CN1993662A - A method for accessing and browsing a plc provided within a network - 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

Be used for accessing and browsing the method for the PLC that arranges at network

The cross reference of related application

The application requires the priority of following U.S. Provisional Patent Application on record, and which is hereby incorporated by reference with it:

Sequence number 60/577,804 (agent's document No.2004P09695US), application on June 8th, 2004;

Sequence number 60/577,943 (agent's document No.2004P09696US), application on June 8th, 2004; With

Sequence number 60/577,823 (agent's document No.2004P09697US), application on June 8th, 2004.

Background technology

PLC configuration usually is stored on the upper rather than device that disposing of CPU. Therefore, when portable device, be necessary the device on the new CPU of reconstruct. This is instant, expensive process, and/or when this device of reconstruct when new CPU uses, may need professional knowledge. Therefore, expectation obtains to make the effectively portable portable PLC configuration of device with corresponding configuration between the PLC. When the PLC device when moving between the PLC system or in identical PLC system, be necessary to be reconstructed so that device operates in the mode identical with the front.

The data of PLC control procedure is of crucial importance for the operation and maintenance of PLC system. For accurately and safely safeguarding the control system based on PLC, need a large amount of information that is independent of practical operation PLC program.

Have and help operation and maintenance based on the data of the various ways of PLC control system. These data comprise PLC Control Engineering firsthand information, engineering data, wiring diagram, CAD figure etc. Yet conventional PLC system does not generally store the ability of these data. Therefore, can't utilize these data to safeguard, realize that upgrade-system is portable and/or it is existing to expand or new PLC system. Therefore, must independently be given information by maintenance and/or engineering staff to each PLC of conventional PLC network. Conventional system and the method for the upper control information file of this PLC are instant and/or expensive.

In the conventional system, be necessary to develop special-purpose software and PLC network connection and communicate by letter. Needs generation special session frame and/or window are checked the information about appended PLC, and so provided information may be very limited. Usually, can not adopt normative document management and browser, for example microsoft resource manager.

Therefore, hope and to browse comfortable and quickly the PLC network and/or important and helpful information about each PLC is provided when the user browses the PLC network age. And, the state of also expecting to determine fast the content of PLC network and/or being attached to the various PLC in the network.

General introduction

Some exemplary embodiment comprises system, interface, computer-readable media and/or method, and they can be automatically:

But based on the software program for execution configuration PLC that resides on the memory that is connected to PLC;

Non-PLC information equipment user is provided the PLC network as network node and/or provides PLC (and/or be connected to the memory of PLC, etc.) as the network node parts;

So that non-PLC information equipment user can browse PLC network, PLC and/or be connected to the memory of PLC, etc.; And/or

So that non-PLC information equipment user can search for PLC network, PLC and/or be connected to the memory of PLC, etc., to obtain at least one of corresponding one or more search parameters.

Description of drawings

With reference to the accompanying drawings, will be more readily understood various potential embodiment by following detailed description to some exemplary embodiment, wherein:

Fig. 1 is the block diagram of system's 1000 exemplary embodiments;

Fig. 2 is the flow chart of method 2000 exemplary embodiments;

Fig. 3 is the flow chart of method 3000 exemplary embodiments;

Fig. 4 is the flow chart of method 4000 exemplary embodiments;

Fig. 5 is the block diagram of information equipment 5000 exemplary embodiments;

Fig. 6 to 35 is screen images (shot) of S7-200 explorer exemplary embodiment.

Definition

Here basically below using, during term, use its additional definitions:

One---at least one.

Access---approach, enter, withdraw from, communicate by letter and/or utilize.

Movable---operation, behavior, step and/or its process or part.

Be suitable for---make to be fit to or to adapt to specific use or situation.

The address---identify the code of an information storage position and/or node placement position.

Allow---permit and/or make generation.

Animation---the visual figure with changing of human eye.

Device---apparatus or the equipment of special-purpose.

The sound that audio frequency---people's ear can be listened and change.

Automatically---basically to be independent of mode effect or the operation of external action or control. For example, automatic lamp switch one " is seen " in its visual field has the people namely to open, and does not need the manual operation light switch.

Piece project---logical division packet, for example program block, user's piece and/or system block etc.

Browse---accidental, random and/or autotelic checking.

Can---at least in certain embodiments can.

The signal of operation is determined in order---enabled instruction.

Messaging parameter---with through the relevant variable of network service.

Comprise---contain but be not limited to.

Configuration---for specific purpose designs, arranges, arranges and/or is shaped.

Connect---physics and/or logically connection.

The theme of content---writing task and/or e-file.

Data---usually format and/or organize to express the various different information of concept with special or preordering method.

Data block---be exclusively used in the part memory of one or more groups data of storage.

Data record---data event record.

Limit---set up its profile, form or structure.

Determine---find out, obtain and/or calculate.

EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Read Only Memory)---nonvolatile memory, it uses the technology similar to floating gate among the EPROMs but has the ability that makes the floating gate discharge.

E-file---possess as a whole the set that is stored in related data in the memory or program record of single name.

The Computer Networking based on framework of Ethernet---LAN (LANs). Distribution and the signaling of its definition Physical layer, and frame format and the agreement of medium access control (MAC)/osi model datalink layer connection.

Can carry out---can move.

Carry out---operation.

Document creation---generate the data of e-file above it.

Embodied on computer readable and/or the user of filename---e-file can read identifier.

File type---be used for generating and/or opening the application program indicator of e-file.

Firmware---be stored in by the program in the nonvolatile memory of integrated circuit structure.

File---computer documents set; The computer documents catalogue; The representative project is the icon in the graphic user interface of computer documents set for example.

Figure---diagrammatic representation.

Hierarchy---meet the visible hierarchical pattern of various standards, this pattern has continuous level or layer.

Highlight---identify, illuminate and/or grip one's attention.

Icon---in graphic user interface (GUI), object is figure, the screen display of file, program, file or disc driver for example.

Identification---name; Set up identity and/or existence.

The demonstration of image---photo and/or other picture.

Information equipment---any equipment that can process information, any general and/or special purpose computer for example, as PC, work station, server, microcomputer, main frame, supercomputer, terminal, notebook computer, can wear computer and/or ' personal digital assistant ' (PDA), the hardware electronic logic circuit of portable terminal, ' bluetooth ' equipment, communicator, " intelligence " telephone set (for example like Treo equipment), information service (for example Blackberry) receiver, pager, fax, mobile phone, conventional telephone set, telephone plant, program control microprocessor or microcontroller and/or peripheral integrated circuit component, ASIC or other integrated circuit, for example discrete element circuits and/or the programmable logic device of PLD, PLA, FPGA or PAL etc. for example, etc. Usually the equipment of placing finite state machine above any can be used as information equipment, this finite state machine can be carried out at least a portion here described method, structure and/or graphic user interface. Information equipment comprises the parts of knowing, the user interface of one or more network interfaces, one or more processor, one or more memory that contains instruction and/or one or more I/O (I/O) equipment, the one or more I/O of being connected to equipment for example, etc.

I/O (I/O) equipment---any sense organ guiding input-output apparatus, for example sense of hearing, vision, sense of touch, sense of smell and/or sense of taste guide device, comprise for example watch-dog, display, projecting apparatus, high-level display device, keyboard, keypad, mouse, tracking ball, control stick, gamepad, wheel, touchpad, touch panel, pointing device, microphone, loudspeaker, video camera, camera, scanner, printer, haptic apparatus, oscillator, touching simulation device and/or touch pad, may also comprise the port that I/O equipment can add or be connected thereto.

Example---something appears, for example actual certain single body that uses. Each example of certain kind is to its example variable, and namely its state possesses different value.

Instruction---be suitable for carrying out the order of specific operation or function.

Item (project)---computer document, file, capacity, disk and/or node.

Machine readable medium---machine can therefrom obtain the physical arrangement of data and/or information. Example comprises memory, card punch etc.

Management---instruct or control its use; Handle.

Can---allow at least in certain embodiments.

Memory device---can store analog or digital information, such as the device of instruction and/or data etc. Example comprises nonvolatile memory, volatile memory, ' random access memory ' RAM, ' read-only storage ' ROM, flash memory, magnetizing mediums, hard disk, floppy disk, tape, light medium, CD, compact disk, CD, digital versatile disc, DVD and/or Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disc etc. Memory device for example according to the embodiments described herein, can be linked processor and/or storage and be suitable for the instruction carried out by processor.

Method---realize process, step and/or the correlated activation set of something.

Revise---electronic file content changes.

The name space shell extension---in following mode customization function is added to the mechanism of operating system, namely customization function is to user's substantially seamless part of operating system seemingly.

A plurality of nodes of network---communication connection.

Network interface---information equipment can be connected to any equipment, system, subsystem and/or the software of network. For example, network interface can be that telephone set, mobile phone, cells modulate demodulator, phone data modem, fax modem, wireless transceiver, Ethernet card, cable modem, Digital Subscriber Line interface, bridger, hub, router or other are managed like device and/or the software of this equipment.

Node---link the information equipment of network.

Non-PLC information equipment---not the information equipment of PLC.

Operating system---control peripheral hardware, scheduler task, allocate storage and when not running application, the user is provided the bottom software of default interface. Think that operating system can be divided into all the time the kernel that exists and various use are provided to carry out the function of higher level internal affairs task by kernel system program. It usually is used as server in the client-server relation. Think that operating system comprises graphic user interface and window system.

Customization---arrange and/or provide.

Parameter---variable.

PC---be designed to the mini-computer that operated at any time by the people.

The PLC configurator---be suitable for disposing the program of PLC.

The network of PLC network---communicative couplings PLC.

A plurality of---many and/or more than one.

Poll---inspection state is to check whether specific external event has occured.

PPI (point-to-point interface)---be used for the Peer Data Communication interface that certain PLC operator interface connects, for example ' Siemens S7-200 ' the series of PLC.

Predetermined---determine in advance.

Present---introduce, provide, illustrate, show and/or be provided for considering.

Preview---observe in advance or demonstration; Introduction or preliminary information, sample and/or general survey; Prediction.

