Messages

16

Support Questions / Modbus RTU / TCP addressing

« on: May 09, 2016, 05:33:07 PM »

Hey Guys,

I hope this isn't too far off-topic. If it is, I apologize.

I have, like some other users, had some problems with MODBUS addressing. The project I'm currently working is AdvancedHMI talking to Automation Direct DL05's over MODBUS TCP.

I got tired of trying to figure out the mapping every time an address changed. So, I created a simple VB app to do all the calculations. Later, I may expand it to include other addressing schemes like Allen Bradley, Click, Omron, Etc...

The problem I have, not being a "real" programmer, is how to make the program so that it will install on other computers. In other words, how do I create an installation package that will resolve all the dependencies and optionally install everything for the program to run.

Is there a particular application that will build the whole install for me?

If anyone knows of an on-line tutorial, that's easy to follow, please let me know.

I have included a snapshot of the app.

Thanks, Steve Robertson

17

Additional Components / Re: Some simple panel lights

« on: May 09, 2016, 05:08:53 PM »

I have updated the pilot lights with transparent backgrounds. These are 70x70 pixel PNG format files. The updated ZIP is attached below.

Later I'll upload the same files with higher  resolution.

BTW: Is there any particular file format that is more preferable than the others?

Steve Robertson

18

Additional Components / Some simple panel lights

« on: May 09, 2016, 06:59:39 AM »

Hey guys,

Like many others, I get frustrated because good HMI graphics are really hard to find. I am not an artist or graphics designer but decided to give it a try anyway. If other users like these, I'll create copies with transparent backgrounds or additional colors / textures.

I'm a  rookie VB programmer so am unable (for now) to make more interesting effects. Eventually, I'd like to add some AHMI functionality.

I like large graphics on my HMIs and in order to maintain good resolution created the originals in a 350 x 350 format. These have been reduced to fit the upload restrictions. If anyone needs larger formats, just let me know.

These are in .png format although I'm not sure if this is the best format or not. If there is a consensus on file / graphic formats, they could be changed.

Feel free to use as you see fit.

See yas, Steve Robertson

19

Open Discussion / AHMI ModbusTCP on DL05

« on: October 31, 2015, 08:53:37 PM »

First I just want to say thanks to Archie for all his work on this project. Like many others, I have limited resources and just can't justify spending big bucks on the commercial competitors. I do however expect to purchase some of the additional controls as soon as a specific need arises. 

After some tinkering I finally got AHMI to work with a DL05 over ModbusTCP. While I am not a VB developer, I have been able to create functional HMIs and appreciate the amount of work that goes into a project like this.

I'm currently trying to create my own custom controls but,  the learning curve is pretty steep so it will take a while to gain those skills. In the mean time, I've been using various stock windows controls and overlaying them. By enabling / disabling them, you can still get pretty cool animated controls. It just takes more coding on the backend to switch the graphics back and forth.

I look forward to sharing any cool controls that I create with other forum members.

In the mean time keep hacking away.