Tools Required for PLC Programmer to Carry at Site

Whenever a PLC programmer visits a site for commissioning or for some service call, he must know what tools he must have with him before beginning work. This is because most of the sites are very remote and not all materials will be easily accessible if forgotten to be taken along. So, if he takes proper care and takes the necessary materials along with him, then he can get his work done easily.

There is generally a lot of confusion when programmers read the to-do list; so, I thought to mention it simply so that they can grasp it quickly.

PLC Programmer Tools

The main tools required for a PLC programmer are mentioned below.

1. Laptop with PLC Software Installed
2. USB to PLC Interface Cables
3. Ethernet Cables
4. Screwdriver Set
5. Electrical Test Meters (Multimeter)
6. Wire Strippers
7. Wire Cutters
8. Terminal Block Screwdriver
9. Electrical Tape
10. Portable Hard Drive or USB Flash Drive
11. RJ45 Crimping Tool
12. Serial Converters (RS232 to USB, etc.)
13. IP Configuration Tools (optional)
14. Label Maker for Tagging Wires
15. Industrial Ethernet Switch
16. Loop Calibrator for Analog Signals
17. Insulated Pliers
18. Notebook and Pen for Documentation
19. Portable Printer for On-Site Labels
20. Anti-static Wrist Strap

Note: The tools required can vary depending on the specific PLC brand, model, and the nature of the site work. Always ensure to also carry the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).

In this post, we will see the tools required for a PLC programmer to carry at the site.

Proper Laptop

This is the first and foremost basic requirement. A poor laptop with a broken screen/hardware or slow RAM performance or low in memory can hamper the work of the programmer badly. All the pre-requisite software must be present in the laptop, which the programmer has used of.

Any incorrectly installed software can break down his work in a very bad way. All his communication ports must function properly. The laptop charger must be proper. Apart from this, the network adapters like Wi-Fi must be functioning properly.

Programming Cables

When a PLC programmer goes to the site, he is basically going to connect to some automation device. For that, all the pre-requisite programming cables must be present along with him. He must check these cables at the office before going to the site.

For example, if a PLC has a USB port, LAN port, and RS485 port, then he must at least carry USB and LAN cables, which are easily available. Carrying only one cable is risky.

Pen drive / Portable Hard Disk

External storage is a must requirement because you can require it anytime for transferring files or storing backups. The storage must have adequate free space for storing data whenever required.

Nowadays, many automation devices come with a USB (pen-drive) port; so carrying it is an added advantage for safety, if the cables don’t work.

Mouse

At the site, PLC programmers most of the time face pressure to complete tasks on time. Working with laptop touchpads consumes a lot of time.

Also, graphic designing becomes hectic with a laptop touchpad. So, carrying a USB mouse along helps them to complete the task very easily.

Screwdriver Set

A screwdriver is a very important tool for a PLC programmer. If he faces any wiring issues at the site or if the wireman needs some extra help from him, then screwdrivers of various sizes will be very useful.

Also, the PLC programmer can independently work on some electrical wiring without the help of someone, to quickly resolve any issue.

Wire Stripper

Similar to screwdrivers, wire strippers also play an important role. If there comes a sudden requirement for a lot of wiring to be done, then a PLC programmer can independently do it by just stripping wire ends and doing the wiring as required.

Network Connectivity

As a PLC programmer can require online support access many times, it is required that the SIM card has enough data and the speed must be good enough to support it.

Usually, there are chances too that the SIM card you have will have limited access to the site. In this case, take the help of local engineers for their data, or even better, you can carry a network dongle for optimum usage.

Stationary Items

It would be good if the PLC programmers carries stationery items like notepads, pens, markers, etc. for their writing purposes. Many times, writing something during work helps programmers remember things during stressful conditions.

Also, as there is constant pressure from customers to get the work done, writing things makes the work easier for programmers.

In this way, we saw the necessary tools required for a PLC programmer to carry at the site.