QUESTION 1 a) b) c) d) Outline the differences between a Programmable Logic Controller and a personal computer.

[3] Provide a diagram that shows the internal architecture of a PLC. Explain briefly why a PLC do a self check every time it is turned on.[2] A ladder logic diagram is shown in figure 1 below. [5]

Figure 1

Explain what is wrong with this diagram and hence what will happen if it is used.[5] e) Some PLCs remove memory when a battery is removed. Explain why. Question 2 Given a system that is described by the following equation X = A + ( B.( A + C ) + C ) + A.B ( D + E ) a) Simplify the equation using Boolean algebra. b) Implement the original then the simplified equation with digital circuit. c) Implement the original then the simplified using ladder logic Question 3 a) Describe the basic steps of operation of a PLC after it is turned on. [8] b) How do input and output cards act as interface between the PLC and external devices [3] c) Given a clear plastic bottle, list three types of sensors that could be used to detect it. [3] [5]

d) Describe the difference between positive and negative edge triggered Question 4

[4]

Figure 2

The diagram in figure 2 shows a ladder logic program. a) Explain the purpose and operation of the ladder logic program. [4]

b) There are few basic types of memory used in PLCs today. State and explain each. [12] c) With the aid of a diagram, describe the difference between an event based device and an event based device. [4]

Question 5 a) Using a simple diagram, describe the principle of operation of a latch. [4]

b) There are two fundamental types of memory used in Allen-Bradley programmable Logic controllers. State and then explain each of these. [8] c) The diagram shown in figure 3 below is a ladder logic program for Allen-Bradley PLCs. Provide an equivalent instruction list program. [8]

Figure 3

Question 6
a) A ladder logic can be used to design a relay based controller that will allow three switches in a room to control a single light. There are two possible approaches to this problem. Provide the ladder logic programs that can be used for the each of the approaches. [8]

b). The diagram in figure 4 below is a ladder logic representation of a latch instruction.

Figure 4

Explain how the instruction operates.

[5]

c) Explain with the aid of a diagram the difference between an on delay timer and an off delay timer. [5] d) State and briefly describe the two basic counters that we have. Question 7 Consider the traffic lights in Figure 5. The normal sequences for traffic lights are a green light in one direction for a long period of time, typically 10 or more seconds. This is followed by a brief yellow light, typically 4 seconds. This is then followed by a similar light pattern in the other direction. It is understood that a green or yellow light in one direction implies a red light in the other direction. Pedestrian buttons are provided so that when pedestrians are present a cross walk light can be turned on and the duration of the green light increased. [2]

Figure 5

By first defining the inputs and outputs and describe the system variables, develop a programmable logic controller for this system. [20]

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