Tag: Programmable Logic Controller

DirectLogic 405: What You Need to Know

Close-up of a DirectLogic CPU. The DL405 D4-450 CPU is one of several CPUs in AX Control stock.
The DirectLogic D4-450 CPU

The DirectLogic 405 from Koyo is a modular controller with built-in PID instruction. End-users can add a number of different I/O modules to this low-cost controller to create configurations that meet their particular needs.

The DirectLogic 405 offers up to 3,500 local or distributed individual remote I/O points. The I/O and specific PID (proportional integral derivative control) allows command of processes like position, velocity, and temperature. One of our earlier blogs talks more about PID.

DirectLogic 405 Features

As a modular PLC, the DirectLogic 405 uses specialty and expansion modules to complete the system. This includes modules like

  • High-Speed Counters
  • PID Modules
  • SDS Modules
  • Input Simulators
  • 4-loop Temperature Controller
  • Filler Modules
  • Interrupt Modules
  • Relay Output Modules
  • Analog Modules

The DirectLogic 405 PLC offers three CPU modules. This includes the DL430, the DL440, and the DL450. All units offer built-in power supplies and communication ports. They have built-in diagnostics, significant program memory, and a substantial instruction set. However, the CPUs vary in initialization speeds, time required to read input status, and communication request speeds. Also, I/O support may change between modules. Additionally, the DL450 has drum timers and built-in PID loops, along with extra communication ports.

DirectLogic PLC: Uses

The DirectLogic PLC supports 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-5 V, 0-10 V, 1-5 V, +/-5 V, and +/-10 V. As a low-cost controller with a wide number of application options, the DL405 is popular for many applications. It is widely used in industrial applications where data communications or RTD/thermocouple inputs are required.

A DirectLogic 405 CPU. Close-up of a DL405 D4-430.
The DirectLogic D4-430 CPU

DL405 Port Comparison

The DL450 offers more network ports than the DL430 or DL440. In comparison, the DL450 includes two network ports. These can serve as ModBus masters or slaves, or as DirectNET masters or slaves.

The DL430 and the DL440 have two built-in communication ports. Meanwhile, the DL450 has four.

Other DirectLogic 405 FAQs

At AX Control we field many questions about our DL405 inventory. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Do DL405 PLCS offer Ethernet capability? Yes. Order an H4-Ecom Module if you require Ethernet.

What about Modbus protocol? If you have a DL430 or DL440 CPU, you will need a F4-MAS-MB master or a F4-SLV-MB slave module for Modbus. However, a DL450 CPU can support Modbus on port 1 or port 3.

Can the DL405 reset to factory defaults? Yes, it can. We can help with this. If you are resetting equipment in your possession, we suggest referring to directions in the DL405 manual for taking the CPU back to factory defaults.

Can AX Control provide PLC training or PLC programming manuals for DL405 products? Our staff is always happy to help our customers with whatever information we have at our disposal.

A DirectLogic 405 CPU. Close-up of a DL405 D4-440DC-1
The DirectLogic D4-440DC-1 CPU

Our staff is always ready to help with any Automation Direct components you may need. Talk to us today.

What is a Programmable Logic Controller?

A useful Infographic covering some of the most-asked questions about PLCs.

FAQs, and an Infographic you can use.

How does a programmable logic controller work?

A PLC works like a computer. The CPU manipulates and processes input signals and executes instructions to control output devices.  These are the controllers behind most modern industrial automation.

What are programmable logic controllers used for?

PLCs are used in industrial settings for the control of light fixtures, machinery, and assembly lines. They are also used to control other things such as amusement park rides. 

Programmable Logic Controller Infographic
Download a high-quality PDF of this infographic below.
Programmable-Logic-Controller-BasicsDownload

Are there different types of PLCs?

Yes. There are Relay Output PLCs, Transistor Output PLCs, and Triac Output PLCs.  The name of each type of PLC derives from its output. Relay outputs are solid-state outputs or mechanical contacts. Transistor outputs are solid-state switches, but can only handle DC current. Low-power AC loads use Triac outputs. This includes motor starters and lighting.

Mechanical design is another way to categorize PLCs. For example, a “brick” is one type of PLC design. This is a small PLC that includes the CPU, the power supply, and the inputs/outputs in one small case. One type of brick PLC is the DirectLogic 05.

An example of a Brick PLC.
A Direct Logic D0-05DA is a type of Brick PLC.

Other PLCs are modular. Modular PLCs have a rack system that has space for different modules. These modules can provide different functions and may act as the PLC’s power supply, I/O, communication interface, or processor.

An example of a modular PLC
The Automation Direct DirectLogic 405 is an example of a modular PLC.

How are PLCs programmed?

PLCs use a traditional programming language that mimics circuit diagrams; this is called ladder logic. Other PLCs may use programming languages like Function Block Diagram (FBD), Instruction List (IL), Sequential Function Chart (SFC), or Structured Text (ST). IEC 61131–3 standard defines these languages.  

What are the advantages of using a PLC?

There are several. PLCs are easy to install, maintain, and troubleshoot. They are flexible by nature and offer many different operations. Also, they offer a rugged design specifically for industrial processes. Finally, they’re cost-effective. 

Are There Disadvantages to PLCs?

The most common disadvantage to PLCs stems from interoperability or lack thereof.

Originally, manufacturers created PLCs using their own proprietary software and programming. When machines did their own thing, separated from the rest of the machinery on the factory floor, that was fine.

But now we have IIoT efficiencies to think about. Machines need to “talk” to each other and share information. Unfortunately, older PLC design doesn’t allow this.

Luckily, industry groups are now working to solve this problem through new forms of open-access middleware like MQTT, AMQP, and CoAP.

If you need a PLC for your industrial processes, talk to the staff at AX Control today. We’re here to help! We offer many brands of PLC systems and replacement parts, including the popular GE Fanuc PLCs.