often include video lectures and downloadable resources.
- YouTube Tutorials: Many experienced PLC programmers share their knowledge on YouTube. Search for "PLC programming tutorial for beginners" to find a wealth of content.
- Vendor-Specific Training: Some PLC manufacturers, like Siemens and Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation), offer free introductory training on their specific PLC platforms.
- Online Forums and Communities: Platforms like Reddit (r/PLC) and specialized forums can provide valuable insights and answers to your questions.
Comparing Free PLC Training Options
| Course/Resource | Content Focus | Level | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLC Academy Free Courses | Fundamentals, Ladder Logic | Beginner | Structured learning, video lectures | May not be as comprehensive as paid courses |
| YouTube Tutorials | Various topics, vendor-specific | Beginner to Advanced | Wide variety of content, free access | Quality can vary, may lack structure |
| Vendor-Specific Training | Specific PLC platforms (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) | Beginner | Focused on industry-standard equipment, free | Limited to one vendor's products |
| Online Forums/Communities | Troubleshooting, real-world applications | All Levels | Community support, practical advice | Information can be scattered, requires filtering |
Ladder Logic: The Foundation of PLC Programming
Ladder logic is a graphical programming language widely used for PLC programming. It's based on relay logic diagrams, making it easy for electricians and technicians to understand and use. Mastering ladder logic is essential for any aspiring PLC programmer.
Here's a simple example of a ladder logic program:
--| |--------------------( )--
Input OutputThis code represents a simple circuit where the output is energized when the input is true (closed).
Understanding Ladder Logic Symbols
Common ladder logic symbols include:
- ---| |---: Normally Open Contact (input)
- ---|/|---: Normally Closed Contact (input)
- ---( )---: Output Coil
- ---(L)---: Latch Coil
- ---(U)---: Unlatch Coil
The basic function of ladder logic in PLC programming is to emulate the relay logic used in electrical control panels. This makes it easier for electricians to transition to PLC programming.
Essential Skills Beyond PLC Programming
While PLC programming is the core skill, several other competencies will enhance your effectiveness as an automation professional:
- Electrical Engineering Fundamentals: Understanding circuit diagrams, voltage, current, and power.
- Networking Basics: Knowledge of industrial communication protocols like Ethernet/IP, Profinet, and Modbus.
- Instrumentation and Sensors: Familiarity with different types of sensors used in industrial processes (temperature, pressure, flow).
- HMI/SCADA Systems: Understanding Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for process visualization and control.
- Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving: Developing strong diagnostic skills to identify and resolve issues in automated systems.
Building Your PLC Programming Portfolio
To showcase your skills to potential employers, build a portfolio of PLC programming projects. This could include:
- Simulated Projects: Create programs for simulated industrial processes using PLC simulation software.
- Personal Projects: Automate tasks around your home or workshop using a small PLC system.
- Open-Source Projects: Contribute to open-source PLC programming projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PLC and what does it do?
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a specialized computer used to automate industrial processes. It receives inputs from sensors and devices, processes them according to a programmed logic, and generates outputs to control actuators and other equipment.
Is prior programming experience required to learn PLC programming?
While prior programming experience can be helpful, it is not strictly required. Many PLC programming courses are designed for beginners with no prior coding knowledge. A basic understanding of electrical concepts and logic is more important.
What is ladder logic and why is it used in PLC programming?
Ladder logic is a graphical programming language used for PLC programming. It is based on relay logic diagrams, making it easy for electricians and technicians familiar with relay control systems to understand and use. Ladder logic provides a visual representation of the control logic, making it easier to troubleshoot and maintain.
Which PLC brand should I learn as a beginner?
Siemens and Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) are two of the most popular PLC brands. Starting with either of these brands is a good choice, as they are widely used in industry and have extensive training resources available. Consider researching which brand is more prevalent in your local area or the industries you are interested in.
What software is used for PLC programming?
PLC programming software varies depending on the PLC brand. Some popular software packages include Siemens TIA Portal, Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, and Omron Sysmac Studio. Many manufacturers offer free trial versions or educational licenses for their software.
How long does it take to learn PLC programming?
The time it takes to learn PLC programming depends on your background, learning style, and the depth of knowledge you want to acquire. You can grasp the basics of ladder logic and PLC fundamentals in a few weeks with consistent study. However, mastering advanced topics and gaining practical experience can take several months or even years.
Are there any certifications for PLC programming?
Yes, some organizations and PLC manufacturers offer certifications for PLC programming. These certifications can demonstrate your expertise and enhance your career prospects. Research certifications offered by Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and other relevant organizations.
Conclusion
Embarking on a journey to learn PLC programming can be incredibly rewarding, opening doors to exciting opportunities in the field of industrial automation. By leveraging the free PLC Programming Training courses for beginner available online, you can build a strong foundation and develop the skills needed to succeed. Remember to supplement your learning with hands-on practice, real-world projects, and continuous exploration of new technologies. Ready to start your PLC programming journey? Explore the resources mentioned in this article and take the first step towards a rewarding career in automation!
Take Action: Start your PLC programming training today! Explore free PLC courses here.
Discussion (0)
Start the conversation!
Share your thoughts on this article.