CN100504682C - Portable PLC configuration method - Google Patents

Abstract

Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a method, comprising: recognizing, by a PLC, that a memory device has been connected to the PLC; and configuring the PLC via a PLC executable software program resident on the memory device. Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a method, comprising: via a PLC network interface: presenting a PLC network as a namespace shell extension of an operating system of a non-PLC information device; and rendering, to a user of the non-PLC information device, the PLC network as a node of a network. Certain exemplary embodiments can comprise a method, comprising: via a PLC network interface: presenting a PLC network as a namespace shell extension of an operating system of a non-PLC information device; and searching the PLC network for at least one item corresponding to one or more search parameters.

Description

Portable PLC configuration method

technical field

The invention relates to a method and system for configuring PLC.

Background technique

PLC configurations are often stored on the CPU rather than the device being configured. Therefore, when the device is portable, it is necessary to reconfigure the device on the new CPU. This is an immediate, expensive process, and/or may require expertise when reconfiguring the device for use on a new CPU. Therefore, it is desirable to obtain a portable PLC configuration capable of effectively porting a device having a corresponding configuration between PLCs. When a PLC device is moved between PLC systems or within the same PLC system, it is necessary to reconfigure the device to operate in the same way as before.

The data of the PLC control process is extremely important for the operation and maintenance of the PLC system. To accurately and safely maintain a PLC-based control system, a large amount of information independent of the actual operating PLC program is required.

Various forms of documentation exist to assist in the operation and maintenance of PLC based control systems. These materials include PLC control engineering original data, engineering data, wiring diagrams, CAD drawings and so on. However, conventional PLC systems generally do not have the capability to store such data. Therefore, these materials cannot be used to maintain, implement upgrade system portability, and/or expand existing or new PLC systems. Therefore, each PLC of a conventional PLC network must be provided independently by maintenance and/or engineering personnel. Conventional systems and methods of data file management on the PLC are immediate and/or expensive.

In conventional systems, it is necessary to develop dedicated software to connect and communicate with the PLC network. Dedicated dialogs and/or windows need to be generated to view information about the attached PLC, and the information so provided may be very limited. Often, it is not possible to use standard file management and browser systems, such as Microsoft Explorer.

Therefore, when a user browses a PLC network, it is desirable to be able to browse the PLC network comfortably and quickly and/or provide important and helpful information about each PLC. Furthermore, it is also desirable to quickly determine the contents of the PLC network and/or the status of the various PLCs attached to the network.

Contents of the invention

Certain exemplary embodiments include systems, interfaces, machine-readable media, and/or methods that automatically:

configuring the PLC based on an executable software program residing on a memory connected to the PLC;

Provide PLC networks as network nodes and/or provide PLCs (and/or memory connected to PLCs, etc.) as network node components to non-PLC information equipment users;

Enable non-PLC information device users to browse PLC networks, PLCs, and/or storage connected to PLCs, etc.; and/or

A non-PLC information device user is enabled to search the PLC network, the PLC, and/or memory connected to the PLC, etc., for at least one item corresponding to the one or more search parameters.

Description of drawings

Various potential embodiments will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of certain exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system 1000;

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 2000;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 3000;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 4000;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an information device 5000;

Figures 6 through 35 are screen shots (shots) of an exemplary embodiment of the S7-200 Explorer.

Detailed ways

definition

Basically, when using the following terms, their additional definitions apply:

One - at least one.

access - approach, enter, exit, communicate, and/or exploit.

Activity - An operation, act, step, and/or process or part thereof.

Fit for - to fit or adapt to a particular use or situation.

Address - A code identifying where a piece of information is stored and/or where a node is placed.

Allow - to permit and/or cause to occur.

Animation - Graphics that are visible and changing to the human eye.

Apparatus - An appliance or device for a specific purpose.

Audio - Sound that is audible and changing to the human ear.

Automatic - Acting or operating substantially independently of external influence or control. For example, an automatic light switch that turns on as soon as it "sees" a person in its field of view, rather than requiring manual operation of the light switch.

Block Items - logically partitioned data packages, such as program blocks, user blocks, and/or system blocks, etc.

Browsing - Accidental, casual and/or purposeful viewing.

Can - at least in some embodiments.

command - A signal that initiates the action specified by the command.

Communication Parameters - Variables associated with communicating over a network.

Including - including but not limited to.

configure - to design, arrange, arrange, and/or shape for a particular purpose.

Connect - Connect physically and/or logically.

Content - The subject of the writing task and/or electronic document.

Data - A variety of information, usually formatted and/or organized in a particular or predetermined way to express a concept.

data block - that portion of memory dedicated to storing one or more sets of data.

Data Logging - Data event logging.

Qualify - to establish its outline, form or structure.

To determine - to ascertain, obtain, and/or calculate.

EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) - Non-volatile memory that uses a technology similar to the floating gate in EPROMs but has the ability to discharge the floating gate.

Electronic File - A collection of related data or program records stored in memory with a single name as a whole.

Ethernet - A frame-based computer networking technology for Local Area Networks (LANs). It defines the wiring and signaling of the physical layer, and the frame format and protocol of the media access control (MAC)/OSI model data connection layer.

Executable - able to run.

execute - run.

Document creation - the data upon which an electronic document is generated.

Filename - A computer-readable and/or user-readable identifier for an electronic file.

File Type - An indicator of the application used to generate and/or open the electronic file.

Firmware - Programs stored in non-volatile memory constructed from integrated circuits.

file center—a collection of computer files; a directory of computer files; an icon in a graphical user interface representing an item, such as a collection of computer files.

Graphical - A graphical representation.

Hierarchical Structure - A visible hierarchical schema that conforms to various standards and has successive levels or tiers.

highlight - to identify, illuminate, and/or draw attention to.

icon - In a graphical user interface (GUI), a graphical, on-screen display of an object such as a file, program, folder, or disk drive.

identify—to name; establish identity and/or presence.

Image - the display of photographs and/or other graphics.

Information device - any device capable of processing information, such as any general purpose and/or special purpose computer such as a personal computer, workstation, server, minicomputer, mainframe, supercomputer, computer terminal, laptop, wearable computer, and/or' Personal Digital Assistants' (PDAs), portable terminals, 'Bluetooth' devices, communication devices, 'smart' telephones (such as Treo-like devices), messaging service (such as Blackberry) receivers, pagers, faxes, cell phones, traditional telephones, Telephone equipment, programmed microprocessors or microcontrollers and/or peripheral integrated circuit components, ASICs or other integrated circuits, hardware electronic logic circuits such as discrete component circuits, and/or possible programming logic devices, etc. In general, any device on which a finite state machine is capable of implementing at least a portion of the methods, structures and/or graphical user interfaces described herein can be used as an information device. An information device includes well-known components such as one or more network interfaces, one or more processors, one or more memories containing instructions, and/or one or more input/output (I/O) devices, one or more Multiple user interfaces connected to I/O devices, etc.

Input/Output (I/O) Devices - any sensory-oriented input/output device, such as auditory, visual, tactile, olfactory and/or taste-oriented devices, including, for example, monitors, displays, projectors, high-position displays, keyboards, keys Zones, mice, trackballs, joysticks, gaming keyboards, wheels, touchpads, touchpads, pointing devices, microphones, speakers, video cameras, still cameras, scanners, printers, haptic devices, oscillators, haptic simulators, and/or or pads, and possibly ports to which I/O devices can be attached or connected.

Example - something occurs, such as the actual use of a single object of some kind. Each instance of a class has a different value for its instance variable, its state.

Instruction - A command adapted to perform a specific operation or function.

Items - computer files, folders, volumes, disks, and/or nodes.

machine-readable medium - a physical structure from which a machine can obtain data and/or information. Examples include memory, punched cards, and more.

Manage—to direct or control its use; to manipulate.

May - at least in some embodiments.

Storage Device - A device capable of storing analog or digital information, such as instructions and/or data. Examples include non-volatile memory, volatile memory, 'random access memory' RAM, 'read only memory' ROM, flash memory, magnetic media, hard disk, floppy disk, magnetic tape, optical media, compact disk, compact disk, CD, Digital Versatile Disc, DVD, and/or Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks, etc. A memory device, such as in accordance with embodiments described herein, may be coupled to a processor and/or store instructions suitable for execution by the processor.

Method - A procedure, steps, and/or collection of related activities to achieve something.

Amendment - the content of the electronic file is changed.

Namespace Shell Extension - A mechanism for adding custom functionality to the operating system in such a way that it appears to the user to be a substantially seamless part of the operating system.

Network - Multiple nodes connected by communication.

network interface - any device, system, subsystem, and/or software capable of connecting an information device to a network. For example, a network interface can be a telephone, cell phone, cellular modem, telephone data modem, fax modem, wireless transceiver, Ethernet card, cable modem, digital subscriber line interface, bridge, network hub, router, or other device that manages the similar equipment and/or software.

Node - An information device connected to a network.

Non-PLC Information Equipment—An information equipment that is not a PLC.

Operating System - The underlying software that manipulates peripheral hardware, schedules tasks, allocates memory, and provides a default interface to the user when applications are not running. The operating system is considered to be divided into the ever-present kernel and various system programs that use the functions provided by the kernel to perform higher-level housekeeping tasks. It is often used as a server in a client server relationship. Think of an operating system as including a graphical user interface and a windowing system.

Customization - to arrange and/or provide.

