What is OpenPLC?
OpenPLC is the world first fully open-source PLC platform. It turns your laptop into a working PLC. Supports all five IEC 61131-3 languages — Ladder Logic, Structured Text, FBD, IL, SFC. Completely free with no licence fees or limitations.
Why Students Should Learn OpenPLC
A Siemens S7-1200 costs over 50000 rupees. TIA Portal needs a licence. OpenPLC eliminates both barriers. Students install on their own laptop and practice at home. Programming concepts are identical — ladder logic is ladder logic everywhere. Plus, built-in Modbus TCP enables IoT dashboard connections.
Installation
Download from OpenPLC GitHub releases page. Run as Administrator on Windows. The wizard handles all dependencies. Launch OpenPLC Editor from Start menu.
First Program: Motor Start/Stop
Create new project. Add variables: StartButton (BOOL, %IX0.0), StopButton (BOOL, %IX0.1), Motor (BOOL, %QX0.0). Build the classic motor circuit in Ladder Logic — stop NC in series with start NO parallel with seal-in, driving motor coil. Compile with Generate Program button.
Running in Simulation
Open browser at localhost:8080. Login: openplc/openplc. Upload compiled program. Click Start PLC. Force inputs to simulate buttons. Monitor outputs in real-time.
Connecting to IoT
OpenPLC maps addresses to Modbus registers automatically. Node-RED reads this data for web dashboards — a complete PLC-to-IoT system on your laptop for free.
Can OpenPLC replace Siemens?
No — it is for learning and prototyping. Learn Siemens for industry, OpenPLC for free home practice.
Works on Mac/Linux?
Yes. Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
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