1. Explain the terms logic control and sequence control?

Logic control, in which the process parameter value depends on

the values of other variables in the process.
A logic control system is a switching system whose output at any moment is determined

exclusively by the values of the current inputs. It has no memory and does not consider

any previous values of input signals in determining the output signal

Sequence control, in which the value of the process parameter

changes as a function of time. The process parameter values
can be either discrete (a sequence of step values) or
continuously variable

2. What is a programmable logic controller?

A programmable logic controller (PLC) can be defined as a

microcomputer-based controller that uses stored instructions in
programmable memory to implement logic, sequencing, timing,
counting, and arithmetic functions through digital or analog input/
output (I/O) modules, for controlling machines and processes. PLC
applications are found in both the process industries and discrete
manufacturing. Examples of applications in process industries include
chemical processing, paper mill operations, and food production. PLCs
are primarily associated with discrete manufacturing industries to
control individual machines, machine cells, transfer lines, material
handling equipment, and automated storage systems.

3. What is a ladder logic diagram?

Ladder logic is a programming language that creates and represents

a program through ladder diagrams that are based on circuit
diagrams. It is mainly used in developing programs or software for
programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which are used in industrial
applications. They are called “ladder” diagrams because they
 resemble a ladder, with two vertical rails (supply power) and as many
“rungs” (horizontal lines) as there are control circuits to represent.

4. What is the difference between a delay-off timer and a delay-

on timer? Draw the timing diagrams also

(1) delay-off timers and (2) delay-on timers. A delay-off timer switches
power on immediately in response to a start signal, and then
switches power off after a specified time delay. Many cars are
equipped with this type of device. When you exit the car, the lights
remain on for a certain length of time (e.g., 30 sec), and then
automatically turn off. A delay-on timer waits a specified length of
time before switching power on when it receives a start signal. To
program a timer, the user must specify the length of the time delay.

5. What is the difference between an up counter and a down

counter?

A counter is a component used to count electrical pulses and store the

results of the counting procedure. The instantaneous contents can be
displayed and/or used in a process control algorithm. Counters are
classified as up counters, down counters, and up/down counters. An up
counter starts at zero and increments its contents (the count total) by
one in response to each pulse. When a preset value has been reached,
the up counter can be reset to zero. An application of such a device is
counting the number of filled beer bottles moving along a conveyor for
boxing into cases. Every set of 24 bottles adds up to one case, and the
counter is then reset to zero. A down counter starts with a preset value
 and decrements the total by one for each pulse received. It could be
used for the same bottling application as above, using a starting preset
value of 24.

6. The two types of components in a ladder logic diagram are

contacts and coils. Give two examples of each type.

(1) contacts, representing inputs, and (2) loads, also known as coils,
representing outputs. Inputs include switches, relay contacts, on/off
sensors (e.g., limit switches and photodetectors), timers, and other
binary contact devices. Loads include motors, lamps, solenoids, and
alarms

7. What are the advantages of using a PLC rather than conventional

relays, timers, counters,and other hardwired control components?

 PLCs are much more reliable and are way easier to troubleshoot.
The mechanical functions of relays simply wear out over time. Plus, the
wiring required to operate a relay system is much more complicated than
a PLC system. This can also cause higher costs to install and upgrade
due to extra labor costs.
 Better Reliability
 More Flexible
 Low Cost
 Easy Communication
 Faster Response Time
 Easy Troubleshooting

8. What are the four basic components of a PLC?

(1) processor, (2) memory unit, (3) power supply, and (4) I/O module. These
components are housed in a suitable cabinet designed for the industrial
environment. In addition, there is (5) a programming device that can be
 disconnected from the PLC when not required.

The processor is the central processing unit (CPU) of the PLC. It

executes the various logic and sequence control functions by
operating on the PLC inputs to determine the appropriate output
signals Connected to the CPU is the memory unit, which contains
the programs of logic, sequencing, and I/O operations. It also
holds data files associated with these programs, including I/O
status bits, counter and timer constants, and other variable and
parameter values. A power supply of 120 VAC is typically used to
drive the PLC The input/output module provides the connections
to the industrial equipment or process that is to be controlled.

9. The typical operating cycle of the PLC, called a scan, consists of

three parts: (1) input scan,(2) program scan, and (3) output scan.
Briefly describe what is accomplished in each part.
The typical operating cycle of the PLC, called a scan, consists of three parts: (1)
input scan, (2) program scan, and (3) output scan. During the input scan, the
inputs to the PLC are read by the processor and the status of each input is
stored in memory. Next, the control program is executed during the program
scan. The input values stored in memory are used in the control logic
calculations to determine the values of the outputs. Finally, during the output
scan, the outputs are updated to agree with the calculated values. The time to
perform the scan is called the scan time, and this time depends on the number
of inputs that must be read, the complexity of control functions to be
performed, and the number of outputs that must be changed.
10. A push-button switch used for starting and stopping electric
motors and other powered devices is a common hardware
component in industrial control systems. It consists of a box with
two buttons, one for START and the other for STOP. When the
START button is depressed momentarily by a human operator,
power is supplied and maintained to the motor (or other load) until
the STOP button is pressed momentarily, which breaks the power
to the POWER-TO-MOTOR. POWER-TO-MOTOR is the output of the
push-button switch, but it also serves as a contact to power the
motor. (a) Define the initial values of the variables. Construct (b)
the truth table for the push button and (c) the logic network
diagram.