Troubleshooting GE 90-30 PLC Logic with SFC: Solutions Needed

Question:

I managed to salvage a Fanuc servo motor and drive from a discarded lathe barfeeder and am looking to get it running for a DIY project. To communicate with the servo drive/amplifier, I have the necessary GE 90-30 PLC with the I/O Master Link module. I aim to control basic functions like start/stop, speed control, and possibly reading the encoder. I am currently trying to decipher the existing logic on the 90-30 PLC to understand the previous programming commands, even though it may be challenging to interpret without comments. The Proficy software is showing an error message when I attempt to upload the logic from the PLC, indicating a configuration version mismatch with the software. It seems I may need Logicmaster 90 with the SFC extension, which is no longer easily accessible. If unable to obtain the extension, I am considering wiping the PLC's memory with Proficy Machine Edition and creating my own logic. Would this work despite the current presence of SFC logic? Any suggestions or downloads for the SFC extension would be greatly appreciated.

Top Replies

First and foremost, let's address the question: Can you reset and clear the memory to start fresh? The answer is yes. SFC, which was an additional feature to Logicmaster, was originally distributed on a separate 3.5" floppy disk. Installation had to be done directly from the floppy disk, as it could not be transferred to the computer's hard drive. It is worth noting that you may encounter issues when trying to use a USB drive instead of a floppy. For the serial communications driver to function properly, Logicmaster must be running on a 32-bit operating system and your computer must have a physical serial port. Challenges may arise when using a USB/serial converter with Logicmaster, as some users experience intermittent connection drops. If you are interested in obtaining the SFC installer, please reach out to me, and I will check my software archives. Additionally, even if you do not have the SFC option installed, it is possible to upload the SFC program and hardware configuration using Logicmaster and print it out. If you need access to Logicmaster, I have it stored on my Google Drive. Feel free to send me a private message with your email address so I can add you to the sharing list.

Steve Bailey confirmed that it is possible to reset the memory and start fresh. The SFC software was an additional feature to Logicmaster that required installation from a separate 3.5" floppy disk. It was not possible to transfer the contents to the computer's hard drive. It is recommended to run Logicmaster on a 32-bit operating system with a real serial port for the serial communications driver to function properly. Using a USB/serial converter may result in occasional connection drops. Additionally, it is noted that the SFC program and hardware configuration can be uploaded and printed in Logicmaster, even without the SFC option installed. If interested, the files can be shared via Google Drive by sending a private message with an email address. Considering the outdated computer requirements for Logicmaster, starting fresh with a clean slate by wiping the PLC may be a simpler option for troubleshooting and learning PLC programming.

Your DIY project sounds awesome! It's definitely possible to control those sorts of functionalities with the GE 90-30 PLC. As for your software issue, it'd be great if you could get your hands on Logicmaster 90 with the SFC extension, but it's pretty hard to find now. If you can't, wiping the memory and starting fresh is a viable option. The Proficy Machine Edition will be able to handle basic logic commands without the presence of SFC logic. It may take a little longer, but creating your own logic from scratch can be a rich learning experience! While it may seem more complex initially, you'll have a better understanding of how everything works, which could prove useful for any troubleshooting or future enhancements. Good luck!

It's exciting to see someone repurpose old machinery for a new project! I'm no expert in Fanuc or GE 90-30 PLC, but I have tinkered with similar devices in the past. As for your concern, Logicmaster 90 is indeed harder to find now due to its obsolescence. If you're unable to obtain the SFC extension, starting from scratch with Proficy Machine Edition could work. You'll essentially be making your personalized logic, but do ensure it matches up with the physical setups (like output/input wiring). Before starting fresh, though, I highly recommend preserving the existing logic by documenting it as much as possible or at least taking a backup. It could be a lifesaver if something goes wrong down the line! Also, remember to connect with forums specific to GE PLCs or Fanuc Servo Motors – they might have folks who have faced similar challenges and can provide more specific insights.

