What You Need

Here we introduce the equipment needed to study PLC sequence control. Studying doesn't have to stop at just theory — with enough practice, it's entirely possible to design sequence control circuits as a side business. Reaching that level does require considerable experience, but the skills you gain can also be valuable when changing careers, whether as a side business or a full-time profession.

• PC (Computer)
• USB-to-Serial Converter
• Connection Cable
• Software
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

PC (Computer)

As long as it has good manufacturer support, most PC brands will work fine. However, since modern software can be demanding, avoid low-spec machines. Also, because you will often work directly in front of equipment at job sites, a laptop PC is essential. Personally, I use a gaming PC. I use a laptop at the job site and a desktop PC for work outside the field.
A 64-bit OS should generally be fine. However, some software does not support 64-bit, so please check the system requirements for the software you plan to use.

HP or DELL are generally reliable choices. They also allow OS downgrade options right after an OS version change.

[HP] Recommended Business Laptop Campaign

USB-to-Serial Converter

Modern PCs do not come with RS-232C ports as standard. To be honest, this port is rarely used outside of industrial work, but in this field it is still very much in use. It is needed for configuring devices other than PLCs. I recommend having at least one on hand.

Various manufacturers sell these, but some products may have compatibility issues and fail to connect. I use the one listed below, and so far it has connected successfully to various devices without any issues.

Manufacturer: iBUFFALO
Model: SRC06-USB

Connection Cable

This is required when connecting to older PLC models without a USB port, such as Mitsubishi's A-series. The necessity depends on your type of work — if you are building new equipment from scratch, you likely won't need it. However, if your work involves modifying older equipment or maintenance, it is a must-have. I own one set myself, but rarely use it.

Manufacturer: TAM
Model: TAM-RSCVC-3V

For connecting to FX series:
Model: TAM-RSCVC-A0

For a connection diagram, refer to Connecting to the PLC.

The manufacturer's website is TAM.

This is an expensive cable. It is not needed if you only connect via USB.

Software

You cannot get started without software. It is quite expensive, so make the most of your investment by studying diligently and working to recover the cost.

Mitsubishi Programming Software GX Works2 (SW1DNC-GXW2-J)
¥93,500 (tax included)

Practice PLC (for Learning)

If you can get your hands on a real PLC, learning while actually operating it will speed up your understanding significantly. That said, modern software includes a simulator function, so if you just want to check program behavior, you can create a virtual PLC on your computer using the simulator without needing real hardware. However, since you cannot do actual wiring with a simulator, a real PLC is still needed if you want to practice wiring.
Additionally, if you have GT Designer3 (Mitsubishi's touch panel editing software), a kit (digital data) is available for sale that lets you learn full-scale ladder diagram programming. Of course, this kit does not support actual wiring either. Hands-On Ladder Learning Kit

Control Target (Machine to Control)

Once you understand the programming, you'll want to actually operate real machinery. Set up a simple control kit and try running it.

Skills Test Practice Panel

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Bundle Purchase

There is a cost-effective bundle that includes both software and a PLC.

Mitsubishi GX Works2 + PLC (FX3S-30MR) Bundle Set
¥121,000 (tax included)

Comment: A great-value bundle combining the Mitsubishi PLC (FX3S-30MR) with the programming software (GX Works2).

The "Introduction to Sequence Control and Circuit Diagrams" is available as a Kindle edition (e-book). If you prefer a paperback, please select the paperback format, or purchase from the top page.