RussB

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Posts posted by RussB


  1. This is an exersize to waste time and talent.The only valid comparison to compare a CPU's features with what is needed for its intended use. For instance if a CPu can handle 1024 I/O but your project only has 187 I/O what good is the higher count ability? So determin your most demanding system and choose a processor that is capable for it. You may want to look at: RAM, Speed, Software Ease of use, Available ports, Available protocols on these ports, Expandability, Physical size, CostParts availability And more...

  2. You can order a demo DVD from www.GE-IP.com http://www.ge-ip.com/products/2825 Write them and ask for the Demo DVD of Proficy Machine Edition.

  3. If it's the old style QP, touch three corner touch points simultaneously to bring up the units menus. A model and part number may bring better help.

  4. You have two options. 1. Purchase an upgrade EPROM for the CPU. (You will need the CPU part number to order the correct one.) 2. Use LogicMaster Software. (You will not be able to go backwards from VP to LM, you will need to upload with LM then import the variables if needed.) No draw-backs that I know of other than the potential of third party hardware not working or needing upgrade to work with the new firmware. The up-side is that you can then upgrade to Proficy ME and retire VersaPro.

  5. In today's integrated world and potential to damage or do harm in a power or water network there is no room for a "back door" in any of its devices especially one that gives an outsider access to the network, either onsite or offsite. If they need a means of overcoming a lost log-on it needs to be a way to set the unit back to factory defaults, which would take it off the network and necessitate a new configuration and/or program.

  6. By RS, do you mean RS-232 or RS-485? What is lacking in the one you have? What options or features are you in need of? An internet search will bring up lots of brands, form my experience most are adequate for general use. Some are special. Like this from Red Lion handles many different protocols and has multiple ports not just one serial and one Ethernet port. :: DATA STATION PLUS :: or the simpler :: ICM8 ::

  7. See this type of thing a lot, where two "identical" systems run differently. The reason is almost always in sensors that are enabled at different rates or have mechanical issues. Or communication errors that are being hidden or just ignored.

  8. You can do what you suggest, the OPC driver is not mandatory, just more robust and is where all of the 'New' and 'Updates' will take place. But do NOT use the GE-TCP/IP driver unless your PLC's are 90-70s, instead use the native driver called 'GE SRTP' as it is the latest native driver and still works fine with all of the newer PLC styles. Note that 'SRTP' is the protocol that Proficy ME uses to communicate to the CPUs via Ethernet. As to needing the Logic Developer PLC, you will not so long as you do not need to make any changes to the PLC. Keeping the targets in separate projects will prevent the annoying warnings. Someone is trying to 'rip-you-off' as adding PLC/PAC software to your current license 'should' not cost more than about $2400 for the PAC, $1000 for 90-30/VersaMax or $200 for VM Micro. BTW they are cumulative in that purchasing the PAC software license includes all lower types.

  9. The better question would be "Can a Panasonic G Series connect to a GEIP 90-30?" And this I cannot answer, but Panasonic or the supplier should be able to. I do know for a fact that the GEIP QuickPanel View can and it's pricing starts at about $750. And the Red Lion G series can, and they begin around $600. What model GEIP 90-30 is it and which protocols and what ports does it have available? These are what anyone needs to know to answer your question.

  10. A general rule is to use a different power supply for everything except the PLC's discrete inputs. Although if you plan carefully the 24 VDC out on these can be used for other things. Just be sure to NOT over use it.