PowerPLC-Bridge Manual

PowerPLC-Bridge Manual V7.
PowerPLC-Bridge
IEC-1131-3
SoftPLC & SoftMotion
USER’S MANUAL
Version: 7.2
© CJB 2011
PowerPLC-Bridge Manual V7.2
PowerPLC-Bridge
1 ................................................... Introduction ................................................................ 1-1
1.1 ........................................... What is PowerPLC-Bridge? ....................................... 1-1
1.2 ........................................... System architecture ................................................... 1-2
1.3 ........................................... System requirements ................................................. 1-3
1.3.1 .................................... Requirements of the programming console ............... 1-3
1.3.2 .................................... Requirements for the real time PC-based motion
controller ............................................................. 1-3
1.4 ........................................... Installation .................................................................. 1-3
1.5 ........................................... Execution ................................................................... 1-3
1.6 ........................................... Uninstalling ................................................................ 1-4
1.7 ........................................... Navigation .................................................................. 1-4
1.7.1 .................................... Use of the mouse ....................................................... 1-4
1.7.2 .................................... Use of the keyboard ................................................... 1-4
1.8 ............................................ How to open the user guide ....................................... 1-5
1.8.1 .................................... The on-line user guide ............................................... 1-5
1.8.2 .................................... The README.TXT file ............................................... 1-5
2 ................................................... Programming environment ......................................... 2-1
2.1 ........................................... The programming interface ........................................ 2-3
2.1.1 .................................... The menu bar............................................................. 2-4
2.1.1.1 ............................ Shortcuts table ........................................................... 2-6
2.1.1.2 ............................ File - New - Project ................................................... 2-7
2.1.1.3 ............................ File - Open ................................................................. 2-7
2.1.1.4 ............................ File - Open Project ..................................................... 2-8
2.1.1.5 ............................ File - Reopen ............................................................. 2-8
2.1.1.6 ............................ File - Save .................................................................. 2-8
2.1.1.7 ............................ File – Save as ............................................................ 2-8
2.1.1.8 ............................ File - Save Project As ................................................ 2-8
2.1.1.9 ............................ File - Save All ............................................................. 2-8
2.1.1.10 .......................... File - Close ................................................................. 2-9
2.1.1.11 .......................... File - Close All ............................................................ 2-9
2.1.1.12 .......................... File - Save Project on Target ..................................... 2-9
2.1.1.13 .......................... File - Load Project from Target .................................. 2-9
2.1.1.14 .......................... File - Project Maintenance - Check Current Object
Consistency ..................................................... 2-9
2.1.1.15 .......................... File - Project Maintenance - Compare Binary Files With
Current Target Image....................................... 2-9
2.1.1.16 .......................... File - Print Setup - Printer Setup ................................ 2-9
2.1.1.17 .......................... File - Print Setup - Page Setup ................................ 2-10
2.1.1.18 .......................... File - Print Project .................................................... 2-10
2.1.1.19 .......................... File - Exit .................................................................. 2-10
2.1.1.20 .......................... Edit - Undo .............................................................. 2-10
2.1.1.21 .......................... Edit - Cut ................................................................. 2-10
2.1.1.22 .......................... Edit - Copy .............................................................. 2-10
i
2.1.1.23 .......................... Edit - Paste ............................................................. 2-10

2.1.1.24 .......................... Edit - Delete............................................................ 2-11
2.1.1.25 .......................... Edit - Select All ....................................................... 2-11
2.1.1.26 .......................... Edit - UnSelect All .................................................. 2-11
2.1.1.27 .......................... Search - Find ........................................................... 2-11
2.1.1.28 .......................... Search - Find In Files .............................................. 2-12
2.1.1.29 .......................... Search - Replace .................................................... 2-12
2.1.1.30 .......................... Search - Search Again ............................................ 2-13
2.1.1.31 .......................... View - Project Manager .......................................... 2-13
2.1.1.32 .......................... View - Program Monitor .......................................... 2-13
2.1.1.33 .......................... View - Cross Reference........................................... 2-14
2.1.1.33.1................... Set Filter .................................................................. 2-15
2.1.1.34 .......................... View - Zoom In ........................................................ 2-15
2.1.1.35 .......................... View - Zoom Out ..................................................... 2-15
2.1.1.36 .......................... View - Actual Size ................................................... 2-15
2.1.1.37 .......................... View - Execution Order........................................... 2-16
2.1.1.38 .......................... Project - Compile Unit.............................................. 2-16
2.1.1.39 .......................... Project - Make ......................................................... 2-16
2.1.1.40 .......................... Project - Build .......................................................... 2-16
2.1.1.41 .......................... Project - Options...................................................... 2-16
2.1.1.41.1................... Project - Options - Find PowerPLC Bridge Server... 2-20
2.1.1.42 .......................... Debug - Download Program .................................... 2-20
2.1.1.43 .......................... Debug – Special Downloads - All Object ................. 2-21
2.1.1.44 .......................... Debug – Special Downloads - On Line Changes .... 2-22
2.1.1.45 .......................... Debug - Attach To Program..................................... 2-22
2.1.1.46 .......................... Debug – Hardware Configuration Diagnostic .......... 2-22
2.1.1.47 .......................... Debug - Clear Program ........................................... 2-22
2.1.1.48 .......................... Debug – Reopen Current Servers Configuration ..... 2-22
2.1.1.49 .......................... Debug - Run ............................................................ 2-23
2.1.1.50 .......................... Debug - Stop ........................................................... 2-23
2.1.1.51 .......................... Debug - Restore Connection / Close Connection .... 2-23
2.1.1.52 .......................... Tools – Logon.......................................................... 2-23
2.1.1.53 .......................... Tools – Set Language Using this menu entry you can
set the language for the application program or
for the developement system. ....................... 2-24
2.1.1.54 .......................... Debug – Synchronize Date & Time ......................... 2-24
2.1.1.55 .......................... Tools – Data Logger ................................................ 2-24
2.1.1.56 .......................... Tools - Remote System Autostartup Breaker .......... 2-25
2.1.1.57 .......................... Window - Edit Windows ........................................... 2-26
2.1.1.58 .......................... Window - Edit Windows - Tile .................................. 2-26
2.1.1.59 .......................... Window - Edit Windows - Cascade ......................... 2-26
2.1.1.60 .......................... Window - Edit Windows - Arrange Icons ................. 2-26
2.1.1.61 .......................... Help – Help language .............................................. 2-26
2.1.1.62 .......................... Help - Master Help .................................................. 2-26
2.1.1.63 .......................... Help - PowerPLC Bridge Help ................................. 2-26
2.1.1.64 .......................... Help - IEC 1131-3 Help ........................................... 2-26
ii
2.1.1.65 .......................... Help - Quick Start Help ............................................ 2-27

2.1.1.66 .......................... Help - Editor - ASCII Key Mapping........................... 2-27
2.1.1.67 .......................... Help - Editor - GRAPH Key Mapping ....................... 2-27
2.1.1.68 .......................... Help - About ............................................................. 2-27
2.1.2 .................................... Tool bar .................................................................... 2-28
2.1.2.1 ............................ Inspect ..................................................................... 2-32
2.1.2.2 ............................ Evaluate / Modify ..................................................... 2-32
2.1.2.3 ............................ Call Stack ................................................................. 2-33
2.1.2.4 ............................ Select a variable ...................................................... 2-33
2.1.2.5 ............................ Global Variables Supervision ................................... 2-33
2.1.3 .................................... Project Manager....................................................... 2-34
2.1.4 .................................... Editor frame ............................................................. 2-35
2.1.4.1 ............................ Text Editor................................................................ 2-36
2.1.4.2 ............................ Text editor in debug mode ....................................... 2-37
2.1.4.3 ............................ Graphical editor........................................................ 2-39
2.1.4.4 ............................ Graphical Editor in debug mode............................... 2-43
2.1.4.4.1 ..................... Insert Comment ....................................................... 2-46
2.1.4.4.2 ..................... Modify/Change ......................................................... 2-46
2.1.4.4.3 ..................... Modify/Change ladder operator................................ 2-46
2.1.4.4.4 ..................... Insert/Modify Variable .............................................. 2-47
2.1.4.4.5 ..................... Properties Variable .................................................. 2-47
2.1.4.4.6 ..................... Object Properties ..................................................... 2-47
2.1.5 .................................... Status bar................................................................. 2-48
3 ................................................... Project ........................................................................ 3-1
3.1 ........................................... Attributes .................................................................... 3-2
3.2 ........................................... Global Variables......................................................... 3-3
3.2.1 .................................... New ............................................................................ 3-4
3.2.2 .................................... New Folder................................................................. 3-5
3.2.3 .................................... Import ......................................................................... 3-5
3.2.4 .................................... Import Folder.............................................................. 3-5
3.2.5 .................................... Reimport Folder ......................................................... 3-6
3.2.6 .................................... Global Variables Files ................................................ 3-6
3.2.6.1 ............................ Remove From Project ................................................ 3-7
3.2.6.2 ............................ Delete ........................................................................ 3-7
3.2.6.3 ............................ Rename ..................................................................... 3-8
3.2.7 .................................... Global Variables - Repository .................................... 3-8
3.2.7.1 ............................ Add 3-9
3.2.7.2 ............................ Modify ........................................................................ 3-9
3.2.7.3 ............................ Delete ...................................................................... 3-10
3.2.7.4 ............................ Delete All.................................................................. 3-10
3.2.7.5 ............................ Import ....................................................................... 3-10
3.2.7.6 ............................ Export....................................................................... 3-11
3.2.7.7 ............................ I/O Editor global variables ........................................ 3-11
3.3 ........................................... Data ......................................................................... 3-12
3.3.1 .................................... New .......................................................................... 3-13
3.3.2 .................................... New Folder............................................................... 3-13
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3.3.3.................................... Import ...................................................................... 3-13

3.3.4.................................... Import Folder ........................................................... 3-14
3.3.5.................................... Data Types .............................................................. 3-14
3.3.5.1 ............................ Remove From Project.............................................. 3-14
3.3.5.2 ............................ Delete ...................................................................... 3-15
3.3.5.3 ............................ Rename ................................................................... 3-15
3.3.5.4 ............................ Properties ................................................................ 3-15
3.4 ........................................... Logical Units ............................................................ 3-15
3.4.1.................................... New ......................................................................... 3-16
3.4.2.................................... New Folder .............................................................. 3-17
3.4.3.................................... Import ...................................................................... 3-17
3.4.4.................................... Import Folder ........................................................... 3-17
3.4.5.................................... Reimport Folder....................................................... 3-18
3.4.6.................................... Remove From Project.............................................. 3-18
3.4.7.................................... Delete ...................................................................... 3-18
3.4.8.................................... Rename ................................................................... 3-18
3.4.9.................................... Properties ................................................................ 3-18
3.5 ........................................... Libraries................................................................... 3-19
3.6 ........................................... Tasks ....................................................................... 3-20
3.6.1.................................... New ......................................................................... 3-21
3.6.2.................................... New Folder .............................................................. 3-21
3.6.3.................................... Import ...................................................................... 3-21
3.6.4.................................... Import Folder ........................................................... 3-22
3.6.5.................................... Reimport Folder....................................................... 3-22
3.6.5.1 ............................ Add Instance ........................................................... 3-22
3.6.5.2 ............................ Remove From Project.............................................. 3-22
3.6.5.3 ............................ Delete ...................................................................... 3-23
3.6.5.4 ............................ Rename ................................................................... 3-23
3.6.5.5 ............................ Properties ................................................................ 3-23
3.6.5.5.1 ..................... Remove From Project.............................................. 3-23
3.6.5.5.2 ..................... Properties ................................................................ 3-24
3.7 ........................................... System Configuration .............................................. 3-24
3.7.1.................................... Memories................................................................. 3-24
3.7.2.................................... Servers .................................................................... 3-26
3.7.2.1 ............................ External Server Configuration ................................. 3-27
3.7.2.2 ............................ Function Names ...................................................... 3-27
3.7.2.3 ............................ External Function Configuration .............................. 3-28
3.7.3.................................... Input Output - Configuration .................................... 3-28
3.7.3.1 ............................ I/O Server Configuration .......................................... 3-30
3.7.3.2 ............................ New Server.............................................................. 3-30
3.7.3.2.1 ..................... Delete3-30
3.7.3.2.2 ..................... Rename ................................................................... 3-30
3.7.3.2.3 ..................... New - Board ............................................................ 3-30
3.7.3.2.4 ..................... New - Fieldbus ........................................................ 3-31
3.7.3.2.5 ..................... Monitor .................................................................... 3-31
3.7.3.2.6 ..................... Add Board ............................................................... 3-33
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3.7.3.2.7 ..................... Remove From Project .............................................. 3-33

3.7.3.2.8 ..................... Properties................................................................. 3-34
3.7.3.2.9 ..................... Fieldbus list .............................................................. 3-34
3.7.3.2.9.1.............. Canopen Fieldbus .................................................... 3-34
3.7.3.2.9.2.............. Etn Fieldbus ............................................................. 3-34
3.7.3.2.9.3.............. TCPIP Modbus Fieldbus .......................................... 3-35
3.7.3.2.9.4.............. RTU Modbus Fieldbus ............................................. 3-35
3.7.3.2.9.5.............. DeviceNet Fieldbus .................................................. 3-35
3.7.3.2.10 ................... Monitor ..................................................................... 3-35
3.7.3.2.11 ................... Remove From Project .............................................. 3-37
3.7.3.2.12 ................... Properties................................................................. 3-37
3.7.3.2.13 ................... Add Node ................................................................. 3-37
3.7.3.2.14 ................... Remove From Project .............................................. 3-40
3.7.3.2.15 ................... Properties................................................................. 3-40
3.7.3.2.16 ................... ISA/PCI board list..................................................... 3-40
3.7.3.2.16.1 ........... SC18 3-40
3.7.3.2.16.2 ........... AX4 3-42
3.7.3.2.16.3 ........... PALLETPC............................................................... 3-42
3.7.3.2.16.4 ........... MAPPEDINPUT ....................................................... 3-43
3.7.3.2.16.5 ........... MAPPEDOUTPUT ................................................... 3-43
3.7.3.2.16.6 ........... MEMORYMAPPEDINPUT ....................................... 3-44
3.7.3.2.16.7 ........... MEMORYMAPPEDOUTPUT ................................... 3-44
3.7.3.2.16.8 ........... PCI8136 ................................................................... 3-44
3.7.3.2.16.9 ........... WELDINGPC ........................................................... 3-45
3.7.3.2.16.10 ......... COLIBRIGPIO.......................................................... 3-46
3.7.3.2.17 ................... Boards list ................................................................ 3-46
3.7.3.2.17.1 ........... TSR20 ...................................................................... 3-46
3.7.3.2.17.2 ........... TSR31 ...................................................................... 3-47
3.7.3.2.17.3 ........... TSR40 ...................................................................... 3-47
3.7.3.2.17.4 ........... TSR44 ...................................................................... 3-48
3.7.3.2.17.5 ........... TSR51 ...................................................................... 3-48
3.7.3.2.17.6 ........... TSR56 ...................................................................... 3-48
3.7.3.2.17.7 ........... TSR67 ...................................................................... 3-49
3.7.3.2.17.8 ........... TSR72 ...................................................................... 3-50
3.7.4 .................................... Virtual Processor - Configuration ............................. 3-50
3.7.5 .................................... Serial - Configuration ............................................... 3-51
3.7.6 .................................... Axis - Configuration.................................................. 3-51
3.7.6.1 ............................ New Server .............................................................. 3-52
3.7.6.1.1 ..................... Delete3-53
3.7.6.1.2 ..................... Rename ................................................................... 3-53
3.7.6.1.3 ..................... Master Boards.......................................................... 3-53
3.7.6.1.3.1.............. New 3-54
3.7.6.1.3.2.............. Import 3-54
3.7.6.1.3.3.............. Remove From Project .............................................. 3-54
3.7.6.1.3.4.............. Delete3-54
3.7.6.1.3.5.............. Properties................................................................. 3-54
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3.7.6.1.4 ..................... List 3-55

3.7.6.1.4.1.............. New 3-55
3.7.6.1.4.2.............. Import 3-55
3.7.6.1.4.3.............. Monitor .................................................................... 3-56
3.7.6.1.4.4................ Remove From Project.............................................. 3-56
3.7.6.1.4.5.............. Delete3-56
3.7.6.1.4.6.............. Properties ................................................................ 3-56
3.7.6.1.5 ..................... Axes Fieldbus Configuration.................................... 3-57
3.7.6.1.6 ..................... Axes Server Configuration....................................... 3-57
vi
About this guide

This guide has been created to help PowerPLC-Bridge users.
The user guide is divided in the following chapters:
− The Introduction gives an overview of PowerPLC-Bridge and specifies the
hardware and software requirements. It is shown how to install and uninstall
the software and how to open this guide. The basic functionalities of
PowerPLC-Bridge navigation are explained.
− The programming environment gives an overview on the programming
support environment and on all its components. The menu commands and
command buttons of the toolbars are described.
− In Project a complete description of the project zone is reported and it is
explained how to organize and manage a project.
− The Index: help PowerPLC-Bridge user to find the guide topics.
1 Introduction
In this charter the following topics are explained:
− What is Power PLC-Bridge?

− System architecture
− System requirements
− Installing
− Execution
− Uninstalling
− Navigation
− How to open the user guide
1.1 What is PowerPLC-Bridge?

