Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC’s) are the foundation for manufacturing and the industrial IoT. Developers are probably used to purchasing off-the-shelf PLC controllers, but it is possible to build a simple low-cost PLC controller using microcontroller components. In this course, we will explore PLC fundamentals and how we can create our own internet connected PLC controller using an STM32 microcontroller.
Session 1 – PLC Fundamentals
In this session, attendees will learn about programmable logic controllers (PLC’s) and the role that they play in the industrial IoT. We will explore when and where PLC’s can be used along with the typical PLC use case. We will also begin a basic discussion about how to control a PLC through ladder Logic.
Registration and Playback located here (May require login to access)
Session 2 – Designing a PLC
This session will walk developers through the steps necessary to design an internet connected PLC. We will select the major hardware and software components that will be used to assemble the PLC. We will explore how to perform an objective analysis using a KT matrix. Attendees will walk away with an increased knowledge on how to properly select components for an application.
Registration and Playback located here (May require login to access)
Session 3 – PLC Software Design Part 1
In this session, attendees will examine the underlying details on how to create an internet connected PLC. We will setup a software project and the major library components necessary to start assembling the PLC. We will examine the low-level drivers and middleware necessary to get the PLC up and running.
Registration and Playback located here (May require login to access)
Session 4 – PLC Software Design Part 2
In this session, attendees will finish creating their PLC controller. We’ll explore in this session how to finish building and testing the PLC. We will examine Wi-Fi communication and how-to setup the Wi-Fi capabilities of our internet connected PLC.
Registration and Playback located here (May require login to access)
Session 5 – PLC Application Design
In this session we will setup a test PLC application that controls several I/O devices over the internet through a mobile device. Developers will get to design their very own PLC application. We will then review the major points that developers need to take-a-way and implement a PLC in their development cycle.
Registration and Playback located here (May require login to access)
Course Resourses
- Sign-Up for the Embedded Bytes Newsletter here
- Embedded Software Design Techniques – An API Standard for MCU’s here
- Developing Reusable Firmware – A Practical Guide to API’s, HAL’s and Drivers here
- Doxygen C Templates Download can be here
- DesignNews Blog Articles can be found here
- Jacob’s YouTube Channel – here
Course Source Code Download
There are source code downloads for this course. They will be added to this page during the courses live sessions.
