Exploring the IEC 61131-3 standard
Most of the major PLC brands follow what is known as the IEC 61131-3 standard. The standard is designed to add programming uniformity across all the brands that utilize the standard. The standard provides uniformity for the following:
- Syntax
- Base keywords
- Language semantics
In other words, when utilizing a PLC that is compliant with the standard, one can expect a similar programming experience when programming any device that follows the standard. This means that a programmer will not have to worry about learning a different PLC language, as the core commands and grammar will be the same. Currently, the IEC 61131-3 standard provides programming protocols for the following PLC languages:
- Ladder Logic
- Structured Text
- Instruction List
- Sequential Function Chart
- Function Block Diagram
Depending on who you speak with, learn from, or work with, the names in the preceding list may differ. For example,...
