Development of virtual machine for Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) by using STEPS™ programming method

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is widely used in manufacturing industries for automation and became one of the essential subjects in the university. Learning theory in class alone is not enough to acquire the knowledge of PLC. Therefore in this paper a PLC Integrated Development Environment (IDE) tool suit is developed to assist students' learning in the class. It consists of ladder diagram editor, simulator and compiler. It also provides an interactive learning in class as well as hand-on activities for laboratories. This software package is developed using Object Oriented Programming (OOP) language Visual Basic 6 to create a virtual microcontroller environment in simulation process.