PowerPLC-Bridge is at the same time a programming environment for Windows and
a control software for QNX / Windows / WinCE / RTAI-Linux operating systems. It
allows to transform an industrial personal computer or any little hardware platform
able to run WinCE or Linux OS, into a powerful programming PLC. It can be
programmed using at the same time IEC 1131-3 standard languages and C\C++. The
programming environment and the soft PLC can be connected by mean of Ethernet
TCP/IP. The same Ethernet connection, in the case of distributed applications, can
link several controllers to different calls of the programming software allowing the
debugging of the entire system. The Ethernet connection allows to read and to write
the variables allocated on the other controllers too. This system, by mean of axis
1-1
Chapter 1: Introduction
motion control functions included in the software, allows to program and perform
single and multi axis interpolated motion control.
There are two different programming levels. The first allows the programming of the
application using the IEC 1131-1 standard languages inside Windows, the second
extends the functions of the control software using procedural languages like C and
C++ and running the control application in QNX4/QNX6, LINUX or Windows.
PowerPLC-Bridge is not only a programming software, but is also a powerful
controller that can be used for sophisticated and critical real-time applications,
performing at the same time PLC and motion control functions.
PowerPLC-Bridge is an open system that guarantees the highest standardization
levels:
− the hardware set up is a standard industrial computer, or a more little
hardware platform with WinCE or Linux operating system
− you can use most popular fieldbuses : CANOPEN / PROFIBUS / DEVICENET
/ TCP-MODBUS / MODBUS-RTU / ETHERCAT
− the programming languages respect the IEC 1131-3 standard,
− the communications with human/machine interfaces or supervisors respect the
current standards (MODBUS, 3964R, OPC). It is available a Win DLL too. This
DLL has the services to read and write variables by name
1.2 System architecture

System structure:
TCP/IP Communication
RealTime PC System for

Process Control and
Axis Move
Development System
1-2
1.3 System requirements

The connection from the programming console to the real time PC-based controller is
based on Ethernet TCP/IP.
1.3.1 Requirements of the programming console

Software requirements:
− Windows 2000 XP Vista Seven.
1.3.2 Requirements for the real time PC-based motion controller

Software requirements:
− QNX Windows 2000 XP Vista Seven WinCE Rtai-Linux
Minimum hardware requirements:
− PC or little hardware platform with WinCE or Linux.
1.4 Installation
PowerPLC-Bridge can be installed on the following operating systems:
Windows 2000 XP Vista Seven.
IMPORTANT: PowerPLC-Bridge must be installed directly on stand alone computer.

Remote installation may not work.
To install PowerPLC-Bridge:
1. Insert the PowerPLC-Bridge installation CD in the CD-ROM drive unit.
2. The installation wizard will automatically start after inserting the installation
CD.
Otherwise
3. If the installation wizard does not start automatically then from the application
bar of Windows click on Start-Execute.
4. Then type “unit:\SETUP”, where unit is the current CD–ROM drive unit.
5. Click on OK.
6. Follow the installation wizard instructions.
1.5 Execution
IMPORTANT: PowerPLC-Bridge must run on a local computer, remote execution
may not be work.
1-3
To run PowerPLC-Bridge click on Start – Program – Power-PLCBridge.
1.6 Uninstalling
To remove PowerPLC-Bridge:
1. Exit from PowerPLC-Bridge.
2. From the Windows application bar click on Start – Settings – Control Panel.
3. Double click on Add/Remove Program.
4. Select PowerPLC-Bridge.
5. Click on Add/Remove.
6. Follow the instructions.
1.7 Navigation
You can navigate on PowerPLC-Bridge using a mouse or a keyboard
1.7.1 Use of the mouse

To use the mouse just point the element you want to select and then click the left
button. We refer to this action with the expression “click on”. Most of the operations
can be done using the mouse while some require to digit some data with the
keyboard.
Pointing the element and clicking the right mouse you access to a quick menu that
contain the functions to perform on the selected element. We refer to this action with
the expression “right click on”. To select the desired function just click on its name
with the left button.
To make a selection of several objects or text, hold down the left button of the mouse
and draw an imaginary rectangular selection area that contains the desired objects,
starting from the top left corner and releasing at the right bottom. The objects that
are completely contained in this area will be selected.
To drag a selected group of objects, click on one of the elements of the group holding
down the button, drag it to the new desired position, then release the button again.
1.7.2 Use of the keyboard

To navigate on PowerPLC-Bridge using the keyboard pressing Alt+<underlined
letter>. For example pressing <Alt+H>, the help menu will appear.
1-4
To select a item of a menu, type the underlined letter or by pressing the <up arrow>
(↑) and <down arrow> (↓) move the selection on the desired item and then press
<Return>. To exit from a menu without making a selection just click on <Alt>.
Pressing <Tab> the selection moves throw the different options of the dialog box (the
selected item will appear inside a dark edged box). To move the selection box inside
a menu press the <up arrow> (↑) and <down arrow> until the desired item is
selected then press <Return>.
1.8 How to open the user guide

When you are using PowerPLC-Bridge, you can always consult the on-line user
guide if necessary.
For the IEC 1131-3 standard manual see the IEC1131-3 Help.
For the quick start guide see the Quick Start Help.
For the complete manual see the PowerPLCBridge Help.
You can select the language of the on-line guide using the Help Language menu
entry
1.8.1The on-line user guide

The on-line user guide of PowerPLC-Bridge gives precise information on PowerPLC-
Bridge functionalities and detailed instructions for specific operations.
To open the on-line user guide, click on Help – Master Help from the menu of the
main window of PowerPLC-Bridge..
1.8.2The README.TXT file

The README.TXT file contains important information, updated at the time of the
shipping of the product. This file may contains updates and correction to the present
guide and information concerning installation and configuration of the software.
1-5
2 Programming environment
The programming environment is a Windows application that allows to communicate
by mean of an Ethernet connection with the controller.
To obtain more information concerning the programming environment interface see
the programming interface.
For more information on the IEC 1131-3 standard and on the programming
languages see The IEC 1131-3 Standard.
A block scheme of PowerPLC-Bridge, showing the main functions and their logical
connections are reported in the following image:
DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM
Text Editor Graphic Editor I/O AXIS Global
For For IEC-1131-3 Task Configuration Configuration Symbol
ST, IL and SFC FBD, Ladder Configuration Editor Editor Editor
and SFC
PRINTS
Source
Error Check & notice, with

AXIS Diagnostics & COMPILER automatic self-positioning onto
Manual axis wrong programming line
moving
VIRTUAL PROCESSOR CODE

I/O Diagnostic, AND
activation and INFORMATIONS OF SYMBOLS
visualization
Graphic Incremental
debugging, Downloader CPU “load” check
variables’ data for any IEC-1131
logger and task
‘scope
TCP/IP communication to the Control System
PowerPLC-Bridge can be executed by launching the program using different options:
• -a#: specifies the options for multiple execution of PowerPLC-Bridge. If

the program is still running and it is launched again the option:
2-1
Chapter 2: Programming Environment

• a0: will open a new PowerPLC-Bridge.
• a1: will not open a new PowerPLC-Bridge.
• -b followed by a path of an external application, allows to add, to the

tool bar, a start button that will execute the application specified by the
path.
• -c#: specifies the access level request
• c0: PowerPLC-Bridge will start without requiring to specify the

access level.
• 1: PowerPLC-Bridge Bridge will start requiring to specify the

access level.
• -d#: specifies the developement system behaviour when the control

firmware version is not compatible with the development system version
• 0: the developement system can’t work with this control.
• 1: the developement system can work with this control. This

option can be very dangerous and has to be used only by
technicians with deep knowledge in system functionalities
• -f#: specifies if the startup module with system configuration has to be

viewed
• 0: the startup module is always hidden.
• 1: the startup module can be viewed in the editor form
• -h#: specifies the charset for the main font of the program
• -i#: specifies the PowerPLC application to be opened at startup time
• -m#: specifies if the developement system has to comunicate with

control system
• 0: IDE communicates with the control system.
2-2

• 1: IDE doesn’t comunicate with the control system and works in

offline mode
• -o#: this option specifies the pathnames of the dictionaries to be used.

The pathnames has to be separated by commas
• -p#: this option specifies the language code for the PowerPLC
application
• -q#: this option specifies the language code for the IDE
2.1 The programming interface

The menu bar and the application bar are placed at the top of PowerPLC-Bridge user
interface. The menu bar contains all the PowerPLC-Bridge functions, while the tool
bar gives a quick access to the most common commands.
At the center of the interface there are two frames: the project manager and the
editor frame
The Status bar is located at the bottom of the window.
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2.1.1The menu bar

In the menu there are the following submenus and commands:
− File
− New …
− Project
− Open
− Open Project
− Reopen
− Save
− Save as
− Save Project As
− Save All
− Close
− Close All
− Save Project on Target
− Load Project from Target
− Project Maintenance
− Check Current Object Consistency
− Compare Binary File With Current Target Image
− Print Setup
− Printer Setup
− Page Setup
− Print Module
− Print Project…
− Exit
− Edit
− Undo
− Cut
− Copy
− Paste
− Delete
− Select All
− UnSelect All
− Search
− Find
− Find In Files
− Replace ...
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− Search Again
− View
− Project Manager
− Program Monitor
− Cross Reference
− Zoom In
− Zoom Out
− Actual Size
− Execution Order
− Project
− Compile Unit
− Make
− Build
− Options
− Debug
− Download Program
− Special Downloads
− All Objects
− On line changes
− Attach To Program
− Hardware configuration Diagnostics
− Clear Program
− Reopen Current Servers Configuration
− Synchronize Date & Time
− Run
− Stop
− Restore Connection – Close Connection
− Tools
− Logon
− Set language
− IDE
− Program
− Synchronize Date and Time
− Data Logger
− Remote System Autostartup Breaker
− Window
− Edit Windows
− Tile
− Cascade
− Arrange Icons
− Help
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− Help Language
− Italian
− English
− Master Help
− PowerPLC Bridge Help
− IEC 1131-3 Help
− Quick Start Help
− Editor
− ASCII Key Mapping
− GRAPH Key Mapping
− About
Some of menu commands can be lunched using shortcuts

The shortcuts list is reported with a brief description in the Shortcut table.
2.1.1.1 Shortcuts table

Shortcut Description
F1 On-line help
F2 File – Save
F4 Run to Cursor
F6 Open Next Source Action
F7 Trace Into
F8 Step Over
F10 View – Project Manager
Alt+X File – Exit
Alt+F3 Close Page
Alt+F7 Open Prev Message Form List File
Alt+F8 Open Next Message Form List File
Alt+F9 Project – Compile Unit
Alt+Enter Locate File in Project Tree
Alt+BkSp Edit – Undo
Ctrl+A Edit – Select All
Ctrl+F Debug – Delete/Restore Connection
Ctrl+G Tools – Data Logger
Ctrl+I View – Zoom In
Ctrl+J ToggleSourceVarAction
Ctrl+L Search – Search Again
Ctrl+O View – Zoom Out
Ctrl+Q Set PC to cursor and take a single step
Ctrl+R Debug – Run
Ctrl+S Select All Connection Object
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Ctrl+T Debug – Stop

Ctrl+W Link Mode
Ctrl+F2 Debug – Clear Program
Ctrl+F8 Toggle Breakpoint
Ctrl+F9 Project – Make
Ctrl+F11 File – Open Projet
Ctrl+C Edit – Copy
Ctrl+X Edit – Delete
Ctrl+V Edit – Paste
Ctrl+Enter Open File at Cursor
Ctrl+Alt+B Build+clear program+download+run
Ctrl+Alt+C Online Changes and Move To Cursor Position
Ctrl+Alt+D Debug – Download Program
Ctrl+Alt+F Search – Find
Ctrl+Alt+G Move To Cursor
Ctrl+Alt+L Tools – Logon
Ctrl+Alt+O Options
Ctrl+Alt+P Follow Program Counter
Ctrl+Alt+S Close Debug Session
Ctrl+Alt+M Dictionaries reload
Ctrl+Alt+W Current language change
Ctrl+Alt+F9 Project – Build
Ctrl+Alt+F11 View – Project Manager
Ctrl+Alt+Enter Execute Set Of Instructions
Ctrl+Alt+Up Execution Block Selection Up
Ctrl+Alt+Down Execution Block Selection Down
Ctrl+Alt+End Execution Block Deselection
Shift+F2 File – Save All
Shift+F6 OpenPrevSourceAction
Shift + Ins Edit - Paste
Shift + Del Edit - Cut
2.1.1.2 File - New - Project

To open a new project select File - New - Project.
The default name of a new project is PrjPlc1.
To change the project name see File – Save Project As.
2.1.1.3 File - Open

To open an existing project from the menu select File - Open.
Browse the folder and the desired file, press OK to open the file, or Cancel to go
back to the main window.
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Pressing OK the file will be open in the editor frame.
2.1.1.4 File - Open Project

To open an existing project from the menu select File – Open Project.
Browse the folder and the desired project, press OK to open it, or Cancel to go back
to the main window.
The project data are memorized as follows:
− General information are saved in a file with the name of the project with
Ppj extension.
− The logical unit code, variables, comments, the hardware configuration, the
axis configuration, and all the other information are saved in the folder
containing the .Ppj file.
The project frame contains the project data while the editor frame is empty.
2.1.1.5 File - Reopen

To re-open a file or a project that has been recently opened or closed, select File –
Reopen.
A sliding menu will appear, reporting the recently opened projects and files
respectively in the upper and lower part of the menu. Click on the name of the item to
open it.
The list of the recent file and projects are reported chronologically beginning from the
ones that have been closed later.
2.1.1.6 File - Save

To save the current file, select File – Save.
2.1.1.7 File – Save as

To save the current file with another name, select File – Save.
2.1.1.8 File - Save Project As

To save the current project with another name, select File – Save Project As.
Browse the folder and type the new name for the project, press OK to save it or
Cancel to go back to the main window without saving.
After saving the project, this will become the current one.
2.1.1.9 File - Save All

To save all the open files and the project, select File – Save All.
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2.1.1.10 File - Close

To close the current file, select File – Close.
If any file is open the project will be closed.
2.1.1.11 File - Close All

To close all the open files and the project, File – Close All.
2.1.1.12 File - Save Project on Target

To save the entire project as a compressed file in the controller, select File – Save
Project on Target
This function allows to save the project directly on the controller and can be useful for
future upgrades and modification of the program as all the project files (code source,
configuration files, etc.) are stored in the controller and can be always recovered.
2.1.1.13 File - Load Project from Target

To load the entire project from the controller, select File – Load Project from
Target.
This function allows to reload the entire project, if saved in advance, from the
controller. If the project was saved at the end of the development of the application,
the recovered project is the one running on the controller.
2.1.1.14 File - Project Maintenance - Check Current Object

Consistency
To check if the current object corresponds to the sources files, select File – Project
Maintenance – Check Current Object Consistency
2.1.1.15 File - Project Maintenance - Compare Binary Files With

Current Target Image
To compare the current object with the binary files on the controller select: File –
Project Maintenance – Compare Binary Files With Current Target Image.
2.1.1.16 File - Print Setup - Printer Setup

To view and modify the printer settings, select File – Print Setup – Printer Setup.
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2.1.1.17 File - Print Setup - Page Setup

To view and modify the printer page layout , select File – Print Setup – Page Setup.
2.1.1.18 File - Print Project

To print the current project, select File – Print Project.
2.1.1.19 File - Exit

To exit form PowerPLC-Bridge, select File – Exit.
2.1.1.20 Edit - Undo

To cancel the last graphical or editing operation select Edit – Undo.
The operations that can be cancelled are the following::
− Insert a new block.
− Link two blocks.
− Cut of a group of objects.
− Re-insert of a group of objects.
Only the last graphical or editing operation can be cancelled.
2.1.1.21 Edit - Cut

To cut a group of graphical objects or part of a text from a frame, after selecting the
objects to cut, select Edit – Cut.
To learn how to select group of objects or part of a text from a frame see Navigation
while to learn how to select all the objects from a frame see Edit – Select All.
After selecting Edit – Cut, the selected objects disappear; to re-insert them see Edit
– Paste.
2.1.1.22 Edit - Copy

To copy multiple objects or part of a text, after having selected the objects to copy,
select Edit – Copy.
After selecting Edit – Copy, to re-insert the copied objects, see Edit – Paste.
2.1.1.23 Edit - Paste

To paste in a frame the graphical objects or the text that have been copied or cut
select Edit – Paste.
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Before selecting Edit – Paste, click the mouse in the place you want to insert the
objects.
To learn more about how to drag a group of objects, see Navigation.
2.1.1.24 Edit - Delete

To delete multiple objects or part of a text, after selecting the objects to delete, select
Edit – Delete.
After selecting Edit – Delete, the selected objects are deleted and lost; to recover
them see Edit – Undo.
2.1.1.25 Edit - Select All

To select all the objects of the current frame select Edit – Select All.
You can then, cut, copy or delete the selected objects.
To learn more about the operations to perform on the selected objects see Edit – Cut
for cutting, Edit – Copy to copy and Edit – Delete to delete.
2.1.1.26 Edit - UnSelect All

To destroy the previous selection
2.1.1.27 Search - Find

To search for a string inside a file select Search – Find, type the text to find and click
Ok otherwise to cancel the search click Cancel.
The searching dialog consist of:
− Text to find.
− Options: searching options.
− Case Sensitive: The search will be performed distinguish capital
letters.
− Whole Words Only: PowerPLC-Bridge will look also for spacing
around the string and non alphanumeric characters.
− Where: Specifies where to perform the search.
− Forward: from the position of the cursor to the end of file.
− Backward: From the position of the cursor to begging of the file.
− Scope: Defines how far the search must be performed.
− Global: the search is performed in the whole file.
− Selected Text: the search is performed only in the selected text.
− Origin: Defines the beginning position for the search.
− From Cursor: the search will start from the cursor.
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− Entire Scope: the search will start from the beginning of file.
2.1.1.28 Search - Find In Files

To search for a string inside different files, select Search – Find In File, type the text
to find and click Ok otherwise to cancel the search click Cancel.
The searching dialog consist of:
− Text to find.
− Case Sensitive: The search will be performed distinguish capital
letters.
around the string and non alphanumeric characters.
− Where: Specifies where to perform the search.
− Search all files in project: the search is performed in all the files of the
project.
− Search in directories: the search is performed inside a folder.
− Search directory options: if the “Search in directories” is selected,
defines the searching options.
− File mask: Path and mask for selecting the files in which performing the
search.
− Include subdirectory: the mask will be used to search the files also in
the subdirectories.
− Output: defines where to output the search results.
− Display results in separate tab in message view: The search results
will be shown in a separate page, inside the messages frame.
The results of the search are shown in the messages frame. By double clicking
on the the list row, you can place the mouse on the ST frame and see the text
searched highlighted or you can place the mouse on the graphic module, where
the text has been found, and see the associated block highlighted.
2.1.1.29 Search - Replace ...

