Automation and Robotics 20ME51I Week 3 Theory Notes.pdf

PLC Data communica on
WEEK: 03 Page 1
Data Communications
Data communications refers to the different ways that PLC microprocessor-based
systems talk to each other and to other devices. The two general types of communications links
that can be established between the PLC and other devices are point-to-point links and network
links.
Figure illustrates a point-to-point serial
communications link. Serial
communications is used with devices such
as printers, operator workstations, motor
drives, bar code readers, computers, or
another PLC. Serial communications
interfaces are either built into the processor
module or come as separate modules. A
serial module installed in each controller is
normally all that is required for two PLCs
of the same manufacturer to establish a
point-to-point link.
As control systems become more complex,
they require more effective
communications between the system
components. A local area network or LAN
is a system that interconnects data
communications components within a
limited geographical area, typically no
more than one or two miles. Essentially, a
LAN is a private, on-site communications
system that allows communication between
computers, PLCs, robots, and the like.

WEEK: 03 Page 2
Serial communication:
Serial communication is a method of transferring data between two devices by sending
it one bit at a time sequentially over a single communication line or channel. It is a common
method used for data exchange between various devices such as computers, PLC,
microcontrollers, and peripherals.
The most common types of serial communication protocols include (Recommended
standard RS-232, RS-485), UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), SPI (Serial
Peripheral Interface), and I2
C (Inter-Integrated Circuit-IIC).
Serial communication offers several advantages, including simplicity, cost-
effectiveness, and the ability to transmit data over long distances using appropriate protocols.
However, it is generally slower compared to parallel communication methods.
Parallel communication
Parallel communication is a method of transmitting multiple data bits simultaneously
over multiple wires or channels. Parallel communication allows for faster data transfer rates.
In parallel communication, each data bit is assigned to a separate wire or channel. This
means that multiple bits can be transmitted simultaneously, reducing the overall transmission
time. For example, in an 8-bit parallel communication system, eight wires are used, with each
wire carrying one bit of data. Parallel communication can be implemented using various
interfaces, such as parallel ports, parallel buses, or parallel interfaces on integrated circuits.

WEEK: 03 Page 3
However, parallel communication also has some limitations.
1. Maintaining the synchronization of the data transmitted over multiple wires.
2. Any differences in wire lengths or delays can cause timing issues and introduce errors
in the received data.
3. Another limitation is the increased complexity of hardware design and the larger
number of wires or channels required.

WEEK: 03 Page 4
ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) Functions
PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) ASCII functions are a set of instructions or
functions provided by a PLC programming environment that allow communication and data
exchange between the PLC and external devices using ASCII characters.
Some commonly used PLC ASCII functions are:
1. ASCII to Integer Conversion: This function converts ASCII characters representing
numeric values into their corresponding integer values. It is useful when receiving
numeric data from external devices in ASCII format.
2. Integer to ASCII Conversion: This function converts integer values into their
corresponding ASCII characters. It is useful when sending numeric data to external
devices that expect ASCII representation.
3. ASCII Character Comparison: This function compares two ASCII characters and
determines if they are equal, greater than, or less than each other. It is often used for
decision-making in PLC programs.
4. ASCII String Concatenation: This function combines multiple ASCII strings into a
single string. It is useful for constructing messages or commands to be sent to external
devices. Ex: string1 = "Hello, "
string2 = "world!"
concatenated_string = string1 + string2
Output:
Hello, world!
5. ASCII String Length: This function determines the length of an ASCII string, i.e., the
number of characters in the string. It is often used for validation and handling variable-
length input data. Ex: string = "Hello, world!"
Length= 13
6. ASCII to BCD (Binary Coded Decimal) Conversion: This function converts ASCII
characters representing decimal numbers into their BCD equivalents. It is useful when
working with BCD-based systems or when interfacing with devices that use BCD.
7. BCD toASCII Conversion: This function converts BCD values into their corresponding
ASCII characters. It is the reverse of the ASCII to BCD conversion and is used when
sending BCD data to external devices.

