How to Properly Utilize Soft Keys on Horner XE 102 PLC

Question:

I have successfully programmed my PLC to interact with function keys F1 - F10, but I am struggling to utilize the soft keys located beside the screen without resorting to the cumbersome "Screen Jump" function. Additionally, I expected the up/down keys to navigate between screens, but they do not seem to be functioning as intended. Are there any seasoned users who can provide guidance on how to properly utilize these keys? Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, rmb.

Top Replies

User rmb550 inquired about how to make use of the F1 - F10 keys in a program to communicate with the PLC. They also expressed difficulty in utilizing the soft keys beside the screen, aside from resorting to the "Screen Jump" technique. Additionally, they found that the up/down keys did not navigate between screens as expected. Seeking guidance from experienced users, rmb550 asked for assistance in addressing these issues. To utilize the keys in the program, you can address them using "%K1" for F1, "%K2" for F2, and so forth. On the XLe setup/system screen, you can configure the keys as momentary or toggles. When navigating through read/write fields on screens, use the Up/Down keys to move between objects. Keep in mind that the F keys act as number inputs for fields, with F1 representing 1, F2 representing 2, and so on. Hopefully, these tips will prove helpful in resolving your concerns.

User rmb550 is seeking assistance in navigating through screens on a PLC program. They have managed to make F1 - F10 interact with the PLC but are struggling with using the soft keys located next to the screen. Despite trying the "Screen Jump" feature, the up/down keys do not seem to move between screens as expected. If you are a seasoned user familiar with PLCs, could you provide guidance on how to effectively utilize the soft keys next to the screen? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated by rmb550.

rmb550 asked for assistance on how to utilize the soft keys next to the screen in a more efficient manner, aside from relying on the "Screen Jump" function. Additionally, the up/down keys are not performing as expected when moving from screen to screen. Any seasoned users who can provide guidance on this issue? The screen selection can be achieved through PLC logic by using output coils such as "%D1" for screen #1, "%D2" for screen #2, and so on when the rung is active. It is recommended to implement one-shots and latches for handling alarms and preventing screen changes until all conditions are cleared.

Thank you for the helpful responses. I have successfully utilized the K1 to K10 keys, which correspond to F1 to F10, without any issues. Additionally, I have navigated writable objects on screens using the UP & DOWN/ LEFT & RIGHT keys. The F keys have been utilized to toggle %D addresses and navigate to different screens controlled by the PLC program. I am curious about the functionality of the four SOFT keys, two on each side of the screen. Aside from placing a screen jump object next to these keys, I am unsure of how to utilize them effectively. Any insights would be appreciated. Thank you once again. - rmb

rmb550 expressed gratitude for the helpful responses received. The K1 to K10 keys have been successfully equated to F1 to F10 without any issues. Navigating through writable objects on screens using the UP & DOWN/ LEFT & RIGHT keys has also been smooth. Additionally, the F keys have been utilized to toggle %D addresses for screen transitions under PLC program control. However, the query now pertains to the four SOFT keys located on each side of the screen. How can these keys be effectively utilized? Apart from associating a screen jump object with a key, the purpose of the sidekeys seems unclear. The sidekeys are crucial for executing screen jumps. When setting up a screen jump, it can be linked to the nearest sidekey (one of the four) or directed towards another button. This configuration can be adjusted in the properties window while creating the screen.

Hi rmb, it's great to hear that you were able to program your PLC to interact with function keys. For using soft keys, I've found that assigning each one to a distinct function/screen provides better control, as opposed to using them all for the "Screen Jump" function. When it comes to the up/down keys, it could be a matter of software update or a need for a specific key definition to be set in your PLC programming for navigation. Make sure to check your PLC's manual to see if there's any special setup for this. Also ensure firmware is updated. Good luck!

Hey rmb, consider customizing your soft keys for navigational purposes, each serving different functions such as going to the main screen, advancing to the next, or retreating to the previous. As for the up and down keys, I've found that they often work in conjunction with others - check your PLC model’s user manual thoroughly for key combinations, it's a goldmine for this kind of stuff. You might have simply overlooked something. If things still don't pan out, it might be time to look into software updates or have a conversation with your PLC manufacturer about potential glitches. Keep wrestling with it, programming PLCs is a learning curve indeed!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How can I properly utilize the soft keys on the Horner XE 102 PLC without using the "Screen Jump" function?

Answer: - Answer: To utilize the soft keys without the "Screen Jump" function, you can assign specific functions or actions to each soft key within your PLC program. This way, you can directly access those functions by pressing the corresponding soft key.

FAQ: 2. Why are the up/down keys not navigating between screens on my Horner XE 102 PLC?

Answer: - Answer: The up/down keys on the Horner XE 102 PLC may need to be configured within your program to navigate between screens. Check your PLC program to ensure that the up/down keys are set up to perform the screen navigation function.

FAQ: 3. How can I enhance my navigation experience on the Horner XE 102 PLC with the soft keys?

Answer: - Answer: You can enhance navigation on the Horner XE 102 PLC by customizing the soft keys to perform specific tasks or functions that streamline your operations. Consider programming the soft keys to directly access commonly used functions or screens for improved efficiency.

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