Hello everyone, I am seeking assistance in configuring an MSG instruction to transfer 10 bits of data from a compact Logix processor to a micrologix 1400. I have both programs ready to go. My main query is whether it is possible to establish this setup offline and establish a communication path for bidirectional communication. Additionally, how can I achieve this task successfully? Despite attempting tutorials, I have not been able to make it work. Do I require an Ethernet card in the control Logix chassis, or can I simply use the front Ethernet port on both controllers and connect them through a switch for communication? This is my first time navigating such a process, and any guidance offered would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Welcome to the forum! When setting up communication between a Control Logix and a MicroLogix, you will utilize explicit messaging, specifically the MSG instruction. While getting it up and running is fairly simple, there are various factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and adherence to best practices. I recommend searching this forum for discussions on configuring MSG instructions, as well as adding one to your program, clicking on it, and pressing F1 for detailed guidance. The help file offers a wealth of information and examples on setup and usage. Offline setup and online communication with MSG are both possible options. If your Control Logix PLC includes an onboard ethernet port, it is likely a new 1756-L8 CPU model, eliminating the need for a separate ethernet module in the chassis. Take some time to learn more about explicit messaging and experiment with it. If you encounter any challenges, feel free to reach out for assistance.
Welcome to the PLCTalk online community! Are you wondering which PLC model features the MSG instruction - ControlLogix or MicroLogix? The ControlLogix allows you to insert and control an MSG instruction and tag during the RUN mode, as well as make edits online. Conversely, editing an MSG instruction online is not possible with the MicroLogix. Given the choice, opting for the CompactLogix/ControlLogix family controller over the SLC/PLC/MicroLogix is preferred. If you mentioned an integrated Ethernet port in the ControlLogix, it likely belongs to the CompactLogix family. Can you provide the specific part number or a brief description? CIP Message Paths are relatively uncomplicated. For a CompactLogix, the format would be similar to "2, IP" where IP represents the MicroLogix controller's IP address.
The two controllers operate independently as they each have their own Ethernet ports. I will be utilizing these ports along with a switch for communication purposes. One of the controllers does not have message instructions, making it unique in this aspect. Please excuse the lack of part numbers today; I will provide them tomorrow when I return to work. When working with the compact Logix, I encounter a hurdle when prompted to "browse" the I/O tree. Upon right-clicking and selecting a new module from the drop-down menu, I am unsure how to choose the built-in Ethernet port. Instead, I am led to select the micrologix processor. Any advice on how to proceed would be greatly appreciated.
Configuring the "CIP Path" browser in the MSG instruction setup is a straightforward process when the target device is within the I/O tree of the ControlLogix system. However, it is important to note that MicroLogix devices cannot be added to the I/O tree and therefore cannot be selected in the configuration process. In such cases, the CIP path must be entered manually as "2, 192.168.1.10" for a MicroLogix located at IP address 192.168.1.10. CIP Paths consist of pairs of "Port, Address" values, with Port 2 representing the built-in Ethernet port on a CompactLogix system and the IP address of the MicroLogix serving as its network address. This setup simplifies the Path configuration for seamless communication.
Great, I understand now! Thank you for your help! I will give it a try when I return to work tomorrow. To summarize, instead of clicking "browse," enter 2, 192.168.1.15 which is the specific IP address for the Control Logix processor. I will investigate the MicroLogix message instruction to ensure it is properly configured offline.
Hi! Yes, it's entirely possible to establish an offline setup and form a bidirectional communication path. To start, you need an Ethernet module for compact Logix-Like 1769-L32E or L35E. In terms of communication, you're spot on! You can connect these through an Ethernet switch. Make sure that you've assigned different IPs to each processor but within the same subnet. For the MSG instruction, use the 'multihop' option to specify the IP of your destination processor. Do re-verify your settings; sometimes the smallest error can hinder the entire process. Don't get disheartened, it might take a bit of time to understand the intricacies but you'll get there! Good luck!
Hello! Yes, you can certainly establish this setup offline. As for bidirectional communication, you'll need to configure both processors for MSG instructions. In terms of hardware, you shouldn't need an Ethernet card in the ControlLogix chassis. Using the front Ethernet port on both controllers and connecting them via an Ethernet switch should suffice. Make sure the IP addresses are set correctly and that they are on the same subnet. Use RSLogix 500 and 5000 to set up the MSG instructions for MicroLogix and CompactLogix respectively. I recommend going through the ‘Produced and Consumed Tags’ approach for seamless data sharing between the two processors. Also, some finesse in PLC programming is required as you will need to specify the correct filepath addressing for the communication setup. Happy to dive deeper into the setup process if you need more assistance!
Hey there! To set up MSG communication between your CompactLogix and MicroLogix 1400, you can definitely establish the configuration offline, though testing it out live is essential to confirm everything works as expected. Regarding your Ethernet connection, using the front ports on both controllers with a switch should be sufficient; you don’t necessarily need a dedicated Ethernet card in the ControlLogix chassis for that kind of setup. Just ensure both controllers have compatible IP addresses and that the MSG instruction is properly configured with the right parameters for the target device. Don’t forget to check the data types being transferred since that can also lead to issues if there’s a mismatch! Good luck with it—once you get past this hurdle, it’ll become a lot easier!
Hey there! It sounds like an interesting project you’re diving into! Yes, you can set up the MSG instruction for bidirectional communication offline, though testing it live is the best way to ensure everything functions smoothly. You can use the front Ethernet ports on both controllers connected through a switch, which should work fine without needing a dedicated Ethernet card in the ControlLogix chassis—just make sure the IP addresses are configured correctly for both devices. Also, don’t forget to check the message settings (such as connection type and timeout) in your MSG instruction. Good luck, and don't hesitate to reach out if you hit any specific snags!
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Answer: - Yes, it is possible to set up the communication path and configure the MSG instruction offline before establishing the actual communication between the controllers.
Answer: - To achieve bidirectional communication, you need to set up the MSG instruction in both programs to enable data transfer in both directions between the controllers.
Answer: - You can use the front Ethernet port on both controllers and connect them through a switch for communication. An additional Ethernet card in the ControlLogix chassis may not be necessary for this setup.
Answer: - You can refer to tutorials and documentation provided by the controller manufacturers for step-by-step guidance on configuring the MSG instruction for data transfer. Additionally, seeking assistance from experienced users or technical support can also help troubleshoot any issues encountered during the setup process.
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