This 12-week Level 4 programme develops practical competence in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), combining PLC programming and industrial applications with the planning, installation, configuration, wiring, testing and verification of PLC systems.

The programme builds on CPI's applied PLC curriculum while incorporating Level 4 PLC Installation requirements. Learners develop skills in PLC selection, architecture, I/O configuration, ladder logic, fault diagnosis, installation planning, wiring, functionality testing, documentation and industrial communication.

Practical learning is supported through simulation, guided demonstrations, PLC programming activities and structured installation and troubleshooting exercises. Jamaican safety, workplace and regulatory requirements are applied where relevant.

By the end of the programme, learners will be able to plan, configure, program, install, test and troubleshoot PLC systems for industrial and building-control applications.

• Select appropriate PLC types and components for different applications
• Analyse PLC architecture, memory, scan-cycle behaviour, I/O systems and power requirements
• Plan PLC installations based on specifications, site conditions and job requirements
• Configure PLC hardware, I/O modules, power supplies and network interfaces
• Develop, test and troubleshoot PLC programs using ladder logic and industrial programming software
• Install and verify PLC wiring against manuals, circuit drawings and control requirements
• Carry out continuity and polarity testing and verify PLC system functionality
• Interpret sensors, switches, relays, transducers and other field devices used with PLC systems
• Apply industrial communication and network concepts, including Modbus
• Diagnose programming, I/O and control-system faults using structured troubleshooting techniques
• Apply safe working, risk-management and control-system safety principles
• Prepare technical documentation and PLC installation reports

PLC Selection, Architecture and Installation Planning

• Purpose, types, sizes and selection criteria for PLCs
• PLC architecture, CPU, memory, I/O, power supply and network interfaces
• PLC scan cycle, number systems and control-system operation
• Installation environment, site conditions and job requirements
• Work schedules, method statements, tools, materials, equipment and technical drawings
• Planning PLC installations to manufacturer, customer, workplace and regulatory requirements

• PLC programming techniques, languages and logic-control software
• Ladder diagrams, code mnemonics and control drawings
• Timers, counters, instruction types and structured control logic
• Configuring inputs, outputs and PLC components
• Programming interfaces, PCs/laptops and PLC software
• Program storage, diagnostic indicators and troubleshooting
• Practical development, testing and verification of PLC programs

• Installation and configuration of PLC components
• PLC control wiring and connection requirements
• Verification of ladder diagrams and code against installed wiring
• Continuity and polarity testing
• Functional testing against manuals and customer requirements
• Fault diagnosis and corrective action
• PLC installation reports and technical documentation

• I/O devices, switches, relays, sensors and transducers
• Communication media, connectors and opto-isolators
• Industrial network architectures, standards and protocols
• PLC communication with external devices and control interfaces
• Industrial data exchange and Modbus applications
• Safe working practices, workplace safety and risk management
• Lockout/Tagout awareness, emergency-stop principles and safe control responses
• Operational risk, communication weaknesses and industrial cybersecurity awareness

Practical activities are integrated throughout the programme using simulation, guided demonstration, PLC programming exercises and structured installation, testing and troubleshooting activities.

• Plan and Prepare: Assess PLC applications, installation environments, job requirements, technical drawings, tools and resources.
• Configure and Program: Configure PLC components and I/O, develop ladder logic and test control functions using appropriate software.
• Install and Verify: Install and verify PLC components and wiring against manuals, drawings and specified requirements.
• Test and Troubleshoot: Carry out continuity, polarity and functionality testing and diagnose programming, wiring and I/O faults.
• Connect and Communicate: Interpret PLC communication with field devices and control interfaces using industrial network concepts and protocols such as Modbus.
• Work Safely: Apply workplace safety, risk-control, Lockout/Tagout awareness and safe control-system practices.
• Document and Report: Produce appropriate PLC programming, testing and installation documentation.

This programme is intended for learners with a technical foundation and is not designed as an introduction to basic electrical principles.

• A relevant technical or vocational qualification in electrical, electronic, mechanical, industrial, engineering or a related field; or
• Relevant work-based experience in maintenance, electrical systems, industrial operations or a related technical environment; or
• Equivalent technical knowledge or experience considered suitable for entry

The programme uses an applied, simulation-supported and practical learning model. Guided instruction is combined with demonstrations, PLC programming exercises, installation and testing activities, collaborative problem-solving and independent study.

Learners apply programming and control concepts to practical PLC systems while developing installation, testing, documentation and troubleshooting competencies for industrial applications.

• Electrical and electronic technicians
• Maintenance technicians and industrial maintenance personnel
• Electrical workers seeking PLC programming and installation competence
• Engineering support staff and industrial operators
• Aspiring automation and control technicians
• Persons preparing for further study in PLCs, industrial automation, instrumentation or related engineering fields

Progression and Career Relevance

This programme supports technical roles involving PLC programming, installation, maintenance, testing, troubleshooting and industrial control. It also provides a strong progression route into more advanced study in PLCs, embedded systems, industrial automation, instrumentation and mechatronics.