【正文】 PLC reading inputs, solving the ladder logic, and then changing the outputs. Like any puter this does not happen instantly. Figure shows the basic operation cycle of a PLC. When power is turned on initially the PLC does a quick sanity check to ensure that the hardware is working there is a problem the PLC will halt and indicate there is an error. For example, if the PLC power is dropping and about to go off this will result in one type of fault. If the PLC passes the sanity check it will then scan (read) all the inputs. After the inputs values are stored in memory the ladder logic will be scanned (solved) using the stored values not the current values. This is done to prevent logic problems when inputs change during the ladder logic scan. When the ladder logic scan is plete the outputs will be scanned (the output values will be changed). After this the system goes back to do a sanity check, and the loop continues indefinitely. Unlike normal puters, the entire program will be run every scan. Typical times for each of the stages is in the order of milliseconds.Figure The Scan Cycle of a PLC Ladder Logic InputsPLC inputs are easily represented in ladder logic. In Figure there are three types of inputs shown. The first two are normally open and normally closed inputs, discussed previously. The IIT (Immediate InpuT) function allows inputs to be read after the input scan, while the ladder logic is being scanned. This allows ladder logic to examine input values more often than once every cycle. (Note: This instruction is not available on the ControlLogix processors, but is still available on older models.)Figure Ladder Logic Inputs Ladder Logic OutputsIn ladder logic there are multiple types of outputs, but these are not consistently available on all PLCs. Some of the outputs will be externally connected to devices outside the PLC, but it is also possible to use internal memory locations in the PLC. Six types of outputs are shown in Figure . The first is a normal output, when energized the output will turn on, and energize an output. The circle with a diagonal line through is a normally on output. When energized the output will turn off. This type of output is not available on all PLC types. When initially energized the OSR (One Shot Relay) instruction will turn on for one scan, but then be off for all scans after, until it is turned off. The L (latch) and U (unlatch) instructions can be used to lock outputs on. When an L output is energized the output will turn on indefinitely, even when the output coil is deenergized. The output can only be turned off using a U output. The last instruction is the IOT (Immediate OutpuT) The last instruction is the IOT (Immediate OutpuT)that will allow outputs to be updated without having to wait for the ladder logic scan to be pleted. INPUTS AND OUTPUTSInputs to, and outputs from, a PLC are necessary to monitor and control a process. Both inputs and outputs can be categorized into two basic types: logical or continuous. Consider the example of a light bulb. If it can only be turned on or off, it is logical control. If the light can be dimmed to different levels, it is continuous. Continuous values seem more intuitive, but logical values are preferred because they allow more certainty, and simplify control. As a result most controls applications (and PLCs) use logical inputs and outputs for most applications. Hence, we will discuss logical I/O and leave continuous I/O for later. Outputs to actuators allow a PLC to cause something to happen in a process. A short list of popular actuators is given below in order of relative popularity. Solenoid Valves logical outputs that can switch a hydraulic or pneumatic flow. Lights logical outputs that can often be powered directly from PLC output Starters motors often draw a large amount of current when started, so they require motor starters, which are basically large relays. Servo Motors a continuous output from the PLC can mand a variable speed or position. Outputs from PLCs are often relays, but they can also be solid state electronics such as transistors for DC outputs or Triacs for AC outputs. Continuous outputs require special output cards with digital to analog converters. Inputs e from sensors that translate physical phenomena into electrical signals.Typical examples of sensors are listed below in relative order of Switches use inductance, capacitance or light to detect an object logically. Switches mechanical mechanisms will open or close electrical contacts for a logical signal. Potentiometer measures angular positions continuously, using resistance. LVDT (linear variable differential transformer) measures linear displacement continuously using magnetic coupling. Inputs for a PLC e in a few basic varieties, the simplest are AC and DC inputs. Sourcing and sinking inputs are also popular. This output method dictates that a device does not supply any power. Instead, the device only switches current on or off, like a simple switch. Sinking When active the output allows current to flow to a mon ground. This is best selected when different voltages are supplied. Sourcing When active, current flows from a supply, through the output device and