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Best PLC to use in a College Course?

By
Shawn Tierney
-

In today’s edition of “Insight’s Inbox” we answer a reader’s question about what we think would be the best PLC to use in a college course.

Reader Question:

My professor reached out to me to ask which PLC I would recommend he purchase with some school funds he had left over, and I wanted to get your opinion?

Insight’s Answer:

Great to hear your professor is looking to add PLCs to his curriculum!

The first option is the ultimate budget option: The Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1000.

I go into the gory details of why I recommend this Allen-Bradley PLC to beginners in the below article, but in short it programs like most other A-B PLCs, is inexpensive at ~$150, can be programmed with fee software, and even has a free emulator:

More information about the MicroLogix 1000 and its free software can be found in the below articles:

The $150 model has 6 inputs and 4 outputs and a Mini Din serial port for programming. Low cost programming cables for it can be found here:

I also know someone who sells a very affordable training course that would get your professor up to speed quickly:

The second option is like the first but with a more powerful Ethernet processor: The Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1100

Upgrade from the 1000 to the 1100 and you will be spending roughly $500 per PLC, but you’ll also be getting Ethernet communications, online editing, Floating Point and Long Integers, a well as expansion I/O capabilities.

They also program with the free software mentioned above, and more info about that can be found below:

Note before discussion some more expensive options:

Before going into the more expensive options, I would like to note that the more money you have, the more the Educational Program from Rockwell makes sense.

For around $200 you get a one year, one license toolkit of all their software along with 8-5 M-F tech support (for the instructor.)

But the best part is you get a crazy good hardware and software discount!

The down side? You have to call you local rep and fill in a form (i.e. no big deal!) It can also take a couple of weeks to process.

More info on this program can be found below:

For those with a larger budget, I would recommend the Allen-Bradley CompactLogix line

Specifically the CompactLogix L1 family, which likely will run you $1400 a unit, and the lowest cost software to program it (assuming you are not in the EDU program getting an 80% discount) is going to run around $900 per seat.

Your local distributor is likely to be able to order “Starter Packs” that combine the software and hardware for a reduced price.

More info below:

A word on Input and Output Devices

The hot new thing is Ethernet/IP, and everyone is putting VFD’s, Valve Stacks, and all kinds of I/O devices on Ethernet, including remote racks of I/O.

So if you had a larger budget and are purchasing a CompactLogix, I would recommend also getting an A-B PowerFlex 525 VFD, Point I/O remote I/O, and an SMC valve stack.

As far as digital I/O, I recommend diffused and retro-reflective photo eyes, inductive proxes, 22mm push buttons and pilot lights, as well as assorted relays and contactors/motor starters.

For analog I/O, I would try and stay with 4-20ma in and out, with the most common devices having to do with speed, position, temperature and flow control.

Update: If you have your own question you’d like to ask, please post it as a comment on a related post here at TheAutomationBlog.com

Hope this helps!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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FTLinx, RSLinx Enterprise, ViewME – DH-485 Serial Part 3 (M2E33)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn how to add a PanelView Plus to a Data Highway 485 network using its serial port in part three of our three part series:


Below are the links related to this three part series:

Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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FTLinx, RSLinx Enterprise, ViewME – DH-485 Serial Part 2 (M2E32)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn how to add a PanelView Plus to a Data Highway 485 network using its serial port in part two of our three part series:


Below are the links related to this three part series:

Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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FTLinx, RSLinx Enterprise, ViewME – DH-485 Serial Part 1 (M2E31)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn how to add a PanelView Plus to a Data Highway 485 network using its serial port in part one of our three part series:


Below are the links related to this three part series:

Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Free

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Get free Tech Support and Training Courses:

Since launching my own business, I’ve received many requests for free email, phone, and in person technical support.

I’ve also had quite a few request for free or low cost vouchers for my training courses.

So in today’s article entitled “Free,” I list the top free resources available:

Free Tech Support:

As an automation consultant I offer free consulting via my website, TheAutomationBlog.com.

If you have a technical question, just find an existing article on a related topic and post your question as a comment.

Then if I or another reader knows the answer you’ll often get a response within a day or two.

What about free email, phone, and live consulting?

I currently do not offer free consulting via email, phone, or in-person.

