New to the PLC side of automation

[wjwill6]

My name is Wesley. I'm an instrument installer for a small E&I company in New Orleans. I'm wanting to learn about PLC's so I can advance further in my career. Any information on where would be the best place to start with PLC's would be a great help. Thanks, Wesley

[panic mode]

well, first of all you came to the right place. you should choose hardware and language (at least to start). since you are in USA, i'd say you should start with local brands which are likely to be most popular unless there is specific brand you guys use at work. if you ask me just get small plc and software, read manuals on how to wire things and go online and start programming. you can check articles and tutorials on this site and don't be afraid to ask questions. the only way to learn this is by doing it. emulators are ok to try things out while no hardware at hand but if you can go for real thing. as for language, ladder seam to be by far most dominant on this side of pond. other languages might be more efficient in particular areas but ladder rules when it comes to monitoring and debugging programs.

[TConnolly]

1) Download and study this book: http://forums.mrplc.com/index.php?autocom=downloads&showfile=156 2) Ask lots of questions here.