Congrats on the salvage! Now, in response to your question, it seems there's some confusion regarding the software compatibility. It's indeed a challenge when dealing with aged programs like Logicmaster 90 and newer ones like Proficy. If you're encountering a version mismatch error, it's likely due to the PLC's firmware version not compatible with your Proficy software. So, getting your hands on Logicmaster 90 with the SFC extension might be the most straight-forward solution. However, if this isn't possible, wiping the PLC's memory and creating your own logic can certainly be done, although this requires a good understanding of the PLC and its interaction with your servo motor. As an alternative, you could consider getting help from an experienced PLC programmer or look for an online course/tutorial that can guide you through the process. I can't provide any downloads for the SFC extension, but seeking out forums dedicated to PLC or automation might provide a solution. Good luck with the project!

That sounds like an exciting project! Wiping the PLC's memory and starting fresh with your logic could definitely work, but just be aware that if you do that, you'll lose all the existing logic, including any SFC elements. As for obtaining the SFC extension, it can be tricky since it's become somewhat of a rare find; you might want to check out forums or communities focused on GE PLCs, as someone there might have a copy they're willing to share. Additionally, think about reaching out to GE directly—sometimes they can help you with legacy software. Good luck with your project; I’m sure it’ll be a fun learning experience!

It sounds like you're diving into a really interesting project! If you're considering wiping the PLC's memory, just be aware that all existing configurations and logic will be lost, including any valuable information the previous setup might have. Before you wipe it, you could try reaching out to forums or online communities dedicated to GE PLCs—someone might have the SFC extension you need or at least could help troubleshoot the upload error. Alternatively, if you go ahead with creating your own logic, it might be beneficial to sketch out your control plan thoroughly beforehand to ensure you cover all the necessary functions for the servo. Good luck with getting everything up and running!

It sounds like you’re on an exciting journey with that salvaged Fanuc servo setup! If you're facing configuration issues with Proficy, wiping the PLC and starting fresh could indeed be a viable option, especially since it lets you create logic tailored to your needs. Just keep in mind that if you wipe the memory, you’ll lose any potentially useful existing logic. As for the SFC extension, it might be tricky to find due to its discontinuation, but sometimes older software versions pop up on industrial forums or auction sites. Have you also considered reaching out to GE Automation directly? They might be able to offer guidance or resources for your project! Good luck, and keep us posted on your progress!

It sounds like an awesome project! If you're hitting a configuration mismatch with Proficy, it might be worth checking the firmware version of your PLC to make sure it aligns with the software version you’re using. Before wiping the memory, try to back up whatever you can, even if it seems cryptic; you never know if you might find a nugget of useful logic. As for the Logicmaster 90 SFC extension, those can be tough to find, but sometimes you can locate older software versions on forums or through used software resellers. If you do decide to start fresh, just make sure you have a solid plan for your new logic to ensure it can interact properly with the servo drive! Good luck!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How can I communicate with a Fanuc servo motor using a GE 90-30 PLC?

Answer: Answer: To communicate with a Fanuc servo motor using a GE 90-30 PLC, you will need the necessary I/O Master Link module and appropriate software such as Logicmaster 90 with the SFC extension.

FAQ: 2. What should I do if I encounter a configuration version mismatch error when trying to upload logic from the GE 90-30 PLC?

Answer: Answer: If you encounter a configuration version mismatch error, consider obtaining Logicmaster 90 with the SFC extension to ensure compatibility with the software. Alternatively, wiping the PLC's memory with Proficy Machine Edition and creating your own logic could be a viable solution.

FAQ: 3. Is it possible to create new logic on the GE 90-30 PLC despite the current presence of SFC logic?

Answer: Answer: Yes, it is possible to create new logic on the GE 90-30 PLC even with existing SFC logic. You can use Proficy Machine Edition to clear the PLC's memory and start fresh with your own programming.

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