Processor---carry out equipment and/or a cover machine readable instructions of one or more preplanned missions. Processor comprises any hardware, firmware and/or software or its combination. Processor can utilize machinery, pneumatic, waterpower, electric, magnetic, optics, information, chemical and/or biological principle, signal and/or input are executed the task. Among some embodiment, but processor by operation, analysis, modification, conversion, transmission of information information is worked and uses for execution in step and/or information equipment, and/or information is sent to output equipment. Processor is as CPU, local controller, remote controllers, parallel controller and/or distributed director etc. If do not indicate other mode, processor can be common apparatus so, for example microcontroller and/or microprocessor, for example ' Pentium IV ' series microprocessor of the Intel company of Santa Clara, California manufacturing. Among some embodiment, processor can be special equipment, for example be designed in its hardware and/or firmware carry out at least a portion here the embodiment that discloses ' application-specific IC ' (ASIC) or ' field programmable gate array ' (FPGA).

Profibus (' Process FieldbusROFIBUS ')---general, open and manufacturer's independence type fieldbus and/or the token ring bus that in automatic technology, uses.

Program---make a particularly group coding instruction of computer carry out desired operation in tandem of machine.

Program block a---part is exclusively used in the memory of the one or more programs of storage.

Programmable logic controller (PLC) (PLC)---assess one group of input and equipment automatically-monitored and/or that factory is controlled and/or processes is provided according to programmed instruction. PLC can be used for following purposes, comprises material conveying, material suction, material manufacturing, generating, power distribution, heating system, ventilating system, air-conditioning system, chemical treatment, mining, machine-building, packing and/or Distribution of materials etc. PLC can be connected with the first network of non-information equipment such as sensor and/or driver in communication. PLC can be connected with the second network of information equipment in communication.

The parameter of attribute---e-file.

Provide---supply with, supply and/or so that can utilize.

Read---obtain.

Receive---take out, obtain, obtain and/or be given.

Prescription (recipe)---a plurality of input values and/or setting value, each is corresponding to treatment variable and can be delivered to the PLC program to process.

Identification---discover or represent the reception of validity.

Statement (render)---discernable.

Resident---be in and/or exist.

Operation---in the operation.

Search---investigation, check and/or detection.

Search parameter---the standard of restriction search.

Select---choose.

Group, collection---similar is a plurality of.

Size---physics and/or virtual memory quantity that e-file takies.

Software---be stored in the write-in program in the volatile memory.

Specify---clearly and/or in detail show.

The physics of memory location---e-file and/or virtual location.

Storage---typically in memory, place, keep and/or the reservation data.

Be stored on the PLC network---be stored in the node and/or the memory devices that are connected on the PLC network node.

Basically---very on a large scale or on the degree.

The set of system---mechanism, equipment, data and/or instruction, this set is used for carrying out one or more specific functions.

System block a---part is exclusively used in the memory of the one or more operating system programs of storage.

Time---about generating and/or revising date and/or time.

Text---by the literal of computer as data.

The user---with the interactional personnel of information equipment.

User interface---any equipment that gives user profile and/or receive information from the user. User interface comprises at least one of text, figure, audio frequency, video, animation and/or tactile element. For example can provide text element by printer, watch-dog, display, projecting apparatus etc. For example can provide graphic elements by watch-dog, display, projecting apparatus and/or visual indicating equipment etc., visual indicating equipment is cursor, flag, beacon etc. for example. For example provide audio components by loudspeaker, microphone and/or the generation of other sound and/or receiving equipment. For example provide video element or animation elements by watch-dog, display, projecting apparatus and/or other visual device etc. For example can provide tactile element by very low frequencies loudspeaker, oscillator, sense of touch driver, touch pad, simulator, keyboard, keypad, mouse, tracking ball, control stick, gamepad, wheel, touchpad, touch panel, indicating equipment and/or other haptic apparatus etc. User interface can comprise one or more text element, for example one or more letters, numeral, meet etc. User interface can comprise one or more graphic elements, for example image, photo, view, icon, window, title bar, panel, data logger, tabulation, drawing, matrix, chart, form, calendar, outline view, picture, dialog box, static text, textbox, tabulation, selective listing, ejection tabulation, disconnection tabulation, menu, toolbar, harbour, check box, OptionButton, hyperlink, browser, button, control, palette, preview panel, color wheel disc, dial, slide block, scroll bar, cursor, status bar, steeper and/or progress indicator etc. Text and/or graphic elements can be used for following content is selected, programmes, adjusts, changes, specified etc., that is: the space of a whole page, background color, background form, preset, seal ring thickness, foreground color, font, font, font size, aligning, between-line spacing, indentation, maximum data length, checking, inquiry, cursor type, pointer type, autosizing, position and/or size etc. User interface can comprise one or more video elements, for example the element of sound volume control device, tone control device, speed control unit, sound selecting arrangement and/or the broadcast of one or more control audio frequency, speed, time-out, F.F., counter-rotating etc. User interface can comprise one or more video elements, the element that for example control video playback, speed, time-out, F.F., reverses, dwindles, amplifies, rotates and/or tilt etc. User interface can comprise one or more animation elements, for example controls animation broadcast, time-out, F.F., reverses, dwindles, the element of amplification, rotation, inclination, color, brightness, speed, frequency, the space of a whole page etc. User interface can comprise one or more tactile element, for example utilizes the element of haptic stimulus, power, pressure, vibration, motion, displacement, temperature etc.

User journal---with one or more user-dependent logouts.

Video---the visible change picture of human eye.

Capacity---disc driver and/or virtual disk driver.

Windows series---any the operating system that its name " Windows " is arranged and provided by ' Redmond, WA Microsoft ' is provided.

Describe in detail

Some exemplary embodiment comprises a kind of method, and the method comprises: linked PLC by the PLC recognition memory; But with dispose PLC by the PLC software program for execution that resides on the memory. Some exemplary embodiment comprises a kind of method, and the method comprises: provide the name space shell extension of PLC network as non-PLC information equipment operating system by the PLC network interface; And make the PLC network become network node to non-PLC information equipment user. Some exemplary embodiment comprises a kind of method, and the method comprises: provide the name space shell extension of PLC network as non-PLC information equipment operating system by the PLC network interface; And search PLC network is to find at least one item of corresponding one or more search parameters.

Programmable logic controller (PLC) (PLC) is used for wide spectrum of use traditionally, controls from the factory automation to the waste water treatment plant, and factory controls to engine management system from chemical treatment. Each application typically comprises writes the instruction manual book with unique program of control particular system event sequence.

Now, many industries are come suitable operation and complicated commercial plant and the processing procedure of monitoring with programmable logic controller (PLC). Programmable Logic Controller is usually according to the control program operation that stores, this program so that the signal of controller by the one or more checkout gears of assessment (for example temperature or pressure sensor) check by control machine state and/or processing, with based on program frame, sensor signal and move machine and/or treatment element (for example by excitation or remove the excitation running gear) based on more complicated processing in case of necessity.

PLC inputs (simulation and/or discrete) collection information from various sensors. PLC utilization for example ' relay ladder logic ' comes deal with data, and ' relay ladder logic ' is a kind of computer program based on ' hardwire segment logic '. When user program collection and control pick-up data, PLC sends suitable output signal to control the operation of its jockey. The result usually is monitoring or safer, the more effective operation of control device.

Administrative staff usually monitor at least off and on by one or more central management station and process operation. Controller (and related sensor) the state sampling that each management station can select the operator and/or the data that provide the meaning form. This management station may be in or also may not be in, the position identical with supervising device; Central management station possesses the path (no matter whether these positions carry out associative operation) to a plurality of positions usually.

Programmable logic controller (PLC) (PLC) adopts pocket memory to store. The memory that can be storage box can also be Electrically Erasable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). But memory can be used for storing one or more PLC software program for execution, prescription, data logging, processing record, program record, user file etc. Each project in these projects can be used as discrete binary or text is stored on the memory.

Memory also can comprise the private memory piece, for example program block, data block and/or system block. Each of these pieces can be used for that PLC came before but the PLC software program for execution is carried out and/or the term of execution store temporarily.

In case memory is linked PLC, but automatic read memory is disposed PLC to detect the PLC software program for execution and can automatically perform this program.

PLC can have network interface, and this interface allows some remote information equipment that PLC is used as network node, for example the node of PLC network. PLC and/or remote information equipment comprise interface software, and this software is so that remote information equipment can use the mode consistent with the remote information device operating system to explain PLC network, PLC, storage box, storage box file structure and/or file itself.

Therefore, remote information equipment for example moves Windows XP operating system, and PLC, memory and/or memory contents be used as and/or become project in network node, equipment, label, file, file and/or the hierarchical paths. As another example, storage box appears in ' window explorer ' (perhaps other path drawing people interface) as the project of hierarchical paths, and this path comprises PLC network, PLC, storage box and/or memory contents (it can become and/or be used as file).

But the PLC interface software that resides on the information equipment allows the user to process the file that resides on the memory devices to reside in any other recognition node, equipment, label, file etc. same way as top and/or the inside file with processing. Like this, the user just can copy files to memory and/or from the memory copy file, file on memory deleted file, the rename memory etc.

And, the multiple illustration of PLC interface software supporting document (instance), thereby can show the multiple Windows that the identical or different view of these files is provided.

File structure by PLC network, PLC, storage box, storage box are provided and/or to be stored in the file on the storage box by the discernible mode of remote information device operating system, the PLC interface software allows the user by remote information device operating system build-in function, and search resides in above PLC network, PLC, storage box etc. and/or the file of the inside. Therefore, for example the user can search for following any file, for example have in the name " flow chart ", possess " .pdf " expansion, that before 20 days January in 2005, created, at rear file that revise, that possess the special icon relevant with it etc. on January 24th, 2005. This search can be returned the listed files consistent with search criterion.

And, utilizing the function of search of operating system and/or be installed in other software on the remote information equipment, the PLC interface software allows user search to reside in above PLC network, PLC, storage box etc. and/or the file content of the inside. Therefore, for example the user can to search for the institute of the file phrase " T-101 high level alarm " that is arranged on any PLC and/or the remote information equipment visibility storage box on the books. This search return the listed files consistent with search criterion and/or highlight, preview and/or otherwise identification comprises the file of the text corresponding with search parameter, figure, photo, audio clips, video etc.

Fig. 1 is the block diagram that comprises system's 1000 exemplary embodiments of one or more PLC1100. Any given PLC1100 comprises processor 1100, memory 1120, I/O Interface 1130, memory identification device 1140, PLC configurator 1150, network interface 1160 and/or treatment system I/O Interface 1170.