To replace a string with another inside a file, select Search – Replace …, type the
text to replace and the new text to insert then click Ok otherwise to cancel the
operation click Cancel.
The searching dialog consist:
− Text to find: string to find and replace.
− Replace with.
− Case Sensitive: the search will be performed distinguish capital letters.
around the string and non-alphanumeric characters.
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− Prompt on replace: if selected, before substituting the string,

PowerPLC-Bridge required a confirmation; otherwise the substitution is
automatic and any confirmation will be required.
− Where: specifies where to perform the search.
− Forward: from the position of the cursor to the end of file.
− Backward: from the position of the cursor to begging of the file.
− Scope: defines how far the search must be performed.
− Global: the search is performed in the whole file.
− Selected Text: the search is performed only in the selected text.
− Origin: defines the beginning position for the search.
− From Cursor: the search will start from the cursor.
− Entire Scope: the search will start from the beginning of file.
− Replace All: to replace every occurrence of the searched string. If
Options – Prompt on replace is selected at each occurrence, a
replacement confirmation is required.
2.1.1.30 Search - Search Again

To repeat the last research performed, select Search – Search Again.
2.1.1.31 View - Project Manager

To open the project manager frame, select View – Project Manager.
To close the project manager frame, click on the button at the top right corner of
the project manager frame.
For more information about the project managing, see Project.
2.1.1.32 View - Program Monitor

To open the Program Monitor, select View – Program Monitor. The Program
Monitor can be opened only if the project has already been downloaded on the
controller.
The frame is divided in two pages:
− Tasks, contains the tasks list that report for each task the following
information:
− s: task state; an icon indicates the state of the task. The possible task
states are:
− and alternate. Task in execution.
− Task in stop.
− t: task type; an icon indicates the type of task. The possible types are:
− Cyclic.
− on Event.
− Free Running.
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− (Child) Dynamic.
If on the icon a magnifying glass is shown, it means that the debugger
is linked to the task.
− Name: name of the task.
Double clicking on a task row, a new page will be opened in the editor
frame for the debug of the task. See Editor frame to have more information
about the editor frame.
Double clicking on the Tasks page, the following popup appear:
− Force Continue Task: with this command you can force a task,
waiting for an event, to restart.
− Kill This Task: with this command you can delete the selected task
but not his created children task.
− Kill All Task Children: with this command you can delete all the
tasks children of the selected task
− Stop Update: with this command you can stop or restart the
update of the tasks page.
− Open Global Section: with this command you can switch to the
Global Section mode, i.e. the debugger is not linked to any task but
works globally.
To see the priority and the state of a task, place the mouse on its row.
− Modules, contains the list of the logical unit that create the project.
Deselecting the unit, it will not be executed.
− Instances: contains the instances tree of the different function blocks and
allows the insertion of break point on a single instance.
The frame shows, in the upper part, the following objects:

- Stack Integrity Checker: with this command you can enable the stack
integrity control, before the execution of each function.
- Task profiler: if enabled, it creates a new tab named Profiler. In this tab
you can see the current execution time, the max execution time, the
current period between two executions, the max period between two
executions and the CP percentage used by task. All this infos help to see
the real time grade of the task.
- Open Global Section: with this command you can switch in the Global
Section mode, i.e. the debugger is not linked to any task but works
globally.
2.1.1.33 View - Cross Reference

To view the list of global variables and the unit in which they are used select View –
Cross Reference.
For each logical unit the list shows a row, and for each row the following information
are reported:
− Variable: name of the variable.
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− POU: logical unit in which the variable is used.

− Access: type of access to the variables. The different types are:
− RW: the variable is used both for reading and writing.
− R: the variable is used only for reading.
− Type: type of variable
− Comment: comment to the variable.
Double clicking on a row of the variables list, the logical unit in which the variable is
used will be shown in the editor frame.
With a right click on the list, the following popup appear:
− Filter: with this command you can view the Set Filter page and setup the
filter to apply to the list. For more information about this page see Set
Filter.
− Hide: with this command you can hide the list.
− Print: with this command you can print the list.
2.1.1.33.1 Set Filter
To setup a filter on the cross reference variables list, click the right button of the
mouse on the list and select Filter.
The menu consist of:
− Mask: the filter mask to apply. The characters * and ? can be used.
− Enabled: the filter is enabled.
Chose Ok to apply the filter to the list with the new settings or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
2.1.1.34 View - Zoom In

To increase the objects or text size of the page in the editor frame with the zoom
select View – Zoom In.
2.1.1.35 View - Zoom Out

To reduce the objects or text size of the page in the editor frame with the zoom
select View – Zoom Out.
2.1.1.36 View - Actual Size

To restore the default size of objects and text of the page in the editor frame with the
zoom select View – Actual Size.
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2.1.1.37 View - Execution Order

To see the order of execution of the blocks, inserted in the graphical pages, select
View – Execution Order.
PowerPLC-Bridge will show the execution order of each single block.
The block execution order is from the top to the bottom and from left to right always
following the logical order.
2.1.1.38 Project - Compile Unit

To compile the logical unit that edited, select Project – Compile Unit.
A window appears showing the progress and the result of the compilation. Eventual
errors are reported in the messages window. By clicking on an error row, the source
file will be edited at the row that contains the error. If the error is in a graphic object,
at the moment, the associated ST file will be opened. In fact during the compilation
the modules written in any languages, are translated in ST modules.
2.1.1.39 Project - Make

To make an application, select Project – Make.
Making an application means to compile only the logical unit modified from the last
compilation.
During the make process a window appears, showing the progress and the result of
the compilation. Eventual errors are reported in the messages window. By clicking on
an error row, the source file will be edited at the row that contains the error.
If the error is in a graphic object, the graphic file is opened and the element that
causes the error is highlighted with gray color.
2.1.1.40 Project - Build

To build an application select Project – Build.
Building an application means to compile all the logical units of the application.
During the build process a window appears, showing the progress and the result of
the compilation. Eventual errors are reported in the messages window. By clicking on
an error row, the source file will be edited at the row that contains the error.
If the error is in a graphic object, the graphic file is opened and the element that
causes the error is highlighted with grey colour.
2.1.1.41 Project - Options

To see the projects options select Project – Options. The options cannot be
modified if the project has already been downloaded to the Target.
The project options are organized in the following pages:
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− Connection: in this page it is possible to select the type of connection to

the controller:
− UDP: allows to set up an UDP connection with the controller. In this
case in the Parameters section the following parameters have to be
set:
− Host name: name of the controller host. This name must be defined
the Windows Hosts file in the following manner:
TCP/IP address hostname
Example:
111.111.11.1 qnx1
If you are using a Windows controller installed on the programming
PC, you can directly set the TCP/IP address 127.0.0.1 without
defining it in advance.
To search for all the connected hosts press the Search button. For
more information see Find PowerPLC Bridge server.
− Port Number: allows to set the number of the UDP port.
− Slave Host Names: allows to define a list of controllers on which
duplicate the Download, Run and Clear commands. The Add and
Delete button allows to add and remove items from the list.
− Serial: allows to set up a serial connection with the controller. In this
case in the Parameters section the following parameters have to be
set:
− Comm Port: serial port connected to the controller. The user must
chose within the available ports.
− Directories/Compiler:
− Verbose: allows to enable or disable the verbose compilation mode.
− Compiler Trace: allows the output of the compiler debug file. Only
user with level 4 password can select this option.
− Communication Trace: allows the output of the debug file of the
communication protocol (SWBP). Only user with level 4 password
can select this option.
− Incremental Data Factor: allows to set the multiplying factor of the
data zone of the function block logical units to manage the On Line
Changes only it he On Line Changes option is selected.
− Variables Auto Exports: allows to set the automatic export of all
the global variables at the end of each compilation. If this option is
selected, you are required to set the path of the exporting file.
− Major version/Minor Version/Buid version specify the compilation
version
− Include version in project if checked the project versioni is
inserted in each object module
− BOOL as strong type instructs the compiler to handle BOOL
variables different than BYTE or UBYTE variables. With this option
you can’t put a BOOL variable in an expression. You can cast a
BOOL variable into a BYTE variable in this way:
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ByteTypeVar := BYTE BoolTypeVar ;

− Show Twice Written Variables allows the creation, at the end of
compilation, of a list containing the Boolean variables written more
then once
− Editor:
− Options:
− Show Line Number: allows to show the row number in the text
editor.
− Auto Save Project Desktop: this option enable or disable the
automatic saving of the list of the open files.
− Code Completion Delay: this option enable or disable the
automatic completion of the code. If this option is enabled you must
set the time interval (millisecond) after which the completion
proposal will appear.
− MultiLine Editor Tab Control: it allows the editor to use more lines
for file tabs
− Unconnected radius size: it defines the size in pixel for
connections pointing in graphic languages
− Dot grid: abilita la griglia negli editor grafici
− Font: with this option you can set the text font and size .
− Debugger:
− Options:
− Show Comment in Evaluate Tips: allows to show the comments if
inserted, when the mouse is on the symbolic name of an IO.
− Show Status Variables Colors: Enables the color mode of the
variables during debugging, depending on their status. The
variables which are subject to color change are the Boolean and
Integer variables. The colors that the variables will have according
to their state can be defined in the Colors page. The states which
are managed are:
− False boolean: for the boolean variable with a value equal to
false.
− True boolean: for Boolean variables with a value equal to true.
− Negative integer: for the integer variables with a value less than
zero.
− Zero Integer: for the integer variables with a value of zero.
− Positive integer: for the integer variables with a value greater
than zero.
For each of these states, the operator can set the foreground color
that the variable must take.
− Max Number of Inspect Array Elements: allows to set the
maximum number of elements showed by the inspect of an array.
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− Follow Program Counter Mode: with this option you can set
program counter execution mode. You can choose the following
modes:
− Everywhere: the program counter will execute all the
program parts.
− Only Current Module: the program counter will execute only
the open modules.
− Colors:
− Element: allows to select the element to view and set its properties.
− Color: allows to set the color for the text foreground and the element
background:
− Left click on the color to set it as text foreground; FG is printed in the
color box, indicating that the selected color is the foreground color.
− right click on the color to set it as the element background; BG is
printed in the color box, indicating that the selected color is the
background color of the element.
− To restore the default colors, chose the check buttons of the Use
default for section.
− Text attributes:
− Bold: allows to enable and disable the bold typeface.
− Italic: allows to enable and disable the italic typeface.
− Underline: allows to enable and disable the underline font attribute.
− Use default for:
− Foreground: allows to enable and disable the default foreground
color for the text of the element.
− Background: allows to enable and disable the default background
color of the element.
− Environment:
− Save last project info: if enabled the name of the last opened project
is saved. So, when the developement system starts again it opens this
project automatically.
− Ctrl on Drag & Drop: the drag and drop for the logical units in the
project tree is enabled by pressing Ctrl key.
− Save project on target every download: if enabled, each time the
application program is downloaded on the target, all the project with
source code is saved on the target in zip format
− Project Auto Save: if enabled, the project is saved periodically
− Project backup: if enabled, the developement system keeps a copy of
the project to be used if there will be a malfunction editing frome the
program
− Dialogs font: it defines the font for yhe dialogs
− Style manager: it defines the style (foreground and background colors)
for the editor and the dialogs
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2.1.1.41.1 Project - Options - Find PowerPLC Bridge Server
To see the Find PowerPLC Bridge Server window, click on the Search button from
the project options window.
In the central part of the screen, the list of the PowerPLC Bridge servers found is
reported: for each server the following information is reported:
- Server alias.
- Server address.
- Server operative system, here some examples:
- ppb.qnx: for QNX.
- ppb.win for Windows.
- ppb.neu for Neutrino.
- ppb.lnx for Linux.
- ppb.ce for WinCE
On the right there are two buttons:
- Stop: during the search, allows to stop the searching operation;
- Start: at the end of the search, allows to search again;
- Close: close the window.
If during the search one or more servers are found, attempting to close the window
the user is asked If he want to add the servers found, to the Hosts list, reported in
the center of the window.
For more information concerning the project options window, see Project – Options.
2.1.1.42 Debug - Download Program

To download the project, select Debug - Download Program.
Only the files modified from the last download are transferred to the controller.
If the control system was already configured, the Download Confirmation window
will appear asking the user if he want to download the project or not; by clicking Yes
the user confirm the download, by clicking No the download is cancelled.
In the Download Confirmation window, the Download Hardware Configuration
check, enabled by default, allows to download or not the hardware configuration.
If the control system servers are different from servers configured in the project, the
Server Configuration window appears informing the user of differences found. The
user can chose to confirm the download clicking on the Download button, or to
cancel the operation by pressing Cancel. To hide the details chose Hide Details or
to see them chose Show Details. If the configuration download is confirmed, the
Server Configuration window is shown until the end of the download. At this
moment the user is asked to confirm or not the program download, by clicking
Continue or Cancel.
During the download, the Downloading Program window is shown reporting the
following information:
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− In the first row, the name of the project

− In the second row: the download status and, the download result
− In the third row: the name of the file being downloading.
− In the lower part of the window: the progress-bar showing the download
progress.
Pressing the Cancel button, the download operation is cancelled.
The Program Monitor window will appear, at the end of the download, by clicking the
Ok button.
The application is not executed automatically. To run the application click the button
Run from the Tool bar.
Before downloading, the project has to be saved and compiled.
2.1.1.43 Debug – Special Downloads - All Object

To download all the objects of the project, select Debug – Special Downloads – All
Object.
If the control system was already configured, the Download Confirmation window
will appear asking the user if he want to download the project or not; by clicking Yes
the user confirm the download, by clicking No the download is cancelled.
In the Download Confirmation window, the Download Hardware Configuration
check, enabled by default, allows to download or not the hardware configuration.
If the control system servers are different from servers configured in the project, the
Server Configuration window appears informing the user of differences found. The
user can chose to confirm the download clicking on the Download button, or to
cancel the operation by pressing Cancel. To hide the details chose Hide Details or
to see them chose Show Details. If the configuration download is confirmed, the
Server Configuration window is shown until the end of the download. At this
moment the user is asked to confirm or not the program download, by clicking
Continue or Cancel.
During the download, the Downloading Program window is shown reporting the
− In the first row, the name of the project
− In the second row: the download status and, the download result
− In the third row: the name of the file that we are downloading.
In the lower part of the window: the progress-bar showing the download progress.
Pressing the Cancel button, the download operation is cancelled.
The Program Monitor window will appear, at the end of the download, by clicking the
Ok button.
The application is not executed automatically. To run the application click the button
Before downloading, the project has to be saved and compiled.
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2.1.1.44 Debug – Special Downloads - On Line Changes

To download the project without stopping its execution on the controller, select
Debug – Special Downloads – On Line Changes.
Selecting this option, PowerPLC Bridge compares the running project with the last
compilation, and sends to the controller only the files that have been modified. The
controller must wait the right moment to execute the changes. Until this moment the
Substitution in progress message will be shown. If the controller is not able to
apply the changes, for example because the controller is waiting for a task to exit
from a logical unit that has to be substituted, it will appear a dialog that says that it
was impossible to make the on-lene changes requested and the reason of this
impossibility.
If the changes introduced required a data space, bigger then the space used for the
multiplying factor, set within the project options, PowerPLC Bridge will signal an error.
By pressing at the same time CTRL + ALT + C is like selecting sequencelly Project
– Make and Debug – Special Downloads – On Line Changes.
2.1.1.45 Debug - Attach To Program

To attach the program on the controller to the current project, select Debug – Attach
To Program or click on the button from the Tool bar.
If the current project is the same of the one on the controller, the Program Monitor will
appear without downloading the project.
2.1.1.46 Debug – Hardware Configuration Diagnostic

To monitor the hardware, select Debug – Hardware Configuration Diagnostics.
This command enable the Monitor option for the nodes that allow a test, like for
example the axes, the fielbus and the I/O boards.
2.1.1.47 Debug - Clear Program

To delete all the files from the controller, select Debug - Clear Program.
2.1.1.48 Debug – Reopen Current Servers Configuration

To close and open the configuration of the servers, select Debug – Reopen Current
Servers Configuration.
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2.1.1.49 Debug - Run
To run the project on the controller, select Debug – Run or click on the button
2.1.1.50 Debug - Stop

To stop the execution of the project on the controller, select Debug – Stop or click
the button Stop in the Tool bar.
2.1.1.51 Debug - Restore Connection / Close Connection

To restore the communication with the control system, select from the menu bar
Debug - Restore Connection.
To close the communication with the control system select from the menu bar Debug
– Close Connection.
2.1.1.52 Tools – Logon
To change the access level, select Tools – Logon .

The logon window is organized as follows:
UserName: current access level. The user can chose within the six access
levels:
− Password: after having changed the access level to the UserName field, with
this command you can insert insert the password for the selected level.
− OK: after having chosen the UserName and inserted the Password, with this
command you can change the access level to PowerPLC-Bridge.
− Cancel: with this command you can cancel the operation.
− Security: with this command you can open the security window.
The Security window is organized as follows:

− the levels that the user can access depending on its access level, are reported
in the central part of the window. Double clicking on the password of one level,
the Change Password window appear, here you can change the password
and the description of the level.
− Close: with this command you can close the Security window.
The Change Password window is organized as follows:

− New Password: with this command you can insert a new password.
− Retype New Password: with this command you can confirm the password.
− Description: with this command you can change the description of the access
level.
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− OK: verifies and applies the changes to the inserted data.

