Yangon Technological University

Department of Electronic Engineering

Automation Technology I (PLC)
EcE-51015
Assignment II

Name- Nway Theint Khin

Roll Number- VEC-2
Date- 4 March 2024
PLCs Input Devices
PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) use input devices to gather information from the
external environment. These input devices provide data to the PLC, allowing it to make decisions
and control various processes.PLCs are classified into following the main categories based on the
number of input and outputs they can handle: Nano PLC: PLC that has less than 32 input/output
(I/O) functions. Micro PLC: PLC that has more than 32 Input/Output (I/O) points but not more
than 128 input/output (I/O) functions. The data collected from the field devices are considered as
the input to the PLC controller. Essentially, PLC systems comprise a variety of input modules to
monitor real-world (machine) parameters or to receive discrete and/or analog input command
signals from human interface devices, central control computers, or other PLCs. In addition to
detecting the status of the input signals, input modules are also required to connect the PLC
system to the field input devices.
The multiple inputs used in PLCs are broadly categorized as Analog and Digital inputs. Hence,
Analog and Digital Input modules make up a major subsystem in all PLC systems, as they
provide an interface between the CPU and the Output modules
1) Digital PLC Inputs
The most common types of PLC inputs are digital inputs, often referred to as discrete inputs.
Digital PLC inputs are signals which are either ON or OFF, that are applied to PLC controllers
from discrete field devices. The concept of digital signals is derived from the Binary number
system, in which the only possible digits are 0 or 1, hence the name binary inputs. With 1
indicating a HIGH state and 0 representing a LOW state.
A PLC system uses binary inputs (1 or 0) to determine the status of a given field input device,
whether it is OFF or ON. For example, if the operating voltage of a given PLC input module is
24 VDC, then 0VDC will act as OFF state (binary 0) while 24 VDC will act as ON state (Binary
1). Therefore, digital inputs are always either ON or OFF, and they can also be described as
either 1 or 0, OPEN or CLOSED.Common Digital Input Devices in PLCs are Push Buttons,
Proximity Sensors and Limit Switch.
The concept of Sinking versus Sourcing in digital PLC Inputs is confusing to most people. But it
is a fairly simple concept. The basic electrical theory states that to complete a circuit and for
current to flow, Direct Current (DC) must flow from DC+ through a load to DC-. Therefore,
sourcing and sinking have to do with which side of circuit polarity you’re completing when
interfacing your PLC input module.

2) Analog PLC Inputs

An analog PLC input is a continuous signal from a field input device to the PLC control system.
Analog inputs are characterized by signals with a range of values much greater than just 0 or 1.
The analog signals can either be an a13-bit or a 12-bit signal. Generally, in a PLC system, the
analog input module measures current or voltage signals from an input device. These signals are
usually measured in the range of 0-20 mA(milliampere), 4-20 mA, 1-5 VDC (volts DC), 0-10
VDC, etc. This means that the connected input device provides signals with any intermittent
value between the initial to the final range (the two extreme limits), for the PLC’s analog input
module. Examples of Analog Input Devices in PLCs are Position/Displacement Sensors,
Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) Inputs and Thermocouple Input Devices.
Input Module and How it works

A PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) input module is a component that interfaces with
external devices to receive input signals and transmit them to the PLC's central processing unit
(CPU) for further processing. The input module plays a crucial role in the overall functioning of
a PLC system by converting signals from various sensors and switches into a format that the
PLC can understand.

1. Types of Input Modules:

1.1. Digital Input Modules: Handle binary signals, indicating either ON (1) or OFF (0)
states. These are commonly used for switches, push buttons, and limit switches.
1.2. Analog Input Modules: Handle continuous signals, such as voltage or current
levels, providing a range of values. Analog input modules are used for sensors
like temperature sensors, pressure transducers, and potentiometers.
2. Signal Compatibility:

Input modules are designed to be compatible with the types of signals generated by the
external devices they interface with. This includes accommodating different voltage
levels, current ranges, or signal types.

