powered by
Central Arizona College Back
Programmable Logic Controller Certificate
Semester Hours:  21
Effective Term: Fall 2015
 Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None


Program Description: The Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) Certificate provides opportunities for students to gain knowledge, skills, and understanding of the concepts and applications in the field of PLCs. This certificate has been developed in cooperation with automation industries. Students are prepared for employment in the service maintenance and related manufacturing fields as entry-level technicians. For those presently employed in the industry it provides an opportunity to upgrade skills.

Recommended Proficiencies: Basic understanding of electronics.

Course Requirements
Students must have an understanding of basic electronics.

Core Requirements (21)
ELC221 Control Devices (3)
ELC128 Introduction to Programmable Logic Controllers (3)
ELC228 Advanced Programmable Logic Controllers (3)
MET240 DeviceNet (3)
MET245 Variable Frequency Drives (3)
MET250 Factory Talk (3)
MET226 Electro-Mechanical Systems (3)

Students must earn a grade of "C" or better in all required courses.
Students must earn a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
Students must earn at least one-third of the certificate credits from CAC.
Program Measurable Student Learning Outcomes
1. (Application Level) Use critical thinking to problem solve automated manufacturing based problems.
2. (Synthesis Level) Create class projects to solve problems using a team approach and working in a safe, professional manner.
3. (Analysis Level) Analyze and solve problems using technical reference manuals and technical support materials.
4. (Application Level) Apply math/science computational concepts and principles to create problem solutions.
5. (Application Level) Use appropriate test and measuring instrumentation to define solutions to problems.
6. (Synthesis Level) Identify, integrate, analyze and create a ladder logic program to meet a specific need.
7. (Evaluation Level) Identify, analyze and evaluate the use of electrical laws and instruments for working with sensors.
8. (Evaluation Level) Identify, analyze and evaluate the components of a programmable logic controller (PLC) system.
9. (Synthesis Level) Write programs using logic symbols, timers, counters, math functions and sub routines.
10. (Evaluation Level) Identify, analyze and evaluate the operation of a Varialbe Frequency Drive (VFD).
11. (Evaluation Level) Identify, analyze and evaluate the operation of DeviceNet protocol.
Standards for Program
1.Demonstrate safe working techniques in industry work per OSHA standards. URL: http://www.osha.gov/