− Cancel: cancel the password change.
2.1.1.53 Tools – Set Language

Using this menu entry you can set the language for the application
program or for the developement system.
2.1.1.54 Debug – Synchronize Date & Time

To open the Synchronize window, select Debug – Synchronize Date & Time.
The window is organized as follows:
− Host: date and time of the host PC.
− Target: date and time of the controller.
− Synchronize: allows to synchronize the controller with the PC.
− Close: close the Synchronize window.
2.1.1.55 Tools – Data Logger

To open the Graphic Logger Configurator window, select Tools – Data Logger.
PowerPLC-Bridge allows a multi-session data logger.
The Graphic Logger Configurator window is organized as follows:
− In the upper you will find the following buttons:
− Download: with this command you can send to the controller the data
of the selected section.
− Clear: with this command you can delete the data of the selected
section from the controller.
− Run: with this command you can run the selected session.
− Stop: with this command you can stop the execution of the selected
session.
− View: with this command you can plot the data of the selected session
on a graph.
− In the central part the list of the configured sessions are reported, specifying
the following information for each session:
− Session: name of the data logger session.
− Status: session status.
− Samples: number of samples acquired during the session.
With a right click on the list the following popup appears:
− Add Session: with this command you can add a new session. The user is
asked to insert the name for the new session, and then the Session
Configuration dialog appears to insert the new session properties.
2-24

− Delete Session: with this command you can delete the selected session.
− Properties: with this command you can open the Session Configuration
window that shows the selected session properties.
The Session Configuration window reports:

− In the title the name of the session that you are configuring.
− In the upper part:
− IOServer Name: the name of the IO synchronization server; if there is an
IO server name, at its execution it is checked if there are any acquisitions
to be saved by the data logger. If there is no name the data logger session
is asynchronic.
− Frequency: sampling time in nanoseconds.
− Number Of Samples: number of samples to acquire.
− Trigger Variable: name of the triggering variable, to be selected from the
list, and trigger edge type:
− ON: for positive edge.
− OFF: for negative edge.
− In the central part:
− Available Variables: list of the available variables to be recorded.
− Session Variables: variables that are record in the session.
− : allows to add the selected variable from the Available Variables list to
Session Variables. In the Variable Configuration window that will be
shown, the user can insert the following information, concernig the variable
to record and their visualization:
− Name: variable name.
− Measure Unit: measure units of the variables.
− Show As A Sample Informations: allows to view the variable as single
bits beside the graph.
− : with this button you can remove the selected variable within the
Session Variables from the list.
− In the lower part:
− Ok: with this command you can save the properties for the Data Logger
session.
− Cancel: with this command you can cancel the change to the session
properties.
2.1.1.56 Tools - Remote System Autostartup Breaker

The Remote System Autostartup Breaker function, can be selected from Tools –
Remote System Autostartup Breaker, this function stops the automatic start of the
project downloaded, when the controller is started again.
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2.1.1.57 Window - Edit Windows

To view the open logical unit, in the editor frame, select Window – Edit Windows.
2.1.1.58 Window - Edit Windows - Tile

To resize all the editor windows to the same dimension, select Windows – Edit
Windows – Tile.
2.1.1.59 Window - Edit Windows - Cascade

By selecting Windows – Edit Windows – Cascade you can arrange all the windows
in the work area in a cascading fashion, one behind another.
2.1.1.60 Window - Edit Windows - Arrange Icons
By selecting Window – Edit Windows – Arrange Icons you can arrange all of the
minimized windows in the work area in a row at the lower end of the work area.
2.1.1.61 Help – Help language

Using this menu entry you can select the help language between english or italian.
2.1.1.62 Help - Master Help

To open the complete user guide, select Help – Master Help.
The complete guide consist of several sections:
− PowerPLC Bridge Help.
− IEC 1131-3 Help.
− Quick Start Help.
2.1.1.63 Help - PowerPLC Bridge Help

To open the PowerPLC-Bridge user guide, select from the menu Help – PowerPLC
Bridge Help.
2.1.1.64 Help - IEC 1131-3 Help

To open the IEC1131-3 on-line help, select from the menu: Help – IEC1131-3 Help.
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2.1.1.65 Help - Quick Start Help

To open the Quick Start help, select Help – Quick Start Help.
2.1.1.66 Help - Editor - ASCII Key Mapping

To see the ASCII key map of the text editor, select Help – Editor – ASCII Key
Mapping.
2.1.1.67 Help - Editor - GRAPH Key Mapping

To see the GRAPH key map of the graphic editor, select Help – Editor – GRAPH
Key Mapping.
2.1.1.68 Help - About

To see the information concerning the installed version of PowerPLC-Bridge, select
Help – About.
This windows report the following information:
− product logo.
− Product name: PowerPLC-Bridge.
− Version: 7.2 Build #0
− Company: CJB Computer Job Brescia s.r.l.
− Copyright: 2000 – 2011CJB Computer Job s.r.l.
− Serial Number: license serial number.
− Comments: Full Version.
− Information and version of the software components and of the connected
controller servers.
− ST Compiler: ST compiler.
− Bridge: DLL for the communication with PowerPLC-Bridge.
− Servers:
− rtvmserver: real-time virtual machine server; version, date and
operating system of the controller.
− ioserver: I/O server; version, date and operating system of the
controller.
− axisserver: axes server; version, date and operating system of the
controller.
− systemserver: system server; version, date and operating system
of the controller.
− serserver: serial server.
− Custom servers: user defined servers, version, date and operating
system of the controller.
2-27

2.1.2Tool bar
The tool bar consists of two rows. The upper row, starting from left is divided in the
following zones:
− File management zone:
− Open Project: with this command you can open an existing
project.
− Save: with this command you can save the current file.
− Save All: with this command you can save the edited files and
the project.
− Close All Pages: with this command you can close all the edited
files and the project.
− Make All: with this command you can make the application.
− Build All: with this command you can build the application.
− Run and stop zone. The buttons of this zone are enabled only after the
download of the project on the controller:
− Run: with this command you can execute or re-execute a
single task or the entire project. If, in the editor frame, the focus is
on the window of the logical unit of a running task, a single task will
be put in run, otherwise all the project will be executed. By clicking
on the button the list of the single tasks that can be executed will
be shown.
− Stop: with this command you can stop the execution of a
single task or of a complete project. If, in the editor frame, the focus
is on the window of the logical unit of a running task, a single task
will be stopped; otherwise the entire project will be stopped. By
clicking on the button the list of the single tasks that can be
stopped will be shown.
− Attach To Program: with this command you can attach the
source code that is on the controller, to the current project.
− Detach From Program: with this command you can detach the
source code that is on the controller, to the current project.
− Project debug zone. The following buttons are enabled only after that the
project has been executed:
− Trace Into: with this command you can execute the instruction
on which the program counter is placed, entering also in functions
and function blocks.
− Step Over: with this command you can execute the instruction
on which the program counter is placed, without entering in possible
functions or function block.
2-28

− Step Out: with this command you can end the execution and
exit from the function or function block on which the program
counter is placed.
− Run to Cursor: with this command you can execute the code
up to the cursor position.
− Move to Cursor: with this command you can move the program
counter at the cursor position without the execution of the code. The
program counter can move forward and backward.
− Toggle Breakpoint: with this command you can insert or
remove a breakpoint in the actual cursor position. Only in the rows
with a blue dot ( ) it is possible to insert and remove a breakpoint. A
breakpoint is indicated by the red dot ( ) instead of the blue one (
).
− Inspect: with this command you can open the Debugger
Inspector window, of the selected variable. For more information
see Inspect. The actual value of a variable can be seen by simply
placing the mouse on it.
− Add Watch: with this command you can add the selected
variable to the Watch window.
− Evaluate / Modify: with this command you can open the
Evaluate / Modify window of the selected variable. For more
information see Evaluate / Modify.
− To Program Counter Position: with this command you can
view the actual position of the Program Counter.
− Call Stack: with this command you can open the Call Stack
window containing the stack of the function/function block called.
For more information see Call Stack.
− Debug addition tools area containing useful debugging utilities:
− Global Variables Supervision: with this command you can
open the global variables supervision window. For more information
see Global Variables Supervision.
− Application Messages: with this command you can open the
window to manage the circular buffer of the application messages.
− Global Console: with this command you can open the window
of the global console containing the string generated from the
following functions, called by all the application tasks:
− PrintChar.
− PrintNum.
− PrintString.
− PrintTime.
2-29

− PrintTimeDate.
For further information concerning the functions, see Standard
Extension.
− View Graphic Debug Monitor: with this command you can open
the debug window for the graphic units.
− Axes test zone:
− Start Axes: this command closes the feedback loops of all the
configured axes.
− Stop Axes: this command opens the feedback loops of all the
configured axes.
− Reset Axes Errors: this command resets the test axes of all the
configured axes.
− Interpolation: this command by selecting three axes allows to
implement linear, circular and helicoidal interpolated motion. The
resulting trajectory will be plotted on a 3D graph.
For more information see the Axis document.
The second row of the tool bar is divided in the following zones starting from the left:
− Common use buttons zone, for the graphic programming languages (FBD
e LD). The buttons of this area are the followings and allow to select the
corresponding blocks:
− Move/Insert objects: with this command you can select the
“insert and move objects” mode.
− Connect objects: with this command you can select the “link
objects” mode.
− Common use buttons zone, for the graphic programming languages (FBD
e LD). The buttons of this area are followings and allow to select the
corresponding blocks:
− Insert comment: with this command you can select the
comment block. After selecting the block, double click in the
position of the page where you want to insert it.
− Insert variable: with this command you can select the variable
block. After selecting the block, double click in the position of the
page where you want to insert it.
− Insert connector, jump, return or label: with this command
you can select the connector block. After selecting the block,
double click in the position of the page where you want to insert it.
You can switch from a connector block to a jump, return or label,
by double clicking on the inserted block and by changing the type.
− LD language buttons zone. The buttons of this zone are the following and
can be pressed only after having selected the block to which they are
2-30

linked; those buttons are enabled only during the editing of a logical unit
written with LADDER language.
− Add contact below: with this command you can add a parallel
link under the selected block.
− Close branch: with this command you can close the branch of
the selected block.
− Add contact right: with this command you can add a serial
contact on the right of the selected block.
− Add contact left: with this command you can add a serial
contact on the left of the selected block.
− Add contact right cross point: with this command you can add
a cross point on the right of the selected block.
− Add space right: with this command you can add some space
on the right of the selected block.
− Add space left: with this command you can add some space on
the left of the selected block.
− Add space above: with this command you can add some space
under the selected block. This command is possible only if there is
enough space under the selected block to accomplish the operation.
− Delete space above: with this command you can remove some
space under the selected block.
− Add power rail right: with this command you can add the
Power rail block at the right of the selected block.
− Add connector or jump or return: with this command you can
add a connector, a jump or a return at the right of the selected block.
− Add selected FBD block: with this command you can add a
FBD block selected from the Function/Function Block List at the
right of the selected block. The selection list will open automatically.
− LD language buttons zone. The buttons of this zone are the following and
allow to insert the corresponding buttons at the beginning of a new row.
These buttons are enabled only during the editing of a logical unit written
with LADDER language:
− Insert contact coil line.
− Insert contact line.
2-31

2.1.2.1 Inspect
To open the Inspect window click on the button Inspect or select Inspect from
the popup menu that can be opened by clicking the right button of the mouse in the
editor frame of the logical unit in debug mode.
If a variable is selected when you open this window, the variable name will be
automatically inserted in the Expression field and its value will be printed in the
Result field.
The Inspect window is organized as follow:
− Expression: here you can insert the expression to know its value.
− Result: here is printed the value of the expression.
2.1.2.2 Evaluate / Modify
To open the Evaluate / Modify, window click on the button Evaluate / Modify
from the Tool bar or select Evaluate / Modify from the popup menu that can be
opened by clicking the right button of the mouse in the editor frame of the logical unit
in debug mode, or by double clicking on the variable name.
To change the variable to evaluate you don’t need to close the window but you can
just click on the new variable.
If a variable is selected when you open this window, the variable name will be
automatically inserted in the Expression field and its value will be printed in the
Result field.
The Evaluate / Modify window is organized as follows:
− The toolbar contains the following buttons:
− Evaluate: you can insert the expression in the Expression field and
to calculate its value click the Evaluate button; PowerPLC-Bridge
will show the result in the Result field.
− Modify: insert the variable name in the Expression field, insert the
new value in the New Value field, and press the Modify button;
PowerPLC-Bridge will show the result in the Result field.
− Expression: in this field you can insert the expression or the variable
name to evaluate or modify their value. If a variable is selected, while
opening the Evaluate / Modify window, its name is automatically edited in
this field.
− Result: in this field is reported, the result of the expression edited in the
Expression field.
− New Value: in this field can be edited the new value to assign to the
variable, whose name is reported in the in the field Expression. To apply
the change press the Modify button.
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2.1.2.3 Call Stack
To open the Call Stack window, click on the Call Stack button from the Tool bar.
The page will show the list of the calls to the program, to functions and function
blocks that are active at the moment in the current stack.
2.1.2.4 Select a variable
To select a variable you can double click or highlight its name.
2.1.2.5 Global Variables Supervision
To open the Global Variables Supervision window, click the button Global
Variables Supervision in the Tool bar.
In this window the names of the global variables are reported in the left column while
their values are listed in the right column.
By right clicking the mouse the following popup appears:

− Add Variable: with this command you can add the visualization of one or
more global variables. You can select the variable and in the case of
structured variables also the desired field.
− Modify: with this command you can open the Evaluate / Modify window
of the global variable on which the mouse is placed. For further information
about this window, see Evaluate / Modify.
− Sort: this command puts the selected global variables in alphabetical
order.
− Delete: with this command you can delete the visualization of the global
variable on which the mouse is positioned.
− Delete Variables: with this command you can select the global variables to
be deleted usinga multiple selection listbox.
− Delete All: with this command you can delete the visualization of all the
global variables.
− Save Variable set: it saves in the selected file the list of the current
watched global variables.
− Load Variable set: it loads from the selected file the list of the global
variables to be watched.
2-33

2.1.3Project Manager
The project is organized as a tree structure the information is clear and easy to be
understood. All the operations concerning the managing of the project can be easily
performed using this structure. The tree consist of the following nodes:
− Project
− Global Variables
− Repository
− ST file with global variables definition
Data
− User data type
− Logical Units
− logical units:
− Program.
− Function.
− Function block.
− Libraries
− System
− Inputs Outputs
− ....
− Keywords
− FOR
− WHILE
− ....
− Tasks
− User Tasks
− Programs istances
− System Configuration
− Memories: memory configuration.
− Not Retain: non retain memory
− Retain: retain memory.
− File: memory on file.
− Shared: shared memory identified by name for external
applications.
− Servers: memory associated to servers.
− Servers: servers configuration.
− Inputs Outputs: server to manage the IO.
− Configuration
− Server I/O
− List
− ISA/PCI board configuration
2-34

− Fieldbus or node configuration

− Boards configuration
− Virtual Processor: server to manage the virtual machine.
− Configuration: virtual machine configuration.
Click with the right button on one of the structure node and select the operation to
perform.
2.1.4Editor frame
In the Editor frame you can edit and modify the files constituting the logical units.
Each logical unit consist of:
− one file for the code. This file can be:
− a text file for the logical units written with the following languages:
− ST, text file with StC extension.
− IL, text file with IlC extension.
− a graphical file for the logical units written with the following languages:
− FBD, graphical language with StG extension.
− LD, graphical language with StG extension.
− one file for the input, output or internal variables of the logical unit, with StV
extension. For logical units written with graphical languages (FBD and LD),
this file has a tree structure; for logical units written with text languages (ST
and IL), this is a text file that has to be completely edited by the user.
− one file for the comments with TXT extension.
The editor frame is divided in three parts:

− The upper part reports the complete name (with extension) of the files
edited.
− In the central part the file (text type or graphical) is edited.
− In the lower part, for each logical unit, are reported the tabs to switch
between the files that compose the unit:
− Code: code of the logical unit. The text or the graphical editor is
opened, depending on the type of language used.
− Variables: variables declaration of the logical unit. If the logical unit
is written with graphical languages (FBD e LD), this file is organized
as a tree structure; if the logical unit is written with a text language
(ST e IL), this file has to be edited completely by the user.
− Comments: comments of the logical unit.
− Disassembler: logical unit Virtual Machine Code, this code is visible
only in debug mode.
and the buttons to manage more pages of the graphical editor:
− Delete Page: with this command you can delete the current
graphical page.
2-35

− Insert Page: with this command you can add a new page
before the current page.
− Add Page: with this command you can add a new page after
the current page.
− Go To Page: with this command you can go to the desired page
by inserting the page number.
− Page X/Y: X correspond to the current page number, while Y is the
total number of the pages of the logical unit.
− Page Up/Down: with this command you can pass to the previous
or next page.
To show a logical unit, double click on its node.
2.1.4.1 Text Editor

The text editor works like most of the text editors and the keywords are highlighted in
bold style.
With the text editor you can insert the code of the logical units written in ST and IL
languages.
If those languages are used, the user has to declare all the variables used in the
logical unit. The variables declaration has to be made in a file with the same name of
the logical unit and StV for extension; to open the file click on the Variables tab of
the logical unit.
For further information concerning the ST and IL languages syntax see the IEC 1131-
3 Standard.
By right clicking on the text, the following popup will appear:
− Link mode: set or reset link mode for FBD editor.
− Cut: with this command you can cut the selected rows.
− Copy: with this command you can copy the selected rows.
− Paste: with this command you can paste the rows that have been copied
or cut in advance.
− Select all connected objects: it selects all cconnected objects
− Code completion: it is a help to insert a function call with or without formal
parameter names, or a global or local variable or a define. A submenu
allows to select the type of the rousource the programmer needs. In all of
these cases a listbox appears with all the resources af the selected type.
By pressing the ESC key the programmer can go back to the editor.
− Open Source/Variable File: with this command you can pass from the
code file (graphical or text type) to the variables one and vice versa.
− Open File At Cursor: with this command you can open the logical unit of
the function which name has been selected.
− Back To file opened At Cursor: with this command you can go back to
edit the file that was opened when you selected previous activity.
2-36

