Rockwell has faced challenges with the Panelview Plus 7 operator interface terminals due to various hardware revisions resulting from a chip embargo and relocation of production facilities. This has led to compatibility issues with firmware revisions and different hardware series. The new Panelview Plus 7 models come in multiple series, causing difficulties in direct replacements and maintenance for our department. The series A is compatible with firmware version 11 and earlier, series B with firmware version 13 and newer, series C with firmware version 12 only, and series D with firmware version 13 and newer. Anomalies have been observed in Ethernet settings between series A and B, where series A allows changing the IP address without being connected to a network, while series B requires being connected to a network for IP address changes. With over 150 panelview units in operation in our facility, including various models like the PV5500, maintenance has become challenging due to the diverse types, versions, and series. This complexity can disrupt operations, making it crucial to provide guidance and support to others facing similar issues.
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In a moment of pure joy, kekrahulik shared their experiences. Welcome to the wild world of madness! Even reaching out to the developer about Series C left them feeling indifferent. Your best bet is to contact tech support for any issues. If it's not mentioned in a tech note, they may not be aware of it.
I encountered an error because my Ethernet was not connected when attempting to change my IP. Even after connecting it, I still couldn't make the change. Would a reboot solve this issue? Now, I'm being prompted for a firmware update. Do devices not come with pre-loaded firmware anymore? Previously, devices would have the latest firmware installed to ensure compatibility with applications developed on older firmware versions. This situation has me wondering what I'm getting myself into.
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The introduction of the newer Plus 7 Performance model Series B brought an updated operating system, leading to changes in the Out-Of-Box-Experience (OOBE). These units currently do not support the initial assignment of an IP address during OOBE setup. While the screen for this feature is available, it is not yet supported. It is unclear if or when this functionality will be added in the future. Additionally, these units no longer come with the latest firmware pre-installed. Similar to Logix controllers, users must flash the firmware to their desired version using a USB thumb drive. ControlFlash cannot be used during the OOBE process, but can be utilized afterward. After the firmware upgrade, users can set the IP address through the Configuration Screen as usual. In my experience with updating the PVP7, I have always had the network cable connected without noticing any difference if the ethernet cable is unplugged. I have primarily worked with Series B units, with Series C simply being a stainless steel version of the same. There have been no reported firmware issues that differentiate the Series C from Series B. Currently, only the Standard Edition is available in Series D, which still uses the old Windows operating system and does not feature the new OOBE unless there have been recent updates that I am not aware of. It is important to note that technology evolves quickly, so information may change over time.
I completely understand the frustrations you're experiencing. Babysitting multiple types of terminals and their firmware compatibility can indeed eat away at your resources, not to mention the potential operational disruptions. One strategy might be to standardize your systems so that you're not dealing with so many variables. Upgrading all units to a more recent series and firmware could mitigate these issues in the future. You'd encounter some upfront costs and labor, but it might be worthwhile in the long run. Also, continuous communication with Rockwell could prompt them to address these anomalies and offer more support. Hang in there!
I empathize with the complexity and frustration caused by the multiple revisions, series, and firmware compatibility issues. It is certainly a challenge in managing and operating so many variations in a single facility, which can indeed disrupt daily operations. As a suggestion, creating a comprehensive mapping chart or database of all your units, including their models, series, firmware versions and unique characteristics, might be helpful for quick reference during maintenance and troubleshooting. Regularly training your team on recognizing and working with different versions might also improve turnaround times for issues. Furthermore, staying in close touch with Rockwell's support for continuous updates on their production changes can keep you one step ahead. This might not eliminate all problems, but it can help in managing them more effectively.
You've certainly highlighted one of the most vexing issues we've had to deal with as well. The incompatibility across revisions can truly be a maintenance nightmare, especially in larger operations like ours. One workaround solution I've found is to keep a cheat sheet handy for quick reference on each unit's firmware version and series ID specifics. Also, about the Ethernet settings anomaly, it may be helpful to standardize to one series if possible to mitigate this issue. But of course, feasibility of that lies in the complexity and cost factor. Also, I would recommend keeping open lines of communication with Rockwell's support center since they've been in the loop with these issues and can often offer valuable advice. Trust me, reaching out to them has saved us quite a bit of troubleshooting time! Hope this helps.
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Answer: Answer: Compatibility challenges arise from hardware revisions due to a chip embargo and relocation of production facilities, leading to issues with firmware revisions and different hardware series.
Answer: Answer: The various series (A, B, C, D) have different compatibility requirements with firmware versions, making direct replacements and maintenance more challenging for departments.
Answer: Answer: Anomalies include differences in changing the IP address, where series A allows changes without network connection, while series B requires connection to a network for IP address changes.
Answer: Answer: Over 150 panelview units, including various models like the PV5500, are in operation, adding complexity to maintenance due to the diverse types, versions, and series, potentially disrupting operations.
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