Accessing Analog Input Module Parameters in Proficy for Programmatic Configuration

Question:

Hello, I am currently working on a project that involves scaling %AI to -10.0 to 10.0 VDC. The input data is stored as a 16-bit Integer and cannot be changed to a REAL format. My goal is to explore the possibility of utilizing the module scaling parameters in the hardware configuration of an analog module using AI_INT blocks. Here are some details about my setup: Project Scope: Brown Field, focusing on software modifications only (no hardware changes for RX3i) Proficy Version: V9.5 Build 7677 CPU: IC695CPE305 CPU firmware: 10.05 AI Module: IC695ALG616 I am interested in accessing the configuration parameters of an analog input module. For instance, by referring to the memory space name IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2 in the CPE where the hardware configuration data is stored, I aim to perform the following: // pseudo code // move module parameter for high-scale engineering units to high scale for the RAW input to AI_INT MOVE(IN := IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2.Channel3.HighScaleEngUnits, OUT => AI_INT_Channel3.SL[3]); // replicate for the low-value scaling of RAW // end pseudo code I am curious if the hardware configuration module parameters, such as IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2.Channel3.HighScaleEngUnits, are accessible in the program. If so, please provide guidance on any necessary setup or configuration to access them. Additionally, clarify where this information may be stored. Any suggestions on alternative methods are appreciated. It would be valuable to understand this process for potential future utilization. I have extensively reviewed several GFK manuals but have only found diagnostic and status data, lacking the specific parameters of interest. Should there be a manual that I may have overlooked, please share your insights. Thank you for your assistance.

Top Replies

I am unable to locate the module's scaling parameters within the logic system. To resolve this, keep the high and low engineering units consistent with the high and low raw data values in the hardware configuration. Subsequently, establish a logic program to properly scale the signal.

Consider implementing scaling in the module configuration using Proficy ME (Machine Edition). The ALG616 module is capable of supporting this feature. Since you are already configuring the module to set the input range for the channel to -10/+10, it would be beneficial to also set the engineering units for scaling purposes.

It appeared to me that the original poster was looking for a way to adjust the hardware configuration scale parameters within the program. In my opinion, if you need to programmatically alter the scale parameters, it's best to avoid doing so within the hardware configuration and instead handle it in the logic of the program. This approach allows for more flexibility and control over the scaling process.

According to Steve Bailey, it seems like the original poster (OP) is looking to adjust the hardware configuration scale parameters within the program. In my opinion, if you want to programmatically modify the scale parameters, it's best not to do the scaling in hardware configuration but rather in the logic. Using the Scale Block in ME within the logic can make it easier to adjust and avoids the need to stop the CPU to load new module configuration when implementing scaling in the channel configuration.

From my understanding, the parameters like IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2.Channel3.HighScaleEngUnits are typically configured into the CPU memory through the hardware configuration of the Proficy Machine Edition. While these are instrumental in configuring the analog modules, they aren't usually directly accessible programmatically. However, you might be able to achieve this indirectly through system memory areas or specific registers, but I think this highly depends on the particularities of your setup. Also worth mentioning that sometimes indirect manipulations can lead to instability, so be sure you test thoroughly. As far as an overlooked manual is concerned, the most comprehensive resource is often the 'CPU Reference Manual'. Please revisit that, especially the sections dedicated to memory types and addresses. If there's a provision for accessing these parameters, it should be there. As an alternative approach, I'd suggest considering normalization of your AI_INT data based on your known scaling factors (-10.0 to 10.0 VDC). You can calculate a multiplier factor to convert AI_INT into the real voltage value. But again, it would help to know more specific details. Happy to delve deeper if you provide additional info!

It seems like you're heading in the right direction. While the hardware configuration module parameters are typically stored within the prescribed memory space of the specific module, in this case, IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2, their accessibility from the program really depends on the specific PLC and its software version. I recommend checking the in-depth technical specification or instruction manuals from the PLC manufacturer. They usually contain detailed memory maps as well as the specific instructions you might need to access them. As an alternative, given the constraints, you might consider changing the scaling in your input logic rather than manipulating the hardware configuration. You would set up your AI_INT block to treat your -10 to 10 VDC as the full -32,768 to 32,767 range of a signed 16-bit integer, then do the mathematical conversion in your logic to translate to your necessary scaled value. It's not quite as neat, but can certainly get the job done in situations where accessibility is a challenge. Lastly, I would also ask the GE support forums or reach out to their technical support - from my experience, they have been very helpful in such circumstances. Sometimes, information like this isn't in the manuals, but may be found in application notes or support documents that are only internally available. I hope this helps and good luck with your project!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How can I access the configuration parameters of an analog input module in Proficy for programmatic configuration?

Answer: - To access the hardware configuration module parameters in Proficy, you can refer to the memory space name where the data is stored. For example, in the provided scenario, IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2.Channel3.HighScaleEngUnits is used to move the module parameter for high-scale engineering units to high scale for the RAW input to AI_INT.

FAQ: 2. Are the hardware configuration module parameters such as IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2.Channel3.HighScaleEngUnits accessible in the program?

Answer: - Yes, the hardware configuration module parameters are accessible in the program. You can use them to configure scaling for analog input modules in your project.

FAQ: 3. What setup or configuration is required to access the hardware configuration module parameters in Proficy?

Answer: - To access the hardware configuration module parameters, you can use the memory space name where the data is stored, as demonstrated in the provided pseudo code. Ensure proper referencing and data types for accurate configuration.

FAQ: 4. Where are the hardware configuration module parameters stored in Proficy?

Answer: - The hardware configuration module parameters are stored in the memory space name associated with the specific module. In the provided scenario, IC695ALG616_Rack1Slot2 is referenced for accessing configuration data for the analog input module.

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