What this book covers
Chapter 1, Computer Science Versus Automation Programming, introduces you to computer science and contrasts it with automation programming. This chapter will explore the various types of controllers, emerging technologies, and more.
Chapter 2, PLC Components – Integrating PLCs with Other Modules, focuses on introducing the various components that make up a traditional PLC. This chapter will introduce you to analog and digital principles as well as all the needed components that a PLC will need to operate.
Chapter 3, The Basics of Programming, lays the foundation for programming. This chapter will introduce you to what programs are, how they work, and much more.
Chapter 4, Unleashing Computer Memory, lays the foundation for more advanced chapters by introducing you to the basics of memory. Topics explored will include what memory is, how memory works, and common storage devices.
Chapter 5, Designing Programs – Unleashing Pseudocode and Flowcharts, teaches you how to create a design for a program. Concepts explored will be designing a program in pseudocode and with a flowchart.
Chapter 6, Boolean Algebra, covers the basics of Boolean algebra. The core principles will be to learn how to compute logical equations, understand logical operators, and create truth tables.
Chapter 7, Unlocking the Power of ST, explores what Structured Text truly is and why it is important. The key takeaways from this chapter are understanding why Structured Text is important, why it should be used, and how to set up the programming environment.
Chapter 8, Exploring Variables and Tags, expands on and applies the material presented in Chapter 4 to implement what are called variables or tags. This chapter will cover concepts such as data types, naming conventions, and much more.
Chapter 9, Performing Calculations in Structured Text, covers one of the most pivotal skills any PLC programmer can have: programming mathematical calculations. Topics will include how to program math equations and common math functions.
Chapter 10, Unleashing Built-In Function Blocks, explores the built-in function blocks. The main takeaway will be for you to understand what a built-in function block is and how to use common function blocks such as timers and counters.
Chapter 11, Unlocking the Power of Flow Control, introduces flow control with conditionals. This chapter will explore how the flow of a program can be altered and basic intelligence can be introduced to a program.
Chapter 12, Unlocking Advanced Control Statements, expands on concepts that were explored in the previous chapter, and examines topics such as embedded conditional statements, complex logical expressions, and much more.
Chapter 13, Implementing Tight Loops, provides an in-depth exploration of loops. This chapter will explore various types of loops in Structured Text as well as their applications.
Chapter 14, Sorting with Loops, introduces you to the basics of sorting algorithms. The key takeaway from this chapter is to introduce you to concepts such as algorithms, Big O notation, the basics of arrays, common sorting algorithms, and more.
Chapter 15, Secure PLC Programming – Stopping Cyberthreats, provides an overview of the cybersecurity landscape in relation to PLC-based systems. This chapter will present a lot of theoretical knowledge that can be applied to the design of PLC-based systems, networks, and more.
Chapter 16, Troubleshooting PLCs – Fixing Issues, provides the necessary steps to troubleshoot a malfunctioning PLC-based machine. Topics will include common issues, necessary tools, IT diagnostics, and more.
Chapter 17, Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), explores how generative AI (ChatGPT) can be used to help automatically write software. This chapter will explore what generative AI is, how to use it, reasonable expectations, and how to write prompts.
Chapter 18, The Final Project – Programming a Simulated Robot, draws on material explored throughout the book. This chapter will focus on programming a theoretical robot that sorts parts and sends lots down the proper production line.
