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Free Practice Questions for Craftsman Smart Factory

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Key Facts: Craftsman Smart Factory Exam

60 items

Official written paper question count

Q-Net Craftsman test specification (2026 enactment)

60 minutes

Written CBT examination duration

Q-Net national technical qualification written test rules

60 / 100

Passing score for both written (36/60) and practical stages

National Technical Qualifications Act Enforcement Rules

KRW 14,500

Official written CBT registration fee

Q-Net portal fee schedule (checked 2026)

KRW 62,000

Official practical examination fee

Q-Net portal fee schedule (checked 2026)

2 years

Exemption period for written exam pass

National Technical Qualifications Act Enforcement Decree Article 21

스마트공장기능사 is HRD Korea's craftsman-grade qualification enacted in 2026 under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups. The 60-minute written CBT has 60 four-option items (passing score: 60/100), followed by a hands-on work-type practical exam in smart factory system setup and maintenance. Official fees are KRW 14,500 written and KRW 62,000 practical on Q-Net. Only the written paper runs in 2026; the first practical sitting is scheduled for the first half of 2027. OpenExamPrep provides independent English MCQ practice, not an official translation or practical simulation.

Sample Craftsman Smart Factory Practice Questions

Try these sample questions to review concepts for the Craftsman Smart Factory exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.