− Locate File in Project Tree: with this command you can select the logical
unit inside the tree structure of the project.
− Find module in files: this command serches in all the logical units of the
project the references to the editing module and displays these references
in the lower part of the screen.
− Close Page: with this command you can close the current page.
− Close All But This one: it closes all the files but not the current one.
− Close All Page: with this command you can close all the pages currently
edited in the editor frame.
− New Edit Window: with this command you can open a new page of the
current logical unit.
− Print module: with this command you can print the current page.
The text editor can be completed by the use of the shortcuts whose list can be seen
by choosing Help – Editor – ASCII Key Mapping.
2.1.4.2 Text editor in debug mode

By opening a logical unit written with text language (ST and IL) in debug mode, you
can perform the following operations:
− View and modify the source code of the logical unit.
− View the Virtual Code Machine of the logical unit, in the Disassembler page.
− Set or remove the breakpoints.
− Monitor the execution of the application using the single step mode.
− View the variables value.
In the lower part of the editor frame the following pages concerning, the current
logical unit, are reported:
− Local Variables: this page is automatically filled with the local variables of
the logical unit and their values, if already calculated.
− Watch: the variables that have been added in watch are inserted in this
page. For each variable in watch it is shown and updated the value.
− CPU Registers: In this page the virtual processor registers are reported, the
registers are the following:
− Current instruction.
− Frame pointer.
− Stack status.
− Interpreter status.
− System error.
− Task type.
− Func block register.
− Module name.
For further information concerning the real time virtual machine see the
document Rtvm.
− Console: in this page are reported the strings produced by the following
functions:
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− PrintChar.
− PrintNum.
− PrintString.
− PrintTime.
− PrintTimeDate.
By right clicking on the text page the, Debug option is added to the standard options
of the text editor frame. The debug will open the following popup:
− Toggle Breakpoint: with this command you can add or remove a
breakpoint on the rows indicated by a blue dot ( ) The breakpoints, for all
the tasks (Global Session), are indicated by a red dot ( ) and the
corresponding row text colour is changed into dark red. The breakpoint on
a single task is indicated by red dot with green check sign ( ) and the
corresponding row text colour is changed into red.
− Instance Toggle Breakpoint: with this command you can choose the
instance of the function block on which add or remove a breakpoint. The
breakpoint for the single instance of the function block, is inserted at the
beginning of the variables definition of the logical unit, and it is indicated by
a red dot without the green check sign ( ) while the corresponding row text
colour is changed into bordeaux.
− Clear all breakpoints : it removes all the breakpoints in all the logical units
of the application
− Run To Cursor: with this command you can continue the task execution
− Move To Cursor: with this command you can move the program counter
to the cursor position without executing any instruction. The program
counter can be moved forward or backward.
− Inspect: with this command you can view the Inspect window for the
selected variable. For further information concerning the Inspect
command, see Inspect.
− Evaluate/Modify: with this command you can view the Evaluate/Modify
window for the selected variable. For further information concerning the
Evaluate/Modify command see Evaluate/Modify.
− Add Watch at Cursor: with this command you can add to the Watch
window the selected variable.
− Call stack: it displays on the right part of the screen the function call frame
in the stack of the current task
− Online Changes and Move To Current Position: with this command you
can make Online Changes and move the program counter to the actual
position of the cursor.
− Follow Program Counter: with this command you can enable or disable
the program counter position visualization during the execution.
− Close Debug Session: with this command you can close the debugging
mode.
In debugging mode you can view the variables value of the program by placing the
mouse on it.
2-38

2.1.4.3 Graphical editor

With the graphical editor you can insert in the graphical page the blocks, the
functions and the functions blocks written in LADDER and FBD graphical languages.
By linking the blocks together you can design the program logics.
The graphical editor manages the multipage with the single A4 format paper.
If you open a new graphical logical unit, a new first page will be automatically created
then you can manage the multipage on your demand, by using the following buttons
of the lower part of the editor frame:
− Delete Page: with this command you can delete the current graphical
page
− Insert Page: with this command you can insert a new page before the
current page.
− Add Page: with this command you can add a new page after the
current page.
− Go To Page: with this command you can go to the desired page by
inserting the page number.
− Page X/Y: X corresponds to the current page number, while Y is the total
number of the pages of the logical unit.
− Page Up/Down: with this command you can move to the previous or
next page.
In the FBD pages you can freely place the blocks, while in the LADDER pages there
is an invisible grid that makes easier and faster the design of the pages using both
the mouse and the keyboard.
In the LADDER graphical pages you can insert the FBD blocks, in correspondence of
the internal nodes; while in the FBT pages you can’t insert LADDER blocks, since the
ladder blocks buttons, in the tool bar, are disabled for the FBD pages.
For a faster design of the logical unit is recommended to define first the input, out and
input and output variables (VAR) and then to program the logic. The global variables
can also be used in the logical graphical units.
To declare the variables of a graphical logical unit, PowerPLC-Bridge creates
automatically, in the variables file, a tree structure with 4 branches for the different
variables types that can be declared:
− VAR_INPUT: input variables.
− VAR_INOUT: input and output variables.
− VAR_OUTPUT: output variables.
− VAR: local variables.
By placing the mouse on a variable type or on a variable that has already been
created and by pressing the right button of the mouse, the following popup appears:
- Add Variable: with this command you can insert a new variable of the
selected type.
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- Delete Variable: with this command you can delete the variable on which
the mouse is placed.
- Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the variables
on which the mouse is placed.
To move a variable from a branch to another click on the variable and drag it the
desired branch.
To insert a block in the graphical page you can follow one of these two procedures:
− For the FBD pages: select the block from the tool bar, place the mouse
cursor in the position where you want to insert the block and double click
the mouse button. In the tool bar the block remains selected and you can
insert it again by double clicking again the mouse. To deselect the block,
choose the Move/Insert Object command from the tool bar.
− For the FBD pages: select the block from the Function/Function Block List,
place the mouse cursor on the position you want to insert the block and
double click the mouse button. In the function list, the block remains
selected and you can insert it again by double clicking again the mouse. .
To deselect the block you can select a new block in the
Function/Function Block List or in the tool bar.
− In the FBD pages you cannot insert LADDER blocks.
− For LADDER pages, first select the block to which you want to link the new
block, and then choose, from the tool bar, the block to insert. If the block
selected is a FBD type, the new block is connected at the first output of the
FBD block. To connect other blocks to the next outputs of a FBD block,
place the mouse cursor on the output, click the right button and choose the
desired option.
− For the LADDER pages select the block to which you want to link the new
block, select the FBD block from the Function/Function Block List, and then
click the Add selected FBD block button from the tool bar.
You can connect two links together by following one of these two procedures:
− Select from the Tool bar the Connect Objects tool, place the mouse
on the first object to connect and click, then place the mouse on the input
of the second block and click again. The connection in this case is straight.
To change the direction, after having clicked on the output of the first block,
move the mouse cursor in the position where the link direction must
change (from horizontal to vertical and vice versa), you can place how
many bends you need by clicking the mouse in different positions, then
click on the input of second block to realize the connection.
− By clicking the right button on the graphical page, a popup will appear,
select Link Mode, and then proceed as described before.
To connect a new variable to a block you can follow one of the next procedures:
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− Double click on the input or on the output of the block.

− Right click on the input or on the output of the block and then choose Link
Variable.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on a graphical page the following popup
appears:
− Link Mode: with this command you can pass from the connection mode to
the insert/move mode and vice versa.
− Cut: with this command cut a group of object, after having selected them
from a graphical or a text page. To insert again the object view the Paste
command.
− Copy: with this command copy a group of object, after having selected
them from a graphical or a text page. To insert again the object view the
Paste command.
− Paste: with this command, after having used the commands Edit – Copy
and Edit – Cut, you can insert the object cut or copied in the position of the
mouse cursor.
− Select all connected objects: with this command you can select all the
objects connected to the selected object.
− Insert Row: with this command you can insert a row in the graphical page,
in the position of the mouse cursor. All the objects that are under the
mouse position will be moved down.
− Insert Column: with this command you can insert a column, in the
graphical page in the position of the mouse cursor. All the objects that are
on the right of the mouse position will be moved more to the right.
− Delete Row: with this command you can delete a row from the mouse
cursor position on the graphical page. All the objects that are under the
mouse cursor position will be moved up
− Delete Column: with this command you can delete a column from the
mouse cursor position on the graphical page. All the objects that are on the
right of the mouse position will be moved to the left
− Debug
− Monitor: with this command you can view the debug for the graphical
units.
− Open Source/Variable File: with this command you can pass from the
code file (graphical or text file) to the one of the variables and vice versa.
− Locate File in Project Tree: with this command you can select the logical
unit inside the project tree.
− Close All Page: with this command you can close all the pages that are
currently open in the editor frame.
− New Edit Window: with this command you can open a new page of the
current logical unit.
− Print: with this command you can print the page currently active.
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By clicking the right button of the mouse on the inserted mouse the following popup
appears:
− Copy: with this command you can copy the block on which the cursor is
positioned. By using the Edit – Paste command, the copied block can be
inserted again.
− Cut: with this command you can cut from a graphical page the block on
which the cursor is positioned. By using the Edit – Paste command, the cut
block can be inserted again.
− Delete: with this command you can delete the block on which the cursor is
positioned. The deleted block cannot be inserted again by using the Edit –
Paste command. To do so, use the Edit – Undo command.
− Select all connected object: with this command you can select all the
objects connected to the object on which the mouse cursor is placed. By
using the Edit – Copy, Edit – Cut and Edit – Delete commands you can
respectively copy, cut and delete the selected blocks.
− Insert Row: with this command you can add a row with same height of the
ladder contact over the selected block.
− Add space right: with this command you can insert some free space at
the right of the mouse cursor position.
− Delete space right: with this command you can delete some free space at
the right of the mouse cursor position.
− Unlink: with this command you can remove the connection both to the
input and output of the block on which the mouse cursor is placed.
− Properties: with this command you can view the block properties on which
the mouse in placed. For further information about this window, if the block
is a LADDER type, see Modify/Change ladder operator, otherwise if the
block is FBD type, see Object Properties.
− Global Variable List: with this command you can select a variable from
the list of the global variables.
− Local Variable List: with this command you can select a variable from the
local variables list.
− Cross Reference: with this command you can execute the cross-reference
of the variables used in the block.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on input or output of the block the following
popup will appear:
− Negate: with this command you can negate the input or the output of the
block on which the mouse is placed.
− Link Variable: with this command you can link a new variable to the input
or to the output of the block on which the mouse is placed.
− Link Ladder Contact: with this command you can link a ladder contact to
the input or to the output of the block on which the mouse is placed.
− Link Power Rail Right: with this command you can link a Power Rail Right
block at the output of the block on which the mouse is placed.
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− Unlink: with this command you can remove the link at the input or at the
output of the block on which the mouse is placed.
By double clicking on a block you can open the block properties window. In particular:
− The Insert/Modify Variable window will appear, by double clicking on the
variable block,
− the Object Properties window, will appear by double clicking on a FBD
block.
− The Modify/Change ladder operator window will appear by double clicking
on a LADDER window.
− The Insert Comment window can be opened by double clicking on the
comment block.
− The Modify/Change window will appear by double clicking on the
connector, jump, return or label block.
In the graphical editor you can use the cursor, as the selected object, and this can be
very useful with the keyboard navigation.
To view the list of the shortcuts and the corresponding functions, see Help – Editor –
Graph Key Mapping.
When you save a graphical logical unit, all its pages are archived in one single file.
Only after having opened a graphical unit the pages, are extracted again.
If the system has been turned off before the end the compression of the pages, when
you open the graphical unit again PowerPLC-Bridge will ask if you want to over-write
the existing single pages with the ones uncompressed from the archive file. If you are
sure that the unit has been correctly saved, you may confirm the over-write of the
pages, otherwise if you are not sure that the last changes to the pages have been
saved you can cancel the over-write, verify if the changes are present in the pages
on the logical unit and then save it.
2.1.4.4 Graphical Editor in debug mode
Since the graphical code is compiled in ST, it will not be analysed at the code level. .
To use the debugger at the graphical level you must execute the Monitor of the
logical unit; in this case the system will show the values of the links and the variables.
To execute the monitor you can:
- Use the command from the toolbar
- Click the right button of the mouse and select Debug and then Monitor
- By double clicking on the list of the function block instances.
The monitor of the graphical unit is shown in the following figure:
2-43

With a right click you can edit the graphical unit.

If you open a logical unit, written in a graphical language, in debug mode, you can do
the following operations:
− View and modify the logical unit.
− View the Virtual Code Machine of the logical unit in the Disassembler page.
− Monitor the execution of the application.
− View the links and the variable values during the execution.
In the lower part of the edit window the following pages concerning the current logical
unit are shown:
− Local Variables: in this page the local variables are automatically reported
with their values if already calculated.
− Watch: the variables that have been added in watch are reported in this
page. The value of each variable in watch, is updated automatically.
− CPU Registers: In this page the virtual processor registers are shown. The
registers are:
− Current instruction.
− Frame pointer.
− Stack status.
− Interpreter status.
− System error.
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− Task type.
− Func block register.
− Module name.
For further information concerning the real time virtual machine see the
document Rtvm.
− Console: in this page are reported the strings produced by the following
functions:
− PrintChar.
− PrintNum.
− PrintString.
− PrintTime.
− PrintTimeDate.
By double clicking on the text page the, Debug option is added to the standard
options of the text editor frame. The debug will open the following popup:
− Toggle Breakpoint: with this command you can add or remove a
breakpoint on the rows indicated by a blue dot ( ) The breakpoints, for all
the tasks (Global Session), are indicated by a red dot ( ) and the
corresponding row text colour is changed into dark red. The breakpoint on
a single task is indicated by red dot with green check sign ( ) and the
corresponding row text colour is changed into red.
− Instance Toggle Breakpoint: with this command you can choose the
instance of the function block on which add or remove a breakpoint. The
breakpoint for the single instance of the function block, is inserted at the
beginning of the variables definition of the logical unit, and it is indicated by
a red dot without the green check sign ( ) and the corresponding row text
colour is changed into bordeaux.
− Run To Cursor: with this command you can continue the task execution
− Move To Cursor: with this command you can move the program counter
to the cursor position without executing any instruction. The program
counter can be moved forward or backward.
− Inspect: with this command you can view the Inspect window for the
selected variable. For further information concerning the Inspect
command, see Inspect.
− Evaluate/Modify: with this command you can view the Evaluate/Modify
window for the selected variable. For further information concerning the
Evaluate/Modify command see Evaluate/Modify.
− Add Watch at Cursor: with this command you can add to the Watch
window the selected variable.
− Follow Program Counter: with this command you can enable or disable
the program counter position visualization during the execution.
− Close Debug Session: with this command you can close the debugging
mode.
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2.1.4.4.1 Insert Comment
To open the window to insert a comment block, double click on the Insert Comment
tool
The Insert Comment window is organized as follows:
− Comment: with this command you can insert a text comment.
2.1.4.4.2 Modify/Change
To modify a connector block, a jump block, a return or a label block, double click on a
connector, jump, return or label block inserted in a graphical page, and choose the
Insert Connector, Jump, Return or Label command.
The Modify/Change window is organized as follows:
− Name: operator name.
− Operator Type: it can be one of the following:
− Connector.
− Jump.
− Return.
− Label.
2.1.4.4.3 Modify/Change ladder operator
To open the properties window of a LADDER block, right click on the block and
choose Properties.
The properties window is organized as follows:
− Ladder Operator:
− Contact: contact operator. For further information, see IEC1131-3
standard.
− Type: possible Contact operators:
− Insert left power rail.
− Insert right power rail.
− Coil: coil operator. For further information, see IEC1131-3 standard.
− Type: possible Coil operators:
− Insert open contact.
− Insert close contact.
− Insert coil.
− Insert negated coil.
− Variable: name of the variable used in the block.
− Properties: with this command you can modify or change the
variable or its properties. For further information about this
command, see Insert/Modify Variable.
2-46

2.1.4.4.4 Insert/Modify Variable
To modify a variable follow one of these procedures:

− if you want to view the properties of a variable In a LADDER page, double
click on the block of the variable, the Modify/Change ladder operator
window will appear, click on the Variable – Properties button.
− In a graphical FBD page, double click on the variable block inserted with
the tool of the tool bar.
− Variable: name of the variable. List of the existing variables. Depending on
the Scope selected, the list of the global or local variables will be shown.
− Scope: the usage of the variable can be:
− Local: in the Variable field is reported list of the local variables.
− Global: in the Variable field is reported list of the global variables.
− Property: with this command you can view the variable properties. For
further information about the variable properties, see Properties Variable.
You can also change the variable type by choosing:
− Global Variable List: with this command you can select a variable from
the list of the global variables.
− Local Variable List: with this command you can select a variable from the
list of the local variables.
2.1.4.4.5 Properties Variable
To see the properties of a variable, click on the Property button from the
Insert/Modify Variable window.
This window is organized as follows:
− Usage: variable usage (scope). List of possible values.
− AT (Address): link a variable directly to a definite address. For further
information about the definite address of a variable, see the IEC 1131-3
Standard.
− Data Type: variable data type. List of possible values. A variable can be
either a defined type or a user-defined type.
− Initial Value: initial value of the variable.
− Retain: Retain variable flag. Default value: false. A retain variable will not
be re-initialised in case of “worm restart”. In case of “cold restart” the value
will be reset to the initial value.
2.1.4.4.6 Object Properties
To see the FBD block properties, right click on the block and Properties.
The properties window is organized as follows:
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− Name: name of the block. To see the list of the FBD blocks, see the
IEC1131-3 Standard.
− Type: block type, the block types are:
− Function.
− Function Block.
− Formal Parameters: this is a table with row for each block parameter
reporting the following information:
− Name: parameters name.
− Type: parameter type. The parameter types are:
− VAR_INPUT.
− VAR_OUTPUT.
− VAR_INOUT.
− Data type: parameter data type. The parameter type can be one of
those defined by the IEC1131-3 Standard or one of those defined by
the user in Data Types.
− Configurations Parameters:
− View additional EN/ENO input/output: flag for the power line
activation, with this option you can use a FBD block in a LADDER
section.
− Height: block height in pixels.
2.1.5Status bar
The status bar is always visible in the lower part of the screen and contains the
− The icon shows the status of the connection with the control system; the
status can be:
− Control not connected.
− and alternated. Control connected to the PC.
− Name and address of the control.
− Name of the application on the control.
− Led that shows the status of the application on the control:
− and alternated. Application on the control is running.
− Application on the control is halted
− If the control is connected: status of the servers on the control. The servers
are the following:
− Available and configured servers.
You can view the servers name and their status placing the mouse cursor on
the icon.
− Row: Column of the cursor in the text editor
− Project modification status.
− Current password level.
− Percentage estimation of the control CPU free time.
− Messages:
2-48