I do offer paid consulting services at a rate of $100 per hour, and you can find out more about the services I’m currently offering at InsightsInAutomation.com/consulting

NOTE: Rockwell does offer some free support services, and last time I checked they included:

  • Free telephone tech support on Component devices including the Micro800, as well as on Software Activations
  • Free online tech support via chat on Component devices including the Micro800, as well as on Software Activations at http://www.ab.com
  • Thousands of free Tech Notes in their knowledgebase at http://www.ab.com
  • Free user to user support forums at http://www.ab.com
  • And many Rockwell distributors also offer their customers free phone and in-person support as well

Free and Discounted Training Courses:

As an automation trainer I offer free and discounted training courses on my website, TheAutomationSchool.com.

And while not all of my courses are offered for free, many are listed at discounted rates.

I do also offer custom online paid training services at a rate of $100 per hour, and you can find out more about the training services I currently offer at InsightsInAutomation.com/consulting

NOTE: Rockwell does offer some free training courses, and last time I checked they included:

  • Local Rockwell “on tour” courses
  • Regional Rockwell Automation on the Move trade shows
  • Annual Automation Fair
  • Note: Most of the training documents from the above sessions can be downloaded for free from http://www.ab.com
  • Note: Many Rockwell distributors also offer free and low cost training to their customers.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Best PLC To Learn With (M2E30)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

What is the best PLC to learn with?

I tell you my opinion in episode 30 of The Automation Minute, Season 2.


Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Insights Inbox: How do I edit a PanelView Plus .MER file?

By
Shawn Tierney
-

In today’s edition of “Insight’s Inbox” we answer a reader’s question about editing PanelView Plus .MER runtime files.

Reader Question:

Is it possible to edit a PanelView Plus .MER file? And if it is, how is it done?

Insight’s Answer:

FTViewME-Ap-Man-Restore-MER
Restoring MERs that allow conversion is done with the Application Manager

UPDATE: See my latest article on this subject HERE.

The answer is unfortunately not the same for all versions of View Studio or .MER runtime files.

In fact, the answer can range from “easily using the Application Manager,” to “not possible at all.”

Because of this, in my training courses and seminars I stress the importance of backing up View Machine Edition projects to APA files, the preferred format to use for backing up and sharing projects.

Which .MER files can be easily restored?

Case 1: Version 6.1 and newer .MERs

FTViewME-Create-MER-w-Conv
When you create a runtime, if it’s supported you’ll see an option to “always allow conversion”

If you have a .MER runtime file (1) created with FactoryTalk View Studio version 6.1 or newer, and (2) created with “always allow conversion” enabled, then restoring the .MER runtime file using the same or newer version of View Studio and the included Application Manager utility should be no problem at all.

So regardless of whether you’re running on a 32bit or 64bit Windows operating system, as long as your copy of View Studio and the .MER runtime file are 6.1 or newer, and “always allow conversion” was selected when the .MER runtime file was created, you shouldn’t have any issues restoring the .MER runtime file back into an edit-able project.

Case 2: Version 5 and newer .MERs

FTViewME-Legacy-Pre6-App
While you may be able to restore 32bit MERs on Windows 7 64 bit, you won’t be able to open them

The second case in which you’ll have no issues editing an .MER runtime file is (1) if it was created with View Studio version 5 and newer, and (2) when it was created “allow conversion” was enabled, and (3) it was created on, and is being restored on, a Windows 32bit OS.

The reason for the 32bit OS qualifier is that MER files of version 5 through 6 have an internal 32bit database which can’t be opened in View Studio running on a 64 bit OS.

So while you can restore .MER runtime files version 5 through 6 that were created on a 32 bit OS with “always allow conversion” enabled, because those projects contain a 32bit database you won’t be able to open the restored project in View Studio on that 64bit OS without first running the 32 to 64 bit conversion utility on a 32bit OS.

Additionally, View Studio can’t create version 5 through 6 runtimes that allow conversion when View Studio is running on a 64 bit OS.

Put another way, while you can create version 5 through 6 .MER runtime files with View Studio running on a Windows 64 bit OS, those runtimes won’t allow for conversion back to a project.

Need to know how to convert 32 bit projects to 64 bit? Check out these articles:

Which .MERs files can’t be restored?

