Hello everyone, I am in the process of upgrading my PLC system from the SLC 5/03 to the SLC 5/05 model. Could anyone share the essential hardware requirements for this transition? Currently, my setup includes a processor, I/O modules, and three stepper modules. In addition to upgrading the PLC, I also need to enhance the HMI screen, moving from a PanelView 550 to a PanelView Plus 700. My plan is to acquire the SLC 5/05 processor, a Rail Switch, and the PanelView Plus 700 HMI. However, I am uncertain whether I need DeviceNet to connect my stepper modules. I would greatly appreciate any guidance or insights from those experienced in this area. Thank you all in advance for your help! As someone relatively new to this industry, I am also seeking assistance with FactoryTalk View and the process of downloading screens to the PanelView Plus 700.
I recommend consulting with the local distributor to gather their expert suggestions. One potential solution is to retain the existing SCL rack and convert it into a remote rack utilizing the original hardware. However, without specific project details, it’s challenging to provide tailored recommendations, as there are numerous methods to achieve the desired outcome.
Upgrading from SLC 5/03 to SLC 5/05: Hardware Requirements and Considerations Hello everyone, I am in the process of upgrading my PLC system from an SLC 5/03 to an SLC 5/05 and would appreciate guidance on the necessary hardware requirements. Currently, my setup includes a processor, I/O modules, and three stepper modules. I’ve been tasked with not only upgrading the SLC from 5/03 to 5/05 but also enhancing the HMI, transitioning from a PanelView 550 to a PanelView Plus 700. I'm considering that I need the SLC 5/05 processor, a Rail Switch, and the PanelView Plus 700 HMI. However, I'm uncertain if I need DeviceNet to connect my stepper modules. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all! As a newcomer to this industry, I'm also trying to familiarize myself with FactoryTalk View and the process of downloading screens to the PanelView Plus 700. While upgrading to the SLC 5/05 may provide some functional enhancements, I encourage considering a more comprehensive upgrade. It's essential for your organization to invest in current technologies rather than spending resources on outdated systems. Best regards, Plastic For your reference, Rockwell Automation has highlighted the benefits of the SLC 500 controllers, particularly the Bulletin 1747 SLC™ 500 control platform, which is applicable in diverse applications. However, it’s important to note that several SLC 500 Bulletin numbers have been discontinued and are no longer available for purchase. Customers are now advised to transition to the more advanced CompactLogix™ 5370 or 5380 control platforms. Furthermore, the Bulletin 1747 SLC™ 5/01 and 5/02 series controllers have also reached end-of-life status and can no longer be sold. As of August 31, 2018, the Bulletin 1746 SLC 5/03 8K series controllers were discontinued. To assist with this transition, we recommend migrating to the CompactLogix 5370 or CompactLogix 5380 platform. In today’s competitive market environment, finding ways to maximize your existing automation investments is crucial for sustaining success throughout your operational lifecycle.
I believe Plastic raises a valid concern. If you're already in the process of an upgrade, opting for a product with a known short lifespan may not be the wisest solution. This is the perfect opportunity to make a decisive choice. While the 5/05 model is still on the market and I understand the hesitation to switch programming software, consider the historical context... time is of the essence!
Overall, you've got everything right! Simply swap out the SLC-5/03 controller for the SLC-5/05 controller and connect your Human-Machine Interface (HMI) using a suitable Ethernet switch. What specific stepper modules are you working with? If you're planning to upgrade to CompactLogix, it's important to pay attention to those stepper modules, as they are the most unique component in your setup.
