When you’ve been using a software package since version 1.0, you’re likely to pick up some tips along the way.
And when you’ve spent twenty years helping others learn to use that software, you also learn which features are obvious and which are not.
With that in mind, in today’s article I’ll share my top two RSLogix 5, 500, and Micro tips.
Tip One:
The first tip relates to sizing the main windows: The project explorer and program file viewer.
Most new users get frustrated with how easy it is to accidentally mess up the sizing of these two windows, with the easiest way being not maximizing RSLogix before opening your program.
The worse part is, most users don’t know there’s a menu item dedicated to quickly restoring each window’s proportions.
To use it, select Arrange from the Window menu:
Then insure “Default Project” is selected, and click on “OK”:
Now your RSLogix windows will appear back in their default positions:
Tip Two:
The second tip has to do with PLC communications.
When new users want to go online, upload, or download, many attempt to use the Online Toolbar as it is prominately displayed at the top left of RSLogix.
However, if the driver and node selection is not correct (completely empty in new projects,) then the user will get an error message that many don’t find very enlightening:
To eliminate this frustration and confusion, I teach new users to always use “Comms – System Comms” menu:
By doing so, the user is presented with an RSWho that displays which drivers he has configured in RSLinx, allowing him to visually browse for his PLC to either go online, upload, or download:
Now those aren’t the only two tips I’ve learned over the years. I’ve actually filled my four plus hour course, PLC Basics, with them.
To find out more about my course which covers RSLogix, RSLinx, and RS Emulate software, as well as the MicroLogix 1000 and 1100 hardware, check out the course webpage at PLC Basics Second Edition
And to see a free video of the above tips, check out the below episode of The Automation Minute:
Until next time, Peace ✌️
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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.
I'm a lifelong Technology Enthusiast who started programing in the early 80's on the new Apple II and VIC-20 personal computers. After earning a degree in Electronics, I worked as a Certified Automation Specialist for 25 years before leaving to focus on teaching at The Automation School, as well as publishing industry news and product how-to’s at The Automation Blog.
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