There are three different reasons why a .MER runtime file cannot be converted or restored back into an edit-able View Studio project:

FTViewME-Create-MER-no-Conv
When you create a 32bit MER runtime file on a 64bit OS, “always allow conversion” is not an option
  • The .MER file was created without allowing conversion, or was passworded and you don’t have the password.
  • The .MER file was created using version 6.1 or newer of View Studio on a Windows 64 bit operating system, BUT was created as an older “pre 6.1” .MER runtime file, in which case “allow conversion” is not an option.
  • The version of View Studio or the .MER runtime file is a legacy version not supporting conversion (i.e. versions prior to 5.0)

While I know of no workaround for the first and second cases mentioned above, there is a possible workaround for the third case.

However, I should also note that the workaround involves a process that has proven to be too complicated for many who’ve I’ve shared it with.

FTViewME-Ap-Man-NotSupported-MER
Before version 5, no MERs supported conversion

And beside being complicated, the process also requires a 32bit Windows OS, a ViewME PC Runtime license, and doesn’t recover the text heavy configurations including alarms, parameters, macros and datalog configurations.

But if you’re in a jam and need to recover graphics and tags from a pre-5.0 .MER runtime file, this recovery process could be very helpful, and you may find your local Rockwell representative willing to help you with those conversions.

FTViewME-Ap-Man-Protected-MER
If the person creating the MER didn’t check “always allow conversion” you won’t be able to restore it

For more information about the above mentioned procedure, see our previous article here:

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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What’s Next

By
Shawn Tierney
-

The Last Few Months…

You may have noticed the frequency of my blogs, videos, and podcasts has slowed over the last two months as I split my time between a WWTP SACADA project, and creating my very first PanelView course, PVP Basics.

That course, which is currently on sale at TheAutomationSchool.com, took far longer to create than I had hoped, and after completing it I came to the conclusion that I needed to make some upgrades to my studio.

So What’s Next?

Now that I’ve completed the studio upgrades, my next goal is to produce several more PLC courses, with much of the needed PLC equipment now on order.

Why the focus on training courses?

Well, while I truly enjoy blogging and creating helpful how to videos, neither of those nor my Patreon backers and other donations come even close to paying the bills, whereas my training course have that potential.

So with that in mind, I’m focusing the next several weeks to updating my existing PLC Basics (intro to PLCs) course, as well as creating new courses on the Micro 800, MicroLogix, SLC-500, PLC-5, and Compact/ControlLogix.

Each will be a couple of hours in length, and I estimate each will take 40-80 hours to complete (it’s truly mind boggling how much time it takes to record, edit, render, and publish a video course!)

Each of these new courses will also forgo the raw basics of “what is ladder logic” and “what is a Bit, Byte, and Word” found in my PLC Basics course.

Instead, they will be designed for someone who has already taken that course, or has already programed another PLC, and wants to learn how to use the specific series covered by each course.

Hopefully if everything works out as planned I’ll be posting weekly updates here.

If you would like to submit your suggestions on what should be covered (which will also garner you a 50% off coupon!) check out any of the coming soon courses over at TheAutomationSchool.com as each contains a feedback form.

Well, that’s it for today’s blog post, have a great weekend!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Who is “The Automation Guy”

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Hello and welcome to the TheAutomationGuy.com, a blog of somewhat random musings from the author of The Automation Blog, Podcast, Minute and School (that’s me.)

Let me start my first post by addressing the elephant in the room: Why did I give myself the title of “The Automation Guy?”

Well, aside form the fact that I’m the current owner of TheAutomationGuy.com.

Half a lifetime ago and only a year out of college I was very fortunate to find a job in the Automation Industry as an Rockwell Automation Distributor Automation Specialist.

That’s a fancy title for the employee who gets sent off to factory training a couple weeks a year so he’s able to answer customer product questions.

And I’m sure happens to most technical people supporting sales, I was often introduced as the “expert,” or “guru,” which I always felt implied that I had super-human levels of expertise and knowledge.

So to counter those lofty and misleading titles which my salepeople just seemed unable to stop using, I got in the habit of prempting them by introducing myself as a PLC, HMI, or SCADA “GUY” whenever I met with a new client

Fast forward a quarter century and I’m now self employed as an Automation Blogger, Trainer, and Consultant running multiple websites which start with “TheAutomation,” and it just sort of made sense to give myself the title of TheAutomationGuy.

That’s not to say I know everything about automation, or represent the world of automation  in any way shape or form.

