Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
To program a CompactLogix or ControlLogix controller you’re going to need a copy of Studio 5000 Logix Designer, which was formerly known as RSLogix 5000 prior to the version 21 release:
If you don’t have a copy, you can purchase it using this link to Rockwell’s new online software portal, however when you first visit that site you won’t see any pricing or part numbers.
In order to actually the available options, you’ll first need to login with a free account which you can create using the link on the top of the page. Once logged in, scroll down and select “Studio 5000 Automation Engineering & Design Environment” to see the available Studio 5000 packages and pricing.
You can also test-drive Studio 5000 Logix Designer prior to purchasing it by requesting a thirty day “try before you buy” temporary activation from your local distributor (or Rockwell directly) as I cover in a previous article here.
Why you may need both RSLogix 5000 and Studio 5000
The first ControlLogix controllers were released in the late 1990’s along side the first edition of the ControlLogix Programming Software, RSLogix 5000 (Standard.) Over time, as additional ControlLogix and CompactLogix controllers came out, RSLogix 5000 was updated to add support for each new model and firmware released.
As the years went by Rockwell continued to improve the design of their Logix controllers, eventually releasing their first “multi-core” models, the 5370 and 5570 series of controllers.
It was at this point that Rockwell decided to rename the Logix programming software from RSLogix 5000 to Studio 5000 Logix Designer starting with version 21. This was done to indicate that (among other things) new versions of the software only supported the newer “multi-core” controllers like the 5370 and 5570 series.
While it is true some 5370 and 5570 controllers also support versions prior to v21, you’ll likely find that most of these controllers in the field are running v21+ firmware. And when it comes to the newest 5380 and 5580 controllers, your only option to program these controllers is to use the v21+ versions of Studio 5000.
That said, for those also supporting systems with older “single-core” Logix controllers, you’ll still need to have RSLogix 5000 installed to go online with those legacy controllers.
If you’re in that situation, you should know that when you purchase a new license of Studio 5000 Logix Designer today, you only receive RSLogix/Studio 5000 versions 20.05 and up unless you opt for the more expensive “Legacy” edition which also includes previous versions (1 through 20.04.)
Note: To find out which versions your controller supports, check out our previous article here.
Why you may need to install multiple versions of RSLogix / Studio 5000
The version of RSLogix 5000 or Studio 5000 Logix Designer you use with your controller is determined by the Major Revision of Firmware in your Controller.
For instance, if you have a 1756-L63 with firmware version 16, then you’ll need to install v16 of RSLogix 5000 to edit, upload and download, and go online with it. And if you also have a 1756-L75 with version v21 firmware, then you’ll also need to install v21 of Studio 5000 Logix Designer to support it as well.
This requirement for the Major Software Version to match the Controller’s Major Firmware Version is often referred to as “Lock Step” compatibility.
The good news is RSLogix 5000 and Studio 5000 support side-by-side installations of every version from v10 all the up to the latest version (v34 atm.) You can also install one pre-10 version as well.
One common question that arises here is if the MINOR versions of the Software and Firmware have to match, and the answer is no. The minor versions of both the hardware and software increment at different intervals based on issues found in either the software or firmware, and therefore they’re not dependent on each other.
What else you’ll need
It should also be noted that when you install either RSLogix or Studio 5000, RSLinx Classic Lite and/or FactoryTalk Linx will also be installed. These are the communication drivers required for RSLogix and/or Studio 5000 to communicate to your Logix controllers.
Which package or bundle will you need?
RSLogix / Studio 5000 licenses come in several different packages and bundles, with each supporting a different range of products and features.
While I cover this in more detail in this article, the quick answer is for those who will only be using the CompactLogix, they can purchase the lower cost Studio 5000 Mini or Lite edition (prices below from November 2022:)
But for those who also need to program the more expensive ControlLogix controllers, they will need either the Standard, Full, or Pro version of the software which supports all CompactLogix and ControlLogix controllers (prices below from November 2022:)
When asked, I typically recommend the Full edition over the Pro edition, since the “Pro” version as it is bundled with software most users will never use.
