I am currently dealing with two identical 1769 controllers running similar programs. Each controller has a UDT array utilized for storing recipe data. I am in need of a method to efficiently transfer the data within the array from one controller to the other without the need for manual input, considering the vast amount of data stored. Is there a way to extract and import the array data from one controller to the other seamlessly?
Studio 5000 comes equipped with the Tag Upload/Download tool, which, while slightly cumbersome, is highly effective for managing tags. Additionally, it seems possible to simply duplicate a tag from one ACD file and transfer it to another, making tag management easier and more efficient within Studio 5000.
When both processors are connected on the same network, you can utilize a message instruction in one processor to retrieve data from the other, as long as the UDT format matches.
Unfortunately, I forgot to mention in my initial post that this task must be completed offline since I only possess the .acd files. The two systems are located on opposite ends of the country, which presents a logistical challenge.
YellowRobot noted that the task must be completed offline since only .acd files are available and the two systems are located in different parts of the country. To transfer data, first, create a rung in the file containing the desired data and reference the tag with a COP configuration. Next, export the rung. Then, in the file where changes are needed, import the rung and adjust the tag setting to 'overwrite' instead of 'use existing'. If the tags have different names, rename them to match during the import process. This offline procedure ensures seamless data transfer between the systems.
I discovered a successful solution that worked efficiently. By utilizing the same UDT size for both programs, I was able to save them as L5K files. I simply copied the tag from one program, pasted it onto the tag in the other program, and imported it back into the studio seamlessly. This method helped me integrate the tags without encountering any complications.
Have you considered using the Produced/Consumed data method? It's specifically designed for sharing data between PLCs. With this, any changes made to the produced tag in the "producer" controller will automatically update the consumed tag in the "consumer" controller. This way, you can move your UDT arrays without the need for manual entries. Just make sure your networks can handle the requirements for this form of data exchange.
One potential solution to this would be utilizing the MSG instruction if you're using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation PLCs. The MSG instruction allows you to read or write data from/to a different PLC, making it feasible to transfer UDT array data between your controllers. You would need to set it up correctly, ensuring the source and destination tags correspond to the proper UDT arrays. Although this might require some initial time investment, once set up, data transfer should be pretty seamless. Just remember to monitor the array's length to avoid writing beyond the array bounds.
You might want to consider using the Ethernet/IP protocol for communication between the two controllers. If you set up a Structured Text or Ladder Logic routine in both controllers, you could create a function to send the UDT array data over TCP/IP, enabling seamless data transfer. Additionally, using ACD files to export and import the UDT structures could streamline this process. Just be sure to maintain data integrity and handle any potential discrepancies in the data formats. It might also be helpful to set up some error-checking to ensure that all data is accurately transferred.
You might want to consider using a combination of EtherNet/IP for seamless data transfer along with a data logging feature to export and import your UDT arrays. If both controllers are networked, you could write a simple script that uses a structured text or ladder logic to read the array data from the first controller and send it over the network to the second controller. This way, you can automate the transfer process without manual input. Additionally, using a CSV format for the data export can also make it easier to handle large datasets if you prefer a more straightforward approach. Just make sure to account for any data alignment or type differences!
You might want to consider using the ControlLogix or CompactLogix built-in messaging instructions like MSG (Message) or the copy command if they are on the same Ethernet network. This way, you can set up a routine where one controller sends the UDT array data directly to the other as a block transfer, minimizing manual input and speeding up the process. Just ensure that both controllers are synced in terms of data type definitions, as this will make the transfer much smoother. Another option could be utilizing the Logix Designer software to create an export and import functionality, depending on how you want to manage the data.
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Answer: 1. How can I efficiently transfer UDT array recipe data between two 1769 controllers? - One efficient method to transfer UDT array data between 1769 controllers is to use messaging instructions like CIP message instructions or producer/consumer tags to send the data over the network seamlessly.
Answer: - Yes, you can automate the transfer process by setting up a communication protocol or using industrial communication standards like Ethernet/IP to move the data between the controllers without manual intervention.
Answer: - When transferring a large amount of data, ensure that the network bandwidth and controller processing capabilities are sufficient to handle the data transfer without causing delays or overloading the system. It's also important to verify the data integrity after the transfer process.
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