Reconfiguring Programmable Logic Control Systems

The selected PLC should be operational in respect of the receiving and posting of data to control process plant. The PLC and integrated power and communications cards should be of a similar complexity to the one show (Alan Bradley). The Examiner must also provide a suitable means of communication to the PLC via the Communications Port. This normally comprises of a software program loaded onto a PC or Laptop. Suitably authorised Usernames and Passwords will be required for access and upload.

The Examiner should make available a range of Communication Cables that the Candidate will be required to select the appropriate one for the application.

The Examiner should make available the appropriate Ladder Logic Drawings/Data.

The Examiner should make available to the Candidates a copy of a selection of PLC vendor manuals from which the candidate will need to select the appropriate one for dealing with any issues they find during the configuration and upload.

Technical Assessment – To apply a new value to a selected “alarm point” in a live PLC, uploading the new configuration to the online programme and backing up the new programme configuration in line with vendor procedures. The Examiner will provide the candidate with the tag number of the “alarm point” and value of the new alarm setting.

Objective - To ensure a candidate has working skills, knowledge and ability to reconfigure and back up a live PLC. The candidate will have to locate and change the “alarm value” using vendor data sheets and ladder logic drawings. Once the new value is configured the candidate must upload the new programme and back up following vendor procedures. The candidate must also demonstrate that they can work safely throughout the work scope.

Technical Assessment Requirements

Range of screwdrivers (flat, crosshead and Phillips)
Range of Allen keys (Metric & Imperial)
Anti-Static Strap Wrench
Communication Station loaded with compatible PLC Interrogation Software.
PLC Software and Configuration Vendor Manuals
Comms Leads
Security Dongle (if required) and/or security passwords
PLC Ladder Logic Drawings
Personal Protective Equipment
Examiner instructions
Personal Protective Equipment
Examiner instructions
Model Answer Sheet
Candidate instructions
Candidate Question Paper
Examiner Results Report

The candidate must carry out the work on a live and functional PLC.

The candidate is expected to complete the test, being observed using the correct tools, equipment and ladder logic data as well as following safe working practices to achieve a „PASS‟. Where the candidate does not achieve the set criteria this is recorded as „REFERRED‟ and a brief note recorded on the criteria not met in the test activity.

The candidate must record a PASS in all practical test sections and score a minimum of 80% in the multiple choice section.