How to Safely Duplicate and Integrate Routines Without Tag Sharing Concerns

Question:

Hello everyone, I am interested in duplicating a routine and pasting it into my project. I understand that this process needs to be carried out offline. My concern is whether sharing tags between the copied routine and the original routine when going back online will have any impact. I plan to update all tags before integrating the new copied routine into the MainRoutine. I want to avoid any duplicate errors that could disrupt the current routine. This preparation is for integrating a new piece of equipment that will utilize similar logic but will require new tag names in the future.

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It would be beneficial to specify the software you are utilizing, such as Logix/Studio 5000, for a more accurate solution. If indeed using Logix/Studio 5000, here are some steps to follow: 1) Although you cannot directly paste a routine while online, you can export the routine and import it as a new routine in remote run mode. This will allow you to modify the tags during the import process. Alternatively, you can create a new routine and then copy and paste the logic. 2) If the logic has not been executed (for example, by omitting a JSR instruction), making changes to the tags should not cause any issues. When updating tags, ensure that you are replacing the tag and not just renaming it to avoid any complications.

Apologies for the confusion, this pertains to Studio 5000. I am in the process of generating a new routine and will be using the copy and paste method without invoking the JSR. Your assistance is greatly valued.

If you're not well-versed in the 5000, follow these steps to copy and paste efficiently: Enhance your logic by saving the program under a dummy name, then rename the tags for your new routine. After copying the logic and pasting it into the original program, define and create the new tags within the program. This streamlined process will help you navigate the 5000 system seamlessly.

When it comes to copying and pasting routines, there is an easy way to do so by exporting the routine with logic and tags, and then importing it either offline or back into your online program. During the import process, you have the option to substitute tags or create new ones if needed. Additionally, you can finalize all edits or import them as edited rungs. This method can be a workaround for the limitation of not being able to search and replace online code in Rockwell Automation's 5000 software. It's important to be cautious and verify the code before committing it. As for the shared tags between routines, when going back online, they will not affect anything as long as you follow the proper steps. The imported tags will come in without their values, and any potential issues with duplicate bits should not impact existing code since it won't be live. However, keep in mind that certain elements like OTEs, TONs, and ONS's in the new unscanned code may reset their bits on PLC powerup, but this should not be a cause for concern. Your caution is commendable and warrants a thorough explanation.

To enhance confidentiality, I would export the file, edit it by replacing names with aliases, and then import it again. This process ensures consistency with the parameters of the original program.

You're on the right track, planning ahead to update all tags before integrating the copied routine. Having unique tag names is critical to avoiding duplicate errors. When going back online, any shared tags between the original and copied routine should not pose a problem as long as you ensure each tag in your new equipment routine is unique before you integrate it with the MainRoutine. It's also good practice to document the logic and tag changes as you go along for future troubleshooting or system modifications. But remember, always backup your current project state before making any substantial changes, so you have a fallback option. Good luck with your equipment integration!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How should I safely duplicate and integrate routines without causing tag sharing concerns?

Answer: - To safely duplicate and integrate routines without tag sharing concerns, it is recommended to carry out the duplication process offline. Make sure to update all tags before integrating the copied routine into the MainRoutine. This will help avoid any duplicate errors that could disrupt the current routine.

FAQ: 2. What impact can sharing tags between the copied routine and the original routine have when going back online?

Answer: - Sharing tags between the copied routine and the original routine when going back online can lead to potential conflicts and errors. It is crucial to update all tags to ensure smooth integration without any disruptions.

FAQ: 3. How can I prepare for integrating a new piece of equipment that requires new tag names in the future?

Answer: - To prepare for integrating a new piece of equipment that will utilize similar logic but require new tag names in the future, make sure to update all tags in the copied routine before integrating it into the MainRoutine. This proactive approach will help prevent any issues related to tag conflicts or duplicates.

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