For more information about each of these editions, see this article,
Until next time, Peace ✌️
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Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Modern manufacturing has paved the way for improved machinability, enhanced machine efficiency, and superior quality products. Modern manufacturing technology started with the Industrial Revolution that spanned from the eighteenth to the nineteenth century.
The discovery of the steam engine orchestrated the fast development of mechanized systems in several industries today. Modern manufacturing, however, sits at the center of industrial production. It handles the complexities of manufacturing various products, ensuring productivity and quality through diverse machining capabilities.
This article discusses CNC automation, its advantages, what enables CNC machining automation, and how RapidDirect powers CNC automation. Read on to find out more on this topic!
What is CNC Automation?
CNC automation involves moving workpieces through the manufacturing process from machine tools to other secondary devices like measuring cells or washing stations. Machine automation reduces human interventions in manufacturing processes, increasing machine tool utilization. It is a crucial way of getting the most from your CNC machines.
Automation helps to achieve repeatability of processes across CNC machining operations using CNC technologies like CAM software. Nowadays, CNC automation technology allows engineers to manufacture parts with less operator intervention using machine simulation capabilities and offline programming.
The Advantages of CNC Automation
Automating machining processes is beneficial to CNC machining services and positively influences your customers’ subsequent manufacturing processes. CNC automation optimizes manufacturing processes, thereby improving the economic growth of manufacturing companies. Here are some of the significant advantages:
Fast Production Speed and Quick- Turnaround Time
The automation of CNC machines increases and maximizes machine uptime since they can handle multiple operations at the same time. These machines manufacture products faster and more efficiently than conventional machines. They require less operator supervision and labor costs. These CNC-machined parts sell more quickly, thereby influencing their demand increase.
Reduction of Manufacturing Costs
CNC automation solutions ensure labor and machine cost-effectiveness throughout the entire manufacturing operation. A single machine operator can manage and inspect many machines, reducing production costs. Aside from lowering production costs, CNC automation minimizes risks and prevents accidents while mitigating other liabilities. CNC automation allows high turnover at reduced prices which helps to increase profits in your businesses in the long run.
Good Consistency and Quality Control
CNC automation helps manufacturers machine products with consistent features ensuring customers get the quality products they seek. A customer who patronizes manufacturers investing in CNC automation technology expects products with the highest quality possible. Automated machines work round-the-clock, producing the same product with equal quality. They only need occasional maintenance to ensure their longevity.
What Enables Automation of CNC Machining Processes
Increased automation help enhance manufacturing efforts and workflow through the incorporation of various programs and notable innovation. They include the following:
Hardware in CNC Machining
Although CNC machines can be pretty costly, they have remarkable benefits. Generally, CNC technology automates the machining of different components using different devices. There is an extensive list of machines to choose from, including 3-, 4-, or 5-axis machines.
The 5-axis machine is the most capable custom CNC milling machine with higher and more versatile machining capabilities. These CNC machine tools are easy to use and very efficient. They require programming and periodic maintenance to ensure that they last long. However, fenestration software must be fully integrated with the CNC machines.
Software in CNC Machining
The automation of CNC machining works best with versatile fenestration software. This software helps with smooth transitions in the manufacturing phases, starting from quoting to part manufacturing. The automated process eliminates the manual process of taking orders to the machine shop.
Intelligent software allows you to manage complex processes with multiple configuration options. This software enables your CNC machines to execute programs based on how you want the work done. As a result, you get optimized production and precision components and keep your customers satisfied and happy.
How RapidDirect Powers CNC Automation
Instant CNC Quote Engine
RapidDirect is one of the leading manufacturing companies with outstanding capabilities and advanced machining technology to drive automation at the highest level.
RapidDirect offers an efficient and reliable online instant CNC quote and a DfM AI algorithm-powered engine that analyzes your parts design in-depth. This digital quoting platform evaluates your part’s geometry, giving you real-time and competitive pricing.
