How to extract Excel data to HMI without scripting: Best method for importing data

Question:

Hello there! I have a question about importing data from individual cells in an Excel file to a HMI without the use of scripts. I am looking to have users input temperature and pressure data into a saved Excel file and have the system extract this information to display on a HMI tag. This data will be used to perform individual tests by the PLC. I am working with a Basic KP700 HMI panel and have noticed that scripting is not available. Is there an alternative method to achieve this task? Thank you.

Top Replies

Utilize Python with Pylogix for Allen-Bradley PLCs and Openpyxl for Excel file management. When working with PLCs, ensure you only use PLC tags and not HMI tags. Be sure to specify the brand of PLC you are working with.

Apologies for the confusion, but the Siemens S7-1200 PLC is the device in question. I am curious to know if the PLC has the capability to run these scripts independently or if they are limited to function blocks for processing?

While I lack personal experience with Siemens, I recommend checking out python-snap7, a Python package designed for Siemens, as well as openpyxl, a Python package tailored for Excel spreadsheets. With these tools, you can easily transfer data from your Excel file to your PLC tags. For step-by-step guidance, you can find helpful tutorials on YouTube showcasing practical examples.

Where is the Excel file saved?

Using a Personal Computer

Hi! While it's true that your KP700 panel might not support direct scripting, you could potentially use a third-party platform like Ignition SCADA, which can parse Excel data and distribute it to various HMIs. Alternatively, you might want to consider a roundabout way involving writing the Excel data to the PLC memory first (using OPC server or similar), from where the HMI can pick the data. Remember, every solution requires careful planning and considering security implications. Good luck!

Hey there! It sounds like you're trying to incorporate some automation in your system, which is definitely complex without scripting. Given the limitations of your Basic KP700 HMI panel, you might benefit from converting your Excel data to .CSV, then use HMI's CSV reader for importing. Should this functionality not be available, consider utilizing a middleware like an OPC server which can read Excel or .CSV files, and is generally compatible with a wide range of HMIs and PLCs. Watch out, this could add some additional complexity, though. Good luck!

Hey there! Based on your requirements, it appears challenging to directly import data from Excel to HMI tags without scripts since KP700 does not support it. However, you can consider a workaround. You might input the data into a SCADA system or OPC server that supports Excel interfacing, and from there you could transfer the data to your HMI panel. In addition, you could consider using custom scripts outside the HMI to transpose the Excel data into a CSV or other file type, which the HMI can directly read. I hope this helps!

It's great that you're exploring ways to connect Excel data to your HMI without scripting! One approach you might consider is saving your Excel data as a CSV file. Many HMI systems, including your Basic KP700, can read CSVs directly, allowing you to set up your HMI tags to point to this file. You could update the CSV file with the new temperature and pressure data, and the HMI can automatically refresh to display the latest information. Just ensure the HMI is configured to read the file at a regular interval, so it stays up to date. Good luck with your project!

Hi there! It sounds like you have an interesting challenge on your hands! Since scripting isn't an option for your Basic KP700 HMI, you might want to explore using Excel's built-in functionality along with a data connection setup. One approach could be saving the Excel file in a format that your HMI can read, like CSV, and then use any available data import features in the HMI's configuration to pull in the required temperature and pressure data. You could also consider using a middleware solution—such as an OPC server—that can bridge the Excel data to the HMI without direct scripting. Just make sure that whatever method you choose is supported by your panel. Good luck!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Can I extract Excel data to a HMI without scripting on a Basic KP700 HMI panel?

Answer: - Yes, you can achieve this without scripting. One alternative method could be using Excel's built-in export functionalities, such as saving the Excel file in a format compatible with the HMI or using Excel's data import/export features.

FAQ: 2. How can users input data into an Excel file for extraction to a HMI tag?

Answer: - Users can input temperature and pressure data into specific cells in the Excel file. The system can then extract this information to display on the HMI tag for further use in performing tests by the PLC.

FAQ: 3. What are some ways to import data from individual cells in Excel to a HMI for testing purposes?

Answer: - In addition to scripting, you can explore options like setting up a data link between the Excel file and the HMI, using Excel's data export features, or configuring the HMI panel to read data directly from the Excel file.

FAQ: 4. Is it possible to automate the extraction of Excel data to the HMI for real-time monitoring?

Answer: - While scripting may not be an option on the Basic KP700 HMI panel, you can explore setting up scheduled data imports from Excel to the HMI or configuring the HMI to refresh data from the Excel file periodically for near real-time monitoring.

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