Day 1 lays the groundwork for working with Allen-Bradley PLCs and the RSLogix/Studio 5000. It’s designed to equip you with the essential knowledge you need to work confidently with industrial automation systems.

Key topics and skills covered include:

• Introduction to Allen-Bradley Hardware
  • Overview of Allen-Bradley PLC hardware, including CPUs, power supplies, memory cards, and input/output cards.
  • Tips for selecting the right PLC model and using Allen-Bradley part numbers effectively.

• Getting Started with RSLinx and RSLogix/Studio 5000
  • Handling ethernet and serial communications between your PLC and computer with RSLinx
  • Navigating the RSLogix/Studio 5000 interface and creating your first project.
  • Setting up hardware configurations and communication between devices.
  • Safely downloading programs to the PLC to avoid production disruptions.

• Practical Programming
  • Creating basic programming routines.
  • Organising your projects with labels and comments for better clarity.
  • Learning about downloading to the PLC and online editing and understanding the associated risks.

• Understand Common PLC Instructions
  • Using timers and counters effectively for various industrial applications.
  • Incorporating Move instructions for precise data handling.
  • Using Allen-Bradley bit logic instructions, including One Shot Pulse (Rising and Falling), for event-driven control.
  • Implementing Latch and Unlatch instructions cautiously to prevent misfires in the system.

• Handling Program Backups and Uploads
  • Discovering how to handle program backups once we have them in our systems.
  • Understanding uploading from the PLC and the dangers of doing so when working on live systems.

Through a mix of foundational knowledge and hands-on practice, you’ll finish the first day with the confidence to start working in the RSLogix/Studio 5000 software package, equipped with the knowledge and skills of the most commonly used PLC instructions to help us know what we are looking at when troubleshooting programs.

Day 2 builds upon your programming foundation, focusing on the implementation of advanced techniques to elevate your skill set. Through practical exercises and detailed insights, you’ll learn how to troubleshoot software and hardware failures.

Key topics and skills covered include:

• Structuring Data and Logic
  • Understanding and working with structured data using Allen-Bradley Global and Local Tags.
  • Developing Add-on Instructions for structuring programs and consistent programming and troubleshooting
  • Understanding the different interrupts used in Allen-Bradley programs and why we use them.
  • Explore the use of logic instructions for efficient control system implementation.

• Troubleshooting Techniques
  • Using Cross-references to help navigate and troubleshoot with large PLC programs.
  • 50:50 split-testing to assist in locating failures within an input or output device.
  • Understanding Cross-references within RSLogix/Studio 5000 allow us to identify available and used addressing.
  • Working with Diagnostics to locate faults within the hardware and software of the Allen-Bradley PLC.
  • Creating System and Clock Memory for use when removing signals or control routines in programs.

• Adopting Robust Testing Practices
  • Enhancing your approach to online editing while avoiding common pitfalls.
  • Verifying program changes to ensure seamless integration into live systems.
  • Understanding the dangers associated with modifying and forcing IO signals.

• Fault Management and Hardware Replacement
  • Identifying different types of CPU faults and resolving them effectively.
  • Replacing PLC batteries correctly on the shop floor.
  • Safely replacing faulty input/output cards and CPUs, including on live PLC systems.
  • Understanding the dangers of erratic signalling and strategies to mitigate risks.

By the end of Day 2, you’ll have acquired the expertise to troubleshoot Allen Bradley PLCs using the tools available to you inside the RSLogix/Studio 5000 software package and you’ll have a solid understanding of how to handle hardware failures within the PLC. You’ll leave the course equipped to resolve critical issues and confidently handle live industrial environments.

We offer weekly courses at our training centres in Gateshead and Alderley Park. Demand is high, so we advise booking your place at least two months in advance to secure your spot.

Absolutely! Our courses are open to everyone, whether you’re sponsored by a company or joining as an individual. They’re especially popular with people looking to switch careers or enhance their CV with new skills.

When you join one of our training courses, you’ll have your own dedicated training station complete with a computer, PLC programming software, and a SCADA system.

You’ll also receive a Scantime workbook to track your progress throughout the course. This detailed resource is yours to keep, making it an excellent reference tool long after training is complete.

Yes, the course includes two assessments, one for each module, designed to ensure you’ve understood the material. You’ll receive your results on the same day after completing each assessment.

Pass Marks and Points Available:

• Pass Mark: 210
• Points Available: 300

Absolutely. We’ll give you a City & Guilds certificate, and a digital credential when you successfully complete any of our IMFFP® course modules.