It just simply reflects the fact that I’m the “automation guy” who writes PLC, HMI, and SCADA articles on TheAutomationBlog.com, publishes videos and podcast at TheAutomationMinute.com and TheAutomationPodcast.com, and teaches automation courses at TheAutomationSchool.com.

And of course, I’m also the current owner of TheAutomationGuy.com too 🙂

Well that’sit for today – hope you all have a great rest of your week!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Rockwell moves to Electronic Software Delivery

By
Shawn Tierney
-
FactoryTalk ViewStudio Machine Edition Software Package Contents

For the last few years when you ordered software from Rockwell Automation, in addition to being shipped the physical media you also received a confirmation email with activation information and download link.

FactoryTalk ViewStudio Machine Edition Software Package ContentsThis gave facilities with high speed internet access the ability to download, install, and activate newly purchased software within twenty four hours of placing their order.

And while I found those order confirmation emails extremely helpful, I also took comfort in the fact that when I ordered Rockwell Software I would also receive the physical media and activation document.

So earlier this week when I learned that Rockwell has switched to just Electronic Software Delivery for existing software part numbers (those ending in ENE,) I knew I for one would consider ordering future software packages using the new catalog numbers (ending in ENM) since those are now the only part numbers which include “physical media.”

Going Digital

Rockwell Software Order Confirmation EmailThat’s not to say I think Rockwell’s move is necessarily a bad thing.

While I’ve been a late adopter in switching from physical media to digital content in my personal life (music, games, etc,) the ease of access and immediate availability of the digital versions have slowly been luring me away from always buying the physical editions.

And while the process of logging into Rockwell’s website and finding your software can be described as “tedious” when compared to Amazon or Steam, making use of the Rockwell order confirmation email couldn’t be easier: Click the link, type in your activation info, and download the desired version.

So while I hate to pay more today for the same software and physical media that I purchase last month, in the end the move to electronic delivery of software and media seems to the way of the future.

What do you think?

So, what do you think about this change?

Will you pay $100 more for each Rockwell Software package you purchase to continue to receive the physical media, or are you content with just receiving the digital download?

Let me know your thoughts by using the post a comment or question link below.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Rockwell’s New Compact GuardLogix Now Available

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Currently featured on AB.com, the new Compact GuardLogix 5370 is now available and in factory stock.

AF15-Compact-GuardLogixThese new “safety” programmable controllers are essentially a “modern” version of Rockwell’s Compact Guardlogix line, now based on their popular 5370 architecture.

Users who migrate to these new models gain a USB port, SD Card slot (SD card included,) Dual Ethernet Ports (with DLR Support) and an embedded energy storage device (no battery needed,) all of which is also found in the standard 5370 CompactLogix processors.

These are also the first Compact GuardLogix processors which support Studio 5000 Logix Designer, currently with firmware available for version 28.

However, when migrating from the original Compact Guardlogix (L43S, L45s,) users will no longer have a built-in DB9 Serial Port, Keyed Run Switch, CompactFlash memory card slot, or support for RSLogix 5000.

More details about these three new models can be found in the below table:

PN# ESP* Availabiliy** Stnd Mem Safe Mem Max Local IO Max Eth. Nodes
1769-L30ERMS $3,609 Fact. Stock 1mb .5mb 8 16
1769-L33ERMS $4,415 Fact. Stock 2mb 1mb 16 32
1769-L36ERMS $5,357 Fact. Stock 3mb 1.5mb 30 48

 

Note: ESP* represents an “estimated street price” and may not represent the price your company will pay.

Note: Availability** represents the vendor’s stated availability of the products at the time this article was written.

For more details about Rockwell’s new Compact GuardLogix, check out the below documentation:

Credit Due: Special thanks to our reader Jeff S. for sending in a tip about this product’s pending release, as well as the availability of its documentation in Rockwell’s Literature Library. Thanks Jeff!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Homemade six servo robot solves Rubik’s cube in 1 second

By
Shawn Tierney
-

I thought this was so cool that I had to step away from the recording my PanelView Plus training course for just a moment to share it with you.

In the below video, Jay Flatland and his friend Paul Rose demonstrate their homemade Rubik’s cube solving six servo robot, controlled by a combination Linux system and Arduino chip.

 

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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What software do I need to program CompactLogix or ControlLogix?

By
Shawn Tierney
-

To program a CompactLogix or ControlLogix processor you’re going to need a copy of Studio 5000 or RSLogix 5000.