When considering an upgrade from a SLC 5/03 processor to an SLC 5/05, the most compelling reason typically lies in transitioning from serial to Ethernet communication. However, this transformation can also lead to significant performance improvements. In my current setup, I have 12 SLC processors and 10 different older PanelView HMIs integrated into a sophisticated SWPHS (Strap|Wrap|Pallet|Handling|System). These devices originally operated as SLC 5/03s using the DH-485 protocol. Due to the heavy messaging load, we frequently experienced system lockups, necessitating manual cycling of one or more processors into Run Mode to clear their communication buffers. Despite my best efforts to optimize the current system and mitigate these disruptions, the performance limitations of the DH-485 network became increasingly apparent. Over the past couple of years, I've been progressively replacing the SLC 5/03 processors with SLC 5/05 models, which allow for Ethernet communication. So far, I've successfully upgraded 5 out of the 12 processors—an ongoing challenge due to downtime constraints. Additionally, two of the HMIs have been upgraded to PanelView Plus 1000 models operating on Ethernet. All devices are now connected through a Stratix 8000 switch, leading to a remarkable reduction in lockup incidents, now occurring only every few months. I've already purchased the remaining seven processors along with the necessary converted programs to finalize the upgrade. We source second-hand processors at a significant discount from Lektronix through a trade-in program with our old SLC 5/03s, making this upgrade financially viable compared to a complete system overhaul—a move that may be unnecessarily complicated for our specific application. GaryS mentioned a potential option to maintain the existing SLC rack as a remote chassis using the original hardware. However, it's essential to tread carefully when contemplating the conversion of an existing SLC chassis to a distributed architecture for newer platforms. You can substitute the processor in slot 0 with a 1747-AENTR Ethernet communications adapter, allowing it to manage the existing chassis modules. Yet, the AENTR does not support certain modules, such as the 1747-SN, which our setup relies on for controlling multiple remote I/O racks in the field. This would necessitate their upgrade to Ethernet compatibility. Furthermore, the 1747-SDN DeviceNet scanner module is similarly unsupported, affecting those chassis as well. Many of the PowerFlex 40 drives would require replacing their COMM-D modules with Ethernet COMM-E modules, and adequate switch port capacity must be maintained. The Ethernet node count could significantly influence the selection of the new processor. Moreover, since the AENTR does not support local expansion chassis, you would need an additional AENTR for any local modules beyond the first 13, which could involve complications. The AENTR's incompatibility with third-party 1746 modules can be crucial, particularly if specialty modules like stepper motors are involved. Additionally, the acquisition and steep learning curve associated with the Logix 5000 software—if not already on hand—could pose a significant challenge for financially constrained or inexperienced users. These deliberations could sway your decision towards either a partial migration or a comprehensive overhaul, which could become more complex and costly than initially anticipated, especially if external help is required. This perspective is not meant to deter you from considering the migration of an SLC platform, whether partially or fully, but rather to highlight scenarios where simply upgrading the processor or another component might be a more sensible route. Returning to your specific case, it appears that you are inclined towards transitioning to Ethernet with the SLC 5/05 processor, recognizing it as a straightforward solution. The potential upgrade to the PanelView Plus 700 would further facilitate Ethernet integration for the HMI, which is a valid plan. Regarding your mention of a "Rail Switch," I assume you are referencing a DIN rail-mounted network switch. There is a broad variety of options available, so if you have a specific model in mind and seek advice, please share its details for a more tailored assessment. It's worth noting that there are more advanced alternatives available for migrating to an Ethernet-based system. Similar to the considerations outlined earlier, you'd want to evaluate whether it is necessary or feasible to upgrade both hardware and software levels to a platform like Logix 5000. You may lack access to Logix 5000 software or any experience with it. If you already have the SLC 5/05 processor, it may be more prudent to keep things simple with this minor enhancement. The program conversion process is generally straightforward, but you must pay careful attention to any Message (MSG) instructions within the program, as these may be configured for serial communication. They do not automatically adapt to Ethernet settings upon changing the controller to SLC 5/05. Instead of modifying existing MSG configurations, recreate them from scratch while keeping track of the original data table addresses. Regarding the three stepper modules you mentioned—if they are local 1746-HSTP1 stepper modules—they are compatible with all SLC processors. Their motion profiles operate independently of the processor scan cycle, so the specific processor choice is less critical beyond memory considerations. I do not foresee any significant issues with these modules functioning as intended under the SLC 5/05 processor. If you are considering transitioning to the CompactLogix platform, AMCI offers 1769 stepper modules, including the 3602, which might suit your needs: [AMCI 3602 CompactLogix Motion Controller](https://www.amci.com/plc-automation-products/3602-compactlogix-motion-controller). Best regards, George
Hi there! It sounds like you’re embarking on an exciting upgrade! For the SLC 5/05, you definitely want to ensure compatibility with your existing I/O and stepper modules, but DeviceNet might not be strictly necessary unless your modules specifically require it for communication. Also, when upgrading to the PanelView Plus 700, make sure you have FactoryTalk View ME, as it’s crucial for developing and downloading your HMI screens. Don’t forget to check your wiring and power supply requirements too, since the Plus series has different needs than the older PanelView 550. Good luck with your transition, and feel free to reach out if you run into specific questions while working through the setup!
Hey there! Upgrading from the SLC 5/03 to the SLC 5/05 is a great move, and your selection of hardware looks solid. For your stepper modules, if they’re currently hardwired, you may not need DeviceNet unless you're planning on expanding or adding more connectivity options in the future. Just make sure to check the compatibility with your existing modules. Regarding the PanelView Plus 700, you'll definitely need FactoryTalk View Studio to create and download your screens, and it's pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. There are plenty of tutorials online that can help you through the initial setup and screen creation process. Good luck with your upgrade!
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