With storage box and/or the equipment 1200 of storage PLC configurator insert, plug inserts, is coupled, is connected to PLC1100, received by PLC1100, etc., in PLC1100, identified and/or read memories 1200 by memory identification device 1140. Memory 1200 comprises plastics, Merlon, metal, aluminium etc. shell and/or one or more EEPROMs, flash drive and/or hard disk drive. Memory 1200 possesses from about 8KB to 120GB or larger memory capacity, comprises all values and subdomain therebetween. Memory 1200 possesses from about 8KB/ second to 120MB/ second or larger data transfer rate, comprises all values and subdomain therebetween. But memory is 1200 small and exquisite, lightweight, compact, can portable, replaceable heat exchange, at a high speed and/or plug and play. Memory 1200 meet ' closely flash memory ', 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, ' fire line ', ' forms such as fire line 800 ' and/or SCSI. Memory 1200 utilization safety, encryption and/or authentication software for example AES are protected any file and/or the data that wherein store.

Input-output apparatus 1300 for example watch-dog, keyboard, mouse, printer etc. can be connected to the I/O interface of PLC1100. Treatment system 1600 is linked treatment system I/O interface 1170, and it has a plurality of sensors, driver etc., and comprises machine and/or treatment element, is comprised of machine and/or treatment element, and and/or relevant with machine and/or treatment element.

With network 1400 for example the PLC network link network interface 1160. One or more non-PLC information equipments 1500 are linked network 1400, and information equipment 1500 stores, utilizes and/or operation PLC network interface 1520, PLC network service interface 1540 and/or PLC network user interface 1560 etc.

Fig. 2 is the flow chart of method 2000 exemplary embodiments. In activity 2100, storage box and/or equipment insertion, plug inject, are coupled to, are connected to PLC and received etc. by PLC. Movable 2200, but PLC and/or be stored on the PLC memory, relevant with PLC and/or be coupled to the memory identification device recognition memory of PLC etc. Movable 2300, but can read memory and/or a plurality of PLC software program for execution on residing in memory determine, identification and/or select to be stored in PLC configurator on the memory. In activity 2400, can carry out the PLC configurator of storage. Movable 2500, by the identification of PLC configurator, determine and/or one or more parameters that setting is relevant with PLC and/or these parameters in one or more values of each parameter, and/or dispose PLC with consistent with the value of these parameters.

Fig. 3 is the flow chart of method 3000 exemplary embodiments. Movable 3100, but the PLC network interface polled network relevant with non-PLC information equipment (for example one or more PLC networks) and/or link for example equipment of PLC of each network, and/or link the memory of PLC. Can identify the address of one or more PLC networks, each network and/or link one or more equipment of each network at movable 3200, PLC network interface. Movable 3300, therefore messaging parameter and/or value can and/or be linked the exchanged between equipment of PLC network at PLC network interface and PLC network, PLC network interface and PLC network and/or the equipment of linking the PLC network can communicate to connect, and/or at the PLC of PLC network interface and identification network and/or link the communication between devices of PLC network.

Movable 3400, the PLC network is offered non-PLC information equipment and/or explains name space shell extension as non-PLC information equipment operation system by it. Operating system can be PC operating system, Windows series operating system (for example Windows 2000, Windows NT, Windows XP etc.) member for example, Macintosh series operating system (OS 9, OS X etc.), Linux, Unix, Solaris etc. For each institute's identification equipment of linking the PLC network, the PLC network address offers the PLC network interface, by PLC network interface reception and/or definite. If necessary, can provide PLC network and/or link the multiple example of the equipment of PLC network.

Movable 3500, PLC network and/or the equipment of linking the PLC network are offered non-PLC information equipment user. For example, the PLC network is provided as label, catalogue, file and/or predetermined icon, for example network icon. As another example, provide portfolio item to each equipment of linking the PLC network and/or each file that is stored on such equipment. Portfolio item is provided as label, catalogue, file and/or predetermined icon, for example PLC and/or PLC memory icon. Like this, PLC network, PLC, PLC memory and/or the classification of PLC memory file are provided as hierarchy and/or path. The file project is for example provided with any order by the PLC network address (for example ' Process FieldbusROFIBUS ', PPI and/or ethernet address etc.), item types, provides such as alphabet sequence, date created order, modification chronological order and/or size order etc.

Movable 3600, mandate and/or permission user browse the PLC network, for example by using the file browser such as ' window explorer ' and/or Macintosh Finder, and/or by using IP browser, for example ' explorer ', FireFox and/or Safari etc.

Movable 3700, non-PLC information equipment user is determined to be stored in the information linked on the PLC network equipment and/or transmission of information between PLC network, the equipment of linking the PLC network and/or non-PLC information equipment. Response is sent the non-PLC information equipment user of information related command therewith and suitable pattern is provided. For example, provide icon and/or animation to indicate from the PLC memory to non-PLC information equipment or the process from non-PLC information equipment to PLC memory transfer file.

Fig. 4 is the flow chart of method 4000 exemplary embodiments. Movable 4100, the PLC network is offered non-PLC information equipment and/or explains name space shell extension as non-PLC information equipment operation system by it. For each institute's identification equipment of linking the PLC network, the PLC network address is offered the PLC network interface, by PLC network interface reception and/or definite. If necessary, can provide PLC network and/or link the multiple example of the equipment of PLC network. Provide PLC network, PLC, PLC memory and/or PLC memory file as hierarchy and/or path etc. for any mode such as the hierarchical approaches of non-PLC information equipment user in can be in many ways.

Movable 4200, the user can input and/or the PLC network interface relevant with non-PLC information equipment receives one or more search parameter value that the user is concerned about to search for one or more projects from the user, for example one or more PLC networks, PLC, PLC memory, PLC memory file and/or its content and/or metadata etc. Any one of a plurality of search parameters all can be selected, and for example comprises that any part, item types, establishment of item information, the project of item attribute, item address, project name revised information, temporal information, project storage information, item size, item text content, items graphics content, item image content, project audio content, project video content, project animated content etc. For example, the user can search for any file that contains literal on the books " asbestos ", " carcinogen ", " dangerous material ", " mercury " and/or " lead ".

Movable 4300, the PLC network interface starts the search to one or more PLC networks, PLC, PLC memory, PLC memory file and/or its content and/or metadata etc., value of providing of at least part of corresponding search parameter is provided for this, and/or the PLC network interface is determined and/or any coupling is provided.

In activity 4400, the project that at least a portion is confirmed by search offers the user, for example provides by the PLC network interface. Any determined project can be provided in the following manner, namely highlight, in context, provide and/or preview any so that think the entry portion of project coupling. For example, respectively provide 25 words in the both sides of search phrase " asbestos ", " carcinogen ", " dangerous material ", " mercury " and any records such as " lead ". With Search Results project weighted sum/or the ordering. Can provide the Search Results project with any order, for example according to grade, name (alphabet sequence), type, size, date created, modification date etc.

In activity 4500, the one or more Search Results of user's access and/or relevant information are for example by the PLC network interface. For example, by the project that provides as Search Results is provided, for the user provides additional information about this project. If project is file, open file so, it is mostly in the position that coupling occurs.

Fig. 5 is the block diagram of information equipment 5000 exemplary embodiments, and this equipment comprises the non-PLC information equipment 1500 of PLC1100 for example and/or Fig. 1 among embodiment in some operation. Information equipment 5000 can comprise any parts in many known components, for example the memory 5300 of one or more network interfaces 5100, one or more processor 5200, one or more include instruction 5400, one or more I/O (I/O) equipment 5500 and/or one or more user interfaces 5600 of linking I/O equipment 5500 etc.

In certain embodiments, by one or more user interfaces 5600 graphic user interface for example, the information that the user observes about PLC network and/or PLC provides.

The S7-200 explorer

Here some exemplary embodiment is called " S7-200 explorer ", it can combine to allow the user to browse the content of each PLC on its S7-200 network and/or the network with ' Microsoft's window explorer ' and/or ' Microsoft Internet Explorer '. The remaining part of this detailed description is described the presumable various different qualities of some exemplary embodiment of S7-200 explorer.

This part describes the term that uses in detail	Explanation
		The entrance	Finger is to the standard S7DOS term of the available communication equipment of application-specific and protocol groups. Each SIAMTIC application program possesses unique entrance usually.
Name space shell extension or NSE	Represent for example ' window explorer ' and ' Windows Internet Explorer ' accessible com server of target classification storage and Windows Shell client program.
		Resource management	The Windows standard terminology refers to check name space and the sub-folder in the lattice of ' window explorer ' " left side " (the perhaps Folders view in ' Windows is because of special explorer ') thereof. There is not sub-project to represent that the single project of (such as file) needn't be shown in ' resource management ' view.
Open	Refer to check the Windows standard terminology of window explorer " right side " lattice File folder content. This view illustrates BOTH file and the sub-folder that is included in current " browsing " project. " open " and be actually " from the inside " object.
		Context menu	Respond right mouse button and click the popup menu of automatic demonstration. Menu content can be the distinctive context in user click position.

Gen 3MC	Can be used for the 256KB﹠64KB storage box that uses together with S7-22X G2E PLCs. This can be the storage box that can " open " with ' S7-200 explorer '. In ' S7-200 explorer ', detect but storage box Gen 1 (8k ﹠16k) and Gen 2 (32KB) before needn't showing.
		GBP	' generic block '. In that ' zone comprises the storage box directory information in 1 ' and at ' the piece that comprises the user file data in the zone 3 '.
UDM	' uploading download manager '. By stage construction dialog box among the Microwin of PLC and ' uploading ', ' download ' and ' removing ' operational administrative storage box ' programming '.
		Tree node	The project that does not have sub-project of in ' S7-200 explorer ' arborescence, listing.
The tree file	The project that sub-project is arranged of in ' S7-200 explorer ' tree-like view, listing. In arborescence, the jargon file folder can be used for the project that its content is checked in indication " being browsed " or " opening ".

Function declaration

The potential space of a whole page and/or the function of ' S7-200 explorer ' some exemplary embodiment described by this branch.

Product launches

' S7-200 explorer ' some exemplary embodiment obtains by any of following two methods:

' S7-200 explorer ' is as transporting and install STEP7-Micro/WIN 4.0 release criteria being additional. It is included in identical arranging on the CD and/or along with STEP7-Micro/WIN together Auto-mounting as STEP7-Micro/WIN, and does not have additional user to interact.