− Substitution in progress: the Debug – Download Program – On Line

Changes command is running, PowerPLC Bridge is waiting the
controller to conclude the substitution operation.
2-49

2-50

3 Project
To expand or close the tree structure project, click on Project.
The Project node contains the project organized by the following nodes:
− Global Variables: global variables of the project.
− Data: user defined data types.
− Logical Units: logical units of the project.
− Libraries: system libraries and libraries associate to the project servers.
− Keywords: ST language keywords
− Tasks: project task configuration.
− System Configuration: project configuration:
− Memories: configuration of the different project memory types.
− Servers: project servers configuration.
The project tree structure is organized in many nodes and folders; each one has
specific popup menu that will be describe later. If you are a user with Administrator
privileges, you will find in all the popup menus the Attributes command. With this
command you can set the access level to all the other functionalities, except for the
Attributes and the System Configuration node. The Attributes command from the
popup of the System Configuration node allows setting the access level to all the
functionalities of its sub nodes.
The application is defined by the project. When you create a new project, PowerPLC-
Bridge set automatically the default task that is executed in background, in free –
running, at the lower priority. One or more programs can be associated to each task.
The order of execution of the different programs depends on their order inside the
programs instances list of the task. A program is a logical unit with the same
properties of a function block, but it can contain function block and function.
A function is a logical unit with one or more inputs but only one output (simplex or
complex/structured). When the function execution ends any internal value is kept in
the memory. If an instance to a function is executed twice with the same input
parameters, the function gives the same output both the times.
A function block is a logical unit with one or more input and one or more outputs.
When a function block execution ends, one or more internal values are kept in the
memory. If an instance to a function block is executed twice with the same input
parameters, the function block may give different outputs each time.
A program is a logical unit similar to a function block, but while the former can be
associated to the tasks the later cannot.
To see the exact definition for function, function block and program see the IEC
1131-3 Standard.
3-1
Chapter 3: Project
3.1 Attributes
To set the access levels to the different commands, select Attributes from the popup
that can be opened from each project window. The Attributes command is enabled
only if you have the Administrator privileges
By selecting Attributes you can open the Folder Properties window, organized in
different pages:
− Rights:
− Visible: this attribute set the access level to the visibility of the selected
folder and of all its sub nodes. The folder and its sub nodes will not be
visible to the users with access lever lower then the one set.
− Opening: with this option you can set the selectibility of the folder and
of its sub nodes. The users with an access level lower then the one set,
see the folder marked by , they cannot view the code of the unit but
they can select and recall it from the code.
− Modify: this attribute set the access level to modify the folder and its
sub nodes. A user with an access level lower then the one selected, will
see the folder with this symbol: , and they will not be able to modify
the folder or its sub nodes.
− Build: this attribute set the access level to compile the folder and its
nodes. This attribute is present only for the logical unit folders. The
users with an access level lower of the one selected will see the folder
with this symbol and they will not be able to compile any of its sub
nodes.
− SubFolder Rights Inheritance: if this option is enabled when you
reduce the access level to an object, the change will affect all the sub
folders. If this option is disabled the change will not affect the subfolders
that will kip the original access level.
− Settings: this window appears only for the logical unit folders.
− Multiple Instance: with this option you can set the multiple instances
options of the sub nodes of the selected folder. This option is visible
only for the logical units folders. If this option is selected, PowerPLC-
Bridge identifies the logical unit not only with its name, but also with the
“folder name. logical unit name”. For example if the folder name is
“Alarm” and the logical unit name is “chkfun_emergency”, PowerPLC-
Bridge refers to the logical unit with name “Alarm.chkfun_emergency”.
Only the logical units that belongs to the same folder can identify a
logical unit using only its name. For this reason you can have more than
one logical unit with the same name. Moreover in the popup menus of
the folders of the multi instances logical units the Duplicate Instances
command is present. With this command you can duplicate the folders
with all its sub nodes.
− Enable Translation: it enables name translation for the folder and for
all its nodes
3-2
Chapter 3: Project
− Name for Translation: it defines the english name for the folder with
the needed infos to avoid ambiguities
The System Configuration node represents the only exception for the folders
containing the Attributes option in the popup menu. In fact for this node the
Attributes option allows to set the access level to the functionalities of all the sub
nodes.
3.2 Global Variables
To expand or close the files list of the project global variables, click on Project –
Global Variables.
The Global Variables node contains the files of the project global variables:
− Repository: global variables repository.
− Global Variables Files: the files containing the global variables
declarations.
The global variables can be declared from the Repository, i.e. from the global
variables management window, or they can be declared in the global variables files.
The global variables are automatically imported in the Repository during the
compilation, i.e. by clicking on Project – Make or Project – Build.
To view the declaration of the global variables, double click on one of files of the
global variables . The global variables page will be edited in the editor frame; this
is a file with the same name of the node and gvd as extension.
The global variables files are grouped in folders.
To move a global variables file or a folder of global variables files, from one folder to
another, click on the node of the object to move, and by keeping pressed the button
drag the object on the destination folder, then release the button.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the node Project – Global Variables the
following popup appears:
− New: with this command you can create a new global variables file.
− New Folder: with this command you can create a new folder for the global
variables files.
− Import: with this command you can import a global variables file that has
already been created.
− Import Folder: with this command you can import a folder, that has already
be created, containing the global variables files.
− Reimport Folder: with this command you can import a folder, that has
already be created, containing the global variables files. Before this
operation, if the folder already exists, it is emptied.
− Expand All: with this command you can expand all the sub nodes of the
selected node.
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Chapter 3: Project
− Collapse All: with this command you can close all the sub nodes of the
selected node.
− Sort: sort all the subnodes.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the node of a folder of global variables
files the following popup appears:
− New: with this command you can create a new global variables file.
− New Folder: with this command you can create a new folder for the global
variables files.
− Import: with this command you can import a global variables file that has
already been created.
− Import Folder: with this command you can import a folder, that has already
be created, containing the global variables files.
− Reimport Folder: with this command you can import a folder, that has
already be created, containing the global variables files. Before this
operation, if the folder already exists, it is emptied.
− Remove From Project: with this command you can remove from the project
the global variable files within the selected folder.
− Delete: with this command you can remove from the project the global
variable files within the selected folder and delete the associated .gvd files.
− Rename: with this command you can rename the folder of the selected
node.
selected node.
selected node.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the node of a global variables file the
the selected global variable file.
− Delete: with this command you can remove from the project the selected
global variable file and delete the associated .gvd file.
− Rename: with this command you can rename the selected node.
3.2.1 New
To create a new global variables file, click with the right button of the mouse on
Project – Global Variables and select New.
Choose a name for the global variables file and click OK to save the file or Cancel to
cancel the operation.
The global variables file is added at the bottom of the global variables file list.
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Chapter 3: Project
For further information about the management of the global variables files, see
Global Variables Files.
3.2.2 New Folder

To create a new folder of global variables files, click with the right button of the
mouse on Project – Global Variables and select New Folder.
Choose a name for the folder of global variables files and click OK to create the
folder or Cancel to cancel the operation
The folder is added at the bottom of the list containing the folders of the global
variables files.
3.2.3 Import
To import a global variable file, already created, inside the project, click with the right
button of the mouse on Project – Global Variables and choose Import.
Select the file with gvd extension that you wish to import and press OK to import the
file in the project or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The global variables file is added at the bottom of the list of the global variables files.
To move a global variable file or a folder of global variables files, from one folder to
another click on the node of the object you wish to move and by keeping pressed the
button drag the object to the destination folder, then release the button.
For further information about the management of the global variables files, see
Global Variables Files.
3.2.4 Import Folder

To import in the project an existing folder of global variables files, right click on
Project – Global Variables snd select Import Folder.
Select the folder you wish to import and Ok to copy it in the project or Cancel to
The folder is added to the bottom of the list of folders of global variables files.
3-5
Chapter 3: Project
To move a global variable file or a folder of global variables files, from one folder to
another click on the node of the object you wish to move and by keeping pressed the
button drag the object to the destination folder, then release the button.
3.2.5 Reimport Folder

To import in the project an existing folder of global variables files, deleting the folder
with the same name already existing right click on Project – Global Variables
and select Reimport Folder.
3.2.6 Global Variables Files

To each global variables file is associated a node with the same name .
The global variables files can grouped in folders. For further information about the
folders of global variables files, see Project – Global Variables.
Each row of a file correspond to a global variable declaration.
Each variable is defined using the Structured Text Language syntax. Optionally the
ST definition is followed by keywords that define the global variable characteristics.
Keywords order is not important.
For example :
IxG01_Emergency_Signal : BOOL
COMMENT 'SI01-109]G01_Console_NoEmergency_Signal'
REMOTEACCESSDEF ‘192.101.32.88’, 50
NAMEFORTRANSLATION ‘xx’
EXPORT ‘rw’ ;
Keywords description :
COMMENT followed by a string associates a comment to the global variable. This
comment will be displayed bye the developement system and is downloaded to the
target that can use it.
REMOTEACCESSDEF is used when the variable is not local tot h control but it
resides on another control connected using UDP/IP protocol. The stringi s the IP
address of the remote control and the number is the polling period in milliseconds.
NAMEFORTRANSLATION the following string is a help to translate correctly from

english to another language when english can be ambigous.
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Chapter 3: Project
EXPORT this keyword says that the variable can be viewed by supervisors and the
following string set the accessing way to the variable (‘r’ for read-only mode ‘rw’ for
read-write mode)
All the global variables declared in the global variables files are automatically
imported in the Global Variables window during the compilation, i.e. by choosing
Project – Make and Project – Build. If during the compilation, a variable is found to
be already declared in the Global Variables window, the user is required to choose
to overwrite or not with the new declaration; moreover if in the file a declaration error
is detected, this error will be signaled like all the other compilation errors.
The variables declared in the global variables files can be modified or deleted only
from the files in which they have been declared and not from the Global Variables
window. For further information on the Global Variables see Global Variables -
Repository.
3.2.6.1 Remove From Project

To remove a global variables file from a project, click with the right button of the
mouse on the global variables file and choose Remove From Project. Confirm by
clicking Yes to remove the global variables file from the project or choose No to
With this operation the file will be removed from the global variables files list; the user
must verify that any reference to the global variables declared in the file to remove is
still present in the project.
The global variables file will not be deleted, and can be easily reinserted in the
project; to do so see Global Variables Files – Import.
To remove a global variables file from the project and to delete it also see Global
Variables Files – Delete.
3.2.6.2 Delete
To remove a global variables file from the project and to delete it also, click the right
button of the mouse on the global variables file and choose Delete. Confirm by
clicking Yes to remove the file or choose No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the file will be deleted from the global variables files list; the user
must verify that any reference to the global variables declared in the file to remove is
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Chapter 3: Project
3.2.6.3 Rename
To rename a global variables file, click with the right button of the mouse on the
global variable file and choose Rename.
Edit the new name for the global variables file and choose Ok to confirm or Cancel to
3.2.7 Global Variables - Repository

To open the global variables management window, double click on Project –
Global Variables – Repository.
The global variables management window contains three distinct logical parts:
− Upper part: command zone. There is a button for each command. The
buttons are the followings:
− Add: with this command you can add and/or modify a global variable.
− Modify: with this command you can modify the selected global variable.
− Delete: with this command you can delete one or more variables.
− Delete All: with this command you can delete all the global variables.
− Import: with this command you can import the global variables from a
file.
− Export: with this command you can export the global variable to a file.
− Central part: the list of existing global variables. For each global variables
the following information are reported:
− Name: global variables name. Before the name you may find this icon
. It means that the variable has been automatically imported, i.e. the
variable has been declared in a variable file and cannot be modified or
cancelled by this management window, but only inside the file where it
has been declared.
− AT (Address): a global variable definite address, inside the system
locatable memory.
− Data Type: variable data type. List of possible values.
− Initial Value: initial value of the variable.
− Export: export way to SCADA programs.
− Lower part:
− Hardware: tree structure of the project hardware configuration, for a
rapid management of the I/O global variables. To open the editor
window of the global variables of an I/O board, double click on the
board. For further information concerning the editor window of the
board symbols see Editor global variables board.
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Chapter 3: Project
3.2.7.1 Add
To add a global variable, click on the Add button from the Global Variables window.
Set the global variables properties and press Add to save the variable configuration
or press to cancel the operation.
The properties of a global variable are the followings:
− Variable: global variable name. List of the existing global variable.
− Usage: VAR_GLOBAL. This properties can be seen but not be edited. It
shows the global variable scope.
− AT (Address): global variable definite address inside the Builtin Memory.
To see further information about the AT (Address) syntax see the IEC
1131-3 Standard. List of possible addresses.
If you leave this field unfilled, the variable will be allocated from the Tasks
module and will not be accessible from outside.
− Data Type: global variable data type. List of possible values. A global
variable can be a predefined type or a user defined type.
− Initial Value: global variable initial value.
− Export mode: it defines the exporting way for the variable to SCADA
programs. Theis way can be none/read/read-write.
− Comment: global variable comment.
3.2.7.2 Modify
To modify a global variable, select the variable from the global variables list of the
Global Variables window and click on Modify.
Modify the global variable properties and choose Modify to save the variable
configuration or press to cancel the operation.
The properties of a global variables are the followings:
− Variable: global variable name. List of the existing global variable.
− Usage: VAR_GLOBAL. This properties can be seen but not be edited. It
shows the global variable scope.
− AT (Address): global variable definite address inside the Builtin Memory.
To see further information about the AT (Address) syntax see the IEC
1131-3 Standard. List of possible addresses.
If you leave this field unfilled, the variable will be allocated from the Tasks
module and will not be accessible from outside.
− Data Type: global variable data type. List of possible values. A global
variable can be a predefined type or a user defined type.
− Initial Value: global variable initial value.
− Export mode: it defines the exporting way for the variable to SCADA
programs. Theis way can be none/read/read-write.
− Comment: global variable comment.
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The variables that have been automatically imported are signalled by this icon
placed before the name. These variables cannot be modified from the Global
Variables window. To modify these variables you must act on the global variable file
in which the variables have been declared.
3.2.7.3 Delete
To delete one or more global variables, first select the variable to delete from the
existing variables list then click on Delete in the Global Variables window.
With this operation the file will be deleted from the global variables files list; the user
must verify that any reference to the global variables removed is still present in the
project.
The variables that have been automatically imported and are signalled by this icon
cannot be deleted from the Global Variables window. To modify these variables you
must act on the global variable file in which the variables have been declared.
3.2.7.4 Delete All
To delete all the global variable, click on Delete All from the Global Variables
window and choose Yes to confirm or No to cancel the operation.
This operation deletes only the instances to the global variables; the user must verify
that any reference to the global variables removed is still present in the project.
The variables that have been automatically imported and are signalled by this icon
cannot be deleted from the Global Variables window. To modify these variables you
must act on the global variable file in which the variables have been declared.
3.2.7.5 Import
To import the global variables from a file, click on Import from the Global Variables
window, chose the file with .ImpExpGVar extension that contains the variables and
choose Open to proceed or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The file may have been created by exporting the global variables or may have been
edited with a text editor respecting the following format:
− A row for each variable with the following information separated by
commas:
− Variable name.
− Variable definite address.
− Variable data type.
− Empty field to assure the compatibility with the previous versions.
− Variable initial value.
− Comment to the variable in brackets. For example “Comment to
variable 1”.
− Automatically imported variable flag.
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Chapter 3: Project
Here an example::
StartMovement,%IX2,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
AbortButton,%IX3,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
di04,%IX4,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
di05,%IX5,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
do01,%QX1,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
White,%QX9,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
Blu,%QX12,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
StartButton,%IX1,"BOOL",,0,"",0,1
AxStr,%MB17001,"MultiMemoryAxis",,0,"",0,553920
Leds,,"ARRAY [0..3] OF BOOL",,0,"",0,4
LedsStatus,,"ARRAY [0..3] OF BOOL",,0,"",0,4
3.2.7.6 Export
To export the global variables in a file, click on Export from the Global Variables
window, choose the file in which the variables must be exported and choose Save to
proceed or Cancel to cancel the operation.
For further information on the variable export format for the .ImpExpGVar extension
files see Global Variables – Import.
3.2.7.7 I/O Editor global variables

