Simulating inputs

[rbergam]

Hello all.

I'm in the process of programming a machine using an Automation Direct 260 PLC here in Washington State for a machine that I've never seen that's being built in Kansas. What I'm going to try to do is to simulate the machine and troubleshoot the program by creating a temporary screen and ladder logic section that can force wired "X" inputs on and off so I don't have to either jumper the inputs physically or in the program (I'll have the electrical panel and C-More touchscreen tomorrow - for one whole day). Is this possible? From what I can see the C-More program allows me to enter discrete "X" memory types on pushbuttons and the program is allowing me to enter "X" type coils, so it looks like it should work but I still wonder if it will.

So I guess what I'm asking is whether or not I'm wasting my time.

Thanks.

[franji1]

As long as you have no Input modules in your local test PLC system, otherwise its states would overwrite yours.

[rbergam]

First off, thanks for the reply, I appreciate it.

So now I'm wondering if I'll be able to simply unplug the input card or does the PLC need to see something in every slot. The way it sits now is: input, output, analog in, analog out.

Thanks again.

[franji1]

You should just be able to pull out the Input card.  Since you have no "combo" modules, and I hope you are using the POINTER METHOD for analog I/O updates, then just pulling the Input card should work.

Don't forget to turn off power before removing/inserting any modules!   

fyi... ADC sells an 8 input simulator module for the 205.

[rbergam]

and I hope you are using the POINTER METHOD for analog I/O updates


Well, I'm trying out these newfangled ANLGIN and ANLGOUT boxes for the first time. This is the first DirectSOFT program I've written in a long time and the first one using DirectSOFT 5... I like it! 

Thanks again for the help.

[franji1]

and the first one using DirectSOFT 5... I like it! 

Thanks!  Lots of cool stuff in Rel 5 - check out the MATHBIN, MATHBCD, MATHR IBoxes!

Here's a 3rd party review http://www.plcdev.com/review_of_automationdirects_directsoft5_programming_software