Hello everyone, I am seeking to enhance my skills by exploring a more efficient approach to setting values in an array of timers. Instead of manually inputting values for each timer, I am considering using an Add-On Instruction (AOI) to streamline the process. My idea is to input the initial timer, the total number of timers, and the desired preset value. I would then implement a move instruction within the AOI logic for each timer or potentially utilize a loop in structured text. However, I have encountered a limitation as I am unable to input a TIMER data type into the AOI. I am currently exploring alternative solutions but welcome any suggestions. Thank you for your input!
To optimize your programming function, use a TIMER as an InOut parameter instead of Input or Output. This will enhance the efficiency and accuracy of your code.
Yes, that was exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!
Utilize the FAL function to easily complete the entire task, by entering the parameters as follows: FAL(Control,?,?,ALL,Timer[Control.POS].PRE,myPREvalue). This efficient method allows for seamless execution of a wide array of functions using concise coding.
Instead of passing the number of timers, it may be more efficient to simply SIZE the array within the AOI. This way, you can easily adjust the array size without the need for additional parameters. Additionally, consider using FAL as a more optimal solution for this scenario.
The technique you shared with me, @Aardwizz, worked like a charm! I'm excited to experiment with it further as it seems like a versatile tool. I'm considering implementing user-selectable values for multiple recipes in my project, and this instruction will simplify the process. Thanks also to @plvlce for sharing another helpful tip that I can add to my toolkit.
Sounds like a smart approach you're thinking of! I've run into the same issue with the TIMER data type limitation in AOIs before. As a workaround, consider using DINT or INT data type for timer values as they can be used within AOI. Then in your AOI code, convert these values back into TIMER format. It adds an extra conversion step, but it's a manageable trade-off to bring more automation and efficiency into your process. Keep coding, you're on the right track!
Hey there, your approach to enhancing efficiency sounds practical and I see where you're hitting a roadblock with the TIMER data type. An alternative could be using an INT or DINT array within the AOI to temporarily hold your timer values. You can then use a MOV instruction to shift them to the actual timers outside the AOI. Essentially, you'd be using the array as a buffer. This workaround operates within the constraints you've outlined and might just do the trick for you. Keep us posted on your progress, always interesting to share such problem-solving journeys!
That sounds like a solid approach! If you're running into limitations with TIMER data types in AOIs, one workaround could be to use an array of integers or DWORDs to hold the preset values and then create instances of the timers outside the AOI, so you can dynamically reference them. You could initialize your timers in a loop after setting your preset values, which would allow for greater flexibility. Also, if your PLC supports it, check if you can leverage user-defined data types to encapsulate both the timer and its preset value—sometimes that can offer a more streamlined solution. Good luck, and I’d love to hear how it works out!
It sounds like you're on the right track with using an AOI to streamline your timer setup! If you can't input a TIMER data type directly, consider using a structure or array to hold your timer values instead. You could pass this structure to the AOI and manage the timers with standard INT or DINT values, then convert them to TIMER within the AOI as needed. Also, leveraging the loop in structured text could definitely help automate the process further. Hope you find a solution that works for you!
Hey! It sounds like you’re on the right track with using an AOI to streamline your timer setup. Since TIMER data types can be a bit tricky with AOIs, have you considered using a structure to hold your timer presets and then passing that structure into the AOI? This way, you could maintain the flexibility of your timers without running into type issues. Also, leveraging arrays within your AOI for timer presets could simplify the logic and make it easier to handle all the timers in a loop. Just a thought! Good luck with it!
It sounds like you're on the right track with using an AOI to simplify your timer setup! If you're struggling with inputting TIMER data types, one workaround could be to use an array of integers to represent the timer values instead, and then convert those integers to timers within your AOI. This way, you'll have more flexibility in managing your timer presets while still maintaining efficiency. It might also be worth looking into any available libraries for your PLC that could provide pre-built timer functions, as they might save you some time. Good luck with your project!
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Answer: - Yes, an AOI can be utilized to streamline the process of setting values in an array of timers. By inputting the initial timer, total number of timers, and desired preset value, you can enhance efficiency in your setup.
Answer: - One limitation you may encounter is the inability to directly input a TIMER data type into an AOI, which can complicate the process of setting values for multiple timers simultaneously.
Answer: - Yes, there are alternative solutions to overcome the limitation of inputting a TIMER data type into an AOI. One approach could involve implementing a move instruction within the AOI logic for each timer or using a loop in structured text to iterate through the array of timers.
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