PHASE 1 FUNDAMENTALS

PLC Fundamentals

Finally understand what a PLC actually is, what's inside it, and how it runs your program — including the scan cycle that explains so much of how industrial control behaves.
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Included in the full Zero to Hired program · Beginner friendly · No experience required

WHAT YOU'LL BE ABLE TO DO

Understand the machine you're about to program

Know what a PLC is

Understand what a PLC is, why it exists, and how it differs from a normal computer.

Understand the hardware

Get to know the CPU, I/O modules, and the anatomy of a real PLC.

Master the scan cycle

Understand how a PLC reads, executes, and writes every cycle — and why fast signals can be tricky.

See why it matters

Connect the scan cycle to real behavior you'll see when programming and troubleshooting.

Meet the languages

Get introduced to IEC 61131-3 and the programming languages you'll use.

Be ready to program

Walk away with the mental model you need to start writing ladder logic in Phase 2.

EVERYTHING INCLUDED

More than videos it's a toolkit you keep

  • Step-by-step video lessons: clear, focused, and built in the right order.
  • Downloadable reference sheets: keep the key facts at your fingertips on the job.
  • Knowledge checks: confirm each concept stuck before you move on.
  • Lifetime access & updates: including new lessons as the course grows.
WHO IT'S FOR

Built for the people breaking into automation

The Beginner

You're learning automation from scratch and want a clear path instead of scattered videos. Every lesson is built to take you from zero to genuinely capable, no prior experience assumed.

Career Transition

You already work in a plant and want to move into a dedicated controls role. This fills the exact gaps that get maintenance techs, operators, and electricians promoted into automation.

Frequently asked questions

Is this where I start programming?

Not quite this is the 'how a PLC works' module that makes programming make sense. You'll start writing programs in Phase 2.

Why does the scan cycle matter so much?

Because it explains real behavior like why a naive counter runs away. Understanding it early saves you hours of confusion later.

Do I need the earlier courses?

Electrical and I/O fundamentals are recommended, but if you've got those basics you can start here.

What's included besides videos?

A PLC comparison reference, a hardware visual guide, and a programming-language overview PDF.
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