Properly Polling MicroLogix Controller with AOIs: ControlLogix Pathway and SCADA System Development

Question:

Hello everyone, I have a few queries regarding "addressing AOIs" and the appropriate pathway for polling a MicroLogix controller in an EIP setup. I am exploring whether the ControlLogix pathway is equally crucial in this scenario. The objective is to poll addresses internally to develop a system similar to SCADA. Some questions to consider when discussing this with the client include the use of a switch, the nature of the connection (direct or indirect), among others. Any recommendations on this matter would be greatly appreciated. Currently, I am able to ping the PLC and the EIP port is accessible. Additionally, I have received a tag list from the client, which includes AOIs (please see the image link). I need clarification on whether the client should extract directly from the AOI in Studio so that I can address it accurately. [AOI Imgur link]

Top Replies

I have resolved the problem with the pathway and was able to successfully use 1,0. However, I still require assistance with AOI addressing.

In the image, a valve AOI named SCISol is depicted with multiple instances such as esValve_4926 and esValve_4928. If these instances are present, the externally accessible elements of the AOI can be accessed, such as esValve_4926.Auto, esValve_4926.FaultTimer.PRE, and esValve_4926.Position1In. Explore the various elements within this AOI for further understanding.

5618 suggested their understanding of the photo, identifying a valve AOI labeled SCISol with different instances such as esValve_4926, esValve_4928, and so on. In this scenario, elements of the AOI that are externally accessible could be accessed as esValve_4926.Auto, esValve_4926.FaultTimer.PRE, esValve_4926.Position1In, or any other existing elements within the AOI. This process may involve some trial and error before getting it right. Click to learn more about accessing and utilizing the AOI elements.

The most accurate method to determine the specific information is to have the tags extracted directly from the AOI.

To enhance your understanding of the AOI, it is recommended to obtain a program example from the supplier containing a detailed list and descriptions of its elements. Within the program, navigate to the controller tags (or local tags if applicable) and expand the valve tags to explore the available elements. By studying the AOI definition, you can gain insight into the logic behind the AOI and grasp the functionality of the tags. However, access to the full AOI logic may be restricted if the supplier has concerns about potential theft of their proprietary valve AOI design.

From what I understand, you're wanting to poll a MicroLogix controller using an EIP setup, and are trying to emulate something akin to a SCADA system. The pathway is crucial, be it ControlLogix or CompactLogix, depending on the complexity of your system and its requirements. A direct connection could give better results in terms of latency, but an indirect one might offer other benefits such as modularity, easier maintenance and troubleshooting reliability. As for your question on AOIs, yes, it's typically better for the client to extract it directly from Studio 5000. This way, you can ensure that all the necessary tag information and their addresses are correctly and accurately captured. If you were to do this manually, there are more chances of errors cropping up, especially if there's a huge list of tags like you've indicated. Be aware that AOIs can be a bit tricky to handle when integrating with SCADA, so tread carefully and make sure to monitor consistently as you progress with the build.

From what I understand, whether you take the ControlLogix path or MicroLogix controller via EIP, the most significant factor to consider isn't which pathway to use, it's ensuring you have clear communication protocol. If you can ping the PLC and the EIP port is operational, that's a good starting point. Regarding your addressing AOIs question, it is indeed beneficial if your client can extract directly from the AOI in Studio. This can help prevent discrepancies between the data collected and the data received, yielding more accurate information for your SCADA-like system development. Let's discuss further if you have more questions to dig deep into the subject.

Your objective to develop a system similar to SCADA using MicroLogix is indeed feasible, and ControlLogix pathway could be a possible route, but it's not the only one. When dealing with Embedded Ethernet/IP, you can use the ControlLogix path as long as you discern the gap between CIP and EIP and effectively handle the applications. Regarding the connection, a direct connection might help streamline the process, but considering a smart switch could provide more stability and control over your network, especially in a scaled or complex system. For your second query about AOIs, I recommend the client to directly extract it from the studio. Extracting directly from the AOI in Studio helps ensure accuracy and eliminates room for errors or omissions. But remember, there could be caveats depending on how your AOIs are set up, so make sure you do a thorough check. The image link you provided does not give me the complete picture, but I hope this general advice helps.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. What is the significance of addressing AOIs in a MicroLogix controller within an EIP setup?

Answer: - Addressing AOIs is crucial for efficiently polling a MicroLogix controller in an EIP setup, especially when developing a system similar to SCADA. It allows for organized access to specific data structures and functionalities within the controller.

FAQ: 2. Is the ControlLogix pathway essential when polling a MicroLogix controller for SCADA system development?

Answer: - While exploring the appropriate pathway for polling a MicroLogix controller, considering the ControlLogix pathway can be beneficial in ensuring seamless communication and integration within the system. It helps in efficiently managing data flow and processing.

FAQ: 3. What considerations should be taken into account when discussing the use of a switch and the nature of the connection for polling a MicroLogix controller?

Answer: - When discussing the use of a switch and the nature of the connection for polling a MicroLogix controller, factors such as network topology, data transmission requirements, and system reliability should be considered. It is important to ensure a stable and secure connection for uninterrupted data exchange.

FAQ: 4. How can AOIs be effectively extracted from the client's tag list in Studio for accurate addressing?

Answer: - To accurately address AOIs in Studio based on the client's tag list, it is recommended to extract the AOIs directly and map them accordingly within the development environment. This ensures that the data from AOIs is accessed and utilized correctly

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