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Off topic, but this is the first time I've seen PLC mentioned on HN. Is there a well known path from transitioning from a normal style of "software engineering"
by faxmeyourcode 4y ago
Off topic, but this is the first time I've seen PLC mentioned on HN. Is there a well known path from transitioning from a normal style of "software engineering" job that isn't embedded focused, and into the PLC/industrial automation field? I have family working in chemical engineering plants and I think the machinery is badass. I feel like I would like a PLC job but I don't know where to begin.
From the other comments in the thread, I'm guessing starting on this new Arduino PLC might not be the best?
- tehf0x 4y agoAlso interested, I've always wondered what "the book" would be to learn to make a nice proper industrial control cabinet (PLCs, wiring, components etc.)
- Gracana 4y agoI’m not sure if there’s a The Book (probably though… look for industrial automation course materials); I mostly learned by example, by reading standards (check out NFPA 79 “electrical standard for industrial machinery”), and by reading automation vendor literature.
- mediaman 4y agoThe industry does not have a great reputation. You will make less money and in worse working conditions, likely with more travel. The machines are cool. Automation Direct has some starter PLCs that are in the hundreds of dollars, and they have good enough reputations (though you will find shops that turn up their nose at AD). That'll be enough to learn ladder logic. And you can buy servos or steppers and learn motion control as well. It'll be difficult to get a job without experience at first, but talent is short and you might be able to convince someone to do entry-level work with the material you taught yourself. And then it gets easier. But you might start missing your old software engineering job.