WEEK: 03 Page 5
Networking architecture
PLC networking architecture refers to the arrangement and configuration of PLC
devices in a networked environment. PLCs are industrial control systems used to automate
processes in manufacturing, industrial, and infrastructure settings.
1. Centralized PLC Architecture: In
this architecture, a central PLC or a
small number of PLCs are
responsible for controlling and
coordinating the entire system.
These PLCs are typically located in
a central control room or a control
panel.
2. Distributed PLC Architecture: In
this, multiple PLCs are distributed
throughout the system, each
responsible for controlling a
specific section or subsystem. These
PLCs are interconnected through a
network and communicate with
each other to coordinate system-
wide operations.
3. Redundant PLC Architecture: This
architecture aims to ensure system availability
and reliability by introducing backup or
redundant PLCs. Redundancy helps mitigate
the impact of failures, minimizing downtime
and improving system resilience. Redundant
PLCs work in parallel, monitoring each
other's status and taking over control if a
failure is detected in the primary PLC.

WEEK: 03 Page 6
OSI model of PLC networking
International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) has defined a seven-
layer standard protocol system known as
the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI)
model. The model is a framework for
developing a co-ordinated system of
standards. The layers are as outlined below.
1. Physical layer: This layer of the OSI model defines connector and interface
specifications, as well as the medium (cable) requirements. The layer moves the data in
the form of electromagnetic or optical signal across the transmission medium. It is
responsible for the movement of data from one node to next.
2. Data link layer: It provide reliable communication over the physical layer interface.
Layer 2 manages the ordering of bits, packets, to and from data segments. The ensuing
result is called frames. Data links are responsible for moving frames from one node to
another.
A data link layer Create and detect frame boundaries and detect an error and
produce an acknowledgement and retransmit the data. Its responsibility includes, Packet
addressing, Media access control, Format the frame used to encapsulate data, Error
notification on the Physical layer, Managing of error messaging specific to the delivery
of packets.

WEEK: 03 Page 7
3. Network layer: It is responsible for the delivery of individual packets from the source
host to destination host. It defines the most optimum path the packet should take from
the source to the destination. If the message is too large to be transmitted from one node
to another on the data link layer between those nodes, the network may implement
message delivery by splitting the message into several fragments at one node, sending
the fragments independently, and reassembling the fragments at another node.
4. Transport layer: Purpose of this layer is to provide a reliable mechanism for the
exchange of data between two processes in different computers. This layer transports
the data in a sequential manner with no loses.
Transport layer divides large messages into small packets so that easily transmitted.
Main functions of transport layer are - guarantee data delivery, flow control, error
detection and error recovery.
5. Session layer: Session layer provides a mechanism for controlling the dialogue between
the two end systems. It defines how to start, control and end conversations (called
sessions) between applications.
The Session layer utilizes the virtual circuits created by the Transport layer to establish
communication sessions. It establishes, terminates, and monitors communication
sessions between applications. Session layer is also responsible for terminating the
connection.

WEEK: 03 Page 8
6. Presentation layer: It defines the format of communication data is to exchange between
to system. And this layer is responsible for translation, Protocol conversion, Character
set conversion, Interpretation of graphics commands, compression, and encryption.
7. Application layer: Application layer contains management functions to support
distributed applications. Examples of application layer are applications such as file
transfer, electronic mail, remote login etc.

WEEK: 03 Page 9
TCP/IP Protocol: Introduction to IP Address, Subnet Mask, Networking Devices,
Network topology
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is a suite of communication
protocols that provide reliable and standardized data transmission over networks. It consists of
layers, including the Application layer, Transport layer, Internet layer, and Network interface
layer.
TCP/IP is composed of two main protocols:
1. Transmission Control Protocol (TCP):
a. TCP is a connection-oriented protocol, it establishes a consistent and ordered
data transmission channel between two devices before data exchange begins.
b. It breaks data into packets, which are sent over the network, and ensures that all
packets arrive correctly at their destination and in the correct order.
c. If any packets are lost or damaged during transmission, TCP automatically
requests retransmission.
2. Internet Protocol (IP):
a. IP is a connectionless protocol, responsible for routing packets of data across
interconnected networks to their planned destinations.
b. Each device on the network is assigned a unique IP address, which serves as its
identification.
c. IP packets contain the source and destination IP addresses, allowing routers to
forward the packets along the best path to reach the destination device.
d. IP packets are not guaranteed to arrive at their destination or to be received in
the correct order.

