Learning path · 4 courses
Japanese PLC platforms
Omron Sysmac and CX-Programmer, Mitsubishi GX Works3 and GX Works2: the controllers inside many packaging, textile and automotive machines, especially in Asia.
In order
The courses
Take them in this order. Each one is free and stands on its own.
- 1Omron Sysmac Studio: NX and NJ Machine ControllersPLC programming · Beginner · 21 hours
- 2Omron PLC with CX-ProgrammerPLC programming · Beginner · 18 hours
- 3Mitsubishi GX Works3: MELSEC iQ-R and iQ-FPLC programming · Beginner · 16 hours
- 4Mitsubishi FX with GX Works2PLC programming · Beginner · 15 hours
Then
Practise the job and find one
- PLC Programmer job simulation
Write the I/O list, program the line, run the FAT and handle a change request. Days 1 to 5 are free.
- PLC and automation jobs in the UK
Live jobs, updated daily. Free to browse and apply.
- EDWartens Lab
Free browser simulators to practise what each course teaches.
Questions
Japanese PLC platforms: common questions
Is the Japanese PLC platforms path free?
Yes. All 4 courses are free: every lesson, quiz and final exam costs nothing. A verifiable certificate for a course is optional, at £19 including VAT once you pass its final exam. It is a certificate of completion, not a regulated qualification.
How long does it take?
About 70 hours of video across 4 courses, plus quizzes. At five hours a week that is roughly 14 weeks, and you can start or stop any course whenever you like.
Do I need hardware or paid software?
No PLC hardware is needed. Each course page lists the software it uses; most run in free or trial versions, and many have practice in the browser-based EDWartens Lab.
What can it lead to?
Practise the job itself with the free PLC Programmer job simulation (the first five days are free, no card), then browse live UK PLC and automation jobs. Neither is a promise of a job.