Parameters - Variables.

Personal Computer - A general-purpose microcomputer designed to be operated by a person at all times.

PLC Configurator - A program suitable for configuring a PLC.

PLC Network - A network of communicatively coupled PLCs.

Multiple - many and/or more than one.

Polling - Check status to see if a specific external event has occurred.

PPI (Point-to-Point Interface) - A peer-to-peer data communication interface for some kind of PLC operator interface connection, eg the 'Siemens S7-200' series of PLCs.

Reservations - Make sure in advance.

present - to introduce, provide, show, display and/or offer for consideration.

preview - to watch or show in advance; introductory or preliminary information, samples, and/or overviews; forecast.

Processor - A device and/or set of machine-readable instructions that perform one or more predetermined tasks. A processor includes any one or combination of hardware, firmware, and/or software. Processors may utilize mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, magnetic, optical, informational, chemical, and/or biological principles, signals, and/or inputs to perform tasks. In some embodiments, a processor acts on information by manipulating, analyzing, modifying, converting, communicating the information for use by an executable step and/or an information device, and/or sending the information to an output device. The processor serves as a central processing unit, local controller, remote controller, parallel controller, and/or distributed controller, among others. If not otherwise specified, the processor may be a general purpose device such as a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor such as the 'Pentium IV' series of microprocessors manufactured by Intel Corporation of Santa Clara, California. In some embodiments, the processor may be a special-purpose device, such as an 'Application Specific Integrated Circuit' (ASIC) or a 'Field Programmable Gate Array' designed to implement in its hardware and/or firmware at least some of the embodiments disclosed herein. '(FPGA).

Profibus ('Process Field Bus') - a generic, open and vendor-independent type of fieldbus and/or token ring bus used in automation technology.

Program - A coded set of instructions that causes a machine, especially a computer, to perform a desired sequence of operations.

Program Block - A portion of memory dedicated to storing one or more programs.

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) – A device that evaluates a set of inputs and provides automated monitoring and/or control and/or processing of a plant in accordance with programmed instructions. PLCs may be used in applications including material conveying, material pumping, material manufacturing, power generation, electrical energy distribution, heating systems, ventilation systems, air conditioning systems, chemical processing, mining, machinery manufacturing, packaging, and/or material distribution, among others. The PLC may be communicatively connected to a first network of non-information devices such as sensors and/or actuators. The PLC is communicatively connectable to the second network of information devices.

Attributes - parameters of electronic documents.

Provide - to furnish, supply, and/or make available.

read - obtain.

To receive - to take out, get, obtain, and/or be given.

recipe - a plurality of input values and/or setpoints, each corresponding to a process variable and passable to a PLC program for processing.

Recognize—to perceive or express the receipt of validity.

Render—perceivable.

Dwell - to be and/or exist.

Running - in operation.

Search - Investigate, inspect and/or detect.

Search Parameters - Criteria to limit the search.

Select - select.

Group, set—multiple of the same kind.

Size - The amount of physical and/or virtual memory occupied by an electronic file.

software - a written program stored in volatile memory.

Specify - to indicate explicitly and/or in detail.

Storage Location - The physical and/or virtual location of the electronic file.

store - typically placing, maintaining, and/or retaining data in memory.

Storage on PLC Network - storage on nodes and/or memory devices connected to nodes on a PLC network.

Basically - to a great extent or degree.

system - a collection of mechanisms, devices, data, and/or instructions designed to perform one or more specific functions.

system block - A portion of memory dedicated to storing one or more operating system programs.

Temporal - as to date and/or time of creation and/or modification.

Textual - Words that are used as data by a computer.

User - A person who interacts with an information device.

user interface - any device that gives information to and/or receives information from a user. The user interface includes at least one of text, graphics, audio, video, animation, and/or tactile elements. For example, text elements may be provided by printers, monitors, displays, projectors, and the like. Graphical elements may be provided, for example, by a monitor, display, projector, and/or a visual indicating device, such as a cursor, flag, beacon, or the like. Audio elements are provided, for example, by speakers, microphones, and/or other sound producing and/or receiving devices. Video elements or animation elements are provided, for example, by monitors, displays, projectors, and/or other visual devices, and the like. For example, via subwoofers, oscillators, haptic actuators, touchpads, simulators, keyboards, keypads, mice, trackballs, joysticks, gaming keyboards, wheels, tactile pads, touchpads, pointing devices, and/or Other haptic devices and the like may provide haptic elements. A user interface may include one or more textual elements, such as one or more letters, numbers, symbols, and the like. A user interface may include one or more graphical elements, such as images, photos, views, icons, windows, title bars, panels, datalogs, tabs, charts, matrices, charts, tables, calendars, outline views, screens, Dialog, Static Text, Text Box, List, Select List, Popup List, Break List, Menu, Toolbar, Dock, Check Box, Radio Button, Hyperlink, Browser, Button, Control, Palette, Preview Panels, color wheels, dials, sliders, scroll bars, cursors, status bars, steppers, and/or progress indicators, etc. Text and/or graphic elements may be used to select, program, adjust, change, specify, etc., namely: layout, background color, background form, border form, border thickness, foreground color, font, font style, font size, alignment standard, line spacing, indentation, maximum data length, validation, query, cursor type, pointer type, automatic size monitoring, position, and/or size, etc. The user interface may include one or more visual elements such as volume controls, tone controls, speed controls, sound selectors, and/or one or more controls for audio playback, speed, pause, fast forward, reverse, etc. components. The user interface may include one or more video elements, such as elements that control video playback, speed, pause, fast forward, reverse, zoom out, zoom in, rotate, and/or tilt, among others. The user interface may include one or more animation elements, such as elements that control animation play, pause, fast-forward, reverse, zoom out, zoom in, rotate, tilt, color, brightness, speed, frequency, layout, and the like. A user interface may include one or more tactile elements, such as elements utilizing tactile stimulation, force, pressure, vibration, motion, displacement, temperature, and the like.

User Log - A record of events related to one or more users.

Video - Changing images visible to the human eye.

Capacity - Disk Drives and/or Virtual Disk Drives.

Windows family - any operating system that bears the name "Windows" and is provided by 'Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA'.

Detailed description

Certain exemplary embodiments include a method comprising: identifying, by a PLC, that memory is connected to the PLC; and configuring the PLC, by a PLC executable software program residing on the memory. Certain exemplary embodiments include a method comprising: providing a PLC network via a PLC network interface as a namespace shell extension of a non-PLC information device operating system; and making the PLC network a network node to non-PLC information device users. Certain exemplary embodiments include a method comprising: providing a PLC network as a namespace shell extension of a non-PLC messaging device operating system through a PLC network interface; and searching the PLC network for at least one item.

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) have traditionally been used in a broad spectrum of applications, from factory automation to wastewater treatment plant control, from chemical treatment plant control to engine management systems. Each application typically includes unique routines written into the user manual to control the sequence of specific system events.

Today, many industries use programmable logic controllers to properly operate and monitor complex industrial devices and processes. Programmable controllers usually operate according to a stored control program that causes the controller to check the state of the controlled machine and/or process by evaluating signals from one or more sensing devices (such as temperature or pressure sensors), and based on the program framework, The sensor signals and possibly more complex processing are used to operate the machine and/or processing elements (for example by activating or deactivating moving parts).

PLCs gather information from various sensor inputs (analog and/or discrete). PLCs process data using, for example, 'Segment-Passed Ladder Logic', which is a computer program based on 'Hardwired Segmented Logic'. While the user program collects and manipulates sensor data, the PLC sends appropriate output signals to control the operation of its connected devices. The result is often safer, more efficient operation of the monitoring or control device.

Process operations are often at least intermittently monitored by administrative personnel through one or more central management stations. Each management station can sample the status of operator-selected controllers (and their associated sensors) and/or provide data in a meaningful format. The management station may or may not be at the same location as the monitoring device; a central management station usually has access to multiple locations (whether or not those locations are operating in relation).

Programmable logic controllers (PLCs) use portable memory for storage. The memory, which may be a memory cartridge, may also be an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). The memory may be used to store one or more PLC executable software programs, recipes, data logs, process records, program records, user files, and the like. Each of these items may be stored on memory as a discrete binary or text file.

Memory may also include dedicated memory blocks, such as program blocks, data blocks, and/or system blocks. Each of these blocks is available to the PLC for temporary storage prior to and/or during execution of the PLC executable software program.

Once the memory is connected to the PLC, the memory will be automatically read to detect the PLC executable software program and the program can be automatically executed to configure the PLC.

A PLC may have a network interface that allows certain telematics devices to treat the PLC as a network node, such as a node of a PLC network. The PLC and/or telematics device includes interface software that enables the telematics device to interpret the PLC network, the PLC, the storage box, the storage box file structure, and/or the files themselves in a manner consistent with the telematics device operating system.

Thus, the telematics device, for example, runs the Windows XP operating system, and treats the PLC, memory, and/or stored content as and/or becomes a network node, device, volume, folder, file, and/or hierarchical path project. As another example, storage boxes appear in 'Windows Explorer' (or other path drawing interface) as items of a hierarchical path that includes PLC networks, PLCs, storage boxes, and/or storage content (which can become and/or as a file).

PLC interface software residing on the information device allows the user to handle files residing on the storage device in the same manner as residing on and/or in any other identifiable node, device, volume, folder, etc. document. In this manner, the user can copy files to and/or from storage, delete files from storage, rename files on storage, and the like.