WEEK: 03 Page 10
TCP/IP operates on a layered model, consisting of four layers:
1. Application Layer: This includes application-specific protocols such as HTTP (for web
browsing), SMTP (for email), FTP (for file transfers), DNS (Domain name system is
the phonebook of the internet) and TELNET (Teletype network acts as a client-server
protocol).
2. Transport Layer: The transport layer is responsible for end-to-end communication and
provides error-free delivery of data. This layer can transport the data through a
connection-oriented or connectionless layer. Two protocols used in the transport layer
are User Datagram Protocol (UDP) and TCP.
UDP: This provides connectionless service and end-to-end delivery of
transmission. It is considered an unstable protocol because it discovers the
errors but does not specify them.
TCP: It provides all transport services to the application layer. TCP is a
dependable protocol for error detection and retransmission.
3. Internet Layer: This layer provides host addressing and chooses the best path to the
destination network. It maintains the quality of service and offers connectionless end-
to-end networking. The protocols in the network layer are:
IPV4: Internet protocol version 4 is employed for packetizing, forwarding, and
delivery of packets.
ICMPV4: Interrupt Control Message Protocol controls all errors. These
mistakes are handled by ICMP protocol during the delivery of the message.
IGMP: Internet group management protocol helps in multicasting.
4. Network interface layer: The Network Interface Layer, also known as the Link Layer
or Network Access Layer, is the lowest layer in the TCP/IP model. It deals with the
physical transmission of data across the network medium and is responsible for framing
data into frames, addressing devices using MAC (Media Access Control) addresses,
detecting, and correcting errors, and managing access to the physical medium. Ethernet,
Wi-Fi, PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol), and others are examples of technologies and
protocols operating at this layer.

WEEK: 03 Page 11
IPAddress
An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a numerical label assigned to each device
connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. IP
addresses serve two main purposes: Device identification and Location addressing. They allow
devices to communicate and exchange data with each other over the internet or any other IP-
based network.
IP addresses are usually written as four sets of numbers, separated by periods (dots).
Each set can have a value from 0 to 255. For example: 192.168.001.123
There are two versions of IP addresses in use:
IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4): This is the older and most widely used version of IP
addresses.
IPv4 addresses are 32-bit long and have a theoretical maximum of around 4.3 billion
unique addresses. However, due to the rapid growth of the internet and the increasing number
of connected devices, the availability of IPv4 addresses has become limited.

WEEK: 03 Page 12
IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6): IPv6 was introduced to overcome the limitations of
IPv4.
IPv6 addresses are 128-bit long and are written as eight groups of hexadecimal digits
separated by colons. This version offers an almost infinite number of unique addresses.
Subnet Mask:
A subnet mask is a 32-bit number
used in conjunction with an IP address to
divide an IP network into subnetworks
(subnets). It determines which part of the IP
address represents the network portion and
which part represents the host portion. The
subnet mask is typically expressed in the
same dot-decimal notation as an IP address.
For example, a subnet mask of
255.255.255.0 indicates that the first 24 bits
represent the network portion, and the last 8
bits represent the host portion.

WEEK: 03 Page 13
Networking Devices:
In PLCs, there are several networking devices that are commonly used to connect and
communicate with PLC systems. These devices enable communication between PLCs, human-
machine interfaces (HMIs), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and
other networked devices.
1. Computer (or network enabled equipment)
2. Network Interface Card - Network interface card or NIC is a piece of hardware, usually
a circuit board or chip, that is inserted into a computer (motherboard) to let it connect
to a network.
3. The Media - The physical network connection between network nodes.
 10baseT (twisted pair) is the most popular. It is a pair of twisted copper wires
terminated with an RJ-45 connector.
 10base2 (thin wire) is thin
shielded coaxial cable with
BNC connectors
 10baseF (fibre optic) is costly, but signal transmission and noise properties are
very good.

WEEK: 03 Page 14
4. Repeater in computer networks are
powerful network devices that are
used to regenerate signals when they
travel over a longer distance,
ensuring that the signal strength
remains constant.
5. Hub- A hub is a network device that
consists of multiple ports. Each port
can connect one device. Multiple
devices get connected to the hub
through these ports.
6. Router (Network Layer) - It
receives, analyses, and routers data
packets among computer networks
and devices. It works in the network
layer, the 3rd layer of the OSI
model.
7. Bridges (Data link layer) - A bridge
is a network device; it provides
interconnection with other
computer networks that use the
same protocol. It works in the data
link layer, which is the second
network layer in the OSI model.
8. Gateway (Application Layer) - A
gateway is a connecting device
(node) that can connect two
networks that employ different
transmission protocols.

