Kickstart PLC Programming

Your Fast-Track Guide to PLCs, SCADA, and Smart Control.

Key Features

● Learn core IEC 61131-3 PLC languages like Ladder, ST, and FBD in depth.
● Design scalable control systems with reusable, modular logic.
● Integrate PLCs with HMI, SCADA, and modern industrial networks.

Book Description

Embark on a structured, hands-on journey into the world of PLC Programming and Machine Automation. This comprehensive guide takes you from the fundamentals of IEC 61131-3 programming languages, ​​such as Ladder Logic, Structured Text, and Function Blocks to the advanced techniques required to build reliable and scalable automation systems.

Start by understanding how software environments interact with PLC hardware, and the field devices they control. Explore the inner workings of industrial networks, the role of standardization in system design, and how to ensure seamless communication and interoperability using protocols, such as Modbus, Profinet, and OPCs.

As the chapters progress, you will gain practical insights into modular software design, integration with HMI and SCADA systems, and how to architect automation projects for small machines as well as complex processes. You will also learn how to future-proof your solutions through robust network topologies, version control practices, and building a solid foundation for modern, connected, and intelligent industrial control systems.

What you will learn

● Master the intricacies of PLC programming with IEC 61131-3 standards.
● Effectively structure control logic, using Ladder, ST, and FBD languages.
● Establish robust communication with field devices and remote systems.
● Integrate PLCs seamlessly with HMI, SCADA, and industrial protocols.
● Develop modular and scalable control architectures for complex processes.
● Perfect the design of standardized, maintainable, and optimized PLC software.
● Understand how emerging technologies like IIoT and AI connect with PLCs.

Who is this book for?

This book is meticulously tailored for automation engineers, control system developers, electrical technicians, and IT professionals looking to expand their expertise in PLC programming. So, whether you are a beginner exploring industrial automation or a seasoned professional seeking to modernize your skills, this guide offers a practical, in-depth resource. It is especially invaluable for those working with SCADA, HMI systems, and industrial networks, aiming to build scalable, maintainable, and future-ready control solutions!

1. Introduction to PLCs
2. Industrial Networks
3. Programming Languages for PLCs
4. Tasks, Routines, Control Blocks, and Function Blocks
5. Reusable Functions
6. Human-Machine Interface: Visualization and Control
7. Controlling Different Kinds of Motors
8. System Integration within the PLC
9. SCADA
10. Industry 4.0 and PLCs
Index

Henrique Morata is a seasoned industrial and logistics automation specialist with over 13 years of hands-on experience in PLC programming, industrial networking, and systems integration. He began his technical education in industrial automation in 2010, and entered the professional field in 2011, working for a systems integrator, serving major clients in the food, automotive, and sanitation sectors. Early in his career, he gained solid experience in field commissioning, network configuration  and electrical drive systems, building a strong foundation across electrical, mechanical, and logical layers of automation systems.

Throughout his career, Henrique has led large-scale projects for companies, such as Cargill, Kimberly-Clark, Bimbo, Takeda, and Saint Gobain, managing every phase from technical design to commissioning and final acceptance. He specializes in PLC programming with Siemens and Rockwell platforms (TIA Portal, Studio5000, Simatic Manager), HMI/SCADA integration, and industrial communication protocols, such as Profibus, Profinet, Modbus, and Ethernet-based systems.

Between 2016 and 2020, Henrique delivered PLC programming training for professionals and provided technical support to industries, diagnosing faults and performing advanced network analysis.

About the Technical Reviewer

David Obot Umoekah has 11 years of experience in engineering and programming PLC/SCADA-based process automation applications (most especially SIEMENS based PLCs). Over the last few years, he has partnered with electrical cabinet manufacturers to design the best PLC automated solutions tailored to client specification and process demands. The affinity for the industry of automation has afforded David the opportunity to travel the world, coming across multiple fun challenges, in the field, as a PLC/SCADA engineer.

David currently works independently as a PLC/SCADA automation engineer in the cake filtration industry for one of the sector’s leading companies with over 1200 filtration applications installed worldwide. He is passionate about traveling the world to lend technical support, helping clients maintain and optimize filtration applications (or other PLC automated application) using the latest automation solutions.