Furthermore, the PLC interface software supports multiple instances of files, thus being able to display multiple windows providing the same or different views of these files.

By providing the PLC network, the PLC, the storage box, the file structure of the storage box, and/or the files stored on the storage box in a manner recognizable by the telematics operating system, the PLC interface software allows the user to function to search for files residing on and/or in PLC networks, PLCs, storage boxes, etc. So, for example, a user could search for any of the following documents, such as "flowchart" in the name, have a ".pdf" extension, were created before January 20, 2005, were modified after January 24, 2005, have Files of specific icons associated with it, etc. This search returns a list of files matching the search criteria.

Also, the PLC interface software allows the user to search for file content residing on and/or within the PLC network, PLC, storage box, etc., using the search function of the operating system and/or other software installed on the telematics device. Thus, for example, a user may search for all occurrences of the phrase "T-101 High Level Alarm" in files located on any PLC and/or telematics device visible storage box. The search returns a list of files consistent with the search criteria and/or highlights, previews, and/or otherwise identifies files containing text, graphics, photos, audio clips, videos, etc. corresponding to the search parameters.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system 1000 including one or more PLCs 1100 . Any given PLC 1100 includes a processor 1100 , memory 1120 , input output interface 1130 , memory identifier 1140 , PLC configurator 1150 , network interface 1160 , and/or processing system input output interface 1170 .

A memory box and/or device 1200 storing a PLC configuration program is inserted, plugged in, coupled, connected to, received by PLC 1100 , etc., and memory 1200 is identified and/or read by memory identifier 1140 in PLC 1100 . Memory 1200 includes a plastic, polycarbonate, metal, aluminum, etc. housing and/or one or more EEPROMs, flash drives, and/or hard drives. Memory 1200 has a storage capacity from about 8KB to 120GB or more, including all values and subfields in between. Memory 1200 is capable of data transfer speeds from about 8KB/sec to 120MB/sec or greater, including all values and subfields in between. Memory 1200 is small, lightweight, compact, portable, replaceable, hot-swappable, high-speed, and/or plug-and-play. Memory 1200 complies with 'Compact Flash', SD, Pocket SD, 'Multimedia Card' (MMC), RS-MMC, 'Memory Stick', 'Memory Stick PRO', 'Memory Stick DUO', 'Memory Stick PRO DUO',' Smart Media', XD, USB, USB2.0, 'Firewire', 'Firewire 800', and/or SCSI formats. Memory 1200 utilizes security, encryption, and/or authentication software, such as AES, to protect any files and/or data stored therein.

An input/output device 1300 such as a monitor, a keyboard, a mouse, a printer, etc. may be connected to an input/output interface of the PLC 1100 . The processing system 1600 is coupled to a processing system input/output interface 1170 having a plurality of sensors, actuators, etc., and comprising, consisting of, and/or communicating with the machine and/or processing elements /or processing element dependent.

A network 1400 such as a PLC network is connected to the network interface 1160 . One or more non-PLC information devices 1500 are connected to the network 1400, and the information devices 1500 store, utilize, and/or run the PLC network interface 1520, the PLC network communication interface 1540, and/or the PLC network user interface 1560, etc.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 2000 . At activity 2100, a memory cartridge and/or device is inserted, plugged in, coupled to, connected to and received by a PLC, and the like. At activity 2200, the PLC and/or a memory identifier stored on, associated with, and/or coupled to the PLC, etc. memory may identify the memory. At activity 2300, memory can be read and/or a PLC configuration program stored on memory can be determined, identified, and/or selected from among a plurality of PLC executable software programs residing on memory. At activity 2400, a stored PLC configuration program can be executed. At activity 2500, one or more parameters associated with the PLC, and/or one or more values for each of these parameters are identified, determined, and/or set by the PLC configuration program, and/or the PLC is configured to communicate with these The values of the parameters are the same.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 3000 . At activity 3100, a PLC network interface associated with a non-PLC information device may poll the network (eg, one or more PLC networks) and/or devices connected to each network, such as a PLC, and/or memory connected to a PLC. At activity 3200, the PLC network interface can identify one or more PLC networks, an address for each network, and/or one or more devices connected to each network. At activity 3300, communication parameters and/or quantities can thus be exchanged between the PLC network interface and the PLC network and/or devices connected to the PLC network, the PLC network interface and the PLC network and/or devices connected to the PLC network can communicate Connect, and/or communicate between the PLC network interface and the identified PLC network and/or devices connected to the PLC network.

At activity 3400, a PLC network is provided to and/or interpreted by a non-PLC messaging device as a namespace shell extension of an operating system running on the non-PLC messaging device. The operating system can be a personal computer operating system, such as a member of the Windows family of operating systems (such as Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows XP, etc.), a Macintosh family of operating systems (OS 9, OS X, etc.), Linux, Unix, Solaris, etc. For each identified device connected to the PLC network, the PLC network address is provided to, received by, and/or determined by the PLC network interface. Multiple instances of the PLC network and/or devices connected to the PLC network may be provided if desired.

At activity 3500, the PLC network and/or devices connected to the PLC network are provided to non-PLC information device users. For example, PLC networks are provided as volume labels, directories, folders, and/or predetermined icons, such as network icons. As another example, a folder entry is provided for every device connected to the PLC network and/or every file stored on such a device. Folder items are provided as volume labels, directories, folders, and/or predetermined icons, such as PLC and/or PLC memory icons. In this way, PLC networks, PLCs, PLC memory, and/or PLC memory file hierarchies are provided as hierarchies, and/or paths. Folder items are provided e.g. by PLC network address (e.g. 'Process Fieldbus', PPI, and/or Ethernet address, etc.), item type in any order, eg alphabetical, created date ordered, modified date ordered, and/or Or size order and so on offer.

At activity 3600, a user is authorized and/or allowed to browse the PLC network, for example by using a file browser such as 'Windows Explorer' and/or Macintosh Finder, and/or by using an IP browser such as 'Internet Explorer', FireFox, and/or Safari, etc.

At activity 3700, a user of a non-PLC telematics device determines information stored on a device connected to a PLC network and/or transfers information between a PLC network, a device connected to a PLC network, and/or a non-PLC telematics device. Appropriate graphics are provided in response to non-PLC information device users issuing commands related to the information. For example, icons and/or animations are provided to indicate the progress of transferring files from PLC memory to non-PLC information devices or from non-PLC information devices to PLC memory.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary embodiment of a method 4000 . At activity 4100, a PLC network is provided to and/or interpreted by a non-PLC messaging device as a namespace shell extension of an operating system running on the non-PLC messaging device. For each identified device connected to the PLC network, the PLC network address is provided to, received by, and/or determined by the PLC network interface. Multiple instances of the PLC network and/or devices connected to the PLC network may be provided if desired. Users of non-PLC information devices may provide PLC networks, PLCs, PLC memory, and/or PLC memory files as hierarchical structures, and/or paths, etc. in any of a number of ways, such as hierarchically.

At activity 4200, a user may enter, and/or receive from a user a PLC network interface associated with a non-PLC information device, one or more search parameter values of interest to the user to search for one or more items, such as one or more PLC networks , PLC, PLC memory, PLC memory file, and/or its content and/or metadata, and the like. Any of a number of search parameters can be selected, including, for example, item properties, item address, any part of item name, item type, item creation information, item modification information, time information, item storage information, item size, item text content, Item graphic content, item image content, item audio content, item video content, item animation content, and so on. For example, a user can search for any document that contains the mention text "asbestos," "carcinogen," "hazmat," "mercury," and/or "lead."

At activity 4300, the PLC network interface initiates a search of one or more PLC networks, PLCs, PLC memory, PLC memory files, and/or their contents and/or metadata, etc., the search corresponding at least in part to the provided values of the search parameters, And/or determine and/or provide any match to the PLC network interface.

At activity 4400, at least a portion of the items identified by the search are provided to the user, such as via a PLC network interface. Any identified items may be provided in a manner that highlights, contextualizes, and/or previews any portion of the item that makes the item considered a match. For example, provide 25 words on either side of any mention of the search phrases "asbestos," "carcinogen," "hazmat," "mercury," and "lead." Weight and/or rank search result items. Search result items may be provided in any order, such as by rank, name (alphabetically), type, size, date created, date modified, etc.

At activity 4500, a user accesses one or more search results and/or related information, such as through a PLC network interface. For example, by double-clicking on an item provided as a search result, the user is provided with additional information about the item. If the item is a file, then the file is opened, which is likely where a match occurs.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a telematics device 5000 , which in some operational embodiments includes, for example, PLC 1100 and/or non-PLC telematics device 1500 of FIG. 1 . Information device 5000 may include any of a number of well-known components, such as one or more network interfaces 5100, one or more processors 5200, one or more memories 5300 containing instructions 5400, one or more input/output (I/O) /O) device 5500, and/or one or more user interfaces 5600 connected to I/O device 5500, and/or the like.

In some embodiments, through one or more user interfaces 5600, such as a graphical user interface, a user views the information provided about the PLC network and/or PLCs.

S7-200 Explorer

Certain exemplary embodiments are referred to herein as "S7-200 Explorer" which can be combined with 'Microsoft Windows Explorer' and/or 'Microsoft Internet Explorer' to allow users to browse their S7-200 network and/or the contents of each PLC on the network. The remainder of this detailed description describes various features that some exemplary embodiments of the S7-200 resource manager may have.

