IEC 61131-3 gives a comprehensive introduction to the concepts and languages of the new standard used to program industrial control systems. A summary of the special programming requirements and the corresponding features in the IEC 61131-3 standard make it suitable for students as well as PLC experts. The material is presented in an easy-to-understand form using numerous examples, illustrations, and summary tables. There is also a purchaser's guide and a CD-ROM containing two reduced but functional versions of programming systems.

1 Introduction.- 2 Building Blocks of IEC 61131-3.- 3 Variables, Data Types and Common Elements.- 4 The New Programming Languages of IEC 61131-3.- 5 Standardised PLC Functionality.- 6 State-of-the-Art PLC Configuration.- 7 Innovative PLC Programming Systems.- 8 Main Advantages of IEC 61131-3.- 9 Programming by Configuring with IEC 61499.- 10 Contents of CD-ROM.- A Standard Functions.- B Standard Function Blocks.- C IL Examples.- D Standard Data Types.- E Causes of Error.- F Implementation-Dependent Parameters.- G IL Syntax Example.- H Reserved Keywords and Delimiters.- I Planned Amendments to the Standard.- J Glossary.- K Bibliography.- L Index.- Author Biographies.- Karl-Heinz John.- Michael Tiegelkamp.