Indeed, you read that correctly! I've been assigned the task of updating several machines at my workplace. One of these machines is equipped with an SLC 150, while two others feature Square D Micro 1 controllers. I plan to replace all of them with MicroLogix 1100 units. My main queries are: what software or cables are available for connecting to these PLCs to retrieve the existing programs? I'm looking to extract the current programming to facilitate the transition to the new MicroLogix 1100 controllers. Is it worth investing time and resources in this process, considering the outdated nature of these models? I'm concerned that I may face challenges in accessing the current programs, which could result in needing to completely rewrite the code for those machines. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
To connect to the SLC-150, you'll require a serial interface box known as the 1745-PCC, alongside a DOS computer equipped with a serial port. You've found the ideal source for this information! A member from our Forum possesses significant expertise in configuring VirtualBox and the PCIS software using a USB version of the 1745-PCC, which is available for purchase. For more details, check out this link: https://www.plccable.com/allen-bradley-plc-slc-100-150-usb-1745-pcc-cable/. In my experience, investing in one of these devices is worthwhile as it enables you to upload the latest program versions, providing valuable insights into the current operation of the machine. Keep in mind, you will need to manually develop the new code in RSLogix 500 since a direct converter from the SLC-150 to RSLogix 500 does not exist.
bbishop108 shared: That's right, I've been assigned the project of modernizing several machines at my workplace. One machine features an SLC 150, while two others are equipped with Square D Micro 1 controllers. I'm planning to upgrade all of them to MicroLogix 1100. I have some questions: Are there any software tools or cables available that would enable me to connect to these PLCs so I can extract the existing programs before transitioning to the new ones? If such options exist, do you think it’s worth the time and investment just to retrieve these programs? I'm concerned about the obsolescence of the current equipment, which might force me to rewrite all the programs from scratch. Thank you! Click to expand... Unless you’re using an older DOS-based computer equipped with a genuine serial port, it might be simpler to carefully observe and document the current operations of the machines. I have access to the necessary software and cables for both systems somewhere.
The AB ICOM software designed for SLCs is now available without an activation requirement, provided you can source a copy from someone else. It's important to note that this software is only compatible with DOS systems; however, it can also run smoothly on a Windows 98 virtual machine (VM). The communication function of the software exclusively supports COM ports 1 and 2. If you're using a USB cable, be aware that DOS interfaces do not recognize USB connections. Therefore, utilizing a VM is the most effective solution. One useful tip I've discovered is to connect the USB adapter or cable to your Windows computer first, then reconfigure the USB COM port to be assigned to either COM 1 or COM 2. After that, ensure that the port is recognized in your VM as COM 1 or COM 2. I have set up my system this way successfully. By following these steps, you can effectively use the AB ICOM software with DOS or within a Windows 98 VM environment, enabling seamless communication and enhancing your setup.
Ken Roach mentioned, “You’ve found the ideal source for information on this topic. One of our Forum members has extensive expertise in setting up VirtualBox and the PCIS software with a USB variant of the 1745-PCC cable that he offers. For details, check here: [Allen-Bradley 1745-PCC USB Cable](https://www.plccable.com/allen-bradley-plc-slc-100-150-usb-1745-pcc-cable/). Thanks, Ken! Gary, are you confident that ICOM is compatible with the PLC 150/100 series? Bishop108 responded, “Ken is absolutely right! We provide both USB and serial versions of the cable, and you can find the setup instructions on our support page. It includes the USB cable at no cost, so you'll only need a PCC cable to upload your program. For the Micro1, you’ll need the specific cable, which you can find here: [Idec Micro1 PLC Programming Cable](https://www.plccable.com/idec-micro1-plc-programming-cable-usb-fc1a-cla-micro-1-square-d/). The required software is WindLDR, which allows you to upload and convert your program effortlessly. I don’t anticipate any difficulties in converting to the 1100 series, as neither PLC model is particularly complex; the logic has been quite straightforward based on all the programs I've examined. I have everything functioning smoothly on both Windows 7 and Windows 10 systems. Wishing you the best of luck with your projects! Mark”
To clarify your question, the ICOM software is indeed functional. It is the original application used with the SLC100 and SLC150 models, which were subsequently acquired by Rockwell Automation. As I mentioned earlier, the software operates exclusively under DOS, although it can also run on Windows up to XP, as these are DOS-based operating systems. The ICOM SLC software specifically supports communication via COM ports 2 or 3, so it is essential to configure any port for compatibility with either of these settings. You can perform uploads, downloads, and edits using this software; however, please note that online editing for the SLC series is not supported. This means all edits must be made offline and downloaded later. Additionally, the program lacks features such as tags, symbols, or descriptions — it consists solely of raw logic code. There isn’t an automated conversion option available, so any program conversion must be done manually. This should not pose too much difficulty, as the programs are typically straightforward and consist primarily of simple logic. I have successfully run it on a Windows 98 virtual machine, although I encountered a few challenges, with communication setup being the most complex issue. For anyone looking to enhance their experience with ICOM software for SLC100/150 systems, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with DOS commands and communication port configurations.
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