' S7-200 explorer ' also downloaded as free internet and utilized. The user needn't buy STEP7-Micro/WIN to obtain, to install and/or to use ' S7-200 explorer '. When downloading and installing product from the internet, can provide minimum and the interface is set and makes the user can customize its installation.

Installation Options

When some exemplary embodiment of ' S7-200 explorer ' downloads and installs from the internet, can require the user to specify following information:

Installation directory---needn't choose and will the driver/catalogue of ' S7-200 explorer ' be installed for the user provides. Default directory be C: Program Files Siemens S7-200 Explorer.

Which kind of ' national language ' national language---user selection uses to ' S7-200 explorer ' interface. ' S7-200 explorer ' installs any national language that STEP7-Micro/WIN supports. To require which kind of language it wants to use in the user selection installation. The default option of this selection is for this selected national language to be installed.

When ' S7-200 explorer ' impliedly installed as part STEP7-Micro/WIN installation, installation directory can be the reciprocity catalogue that STEP7-Micro/WIN is installed, and/or called after ' S7-200 explorer '. The national language of ' S7-200 explorer ' is set to automatically STEP7-Micro/WIN the selected national language of text is installed.

Pseudomorphism is installed

Some exemplary embodiment of ' S7-200 explorer ' (in above-mentioned any mode) of installation is so that custom system produces following the variation.

Start menu

Refresh user's ' start menu ' to comprise selection ' my S7-200 network ' and/or ' help of S7-200 explorer '. These two options appear in the file of ' S7-200 explorer V1.0 version ', and itself can be placed under the SIMATIC file again. The SIMATIC file can be used as the container of SIMATIC software on the subscriber set. In this, ' S7-200 explorer ' is as the equity of any installation version of STEP7-Micro/WIN. Fig. 6 represents ' beginning ' menu of ' S7-200 explorer ' independent installation example embodiment. Some details of noting this screenshot capture are peculiar by Windows 2000 . Windows XP  ' beginning ' space of a whole page of menu is slightly different.

Desktop shortcuts

' S7-200 explorer ' places two shortcuts at user's desktop, itself and the project coupling that is added on the start menu. Fig. 7 provides the description of these shortcut icon exemplary embodiments.

The PG/PC interface

The S7-200 explorer is installed the communication support software identical with STEP7-Micro/WIN, no matter use which kind of Installation Options. And ' S7-200 explorer ' uses the communicate by letter entrance identical with STEP7-Micro/WIN. Therefore, any variation of communications setting in when work can affect another.

Change/remove installation

' S7-200 explorer ' possess the independent entrance in ' increase program '/' removing program ' dialog box, as shown in Figure 8 described in the exemplary embodiment. Click ' change '/' removing ' key starts the Installshield  wizard of ' S7-200 explorer '. User's selection below dialog box is carried out:

Remove current installation. This options allow users unloading ' S7-200 explorer '.

Operating system dependence/compatibility

' S7-200 explorer ' installation and operation on the os release that all operating system/STEP7-Micro/WIN4.0 version is supported.

STEP7-Micro/WIN dependence/compatibility

' S7-200 explorer ' installed all essential parts of himself operation. It does not need the parts of STEP7-Micro/WIN particular version or DLL dependence. For this reason, it can be compatible with all existing versions of STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Compatibility with other SIMATIC product

' S7-200 explorer ' do not need to have and the specific compatibling problem of other SIMATIC product. It is used with the degree coexistence identical with the STEP7-Micro/WIN4.0 version with other SIMATIC.

" my S7-200 network " name space

" my S7-200 network " can be Windows name space shell extension (NSE), and it allows the user to browse " content " of its S7-200 network in the mode identical with browsing its file system. It is fractionated container from ' window explorer ' access that " my S7-200 network " NSE can show as. The conventional name space example of using in Windows can be " control panel ", " my computer ", " my network site " etc. Name space also comprises the name space below it. The ability that is incorporated into the Windows shell produces some unique opportunity and allows Microsystem control interface to possess to become the look and feel that user Window experiences a part, and some unique integration capability for example the scheduling of ' data record ' upload.

Access " my S7-200 network "

In case ' S7-200 explorer ' is installed on the custom system, " my S7-200 networks " NSE just becomes the node under " my computer " in ' window explorer '. Therefore, whenever the user start ' window explorer ' but its all access " my S7-200 network ". The user also possess by or ' start menu ' or ' desktop ' icon start especially the ability of ' my S7-200 network ' NSE. Note in both cases, all use ' my S7-200 network ' that ' window explorer shell ' started and be " root " node.

Summary about Windows  standard operation

' my S7-200 network ' NSE can be with fully seamless mode and ' Windows explorer ' combination. The behavior that utilizes such combination to produce the very standard that needn't illustrate here. As general rule, ' my S7-200 network ' name space can show as other Windows name space in the unusual mode of standard and support identical keyboard and mouse behavior. This application program explanation ' my S7-200 network ' more distinctive functions and behavior, and any example that covers the criterion behavior of Windows name space. Fail to describe the place of specific function in this application program, think itself and Windows matches criteria.

Think that also the standard Windows space of a whole page and behavior can be slightly different between different version of windows. In addition, this application needn't attempt to illustrate the difference in criterion behavior and the space of a whole page between the different editions. On the PC of operation Windows 2000 , once set up the screenshot capture in this application program.

The name space project

When the access name word space, ' my S7-200 network ' can be used as node. Its may as or may be not as root Element in the interface, on deciding for the method that starts name space. Fig. 9 represents the space of a whole page of name space exemplary embodiment when starting as part " my computer " name space in ' window explorer '. Attention not necessarily makes name space " be browsed " behavior that name space starts as a part ' my computer '. Therefore ' my S7-200 network ' project can be used as node.

Context menu

In certain embodiments, when user selection ' my S7-200 network ' project and a mouse click right button, demonstrate the context menu that expression can utilize option. Next be some exemplary embodiment of each menu option, its content of doing and manage the explanation of its utilizability rule.

Launching/folding---this can be that Windows XP  is to the default option of all name space supplies. In the right hand lattice of its content of selected item is presented at ' explorer ' view or be folded into tree node.

Resource management---it opens new ' explorer ' window. ' file ' view can be identical, but project is launched in this ' new resources manager ' window right hand view.

Open---this menu item shows the content of PLC project in independence ' explorer ' view, and does not have left hand ' file ' view.

Modem connects---and this menu item only occurs when the current communications setting specified modulation of user demodulator connects. This menu item starts ' modem connection ' dialog box. Currently work so that this menu item shows as " modem disconnects ... " if notice that modem connects. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

Modem is installed---and this menu item occurs when user's current communications setting specified modulation demodulator connects. This menu item starts ' modem installation ' dialog box. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

PG/PC interface---visible this menu option of name space project. It starts PD/PC interface dialog box. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

Increasing the IP address---this menu option occurs when ' Ethernet ' communication is specified in the current communications setting of user. This menu item starts ' IP address browser ' dialog box. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

Create shortcut---this menu option is used for name space establishment of item Windows shortcut. This shortcut acquiescence places on the desktop.

Attribute---the property pages of this menu option display name space item. Describe this point in detail at next joint.

Helping---this menu option starts the help of ' S7-200 explorer '.

The name space attribute

When the user selects " attribute " from name space project context menu, show the properties dialog of Figure 10. This properties dialog contains product version and the read-only demonstration of current messaging parameter. The information that shows in ' STEP7-Micro/WIN communication ' dialog box is afterwards with this display model. The information that the above shows is suitable for PPI and connects. The information that the connection of other type (for example Ethernet) expression is slightly different.

Double-click and support

Mouse on the name space project is double-clicked behavior can be identical with selection " expansion " from context menu.

Launch the name space content

(perhaps refresh option is explicit carries out by selecting from ' window explorer ' main menu no matter when to refresh name space, perhaps context menu options is implicit carries out by selecting), can determine ' my S7-200 network ' content by the communication interface of the current selection of excitation user. The view that produces and the STEP7-Micro/WIN network life that shows in the dialog box of " communicating by letter " is tabulated closely similar. The screenshot capture of Figure 11 show possess detected might item types ' S7-200 network ' example.

' my S7-200 network ' is shown as the file that contains each device project on the network now. Project in ' my S7-200 network ' file is with network address sort. When the user selection ethernet communication, the address occurs equally. Figure 11 shows ' S7-200 Ethernet ' example.

Network type is whatsoever all listed device on the network with network address order. Four kinds of dissimilar projects of listing in name space are arranged. Below each joint each function is described in detail in detail.

The PLC project

' S7-200PLCs ' on the network shows as the project in the namespace file folder. The label of each PLC comprises and follows the revision of PLC model and firmware in the bracket from the network address (perhaps ' Process FieldbusROFIBUS ' or ' Ethernet ') that PLC reads in the Folders view (the left hand lattice at ' explorer ' interface). Can provide special icon to each PLC type. Attention can be identical 16 * 16 (small-sized) icon to all PLC types. Figure 12 is listed in possible PLC icon (32 * 32 pixel version) and the relevant PLC type thereof that occurs in the name space. The PLC project can with or be not with and amplify designator ("+" number) and occur. If PLC possesses additional Gen 3 storage boxes then designator occurs amplifying.

Context menu

Right-click PLC project (at left lattice or the right lattice of explorer view) shows the context menu that can utilize option. Next be to each potential menu option, its content of doing and manage the explanation of its utilizability rule.

Launching/folding---this is the default option of Windows XP  supply to all name space projects. Itself so that the content of selected item be presented in the right hand lattice of ' explorer ' view.

Resource management---it opens new ' explorer ' window. ' file ' view is identical, but can be in the right hand view of new ' explorer ' window expanded item.

Open---this menu item shows the PLC contents of a project in independent ' explorer ' view, and does not have left hand ' file ' view.

Modem connects---and this menu item occurs when the current communications setting specified modulation of user demodulator connects. This menu item starts ' modem ' and connects dialog box. Connect current working if note modem, this menu item shows as " modem disconnects ... " so. Select this menu option so that name space refreshes.