If you don’t have a copy, you can purchase it from your local Rockwell representative, and in most cases you’ll received a link to download the software within a day (see this article for more information.)

You can also request a thirty day “temporary activation” if you’re just trying the software out, or if waiting on a purchase order to be issued (more information about that in this article.)

When you do purchase a copy of Studio 5000, you not only get the lastest shipping version of Studio 5000, but you also get several previous versions of both Studio 5000 and RSLogix 5000 (details here)

Studio-5000-Discs

Why you may need both packages

5000-VersionsFirst, you’ll need to use Studio 5000 to go online or program Logix processors with firmware revisions of 21 or higher.

But you’ll also need to use RSLogix 5000 to go online or program Logix processors with firmware revisions of 20 and lower.

Note: To find out which versions your processor supports, check out this article.

Why you may need multiple versions of each

When you go to install the software, you’ll need to install all the MAJOR versions of RSLogix 5000 and Studio 5000 that match the firmware versions of “Logix” controllers you’re going to need to connect to.

Note: The MINOR versions of the Software and Firmware do not need to match because the software and firmware minor versions increment at different intervals when software or firmware issues are found and corrected, and therefore they are not related or dependent on each other.

For example, if you have one ControlLogix processor loaded with firmware version 16, and another with 21, and a CompactLogix loaded with firmware version 24, you would want to install RSLogix 5000 version 16, as well as Studio 5000 version 21 and 24.

Logix-Firmware-Versions

Note: The requirement of the major software version matching the controller’s major firmware version is often referred to as “lock step” compatibility, so you’ll want to be sure it gets installed as well.

What else you’ll need

It should also be noted that when you install either RSLogix or Studio 5000, RSLinx Classic Lite will also be installed.

This is the communication software required for RSLogix or Studio 5000 to communicate to your Logix processors.

Which package or bundle to buy

RSLogix and Studio 5000 licenses come in several different bundles or packages, each supporting a different range of products and features.

For those who will only be using the lower cost CompactLogix, they can purchase the lower cost Studio 5000 Mini or Lite edition.

RSLogix-Studio-5000-Mini-and-Lite

But for those who also need to program the more expensive ControlLogix processors, they will need the more expensive Standard, Full, or Pro version of the software which supports all of the CompactLogix and ControlLogix processors.

RSLogix-Studio-5000-Standard-and-Full

Note: I don’t often recommend the “Pro” version as it is bundled with software most users will never need. For more information see this article.

Well that’s it for today’s article about the software used to program CompactLogix and ControlLogix processors.

If you’d like to learn more about the CompactLogix and ControlLogix, check out my new free PAC Getting Started course at TheAutomationSchool.com

And if you have any comments or questions about this article please feel free to share them with us by using the “post a comment or question” link below.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Firmware – What you need to know, and how to get CompactLogix and ControlLogix Firmware

By
Shawn Tierney
-

In today’s article we’ll discuss what you need to know about CompactLogix and ControlLogix firmware, as well as how to get it.

Each Allen-Bradley Logix processor supports many different firmware revisions.

And it’s often the case that you’ll load the newest firmware supported into new processors used in new applications.

However, when replacing an existing processor you’ll often want to load the same firmware in the new processor that was present in the processor being replaced.

But, does your new processor support the older firmware?

To find out, you’re going to have to do a little homework.

First, you need to look at your Logix processor, or the box it came in, and find the catalog number and series letter.

ControlLogix-L55-Label

Next, open the newest version of RSLogix or Studio 5000 you have, and under the “Help” menu select “Release Notes.”

RSLogix-5000-Help-Release-Notes

When the release notes open, scroll down a few pages and you’ll find a table that lists all the Logix procesosrs ever made, and their compatible firmware versions.

RSLogix-5000-Release-Notes-Firmware-Table

If you don’t have RSLogix or Studio 5000 available, or need to download a version of firmware not included on your disc, you can actually find the above information and download the firmware from Rockwell’s website.

To do so, follow these eight steps:

Step 1) First, navigate to http://www.ab.com, which will redirect you to ab.RockwellAutomation.com.

Step 2) Then on the left hand side of the main page, select the Product Compatibility and Download Center (PCDC) link.

AB-PCDC-Link

Step 3) Once the PCDC page loads, in the “Views” section select “Available Versions”

PCDC-Available-Versions

Step 4) Now type in your processor catalog number, select it from the list, and select the series letter if prompted.

