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Identifying the Origin of a Mysterious Code for an SLC 500 Floodgate System

Question:

I recently received an email from a student containing a mysterious code intended to regulate a floodgate system in RSLogix for an SLC 500. This code appears unique, possibly generated by a machine or AI. Any insights into its origin would be highly valued to prevent it from becoming a common occurrence.

Top Replies

It appears more like a notepad than actual coding.

The code appears to be gibberish at first glance, resembling ladder logic but with a unique twist. Challenge the student to clarify the functionality of the code and share the process behind its creation. We are eager to learn more about it - don't hesitate to share your insights!

The project appears to be well-constructed overall. I would give that student an A grade. However, upon further inspection, it seems to resemble a ladder created using AI technology, albeit with some noticeable flaws.

I recently reviewed a Logix project with a project file size of 106MB containing poorly written logic by a human... but surprisingly, it appears decent to my eyes.

raccjim mentioned that they have received an email from a student containing a code intended for a floodgate system in an SLC 500 programmable logic controller (PLC) using RSLogix. The code appears unfamiliar and may have been generated by a specialized tool or artificial intelligence (AI) application. Any insights on its origin would be highly valuable in order to prevent similar occurrences in the future. If the attachment is a screenshot of the email text, please share the code within a CODE block for further analysis.

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Intriguingly, at my previous workplace, we utilized SLC Logistics for SLC 100/150s and UP/DOC for PLC-2s. Through various methods, we would produce a code printout saved as a plain text file, composed of ASCII characters similar to those sent to a traditional LPT port printer. When viewed in Notepad or MS Word with inconsistent margins and fonts, the output would resemble the aforementioned code.

joseph_e2 mentioned that at their previous workplace, they utilized SLC Logistics for SLC 100/150s and UP/DOC for PLC-2s. By employing different methods, they were able to generate code printouts saved in a plain text file containing ASCII characters. When viewed in applications like Notepad or MS Word with distorted margins and font styles, the printout would appear similar to what was intended. This approach was also applied to SLC500 and PLC5 programs twenty-five years ago. However, the output for SLC500 programs does not resemble the same format. Specifically, it was noted that output coils cannot be placed in series within an SLC500 program.

JesperMP mentioned having experience with converting SLC500 and PLC5 programs 25 years ago. However, the code in question does not seem to be compatible with SLC500 standards. It appears unusual as SLC500 does not typically allow output coils to be placed in series. This discrepancy could be the result of a poorly formatted printout, faulty AI, or another issue. In this scenario, it may be best to advise the student to provide the actual code file for evaluation or risk receiving a failing grade.

For optimal viewing, consider pasting the text into a text editor like Notepad with a fixed width font. The text appears to have been formatted for an 80-character width originally. Don't forget to adjust the text editor settings for better readability.

I appreciate all the responses! I attempted to use Chat GPT and Bing for assistance, but the outcomes varied. I will now review the suggestions provided above to determine the best course of action.

drbitboy questioned whether the image shared by the student was a screenshot of an email or the actual content of the email itself. If it is the latter, a suggestion was made to paste the text into a CODE block for better readability. It turns out that the text was from an Outlook email, and the sender has been experimenting by pasting it into various applications to analyze its contents further.

This young individual shows great potential to become the go-to person you rely on for help during those late-night Sunday emergencies. Their future looks bright in providing timely assistance with a touch of humor.

JesperMP mentioned that they had a similar experience with converting SLC500 and PLC5 programs 25 years ago. However, the current situation seems different. This appears to be designed for SLC500, but it's not typical to have output coils in series in an SLC500 system. In ControlLogix, it is possible to have multiple outputs in series, but RSLogix may not validate two on a rung. Let's not forget about the challenges with Siemens mid-line coils either!

The coding credit goes to "Floodgate Control Frisbee," who single-handedly wrote the code for the project, reminiscent of a Twilight Zone episode.

A user named raccjim mentioned that the text was originally from an Outlook email. The student may have forgotten to 'keep source formatting,' resulting in potentially hours spent meticulously creating a masterpiece in Notepad.