Modem arranges---and this menu item occurs when user's current communications setting specified modulation demodulator connects. This menu item starts ' modem setting ' dialog box. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

The PG/PC interface---this menu option is always visible to the name space project. It starts PD/PC interface dialog box. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

Increasing the IP address---this menu option occurs when ethernet communication is specified in the current communications setting of user. This menu item starts ' IP address browser ' dialog box. Select this menu option to refresh name space.

Create shortcut---this menu option is used for directly to PLC establishment of item Windows shortcut. This shortcut acquiescence places on the desktop.

Helping---this menu option starts the help of ' S7-200 explorer '.

The TD200 project

When the user possessed selected PPI communication, the TD200 device (firmware 2.01 versions and nearlyer version) that is connected to network appeared in the name space.

Context menu

The context menu of TD200 project with the PLC project is shown identical. Notice that the TD200 device only occurs in name space usually when selecting the non-Ethernet communications option, therefore " increasing the IP address ... " option not necessarily appears in the context menu of TD200 project.

And, the TD200 project be can not get the information of adding usually, therefore usually can not get whatever by use ' expansion ', ' resource management ' or ' opening ' context menu options. These menu options still move (as empty folder in to ' window explorer ' is desired) in the mode of expectation, but usually can display additional information.

Unknown project

Choose when its address of device responds but do not reply and read SD0 when request, equipment is shown as " the unknown " project in name space. It can comprise S7-300PLCs, ' operator ' panel or the TD200 equipment older than version 2 .01. Yet, because this equipment is not replied the SD0 read requests, this equipment be can not get type or version information usually.

Context menu

The context menu of ' the unknown ' project is identical with the demonstration of PLC project. ' the unknown ' project all occurs any communications option, and therefore the previous menu option of describing can be used.

The same with TD 200 equipment, ' the unknown ' project be can not get additional information usually, therefore by using ' expansion ', ' resource management ' or ' opening ' context menu options usually to can not get whatever. These menu options still move (as empty folder in to ' Windows explorer ' is desired) in the mode of expectation, but usually can display additional information.

The project that does not occur

When the user passed through the Ethernet interface communications, not choosing network determined present equipment usually. On the contrary, the user usually dispose its desired address of seeing (use or STEP7-Micro/WIN in or ' IP address browser ' dialog box that can context menu obtains from name space). If the user disposes the network address of undiscovered equipment, the address can be shown as "＜not occur〉" node so. This can simulate the content that occurs in the STEP7-Micro/WIN communication session frame of equivalent environment.

Context menu

The context menu of " do not have occur " project is identical with the demonstration of PLC project.

Project " do not occur " and usually can not get additional information, therefore by using ' expansion ', ' resource management ' or ' opening ' context menu options usually to can not get whatever. These menu options still move (as empty folder in to ' window explorer ' is desired) in the mode of expectation, but usually do not need display additional information.

PLC piece project

Deployable PLC project is checked the piece content of PLC equipment. This information shows according to the methods below:

Click or double-click on ' PLC piece project ' left mouse button so that the content of PLC equipment in the right hand lattice of explorer view, list. Figure 13 has represented this point.

Select context menu options ' resource management ' to produce the identical demonstration of information, but can start new ' explorer ' window of demonstration. Existing ' explorer ' view is unaffected.

Select context menu options ' to open ' and also can open new ' explorer ' view, but show the information that does not have ' file ' view, as shown in figure 14.

PLC comprises following project:

The project name	Rule	But acquired information	Explanation
				The 256K storage box	Only when having additional 256KB Gen 3 box, PLC occurs	Size	All total amounts that in box, exist (using+can obtain)
The 64K storage box	Only when having additional 64KB Gen 3 box, PLC occurs	Size	All total amounts that in box, exist (using+can obtain)
				Program block	Only when having the OB1 piece, PLC occurs. This piece can occur or not occur	Size	OB1 is size always
Revise	The modification time stamp of OB1
		Create	The creation-time stamp of OB1
Data block	Only when having the DB1 piece, PLC occurs. This piece can occur or not occur					Size	DB1 is size always
		Revise	The modification time stamp of DB1
				Create	The creation-time stamp of DB1
		System block	PLC has ' system block ' always. Depend on environment, it can be SDB0 or SDB2			Size	SDB is size always
Revise	The modification time stamp of SDB
				Create	The creation-time stamp of SDB

Any project that occurs is listed with top order.

Context menu

The context menu of ' PLC piece ' project comprises the single option of " attribute ". ' PLC piece ' project of double-click also can start properties dialog.

Properties dialog

When the user selects " attribute " from the context menu of ' PLC piece ' project, show the properties dialog shown in Figure 15. Notice that all size in the screenshot capture only is the purpose of giving an example. To the piece of reality, ' total size ' field can represent ' title ' size, ' zone 1 ' size and the ' summation of zone 3 ' size.

Properties dialog has following feature:

Dialog box ' title ' is that PLC piece project name adds " attribute ".

The dialog box top area repeats the PLC block name, and shows the employed icon of PLC piece among the STEP7-Micro/WIN.

' total size ' field can show the block size on the PLC. Note this be total size of piece and be not only ' zone 1 ' size.

' establishment ' field is the creation-time of PLC piece. The form of this date and time is identical with timestamp in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

' modification ' field is the modification time of PLC piece. The form of this date and time is identical with timestamp in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

Gen 3 storage box projects

If PLC equipment possesses Gen 3 storage boxes of installation on the network, the PLC project shows to amplify designator (+) so. Click the amplification refreshable left hand of designator " file " lattice Gen 3 storage boxes are shown. This action does not affect the right hand lattice of ' explorer ' view.

Context menu

Content below 256KB-storage box project can show in context menu.

Launching---this is the default option that all namespace file folder projects are provided by Windows XP . In the storage box situation, because there is not in its lower section the sub-folder target to launch, it is under an embargo.

Resource management---it opens new ' explorer ' window. Should ' file ' view can be identical, but project be launched in the right hand view of new ' explorer ' window.

Open---this menu item shows the content of PLC project in independence ' explorer ' view, and does not have left hand ' file ' view.

All remove---this menu option allows the user to remove the content of Gen 3 storage boxes. Because this is destructive action and does not usually accomplish, therefore require the user to confirm this option.

Shortcut---this menu option can be directly to Gen 3 storage box establishment of item Windows shortcuts in establishment. This shortcut acquiescence places on the desktop.

Attribute---this menu option is opened the properties dialog of storage box.

Helping---this menu option starts the help of ' S7-200 explorer '.

Storage box content and current distribution on ' storage box attribute ' shown in the screenshot capture of Figure 16 expression byte and total storage box space percentage. This project can be according to type color-code and classification. Percentage less than 1% is with＜1% symbolic representation. Because change whole calculating, percentage may not can add up to 100% exactly. The percentage of ' using ' and ' can obtain ' always adds up to 100%. The byte-sized of listing on the row always adds " using " value, and " use value " adds that " can obtain " value always adds up to total storage box size.

Program block---be stored in ' program block ' the total size among the MC.

Data block+V-memory---the whole sizes of ' V memory ' image that PLCs is stored in ' data block ' at any time copy to MC. ' data block ' and ' V-memory ' image can be overlapping, and size is usually always to box+' ' V-memory ' of the PLC of data block zone 3 ' ﹠ title programming.

System block+output formats---' system block ' adds total size of the 300+ byte that output formats takies.

The PLC/ expense---mainly be GPB expense+a small amount of plc data expense.

Prescription---listed respectively by the user with each prescription that the guide name is determined.

Data record---listed respectively by the user with each ' data record ' that the guide name is determined.

User file---show respectively each user file that is stored in the storage box. Size is used actual compression size.

Launch the storage box project

The storage box project is the file closely similar with the PLC project. The content of storage box project shows according to the methods below:

Click or double-click on the Gen 3 storage box projects left mouse button so that the content of storage box equipment list at the right lattice of explorer view. The screenshot capture of Figure 17 has represented this point.

Select ' resource management ' option of context menu options to produce identical information demonstration, but can start for new ' explorer ' window that shows. Existing ' explorer ' view is unaffected.

Select ' opening ' option of context menu options also can open new ' explorer ' view, but show the information of ' file ' view that does not have classification, as shown in figure 18.

The storage box content of launching

In case launch Gen 3 storage box projects, just can list following project:

The project name	Rule	Can obtain information	Explanation
				Program block	Only occur during with the OB1 programming of PLC at MC. This piece can occur or not occur.	Size	The size of whole OB1 among the MC
Revise	The modification time stamp of OB1
		Create	The creation-time stamp of OB1
Data block	Only occur during with the DB1 programming of PLC at MC. This piece can occur or not occur.					Size	The size of whole DB1 among the MC
		Revise	The modification time stamp of DB1
				Create	The creation-time stamp of DB1
		System block	Only occur during with the SDB0 programming of PLC at MC. This piece can occur or not occur.			Size	The size of whole SDB among the MC
Revise	The modification time stamp of SDB
				Create	The creation-time stamp of SDB
Prescription (referring to following explanation)	MC comprises 0 to 4 prescription configuration. List respectively each prescription configuration.					Size	The size of the upper prescription configuration of MC.
		Revise	The modification time stamp of prescription configuration.
				Create	The creation-time stamp of prescription configuration.
		Data record (referring to following explanation)	MC comprises 0 to 4 data recording configuration. List respectively each data record configuration.			Size	The size of the upper data record configuration of MC.
Revise	The modification time stamp of prescription configuration.
				Create	The creation-time stamp of prescription configuration.
File (referring to following explanation)	MC comprises 0 to a plurality of data files. List respectively each data file on the MC. If it is preserved then the file of compressible storage with at least one byte data, otherwise these files of the storage that can not compress.					Size	The compression sizes of file.
		Revise	The modification time stamp of file.
				Create	The creation-time stamp of file.

Order according to upper table is listed ' storage box ' content. Below each the joint in related to the particular order in the project team.

PLC piece project

' PLC piece ' project of listing in Gen 3 storage boxes (' program block ', ' data block ', ' system block ') is not usually supported additional function and usually can not be launched or open. The context menu that provides for the PLC piece comprises " attribute " option. The upper left mouse button of ' PLC piece ' project of double-click also can start properties dialog.

Properties dialog

When the user selects " attribute " to PLC piece project from the context option, can show with at previous ' the identical properties dialog that describes in detail in PLC piece ' one joint.