This section details the terminology used illustrate entry point Standard S7DOS term referring to the set of communication devices and protocols available for a particular application. Each SIAMTIC application usually has a unique entry point. Namespace Shell Extension or NSE Represents a COM server that targets hierarchical storage and is accessible to Windows Shell clients such as 'Windows Explorer' and 'Windows Internet Explorer'. resource management Windows standard terminology refers to viewing namespaces and their subfolders in the "left" pane of 'Windows Explorer' (or the folder view in 'Windows Internet Explorer'). A single item that has no sub-item representation (eg a file) need not be shown in the 'Explorer' view. Open The standard Windows term for viewing the contents of folders in the "right" pane of Windows Explorer. This view shows BOTH files and subfolders contained in the current "Browse" item. "Open" is actually "looking from inside" the object. context menu A popup menu that is automatically displayed in response to a right mouse button click. Menu content can be context specific to where the user clicks.

Gen 3 MCs Available in 256KB & 64KB memory boxes for use with S7-22X G2E PLCs. This can be a storage box that can be "opened" with the 'S7-200 Explorer'. Detects but does not have to display previous memory boxes Gen1 (8k & 16k) and Gen 2 (32KB) in the 'S7-200 Explorer'. GBP 'Common block'. Blocks containing box directory information in 'area 1' and user file data in 'area 3'. UDM 'Upload Download Manager'. Multifaceted dialog in Microwin for managing memory boxes 'Programming' via PLC and 'Upload', 'Download' and 'Clear' operations. tree node Projects listed in the 'S7-200 Explorer' tree without subprojects. tree folder A project with subprojects listed in the tree view of the 'S7-200 Explorer'. In treemaps, the term folder can be used to indicate an item that is "browsed" or "opened" to view its contents.

Function Description

This subsection describes the potential layout and/or functionality of certain exemplary embodiments of the 'S7-200 Explorer'.

product expansion

Certain exemplary embodiments of the 'S7-200 Resource Manager' are obtained by either of the following two methods:

'S7-200 Explorer' is shipped and installed as a standard add-on to STEP7-Micro/WIN version 4.0. It is included on the same setup CD as STEP7-Micro/WIN, and/or is installed automatically with STEP7-Micro/WIN without additional user interaction.

'S7-200 Explorer' is also available as a free Internet download. Users do not have to purchase STEP7-Micro/WIN to obtain, install, and/or use the 'S7-200 Explorer'. When downloading and installing products from the Internet, a minimal setup interface may be provided to enable users to customize their installation.

installation options

When certain exemplary embodiments of the 'S7-200 Explorer' are downloaded and installed from the Internet, the user is asked to specify the following information:

Installation Directory - It is not necessary to give the user the option to pick the drive/directory where the 'S7-200 Explorer' will be installed. The default directory is C:\Program Files\Siemens\S7-200Explorer.

National Language - The user selects which 'National Language' to use for the 'S7-200 Explorer' interface. 'S7-200 Explorer' installs any national language supported by STEP7-Micro/WIN. The user will be asked to select which language they want for the installation. The default option for this selection is the national language selected for this installation.

When 'S7-200 Resource Manager' is installed implicitly as part of a STEP7-Micro/WIN installation, the installation directory can be the peer directory where STEP7-Micro/WIN is installed, and/or be named 'S7-200 Resource Manager device'. The national language of the 'S7-200 Explorer' is automatically set to the national language selected for the STEP7-Micro/WIN installation text.

installation artifacts

Installing certain exemplary embodiments of the 'S7-200 Explorer' (in any of the ways described above) causes the following changes to the user's system.

Start Menu

所特有。Windows 

‘开始’菜单的版面略有不同。Refresh the user 'Start Menu' to include selections of 'My S7-200 Networks' and/or 'S7-200 Explorer Help'. These two options appear in the 'S7-200 Explorer V1.0' folder, which itself can be placed under the SIMATIC folder. The SIMATIC folder can be used as a container for the SIMATIC software on the user's machine. At this point, the 'S7-200 Explorer' acts as a peer for any installed version of STEP7-Micro/WIN. Figure 6 shows the 'Start' menu of an exemplary embodiment of the 'S7-200 Explorer' stand-alone installation. Note some details on this screenshot for Windows

Unique. Windows

The layout of the 'Start' menu is slightly different.

Desktop shortcut

'S7-200 Explorer' places two shortcuts on the user's desktop that match the items added to the start menu. FIG. 7 provides a description of exemplary embodiments of these shortcut icons.

PG/PC interface

S7-200 Explorer installs the same communication support software as STEP7-Micro/WIN, no matter which installation option is used. Moreover, 'S7-200 Explorer' uses the same communication entry point as STEP7-Micro/WIN. Therefore, any change in communication settings while one is working will affect the other.

change/remove installation

 wizard。用户从对话框进行下面选择：The 'S7-200 Explorer' has a separate entry in the 'Add Program'/'Remove Program' dialog, as described in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8 . Click the 'Change'/'Remove' button to start the 'S7-200 Explorer'

wizard. The user makes the following selections from the dialog:

Remove the current installation. This option allows the user to uninstall the 'S7-200 Explorer'.

OS dependencies/compatibility

'S7-200 Explorer' installs and runs on all OS versions supported by the operating system/STEP7-Micro/WIN4.0 version.

STEP7-Micro/WIN dependency/compatibility

The 'S7-200 Explorer' installs all components necessary for its own operation. It requires no component or DLL dependencies on specific versions of STEP7-Micro/WIN. For this reason it is compatible with all existing versions of STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Compatibility with other SIMATIC products

The 'S7-200 Explorer' does not need to have specific compatibility issues with other SIMATIC products. It coexists with other SIMATIC applications to the same extent as STEP7-Micro/WIN4.0 version.

"My S7-200 Network" namespace

"My S7-200 Network" may be a Windows Namespace Shell Extension (NSE) that allows users to browse the "contents" of their S7-200 network in the same way as they browse their file system. The "My S7-200 Network" NSE can appear as a hierarchical container accessed from the 'Windows Explorer'. Examples of common namespaces used in Windows could be "Control Panel", "My Computer", "My Network Locations", etc. Namespaces also contain namespaces below them. The ability to integrate into the Windows shell creates some unique opportunities to allow the Microsystem control interface to have the look and feel of being part of the user's Window experience, as well as some unique integration capabilities such as scheduled uploads of 'data logging'.

Access "My S7-200 Networks"

Once the 'S7-200 Explorer' is installed on the user system, the 'My S7-200 Network' NSE becomes a node under 'My Computer' in the 'Windows Explorer'. Therefore, anytime the user starts 'Windows Explorer' it can access 'My S7-200 Network'. Users also have the ability to specifically launch the 'My S7-200 Network' NSE via either the 'Start Menu' or 'Desktop' icons. Note that in both cases the 'Windows Explorer Shell' is started as the 'root' node with 'My S7-200 Network'.

标准操作的综述about

Summary of Standard Operations

'My S7-200 Network' NSE can be combined with 'Windows Explorer' in a completely seamless manner. Utilizing such a combination produces very standard behavior that need not be explained here. As a general rule, the 'My S7-200 Network' namespace can behave in a very standard way supporting the same keyboard and mouse behavior as any other Windows namespace. This application illustrates some of the functions and behaviors specific to 'My S7-200 Network' and any examples that override the standard behavior of the Windows namespace. Where the application fails to describe a specific function, it is considered to match Windows standards.

Also consider the standard Windows layout and behavior to vary slightly between different Windows versions. Also, the app doesn't have to attempt to account for differences in standard behavior and layout between versions. running on windows Screenshots of the application were created on the PC.

namespace project

'My S7-200 Network' can act as a node when accessing the namespace. It may or may not be the root item in the interface, depending on the method used to start the namespace. Figure 9 shows the layout of an exemplary embodiment of a namespace when launched as part of the "My Computer" namespace in 'Windows Explorer'. Note that the act of enabling a namespace as part of 'My Computer' does not necessarily make the namespace "browsable". Thus the 'My S7-200 Network' project can be used as a node.

context menu

In some embodiments, when the user selects the 'My S7-200 Networks' item and clicks the right mouse button, a context menu showing available options is displayed. What follows is a description of certain exemplary embodiments of each menu option, what it does, and the rules governing its availability.

对所有名字空间供应的默认选项。它使所选项目的内容显示在‘资源管理器’视图的右手格中或者折叠成树节点。Expand/Collapse - this can be Windows

The default option provided for all namespaces. It causes the content of the selected item to be displayed in the right-hand pane of the 'Explorer' view or collapsed into a tree node.

Explorer - It opens new 'Explorer' window. The 'Folders' view can be the same, but the items are expanded in the right-hand view of the 'New Explorer' window.

Open - This menu item displays the contents of the PLC project in a standalone 'Explorer' view, without the left-hand 'Folder' view.

Modem Connection - This menu item only appears if the user's current communication settings specify a modem connection. This menu item launches the 'Modem Connection' dialog. Note that this menu item reads "Modem Disconnected..." if a modem connection is currently active. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

Modem Setup - This menu item appears when the user's current communication settings specify a modem connection. This menu item launches the 'Modem Setup' dialog. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

PG/PC Interface - This menu option is visible to Namespace items. It launches the PD/PC interface dialog. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

Add IP Address - This menu option appears when the user's current communication settings specify 'Ethernet' communication. This menu item launches the 'IP Address Browser' dialog. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

Create Shortcut - Use this menu option to create a Windows shortcut to a namespace item. This shortcut is placed on the desktop by default.

