I have a machine controlled by a PanelView Plus 600 HMI touch screen through RS232 to a Micrologix 1500 PLC. I am troubleshooting the equipment by linking RSLogix 500 through a laptop to the PLC's RS232 port. However, I need guidance on how to connect both the touch screen and RSLogix simultaneously for operation. Can anyone provide solutions or suggestions on this issue?
The LRP model features dual serial ports - one located on the front and another on the side. In contrast, the LSP model only has a single serial port. If you possess the LSP model and require additional ports, consider utilizing a port splitter such as the 1747-DPS1. This device can help expand connectivity options for your equipment.
If you're looking for serial splitters, consider browsing eBay for a selection of options available.
I am currently using the 1747-CP3 cable to connect my PC to the PLC, which features DB9 connectors on both ends. My laptop is equipped with a traditional Com port, and I have had issues with USB emulators in the past. The Panelview also connects using a DB9 cable. The 1747-DPS1 cable has a round connector similar to the Microtouch cable. I am wondering if AB offers a DB9 port splitter. Is it possible to connect the PC to the PLC using the Microtouch cable with the round port, and connect the Panelview to the DB9 port?
After reconnecting the Panelview to the PLC and plugging in my Microtouch to Com1 cable, the connection was established effortlessly without any additional steps. It seems like I have found the solution to my query independently. Many thanks to everyone for their support.
When it comes to RS232 communication, it is strictly limited to a 1:1 connection between two devices, with no option for adding a third device into the mix. To expand your setup, you have the choice of either incorporating a second RS232 port into your PLC or upgrading to a more modern and versatile option, such as Ethernet connectivity.
It sounds like you're facing the classic issue of needing to connect two devices via RS232 to a single system. The best approach here could be to use a Serial splitter cable, which allows you to link two devices to a single RS232 port simultaneously. However, bear in mind that you will need to carefully manage the communication to avoid data collision. RSLogix is a pretty robust platform so it should handle this, ensuring that the touch screen and RSLogix don't "talk" at the same time.
One option you could consider is using a splitter cable to allow both the PanelView and the laptop to connect to the Micrologix 1500 RS232 port simultaneously. However, be cautious as this may potentially cause communication issues. Another alternative option (a safer one, I would say) is to use a second communication port on the PLC if available, or deploy a communication module. The Procedure for configuring additional communication on PanelView would be well-documented in the manufacturer's guide, so I suggest consulting that as well. Definitely make sure to back up your PLC program before making any changes, just in case.
It seems like you're facing a common dilemma in industrial control systems. Normally, you can't hook up two RS232 ports directly unless you have a dual comm. port on the PLC. If your Micrologix 1500 has an available Ethernet port, you could try moving the PanelView Plus to the Ethernet port and keep the RS232 for RSLogix. If not, your next best bet would be to invest in a serial to Ethernet converter, and then route your connectivity through a network switch. That would let both your HMI touch screen and laptop communicate with the PLC simultaneously.
You might want to consider using a multiport serial communication converter to solve this particular hurdle. This device would essentially allow you to divide the RS232 communication with your PLC between both the PanelView Plus 600 and your laptop running RSLogix 500. It's a bit like a PC having multiple USB ports. Make sure to correctly configure the baud rates, parity, and stop bits to ensure effective communication. In essence, a dual or multi-port serial communication converter could be the solution you're looking for.
You might want to consider using a serial port splitter or a multi port serial hub that can allow both devices to connect to the same RS232 port on the PLC, though functionality may depend on how the PLC handles multiple inputs. Another option is to switch to a different communication protocol like Ethernet if your equipment allows for it; this could let you easily connect both the HMI and your laptop for programming and monitoring. Just ensure that whatever solution you choose keeps your communication channels clear to avoid conflicts.
It sounds like you're in a bit of a bind trying to connect both the PanelView Plus 600 and RSLogix 500 to the Micrologix 1500 simultaneously! One common solution is to use a serial communication splitter or switch, which allows you to connect more than one device to the RS232 port. Just make sure that the devices can handle being connected at the same time without conflicts in data transmission. Alternatively, you could consider using a different communication protocol, like Ethernet, if your setup allows for it, as it can make simultaneous connections easier. If those options aren’t viable, you might have to temporarily disconnect the HMI while you’re troubleshooting in RSLogix. Good luck!
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Answer: 1. How can I connect a PanelView Plus 600 HMI touch screen and RSLogix simultaneously to a MicroLogix 1500 PLC for troubleshooting? - To connect both the touch screen and RSLogix to the PLC simultaneously, you can use a laptop with RSLogix 500 software connected to the PLC's RS232 port, while maintaining the existing RS232 connection between the PanelView Plus 600 and the PLC.
Answer: - Ensure that the RS232 connections are properly configured and that the communication settings on both the HMI touch screen and RSLogix are set correctly. Verify the cable connections, baud rates, data bits, parity, and stop bits to establish a reliable connection for troubleshooting.
Answer: - In RSLogix 500, you need to configure the communication settings to match those of the MicroLogix 1500 PLC, including the correct port configuration (RS232), baud rate, data bits, parity, and stop bits. Ensure that the communication path is established and that the software can communicate effectively with the PLC for troubleshooting purposes.
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