To open the I/O editor of the global variables associated to the board resources click
on the board from the Global Variables window.
In the window for the management of the board global variables, there is a page for
each I/O resource on the board; the I/O types on a hardware configuration board can
be the followings:
− Digital input.
− Digital output.
− Analog input.
− Analog output.
Each page contains a table to insert the global variables; the table has a row for each
input or output of the board and the following columns:
− Number: progressive number of the board input or output. Not editable.
− AT (Address): definite address of the board input or output. Not editable.
For further information about the definite address syntax see the IEC 1131-
3 Standard.
− Name: global variable name.
− Comment: comment to the global variable.
Choose OK to save the global variables of the board or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
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When you exit the global variables editor of a board, the list of the project global
variables is automatically updated.
3.3 Data
To expand or close the project data list, click on Project – Data.
The Data node encloses all the files containing the definitions of types and constants.
All the logical units must know these definitions:
− Data Types: the file containing the definitions of types and constants
defined by the user.
To view the file containing the data types, double click on the file name. This file has
the .Typ extension and will be edited in the editor frame, it contains the user-defined
types and definitions .
The files containing types or constants definitions can be grouped in folders.
To move a file or a folder of user data, click on the node of the object to move, by
keeping pressed the mouse button drag the object to the destination folder, then
release the button.
By right clicking on the node Project – Data or on the node of a user data types
folder, the following popup appears:
− New: with this command you can crate a new file containing the definitions
of types and constant defined by the user.
− New Folder: with this command you can create a new folder to group this
kind of files.
− Import: with this command you can import an existing file containing the
definitions of types and constant defined by the user.
− Import Folder: with this command you can import an existing folder
containing the user defined data types.
selected node.
selected node.
− Sort: with this command you can order alphabetoically the data files and
folders.
By right clicking on the file containing the definitions of types and constants define by
the user, the following popup appears:
the file corresponding to the selected node.
− Delete: with this command you can remove from the project the file
corresponding to the selected node and delete the .TYP extension file.
− Rename: with this command you can rename the file corresponding to the
selected node.
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− Clone: it enables the progranner to create a copy of the selected data type
file with another name.
3.3.1 New
To create a new file containing the user defined data types and constants, right click
on Project – Data and choose New.
Edit the file name and choose OK to create it or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The new file will be added at the bottom of the list of the files containing the user
defined data types and constants.
To move this kind of file or a folder of files from one folder to another, click on the
node of the object to move and by keeping pressed the button, drag it to the
destination folder, then release the button.
For further information about the user defined data types management, see Data
Types.
3.3.2 New Folder

To create a new user defined data types folder, right click on Project – Data and
choose New Folder.
Edit the folder name and choose OK to create the folder or Cancel to cancel the
operation. The new folder will be added at the bottom of the user defined data
folders.
To move a user defined data type or a folder of user defined data types, from one
folder to another, click on the node of the object to move and by keeping pressed the
button, drag it to the destination folder, then release the button.
3.3.3 Import
To import an existing user defined data type, in the project, right click on Project
– Data and choose Import.
Select the file with .Typ extension, containing the user defined types and constants,
that you wish to import and choose OK to import the file in the project or Cancel to
The file will be added at the bottom of the list of the files containing the user defined
data types definitions.
folder to another click on the node of the object to move and by keeping pressed the
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For further information about the user defined data types management, see Data
Types.
3.3.4 Import Folder

To import in the project, an existing user-defined data types folder, right click on
Project – Data and choose Import Folder.
Select the desired folder and choose Ok to import it or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
The folder will be added at the bottom of the user defined data folders.
folder to another click on the node of the object to move and by keeping pressed the
3.3.5 Data Types

To each file containing types or constants definitions, is associated a node with the
same name .
By right clicking on the file node the following popup appears:
the file corresponding to the node.
− Delete: with this command you can remove from the project the file
corresponding to the node and delete the associated .TYP extension file.
− Rename: with this command you can rename the file corresponding to the
node.
− Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the file
corresponding to the node.
The files containing types and constants definitions can be grouped in folders. For
further information about the data types folders see Project – Data.

To remove a file containing types or constants definitions from a project, right click on
the file name and choose Remove From Project. Confirm Yes to remove the file
or No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the file will be removed from the project; the user must verify that
any reference to types and constants, defined in the file to remove, is still present in
the project.
The file is not deleted, it is quite simple to reinsert the file in the project; to do so, see
Project – Data – Import.
To remove a file containing types or constants definitions from the project and delete
it see Project – Data – Delete.
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3.3.5.2 Delete
To delete the .TYP extension file associated to a data type, right click on the data
type and choose Delete. Confirm Yes to delete the data type No to cancel the
operation.
With this operation the file containing the data types and constants definitions will be
deleted from the disk. The user must verify that any reference to types and
constants, defined in the file to remove, is still present in the project.
3.3.5.3 Rename
To rename a file containing the definitions of data types or constants, right click on
the file name and select Rename.
Edit the new data type name and choose Ok to continue or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
3.3.5.4 Properties
To view the properties of a user defined data type, right click on the user defined data
type and choose Properties.
The user defined data type properties can be the followings:
− Name: user defined data type name.
− Type: Data Types. Not editable.
For further information about the user defined data type management, see Data
Types.
3.4 Logical Units

To expand or close the list of the logical units of the project, click on Project –
Logical units.
To each logical unit is associated a node with the same name.
There are different logical units types:
− Program.
− Function.
− Function block.
For further information about the properties of the program, the function and the
function block see the IEC 1131-3 IEC 1131-3.
The logical units can be grouped in folders.
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To move a logical unit or a folder of logical units from one folder to another, click on
the node of the object to move and by keeping pressed the button, drag it to the
By right clicking the mouse on the node Project – Logical units, or on a logical
units folder node, the following popup appears:
− New: with this command you can create a new logical unit.
− New Folder: with this command you can create a new logical units folder.
− Import: with this command you can import in the project a logical unit.
− Import Folder: with this command you can import in the project a folder of
logical units.
− Reimport Folder: with this command you can import in the project a folder
of logical units, but, first, the folder with the same name and all its contents
are destroyed
selected node.
selected node.
− Sort: it sorts all the logical units within the selected tree node.
By right clicking on the node of a logical unit the following popup appears:
the logical unit corresponding to the selected node.
− Delete: with this command you can remove from the project the logical unit
corresponding to the selected node and delete its associated files.
− Rename: with this command you can rename the logical unit
corresponding to the selected node.
− Clone: with this command you can clone the logical unit with another
name.
− Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the logical
unit corresponding to the selected node.
By double clicking on the node corresponding to a logical unit, the associate file
containing the logical unit code will be edited in the editor frame.
For general information the logical structure of a project see Project.
3.4.1 New
To create a new logical unit, right click on Project – Logical Units and choose
New.
Set the logical unit properties (name, type, programming language, return value) and
OK to save the logical unit configuration or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The new logical unit will be added at the bottom of the logical units list.
To move a logical unit or a logical units folder from one folder to another, click on the
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For further information about the logical unit properties see Logical Unit – Properties
while to have some information about the logical unit management see Logical Units.
3.4.2 New Folder

To crate a new folder for the logical units, right click on Project – Logical Units
and choose New Folder.
Set the name for the folder and press Ok to create the new folder or Cancel to
The new folder is added at the bottom of the logical units folders list.
3.4.3 Import
To import a logical unit in the project, right click on Project – Logical Units and
choose Import.
Select the .StT extension file containing the definition of the logical unit that you want
to import, and press OK to import it in the project Cancel to cancel the operation.
The logical unit will be added to the bottom of the logical units list.
For further information about the logical unit properties see Logical Unit – Properties
while to have some information about the logical unit management see Logical Units.
3.4.4 Import Folder

To import in the project a folder of logical units, right click on Project – Logical
Units and select Import Folder.
Select the folder to import and press OK to import it or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
The imported folder will be added at the bottom of the logical units folders list.
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Like the previous pop menu entry, but, the folder with the same name and its
contents within the local project will be first deleted.
3.4.6 Remove From Project

To remove a logical unit from the project, right click on the logical unit and choose
Remove From Project. Press Yes to remove the logical unit from the project or No
to cancel the operation.
With this command the logical unit will be removed; the user must verify that any
reference to logical unit to remove, is still present in the project.
The files that contains the logical unit will not be deleted, therefore it is easy to re-
insert the logical unit again; to do so, see Logical Units - Import.
To remove a logical unit from the project and delete the associated file, see Logical
Units – Delete.
3.4.7 Delete
To remove a logical unit from the project and delete the associated file, right click on
the logical unit and choose Delete. Press Yes to delete the logical unit from the
project or No to cancel the operation.
With this command the logical unit will be removed and the associated file will be
deleted; the user must verify that any reference to logical unit to remove, is still
present in the project.
To remove a logical unit from the project without deleting the associated file, see
Logical Units – Remove From Project.
3.4.8 Rename
To rename the logical unit, right click on the corresponding node and select Rename.
Edit the new name for the logical unit and choose Ok to remain the logical unit or
Cancel to cancel the operation.
3.4.9 Properties
To view the properties of a logical unit, right click on the corresponding node and
select Properties.
The properties of a logical unit are the followings:
− Name: logical unit name.
− Type: logical unit type. The possible types are:
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− Function: see the IEC 1131-3 Standard.

− Function block: see the IEC 1131-3 Standard.
− Program: see the IEC 1131-3 Standard.
− Worksheet: not implemented.
− Action: not implemented.
− Transation: not implemented.
− Language: the programming language of the logical unit. The possible
languages are:
− ST: (structured text) alphanumeric language, similar to Pascal.
− FBD: (function block diagram) graphically oriented programming
language, networks made of blocks and contacts.
− LD: Ladder graphically oriented programming language, which
approaches the structure of an electric circuit.
− IL: Instruction List; alphanumeric language.
− Function return type: return value type. A list with the possible values.
For further information about the management of the logical unit, see Logical Units.
3.5 Libraries
To expand or close the list of the libraries of the project configuration, click on
Libraries.
The node Libraries enclose the list of the system libraries of the project.
In this node are shown all the function and function block available for the application,
provided by the system servers. Some servers are always present, others can be
added and configured. The function provided by a server can be seen only if the
server is present and enabled.
The system libraries associated to the built-in server always present are the
followings:
− System: system function and function block concerning special functions of
the virtual processor IEC1131. Within the system functions there are those
provided for the standard, that are described in the Standard IEC 1131-3 and
those special for PowerPLC-Bridge, that are described in the document
Extensions.
− Inputs Outputs: these are special functionalities concerning the IO. The
functions to manage the IO are part of the standard extension and are
described in the document Inputs Outputs.
− Rtvm : these are functions that are made available by the real time virtual
machine
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Chapter 3: Project
To insert a function or function block in a page, click on the name of the object you
want to insert, place the mouse cursor in the position inside the page where you want
to insert the object.
By double clicking on the node corresponding to a function or a function block, you

can open the Object Properties window. This window shows the following
information:
− Name: function or function block name.
− Type: it can be a function or a function block.
− Formal Parameters: for each parameter of the function or of the function
block the following information are reported:
− Name: parameter name.
− Type: it can be VAR_INPUT or VAR_OUTPUT.
− Data type: parameter data type.
3.6 Tasks
To expand or close the list of tasks in the project configuration, click on Tasks.
The Tasks node enclose the configuration of the project task.
The task can be grouped in folders.
To move a task or a tasks folder from one folder to another click on the node of the
object to move and by keeping pressed the button, drag it to the destination folder,
then release the button.
By right clicking on the node Tasks, or on the node of a tasks folder the following
popup appears:
− New: with this command you can create a new task.
− New Folder: with this command you can crate a new folder for the tasks.
− Import: with this command you can import in the project an existing task.
− Import Folder: with this command you can import in the project an existing
folder of tasks.
− Reimport Folder: like the previous command but, first, it deletes the folder
with the same name and its contents.
selected node.
selected node.
− Sort: it sorts th task names.
By right clicking on a task node the following popup appears:
− Add Instance: with this command you can add a program instance to the
task associated to the node. The programs will be executed sequentially
from the task.
− Remove From Project: with this command you can remove a task from the
project.
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− Delete: with this command you can remove the task from the project and
delete the associated files.
− Rename: with this command you can rename a task.
− Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the task,
associated to the selected node.
By right clicking on a program instance node the following popup appears:
− Delete: with this command you can remove from the task the instance
− Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the instance
3.6.1 New
To create a new task, right click on Tasks and select New.
Set the task properties and press OK to save the task configuration or Cancel to
The task is added at the bottom of the tasks.
To move a task or a tasks folder from a folder to another, click on the node of the
For further information about the task properties see Task – Properties.
3.6.2 New Folder

To create a new tasks folder, right click on Tasks and select New Folder.
Edit the folder name and choose OK to create the new tasks folder or Cancel to
The tasks folder is added at the bottom of the tasks folders list.
3.6.3 Import
To import an existing task in the project, right click on Tasks and choose Import.
Select the file with .tsk extension to import, containing the task definition, and press
OK to import the file in the project or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The file will be added at the bottom of the tasks list.
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For further information about the task properties see Task – Properties.
3.6.4 Import Folder

To import an existing tasks folder, right click on Tasks and choose Import Folder.
Select the folder to import and press OK to import he folder in the project or Cancel
The folder will be added at the bottom of the tasks folders list.

Like the preevious menu entry, but, first, the folder and its contents are deleted
3.6.5.1 Add Instance
To add a program instance to a task, right click on the task and choose Add
Instance.
Set the instance properties and press OK to save the new instance configuration or
The instance will be added at the bottom of the instances list of the task.
For further information concerning the program instance properties, see Instance
Properties.
To remove a task from a project, right click on the task and choose Remove
From Project. Confirm Yes to remove the task from the project or No to cancel the
operation.
With this operation the task will be removed from the project; the user must verify that
any reference to task to remove, is still present in the project.
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3.6.5.3 Delete
To remove a task from project and delete the associated files, right click on the task
and choose Delete. Confirm Yes to remove the task and delete the associate
files or No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the task will be removed from the project and the associated files
will be deleted; the user must verify that any reference to task to remove, is still
present in the project.
3.6.5.4 Rename
To rename a task, right click on the task and choose Rename.

Edit the new task name and press Ok to rename the task or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
3.6.5.5 Properties
To view the task properties, right click on the task and select Properties.
The task properties are:
− Name: task name.
− Settings:
− Type: which condition will trigger the start of the task. List with the
possible types:
− Cyclic: start condition defined by a cyclic time.
− Event: start condition defined by an event.
− Free Running: always active with an inner wait instruction..
− Depending on the task type:
− For the Cyclic tasks: Interval (ms). Time interval between the task
execution.
− For the Event tasks: Variable (event): variable which will trigger the
task.
− Stack Size: task stack size. Default value: 16380 bytes.
− Priority: Task execution priority; A task with priority 0 has the maximum
priority. Default value: 27.
3.6.5.5.1 Remove From Project
To remove an program instance, right click on the instance and choose Remove
From Project.
Confirm Yes to remove the program instance or No to cancel the operation.
This operation will remove the program instance from the project; the user must verify
that any reference to instance to remove, is still present in the project.
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3.6.5.5.2 Properties
To view the program instance properties, right click on the instance and choose
Properties.
The properties of a program instance are the followings:
− Program Instance: program instance name.
− Program Type: name of the instanced programs. A list with the existing
programs.
3.7 System Configuration

The sub nodes of the System Configuration are the followings:
− Memories: different memories types of the project.
− Servers: project servers configuration.
By right clicking on the node System Configuration the following popup appears:
− Simulate All: with this command you can simulate the entire configuration
management: memories, hardware, axes etc.
selected node.
selected node.
3.7.1 Memories
Inside this node, you can find all the locatable memories with a definite address,
defined for the project.
The sub node Not Retain is inserted by default and you can use it to manage the
non retain memory. This is the normal dynamic memory of the PC, seen as shared
memory locatable from the operational system. To define this type of memory you
mast insert the following data:
− Displacement (bytes): definite address in bytes of the not retain memory
base. Default value 0.
− Size (bytes): not retain memory dimension in bytes. Default value: 16000.
A memory entry is automatically inserted when ever the associated server is added
to the project. Each system servers provides to the application program a structured
shared memory, accessible with a definite address. The memory size is defined by
the server configuration. The following data define this type of memory:
− Displacement (bytes): server memory position, in bytes. By default it is
automatically calculated, depending on the amount of memory already used,
by adding an offset of 1000000 bytes for each configured server.
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By right clicking on the project node Memories the following popup appears:
− New:
− Retain: with this command you can open the retain memory
management. The following data must be inserted to define this memory:
− Displacement (bytes): retain memory definite address in bytes. By
default it is automatically calculated, depending on the amount of
memory already used, by adding an offset of 1000000 bytes.
− Size (bytes): retain shared memory size, in bytes. Default value: 0.
− Appl Msg Size (bytes):memory size, in bytes, reserved for the
circular buffer of the Application Messages.
− Board Type: retain memory board type. The memory types
supported are the followings:
− AX2000 e ISARAM: temporary RAM board. For this memory the
following settings are needed:
− Address: board address for the retain memory management.
− COLIBRI: memory management for Colibri Toradex systems
− FILE: retain memory management on a file. For this memory the
following settings are needed:
− Store Time (ms): storing frequency in milliseconds to save
the retain memory on a file.
− File: with this command you can open the file static memory
management. You can have only one file static memory. This kind of
memory is updated by calling the FlushFileMem function; for further
information see the FlushFileMem section in the Extensions document.
You need the following data to define this kind of memory:
− Displacement (bytes): file memory definite address in bytes. By
default it is automatically calculated, depending on the amount of
− Size (bytes): shared memory size on the file, expressed in bytes.
Default value: 0.
− Shared: with this command you can open the shared memory
management allowing the access to the memory by external applications
throw the memory name. You can define more the one shared memory..
You need the following data to define this kind of memory::
− Displacement (bytes): shared memory definite address in bytes.
By default it is automatically calculated, depending on the amount of
− Size (bytes): shared memory size on the file, expressed in bytes.
Default value: 0.
− Name: memory name throw which the external applications can
access to the memory.
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If you find this icon beside the memory sub node, it means that the
memory is disabled.
− Expand All: with this command you can expand all the sub node of the
selected node.
selected node.
3.7.2 Servers
This node contains all the project servers.
The standard configuration of the systems contains the following servers:
− Inputs Outputs: I/O management server.
− Virtual Processor: virtual machine management server.
Sub nodes can be added also to the user server.

