Quick Answer: What Is a PLC Training Kit?
A PLC training kit is a complete educational system that includes a programmable logic controller (PLC), input/output devices (buttons, switches, lights), sensors, actuators, and comprehensive documentation for hands-on industrial automation training. Training kits cost between $318 and $1,778 depending on complexity and brand (Siemens, Mitsubishi, or Allen-Bradley).
Professional PLC training kits are used by 200+ vocational schools, universities, and enterprise training centers worldwide to teach industrial automation, motor control, VFD operation, and PLC programming.
What's Included in a PLC Training Kit?
A complete PLC training kit includes 7 essential components:
| Component | Description | Typical Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| PLC Controller | The main programmable logic controller | 8-32 I/O points, 24V DC or AC power |
| HMI Touchscreen | Human-machine interface for visualization | 7-10 inch color touchscreen |
| Input Devices | Buttons, switches, sensors | Push buttons, toggle switches, proximity sensors |
| Output Devices | Lights, relays, motors, actuators | LED indicators, relays, 3-phase motors |
| Power Supply | 24V DC power supply | 2-5A capacity |
| Documentation | User manual, wiring diagrams, training videos | English + Chinese, PDF + video format |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty and support | 1 year standard warranty |
How Much Do PLC Training Kits Cost?
PLC training kit prices vary by complexity and brand:
| Kit Type | Price Range | Best For | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic PID Control | $318 - $720 | Entry-level students, process control basics | AB 850 Series PID Kit, FX5U Temperature PID |
| PLC + VFD | $1,093 - $1,230 | Most popular for schools, motor control training | Siemens S7-1200 VFD Kit, Mitsubishi FX5U VFD Kit |
| Motion Control | $1,150 - $1,180 | Advanced students, 2-axis positioning | S7-1215C 2-Axis Kit, FX5U Motion Kit |
| Communication Systems | $1,631 - $1,778 | Industrial networking, dual-PLC systems | S7-1200 Communication Kit, FX5U CC-Link Kit |
Bulk pricing: Schools ordering 10+ units receive 10-15% discounts. Custom configurations available at no extra charge for orders of 5+ units.
Which PLC Brand Should You Choose?
The three major PLC training kit brands have different strengths:
| Brand | Market Share | Best For | Software | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siemens S7-1200 | 45% (Europe, Middle East) | Universities, European curriculum | TIA Portal (free trial available) | $639 - $1,631 |
| Mitsubishi FX5U | 35% (Asia, Pacific) | Asian markets, manufacturing focus | GX Works 3 (licensed) | $720 - $1,778 |
| Allen-Bradley | 20% (North America) | US/Canada schools, Rockwell ecosystem | CCW (free) or RSLogix | $318 - $1,644 |
How Long Does It Take to Learn PLC Programming?
Basic PLC programming skills can be learned in 40-60 hours (typically 2-3 weeks of daily practice with a training kit). Complete proficiency including VFD control, motion control, and industrial communication takes 120-160 hours (6-8 weeks).
Typical learning timeline:
- Week 1-2: Basic ladder logic, digital I/O, timers, counters (20 hours)
- Week 3-4: Analog I/O, PID control, HMI programming (20 hours)
- Week 5-6: VFD control, motor control, safety circuits (30 hours)
- Week 7-8: Industrial communication, motion control, troubleshooting (30 hours)
Most vocational programs use training kits for 1-2 semester courses (60-120 contact hours).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy programming software separately?
Can training kits be customized for specific curriculum?
What is the difference between a training kit and a real industrial PLC?
How many students can use one training kit?
What warranty and support is included?
Ready to Order PLC Training Kits?
We supply PLC training kits to 200+ schools and enterprises in 15+ countries. All kits include complete documentation, training videos, and 1-year warranty. Ships in 5-7 days via DHL/FedEx.