WEEK: 03 Page 15
Network Topology:
Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices and
connections in a computer network.
Bus Topology: In a bus topology, all devices
are connected to a common communication
medium. Data is transmitted in both
directions along the cable.
Star Topology: In a star topology, each
device is directly connected to a central
device (like a switch or hub). All data traffic
passes through the central device.
Ring Topology: In a ring topology, devices
are connected in a closed loop. Each device
receives data from its preceding device and
forwards it to the next device.
Mesh Topology: In a mesh topology, each
device is connected to every other device in
the network. This provides multiple paths
for data transmission, increasing
redundancy and fault tolerance.
Tree Topology: In a tree topology, devices
are arranged in a hierarchical structure
resembling a tree. It consists of a root node
(usually a central device) that connects to
multiple intermediate nodes.

WEEK: 03 Page 16
Industrial Automation Communication Protocols - RS232-422-485 standards
Serial data communication is implemented using standard such as RS-232, RS-422, and
RS-485.
The RS in the standard’s name means recommended standard that specifies the
electrical, mechanical, and functional characteristics for serial communications. Serial
communication interfaces are either built into the processor module or come as a separate
communications interface module, as illustrated in Figure.
The simplest type of connection is the RS-232 serial port. The RS interfaces are used to
connect to devices such as vision systems, barcode readers, and operator terminals that must
transfer quantities of data at a reasonably high rate between the remote device and the PLC.
The RS-232 type of serial transmission is designed to communicate between one
computer and one controller and is usually limited to lengths up to 50 feet.
RS-422 and RS-485 serial transmission types are designed to communicate between
one computer and multiple controllers, have a high level of noise immunity, and are usually
limited to lengths of 650 feet (for RS-485) or 1650 feet (for RS-422).

WEEK: 03 Page 17
Network standards, Modbus, CAN bus, ControlNet, Ethernet, Profibus, FIP I/O, Static
and Dynamic Routing principle
The communication protocols with PLC is using to communicate with different
field devices, programming devices, other PLCs as well as controllers, HMIs, SCADAs,
etc. are called PLC communication protocols.
Following are some of the communication protocols used in Automation industries.
1. Modbus
2. CAN bus
3. ControlNet
4. Ethernet/IP
5. Profibus
6. FIP I/O
7. Static and Dynamic Routing principle
8. HART
9. DH-485
10. Foundation fieldbus etc

WEEK: 03 Page 18
1. Modbus: Modbus is a widely adopted serial communication protocol originally
developed by Modicon, used for connecting PLCs and other devices. The device
requesting the information is called the Modbus Master and the devices supplying
information are Modbus Slaves.
Figure shows an Omron PLC with
Modbus-RTU network
communication capabilities via RS-
232C and RS-485 serial ports
2. CAN bus is a robust and widely used serial communication protocol that allows devices
within a system to communicate with each other. It was originally developed by Robert
Bosch GmbH for use in automotive applications but has found applications in various
industries.
3. ControlNet: It is based on a Token-passing bus control network, high-speed,
deterministic (decisive) network primarily designed for real-time communication
between industrial devices. This network has a data transfer rate of 5 Mbps.

WEEK: 03 Page 19
4. EtherNet/IP: It is a widely used networking technology that allows devices to
communicate over a Local Area Network (LAN). This network has a data transfer rate
of ranging from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps
5. PROFIBUS: PROFIBUS (Process Field Bus) is a widely used fieldbus communication
protocol. It allows communication between various field devices, such as sensors,
actuators, and controllers, within a distributed control system.
PROFIBUS supports both RS-485 electrical interfaces (PROFIBUS DP-
decentralised periphery) and Fibre optics (PROFIBUS PA- process automation).
PROFIBUS DP typically operates at data rates of up to 12 Mbps over 1200 meters
distance, while PROFIBUS PA is designed for process automation and operates at
slower speeds.

WEEK: 03 Page 20
6. FIP I/O: FIP I/O stands for Field-Programmable Input/Output. It refers to a type of
electronic device or module that can be programmed or configured to interface with
different types of input and output signals in an industrial environment.
FIP I/O devices serve as a bridge
between the control system and the
external physical world. These devices
can handle various types of inputs, such
as digital signals, analog signals,
temperature sensors, pressure sensors,
and more. They can also provide outputs
to control actuators, motors, valves, and
other devices.
One of the key advantages of FIP I/O devices is their flexibility. They can be
programmed or configured to adapt to different system requirements and signal types,
allowing for easy integration into various industrial control applications.