Properties - This menu option displays the properties page for the namespace item. This is described in detail in the next section.

Help - This menu option starts the help for the 'S7-200 Explorer'.

namespace attribute

When the user selects "Properties" from the namespace item context menu, the properties dialog box of Figure 10 is displayed. The properties dialog contains a product version and a read-only display of the current communication parameters. Model this display after the information displayed in the 'STEP7-Micro/WIN Communication' dialog. The information shown above is for PPI connections. Other types of connections, such as Ethernet, represent slightly different information.

double click support

Mouse double-click behavior on namespace items can be the same as selecting "Expand" from the context menu.

Expand Namespace Contents

Whenever the namespace is refreshed (either explicitly by selecting the refresh option from the 'Windows Explorer' main menu, or implicitly by selecting the context menu option), the 'My S7-200 Network' content. The resulting view is very similar to the network lifetime list shown in the STEP7-Micro/WIN "Communication" dialog. The screenshot in Fig. 11 shows an example of an 'S7-200 network' with all possible item types detected.

'My S7-200 Network' now appears as a folder containing items for each device on the network. The items in the 'My S7-200 Networks' folder are sorted by network address. The address also appears when the user selects Ethernet communication. Figure 11 shows the 'S7-200 Ethernet' example.

Regardless of the network type, devices on the network are listed in network address order. There are four different types of items listed in the namespace. The following sections detail the functionality of each.

PLC project

'S7-200PLCs' on the network appear as items in the Namespace folder. The tab for each PLC in the folder view (left-hand pane of the 'Explorer' interface) includes in brackets the network address (either 'Profibus' or 'Ethernet') read from the PLC following the PLC model and firmware revision. Specific icons are available for each PLC type. Note that the 16x16 (small) icons can be identical for all PLC types. Figure 12 lists the possible PLC icons (32x32 pixel version) that appear in the namespace and their associated PLC types. PLC items can appear with or without a zoom indicator ("+" sign). The zoom indicator appears if the PLC has an attached Gen 3 memory cartridge.

context menu

Right-clicking on the PLC project (in the left or right pane of the Explorer view) displays a context menu of available options. What follows is a description of each potential menu option, what it does, and the rules governing its availability.

供应的默认选项。其使得所选项目的内容显示在‘资源管理器’视图的右手格中。Expand/Collapse - For all namespace items this is Windows

Default option supplied. It causes the contents of the selected item to be displayed in the right-hand pane of the 'Explorer' view.

Explorer - It opens new 'Explorer' window. The 'Folders' view is the same, but items can be expanded in the right-hand view of the new 'Explorer' window.

Open - This menu item shows the contents of the PLC project in a separate 'Explorer' view, without the left-hand 'Folder' view.

Modem Connection - This menu item appears when the user's current communication settings specify a modem connection. This menu item starts the 'Modem' connection dialog. Note that this menu item reads "Modem Disconnected..." if a modem connection is currently active. Selecting this menu option causes the namespace to refresh.

Modem Settings - This menu item appears when the user's current communication settings specify a modem connection. This menu item launches the 'Modem Settings' dialog. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

PG/PC Interface - This menu option is always visible for namespace items. It launches the PD/PC interface dialog. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

Add IP Address - This menu option appears when the user's current communication settings specify Ethernet communication. This menu item launches the 'IP Address Browser' dialog. Select this menu option to refresh the namespace.

Create Shortcut - Use this menu option to create a Windows shortcut directly to the PLC project. This shortcut is placed on the desktop by default.

Help - This menu option starts the help for the 'S7-200 Explorer'.

TD200 project

TD200 devices (firmware version 2.01 and later) connected to the network appear in the namespace when the user has the selected PPI communication.

context menu

The context menu for a TD200 project is the same as that shown for a PLC project. Note that the TD200 device usually only appears in the namespace when the non-Ethernet communication option is selected, so the "Add IP address..." option does not necessarily appear in the context menu of the TD200 project.

Also, there is usually no additional information available for TD200 projects, so by using the 'Expand', 'Resource Manager', or 'Open' context menu options usually nothing is available. These menu options still function as expected (as expected for empty folders in Windows Explorer), but usually do not display additional information.

unknown item

When a device responds to its address pick but not to a read SD0 request, the device appears as an "unknown" entry in the namespace. This may include S7-300 PLCs, 'operator' panels, or TD200 devices older than version 2.01. However, because the device does not respond to SD0 read requests, type or version information is generally not available for the device.

context menu

The context menu for 'unknown' items is the same as displayed for PLC items. The 'Unknown' item appears for any communication option, so the menu options described earlier apply.

As with the TD 200 device, there is usually no additional information available for 'unknown' items, so by using the 'Expand', 'Resource Manager', or 'Open' context menu options you usually get nothing. These menu options still function as expected (as expected for empty folders in Windows Explorer), but usually do not display additional information.

Items that do not appear

When a user communicates via an Ethernet interface, the network is usually not selected to determine the current device. Instead, the user usually configures the addresses he wants to see (using the 'IP Address Browser' dialog either in STEP7-Micro/WIN or available from the context menu in the namespace). If the user configures the network address of an undiscovered device, the address may be displayed as a "<not present>" node. This simulates what would appear in the STEP7-Micro/WIN communication dialog in the same environment.

context menu

The context menu of the "does not appear" item is the same as displayed for the PLC item.

"Not present" items usually get no additional information, so by using the 'Expand', 'Resource Manager', or 'Open' context menu options usually get nothing. These menu options still function as expected (as expected for empty folders in Windows Explorer), but there is usually no need to display additional information.

PLC block project

The PLC project can be expanded to view the block contents of the PLC device. This information is displayed as follows:

Clicking or double-clicking the left mouse button on the 'PLC Block Item' causes the contents of the PLC device to be listed in the right-hand pane of the Explorer view. Figure 13 shows this.

Selecting the context menu option 'Explorer' produces the same display of information, but launches a new 'Explorer' window that is displayed. Existing 'Explorer' views are not affected.

Selecting the context menu option 'Open' also opens the new 'Explorer' view, but displays the message that there is no 'Folder' view, as shown in Figure 14.

PLC includes the following items:

Any items that appear are listed in the order above.

context menu

The context menu of the 'PLC Block' item contains a single option for 'Properties'. Double-clicking on the 'PLC Block' item also launches the properties dialog.

Properties dialog

When the user selects "Properties" from the context menu of the 'PLC Block' item, the property dialog box shown in Fig. 15 is displayed. Note that the various sizes in the screenshots are for example purposes only. For an actual block, the 'total size' field may represent the sum of the 'header' size, the 'area 1' size, and the 'area 3' size.

The Properties dialog box has the following features:

The dialog 'Title' is the PLC block project name plus 'Properties'.

The top area of the dialog box repeats the PLC block name and displays the icon used by the PLC block in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'Total Size' field shows the block size on the PLC. Note that this is the total size of the block and not just the 'region 1' size.

The 'Created' field is the creation time of the PLC block. The format of the date and time is the same as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

The 'modified' field is the modification time of the PLC block. The format of the date and time is the same as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

Gen3 Storage Box Project

If the PLC device on the network has a Gen 3 memory box installed, then the PLC item is displayed with a magnification indicator (+). Clicking on the zoom-in indicator refreshes the left-hand "folder" grid to show the Gen 3 storage box. This action does not affect the right-hand pane of the 'Explorer' view.

context menu

256KB - The storage box item can display the following in the context menu.

提供的默认选项。在存储盒情况下，因为在其下面没有子文件夹目标来展开，其被禁止。Expand - this is for all namespace folder items created by Windows

The default options provided. In the case of a storage box, it is disabled because there are no subfolder objects below it to expand.

Explorer - It opens new 'Explorer' window. The 'Folders' view can be the same, but with items expanded in the right-hand view of the new 'Explorer' window.

Open - This menu item shows the contents of the PLC project in the standalone 'Explorer' view, without the left-hand 'Folder' view.

Clear All - This menu option allows the user to clear the contents of the Gen 3 storage box. Since this is a destructive action and usually not impossible, the user is asked to confirm this option.

Create Shortcut - This menu option creates a Windows shortcut directly to the Gen 3 Storage Box item. This shortcut is placed on the desktop by default.

Properties - This menu option opens the storage box's properties dialog.

Help - This menu option starts the help for the 'S7-200 Explorer'.

The 'Block Properties' shown on the screenshot of Figure 16 shows the contents of the box and the current distribution in terms of bytes and percentage of total box space. The items can be color coded and categorized by type. Percentages less than 1% are indicated by the <1% symbol. Percentages may not exactly add up to 100% because of rounding calculations. The 'Used' and 'Available' percentages always add up to 100%. The byte size listed on the line always adds the "Used" value, and "Used" plus "Available" always adds up to the total bucket size.

Chunks - the total size of 'chunks' stored in the MC.

Data block + V-memory - copy the full size of the 'V memory' image stored in the 'data block' by PLCs at any time to the MC. The 'Data-Block' and 'V-Memory' images can be overlapped, and the size is usually always to the 'V-Memory' of the box + 'Data-Block Area 3' & header programmed PLC.