1Which of the following describes the correct cyclic operational sequence of a standard Programmable Logic Controller (PLC CPU 스캔 사이클)?
A.Program execution → Output refresh → Input read
B.Input read (입력 스캔) → User program execution (프로그램 연산) → Output refresh (출력 갱신)
C.Output refresh → Program execution → Diagnostic check → Input read
D.User program execution → Input read → Communication servicing → Output refresh
Explanation: A standard PLC operates on a deterministic cyclic scan cycle (스캔 사이클). During each scan, the CPU reads the status of all physical inputs into the input image table (입력 스캔), executes the user ladder logic line-by-line using those stored values (프로그램 연산), and finally copies the resulting output table states to the physical output modules (출력 갱신) along with internal diagnostics and peripheral communication servicing.
2In PLC ladder diagram programming, what condition causes a Normally Open contact (A접점 / Examine If Closed - XIC) to evaluate as TRUE (conduct power flow)?
A.When the referenced memory bit or physical input address is at logic 1 (ON / energized)
B.When the referenced memory bit or physical input address is at logic 0 (OFF / de-energized)
C.When the physical field device wiring is broken or disconnected
D.Only when an emergency stop condition is actively triggered
Explanation: A Normally Open contact (A접점, designated XIC in IEC/ladder terminology) conducts virtual power flow across the rung only when the assigned memory bit or physical input terminal is at logic state 1 (ON). If the bit is 0 (OFF), the contact remains open and blocks rung continuity.
3In PLC ladder logic, what is the operating behavior of a Normally Closed contact (B접점 / Examine If Open - XIO)?
A.It conducts power flow only when its referenced bit has a value of 1
B.It stays permanently closed regardless of input state until an explicit reset instruction executes
C.It conducts power flow when its referenced bit is 0 (OFF) and opens when the bit is 1 (ON)
D.It requires a high-voltage pulse from an external source to close
Explanation: A Normally Closed contact (B접점, designated XIO) examines if the referenced bit is open (0). It allows virtual continuity through the ladder rung when the referenced address is 0 (de-energized) and interrupts power flow as soon as the address becomes 1 (energized).
4What is the primary circuit configuration used to create a classic self-holding circuit (자기유지회로) in PLC ladder logic using momentary pushbuttons?
A.Connecting the stop button in parallel with the output coil
B.Connecting a normally closed auxiliary contact in series with the start button
C.Connecting a high-speed counter directly to an analog output channel
D.Wiring a normally open contact of the output coil in parallel with the start pushbutton contact
Explanation: A self-holding circuit (자기유지회로) maintains coil energization after a momentary start pushbutton (기동 버튼) is released. This is achieved by placing a Normally Open auxiliary contact addressed to the output coil in parallel with the start pushbutton contact, while keeping a Normally Closed stop pushbutton in series with the combination.
5How does an On-Delay Timer (온 딜레이 타이머 / TON) behave when its rung input condition transitions from FALSE to TRUE?
A.The timer output bit turns ON immediately and turns OFF after the preset time elapses
B.The timer begins counting elapsed time, and its output bit turns ON only after the accumulated value reaches the preset value (PV)
C.The timer counts only when the input transitions from TRUE to FALSE
D.The timer resets its accumulated value to the preset value and decreases to zero
Explanation: An On-Delay Timer (TON) delays the turning ON of its output contact. When the rung input becomes TRUE, the timer begins accumulating time. Its output bit turns ON only after the accumulated value (CV) reaches the preset value (PV), provided the input condition remains continuously TRUE throughout the timing interval.
6Which of the following describes the operating characteristic of an Off-Delay Timer (오프 딜레이 타이머 / TOF)?
A.The output contact turns ON immediately when the input condition turns TRUE, and remains ON for the preset time after the input condition turns FALSE
B.The output contact turns ON only after the input has remained FALSE for the preset duration
C.The timer begins counting as soon as power is applied to the PLC CPU, regardless of input state
D.The timer accumulates time continuously across multiple start/stop pulses without ever resetting
Explanation: An Off-Delay Timer (TOF) is designed to delay turning OFF an output. When the input rung becomes TRUE, the timer output immediately energizes (turns ON). When the input rung turns FALSE, the timer starts timing, and the output contact stays ON until the preset time expires, at which point it turns OFF.
7In an IEC-compliant PLC Up Counter (가산 카운터 / CTU), what triggers an increase in the Current Value (CV / 현재값)?
A.A continuous high logic level (1) maintained on the reset input terminal
B.A change in the analog input voltage of at least 10%
C.An OFF-to-ON (rising edge) transition of the count input (CU)
D.An ON-to-OFF (falling edge) transition of the counter output bit
Explanation: A CTU (Up Counter) increments its accumulated Current Value (CV) by 1 upon each low-to-high (0 to 1, rising edge) transition of its count input (CU). Once CV reaches or exceeds the Preset Value (PV), the counter's Done output bit (Q) sets to 1.
8In an industrial motor forward/reverse sequence control circuit (전동기 정·역 운전 제어 회로), what is the purpose of an electrical interlock (인터록)?
A.To increase the rotation speed of the motor when running in reverse
B.To prevent both forward and reverse contactors from energizing simultaneously, avoiding a short circuit
C.To automatically reverse motor rotation after a preset time interval
D.To step down three-phase supply voltage to 24 V DC for the PLC power supply
Explanation: In three-phase motor forward/reverse control, switching directions involves swapping two power phases. If both the forward (정회전) and reverse (역회전) electromagnetic contactors were to close at the same time, a dead short-circuit between phases would occur. An electrical interlock places a normally closed auxiliary contact of each contactor in series with the opposite contactor's coil to prevent simultaneous operation.
9When wiring a sensor to a Sinking Input module (싱크 입력 모듈) of a PLC, what is the direction of current flow and what sensor output type is required?
A.Current flows out of the PLC input terminal, requiring an NPN (sinking) sensor
B.Current alternates at 60 Hz, requiring a passive dry contact only
C.Current flows directly to earth ground without passing through the optocoupler
D.Current flows into the PLC input terminal from the sensor, requiring a sourcing (PNP) sensor
Explanation: In industrial automation conventions (including IEC standards), a Sinking Input (싱크 입력) provides a path for current to flow into the PLC terminal towards the 0V common (COM is connected to 0V / DC-). Therefore, the connected field device must be a Sourcing (PNP) sensor that provides +24V to drive current into the input terminal.
10Compared to a Relay Output module (릴레이 출력), what is the primary operational advantage of a Transistor Output module (트랜지스터 출력) in a PLC?
A.High switching speed and virtually unlimited operating life with no mechanical contact wear
B.Ability to directly switch high-voltage AC 440 V loads without external contactors
C.Zero leakage current when in the OFF state
D.Complete immunity to polarity wiring errors on DC connections
Explanation: Transistor output modules (트랜지스터 출력 모듈) are solid-state electronic switches (NPN or PNP). Because they have no physical moving contacts, they switch within microseconds and do not suffer mechanical contact wear or contact bouncing. This makes them ideal for high-frequency pulsing (e.g., stepper/servo pulse trains) and fast cyclic operations.

About the Craftsman Smart Factory Exam

Craftsman Smart Factory (스마트공장기능사) is a national technical qualification newly enacted in 2026 under the National Technical Qualifications Act Enforcement Rules, administered by HRD Korea on Q-Net under the Ministry of SMEs and Startups. The written exam evaluates core knowledge in programmable logic controllers (PLCs), digital/analog sensors, pneumatic actuators, industrial fieldbuses (Modbus, EtherCAT, CC-Link, Profinet), HMI monitoring, and MES maintenance. Following the written CBT, candidates take a hands-on work-type practical exam in smart factory automation system setup and maintenance; 2026 runs the written paper only, with the first practical sitting scheduled for the first half of 2027. OpenExamPrep provides an independent English-language MCQ study adaptation for written preparation, not an official translation or hands-on practical simulation.

Exam sponsor: HRD Korea (Q-Net) / Ministry of SMEs and Startups. The requirements and fees below concern the certification or admission exam, separate from our free practice resources.

