Topics

1

Support Questions / MicroLogix Driver Bug

« on: September 15, 2017, 04:52:08 PM »

I found a small bug in version 3.9.9.24 of the EthernetIPforSLCMicroCom that didn't exist in 3.9.9.20.  I mapped the output bits of a MicroLogix 1400 PLC to a BasicIndicator.  It worked fine for the internal outputs (O:0/x), or the expansion module outputs (O:1/x), but not if both existed in the same form.  When they were in the same form the indicators for the expansion module would all simultaneously flash. 

My solution was to put a bit coil in parallel with the output coil on the PLC and map the bits in AdvancedHMI.

2

Application Showcase / $200 7” Touchscreen

« on: September 12, 2017, 11:00:32 AM »

Goal:
We were looking for a cost effective HMI to add to 10 simple machines. We came up with a 7" touchscreen that cost under $200 + a 3D printed bezel running AdvancedHMI software.  A 10” screen could be upgraded for an extra $56. We added Modbus RTU to several of these screens for communication with an Allen Bradley 440C-CR30-22BBB safety controller for $51.

Limitations / Reliability:
We consider this to be a troubleshooting HMI. The components have not been tested for reliability, so we do not rely on it in a production environment. The first Wintel PC we tried failed after 4 hours. We promptly exchanged it and haven’t had a problem since.

Installation:
Installation takes ( 5/32” holes, (1) 1-1/4” hole, an Ethernet cable, mounting the DC-DC converter, and splicing the power adapter. To power the PC without opening the enclosure a remote power button must be soldered to the PC circuit board.
Parts list:
$109.90 Wintel PC - www.amazon.com/dp/B06W2LWQKC
$69.99 7" HMDI Touchscreen - www.amazon.com/dp/B015E8EDYQ
$7.99 24V to 5V DC/DC Converter - www.amazon.com/dp/B00BWLP88A
$5.00 Ethernet Cable
$3.16 Power Button - http://www.newark.com/multicomp/r13-502ma-05-b/switch-pushbutton-spst-3a-250v/dp/03P2487
$1.16 2-Position Terminal Block - http://www.newark.com/te-connectivity-buchanan/1546670-2/terminal-block-barrier-2-position/dp/43M0165
( Machine Screws
(1) 7/8" Grommet
(1) 3D printed bezel

Options:
$125.99 10” Touchscreen - www.amazon.com/dp/B01M7RRBUT
Modbus RTU Communications with an Allen Bradley 440C-CR30-22BBB:
  $26.99 Keyspan USA-19HS USB to Serial Adapter - www.amazon.com/dp/B0000VYJRY
  $23.95 Imitation Allen Bradley 1761-CBL-PM02 - www.amazon.com/dp/B007J2U4ZS

Version 2 (In Development):
We had to use a different supplier for the PC and Touchscreen for this project.  The Touchscreen seems better, but more difficult to install.  PM me if you want the Inventor files.
$138.99 Tronsmart Windows 10 PC - www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA35256N7317
$84.95 Adafruit 2396 7" Touchscreen (resistive) - www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Adafruit/2396/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMsMyYRRhGMFNhv3KS%2f24HHdw36yTQDZ4FY%3d
$13.99 Right angle HDMI Cable - www.amazon.com/dp/B010LIJDD0/
$4.80 USB Cable - www.amazon.com/dp/B00NH13S44

Here is a link to the Inventor files for the bezel: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/n6fd18irw85qm03/AADycKxvRwcSTjoqAniG178ca?dl=0