Where should a TIMER instruction be placed for optimal function?

Placing a TIMER instruction immediately following a PULSE instruction is optimal because it ensures that the timer begins counting as soon as the pulse signal is generated. This timing is crucial in many engineering applications, where the operation tied to the timer is dependent on the duration or occurrence of the pulse.

The PULSE instruction typically represents a momentary change in state, and by placing the TIMER right after this instruction, you capture the precise timing needed for operations that follow. This can be especially important in processes where synchronization of events is critical, such as controlling machinery, operating processes, or managing sequences in automated systems.

By correctly situating the TIMER in this manner, you ensure that any subsequent logic or actions that rely on the timer's output are accurately timed based on the initial trigger from the PULSE instruction. This helps in achieving the desired outcomes in a control system while minimizing potential errors related to timing and sequencing.