In addition, it optimizes your design by providing helpful automated recommendations that increase your components’ machinability. You get a quote for your project in three simple, yet effective steps. All you need to do is upload your design file, configure your part, and get an instant quote. It’s that simple!
Superior Supplier Network
Asides from giving a real-time update on the progress of your project, RapidDirect has a vast network of suppliers. These suppliers source raw and intermediate materials for them and help them to deliver finished products to different customers across the globe.
It helps in fast-tracking their automation process while ensuring the value added for their customers. RapidDirect sends your project for timely delivery once they pass the quality inspection assessments.
Conclusion
CNC automation is fast transforming the manufacturing industry by increasing productivity and efficiency while reducing costs and labor. Automation helps you to increase the lead time and speed of manufacturing your parts and improve operational efficiency and consistency while enabling innovation, unlike manual methods.
By RapidDirect Leading on-demand platform for prototype and low-volume manufacturing
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Wishing all our readers and viewers a very Happy Thanksgiving!
We hope you have a day filled with happiness, and we’re very thankful that you choose to make TheAutomationBlog.com one of the sites you choose to visit each week!
I’m also very thankful for Faith, Family, and Freedom, and I’m very much looking forward to having Thanksgiving dinner with my Children and Grandchildren this year!
Rockwell recently released version 21 of Connected Components Workbench, and below I’ll summarize any new and enhanced features:
New and Enhanced Micro800 Features:
Now supports Ethernet implicit I/O messaging for L50E and L70E controllers
The default value of Automatically Invoke Variable/Block Selector changed from True to False
Ease programming of Kinetix5100 and PowerFlex520 drives through canned UDFBs
The Scope setting is now retained after re-opening Variable Selector. Users can click OK to accept and select the tag after entering the tag name when creating new tags in the Variable Selector
New PV800 Features:
The PanelView 800 DesignStation has not been updated and is still at v12.02.
Functional Changes:
Connected Components Workbench version 21.00 has no changes in functionality since the last release.
Installation Notices:
I haven’t looked into these yet, but I did want to share them with you in case you’re affected:
Learn about other releases:
Check out our coverage of other releases of CCW below:
If you would like to view the Connected Components Workbench 21 release notes, head over to Rockwell’s Product Versions webpage and search on the product “Connected Components,” then select Connected Components Workbench from the list.
Then from the versions page, click on the “PDF Document” icon under version 21:
So, what do you think of the new features of Connected Components Workbench 21?
Will you jump in and install v21 right away because of the added features or hardware support?
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Most industrial automation vendors offer modern Programmable Controllers, but not all of them brand their products as PACs.
Take Siemens for instance: You’d be hard pressed to find a PAC feature their S7 line of controllers doesn’t support, and yet they still refer to them as PLCs.
That said, when Rockwell Automation released their next generation of programmable controllers they made the conscious decision to designate them as Programmable Automation Controllers, or PACs, to differentiate them from their previous lines of controllers.
Rockwell’s family of PACs is referred to as its “Logix” line of programmable controllers, and early on it consisted of five different lines:
Note: The Allen-Bradley “MicroLogix” is not considered a PAC nor a member of Rockwell’s “Logix” family. It’s actually based on their SLC-500 line of PLCs, and in my opinion, it would have been less confusing if they had called it the Micro500 instead.
Since then, the ControlLogix and CompactLogix have become the dominate products in the line, with the FlexLogix going out of production back in 2009, and the SoftLogix and DriveLogix finding small niche markets a fraction of the size of the CompactLogix and ControlLogix.
Update: The last version of SoftLogix 5800 released was version 23:
While both the CompactLogix and ControlLogix program with the same software, the ControlLogix supports more demanding applications with higher I/O counts, while the CompactLogix is most often used in smaller systems or on OEM equipment.
The ControlLogix
The ControlLogix was the original Logix platform and was first released back in 1999. It’s a modular system, and at a minimum consists of a Chassis, Power Supply, Controller, I/O modules and/or Communications modules.