System Block + Output Table - The total size of the 'system block' plus the 300+ bytes occupied by the output table.

PLC/overhead - mainly GPB overhead + a small amount of PLC data overhead.

Recipes - Each recipe identified by the wizard name is listed separately by the user.

Data Records - Each 'Data Record' identified by the wizard name is listed separately by the user.

User Files - Displays each user file stored in the storage box individually. size is the actual compressed size used.

Expand Storage Box Items

Storage box projects are folders very similar to PLC projects. The contents of the storage box items are displayed as follows:

Clicking or double-clicking the left mouse button on a Gen 3 storage box item causes the contents of the storage box device to be listed in the right pane of the Explorer view. The screenshot in Figure 17 shows this.

Selecting the 'Explorer' option of the context menu option produces the same information display, but launches a new 'Explorer' window for the display. Existing 'Explorer' views are not affected.

Selecting the 'Open' option of the context menu option also opens the new 'Explorer' view, but displays the information of the 'Folder' view without hierarchy, as shown in Figure 18.

Expanded Storage Box Contents

Once the Gen 3 Storage Box item is expanded, the following items are listed:

List the 'Storage Box' contents in the order of the table above. Specific sequences within project groups are referred to in the following sections.

PLC block project

'PLC Blocks' items listed in Gen 3 storage boxes ('Program Blocks', 'Data Blocks', 'System Blocks') generally do not support additional functionality and generally cannot be expanded or opened. The context menu provided for PLC blocks contains the "Properties" option. Double-clicking the left mouse button on the 'PLC Block' item also launches the properties dialog.

Properties dialog

When the user selects 'Properties' from the contextual options for a PLC block item, the same properties dialog as detailed in the earlier 'PLC Block' section can be displayed.

Prescription Items

Gen 3 storage box items contain (0-4) recipe items, each of which corresponds to STEP7-Micro/WIN wizard configuration. List the prescription configurations provided on the MC in order of prescription number. Note that recipe configurations can be created either with the recipe wizard or with the TD200 wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'icon' displayed for the prescription item is the same icon used by the prescription wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The recipe item 'name' is the name assigned by the user to the wizard configuration in STEP7-Micro/WIN. Appended to this name in parentheses is the prescription number in the form "(RCP x)", where "x" is 0 to 4.

The 'size' of a prescription item is the total amount of space the prescription takes up in the storage box.

The 'modified' time of the recipe item is the last time of the wizard configuration edited in STEP7-Micro/WIN. Note this does not represent download time.

The 'creation' time of the recipe item is when the wizard configuration is created in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Recipe items do not support add-ons and cannot be expanded or opened. The context menu provided for recipe items has a "Properties" option. Double-clicking the left mouse button on a recipe item also launches the properties dialog.

Properties dialog

When a user selects "Properties" from a recipe item's context menu, the properties dialog box of FIG. 19 may be displayed.

The properties dialog has the following features:

The dialog 'Title' is the name of the recipe item plus "Properties".

The top area of the dialog box can repeat the prescription item name and display the icon for the prescription wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'Size' field shows the size of the prescription configuration in the storage box.

The 'data set' field shows the number of prescription data sets associated with the prescription configuration.

The 'Created' field may be the creation time of the prescription configuration. The date and time can be in the same format as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

The 'Modified' field is the modification time of the prescription configuration. The date and time can be in the same format as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

data logging item

The Gen 3 storage box project contains (0-4) datalogging projects, each of which corresponds to the STEP7-Micro/WIN datalogging wizard configuration. The data logging configurations provided on the MC are listed individually in order of their data logging numbers.

The 'icon' displayed for the data logging item is the same icon used by the data logging wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The data logging item 'name' is the name assigned by the user to the configuration of the data logging wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN. Appended to the name in parentheses is the data record number in the form "(DAT x)", where "x" is 0 to 4.

The 'size' of a datalog item is the total amount of space the datalog takes up in the storage box.

The 'Modified' time of the data log item is the last time of the configuration of the data log wizard edited in STEP7-Micro/WIN. Note this does not represent download time.

The 'Create' time of the Datalog item is the time when the Datalog Wizard configuration was created in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

context menu

A data logging item displays the following in its context menu:

Upload - This menu option allows the user to upload the data recorded for this project from the memory box. This is discussed in more detail below. Double-clicking an item with the left mouse button has the same effect.

Open Uploaded File - This menu option repeats the choices shown. When checked it indicates that when a user uploads from a namespace, the uploaded CSV file can be opened with the currently logged CSV file editor (usually Excel). If not checked, the 'Data Record' can still be uploaded without opening the editor. If running as a shortcut, then since the user may not be present, this selection will have no effect and the CSV editor will not be opened, but instead the error received will be written to the CSV file instead of being displayed (see 'Shortcut' & 'Auto Upload ').

Create Shortcut - This menu option creates a shortcut to the 'Datalog' upload and places it on the user's desktop.

Properties - This menu option displays the Properties dialog for the 'Datalog' item, as discussed below.

Data logging shortcut & automatic upload

The user can influence the 'scheduler' provided with Windows to perform automatic uploads of any or all 'data records'. When used in conjunction with the 'clear upload' set in the wizard, this becomes a powerful data collection feature which creates a CSV file readable by automated programs such as Excel or Access to track items that are important to the user, e.g. Sale and billing. The user sets up the scheduler until it runs, and restarts the computer without accessing it, the 'scheduler' automatically opens and logs in to the user as the 'scheduled' account.

To create a scheduled task, a user typically completes the following steps:

1) Create shortcuts for 'data records' uploaded in regular intervals.

2) Drag and drop the shortcut of 'Data Record' into the 'Scheduled Task' folder determined as a subfolder under 'Control Panel' in 'Windows Explorer'.

3) Double-click the shortcut and set the time and frequency to perform the upload.

4) Set up the login and password of the user account where the scheduled task will run (if networking the machine).

Figure 20 shows the result of 'step 2'.

Figure 21 shows a Windows XP dialog box that allows the user to schedule start and end dates and the frequency at which scheduled tasks are performed. This is 'step 3'.

Figure 22 shows a Windows XP dialog box that allows the user to schedule when and how often the task ('data log' upload) will be performed.

Figure 23 shows a Windows XP dialog box that allows the user to set a user name and password for running. This is 'step 4' which is usually only necessary if the user has set up a user login account on the machine connected to the network.

When the 'scheduled task' is set correctly, even if the user is already in the process of using the machine or no matter whether the user has restarted the machine to run automatically, you can still open the 'S7-200 resource manager' and upload by the set interval without record data record'. The uploaded CSV file can be sent to the following path: C:\program Files\Siemens\Microsystems\DataLogs\.

CSV files have the following naming conventions:

"(PLC_Address)-USER_OK_DATA_RECORD_NAME_DATE_TIME.CSV

((PLC_ADDRESS)-USER_DEFINED_DATA_LOG_NAME-DATE-TIME.CSV)".

Note that the colon ":" and slash "/" can be stripped from the date and time since they are not normally allowed in Windows file names.

The example of FIG. 24 represents a data record configured to run every hour on time from April 17th at 5:00 until April 18th. These files can be read by double-clicking them or in an automated fashion using Excel, Access or other databases that read CSV files.

Properties dialog

When the user selects "Properties" from the context menu of the data logging item, the property dialog box of Figure 25 can be displayed, and this property has the following characteristics:

The 'Title' of the dialog box is the data record name plus "Properties".

The top area of the dialog box can repeat the data logging item name and display the icon for the data logging wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'Size' field shows the size of the data record configuration in the storage box.

The 'Records' field shows the number of stored data records relative to the data record configuration in the storage box.

The 'Timestamp' field indicates 'Yes' or 'No'. This is the option previously set by the user in the data logging wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'Date Stamp' field is indicated as 'Yes' or 'No'. This is the option previously set by the user in the data logging wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'Clear Upload' field indicates 'Yes' or 'No'. This is the option previously set by the user in the data logging wizard in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The 'created' field may be the creation time of the data record configuration. The date and time can be in the same format as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

The 'Modified' field is the modification time of the data record configuration. The date and time can be in the same format as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

Data logging shortcut

'Data Logging' has a shortcut item created on the desktop. Users can move the shortcut to the desired location and recall the shortcut from the Windows file itself, drag it to

'Scheduled tasks' folder to run at set intervals, or double-click it using Explorer. Executing the shortcut (regardless of the method used) attempts to upload a 'datalog' and output it to a .CSV file in the 'datalog' folder. Executing from a shortcut is considered irrelevant and does not necessarily show user errors but errors can be written to the .CSV file.

Upload stored data

Selecting "Upload" from the context menu, double-clicking the datalog item in the 'S7-200 Explorer', or double-clicking/running the 'Datalog' shortcut allows uploading of the stored datalog and converting it to 'comma-separated Value' (CSV) format. Stored data can be stored in the C:\programFiles\Siemens\Microsystems\Data Logs folder using the naming convention of the PLC address in brackets (either the PPI address or the Ethernet address followed by a hyphen followed by the user-defined wizard name is another hyphen followed by the DATE set by the current language setting shared by Microwin in the current culture of Windows, followed by a hyphen followed by TIME in the Windows culture followed by .CSV ('Comma Separated Values') extension) . Note that slashes ("/") and colons (":") can be stripped and replaced with hyphens because they are not used in Windows file naming conventions.