Assessment

Written exam consisting of 60 four-option CBT questions in 60 minutes on the single subject 스마트공장 시스템 설치 및 유지보수 (covering PLC, sensors/actuators, industrial networks/HMI, and manufacturing data/maintenance), followed by a work-type practical exam in 스마트공장 시스템 설치 및 유지보수 실무.

Time Limit

60 minutes written; practical duration not yet published

Passing Score

Written: 60/100; practical: 60/100

Exam / Certification Fees

KRW 14,500 written / KRW 62,000 practical (Q-Net, 2026)

Exam sponsor website

Fees, eligibility, and exam policies can change. Confirm them with the exam sponsor before applying or paying.

Official sources

Our practice resources: topics covered

We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.

30%

PLC & Industrial Controllers (PLC 및 산업용 제어기)

PLC hardware architecture, digital and analog I/O modules, ladder logic, timer and counter operations, and sequential control.

25%

Sensors, Actuators & Interfaces (센서·액추에이터 및 인터페이스)

Photoelectric, proximity, ultrasonic, and analog sensors, pneumatic solenoid valves, pneumatic cylinders, servo/stepper motors, and wiring.

25%

Industrial Networks & HMI (산업용 네트워크 및 HMI)

Fieldbus protocols (Modbus RTU/TCP, CC-Link, EtherCAT, Profinet), HMI screen tags, graphic monitoring, and alarm handling.

20%

Manufacturing Data & Maintenance (제조 데이터 및 설비 유지보수)

MES concepts, sensor data logging, preventative maintenance, fault diagnostics, and automated manufacturing safety rules.

Preparing for the Craftsman Smart Factory Exam

What You Need to Know

  • Passing score: Written: 60/100; practical: 60/100
  • Assessment: Written exam consisting of 60 four-option CBT questions in 60 minutes on the single subject 스마트공장 시스템 설치 및 유지보수 (covering PLC, sensors/actuators, industrial networks/HMI, and manufacturing data/maintenance), followed by a work-type practical exam in 스마트공장 시스템 설치 및 유지보수 실무.
  • Time limit: 60 minutes written; practical duration not yet published
  • Exam / certification fees: KRW 14,500 written / KRW 62,000 practical (Q-Net, 2026) Official sources

Using Our Practice Resources

  • Work through all 100 available questions
  • Review every answer and explanation
  • Track weak areas and revisit them
  • Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

Craftsman Smart Factory: Suggested Study Strategy

1Master PLC ladder logic addressing, NO/NC contacts, timer (TON/TOF) behaviors, and latch/unlatch sequence logic.
2Understand sinking vs. sourcing (NPN vs. PNP) sensor wiring and optical sensor operating modes (through-beam, retro-reflective, diffuse).
3Study industrial network protocol topologies, transmission media, and tag address mappings between PLCs and HMI touchscreens.
4Familiarize yourself with basic MES (Manufacturing Execution System) functions, OEE calculations, and preventative maintenance procedures.
5Remember that the official exam is conducted in Korean; memorize essential Korean terminology alongside English conceptual principles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Craftsman Smart Factory (스마트공장기능사)?

It is a South Korean national technical qualification enacted in 2026 by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups and administered by HRD Korea via Q-Net. It certifies practical competence in installing, wiring, operating, and maintaining smart factory automated equipment, PLCs, sensors, industrial networks, and data interfaces.

Who is eligible to take the exam?

There are no prerequisites or eligibility restrictions. As a Craftsman (기능사) level qualification under the National Technical Qualifications Act, anyone can register regardless of academic major, educational attainment, or prior work experience.

What is the examination structure and passing standard?

The written test is a 60-minute computer-based test (CBT) with 60 four-option multiple-choice questions on smart factory system installation and maintenance (스마트공장 시스템 설치 및 유지보수). Candidates need 60 points or more (at least 36 correct answers out of 60) to pass. The practical exam is a work-type test (스마트공장 시스템 설치 및 유지보수 실무) scored out of 100 points, requiring 60 points or more to pass; because 2026 is the first year of this qualification, only the written paper runs in 2026 and the practical duration has not been published.

What are the examination fees and retake policies?

The standard Q-Net fees in 2026 are KRW 14,500 for the written CBT and KRW 62,000 for the practical exam. Candidates who pass the written exam are exempt from retaking the written test for two full years from the pass announcement date.

Is this practice bank affiliated with HRD Korea or Q-Net?

No. This practice bank is an independent English-language MCQ study adaptation designed by OpenExamPrep to assist English-speaking engineers and students in mastering Korean smart factory technical concepts. It is not an official translation, not an official Q-Net CBT simulator, and does not simulate the hands-on practical examination.