What foundation is needed to learn PLC?
With the rapid development of industrial automation, PLC (programmable logic controller) has become one of the core technologies in the field of industrial control. Many engineers and technicians hope to learn PLC to enhance their career competitiveness. So, what foundations are needed to learn PLC? This article will give you a detailed analysis based on the hot topics and hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days.
1. Basic knowledge of PLC learning

Learning PLC requires certain basic knowledge. The following are the key points:
| basic areas | Specific content |
|---|---|
| Electrical basics | Understand circuit principles and the working principles of electrical components such as relays, contactors, and sensors. |
| computer basics | Master basic computer operations and be familiar with binary, hexadecimal and other number system conversions. |
| Automation concept | Understand the basic architecture of industrial automation systems, such as PID control, HMI, etc. |
| programming thinking | Have logical thinking ability and be familiar with programming methods such as flow charts and ladder diagrams. |
2. Recommended popular PLC learning resources
According to the hot spots on the entire network in the past 10 days, the following resources have attracted much attention:
| Resource type | Recommended content |
|---|---|
| Online courses | PLC introductory tutorials on Bilibili and MOOC, and special PLC courses for Siemens and Mitsubishi. |
| books | "PLC Programming from Beginner to Master" and "Siemens S7-1200/1500 Programming Practice". |
| Practical Tools | Simulation software (such as TIA Portal, GX Works2), experimental suite (such as Arduino PLC). |
| community forum | Zhihu, CSDN's PLC technology discussion forum, and Industrial Control Network's technical exchange section. |
3. Steps and methods of learning PLC
The following are the steps to learn PLC efficiently:
| steps | Specific methods |
|---|---|
| 1. Theoretical study | Master the basic principles of PLC and programming languages (such as ladder diagram, ST language) through books and courses. |
| 2. Software operation | Install PLC programming software, learn to write simple programs and simulate and debug. |
| 3. Hardware practice | Purchase PLC experimental equipment or development boards for actual wiring and program download testing. |
| 4. Project actual combat | Participate in small automation projects, such as assembly line control, motor speed regulation, etc. |
4. Answers to frequently asked questions (based on recent hot topics)
The following are PLC learning issues that have been hotly discussed by netizens in the past 10 days:
| question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I learn PLC if I'm not good at math? | PLC programming mainly relies on logical thinking and does not require high mathematics, but it requires mastering basic number system conversion. |
| Which PLC brand to choose? | Siemens, Mitsubishi, and Omron are the mainstream brands. Beginners are advised to start with the Siemens S7-200/1200. |
| How long does it take to learn PLC? | The basic content can be mastered in 1-3 months, but practical experience requires long-term accumulation. |
5. Summary
Learning PLC requires electrician, computer and automation foundation, but more importantly, practice and persistence. Gradually improve your skills through systematic study of theory, operating software and hardware practice. Recently popular resources such as Bilibili courses, simulation software and community discussions can accelerate the learning process. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, a solid foundation and consistent practice are the keys to success.
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