2.3: Hands-on Activity
Overview
Students download a 15-day free trial of PLC Ladder (located at PLCtrainer.net or LogicsPro). They install the software and explore its options to understand how PLC works; packet capture – protocol and transit across the network; and how to program the PLC.
Hands-on Activity Objectives
- Describe the purpose and use of SCADA, DCS, and PCS systems.
- Describe the configuration and use of field devices used to measure critical infrastructure processes, such as flow rate, pressure, temperature, level, density, etc.
- Provide examples of HMI screens and displays used within SCADA systems.
- Describe the use and application of PLCs in automation.
Lab Assignment
Use PLC Simulator to explore relay logic
- Install the LogixPro 500 PLC simulator on a Windows VM. It can be used with a 15-day free trial (available from The Learning Pit ).
- Launch the LogixPro simulator.
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Click on the “Help” drop-down menu and select “Student Exercises.” The following web page will open.
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Under the “Student RSLogix Programming Exercises” section, select the “Relay Logic …. Introductory Exercise” option. The following web page will open.
- Complete the “LogixPro Relay Logic Introductory Lab” exercise following these instructions. You can use the printed handout instead if preferred.
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Under the “Student RSLogix Programming Exercises” section, select the “Door Simulation …. Applying Relay Logic” option. The following web page will open.
- Complete the “LogixPro Door Simulation Lab” exercise following these instructions. You can use the printed handout instead if preferred.
- Under the “Student RSLogix Programming Exercises” section, select the “Silo Simulator …. Applying Relay Logic to a Process” option. The following web page will open.
- Complete the “LogixPro Silo Lab” exercise following these instructions. You can use the printed handout instead if preferred.
Grade Points: 100
This lab was developed by CSEC, the Cyber Security Education Consortium, an Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program funded by the National Science Foundation.