PLC Hardware Explained

A PLC, or Programmable Logic Controller, is a specialized computer with hardware components like a processor (CPU and memory), power supply, input/output modules, and a programming device.
Modern PLCs replace traditional hardware circuitry in industrial applications, though original devices still connect to the PLC.
The power supply provides DC power to PLC modules, while input/output modules connect to digital or analog field devices. Typically, a laptop or desktop is used for programming.

[@PatrickKQ4HBD]

Excellent diagramming and explanation. It makes better sense now.

[@realpars]

Glad you think so!

[@theaubiastoffi]

Me as well

[@robertwasswa1631]

Thank you....can you kindly talk more about printed circuit boards versus plcs. Thank you. As the field I work in....some unit today use printed circuit boards well as years ago they used plcs....what are some merirs and demerits of both control modules.....my field is HVACR. Portable HVACR. I work with manufacturers like Siemens, Beckett, Riello, Omron, Hartland Controls, Dungs, Fireye and others.

[@boycefenn]

PLC's and PCB's are not mutually exclusive. in fact PLC's have PCB's inside of them. PCB is a very broad category that includes any circuit printed onto a board (hence the name) these days essentially all electronic devices are made with PCB's, including PLC's. A PLC is small computation device designed to interface with external hardware like sensors, motors, and lights. if you're at all familiar with the hobby electronics space that may sound a lot like an Arduino; thats because they are fundamentally the same thing. the only difference is that PLC's are designed for industrial use and as such have some extra features and physical protection that micro-controller boards like the Arduino don't really need.

[@realpars]

Great suggestion! I will happily pass that on to our course developers as a topic suggestion.
Thank you for sharing!