Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers writing, testing, editing and monitoring programs using a hand program loader.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to all fields of engineering and manufacturing. Work is done under supervision.

Band : 0 

Unit Weight : 0 

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Write and test basic programs using a hand program loader

1.1. Programs are written in accordance with programming rules.

1.2. Programs are loaded into a PLC.

1.3. Programs are verified with a supervisor.

1.4. The operation of programs is tested with assistance from a supervisor.

2. Edit and monitor basic programs using a hand program loader

2.1. The monitoring function is used to verify circuit conditions and check the current values of timers and counters.

2.2. Editing features are used to make minor program changes.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• communicating
• planning
• assessing
• problem solving
• analysing
• reading and interpreting engineering specifications, standard operating procedures and other applicable reference documents
• organising information
• using numeral operations, geometry and calculations/formulae within the scope of this unit
• checking for conformance to specifications
• planning and sequencing operations
• checking and clarifying task-related information

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• hazards and control measures associated with preparing basic programs for PLC, including housekeeping
• safe work practices and procedures
• General knowledge of programmable controllers including:
• basic PLC operation: definitions, terminology and block diagrams; scan cycle
• basic programming rules; addressing for I/O; halt; run
• programming (using a hand programmer): flowcharts/steps to use when programming; clearing of memory; ladder format
• Boolean/mnemonic/statement list format; series circuits; parallel circuits; latching circuits; stack register operation; combination series/parallel circuits; inversion elements; timers
• counters; monitoring of discrete I/O and timer/counter values; edit (insert and delete elements)
• connection of discrete input and output devices to a PLC

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to prepare basic programs for programmable logic controllers.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with preparing basic programs for programmable logic controllers, or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment 

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment 

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Programs 

Includes series elements, parallel elements, combination series parallel elements, basic timers and counters

Unit sector 

Co-requisite units 

Competency field 

Engineering technician