PCDC-Available-Versions-TypeinCat

PCDC-Available-Versions-SelectSeries

Step 5) Next you should see a complete listing of all the firmware available for your controller.

PCDC-Available-Versions-Versions

Step 6) To download firmware, first click on the gray rectangle below the red arrow and version number of the firmware you wish to download.

PCDC-Available-Versions-DownloadIcon

Step 7) Then in the popup window select the firmware as shown:

PCDC-Available-Versions-SelectFirmware

Step 8) After you login with a free Rockwell account, and accept Rockwell’s terms, your be presented with the choice of a managed or direct download:

PCDC-Available-Versions-DownloadChoice

I hope the above article about finding which versions of firmware your Logix processor supports, as well as how to download that firmware from Rockwell’s website was helpful.

If you’d like to learn more about Rockwell’s CompactLogix and ControlLogix PACs, and see a video of the above procedure, check out my new free PAC Getting Started course at TheAutomationSchool.com

And if you have any comments or questions about this article, please feel free to share them with us by using the “post a comment or question” link below.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Firmware – How to download it for CompactLogix and ControlLogix in 2016 (M2E29)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn where and how to download firmware for your CompactLogix and ControlLogix processors in episode 29 of The Automation Minute Season 2:


Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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The CompactLogix and ControlLogix PACs

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Today most major automation vendors have a Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) line, and Rockwell Automation is no exception with its CompactLogix and ControlLogix products.

In fact, Rockwell’s “Logix” line of Programmable Automation Controllers are the most popular line of PACs used in North America today.

Automation-Fair-2014-Z-Panel2Early on, Rockwell’s “Logix” controllers consisted of five different offerings:

  • ControlLogix (1756)
  • FlexLogix (1794)
  • CompactLogix (1769)
  • Softlogix (1789)
  • DriveLogix (20D)

Note: The Allen-Bradley “MicroLogix” is not considered a PAC nor a member of Rockwell’s “Logix” platform. 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.

Automation-Fair-2014-Z-Panel3Since 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.

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.

ControlLogix-HardwareIt’s a modular system, and at a minimum consists of a Chassis, Power Supply, Processor, 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 processors and network communication modules have been released.

The original processor released in 1999 was the 1756-L1, also know as the 5550 processor, and supported firmware versions 1 all the way up to
version 13

1756-L6xThe L1 was followed by the L55, or 5555, which is the only ControlLogix processor with expandable memory. In fact, you never want to order just a 1756-L55 as it will comes without any memory at all!

Following the L55 was the L6x, or 556x. It’s notable for coming in two major versions, with the series B version having greatly improved battery life due to a redesign of the memory circuit.

The L6x was also the first ControlLogix processor to support CompactFlash for non-volatile memory, with features similar to the EEPROM functionality of older PLCs.

1756-L7xIn more recent times we’ve seen the release of the L7x, or 5570, which replaced the DB9 serial port found on all previous ControlLogix processors with a USB port.

The L7x also replaced the L6x’s CF card slot with an SD slot, and even comes with a 1GB industrial SD card for use as non-volatile memory.

The L7 also improved on all previous ControlLogix processor designs by replacing the need for a battery with the inclusion of a removable super capacitor charging module.

And just last month Rockwell released its new L8x, or 5580 line of ControlLogix processors.

Although similar to the L7 line in many ways (USB port, SD Card Slot, Super Cap,) the L8 also comes with huge performance improvements (i.e. 5 to 20 times faster program scans) as well as an embedded 1GB Ethernet port.

For more details about Rockwell’s new 5580 ControlLogix, see our previous article here.

All of the above ControlLogix products have catalog numbers beginning with 1756, and are detailed in Rockwell’s ControlLogix Selection Guide.

The CompactLogix

CompactLogix-L1-L23The CompactLogix line comes in two styles: The all-in-one packaged controller, and the modular chassis-less system

Examples of the CompactLogix packaged controller include the last generation’s L23 controller, as well as the current generation’s L1xER and L2xER processors.

1769-L35EExamples of the modular system include the last generation’s popular line of L32x and L35x processors, as well as the well received current generation L30ER, L33ER, and L36ER processors.

While the packaged controllers are ready to go out of the bock, all of the modular L3 models do require at a minimum a Power Supply as well as a Right End Cap, and most often will be paired with local Compact I/O.

