Testing and Start-Up of Programmable Controller Systems

Testing of a programmable controller system before shipment to the field can save money and time during checkout and start-up of a project. A method of testing a programmable-controller system that checks the designed system for logic operation, equipment problems, design errors, and programmable controller wiring errors is described. The testing program also provides an early opportunity to determine if the system meets the plant operational requirements. Comparisons are made between actual systems that were tested and systems that were not tested before installation in the field. A step-by-step example is provided that illustrates the test method.