The output produced by chat AI applications like Chat GPT often resembles what you'd find on Bing's search results page. Bing has a tendency to show search results with random snippets of information, additional symbols, and links. It's likely that the user in question utilized a chatbot for their research.

It appears that the CRs and LFs (carriage returns and line-feeds) have been removed from the document. This may have caused formatting issues.

I tried to enter it for fun and got this.I'd like to know what the prompt for this was so i can just enter it and see what it spits out.Youcreate a ladder logic program for an allen bradley slc500 controller that controls a floodgate.Allow for a pushbutton to start the system, a pushbutton to stop the system, a level sensor for determining water level, a limit switch for the floodgate being open, and a pump motor.Make the system start and latch on when PB-start is pressed, and cut off the latch when PB-stopMake the system start the pump if the level falls below 13.2m and stop the pump if the level goes above 13.8monly allow the system to operate if the floodgate is closed and determine that the system is closed via the limit switchCopilotCertainly! Let’s create a ladder logic program for an Allen Bradley SLC500 controller that controls a floodgate. I’ll break down the requirements and provide a step-by-step solution:Inputs:PB-Start: Pushbutton to start the system.PB-Stop: Pushbutton to stop the system.Level Sensor: Determines water level.Limit Switch: Detects whether the floodgate is open or closed.Outputs:Pump Motor: Controls the pump.System Behavior:WhenPB-Startis pressed, the system should start and latch on.WhenPB-Stopis pressed, the latch should be cut off.The pump should start if the water level falls below 13.2 meters.The pump should stop if the water level goes above 13.8 meters.The system should only operate if the floodgate is closed (determined by the limit switch).Here’s a ladder logic program to achieve this:-- Start/Stop Logic --|----[PB-Start]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----[/]----Click to expand...at least OpenAI gives somewhat reasonable looking answers. Bing had an aneurism.

If a student receives a failing grade, it is important to wait for them to provide an explanation before making a final decision. Avoid spending excessive time dwelling on the issue unless necessary.

Regarding this AI conversation, the closest I've come to creating functional code is using Phind. I recognize that it's connected to ChatGPT but more effectively used for generating code. I was able to successfully implement a solution.

In a discussion about AI technology, Tinine expressed their views on code generation using ChatGPT. They noted that while the AI attempts to create ladder representations of code, it struggles due to the lack of a standard format used by humans. This results in the AI essentially being a copycat, providing answers based on common responses rather than understanding the nuances of coding variations. Text-based coding allows for easy copying and pasting, but the complexity of programming languages makes it challenging for AI to accurately generate code.

Artificial intelligence is currently functioning as a clever imitator, capable of providing answers based on popular responses to inquiries. In essence, it can be likened to Google wearing lipstick.

Tinine exclaimed, "Yes, it's like adding lipstick to Google!" Have you heard of the term "Lipstick on a Google"? It's a fitting analogy once you understand its origin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. What is the significance of identifying the origin of the mysterious code for an SLC 500 floodgate system?

Answer: - Understanding the origin of the code is crucial to prevent potential security risks or malfunctions in the floodgate system. It helps in ensuring the safety and proper functioning of the system.

FAQ: 2. How can one determine if the mysterious code was generated by a machine or AI?

Answer: - Analyzing the structure, complexity, and patterns within the code can provide insights into whether it was created by a human programmer or an automated system like AI. Consulting with experts in programming and automation can also be helpful.

FAQ: 3. Why is it important to address the uniqueness of the code to prevent it from becoming common?

Answer: - Ensuring the uniqueness of the code helps in maintaining the integrity and security of the floodgate system. If the code becomes common or widely shared, it could lead to unauthorized access, tampering, or replication of the system, posing potential risks.

FAQ: 4. What steps can be taken to investigate and trace the origin of the mysterious code for an SLC 500 floodgate system?

Answer: - Engaging with the student who sent the email, conducting a thorough examination of the code, seeking assistance from professionals familiar with RSLogix and SLC 500 systems, and possibly utilizing specialized tools for code analysis and tracing can be effective approaches in identifying the code's origin.

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