Over the years the chassis and power supplies haven’t changed all that much, but several generations of controllers and network communication modules have been released.
The original controller released in 1999 was the 1756-L1, also known as the 5550 controller, and supported firmware versions 1 all the way up to
version 13.
The L1 was followed by the L55, or 5555, which is the only ControlLogix controller with the ability to have its memory expanded. In fact, you never want to order just a 1756-L55 as it will come without any memory at all!
Following the L55 was the L6x, or 556x. It’s notable for the differences between Series A and B, with the Series B having an access door which opens in the opposite direction of all other controllers, as well as having greatly improved battery life due to a redesign of the memory and battery circuit.
The L6x was also the first ControlLogix controller to support CompactFlash cards for use as non-volatile memory, with features similar to the EEPROM functionality of older A-B PLCs.
In more recent times we’ve seen the release of the L7x, or 5570, which replaced the DB9 serial port found on all previous ControlLogix controllers with a USB port.
The L7x also replaced the L6x’s CF card slot with an SD card slot, and in another first it actually comes with a 1GB Industrial SD card. The L7 also improved on all previous ControlLogix controller designs by replacing the need for a battery with the inclusion of a removable super capacitor charging module.
Slot 0: 5580, Slot 1: 5570S
In December of 2015, Rockwell released its new L8x, or 5580 line of ControlLogix controllers.
Although similar to the L7 line in many ways (USB port, SD Card Slot, Super Cap,) the L8 also comes with (1) huge performance improvements (i.e. 5 to 20 times faster program scans) and (2) an embedded 1GB Ethernet port.
All of the above ControlLogix products have catalog numbers beginning with 1756, and are detailed in Rockwell’s ControlLogix Selection Guide.
The CompactLogix
The CompactLogix line comes in two styles: The all-in-one “packaged controllers,” and the more flexible, chassis-less “modular systems.”
Examples of the CompactLogix “packaged controller” include the initial release of this style, the L23 controller, as well as the more recent additions of the L1 and L2 controllers.
Shown above on the left is a 5371 (L1), and on the right a 5323 (L23)
Examples of the “modular systems” include the popular line of L32x and L35x controllers, as well as the well-received L30ER, L33ER, and L36ER controllers.
While the packaged controllers are ready to go out of the box, all the L3xx controllers require a least Power Supply and Right End Cap to function, and most applications will also require several local 1769 Compact I/O.
It should also be noted that the L1, L2 and L3 controllers are also reference to as 5370 controllers, with the “70” indicating they share many of the improvements found in the ControlLogix 5570 line, including:
– Embedded USB port in place of legacy DB9
– SD card slot for use as nonvolatile memory
– 1GB Industrial SD memory card included
– New embedded super cap eliminates the need for a battery
The most recent entry in the CompactLogix family of controllers is the new 5380 line which leaves behind the 1769 architecture for the new 5069 line of I/O. According to Rockwell’s documentation, the key benefits of this I/O platform include a new high-speed backplane for faster I/O updates, as well as expanded support for up to 31 local I/O modules.
In addition to the above, 5380 controllers include a built-in Power Supply and Digital display but retain the SD Card Slot and USB Port found in the 5370 series.
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I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Ron Knight from Prism Systems and John DeTellem from Siemens introduce us to the Cause and Effect Matrix in TIA Portal v17 in Episode 125 of The Automation Podcast.
For more information, check out the “Show Notes” located below the video.
Watch the Podcast:
The Automation Podcast is also available on most Video and Podcasting platforms, and direct links to each can be found here.
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
In my previous article on using the FactoryTalk ViewSE “Command Line,” I showed how simple that feature was to use. In today’s article I’ll cover how to use the Client Keys feature which is also easy to use, but many people just don’t know this feature exists.
What is the client key?
As the name implies, client is related to a client of the Factory Talk View application and the key means ways to access client using the keys of a keyboard.
In short, client keys provides you with “shortcuts” or an easy way to access some of the features within the FTV SE application.
