Modular Hardware, Open Source Software and Training Material for PLC Training

A low cost, open source, rugged, modular OpenPLC, based on ATmega16 microcontroller, has been developed for instructional purposes. Modularity permits flexible use of the OpenPLC. The open source software LDmicro, created for ladder logic operations, has been enhanced, and ported to Linux. A total of 27 Spoken Tutorials of about 10 minute duration each, suitable for self learning, are created for OpenPLC training. A pilot workshop is conducted for 16 teachers of polytechnic colleges using the Spoken Tutorials and the simulation capability of LDmicro. The feedback from the workshop is positive, and the method is suitable for a large scale training.