Our SattCon PLC features a single circuit board with an LCD display and membrane keypad, connected to I/O modules SD32D and XACV-B via a ribbon cable. Unfortunately, the model or part number is not visible on the unit, making it difficult to identify. As we attempt to address a faulty output on the PLC, we have encountered challenges with going online using DOX10 (v 2.1-1). Despite creating a new project and selecting the PLC type as 05, we have faced issues with connecting to the device. Various error messages, such as "unknown PLC type connected," have hindered our progress. We have tried adjusting baud rates and exploring different PLC types within the SC05 family, but have only had success with SC05-45 and SC05-45EREG models. Despite our efforts, we continue to encounter errors during data transmission, often leading to timeout or invalid data messages. We suspect a potential issue with the DOX10 installation, particularly due to missing disks related to Sattcon35. Furthermore, we are unsure if the library setting (labeled as 115 under project settings) is contributing to our connectivity issues. Attempts to manually enter different library files have been unsuccessful. Additionally, we have not made any changes to config.sys or autoexec.bat files, but we acknowledge that missing entries could potentially be causing the problem. Our troubleshooting efforts have spanned across various operating systems, including XP SP3, Windows 95, and a Virtual PC session with Windows 98. Despite using a computer with a native onboard serial port, we have still faced difficulties establishing a stable connection with the PLC. Any assistance in resolving these issues and successfully retrieving the program from the PLC, as well as adjusting the output address, would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your help.
If your controller doesn't support DOX10, consider downloading and trying DOX5 software instead. I successfully used DOX5 on a Windows 95 computer through a DOS emulator. Make sure to verify compatibility before downloading any software.
Thank you for responding. Unfortunately, Sattcon is no longer in operation and ABB does not provide support for their DOX5 product. Even in Sweden, there is no one available who is knowledgeable about it. This makes it extremely difficult to purchase DOX5 or DOX10 anywhere. Any suggestions on where to find Dox5 would be greatly appreciated.
Back in 1998, I participated in a "Sattcon 05" programmable logic controller (PLC) training course utilizing DOX5. The training was conducted by Alfa Laval Automation, UK, the supplier of our plate heat exchangers. If you need assistance, they might be able to help. If not, I have a former colleague who may still have the necessary equipment. Feel free to message me if you're still in a bind, and I will reach out to him. From what I remember, the training was very old-school, solely DOS-based with no Windows interface.
Hello, I will be back in the office on Monday (UK time). Please send me a private message so I can assist you with DOX5. DOX5 operates in real DOS mode (similar to Windows 95) with modifications to the config.sys settings. If the PLC loses battery backup, it defaults to unusual communication settings. I have successfully backed up and restored a CU05-25CPU, but I am unsure of which CPU you have. Your HMI resembles a Sattcon OP45. Best regards, Rob.
Do you own a SattCon OP45 with the text displayed in Danish? This prompts the question: is the machine originally from Denmark? Fortunately, the OP45 can be programmed using DOX10. I will search for my manual to assist with programming.
Hey there, your problem sounds like a tricky one. Based on your error messages, it seems like a compatibility issue between your DOX10 and your PLC unit, rather than the setup of your library files. Given what you've said about having some success with the SC05-45 and SC05-45EREG models, it might be worth double-checking all the versions in play — not just the DOX10 but also your SD32D and XACV-B modules. Another thing to consider is making sure that your serial port configuration is correctly set up. There could be communication errors due to incorrect parity, stop bits, or data bits. As a last resort, you might want to connect with ABB directly to verify if there could be a necessity for specific patches for your operating system. Good luck troubleshooting this, stay patient, and let us know how everything goes!
Given your situation, there could be quite a few things interfering. Let's tackle the simpler things first. I would definitely recommend backing up your work and reinstalling DOX10. Sometimes, installations don't go as planned or files may become corrupted during usage; a fresh install might help rectify the problem if indeed the issue resides within DOX10. As for the library setting under project settings, make sure the library files coincide with your specific PLC model. You mentioned only having success with SC05-45 and SC05-45EREG models, so ensure those library files are being used. Finally, consider inspecting your serial cable. If you only encounter problems during data transmission but can occasionally make a connection, your issues might be physical rather than software-related. Try swapping out your existing serial cable for a new one or, if that’s not feasible, test your current cable's continuity using a multimeter. I hope that gives you somewhere to start. Hang in there! Troubleshooting can be a real hassle, but rest assured, we've all been there.
From your description, it does seem like a configuration problem. It's great that you're methodical with your troubleshooting. As for your DOX10 installation issue, I'd first suggest to ensure that you've installed the software compatibility settings correctly. A common challenge people face when using older software versions on latest operating systems like XP is that it may not be naturally compatible. Try running the software as administrator or under compatibility mode and see if that helps. I see you're questioning the library, which might be causing some inconsistent behavior, you could consider using the 'find versions' function provided in DOX10 to determine whether the library is authentic or correct. Also, regarding your suspicion on config.sys or autoexpress.bat files, these are usually related to software installation aspects like memory management, so a missing entry could definitely vex things. You're doing quite good by testing on different OS, sometimes a minor difference between OS can bring a major challenge. However, make sure you're using the correct or suitable serial-to-USB adapter, as not all of them work well when interfacing with older PLCs. Good luck with your troubleshooting, I hope you manage to sort things out soon!
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Answer: Answer: If the model number is not visible on the unit, you can try checking the documentation or contacting the manufacturer for assistance in identifying the model number of your SattCon PLC.
Answer: Answer: The "unknown PLC type connected" error message could be due to compatibility issues or incorrect settings. Ensure that you have selected the correct PLC type and consider checking the baud rates and other settings for proper communication.
Answer: Answer: To address errors during data transmission, ensure that you have selected the appropriate PLC type, adjusted baud rates, and checked for any issues with the DOX10 installation. Troubleshooting connectivity problems thoroughly can help in resolving timeout or invalid data messages.
Answer: Answer: The library setting labeled as 115 under project settings might impact connectivity. Ensure that the correct library files are selected or consider troubleshooting further by manually entering different library files to resolve any potential issues affecting connectivity.
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