Sending event code to computer FX2N

[tvaughn 0]

I have an application where our IT department wants us to output an event code via USB to a computer. The plc is a FX2N type which I don't believe has the capability (There are 12 machines to be done so I would rather not upgrade plc's if not necessary). So far the only thing we've thought of is fixturing a barcode reader and using the machine to trigger the barcode which would scan the event code. This seems pretty barbaric and was trying to find a more eloquent solution. Any ideas? 

[Crossbow 295]

Why USB?  Most PLCs (if they even offer) USB connection is for programming only.

Why not send a string out the serial port?

[kaare_t 155]

Yes, serial or even better; ethernet. Alternatively, since the IT department really wants this, they can poll the PLC for data (where you can set a bit high).

[servet 0]

9 hours ago, tvaughn said:

I have an application where our IT department wants us to output an event code via USB to a computer. The plc is a FX2N type which I don't believe has the capability (There are 12 machines to be done so I would rather not upgrade plc's if not necessary). So far the only thing we've thought of is fixturing a barcode reader and using the machine to trigger the barcode which would scan the event code. This seems pretty barbaric and was trying to find a more eloquent solution. Any ideas? 

Tvaugh. You can use mxcomponent softwere fron the mitsubishi electric. Mxcomponent is very powerful softwere .even its support the activex object too. 

[Nightfly 12]

We used to use MX component but found it buggy and unreliable (version 3). We moved over to OPC about 5 years ago and would not look back. OPC servers are easy to set up and far more flexible.

Do the systems have a HMI? you might be able to get your data out through them (they would have a serial or Ethernet port built in so you would not have to add anything to the Plc .

 

 

[tvaughn 0]

Thank you. I've not really done much outside of the plc programming itself so a little out of my element. They all have HMI's (mostly F940, but have upgraded a few to GT1050). From my understanding the IT guys basically just want the equivalent of a specified keystroke so seems like there should be a simple solution. I'll look into your suggestions and would welcome any additional recommendations as well.