It should also be noted that the current generation of L1, L2, and L3 CompactLogix processors are also know as the 5370 line, with the “70” indicating they share many of the improvements found in the ControlLogix L7 or 5570 processor, including:

  • CompactLogix-L36ERMEmbedded 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

All of the above mentioned CompactLogix products have catalog numbers which start with 1769, and are detailed in Rockwell’s CompactLogix selection guide.

Learning more about CompactLogix and ControlLogix

If you’d like to learn more about Rockwell’s CompactLogix and ControlLogix PACs, check out my new free PAC Getting Started course at TheAutomationSchool.com.

In it, I show you how to setup communications, flash firmware, download programs, and even how to use a timer and sequencer to automate your projects, as well as how to message data over Ethernet.

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Firmware – Which versions does your CompactLogix and ControlLogix support (M2E28)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn how to find out which firmware versions your CompactLogix and ControlLogix support in episode 28 of The Automation Minute Season 2.


Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Latest posts by Shawn Tierney (see all)

What is a Programmable Automation Controller? (PAC)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Most major automation vendors have a Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) line, and today I’ll attempt to add some clarity as to what a PAC is, and how it differs from the classic PLC.

What is a “Programmable Automation Controller?”

CPX-L1-on-WorkbenchMost people you meet in the automation industry are very comfortable describing what a Programmable Logic Control, or PLC, is.

However, many have difficulty distinguishing between the capabilities of a Programmable Logic Control, and the newer Programmable Automation Controller.

In fact, I’ve often been guilty myself of referring to PACs generically as PLCs just to avoid confusing a client, and even worse having to interrupt a presentation to attempt to describe the somewhat intangible difference between the two.

A Gradual Evolution

PLC-5-on-WorkbenchMuch of the confusion behind the difference between the capabilities of PLCs versus PACs is a direct result of the evolution from PLC to PAC being a gradual one.

For example, the attributes you’d most often find vendors using to describe their PACs today, like the ability to control large quantities of distributed I/O, or being capable of controlling process and batching systems, have previously been achieved with higher end PLCs like the Allen-Bradley PLC-5.

That said, there are certain features that most current generation PACs have which many legacy PLCs do not.

These include built-in support for most (if not all) IEC-61131-3 languages,  as well as enhanced instruction sets to address motion, batch, and process control applications.

5 ControlLogix-5580In contrast, most first generation PLCs produced in the early 1970s programmed exclusively in Ladder Logic, with limited instruction sets designed primarily to address discrete applications.

Most PACs also support a user generated tag database, as opposed to legacy PLCs which had rigidly named data and register files.

My PAC Definition

In conclusion, I believe the best way to describe a Programmable Automation Controller would be to first acknowledge that like a Programmable Logic Controller, it has the capability of automating discrete processes through the use of Ladder Logic.

1 CompactLogix-5380That said, most PACs also include much more extensive support of the IEC 61131 standard, including being based on a muti-tasking architecture supporting multiple programming language, as well as a user definable tag database with wide ranging data type support.

And most PACs also include extensive instruction sets to accommodate controlling a wide range of automation applications including discrete, motion, batch, and process.

Well, that’s my thoughts on what a PAC is.

If you think I left anything out, or have a different take, please feel free to leave you comments below uisng the “post a comment or question” form.

And if you’d like to learn more about PACs, check out my free PAC Getting Started course at TheAutomationSchool.com

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

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Latest posts by Shawn Tierney (see all)

ControlLogix, CompactLogix – Programming Software (M2E27)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn what versions of RSLogix and Studio 5000 support the CompactLogix and ControlLogix in episode 27 of The Automation Minute Season 2:


Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

shawntierney avatar
Latest posts by Shawn Tierney (see all)

ControlLogix, CompactLogix – Hardware (M2E26)

By
Shawn Tierney
-

Learn about the CompactLogix and ControlLogix hardware in episode 26 of The Automation Minute Season 2:


Check out our Video Collection #1 here, which includes the first five seasons of our shows (over 280 episodes and 29 hours!) for just $30!

Until next time, Peace ✌️ 

If you enjoy this episode please give it a Like, and consider Sharing as this is the best way for us to find new guests to come on the show.

Shawn M Tierney
Technology Enthusiast & Content Creator

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.

shawntierney avatar
Latest posts by Shawn Tierney (see all)

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