The prescription project

Gen 3 storage box projects contain (0-4) prescription project, its each corresponding STEP7-guide's Micro/WIN configuration. The prescription that provides on the MC as order is listed in respectively take the prescription number disposes. Notice and can or create prescription configuration with prescription guide or with 200 guides of TD among the STEP7-Micro/WIN.

' icon ' that the prescription project shows is the employed same icon of prescription guide among the STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Prescription project ' name ' is that user assignment is to the name of guide configuration among the STEP7-Micro/WIN. Append in the bracket on this name be the prescription number, its form is " (RCP x) ", " x " is 0 to 4 here.

' size ' of prescription project is the total quantity that prescription takies the storage box space.

' modification ' time of prescription project is the final time in the guide configuration of STEP7-Micro/WIN inediting. Notice that this does not represent download time.

' establishment ' time of prescription project is the time when creating the guide configuration in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

The prescription project is not supported additional function and can not be launched or open. The context menu that provides for the prescription project contains " attribute " option. Double-click the left mouse button of prescription project and also can start properties dialog.

Properties dialog

When the user selects " attribute " from the context menu of prescription project, can show the properties dialog of Figure 19.

This properties dialog possesses following feature:

Dialog box ' title ' is that prescription project name adds " attribute ".

The top area of dialog box can repeat the project name of writing out a prescription, and shows the icon that is used for STEP7-Micro/WIN prescription guide.

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

' data group ' field shows the quantity of the prescription data group relevant with the prescription configuration.

' establishment ' field can be the creation-time of prescription configuration. This date and time can be identical with the timestamp form in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

' modification ' field is the modification time of prescription configuration. This date and time can be identical with the timestamp form in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

The data record project

Gen 3 storage box projects contain (0-4) data record project, its each corresponding STEP7-Micro/WIN data record guide configuration. The data record that provides on the MC as order is listed in respectively take its data record number disposes.

' icon ' that the data record project shows is the employed same icon of data record guide among the STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Data record project ' name ' is that user assignment is to the name of data record guide configuration among the STEP7-Micro/WIN. What append to this name in the bracket is the data record number, and its form is " (DAT x) ", and " x " is 0 to 4 here.

' size ' of data record project is the total quantity that data record takies the storage box space.

' modification ' time of data record project is the final time in the data record guide configuration of STEP7-Micro/WIN inediting. Notice that this does not represent download time.

' establishment ' time of data record project is the time when creating the configuration of data record guide in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

Context menu

Content below the data record project hereinafter shows in the menu thereon:

Upload---this menu option allows the user to upload this project recorded data from storage box. The below will discuss in more detail. Has identical effect with left mouse button double-click project.

Open the file of uploading---this menu option repeats shown selection. Its expression can be opened the csv file of uploading with the csv file editing machine (being generally Excel) of current record when the user uploads from name space when examination. If do not check, still can upload ' data record ' but needn't open editing machine. If with shortcut operation, so because the user may be absent from the scene, not impact and can not open the CSV editing machine of this selection, but the mistake that will receive is not demonstration but writes csv file (﹠ ' uploads automatically referring to ' shortcut ' ').

Creating shortcut---this menu option can be uploaded ' data record ' and create shortcut and be placed on user's desktop.

Attribute---this menu option can be to ' data record ' project display properties dialog box, as discussed below.

Data record shortcut ﹠ uploads automatically

The user can affect ' scheduler program ' supplied with together with Windows and carry out automatically uploading of arbitrary or whole ' data record '. When ' removing is uploaded ' that in guide, arrange when using, it becomes powerful Data Collection feature, this feature-modeling by auto-programming for example the csv file that can read of Excel or Access follow the tracks of the user to be important project, for example to sell and bill. Scheduler program is set the user until operation, and restart computer and do not enter, and ' scheduler program ' automatically opened and entered the user with ' being scheduled to ' account.

For creating preplanned mission, the user finishes following step usually:

1) ' data record ' uploaded with the regular interval created shortcut.

2) drag and drop of ' data record ' shortcut are advanced in ' preplanned mission ' file that is defined as sub-folder in ' window explorer ' under ' control panel '.

3) double-click shortcut and setting will be carried out time and the frequency of uploading.

4) setting wherein will move registration and the password (if making the machine networking) of the user account of preplanned mission.

Figure 20 represents the result of ' step 2 '.

Figure 21 represents Windows XP dialog box, and it allows user to arrange to begin and Close Date and the frequency of carrying out preplanned mission. This is ' step 3 '.

Figure 22 represents Windows XP dialog box, and it allows the user to arrange when and how long to carry out once this task (' data record ' uploaded).

Figure 23 represents Windows XP dialog box, and it allows the user that the username and password of operation usefulness is set. This is ' step 4 ', and it is usually only just necessary when the user is provided with user's login account on the machine of linking network.

Arrange when correct in ' preplanned mission ', even the user has been in the process of machine or no matter whether the user has restarted machine automatically moves so, still can have the unlatching ' S7-200 explorer ' of record and upload at set intervals ' data record '. The CSV file of uploading can be sent to following path: C: program Files Siemens Microsystems Data Logs.

Csv file possesses following naming convention:

" (PLC_ address)-user _ determine _ data _ record _ name _ date _ time .CSV

((PLC_ADDRESS)-USER_DEFINED_DATA_LOG_NAME- DATE-TIME.CSV)”。

Note because usually do not allow colon ": " and oblique line "/" so its from date and time, to remove in the Windows file name.

The example shown data record of Figure 24, its be configured to from April 17 5:00 to April 18 end of day per hour on schedule operation once. Can read these files or read Excel, the Access of csv file or the automated manner of other database reads these files with use by double-clicking these files.

Properties dialog

When the user selects " attribute " from the context menu of data record project, can show the properties dialog of Figure 25, this attribute possesses following feature:

' title ' of dialog box is that the data record name adds " attribute ".

But the top area repeating data record entry name of dialog box, and show the icon that is used for STEP7-Micro/WIN data record guide.

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

' record ' field show with storage box in data record dispose the relevant data record quantity that deposits in.

' timestamp ' field is designated as ' being ' or ' non-'. This is the option that the user had before arranged in the data record guide in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

' dater ' field is designated as ' being ' or ' non-'. This is the option that the user had before arranged in the data record guide in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

' removing is uploaded ' field is designated as ' being ' or ' non-'. This is the option that the user had before arranged in the data record guide in STEP7-Micro/WIN.

' establishment ' field can be the creation-time of data record configuration. This date and time can be identical with the timestamp form in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

' ' field is the modification time of data record configuration in modification. This date and time can be identical with the timestamp form in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

The data record shortcut

' data record ' possesses the shortcut project that creates on the table. The user can move on to shortcut the position wanted and originally transfer shortcut from the Windows file, it is dragged to ' preplanned mission ' file with at set intervals operation, perhaps uses explorer to double-click it. Carry out that shortcut (how no matter making) attempts to upload ' data record ' and it is outputed in the .CSV file in ' data record ' file. Think to carry out from shortcut and be incoherent and user error needn't be shown but mistake can be write the .CSV file.

Upload the data that deposited in

Select " uploading ", double-click ' S7-200 explorer ' the data record project or double-click/move ' data record ' shortcut so that can upload the data record that has deposited in and be converted into ' comma separates numerical value ' (CSV) form from context menu. Can use the naming convention of PLC address in the bracket will deposit in data storing C: program Files Siemens Microsystems (no matter PPI address or ethernet address back are hyphens in the Data Logs file, the back is that the user determines that guide is that another hyphen back is the DATE that the current language setting value of being shared by Microwin in the current culture of Windows arranges behind the name, and the back is that the hyphen back is that TIME back in the Windows culture is .CSV (' comma separates numerical value ') expansion). Note because do not use oblique line ("/") and colon (": ") therefore can replace with its removal and with hyphen in the Windows file designation agreement.

The user can select to open the file of uploading. The behavior is implied interactive operation, therefore even mean that the user double-clicks shortcut, its also be only suitable in from ' S7-200 explorer ' itself and do not click or double-click right mouse button from any shortcut. This is whether to start upload operation from shortcut because the S7-200 explorer can detect, and can not determine whether to start upload operation from the automation task of for example ' preplanned mission ' execution or from autoexec or VB/Java file originally.

The user can select " opening file upload " option from upper right hereinafter option. If (selecting it repeatedly to check) this project of inspection and user upload from ' S7200 explorer ' direct (not from shortcut), the name space explorer can check whether there is the csv file contact so. If the application program relevant with " .csv " can not show this true information of expression to the user so, but arrives as mentioned above ' data record ' file with uploading of csv file execution.

Docuterm

Gen 3 memory pack projects comprise any amount of docuterm, and it only is subjected to can utilize on the box restriction in space. Can alphabetically be listed in respectively upper each docuterm that occurs of MC:

' icon ' that docuterm shows is the registration icon of using together for operating system file type (expansion). Notice that this point changes along with user's difference.

' name ' of docuterm is the expansion of file name add file. Note usually can showing together these. The Windows setting value of " on the expansion of known file type hiding " not necessarily shows impact to this.

' size ' of docuterm is the size of compressed file. Note this may with the varying in size of actual file.

' modification ' time of docuterm is the modification time of file. Note this not representation file be placed on time on the storage box.

' establishment ' time of docuterm is the creation-time of file. Note this not representation file be placed on time on the storage box.

Context menu

Content below docuterm can be thereon hereinafter shows in the menu:

Paste---usually only when existing file, Windows  clipbook activates this menu option. This option is write the file on the clipbook on the MC. The user also can use the Ctrl+V key combination when docuterm has the focus that realizes this function.

Deletion---remove file from storage box. Because this is destructive action and does not usually accomplish, therefore require the user to confirm this option. The user also can use the DEL key when docuterm has the focus that realizes this function.

The properties dialog of attribute---display file.

Drag and drop are supported

Name space can use Gen 3 storage box project support drag and drop files. The user can drag file and puts it to the catalogue on its hard drive or be put on the desktop from Gen 3 storage box projects. Equally, file is put into makes it be stored into (if available space is arranged) in the storage box on Gen 3 storage boxes. Docuterm is unique project of supporting drag and drop in ' my S7-200 network ' name space. Name space can be supported " dragging-copy " operation, and the project that wherein drags forms and copies. Name space is not necessarily supported " dragging ", and the project that wherein drags is removed it from the home position.

