This document provides an overview of programmable logic controllers (PLCs). It begins with a brief history of PLCs, noting they were developed in the 1970s as an alternative to hard-wired control systems. The document then discusses different types of control systems that preceded PLCs, including manual, relay-based, and electronic controls. It proceeds to explain key aspects of PLCs such as hardware components, characteristics, functions, operation, programming, applications, and advantages/disadvantages over other control systems. In particular, it outlines how PLCs can be programmed to perform logic, analog, closed-loop, counting, timing, and network communication functions to automate industrial processes.