Before You Start

Before you start with LadderDIP IV and LadderDIP PLC Studio you have to keep in mind the following important things

1) WHAT ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?

LadderDIP IV and LadderDIP PLC Studio, together, form a LADDER programmable PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) system. The LadderDIP IV is supplied in the form of an electronic module that requires just a power supply and gives a general purpose set of TTL (3.0V) I/O for your specific application. The module also add some important features like A/D channels, D/A, PWM, RTC and non volatile memory.

2) LADDER LANGUAGE IS NOT "C"

Many people tend to think to LADDER language like an alternative to the "C" language. This is completely wrong. The tool you are going to use (and probably purchase) is absolutely different from any other traditional script languages you know (C, Basic, Java, Phyton, Forth .. etc ... there are tons of those)

There are huge differences between the two environments. The "C" language, for example, allow you to start a project "from the scratch", having almost 360 degrees of flexibility in supporting and handling your embedded system. By the other hand "C" requires a good processor knowledge and a deep programming attitude. LADDER language is mostly used in automation field and is hugely preferred by electricians and installators. Essentially with the LADDER language you don't have to know anything about processor architecture, interrupts, procedures and so on. With the LADDER language you simply place functional objects in your worksheet, you connect the components with wires and configure the components properties. All the rest is done by the software.

So, definitely, consider the LADDER language the best way to obtain, quickly, automation control applications. If you need to play with a different level of microprocessor resources, convince yourself,  LadderDIP PLC Studio is not your tool! :)

3) LadderDIP IV POINTS OF FORCE

LadderDIP IV is the perfect product if you want to integrate a complete PLC core into your embedded products. LadderDIP IV consumes few PCB space, it has features comparable to high-end branded PLC but it cost less. LadderDIP IV concept raised up with the necessity to have an easy to program LADDER environment suitable to be embedded in different electronics boards and applications.With the using of LadderDIP IV you save tons of money related to the developing of the visual interface and you immediately get a running PLC in your product

4) WHICH ARE THE MAIN APPLICATION AREAS WHERE LadderDIP IV WAS INTEGRATED?

LadderDIP IV was happily used in the following application fields