Client Key
To start off, first open Factory Talk View Studio and select any Site Edition application type.
Here, I will open an existing project of parameter passing from my previous article in a network distributed.
I will show you how to close an FTV client with the help of the client key. You can choose a key to open a client, log in, log out, etc.
You can find “Client Keys” under the “Logic and Control” section as shown in the below window.
There are multiple sections under Logic and Control, which we will cover in upcoming articles:
Now double-click on Client Keys to open its properties. The following window will open up.
As shown in the above window, click on “Add”. This will open the following window.
Here, we have to choose a key from a key dropdown. We can also select “Control” and “Shift” modifiers.
I have added a key in the key section. I also have added a label where you can provide a suitable name to match your key functionality. Here, I chose “CloseClient” because I am using this key to close my FTV client.
Now we need to add an action to provide a command to perform an operation based on a key.
You can choose press, release, or repeat action. Here, I will go with press action. To add a command, double-click on the white blank space or click on the three dots (…) on the right side of the action.
Clicking on that will open the following window:
Choose “DisplayClientClose” and hit “Next”. Here, you can see a bunch of lists from which you can choose commands to perform an action based on keys.
The following window will open. Here, choose “current display”.
Click on “Finish” to complete the setup:
We have successfully added the close client command as you can see in the below window.
Click “Ok” and we are done with adding the client key.
Now we will open the client file. Here, I will show you an option that is compulsory to choose in order to execute the key. If you don’t select this, then it won’t work:
In the above-mentioned window, you have to choose “Initial Client Key”. You will find your client’s key in that dropdown. Choose the client key which you created earlier.
You can run your client and test it.
Hope everyone who reads this article finds it helpful! If you have any comments or questions, then post them in the below comment section.
Written by Suhel Patel
Automation Engineer and Freelance Writer
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I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Peng Sang Cau of ATS comes on the show this week to share how Symphoni’s orchestrated motion produces powerful results in Episode 123 of The Automation Podcast.
For more information, check out the “Show Notes” located below the video.
Watch the Podcast:
The Automation Podcast is also available on most Video and Podcasting platforms, and direct links to each can be found here.
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Kristen Kosatka of Rockwell Automation comes on the show this week to share what’s new with Studio 5000 v35 in Episode 122 of The Automation Podcast.
Note: As this episode was not sponsored by the vendor, the video edition is only available to our members here on The Automation Blog and on YouTube. For more information, check out the “Show Notes” located below the video.
Note: As mentioned above, this episode was not sponsored by the vendor so the video edition is a “member only” perk. The below audio edition (also available on major podcasting platforms) is available to the public and supported by ads. To learn more about our membership/supporter options and benefits, click here.
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
This week Steve Mustard and Pascal Girerd come on the show to talk about Soft PLC Myths and Reasons To Use Them Today in Episode 121 of The Automation Podcast.
For more information, check out the “Show Notes” located below the video.
Watch the Podcast:
The Automation Podcast is also available on most Video and Podcasting platforms, and direct links to each can be found here.
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Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
In this article we’ll learn about Parameter Passing in the Factory Talk View SE application.
Why do we Use Parameter Passing?
Parameter Passing is used to reduce the number of screens we use repetitively in our development.
To reduce the number of screens we use parameter passing. We will understand with a practical example.
Let’s get started.
Parameter Passing
First, open Factory Talk view SE. Choose any option (Network Distributed, Network Station, or Local Station).
After choosing the application type, create a new project and create a new HMI server.
After creating a project, you can see the below-mentioned window. Here, you can see parameter passing:
Now, we will create a new display and add a few numeric displays. We will add more numeric displays and create a tag for them.
For example, let’s take five numeric displays and take a few buttons as shown in the below display.
Here, I am taking an example of compressors that are used in plants. Let’s guess that we have four compressors installed in the plant.
Now, we want to check the pressure value of each compressor. Instead of taking multiple displays to show the data of each compressor, we will create a single display as shown below.