Possesses the duplication of name docuterm

When the user attempted to be placed on the backup file project on Gen 3 storage boxes, this operation can cover existing docuterm. Because this is destructive action and does not usually accomplish, therefore require the user to confirm this operation. This point is applicable to stickup project and " placement " project on Gen 3 storage boxes.

Properties dialog

When the user selects " attribute " item from the docuterm context menu, show the properties dialog of Figure 26. This dialog box can be after ' file attribute ' dialog box be provided with Windows modelling. This properties dialog possesses following feature:

Dialog box topic is that the docuterm name adds " attribute ".

But the top area duplicate file project name of dialog box, and show the icon of registering with the type file (being determined by file extension) operating system. Notice that this icon is different between custom system.

The register-file type of ' file type ' field display file project. This character string is from record, and is different between custom system.

' opening ' field can show the application program (containing icon) that given file type is recorded. In addition, this application program is from record, and it may be different between each custom system.

' size ' field shows the actual file size. Note this and varying in size that docuterm in storage box shows.

' compression sizes ' field shows the size of literal item on the storage box. Compressible docuterm is to save the space on the storage box. This size and the demonstration in ' explorer ' view of docuterm are complementary. The percentage that illustrates is with the percentage of compressing file to the original document size. If compression can not be saved at least one byte, file can unpressed preservation and compression sizes also represents not compression of file so.

' establishment ' field can be the creation-time of file. This date and time can be identical with the timestamp form in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

' modification ' field is the modification time of file. This date and time can be identical with the timestamp form in the Windows file attribute page or leaf.

The Folders view option

Windows supports the different views of project in the name space. View option below ' my S7-200 network ' name space is supported:

Large icons---name space project shows 32 * 32 icons. The label of PLC project is the network address of PLC. All other name spaces can be shown as label with its name.

Small icon---name space project can project show 16 * 16 icons. This project can show and the identical label of ' large icons ' option.

Tabulation---can be in vertical tabulate the display name space item. The PLC project shows its 16 * 16 icon and network address. All other projects can show its 16 * 16 icon and name.

Illustrating---screenshot captures all in the document has been described " explanation " view. The part of every kind of name space project is recorded in the information that shows in " explanation " view.

Classification

Windows provides the classification of each hurdle information in " explanation " view usually. Classification can represent the ascending order sort file with all " piece " beginnings, and the back is that all ' prescriptions ', back are that all ' data record ', back are user files. Can alphabet sequence to these file subseries. Clicking column headings can be classified by this hurdle. Again click and to carry out sort in descending order.

Refresh the name space content

Refresh name space so that communication operation and definite Web content. Notice that refreshing at any time name space can change its content, so that the item as invalid of current selection. When this situation of generation, current selection is returned to the name space project. Refresh name space and also may produce mistake. When refreshing name space and run into mistake, can remove all projects, show error message (following discussion), select then to be returned to the name space project.

Some behavior in the name space view be so that can see additional information, but not necessarily refreshes view. For example, if the user has refreshed view (about the collected information of all operational outfits on the network), it is collapsible/and expand tree-like project (by clicking "+" relevant with icon or "-" designator) and do not cause another time to refresh. Simply information extraction of the behavior is not again to collect. Generally speaking, name space can be followed the standard that is arranged by " my computer " name space, its with when refresh relevant with simple extraction data.

Error handling processing

No matter when carry out user's request and the time make a mistake, can use specific error message and fetch the demonstration error box to the chain of possible solution. The title of error box comprises current communication interface. Close key appears in the dialog box always. Other key of dialog box is visible or invisible, decides on particular error and the current communications setting of user. The screenshot capture of Figure 27 represents all visible error box examples of all keys.

' PG/PC interface ' ... key when wrong with communicate by letter when relevant as seen.

' modem installation ' ... key when wrong with communicate by letter when relevant as seen and user selection modem communication.

' close key ' may be as seen always.

Possible erroneous condition

Any garble that may occur in STEP7-Micro/WIN also may occur in ' S7-200 explorer '. The coupling that these wrong texts that show and STEP7-Micro/WIN show.

It is also possible that Gen 3 storage boxes operate distinctive mistake. The GPB that operates the additional error information that may occur referring to GPB illustrates that for example the operating space is not enough.

When creating desktop shortcuts to name space project (PLC or Gen 3 storage boxes), the user may produce particular error. When the user selection shortcut, this project no longer occurs at network. Under this situation, show specific error message.

Desktop shortcuts

' S7-200 explorer ' is installed desktop shortcuts placed ' my S7-200 network ' name space, as previously described. The user also can select directly to create desktop shortcuts in ' PLC ' project, ' data record ' project and ' Gen 3 storage boxes ' project. When the user created desktop shortcuts, the icon of shortcut and the project icon in the name space were complementary. The text of shortcut also with name space in the text matches of project.

When one of them of these desktop shortcuts of user selection, the name space project of shortcut representative can be started in its ' explorer ' view. If " opening " context menu options of project in the whole name space views of user selection, upload but do not open ' data record ' of ' explorer ' except ' data record ' occurring, the demonstration that obtains so is identical with the demonstration that will produce.

No matter when start the desktop shortcuts to the name space project, can encourage communication to come " refreshing " S7-200 network. No longer appear in the network if can not set up the project of communication or shortcut representative, then can produce mistake. Under these two kinds of situations, all can produce error box, it has the distinctive information of erroneous condition. More information sees also error handling processing one joint.

Note when the user removes ' S7-200 explorer ' from its machine by unloading, usually only removing those desktop shortcuts that provide being installed. Needn't remove any desktop shortcuts that the user creates. These shortcuts probably no longer work, and can determine to attempt to start the mistake that shortcut produces by Windows.

My multiple example of S7-200 network

Because " my S7-200 network " name space is combined with window explorer, when the user starts the example of ' window explorer ' at any time, also can start the name space example. ' my S7-200 network ' multiple example can be showed the communication behavior identical with two examples of STEP7-Micro/WIN/restriction, and can break away from by the employed process server addressing of microsoft system program.

GPB

GPB refers to contain " generic block " of compressing user file (if any) in the zone 1 in the storage box directory information and regional 3. If can utilize, ' S7-200 explorer ' comes the content of quick poll storage box with the IGPB200 interface. If can not utilize, it chooses single and upload title to determine size usually. In a word ' S7-200 explorer ' usually all in the same manner operations when having and do not have GPB. Can DocumentCtrl S7-200 Programming Tools Engineering Documents Theories of Operation find the design details of GPB and IGPB200 among the document VOB under the General Purpose.doc.

Users' guidebook

Browse the S7-200 network

' S7-200 explorer ' and ' Microsoft's window explorer ' combination is to allow to browse PPI or ethernet network. After ' S7-200 explorer ' application program is installed, in ' window explorer ' that be called " my S7-200 network ", produce new node. If STEP7-Micro/WIN 4.0 versions have been installed on computers, need not further install with regard to possessing ' S7-200 explorer ' application program so.

Browse the PPI network

Double-click node " my S7-200 network ", ' window explorer ' can browse the PPI network of expression optional equipment tabulation. Can choose all possible network address for optional equipment. When finding equipment, can identify and show this equipment, as shown in figure 28. Distributing to the network address of each equipment enumerates in bracket.

Prompting: if connect devices to the PPI network or from the removal of PPI network, then come refresh list with the F5 key at any time.

Prompting: the function of not all PLCs and storage box support ' S7-200 explorer '. Please refer to ' S7-200 system handbook ' to obtain the complete list of hardware characteristics and option.

Browse ethernet network

Double-click node " my S7-200 network ", ' window explorer ' can illustrate pre-configured IP address list and the state of optional equipment. In ethernet network, usually configuration rather than automatically definite IP address. Be configuration of IP address, use ' IP address browser ' application program. Can come this application program of access by the corresponding right mouse menu item that uses node " my S7-200 network ", as shown in figure 29.

Attention: please refer to the more information of STEP7-Micro/WIN help system to use ' S7-200 Ethernet ' and ' internet ' module to obtain to install the industry ethernet network.

Communications setting

' S7-200 explorer ' messaging parameter below the STEP7-Micro/WIN programming software is shared:

Entrance (example Micro/WIN-＞PC/PPI cable)

The local address

Traffic rate (baud rate)

Port

Other network parameter

' the PG/PC interface is set ' application program is used in for a change communications setting. Can come this application program of access by the corresponding right mouse menu item that uses node " my S7-200 network ".

Attention: please refer to the STEP7-Micro/WIN help system to obtain to install the more information of PPI or industry ethernet network.

Use modem

Use modem to connect if communications setting can be set as, can connect browsing ' S7-200 network ' front modem of setting up so. For connecting, use ' connection modem ' application program. Can come this application program of access by the corresponding right mouse menu item that uses node " my S7-200 network ", as shown in figure 30.

After setting up the modem connection, can browse ' S7-200 network '. Double-click node " my S7-200 network ", ' window explorer ' can illustrate the tabulation of optional equipment. Can choose all possible network address for optional equipment. When finding equipment, can identify and show this equipment. Distributing to the network address of each equipment enumerates in bracket.

Remembering and disconnecting! When using ' S7-200 explorer ' complete operation, manually disconnection connects to stop modem. Close ' window explorer ' and not necessarily disconnect modem. For disconnecting, use the corresponding right mouse menu item of node " my S7-200 network ", as shown in figure 31.

Browse S7-200PLC

Double-click the content that any S7-200PLC browses PLC. Content below PLC can contain arbitrarily:

Program block (project)

Data block (project)

System block (project)

Storage box (file)

In ' window explorer ' the inside, in left lattice, usually only listed file. Storage box contains addition item, thereby it can be file. Because storage box may be unique file, can only list storage box at Zuo Gezhong.

File and project all can be listed in the lattice of ' window explorer ' ' right side ', shown in figure 32.

Browse storage box

Double-click ' storage box ' and browse the content of storage box. Content below ' storage box ' can contain arbitrarily:

Program block (project)

Data block (project)

System block (project)

Prescription configuration (until 4 projects)

Data record (until 4 projects)

User file (project)

Common files listed presss from both sides in ' left side ' lattice in ' window explorer ' the inside. Usually do not have file in the storage box, therefore can list the project above all in the lattice of ' window explorer ' ' right side ', as shown in figure 33.

