A Comprehensive Guide to Finding and Utilizing Free PLC Training Resources

For anyone looking to start a career in the field of automation or simply enhance their skills in Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), the search for free PLC training resources can be both exciting and overwhelming. With numerous online platforms offering learning materials, it's crucial to navigate effectively to make the most of your time and resources.

Introduction to Free PLC Training Resources

Where can one find these essential free resources? This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various free PLC training resources available, including YouTube channels, online courses, simulators, and more.

YouTube: The Go-To Repository for PLC Training

YouTube is an unparalleled resource when it comes to learning about PLCs. It offers a vast array of videos and tutorials covering everything from basic concepts to advanced applications. There are numerous awesome YouTube channels dedicated to automation and control systems, making it easier than ever to get started.

Exploring YouTube for PLC Training

YouTube is not just a platform to watch videos; it's a tool for structuring your learning path. To make the most of your time, it's essential to list down the topics and their hierarchy. By organizing your notes and creating playlists, you can ensure that you follow a structured learning path.

For instance: you might want to start with basic PLC programming concepts, then move on to ladder logic, function block diagrams (FBD), and so on. By following a structured approach, you can build a solid foundation and progress to more advanced topics.

Free PLC Software and Simulators

While YouTube provides an excellent starting point, supplementing your learning with practical tools and simulators is essential. One such resource is the free PLC software from CodeSys. CodeSys is not only free but also supports a wide range of standard programming languages like ladder logic, function block diagrams (FBD), and structured text (ST).

CodeSys offers plenty of tutorials, which can help you get started quickly. However, for a more structured learning experience, it's recommended to enroll in an online course at EIT. EIT provides comprehensive and structured PLC training courses, which can be beneficial for hands-on learners.

Practical Practice with PLC Simulators

Learning a new skill is one thing, but applying it in practical scenarios is another. To bridge the gap between theory and practice, it's essential to use free simulators. These tools allow you to simulate PLC programs in a controlled environment, helping you to implement what you've learned.

Some popular free simulators include:

PLC executable demo: A free tool that allows you to create and run simple PLC programs. VirtualPLC: An open-source simulation tool that supports various PLC programming languages. FESTO e-campus: Although it has some paid components, it offers a wealth of free resources, including simulation tools and virtual workshops.

Using these simulators can help you test your code, identify errors, and optimize your programs before deploying them in real-world scenarios.

Conclusion

While the journey of learning PLC programming can be challenging, it is incredibly rewarding. By leveraging the vast array of free PLC training resources available, you can build a solid foundation in the field. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to enhance your existing skills, the key is to stay organized, structured, and hands-on.

So, start your learning journey today and unlock the world of automation and control systems. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to dive into these resources and start learning!