3. Signal Conditioning:

Some input modules incorporate signal conditioning circuits to ensure that the signals
received from external devices are accurate and reliable. Signal conditioning may involve
filtering, amplification, or other adjustments.

4. Connection to External Devices:

Input modules have terminals or connectors to which external devices are connected. The
wiring configuration and connection details are specified in the PLC's documentation.
 5. Compatibility with PLC Model:

Input modules are designed to be compatible with specific PLC models. The selection of
input modules depends on the PLC's requirements and the types of signals present in the
application.

6. LED Indicators:

Many input modules include LED indicators to provide visual feedback on the status of
individual input channels. This can aid in troubleshooting and diagnostics.

Here's how a typical PLC input module works:

1. Signal Reception:

● The input module receives signals from external devices, which can include sensors,
switches, limit switches, push buttons, and other input devices.

2. Signal Conditioning:

● The input module conditions the received signals to ensure compatibility with the PLC's
internal circuitry. This may involve amplifying weak signals, filtering out noise, or
converting analog signals to digital signals.

3. Signal Conversion:

● Analog input modules specifically convert analog signals (such as voltage or current
levels) into a digital format that the PLC can interpret. Digital input modules handle
signals that are already in a digital format.

4. Data Transmission:

● The processed and converted signals are transmitted to the PLC's central processing unit
(CPU) or input/output (I/O) processor.

5. Addressing:

● Each input module is assigned a unique address within the PLC's memory. The CPU uses
these addresses to identify the source of the input signals.
6. Data Processing:

● The PLC's CPU processes the incoming signals based on the program stored in its
memory. The program, typically written in ladder logic or another programming
language, defines the logic and control functions based on the input conditions.

7. Decision-Making:

● The CPU makes decisions based on the programmed logic and the current state of the
input signals. This may involve activating output devices, updating internal variables, or
triggering alarms based on the input conditions.

8. Output Activation:

● Based on the decisions made by the CPU, the PLC output modules are activated to
control external devices, such as motors, valves, or other components in the controlled
system.

9. Feedback and Monitoring:

● The PLC continually monitors the input signals for changes and updates its internal
variables accordingly. This feedback loop ensures that the PLC can respond dynamically
to changing conditions in the controlled process.

Type of Input Devices

Input devices are used to provide signals or information to the PLC, allowing it to monitor and
control external processes. PLCs are commonly used in industrial automation and control
systems.

1. Push Button:

Manual switches that provide a digital input when pressed or released. They are often used for
initiating specific functions or actions in a control system.

2. Limit Switches:

Switches that detect the presence, absence, or position of an object, often used in machinery to
indicate the limit of motion.
 3. Proximity Sensors:

Sensors that detect the presence or absence of an object without physical contact. Types include
inductive, capacitive, and photoelectric proximity sensors.

4. Pressure Sensors:

Sensors that measure pressure changes in a system, commonly used in industrial processes to
monitor and control pressure levels.

5. Temperature Sensors:

Sensors that measure temperature changes, crucial for monitoring and controlling processes
where temperature is a critical parameter.

6. Flow Sensors/Meters:

Devices that measure the flow rate of liquids or gases, providing information on the rate of
material transfer.

7. Level Sensors:

Sensors that detect the level of liquids or solids in a container, essential for monitoring and
controlling fluid levels.

8. Photoelectric Sensors:

Sensors that use light beams to detect the presence or absence of an object, commonly used in
material handling and conveyor systems.

9. RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) and Thermocouples:

Temperature sensors that provide input based on changes in resistance or voltage with
temperature.

10. Microswitches:

Small switches with a lever, activated by physical force or motion.

 11. Analog Sensors:

Devices that provide continuous analog signals, such as analog temperature sensors or
potentiometers. These signals can be converted to digital by analog input modules in the PLC.

12. HMI (Human-Machine Interface):

Touchscreens or panels that allow operators to interact with the PLC system directly, providing
both input and output functions.