Course detail

Introduction to Programmable Logic Controlles

FSI-VAM-KAcad. year: 2026/2027

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to programmable logic controllers (PLC), which constitute a fundamental component of contemporary industrial and non-industrial automation. Students will first explore the theoretical foundations, including PLC architecture, operating principles, and programming techniques. The course then emphasizes practical laboratory assignments, enabling participants to acquire essential skills in the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of control systems. Special attention is devoted to bridging theory with practice and fostering the ability to apply acquired knowledge in real-world engineering contexts.

Language of instruction

Czech

Number of ECTS credits

5

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Entry knowledge

Successful completion of the course requires prior knowledge in automatic control and programming. Students are expected to be familiar with the principles of control loops and demonstrate proficiency in at least one programming language sufficient for developing simple algorithms. These competencies provide the essential foundation for understanding the operation and programming of programmable logic controllers (PLC).

Rules for evaluation and completion of the course

Credit requirements:

  • Active participation in laboratory sessions and completion of assigned tasks.

  • Development of an implementation of a program for designated thematic assignments.

  • Successful completion of a test verifying fundamental theoretical and practical knowledge.

Attendance at lectures is recommended, while participation in laboratory sessions is mandatory and monitored. Any missed classes must be compensated in a manner determined by the laboratory instructor, who sets the conditions for fulfilling the missed study obligations.

Aims

The course aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to address both fundamental and advanced tasks in logical control. Instruction is strongly practice-oriented, with laboratory sessions enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world technical problems. Upon successful completion, participants will be able to work with programmable logic controllers, particularly the Siemens LOGO! series, and will acquire competencies in configuration, programming, and implementation within basic control systems.

Study aids

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

Firemní dokumentace Siemens k LOGO! (http://www.siemens.cz) [online: 1.9.2019]

Recommended reading

Šmějkal, L., Martinásková, M.: PLC a automatizace - Základní pojmy, úvod do programování. Praha, BEN 1999.

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme B-STR-K Bachelor's

    specialization AIŘ , 3 year of study, winter semester, compulsory, profile core courses

Type of course unit

 

Guided consultation in combined form of studies

4 hod., compulsory

Teacher / Lecturer

Syllabus

  1. Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
    (History, significance, and role of PLCs in modern automation.)

  2. Siemens LOGO! Programmable Controllers
    (Architecture, functions, and applications in basic control tasks.)

  3. Elements of Logic Control and Circuit Simulation
    (Fundamental logic functions, their implementation, and simulation.)

  4. Combinational and Sequential Logic
    (Circuits Design principles, application examples, and PLC realization.)

  5. Design and Implementation of State Machines
    (Methodology of state diagrams and their implementation in PLCs.)

  6. Code Editing, Optimization, and Documentation
    (Best practices for efficient programming, debugging, and documentation.)

  7. Programmable Logic Controllers in General
    (Overview of different PLC types, characteristics, and application domains.)

  8. PLC Peripherals
    (Input/output modules, extension components, and system integration.)

  9. Programming Methods and Execution Models
    (Programming languages, structures, and execution approaches.)

  10. Data Communication, Visualization, and Drive Control
    (Integration of PLCs with other systems, visualization tools, and applications in motor control.)

Laboratory exercise

13 hod., compulsory

Teacher / Lecturer

Syllabus

Laboratory sessions are organized in blocks and designed to gradually develop students’ practical skills in working with programmable logic controllers (PLC). The structure of the exercises includes:

  1. Basic combinational and sequential logic control tasks - Implementation of simple applications (e.g., lighting control, level regulation, temperature regulation) using Siemens LOGO! PLC.

  2. Advanced sequential logic control tasks - Solving more complex scenarios (e.g., control of an automatic washing machine model, traffic intersection, intelligent lighting) with Siemens LOGO! PLC.

  3. Introduction to higher-class PLCs - Fundamentals of programming in Structured Text (ST) and exploration of advanced control system capabilities.

  4. Demonstrations of PLC applications in complex systems - Examples of controlling servomechanisms, CNC milling machines, or robotic devices, with emphasis on peripheral integration and data communication.

Guided consultation

35 hod., optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

Syllabus

  1. Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC)
    (History, significance, and role of PLCs in modern automation.)

  2. Siemens LOGO! Programmable Controllers
    (Architecture, functions, and applications in basic control tasks.)

  3. Elements of Logic Control and Circuit Simulation
    (Fundamental logic functions, their implementation, and simulation.)

  4. Combinational and Sequential Logic
    (Circuits Design principles, application examples, and PLC realization.)

  5. Design and Implementation of State Machines
    (Methodology of state diagrams and their implementation in PLCs.)

  6. Code Editing, Optimization, and Documentation
    (Best practices for efficient programming, debugging, and documentation.)

  7. Programmable Logic Controllers in General
    (Overview of different PLC types, characteristics, and application domains.)

  8. PLC Peripherals
    (Input/output modules, extension components, and system integration.)

  9. Programming Methods and Execution Models
    (Programming languages, structures, and execution approaches.)

  10. Data Communication, Visualization, and Drive Control
    (Integration of PLCs with other systems, visualization tools, and applications in motor control.)