Users can choose to open the uploaded file. This behavior implies interactive operation, so it means that even if the user double-clicks on a shortcut, it only applies to right-clicking or double-clicking from the 'S7-200 Explorer' itself and not from any shortcut. This is because the S7-200 Explorer can detect if an upload operation was initiated from a shortcut, but not from an automated task such as a 'scheduled task' execution or from a batch file or VB/Java file script.

The user can select the "Open Uploaded File" option from the right context option. If this item is checked (check it repeatedly) and the user uploads directly (not from a shortcut) from the 'S7200 Explorer', the Namespace Explorer can see if there is a CSV file association. If there is no application associated with ".csv", information indicating this fact may be displayed to the user, but uploads performed with CSV files go to the 'Data Records' folder as described above.

file item

A Gen 3 memory cartridge item contains any number of file items limited only by the space available on the cartridge. Each file item that occurs on the MC can be listed separately in alphabetical order:

The 'icon' displayed by the file item is the registered icon for use with the operating system file type (extension). Note that this varies from user to user.

The 'name' of a file item is the file name plus the file extension. NOTE These can often be displayed together. The Windows setting for "Hide extensions for known file types" does not necessarily have an effect on this display.

The 'size' of the file item is the size of the compressed file. Note that this may differ from the actual file size.

The 'modified' time of a file item is the modification time of the file. Note that this does not represent when the file was placed on the storage box.

The 'created' time of a file item is the creation time of the file. Note that this does not represent when the file was placed on the storage box.

context menu

File items can display the following in their context menus:

剪贴板上存在文件时激活该菜单选项。该选项将剪贴板上的文件写到MC上。当文件项目具有实现此功能的焦点时用户也可使用Ctrl+V键组合。Paste - usually only in

This menu option is activated when there is a file on the clipboard. This option writes the files on the clipboard to the MC. Users can also use the Ctrl+V key combination when a file item has focus to achieve this functionality.

Delete - removes the file from the storage box. Since this is a destructive action and usually not impossible, the user is asked to confirm this option. The user can also use the DEL key when the file item has focus to enable this functionality.

Properties - Displays the properties dialog for the file.

drag and drop support

Namespaces can support drag and drop files using Gen 3 storage box items. Users can drag files from a Gen3 storage box project and drop them into a directory on their hard drive or onto their desktop. Likewise, placing a file on a Gen 3 storage box causes it to be stored in the storage box (if space is available). The file item is the only item in the 'My S7-200 Network' namespace that supports drag and drop. A namespace may support a "drag-copy" operation, where dragging an item creates a copy. Namespaces do not necessarily support "dragging", where dragging an item removes it from its original location.

Item with duplicate file name

When a user attempts to place a backup file item on a Gen 3 storage box, this operation can overwrite the existing file item. Because this is a destructive action and usually not impossible, the user is asked to confirm this action. This applies to both sticky and "placed" items on Gen 3 storage boxes.

Properties dialog

When the user selects the "Properties" item from the file item context menu, the properties dialog box of Figure 26 is displayed. This dialog can be modeled after the 'File Properties' dialog provided by Windows. The properties dialog has the following features:

The dialog title is the file item name plus "Properties".

The top area of the dialog box repeats the file item name and displays the icon registered with the operating system for that type of file (determined by the file extension). Note that this icon differs between user systems.

The 'File Type' field displays the registered file type of the file item. This string is from the record and varies between user systems.

The 'Open' field displays the application (with icon) recorded for the given file type. Also, this application is from records, which may vary between user systems.

The 'Size' field shows the actual file size. Note that this is not the same size as the file item displayed in the storage box.

The 'Compact Size' field shows the size of the text item on the storage box. File items can be compressed to save space on the storage box. The size matches the display in the file item's Explorer view. The percentages shown are for compressing the file to its original file size. If compression does not save at least one byte, then the file can be saved uncompressed and the compressed size also indicates that the file is not compressed.

The 'Created' field may be the creation time of the file. The date and time can be in the same format as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

The 'Modified' field is the modification time of the file. The date and time can be in the same format as the timestamp in the Windows file property page.

Folder View Options

Windows supports different views of items in namespaces. The 'My S7-200 Network' namespace supports the following view options:

Large Icons - Namespace items display 32x32 icons. The volume label of the PLC project is the network address of the PLC. All other namespaces can display their names as volume labels.

Small Icons - Namespace items can display 16x16 icons. This item can display the same label as the 'Large Icons' option.

List - Can display namespace items in a vertical list. The PLC project displays its 16×16 icon and network address. All other items can display their 16x16 icons and names.

Description - All screenshots in this document depict the "Description" view. Part of each namespace entry records the information displayed in the Description view.

Classification

Windows usually provides a breakdown of each column of information in the Help view. A category may represent an ascending sort of files starting with all 'chunks', followed by all 'recipes', followed by all 'data records', followed by user files. These files can be subcategorized alphabetically. Click on a column heading to sort by that column. Click again to sort in descending order.

Refresh namespace content

Refreshing the namespace enables communication to run and determine network content. Note that refreshing the namespace at any time will change its contents, invalidating the currently selected item. When this happens, the current selection reverts to the namespace item. Refreshing the namespace may also generate errors. When refreshing the namespace encounters an error, all entries are cleared, an error message is displayed (discussed below), and the selection reverts to the namespace entry.

Certain behaviors in namespace views make additional information visible without necessarily refreshing the view. For example, if the user has refreshed the view (collected information about all running devices on the network), they can shrink/expand the tree items (by clicking the "+" or "-" indicators associated with the icons) without causing another One refresh. This behavior can simply extract information, not collect it again. In summary, the namespace may follow the criteria set by the "My Computer" namespace as it pertains to when to refresh and simply fetch data.

error handling

Whenever an error occurs while executing a user request, an error dialog can be displayed with a specific error message and links to possible solutions. The title of the error dialog includes the current communication interface. The close key always appears in dialog boxes. Other keys of the dialog box may or may not be visible, depending on the specific error and the user's current communication settings. The screenshot in Figure 27 shows an example of an error dialog with all keys visible.

The 'PG/PC interface'... key is visible when the error is communication related.

The 'Modem Setup'... key is visible when the error is communication related, and the user selects modem communication.

The 'Close key' may always be visible.

possible error conditions

Any communication errors that may occur in STEP7-Micro/WIN may also occur in the 'S7-200 Explorer'. The text displayed for these errors matches that displayed by STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Errors specific to Gen 3 storage box operation are also possible. See the GPB description for additional error messages that may occur with GPB operations, such as insufficient space for the operation.

Certain errors may occur when users create desktop shortcuts to namespaced items (PLC or Gen 3 storage boxes). When the user selects the shortcut, the item no longer appears on the web. A specific error message is displayed in this situation.

Desktop shortcut

Installing 'S7-200 Explorer' puts the desktop shortcut in the 'My S7-200 Network' namespace, as described earlier. Users also have the option to create desktop shortcuts directly on the 'PLC' project, the 'Data Logging' project and the 'Gen 3 Storage Box' project. When a user creates a desktop shortcut, the shortcut's icon matches the item's icon in the namespace. The text of the shortcut also matches the text of the item in the namespace.

When the user selects one of these desktop shortcuts, the namespace item represented by the shortcut can be launched in its 'Explorer' view. If the user selects the 'Open' context menu option for an item in the All Namespaces view, the resulting display is exactly as it would be produced, except that the 'Datalog' uploaded but not opened by the 'Explorer' appears. same.

Whenever the desktop shortcut to the Namespace item is started, communication can be initiated to "refresh" the S7-200 network. An error is generated if communication cannot be established or if the item represented by the shortcut is no longer present on the network. In both cases, an error dialog box is generated with information specific to the error condition. See the Error Handling section for more information.

Note that when users remove 'S7-200 Explorer' from their machines by uninstalling, usually only those desktop shortcuts provided by the installation are removed. It is not necessary to remove any desktop shortcuts created by users. It is likely that these shortcuts no longer work, and Windows can identify errors resulting from attempts to launch shortcuts.

My S7-200 network multiplex example

Because the "My S7-200 Network" namespace is integrated with Windows Explorer, when the user starts the example of "Windows Explorer" at any time, the namespace example can also be started. The 'My S7-200 Network' multiplex example can exhibit the same communication behavior/limitations as the STEP7-Micro/WIN two examples and can break away from the process server addressing used by the Microsoft system programs.

GPB

GPB refers to the "general purpose block" that contains the storage box directory information in area 1 and the compressed user files in area 3 (if any). If available, the 'S7-200 Explorer' uses the IGPB200 interface to quickly poll the contents of the memory box. If not available, it usually picks a single chunk and uploads the headers to determine the size. In conclusion the 'S7-200 Explorer' generally behaves the same with and without GPB. Design details of the GPB and IGPB200 can be found in the document VOB under DocumentCtrl\S7-200\Programming Tools\Engineering Documents\Theories ofOperation\General Purpose.doc.

user guide

Browse the S7-200 network

'S7-200 Explorer' combined with 'Microsoft Windows Explorer' to allow browsing of PPI or Ethernet networks. After installing the 'S7-200 Explorer' application, create new nodes in the 'Windows Explorer' called 'My S7-200 Networks'. If the STEP7-Micro/WIN 4.0 version is installed on the computer, then the 'S7-200 Explorer' application is already available without further installation.

