Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues with Micro820 Controller in PLC Programming

Question:

Hello all, I am a newcomer to the world of PLC programming and seeking advice on a recent issue I encountered with my Micro820 controller. During a recent programming session, I mistakenly attempted to configure a static IP address while the controller was in DHCP mode. As a result, I inadvertently removed all IP address settings from the controller, causing connectivity issues. The ENET light on the controller is not illuminating, and Windows diagnostics indicate a lack of IP configuration. While troubleshooting, I temporarily adjusted my computer's adapter settings to match the 169.254.xxx.xxx address range and made changes to the DHCP settings on the CCW controller options. I have discovered that communication may be possible through USB, but I am curious if there is a direct connection method using the comms port without an LCD add-on. Any insight or advice on alternative connection methods would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

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I appreciate your response, Tarik1978. In the past, I have successfully used this controller without any issues and I have a basic understanding of the connection process. However, I am currently facing difficulties with reconfiguring it through RS232 DF1. I am unsure why the controller is presenting this problem. Thank you for your input.

Welcome to the PLCTalk forum community! Typically, I start by configuring my computer with a static IP address and then switch to using DHCP to temporarily assign an address to the controller. Keeping your computer in DHCP mode and ending up with an automatic private IP address (like 169.254.x.x) can lead to frustration. I independently searched for the informative Wilborne video on YouTube and found it very helpful. However, it may be best to set that aside for now. If you have truly disabled the controller's Ethernet port (which I didn't know was possible), the most effective way to reset it is by connecting to the RS-232 port. Even though it's a screw-terminal port, a simple cable with the appropriate pins (2,3,5) can be easily wired in if you have an available RS-232 port (either built-in or through a USB adapter).

Thank you Ken for your assistance. I have confirmed that the ethernet port is disabled by testing with another cable and laptop. It's been a productive way to end the night. Tomorrow, I will attempt to configure RS232 with the cables I have on hand. Appreciate your response.

Looking for a simple method to reset the IP address of your Micro800 series PLC with Ethernet? All you need is an SD card. Format the SD card, then create a "configmefirst.txt" file using Wordpad. Include the following lines in the file: [PM][IPA=192.168.2.101][SNM=255.255.255.0][GWA=192.168.2.1][END]. Transfer this file to the SD card, insert it into the PLC, and reboot the Micro. Your PLC will now be programmed with the new IP address. Remember to remove the SD card after. Pay attention to the spacing in the file - any differences may cause it to not work properly. Reset your Micro800 series PLC IP address effortlessly with this method!

Hey there, welcome to the world of PLC programming! You've landed in a common pickle that most of us have found ourselves in at some point. If the ENET light is off, the controller might not be recognizing your Ethernet cable. Have you tried swapping it out? It could be as simple as a faulty cable. In regards to your question about communication via the comms port, yes it's certainly possible. You'll need a null-modem cable to connect your PC's serial port to the controller's serial port, but keep in mind, the communication configuration might vary widely depending on your specific model. You would then need to configure the serial port settings on both the PLC and your computer to allow communication. It's a bit old school, but can be a real lifesaver in these kinds of situations. Good luck!

Hi there, welcome to the world of PLC programming! Firstly, don't let this mishap deter you, it's part of the journey. Regarding your issue, you're correct in thinking that a direct comms port connection could work. An RS-232 serial cable may come in handy here. Also, I strongly recommend using a BOOTP/DHCP server, which can assign or remap your IP. Once you've regained access to the controller, I would avoid meddling with the IP settings unless absolutely necessary. I hope this helps and, don't worry, it's all a learning process!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. What should I do if I accidentally removed all IP address settings from my Micro820 controller?

Answer: Answer: If you have removed all IP address settings from your Micro820 controller, you can try to establish communication through USB or restore the IP settings using the CCW software.

FAQ: 2. How can I troubleshoot connectivity issues with my Micro820 controller?

Answer: Answer: To troubleshoot connectivity issues with your Micro820 controller, you can check the ENET light on the controller, adjust your computer's adapter settings to match the controller's IP address range, and verify DHCP settings in the CCW controller options.

FAQ: 3. Is there a direct connection method to communicate with the Micro820 controller using the comms port without an LCD add-on?

Answer: Answer: While a direct connection method using the comms port without an LCD add-on may not be available, you can explore alternative connection methods such as USB communication to establish a connection with the Micro820 controller.

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