WEEK: 03 Page 21
7. Static and Dynamic Routing principle: Static and dynamic routing are two different
principles used in network routing (directing) to determine the paths that data packets
take to reach their destinations.
Static Routing:
Static Routing is also known as
non-adaptive routing which does not
change the routing table unless the network
administrator changes or modifies them
manually. Static routing does not use
complex routing algorithms and it provides
high or more security than dynamic
routing.
Dynamic Routing:
Dynamic routing is also known as adaptive routing which changes the routing table
according to the change in topology. Dynamic routing uses complex routing algorithms and
it does not provide high security like static routing. When the network change(topology)
occurs, it sends the message to the router to ensure that changes then the routes are
recalculated for sending updated routing information.

WEEK: 03 Page 22
S. no Static Routing Dynamic Routing
1 Routes are user-defined.
Routes are updated according to
the topology.
2
Does not use complex routing
algorithms.
Uses complex routing
algorithms.
3 Provides high or more security. Provides less security.
4 Static routing is manual. Dynamic routing is automated.
5 Implemented in small networks. Implemented in large networks.
6 Additional resources are not required.
Additional resources are
required.
7
Failure of the link disrupts the
rerouting.
Failure of the link does not
interrupt the rerouting.
8 Less Bandwidth is required. More Bandwidth is required.
9 Difficult to configure. Easy to configure.

WEEK: 03 Page 23
8. HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer)
HART is an open master-slave communication protocol developed to communicate
with smart field devices. Smart field devices contain more information than the traditional
4 –20 mA signal. In addition, they carry out some functions that are/were originally
programmed within the PLC.
HART Protocol allows the simultaneous communication of the continuous 4 –20 mA
as well as a second digital communication path resting on top of the analog signal, but not
interfering. This allows access to the data of the field device and/or exact machine-readable
product description of the field devices including their data and functions. More
instrumentation devices are available with the HART protocol than with any other digital
communications technology.
The HART digital signal is superimposed onto the standard 4–20 mA signal, as
illustrated in Figure.
 The digital signal is made up of two frequencies, 1.2 and 2.2 kHz, representing bits
1 and 0 respectively.
 Sine waves of these two frequencies are superimposed onto the analog signal cables
to give simultaneous analog and digital communications.
 The DC and low-frequency current signals are modulated by the 1200 and 2200 Hz
frequencies; a technique known as frequency-shift keying or FSK.
 As the average value of the FSK signal is always zero there is no effect on the 4 –20
mA analogue signal.
 A minimum loop impedance of 230 ohms is required for communication.

WEEK: 03 Page 24
9. DH-485
The Allen-Bradley Data Highway networks, Data Highway Plus (DH+) and DH-
485, are proprietary communications networks. They use peer-to-peer communication
implementing token passing. The medium is shielded twisted pair cable. Figure 14-36 shows
the DH+ network connection for an SLC 5/04 controller. The three-pin Phoenix connector
is used to form the network transmission media.
10. Foundation fieldbus
Fieldbus is an open, serial, two-way communications system that interconnects
measurement and control equipment such as sensors, actuators, and controllers. At the base
level in the hierarchy of plant networks, it serves as a network for field devices used in
process control applications.

WEEK: 03 Page 25
Concepts of Wireless Networking
Wireless PLC networking involves the use of wireless communication technologies to
establish connections and enable data transfer between Programmable Logic Controllers
(PLCs) and other devices or systems in an industrial automation environment.
Various wireless standards can be used for PLC networking, including Wi-Fi (802.11),
Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, cellular networks (e.g., 3G, 4G, or 5G), and proprietary wireless
protocols.
1. Access Points: Access points are typically connected to a wired network and allow
wireless devices, such as PLCs or HMIs, to connect and communicate over the wireless
network.
2. Wireless Range and Signal Strength: The wireless range refers to the maximum distance
over which a wireless signal can effectively travel between devices. Signal strength is
an indicator of the quality and reliability of the wireless connection, often measured in
terms of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) or received signal strength indicator (RSSI).
3. Wireless Security: Wireless PLC networking requires robust security measures to
protect the communication and data integrity. Encryption protocols such as WPA2 (Wi-
Fi Protected Access or WPA3 provide secure data transmission over wireless networks.
4. Network Topologies: Wireless PLC networking can employ different network
topologies, such as point-to-point, point-to-multipoint, or mesh networks.
 In a point-to-point configuration, two devices communicate directly with each
other.
 In a point-to-multipoint configuration, multiple devices connect to a central
access point.
 Mesh networks involve multiple interconnected devices that can route data
between each other, enhancing network reliability and redundancy.
5. Interference and Reliability: Wireless networks may experience interference from other
wireless devices, electrical noise, or physical obstacles. It is crucial to analyze the
environment and select appropriate wireless frequencies and channels to minimize
interference and maximize reliability. Techniques like frequency hopping or using less
crowded wireless bands can help mitigate interference issues.
6. Network Management and Monitoring: Wireless PLC networks should be properly
managed and monitored to ensure their performance, security, and availability.