Browse the PPI Network

Double-click the node "My S7-200 Networks", and 'Windows Explorer' can browse the PPI network representing the list of attached devices. All possible network addresses can be selected for the attached device. When a device is found, it may be identified and displayed, as shown in FIG. 28 . The network address assigned to each device is listed in parentheses.

Tip: Use the F5 key at any time to refresh the list if a device is connected to or removed from the PPI network.

Note: Not all PLCs and memory boxes support the 'S7-200 Explorer' functionality. Please refer to the 'S7-200 System Manual' for a complete list of hardware features and options.

Browse the Ethernet network

Double-clicking on the node "My S7-200 Network", the 'Windows Explorer' shows the pre-configured list of IP addresses and the status of the attached device. In Ethernet networks, IP addresses are usually configured rather than automatically determined. To configure the IP address, use the 'IP Address Browser' application. The application can be accessed by using the corresponding right mouse menu item of the node "My S7-200 Networks", as shown in Figure 29.

Note: Please refer to the STEP7-Micro/WIN help system to use the 'S7-200 Ethernet' and 'Internet' modules for more information on installing an industrial Ethernet network.

communication settings

'S7-200 Explorer' shares the following communication parameters with STEP7-Micro/WIN programming software:

Entry Point (Example Micro/WIN -> PC/PPI Cable)

local address

Communication rate (baud rate)

port

Other network parameters

To change the communication settings, use the 'Set PG/PC Interface' application. The application can be accessed by using the corresponding right mouse menu item of the node "My S7-200 Network".

Note: Please refer to the STEP7-Micro/WIN help system for more information on installing PPI or Industrial Ethernet networks.

using a modem

If the communication settings can be set to use a modem connection, a modem connection can be established before browsing the 'S7-200 Network'. To establish a connection, use the 'Connect Modem' application. The application can be accessed by using the corresponding right mouse menu item of the node "My S7-200 Network", as shown in Figure 30.

After the modem connection is established, the 'S7-200 Network' can be browsed. Double-click the node "My S7-200 Network", and the 'Windows Explorer' will show a list of additional devices. All possible network addresses can be selected for the attached device. When a device is found, it can be identified and displayed. The network address assigned to each device is listed in parentheses.

Remember to disconnect! When done using the 'S7-200 Explorer' the modem connection must be terminated by disconnecting manually. Closing 'Windows Explorer' does not necessarily disconnect the modem. To disconnect, use the corresponding right mouse menu item of the node "My S7-200 Network", as shown in Figure 31.

Browse S7-200PLC

Double click on any S7-200PLC to browse the contents of the PLC. PLC can contain any of the following:

Program block (item)

data block (item)

System Block (Project)

storage box (folder)

In Windows Explorer, usually only folders are listed in the left pane. A storage box contains additional items, so it can be a folder. Because the storage box may be the only folder, only storage boxes are listed in the left pane.

Both folders and projects can be listed in the 'right' pane of 'Windows Explorer', as shown in Figure 32.

Browse Storage Boxes

Double-click on the 'Storage Box' to browse the contents of the storage box. A 'storage box' may contain any of the following:

Program block (item)

data block (item)

System Block (Project)

Recipe configuration (up to 4 items)

Data logging (up to 4 items)

User Files (Projects)

In 'Windows Explorer' only folders are usually listed in the 'left' pane. There are usually no folders in the storage box, so all the above items can be listed in the 'right' pane of the 'Windows Explorer', as shown in Figure 33.

Retrieve data record value

To retrieve the 'Datalog' value of a storage box, double click on the 'Datalog' node. This data can be uploaded from the storage box and formatted as a .csv file (comma separated values file). Then open the file with an application that has been associated with the .csv file extension. Usually the application is Microsoft Excel.

NOTE: There must be an application associated with the .csv file extension prior to uploading the 'Data Record' value.

NOTE: If you set the wizard option to clear the uploaded 'Datalog' value, you must ensure that the data is saved. Use the associated application Microsoft Excel and save the data to familiar directories and file names.

The screen image shown in Figure 34 is an example of a 'Data Record' value uploaded to Excel. Values can be uploaded and opened in Excel by double-clicking the 'Data Logging' node of 'Windows Explorer'.

Tip: It is recommended to execute the 'Save' function immediately to save the data to a familiar directory and file name.

Add user files

You can use the free space of the storage box to store the STEP7-Micro/WIN project files or other files you want to save. Compress these files when dragging and dropping them to the storage box node using the 'S7-200 Explorer'. It is not necessary to use a stand-alone compression application such as WinZip. If the file is already compressed, it is usually not necessary to do a second compression. The properties of any file dropped on the storage box can be viewed using the right mouse menu item "Properties".

To add files to the storage box, simply drag and drop the files onto the storage box folder. Copy and paste can also be done using the right mouse menu item.

storage box properties

The right mouse menu item 'Properties' displays the screen shown in Figure 35. This screen can be used to quickly summarize the used and available free space in the storage box.

clear storage box

The right mouse menu item 'Clear' on the 'Storage Box' node allows to erase all items.

Other embodiments of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from reading the foregoing detailed description of certain exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that various changes, modifications and additional embodiments can be made, and all such changes, modifications and additional embodiments are considered to be within the spirit and scope of the present application. For example, no matter the content of any part of this application (eg, title, field, background, summary, abstract, drawings, etc.), unless clearly specified to the contrary, such as by an express definition, there is no requirement that any claim contained herein or any application to which priority is claimed by any specifically described or illustrated activity or element, or by any particular order of such activities or any particular interrelationship of such elements. Also, any activity can be repeated, performed by multiple entities, and/or any element can be duplicated. In addition, any activities or elements may be excluded, the order of activities altered, and/or the interrelationship of elements altered. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded as descriptive in nature and not restrictive. Also, unless expressly indicated otherwise, any number or range described herein is approximate. Any range described herein includes all numerical values and all subranges therein unless expressly indicated otherwise. Information in any material incorporated by reference herein (e.g., U.S. patents, U.S. patent applications, bibliographies, articles, etc.), is incorporated by reference only to the extent that such information is incompatible with the other statements and drawings described herein There is no conflict between. In the event of such a conflict, including a conflict that renders any claim or claim of priority herein invalid, then the conflicting information present in material incorporated by reference is expressly not incorporated by reference herein introduce.

Claims (29)

1. method, this method comprises:

Linked PLC by the automatic recognition memory of PLC; With

But dispose PLC automatically by the PLC software program for execution that resides on the storer.

2. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: reception memorizer.

3. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: read storer automatically.

4. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: but the PLC software program for execution selected automatically from a plurality of software programs that reside on the storer.

5. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: but but select the PLC software program for execution automatically from a plurality of PLC software program for execution that reside on the storer.

6. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: but automatically perform the PLC software program for execution.

7. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: determine the parameter relevant automatically with PLC.

8. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: the value of discerning the one or more parameters relevant automatically with PLC.

9. according to the method for claim 1, further comprise: the value that the one or more parameters relevant with PLC are set automatically.

10. according to the process of claim 1 wherein that storer comprises a plurality of e-files.

11. according to the process of claim 1 wherein that storer is suitable for being connected to any one of a plurality of PLC.

12. method according to claim 1, wherein storer comprises a plurality of e-files, these a plurality of e-files comprise following one of them at least: program block, data block, system block, prescription, data recording and user journal, described prescription are represented input value and/or the setting value of a plurality of PLC of passing to handle.

13. according to the process of claim 1 wherein that but the PLC software program for execution is that PLC puts program.

14. according to the process of claim 1 wherein that storer comprises at least one EEPROM.

15. a system comprises:

The memory identification module, it is suitable for having linked PLC for the automatic recognition memory of PLC; With

The PLC configuration module, but it is adapted to pass through the PLC software program for execution that resides on the storer and disposes PLC automatically.

16. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: the memory identification module is suitable for reception memorizer.

17. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: the memory identification module is suitable for reading automatically storer.

18. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: but the PLC configuration module is suitable for selecting the PLC software program for execution automatically from a plurality of software programs that reside on the storer.

19. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: but but the PLC configuration module be suitable for selecting the PLC software program for execution automatically from a plurality of PLC software program for execution that reside on the storer.

20. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: but the PLC configuration module is suitable for automatically performing the PLC software program for execution.

21. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: the PLC configuration module is suitable for determining automatically the parameter relevant with PLC.

22. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: the PLC configuration module is suitable for the value of one or more parameters that identification is relevant with PLC automatically.

23. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: the PLC configuration module is suitable for being provided with automatically the value of the one or more parameters relevant with PLC.

24. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: storer comprises a plurality of e-files.

25. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: storer is suitable for being connected to any one of a plurality of PLC.

26. system according to claim 15, wherein: storer comprises a plurality of e-files, these a plurality of e-files comprise following one of them at least: program block, data block, system block, prescription, data recording and user journal, described prescription are represented input value and/or the setting value of a plurality of PLC of passing to handle.

27. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: but the PLC software program for execution is the PLC configurator.

28. according to the system of claim 15, wherein: storer comprises at least one EEPROM.

29. a system comprises:

PLC；

The memory identification module, it is suitable for having linked PLC for the automatic recognition memory of PLC; With

The PLC configuration module, but it is adapted to pass through the PLC software program for execution that resides on the storer and disposes PLC automatically.

Images