What is ST?

To begin our exploration into the world of ST, we first need to know what ST is. Put bluntly, ST is a text-based programming language that allows automation programmers to write PLC code in an easy-to-read-and-follow format that resembles natural language. In other words, it allows PLC programmers to write code using actual words as opposed to symbols.

ST most closely resembles the old BASIC programming language, with a touch of Ada thrown in for good measure. Overall, ST gives developers a very natural and friendly flow to reading and writing software. To utilize ST effectively, all you need to do is memorize certain keywords, as opposed to memorizing exotic symbols, as you would normally do in Ladder Logic programming. So, what does ST look like?

Area of a circle program in ST

For the inexperienced, ST may seem like an exotic concept that is fraught with perilous complexities. However, ST is quite simple. The following ST program will calculate the area of a...