Here, I have added five transmitter and few buttons. Buttons will use to pass the parameter to show correct value of each compressor.
For sake of example, I am only taking values of pressure and no other parameters:
Each compressor has five values. So, a single compressor contains five tags. This means that I have to create 20 tags (4 compressors * 5 transmitters).
Creating a Tag:
To create a tag, open HMI Tags.
Now, I will add twenty tags. Here to show you how I am adding tags, I have created a folder named compressor1. Under this folder, I am adding tags as shown in the below window.
Click on compressor1 folder and type in a name, choose analog, provide min and max values, choose memory and write any value you wish to add.
Hit “Accept” to add a tag. We do the same for other tags but will keep different values so, we can see the difference:
As you can see in the below window, our tags are added now.
I created four folders to make it presentable and to understand which tag belongs to which compressor:
Now, double-click on the first pressure transmitter numeric display and add (#1) as a tag name.
Note: To pass the parameter we have to use “#” and follow it with any number as we use “#1”.
We will know in short why we have added such type of tag name. Do the same for other pressure transmitter numeric displays (#2, #3, #4, and #5):
Adding Parameter File:
After adding a tag name in “#” format, open the parameter as shown in the below window:
Here, we will add tags that we created.
We will create four different files as we have four compressors. Double click on the parameter to open the parameter screen.
As you can see that I have linked all tags to each compressor file.
Under parameter, I have added four compressors and linked them with tags we created. Here, you can see that I have linked each tag with “#” which we defined earlier as we discussed:
To add a tag to the parameter file, first, write a number in “#” format and do double click on the same line. Doing that will open up the following popup.
Here, you can find a list of tags that you have created.
Select a tag and hit “ok” to proceed.
That way we can add all the tags which we have created:
After completing creating parameter files, we will move to the main screen where we will define an action to buttons to perform operations.
As shown in the below-attached window, double click on the compressor1 button, which will open up “button properties”.
In “Button properties” choose action then double click on the blank space of press action or you can click on three dots beside the blank space.
Adding Button Properties:
Clicking on press action will open up a new popup:
Here, choose “Display” and click on “Next” to proceed:
Clicking “Next” opens up the above popup. Here, follows the written information on the attached popup:
Choose display, do a checkmark on the parameter file, and choose the parameter file. Here, as we have an open property of compressor1, we will choose compressor1.
Hit “Finish” to complete the procedure.
Follow the same process for the remaining buttons.
Now, we will open the client file to see our result. Click on the icon shown in the below-mentioned window:
PT1
PT2
PT3
PT4
PT5
Compressor1
2.15
3.15
4.15
5.15
6.15
Compressor2
2.65
3.65
4.65
5.65
6.65
Compressor3
2.5
3.5
4.5
5.5
6.5
Compressor4
2
3
4
5
6
Here is the list of values you can see in the attached sheet. These are the values that I gave while creating tags. So, these are tags value.
We will check it by pressing each compressor button to see if the result matches.
Opening a Client:
Result:
Clicking on Compressor1 will show the below results:
Clicking on Compressor2 will show the below results:
Clicking on Compressor3 will show the below results:
Clicking on Compressor4 will show the below results:
This is how parameter passing works. If the number of screens is the same and the object used is also the same then you can use this to save a number of screens.
Hope those reading this article have enjoyed this. If you have any questions or doubts then put them in the below comment section.
Written by Suhel Patel
Automation Engineer and Freelance Writer
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I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
Eliminate commercials and gain access to my weekly full length hands-on, news, and Q&A sessions by becoming a member at The Automation Blog or on YouTube. You'll also find all of my affordable PLC, HMI, and SCADA courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who began programing in the early 80's on the Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Controls and Information Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to become a full time Industrial Automation instructor and mentor at TheAutomationSchool, as well as publishing industry interviews, news, and product how-to’s at TheAutomationBlog.com. If you're interested in my training, mentoring, or becoming a sponsor, please schedule a teams meeting with me via https://calendly.com/shawntierney/business-meeting
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