PLC Programming Services
New machine programming, changes to existing equipment, and migration from legacy controls. Allen-Bradley and Siemens engineering, with planned testing, commissioning, and documented handover.
New machine programming, from a blank project
HillPoint develops PLC applications for new machines and production cells, from I/O mapping and sequence logic through interlocks, alarms, and HMI integration. The scope connects software development to equipment checkout and startup.
Ladder logic, structured text, and function blocks are selected around the application and your maintenance standards. Clear structure, naming, and comments help your operation maintain the program after commissioning.
A new machine scope can include:
- Full program development in ladder logic, with structured text and function blocks where they fit
- I/O checkout against the panel and field wiring, point by point
- HMI or PanelView screens tied to the same tag database
- On-machine commissioning and startup support until it runs to spec
- A commented program and a verified backup handed over at the end
Logic changes on equipment that's already running
Existing equipment often needs a new product recipe, an additional station, a changed sequence, or more useful alarms. HillPoint reviews the current program and its dependencies before defining the change.
Work on a running controller starts with verified backups and a review of operating risk. Downloads and changes that require an outage are scheduled with operations, with acceptance checks and a rollback plan.
Undocumented logic and inconsistent tags are recorded during review. Changes are documented so that the next maintenance task starts with a clearer record.
Allen-Bradley programming: current and legacy platforms
HillPoint works with ControlLogix and CompactLogix in Studio 5000, along with older RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500, and RSLogix 5 applications. HMI scope can include PanelView and FactoryTalk View.
Migration work maps legacy logic and interfaces to the replacement platform. Testing checks sequences, alarms, communications, and the operator actions needed to run the equipment.
Allen-Bradley platforms supported:
- ControlLogix and CompactLogix in Studio 5000
- SLC 500 in RSLogix 500 (legacy, end-of-life)
- PLC-5 in RSLogix 5 (discontinued line, migration candidates)
- PanelView and PanelView Plus HMIs in FactoryTalk View
- SLC and PLC-5 conversions to current CompactLogix or ControlLogix hardware
Siemens S7 programming in TIA Portal
Siemens work includes S7-1200 and S7-1500 applications in TIA Portal. Scope can cover new programming, changes to an existing OEM application, and controls integration with the surrounding production systems.
Block structure, symbolic addressing, naming, and documentation follow the project requirements and plant standards. Changes to operating equipment use the same backup, test, and rollback discipline as other controls work.
Do you need a PLC programmer or an electrician?
Electrical work and PLC programming address different parts of a machine. Electrical installation connects power, field devices, and wiring. PLC programming defines sequence logic, interlocks, communications, and the operator interface.
Troubleshooting starts by identifying whether the fault is in the wiring, hardware, communications, or application. HillPoint reviews the controls alongside the electrical evidence to define the appropriate work.
The scope identifies the responsibilities of controls engineering, electrical installation, and any equipment vendor involved in the project.
Documentation and standards you can hand to the next person
Handover includes the agreed commented logic, tag database, I/O list, and verified program backup. Documentation reflects the commissioned application.
Existing plant programming standards guide naming, routine structure, and comments. Where standards need to be established, they are agreed during scope review. Editable project files and a clear change record support future maintenance.
Remote and on-site, both
Program review, some logic changes, backup work, and selected troubleshooting can be delivered through an approved secure remote connection. Access and change-control requirements are agreed with your operation.
Equipment checkout, commissioning, and tasks that depend on observing the machine are performed on site. Remote engineering and site visits are coordinated around the project schedule, with documented changes and agreed handover requirements.
Got a machine that needs new logic, or old logic changed?
Share the controller platform, current application, and the behavior you need to change. HillPoint will review the scope, testing requirements, and commissioning needs. Call (321) 378-0424.