PLC Based Automation and Human Machine Interfaces

This course outlines the fundamentals of PLC and Human Machine Interfaces (HMI).

Overview

Duration

2 Full Days

Classroom Based

Day 1: 9am-4.15pm

Day 2: 9am-4.15pm

Location

CELTEC

Unit 12A

M4 Business Park

Celbridge, Co. Kildare

W23 HCK2

Google Maps Link

Prior Knowledge

Experience in related industrial sectors would be beneficial for the learner. Learners on this programme will should wish to reactivate their career to upskill and reskill from non-related disciplines as well as upskilling those already in employment in related industrial sectors. There is an expectation that candidates will have obtained a minimum of Junior Certificate Level (NFQ Level 3)

Certification

KWETB Certificate of Completion.

Cost

This course is fully funded to those currently in employment under the Skills To Advance initiative.

Skills to Advance Initiative

This course is only available to those currently in employment and fully funded under the Skills to Advance initiative.

Skills to Advance is a national initiative that provides upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs undergoing change and to those currently employed in vulnerable sectors. Skills to Advance aims to equip employees with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to the changing job market. Working closely with small and medium-sized enterprises, Skills to Advance helps employers identify skills needs and invest in their workforce by providing subsidised education and training to staff.

Save Your Spot

September 2025

18 - 20 September 2025

CELTEC, Celbridge

Course Aim

PLC and Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) systems are widely deployed and utilized across various industries to enhance automation, control, and monitoring of systems & processes. PLCs are responsible for managing and controlling systems & processes via the use of sensors, and actuators to perform tasks and control systems.

HMIs furnish operators with real-time data, system diagnostics, and control functions through user-friendly graphical interfaces. Together, PLCs and HMIs enable industries such as manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and chemicals to improve operational efficiency, ensure safety, and enhance production processes.

The course is 10% theory and 90% interactive using practical based exercises. and is delivered over 2 days.

Areas covered include:

Principle of operation of PLCs
Fundamentals of HMI design and layout to optimize interfaces to allow effective monitoring & control of systems
Essential elements of communication with PLCs and HMIs via TIA (Totally Integrated Automation) using PROFINET.
Ladder logic-based programming and HMI setup and interfacing encompassing PLC & HMI integration, data communication, control & monitoring, system optimization
Data types & tagging philosophies
Fault finding and resetting systems

The software platform is Siemens TIA using Siemens 1500 PLCs with integrated HMIs. The course provides a hands-on approach to the utilization of PLCs using tailored practical exercises based on real-life industry scenarios. These real-life scenarios can be tailored to mimic the learner’s area of employment.

Learning Outcomes

Learn how to

Develop core competency in the basic steps required to connect and deploy PLC code to a live system
Get PLC and HMIs systems up and running
Develop trouble shooting skills to interrogate PLC and HMI systems
Determine appropriate solutions to reset faults as they occur
Identify and suggest and/or write corrective PLC code and to change/optimise HMI configuration to reduce/eliminate recurring faults

Understand how

PLCs and HMI systems are developed and interact with typical scenario deployments
To determine appropriate solutions to isolate and identify fault occurring PLC code & HMI configuration.
To reset faults and get PLC & HMI system back up and running

Know how to

View code to identify possible issues
Produce solutions to promote fault reduction
Standardise fault finding techniques

CELTEC (Celbridge Engineering Lab Training and Education Centre) in Co. Kildare is a facility focused on advanced manufacturing and technical education. It offers specialised training in areas like robotics, industrial systems, additive manufacturing, and Industry 4.0 technologies.

The center emphasises hands-on learning through state-of-the-art equipment, including robotics, cobotics, and virtual reality systems, and fosters expertise in areas like precision engineering and pharmaceutical processes.

The facility includes modern classrooms equipped with multimedia learning tools and advanced laboratories for engineering and industrial training. CELTEC is part of the Kildare Wicklow Education and Training Board's initiatives and provides traineeships and skill development programs tailored for employment in technical and manufacturing roles. Courses often integrate classroom instruction with online, blended, and immersive learning technologies