Which Language is Best for PLC Programming?

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⌚Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:32 - Ladder Diagram (LD)
03:06 - Function Block Diagram (FBD)
04:39 - Structured Text (ST)
05:23 - Sequential Function Chart (SFC)
06:48 - Instruction List (IL)
07:08 - Wrap-Up

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At RealPars, we are often asked which PLC programming language is the best to learn.

Although the students who ask that question want a definitive answer, the only correct answer is “It depends on the context”.

Every PLC programming language exists for a reason and is suitable for specific applications.

Different programming languages are more popular in some countries and industries than others.

So the best PLC programming language for you to learn may vary depending on where you live and what industry you are interested in.

In this video, we will explain the main features of the five IEC 61131-3 programming languages along with their strengths and weaknesses and where they are used to help you decide which PLC programming languages to focus on first.

- Ladder Diagram (LD) is the most commonly used PLC programming language. It is a high-level, graphical programming language that is designed to be easy to read and understand for easy maintenance and troubleshooting.

Ladder Diagram is the first PLC programming language that many PLC programmers will learn because most companies want to hire engineers who can program with Ladder Diagram.

The biggest advantage of Ladder Diagram is its graphical nature. It is very easy to look at a rung and debug the logic even if you are not a programmer.

Ladder Diagram is a great programming language for complex Boolean logic.

- Function Block Diagram (FBD) is another graphical programming language for PLCs. In Function Block Diagram, Function Blocks are placed on a sheet and wired together. The end result looks very similar to a P&ID Diagram.

The big advantage of FBD over LD is that the outputs of one Function Block can flow into the next or be used as feedback without using intermediate variables.

This feature makes FBD great for controlling continuous processes where analog values are constantly being monitored and outputs adjusted to keep the value within a range.

Because of its resemblance to P&IDs and its ability to easily control continuous processes, FBD is commonly used in process industries.

- Structured Text (ST) is a text-based programming language for PLCs. In general, ST is very powerful for performing complex arithmetic operations and for looping over data structures like arrays.

- Sequential Function Chart (SFC) is a flowchart-like programming language that is used to build state machines and sequencers for processes.

SFC is an incredibly easy language to design in. You create a block for each state that is supported by your process, program the actions that are executed while the machine is in each state, and the conditions that are required to transition from one state to another.

SFC is also easy to monitor and debug at runtime since you can see exactly what state is active and what conditions must be true to transition to the next state.

- Instruction list (IL) is an obsolete programming language that was very similar to an assembly language. You may encounter an instruction list if you are working in a maintenance role, but the recommendation from most manufacturers is not to use Instruction List for new projects.

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If you want to learn more about PLC programming using IEC 61131-3 programming languages, then check out our course CODESYS 1 where you can learn to write your first PLC program using the Ladder Diagram programming language.

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#PLC #plcprogramming #RealPars

[rockyrivermushrooms]

I like structured text the most because I learned languages like c++ and python before PLC. When I was forced to use ladder I found myself trying to convert ST to LD in my head. Ladder is great for simple solutions like conveyor belts and smaller projects but eventually debugging can be a little bit annoying especially if theres a lot of math. FBD is a nice combo of ladder and structured text. You can make complex functions in ST and then use it in your FBD.

[HHH-nvxb]

You will be forced to learn whatever is available.
Generally, my preferences are:
1. Requires Tech/Electrician to troubleshoot: Ladder.
2. Recipe management where it either works or won't: Basic (AB=> Structure text).
3. Analog control: Function Block; Not a fan, but I see how some people prefers it.

Programmer should program with the end user in mind. The end user is not just the operators/users. The folks who have to troubleshoot the control system should be considered (skill set).

[SeferDöngel]

Wooww.. "In many ways, it’s like asking what is the best tool in a toolbox." that is the best answer I've ever heard for which Language best for PLC Programming is. 🤘

[Techwem]

Easy to understand explanation...Always something new to learn from Realpars.

[TMJ]

I use FBD, ST and SFC almost exclusively if given a choice. Occasionally LD for certain applications or if I have to. I have never used IL.

[samalfellah]

LD will remain most dominant, hardly any downside to it, thanks for the video.

[lorisayuq]

structure text most friendly proggramming language..u can copy ST and paste to any brand of PLC easily without worry just define the variables

[seyideliqasimov]

hello, I am studying automation engineering and I am a 3rd year undergraduate student. So, I want to develop myself in this field. What tips do you have for this? Basically what should I learn?

[alexanderskusnov]

My method - state graph, I do it on MatLab/Simulink Stateflow (like SFC). Then MatLab converts Stateflow diagram to ST (alas, I prefer SFC) of the target PLC.

[aliusef]

the best engineering channel ever existed...!!!

[klarnorbert]

Awesome video, as always. Wondering: is there an explaining video about safety relays? Can't find anything about it on the channel.

[ZER]

IL is the fastest language of all, don't think its obsolete at all, the concept of accumulator simplify many steps

[broderickcamel]

If you guys had IEC focused ladder diagram simulator for training I'd renew my subscription for a year to practice

[eraldsadiku]

In machine automation, we all only use structured text.

[carlover]

What do you think about Siemens Technology Module NPU for PLCs?! for example: S7-1500

[joseluisblanco]

Instruction list is not obsolete at all, at least in Europe

[MarsShare]

Hello realpars c an i know which plc is suitable for beginners for learning