The retrieved data record value

For ' data record ' value of retrieve stored box, double-click ' data record ' node. Can upload these data and it is formatted as .csv file (comma separates the value file) from storage box. Then open file with the application program that has been associated with the .csv file extent. Usually this application program is the Excel of Microsoft.

Attention: before uploading ' data record ' value, the application program related with the .csv file extent must be arranged.

Attention: remove ' data record ' value of uploading if the guide option is set, must guarantee to have preserved data. Use the relevant Excel of application program Microsoft, and data are saved in catalogue and the filename that you are familiar with.

Screen image shown in Figure 34 is ' data record ' value example that uploads to Excel. After double-clicking ' data record ' node of ' window explorer ', numerical value can be uploaded in Excel and opened.

Prompting: catalogue and the filename that ' preservation ' function is familiar with data are saved in you carried out in suggestion immediately.

Increase user file

Can store STEP7-Micro/WIN item file or other file of wishing preservation with the free space of storage box. When using ' S7-200 explorer ' when these files are dragged and dropped into the storage box node, compress these files. Needn't use independently compression applications program such as WinZip. If compressed file then no longer carries out the compression second time usually. Can utilize right mouse menu item " attribute " to check any file attribute that is put on the storage box.

For increasing file at storage box, only need file is dragged and dropped on the storage box file. Also can use right mouse menu item to copy and paste.

The storage box attribute

Right mouse menu item ' attribute ' shows screen as shown in figure 35. Can use this screen to be summarised in fast free space that used in the storage box and available.

Remove storage box

Right mouse menu item ' removing ' on ' storage box ' node allows to wipe all items.

To those skilled in the art, after the foregoing detailed description of having read some exemplary embodiment and accompanying drawing, other embodiments of the invention will become apparent. Be to be understood that and carry out multiple variation, change and additional embodiment that therefore, all these variations, change and additional embodiment will be considered to be within the application's the design and scope. For example, the content of the application's any part (for example title, field, background, general introduction, summary, accompanying drawing etc.) no matter, unless for example clearly be appointed as on the contrary by clearly defining, all do not require included content in any claim here, perhaps the activity of any special description or explanation or element require the included content of any application of priority to it, or the included content of any specific phase mutual relation of these movable particular order or these elements. And, can repeat any activity, can carry out any activity by multiple entities, and/or copy any element. In addition, can get rid of any activity or element, change activity command, and/or change the element correlation. Therefore, think that explanation and accompanying drawing are in fact descriptive rather than restrictive. And, unless outside the otherwise clear expression of any numeral of here describing or scope, this numeral or scope are similar to. Unless outside the otherwise clear expression of any scope of here describing, this scope comprises all numerical value and all sub-ranges wherein. Information in any material that here is incorporated herein by reference (for example United States Patent (USP), U.S. Patent application, bibliography, article etc.), only be incorporated herein by reference in following scope, that is: do not conflict between these information and other statement as described herein and the accompanying drawing. In the situation that such conflict occurs, comprising making any claim here or requiring its priority and cause invalid conflict, the conflicting information that exists in the material that is introduced into as a reference so will not be incorporated herein clearly as a reference.

Claims (61)

1. method comprises:

By the PLC network interface:

The PLC network is presented to this non-PLC information equipment as the name space shell extension of the operating system of moving of non-PLC information equipment; And

This PLC network is explained user to non-PLC information equipment as the node of the network that is connected with this non-PLC information equipment.

2. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

Manage described PLC network interface.

3. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the address of the described PLC network of poll is with the device of identification with this PLC network connection.

4. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, provide messaging parameter to the information equipment with this PLC network connection.

5. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, described non-PLC information equipment is connected to information equipment with described PLC network connection communicatedly.

6. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, provide the PLC network address to each equipment with described PLC network connection.

7. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, allow to browse described PLC network.

8. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, provide being stored in the access of the information in the described PLC network.

9. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, described non-PLC information equipment and and the information equipment of described PLC network connection between transmission information.

10. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, provide the Multi-instance of described PLC network.

11. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as file.

12. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the file that described PLC network is comprised project as the information equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained the user to described non-PLC information equipment.

13. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the file that described PLC network is comprised project as the information equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained the user to described non-PLC information equipment, and described project is according to the PLC network address sort.

14. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the file that described PLC network is comprised project as the information equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained the user to described non-PLC information equipment, described project is according to the PLC network address sort, and each PLC network address is the Process FieldbusROFIBUS address.

15. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the file that described PLC network is comprised project as the equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained the user to described non-PLC information equipment, described project is according to the PLC network address sort, and each PLC network address is the PPI address.

16. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the file that described PLC network is comprised project as the equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained the user to described non-PLC information equipment, described project is according to the PLC network address sort, and each PLC network address is ethernet address.

17. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

18. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the memory devices that will connect with the PLC of described PLC network is as explaining user to described non-PLC information equipment with the related icon of amount.

19. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the memory device that will be connected with the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

20. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the program that is stored on the memory device that is connected with the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

21. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, the file that is stored on the memory device that is connected with the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

22. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, will comprise following at least two hierarchy and explain user to described non-PLC information equipment: a plurality of PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with one of these a plurality of PLC and be stored in a plurality of files on this memory device.

23. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, will comprise following at least two hierarchy and explain user to described non-PLC information equipment: a plurality of PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with one of these a plurality of PLC and be stored in a plurality of files on this memory device.

24. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, will comprise following at least two hierarchy and explain user to described non-PLC information equipment: the PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with this PLC and be stored in file on this memory device.

25. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, will comprise following at least two hierarchy and explain user to described non-PLC information equipment: the PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with this PLC, be stored in the piece project on this memory device and be stored in file on this memory device.

26. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, receive order with the file of managed storage on the memory device that the PLC with this PLC network is connected at the PLC of described PLC network.

27. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, to the response of the user of described non-PLC information equipment statement to the order that is used for the file of managed storage on the memory device that the PLC with this PLC network is connected.

28. method according to claim 1 also comprises:

By described PLC network interface, to the graphic response of the user of described non-PLC information equipment statement to the order that is used for the file of managed storage on the memory device that the PLC with this PLC network is connected.

29. method according to claim 1, the operating system of moving of wherein said non-PLC information equipment is PC operating system.

30. method according to claim 1, the operating system of moving of wherein said non-PLC information equipment is the member of Windows operating system family.

31. many computer-readable media that are used for the instruction of act of execution of a storage, the behavior comprises:

By the PLC network interface:

The PLC network is presented to this non-PLC information equipment as the name space shell extension of the operating system of moving of non-PLC information equipment; And

This PLC network is presented to the user of non-PLC information equipment as the node of the network that is connected with this non-PLC information equipment.

32. a system comprises:

The PLC network communication interface is used for the PLC network is explained to this non-PLC information equipment as the name space shell extension of the operating system of moving of non-PLC information equipment; And

The PLC network user interface is used for this PLC network is presented to the user of non-PLC information equipment as the node of the network that is connected with this non-PLC information equipment.

33. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for the address of the described PLC network of poll with the device of identification with this PLC network connection.

34. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for providing messaging parameter to the information equipment with this PLC network connection.

35. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for described non-PLC information equipment is connected to information equipment with described PLC network connection communicatedly.

36. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for providing the PLC network address to each device with described PLC network connection.

37. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for allowing to browse described PLC network.

38. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for providing the access to the information that is stored in described PLC network.

39. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface be used for described non-PLC information equipment and and the information equipment of described PLC network connection between transmission information.

40. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for providing the Multi-instance of described PLC network.

41. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as file.

42. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the file that described PLC network comprises project as the information equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment.

43. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the file that described PLC network comprises project as the information equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment, and described project is according to the PLC network address sort.

44. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the file that described PLC network comprises project as the information equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment, described project is according to the PLC network address sort, and each PLC network address is the Process FieldbusROFIBUS address.

45. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the file that described PLC network comprises project as the device to each and PLC network connection is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment, described project is according to the PLC network address sort, and each PLC network address is the PPI address.

46. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the file that described PLC network comprises project as the equipment to each and PLC network connection is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment, described project is according to the PLC network address sort, and each PLC network address is ethernet address.

47. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

48. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the memory device that will connect with the PLC of described PLC network as explaining user to described non-PLC information equipment with the related icon of amount.

49. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for the memory device that will be connected with the PLC of described PLC network and explains user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

50. system according to claim 32, wherein:

The program that described PLC network user interface is used for being stored on the memory device that is connected with the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

51. system according to claim 32, wherein:

The file that described PLC network user interface is used for being stored on the memory device that is connected with the PLC of described PLC network is explained user to described non-PLC information equipment as portfolio item.

52. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for comprising following at least two hierarchy and explains user to described non-PLC information equipment: a plurality of PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with one of these a plurality of PLC and be stored in a plurality of files on this memory device.

53. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for comprising following at least two hierarchy and explains user to described non-PLC information equipment: a plurality of PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with one of these a plurality of PLC and be stored in a plurality of files on this memory device.

54. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for comprising following at least two hierarchy and explains user to described non-PLC information equipment: the PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with this PLC and be stored in file on this memory device.

55. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for comprising following at least two path and explains user to described non-PLC information equipment: the PLC of PLC network, this PLC network, the memory device that is connected with this PLC, be stored in the piece project on this memory device and be stored in file on this memory device.

56. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network communication interface is used for providing order with the file of managed storage on the memory device that the PLC with this PLC network is connected at the PLC of described PLC network.

57. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for to user's statement of described non-PLC information equipment response to the order that is used for the file of managed storage on the memory device that the PLC with this PLC network is connected.

58. system according to claim 32, wherein:

Described PLC network user interface is used for to user's statement of described non-PLC information equipment graphic response to the order that is used for the file of managed storage on the memory device that the PLC with this PLC network is connected.

59. system according to claim 32, the operating system of moving of wherein said non-PLC information equipment is PC operating system.

60. system according to claim 32, the operating system of moving of wherein said non-PLC information equipment is the member of Windows operating system family.

61. a system comprises:

Non-PLC information equipment;

The PLC network communication interface is used for the PLC network is presented to this non-PLC information equipment as the name space shell extension of the operating system of non-PLC information equipment; And

The PLC network user interface is used for this PLC network is explained user to non-PLC information equipment as the node of the network that is connected with this non-PLC information equipment.

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