WEEK: 03 Page 26
Latest trends in PLC communication protocols. Fundamental Parts and Characteristics
of PLC communication Protocol, Peer to Peer (PLC to PLC) & PLC to PC
Communication protocols
The following are some of the latest trends in PLC (Programmable Logic
Controller) communication protocols.
1. OPC UA (Unified Architecture): OPC UA is a widely adopted communication
protocol in the industrial automation sector. It provides a secure and reliable means
of communication between PLCs and other devices.
2. MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport): MQTT is a lightweight publish-
subscribe messaging protocol that is gaining popularity in the industrial IoT
(Internet of Things). It enables efficient communication between PLCs and control
devices.
3. EtherCAT (Ethernet for Control Automation Technology): EtherCAT is a high-
performance Ethernet-based fieldbus system. It provides fast and deterministic data
transfer, making it suitable for demanding applications.
4. PROFINET (Process Field Network): PROFINET is an open Industrial Ethernet
standard commonly used in automation systems. It supports real-time
communication, enabling PLCs to exchange data with other devices, such as drives,
sensors, and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) devices. PROFINET also supports
integration with higher-level systems, such as MES (Manufacturing Execution
Systems) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems.
5. TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking): TSN is an emerging technology that aims to
provide deterministic communication over standard Ethernet networks.
6. Wireless Communication Protocols: With the increasing adoption of wireless
technologies in industrial automation, various wireless communication protocols
are being used to connect PLCs and other devices. These protocols include Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth, Zigbee, and cellular communication (e.g., 4G LTE, 5G) for remote
monitoring and control applications.

WEEK: 03 Page 27
Peer-to-Peer (PLC to PLC) Communication and PLC to PC Communication:
There are various communication protocols used in the industry, but we shall focus on
two common protocols: Peer-to-Peer (PLC to PLC) communication and PLC to PC
communication.
Peer-to-Peer (PLC to PLC) Communication:
Peer-to-Peer communication
allows two or more PLCs to exchange
data and coordinate their actions
without the need for a central
controller.
1. Data Exchange: PLCs can exchange data such as inputs, outputs, memory registers,
or status information.
2. Messaging: PLCs use a messaging system to send and receive data. Messages may
contain specific data values, commands, or requests for information. The format and
structure of these messages are defined by the protocol being used.
3. Addressing: Each PLC has a unique address or identifier within the network,
allowing other PLCs to identify and establish communication with it.
4. Synchronization: PLCs can synchronize their actions based on predefined
conditions or triggers. For example, one PLC may send a command to another PLC
to initiate a specific action, such as starting or stopping a motor.
5. Error Handling: Peer-to-Peer communication protocols include mechanisms for
error detection and handling. Error checking, acknowledgment mechanisms, and
retry strategies are typically implemented to ensure reliable data exchange.

WEEK: 03 Page 28
PLC to PC Communication:
PLC to PC communication enables data exchange between a PLC and a personal
computer. This type of communication is often used for monitoring and controlling
industrial processes from a PC. The fundamental parts and characteristics of this
communication protocol include:
1. Communication Interface: A communication interface, such as a serial port (RS-
232/RS-485) or an Ethernet connection, is used to establish the physical connection
between the PLC and PC.
2. Protocol Selection: Various protocols, such as Modbus, Ethernet/IP, or OPC (OLE for
Process Control), can be used for PLC to PC communication. The protocol determines
the format, rules, and procedures for data exchange.
3. Data Read/Write: The PC can read data from or write data to the PLC's memory
registers, input/output points, or other relevant areas. This allows the PC to monitor
process variables, send commands, or modify PLC program parameters.
4. Real-Time Data: PLC to PC communication can provide real-time data exchange,
allowing the PC to receive and display live data from the PLC. This is particularly
useful for process monitoring, data logging, and visualization purposes.
5. Programming Interfaces: Software libraries or APIs (Application Programming
Interfaces) are often provided to facilitate the development of PC applications that
communicate with the PLC. These interfaces provide functions and methods for data
exchange, error handling, and device configuration.

Automation and Robotics 20ME51I Week 3 Theory Notes.pdf

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