How to Hardwire a Physical Stop Button for Siemens S7-200 PLC HMI Touch Screen Sensitivity Issues

Question:

If your Siemens S7-200 PLC HMI only has a start and stop button, you may be experiencing issues with the touch screen sensitivity on the stop button. In this case, it is possible to hardwire a physical stop button to the PLC input pin as an alternative solution. This can provide a more reliable and user-friendly way to control the stop function on your system.

Top Replies

Certainly. Locate the section on the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) and either swap it out or seamlessly integrate it into the program.

To optimize safety and prevent failures in your process, be sure to wire the button in a Normally Closed configuration. It is common for HMIs to operate using Normally Open logic, so this setup will provide a failsafe system in case of any wire malfunctions. This approach ensures that if the wire is broken, the process will immediately come to a halt.

Are you able to locate the specific bit on the ladder diagram and map it to the I/O pin on the PLC?

In the ladder program for the HMI, the stop button will be represented by an internal bit instead of an I/O bit. In order to connect the stop button, you must allocate a spare Input. You can then substitute the HMI bit with the Input bit in the program, following the advice of robertmee to use a Normally Closed (N/C) stop button. This means that the HMI bit will appear as a N/C in the program (----|/|---), which should be replaced with the Input bit represented as a Normally Open bit (| |).

Parky pointed out that the stop button on the HMI functions as an internal bit rather than an I/O bit. To connect the stop button, you will need an additional spare Input. You can then replace the HMI bit in the ladder program with the Input bit. It is recommended, as mentioned by Robertmee, to use a N/C stop button configuration. In the program, the HMI bit should also be configured as N/C (Normally Closed). For adding a safety magnetic switch door, the program should be adjusted accordingly. When the door is opened, the machines will stop, and when the door is closed, the machines will start. The revised program will look like this: i0.3 Q0.3 = Magnetic switch door // Relay: MY2N 24VDC i0.3 (door closed) Door closed Q0.1 (Motor)---| |-----------------|/|-----------------------( )-----| | -----|Q0.1 (Motor) Please provide guidance on any necessary corrections that need to be made.

Great solution! This approach could really help in environments where there's a lot of vibration or dirt that might affect the touch screen sensitivity of the stop button over time. What's more, having a tactile feedback from the physical button gives operators more confidence in controlling the machine. Always a plus for safety and efficiency!

I agree with you wholeheartedly. PLCs are such crucial components, so, having a touch sensitive stop button sometimes creates inconsistency with its function—especially in industrial conditions where the operators might have gloved hands. Hardwiring a physical stop button could indeed bring a real world touch plus reliability. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that getting a professional's help in doing so would be in one's best interest to avoid any possible mishandling or errors.

That's a great workaround! Hardwiring a physical stop button definitely sounds like it could enhance the reliability, especially in environments where touch screens might not respond well. Plus, having a tangible button can be more intuitive for operators in high-pressure situations. Just make sure to incorporate safety standards for the wiring to ensure everything functions smoothly and safely!

That's a great workaround! Hardwiring a physical stop button can definitely enhance reliability, especially in environments where touch sensitivity might become a problem. Plus, having a tactile button can make it easier for operators to quickly access the stop function without needing to worry about screen responsiveness. Just make sure to comply with safety standards, as a physical button should be easily accessible and clearly marked for quick identification in case of emergencies.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How can I address touch screen sensitivity issues with the stop button on my Siemens S7-200 PLC HMI?

Answer: One alternative solution is to hardwire a physical stop button to the PLC input pin. This can offer a more reliable way to control the stop function.

FAQ: 2. What are the benefits of hardwiring a physical stop button for the PLC HMI touch screen sensitivity issues?

Answer: Hardwiring a physical stop button can provide a more user-friendly and dependable method to control the stop function, especially if touch screen sensitivity is causing problems.

FAQ: 3. Is it difficult to hardwire a physical stop button to the Siemens S7-200 PLC for this purpose?

Answer: Hardwiring a physical stop button to the PLC input pin can be a relatively straightforward process, and it can offer a practical solution to touch screen sensitivity issues on the stop button.

FAQ: 4. Will hardwiring a physical stop button affect the existing start and stop button functions on the HMI?

Answer: Hardwiring a physical stop button should not affect the existing start and stop button functions on the HMI. It is simply an additional control method to address touch screen sensitivity issues specifically related to the stop button.

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