In this article, we will discuss PLC programming ladder logic. Did you ever think about how machines and robots are directed to carry out particular tasks? This is where the PLC programming and ladder logic comes into picture. We could figure it all out together in this article where you will have a dive at the basics of PLC programming and ladder logic.
PLC is Programmable Logic Controller. It is a category of computer used to control the manufacturing and other processes (synonyms: “machinery controllers”, “control systems”, “Industrial Automation”). PLC programming writes code that instructs the PLC what to do, how to do and when to do. A common language used for PLC programming is Ladder Logic.
Ladder logic — a visual programming language for PLCs, based on the icons of circuit diagrams used for the creation of programs. Ladder logic is so named because it looks like a ladder with two vertical rails (supply power) and rungs connecting these vertical rails. One rung shows the PLC one action or task that it must do.
When you are writing a ladder logic for a PLC, the first step is to understand what it is that the PLC will be controlling. After, that you can starting building the program by defining the Problem in smaller steps and distill them to Actions. The device, such as an input or output, connected to the PLC represents each step in the ladder logic diagram.

For instance, if we have device such as conveyor belt that move boxes from one place to another, so we will create in ladder a number of rungs to start the motor, stop the motor, detect each box and move this conveyor belt forward or backward. Huaqingjun 8-Channel Ethernet IO Communication Relay Module 24VDC RJ45 Modbus TCP Protocol for PLC

A method to analyze the issue is by using simulation environment and testing the program, following which just notice how does PLC determining its output against different input. You can debug this program and make sure that the output is reliable by observing the behavior of this program. Huaqingjun 16-Channel RS485 Communication Relay Module 24V RS485 MODBUS RTU DO Modules for PLC Expansion

Once you have experience of PLC programming and use of ladder logic, then there are some advanced tips & tricks or best practices that can be followed to make your program more optimized and efficient. When writing PLC programs, it is advised to have a better organization of the code, which means keeping many small and discrete function blocks named after their function, and always comment the code in an understandable manner depicting as what each part of your program does.