By pressing the right button of the mouse on the node Servers the following
popup appears:
− New: with this command you can add a new server to the system
configuration. There is another selection between true server and dynamic link
that is a link to a server type from the point of view of the functions. If the
programmer choose Server, the Add Server window appears as follows:
− Available Server: list of the available servers.
− New: with this command you can add a new server. In the External
Server Configuration window you can set the properties for the new
server.
− Modify: with this command you can modify the properties of the
selected server. In the External Server Configuration you can view and
modify the properties of the selected server.
− Delete: with this command you can delete the selected server.
− Ok: with this command you can add the selected server to the system
configuration.
− Cancel: with this command you can cancel the operation.
selected node.
selected node.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the sub nodes of the existing servers
the following popup appears:
− Delete: with this command you can delete the server associated to the
selected node. This command is enabled for the default configuration servers.
− Properties – Server Parameters: with this command you may open the
External Server Configuration reporting the server properties.
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− Properties – Functions Prototypes: with this command you can open a

popup showing the .#syspro file name of the server. By selecting the .#syspro
file you can open the file containing the server functions prototypes.
− Properties – Functions Definition: with this command you can open the
Function Names window containing the list of functions provided by the
server.
By pressing the F1 key, while a server is selected, you can open the document
associated to the server.
3.7.2.1 External Server Configuration

To open the External Server Configuration window right click on the server node
and choose Properties – Server Parameters from the popup, or press the Add or
Modify button from the Add Server window.
For the low level execution of the server, the following configuration data are
reported:
− Name: server name.
− System Global Name: server system name.
− Command Line: with this option you can enable or disable the command line
execution of the server.
− Command Line Parameters: command line execution parameters of the
server.
− Start & Stop Only: the current server will run as a program since it will be
executed and stopped respectively on the start and on the stop of the system.
This option is not available for the system servers.
− Exported Memory Definition: exported memory size definition; you can insert
the number or the sizeof of a structure.
− Prototypes Files List: list of the .#syspro names and files containing the
server function prototypes available for the application.
− Simulated: this option allows to simulate the server. This option is not
available for the system servers.
3.7.2.2 Function Names

To open the Function Names window, right click on he server node and choose
Properties – Functions Definition from the popup.
By double clicking on the function name the External Function Configuration window
will appear.
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3.7.2.3 External Function Configuration

To open the External Function Configuration window, double click on a function
name from the list of the Function Names window, or click the right button of the
mouse on the function name from the list of the Function Names window and
choose Add or Modify.
The window contains the following information:
- Number: function number.
- IPC Code: function low level code inside the server.
- Parallel Execution: this parameter indicates if the parallel execution of the
function is enable or not. If enabled the Thread Pool is used, i.e. when the
function is executed, other Plc task can started.
- Asyncronous: to be implemented.
- Priority: asynchronous execution priority. This parameter can be inserted
only if the Asynchronous option is enabled.
- Get Result Handle: with this option you can allow or not to get the function
handle. This option can be selected only if the Asyncronous option is
enabled.
3.7.3 Input Output - Configuration

The Configuration node inside the Input Outputs node enclose the project
hardware I/O configuration.
The Configuration node contains the I/O servers nodes.
Inside each I/O server you find the following sub:
- List: it contains the list of the fieldbus associated to the I/O server.
- Server: it shows the I/O server configuration.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the Configuration node the following
popup appears:
- New Server: with this command you can add a new I/O.
- Expand All: with this command you can expand all the sub nodes of the
selected node.
- Collapse All: with this command you can close all the sub nodes of the
selected node.
By right clicking on a server I/O the following popup appears:

- Delete: with this command you can delete the selected I/O serve.
- Rename: with this command you can rename the selected I/O server.
selected node.
selected node.
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By right clicking on the node of the list of fieldbus and I/O server boards, the
- New – Board: with this command you may add a new ISA/PCI board to the
I/O server associated to the selected node.
- New – Fieldbus: with this command you can add a fieldbus to the I/O
server associated to the selected node.
selected node.
selected node.
By right clicking on the I/O server configuration node the following popup appears:
- Properties: you can view the I/O server properties.
By right clicking on the ETN fieldbus node the following popup appears:
- Monitor: you can open the Statistics Boards Fieldbus window associate
to the node. This command is enabled only in debug mode.
- Add Board: with this command you can add a board to the fieldbus
- Remove From Project: with this command you can remove, from the
project, the fieldbus associated to the selected node, and all its boards.
- Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the fieldbus
By right clicking on the node of a ISA/PCI or ETN board you can open the
following popup:
- Monitor: with this command you can view the Test window associated to
the node. This command is enabled only in debug mode.
- Remove From Project: with this command you can remove from the project
the board associated to the node.
- Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the board
associated to the node.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on a CANOPEN, TCPIP Modbus and
DeviceNet fieldbus node, you open the following popup:
− Add Node: you can add a node to the fieldbus like if it is a physical node.
the fieldbus and all its boards.
− Properties: you can view the properties of the fieldbus associated to the
node.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on a node of a fieldbus node the
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− Monitor: you can view the Test window associated to the fieldbus node.
This option is enabled only in debug mode.
− Remove From Project: you can remove, from the project, the fieldbus node
− Properties: you can view the properties of the fieldbus node associated to
the selected node.
3.7.3.1 I/O Server Configuration
To view the I/O server settings, double click on Server.

The I/O Server Configuration window is organized as follows:
- Refresh Period: server refresh time, in microseconds.
- Priority: I/O server priority.
- Ok: you can confirm your changes to the configuration.
- Cancel: you exit from the configuration window without saving the
changes.
3.7.3.2 New Server

To add a new I/O server to the hardware configuration of the project, right click on the
Configuration node inside the Inputs Outputs and select New Server.
Edit the I/O server name and press OK to proceed or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The I/O server is added at the bottom of the hardware configuration.
3.7.3.2.1 Delete
To remove an I/O server from the project, click with the right button of the mouse on
the I/O server and select Delete. Choose Yes to delete the server or No to cancel
the operation.
This operation will remove the I/O server and all its settings; the user must verify that
any reference to the I/O server to remove is still present in the project.
3.7.3.2.2 Rename
To rename an I/O server, right click on the I/O server and choose Rename.
Edit the new I/O server name and press Ok to confirm or Cancel to cancel the
operation.
3.7.3.2.3 New - Board
To add an ISA/PCI board to the project hardware configuration, right click on List
and select New – Board.
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From the list of the supported ISA/PCI boards, choose the desired board, insert the
board properties and click OK to confirm or Cancel to cancel the operation.
For further information about the boards properties see the ISA/PCI board list.
3.7.3.2.4 New - Fieldbus
To add a fieldbus to the project hardware configuration, right click on List and
select New – Fieldbus.
From the list of the supported fieldbus, choose the desired one, insert the properties
and click OK to confirm or Cancel to cancel the operation.
For further information about the fieldbus properties see the Fieldbus list.
3.7.3.2.5 Monitor
To open the Statistics Boards Fieldbus… window, associated to a fieldbus, right

click on the fieldbus and select Monitor. This option is enable only in debug
mode.
Depending on the fieldbus type, the Statistics Boards Fieldbus… window is
organized as follows:
− For CANopen fieldbus: you will open the Statistics Boards Fieldbus
CANopen <address> window of the fieldbus associated to the node.
In the upper part of this window are reported the following values:
− Cycle Counter: number of cycles executed by the fieldbus.
− Last Interval Jitter: you can use this value to monitor the accuracy
of the operational system, calling the servers execution.
− Startup Jitter: you can use this value to monitor the accuracy of the
operational system, calling the servers execution on the startup.
− Current Execution Time: time, in microseconds, needed to run the
fieldbus boards execution cycle.
− Max Execution Time: maximum time, in microseconds, needed to
run the fieldbus boards execution cycle.
In the window, for each configured board, there are reported the following
information:
− Board: board name and address.
− Num. Cycles: board calling cycles number.
− Err. Cycles: erroneous board calling cycles number.
− % Error: board error percentage.
− Error Code: board error code.
− Emergency Counter: number of emergency messages of the
CANopen unity.
− Error Register: current error code of the CANopen unity. The error
codes respects the DS401 profile.
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− Additional Code: current error code of the CANopen unity. The

error codes depends on the CANopen unity manufacturer.
− Node State: node status. The possible status respect the DS401
profile.
− For the ETN fieldbus: you will open the Statistics Boards Fieldbus ETN
<address> window, associated to the selected node. In the window, for
each configured board on the fieldbus the following information are
reported:
− For the TCPModbus or RTUModbus fieldbus: you will open the Statistics
Boards Fieldbus TCPMODBUS window, associated to the fieldbus node.
In the upper part of the window you can find the following information
concerning the fieldbus:
− Last Interval Jitter: you can use this value monitoring the accuracy
− Startup Jitter: you can use this value monitoring the accuracy of
the operational system, calling the servers execution on the startup.
information:
− Dig. In: number of resources provided by the board as digital input.
− Dig. Out: number of resources provided by the board as digital
output.
− An. In: number of resources provided by the board as analog input.
− An. Out: number of resources provided by the board as analog
output.
− For the DeviceNet fieldbus: you will open the Statistics Boards Fieldbus
DEVICENET window, associated to the selected node.
In the upper part of the window you can find the following information
concerning the fieldbus:
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− Last Interval Jitter: you can use this value monitoring the accuracy
− Startup Jitter: you can use this value monitoring the accuracy of
the operational system, calling the servers execution on the startup.
information of the selected fieldbus:
− Dig. In: number of resources provided by the board as digital input.
− Dig. Out: number of resources provided by the board as digital
output.
− An. In: number of resources provided by the board as analog input.
− An. Out: number of resources provided by the board as analog
output.
3.7.3.2.6 Add Board
To add a board to a fieldbus, right click on the fieldbus and choose Add Board.
Select from the list fieldbus board list, the board to add and press Ok to confirm or
Set the board properties and press Ok to save the board configuration or press
For further information concerning the properties of each single board see the Boards
list.
To remove a fieldbus from project, right click on the fieldbus to remove and
choose Remove From Project. Choose Yes to confirm or No to cancel the
operation.
With this operation the fieldbus and all the associated boards will be removed from
the project hardware configuration; the user must verify that any fieldbus board to be
removed is still used in the project.
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To open the fieldbus configuration window, right click on the fieldbus and select
Properties.
The fieldbus properties names are reported on the right side of this window, their
values are reported on the left side.
When you create a new fieldbus, its properties are initialised with a default value.
For further information concerning the properties of each single fieldbus, see the
Fieldbus list.
3.7.3.2.9 Fieldbus list
The fieldbus supported by the system are the followings:

− Canopen Fieldbus
− Etn Fieldbus
− TCPIP Modbus Fieldbus
− DeviceNet Fieldbus
3.7.3.2.9.1 Canopen Fieldbus
The settings for a CANopen fieldbus are the followings:

− Address: fieldbus address. Default value: 0.
− IRQ: fieldbus Irq level. Default value: 0.
− Period: calling period of all the fieldbus boards. Default value: 100
milliseconds.
− Device: fieldbus device type. List of possible values. Default value:
"CAN527D"
− Baudrate: fieldbus baudrate. List of possible values. Default value:
"1MBIT"
− ServerName: fieldbus server name. List of possible values. Default value:
"CanopenServer".
− ServerMemory: shared memory name of the fieldbus server. List of
possible values. Default value: "CanopenMem".
− StatisticsPeriod: the period of request of the fieldbus board statistics.
Default value: 100 milliseconds. Resolution 10 milliseconds.
− Simulated: flag that indicates if the fieldbus is running in simulation.
Default value: “False”.
3.7.3.2.9.2 Etn Fieldbus
The settings for a ETN fieldbus are the followings:

− Address: fieldbus address. Default value: 0.
− IRQ: fieldbus Irq level. Default value: 0.
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− Period: calling period of all the fieldbus boards. Default value: 100
milliseconds.
− Simulated: flag that indicates if the fieldbus is running in simulation.
3.7.3.2.9.3 TCPIP Modbus Fieldbus
The settings for a TCPIP Modbus fieldbus are the followings:

- ServerName: name of the server that manages the fieldbus.
- ServerMemory: name of the memory used by the server.
- Simulated: flag that indicates if the fieldbus is running in simulation.
3.7.3.2.9.4 RTU Modbus Fieldbus
The settings for a RTU Modbus fieldbus are the followings:

- SerialNumber: number of the serial line used by the server.
- SerialAdddress: address of the serial line used by the server..
- SerialInterrupt: interrupt number of the serial line used by the server..
- SerialMode: serial line mode (for example 9600,N,8,1).
- DelayBetweenBoardRequest : delay in microsecondo between data
requests
3.7.3.2.9.5 DeviceNet Fieldbus
The settings for a DeviceNet fieldbus are the followings:

- Type: controller type (APPLICON).
- Board Slot: Board slot number.
3.7.3.2.10 Monitor
To open the Test window associated to a board, right click on the board and
select Monitor. This command is enabled only in debug mode.
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To open the Test window associated to a fieldbus node, right click on the fieldbus
node and select Monitor.
The board type and address are edited the title of Test window. Depending on the
board I/O type the following information are reported:
− For the digital input: there is a row for each digital input containing the
− Descr: digital input absolute address, or name of the global variable
associated to the digital input.
− Status: digital input status, updated each 500 milliseconds:
− OFF.
− ON.
− Error.
If the Force flag is off, the status shown is the one produced by the
program logic; If the Force flag is on, the status shown is the one
forced on the input.
− Force: this flag indicates if the status shown is forced or not.
To force an input, you must turn to on the Force flag and click on the input
status in such a way that it will assume the desired value.
− For the analog input: there is a row for each analog input containing the
− Descr: analog input absolute address, or name of the global
variable associated to the analog input.
− Status: hexadecimal analog input value, 12 bit, updated each 500
milliseconds.
forced on the input.
− For the digital output: there is a row for each digital output containing the
− Descr: digital output absolute address, or name of the global
variable associated to the digital output.
− Status: digital output status,
− OFF.
− ON.
− Error.
program logic; If the Force flag is on the status shown is the one
forced on the output.
To force an output, you must turn to on the Force flag and click on
the output status in such a way that it will assume the desired value.
− For the analog output: there is a row for each analog output containing the
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− Descr: analog output absolute address, or name of the global

variable associated to the analog output.
− Status: hexadecimal analog output value, 12 bit.
forced on the output.
To remove a board from the project, right click on the board and select Remove
From Project. Choose Yes to proceed or No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the board will be removed from the hardware configuration of the
project; the user must verify that the board to be removed is no more used in the
project.
To open the properties window containing the board configuration, right click on the
board and choose Properties.
The board properties names are reported on the right side of this window, their
values are reported on the left side.
When you create a new board, its properties are initialised with a default value.
For further information concerning the properties of each single board, see the Board
list.
3.7.3.2.13 Add Node
To add a node to a CANOPEN, TCPIP Modbus or DeviceNet fieldbus, as if it is a

physical node, right click on the fieldbus and select Add Node.
In the upper part of the window, the following information concerning the fieldbus
node are reported:
− Address: board address. Default value: 0.
- Simulated: flag that indicates if the board is simulated. List of possible
values. Default value: “False”.
In the central part of the window, the properties of each resource type, are listed.
− Digital Inputs: with this option you can enable the digital inputs and set the
following properties:
− InFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital inputs
of the board: from1 to 10000. the default value is calculated in such
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a way that the digital input groups of the selected board are
consecutive to the groups of the boards already declared.
− InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each
group is made off 16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs
groups must vary between 1 and 8. Default value: 1.
− Period: the board calling period, meaningful only if the
SynchronizeMode flag is True. Default value: 0 milliseconds.
− SynchronizeMode: this flag indicates if the board is called in
Synchronize mode or not, i.e.:
− If the SynchronizeMode is False the board will
communicate to the fieldbus the inputs values variations,
as soon as they appear, and not synchronized with the
board calling thread.
− If the SynchronizeMode is True, the board will
communicate to the fieldbus the inputs values variations
synchronized with the board calling thread. The Period
parameter determines the calling period.
List of possible values. Default value: "False".
− Digital Outputs: with this option you can enable the digital outputs and set
the following properties:
− OutFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital
outputs of the board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated
in such a way that the digital input groups of the selected board are
consecutive to the groups of the boards that have already been
declared.
− OutMaxGroups: number of the board digital outputs. Each group is
made off 16 digital outputs. The number of the digital outputs groups
must vary between 1 and 8. Default value: 1.
− StatusOnFault: Output value in case of board fault. List of possible
values. Default value: “Reset".
− Analog Inputs: with this option you can enable the analog inputs and set
the following properties:
− InFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog input of the
board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way
that the analog inputs of the selected board are consecutive to the
inputs of the boards that have already been declared.
− InMaxAnalog: number of analog inputs. The number of analog
inputs must vary between 1 and 16. Default value: 16.
− Type: Analog input type. List of possible values. Default value: “-
10+50[mV]".
− Period: board calling period, meaningful only if the
SynchronizeMode flag is True. Default value: 100 milliseconds.
− SynchronizeMode: this flag indicates if the board is called in
Synchronize mode or not, i.e.:
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− If the SynchronizeMode is False the board will

communicate to the fieldbus the analog inputs values
variations, as soon as they appear, and not synchronized
with the board calling thread.
− If the SynchronizeMode is True, the board will
communicate to the fieldbus the analog inputs values
variations synchronized with the board calling thread. The
Period parameter determines the calling period.
List of possible values. Default value: "True".
− Analog Outputs: with this option you can enable the analog outputs and
set the following properties:
− OutFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog output of the
board, from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way
that the analog outputs of the selected board are consecutive to the
outputs of the boards that have already been declared.
− OutMaxAnalog: number of the analog outputs. The number of the
analog outputs must vary between 1 and 16. Default value: 16.
− Type: analog outputs type. List of possible values. Default value:
"0+5[V]".
− StatusOnFault: Output value in case of board fault. List of possible
values. Default value: "NoModify".
At bottom of the page you will find the following buttons:
− OK: to confirm the properties of the fieldbus node.
− Cancel: to cancel the operation.
For the Modbus RTU fieldbus there are no nodes but only commissions. The
commissions can be of digital inputs, digital outputs, analog inputs, analog outputs.
The commissions are defined by :
• Name : name of the commission
• Commission number : id number of the commission
• ProtocolAddress : address of the slave to be accessed
• FunctionCode : message code defined by the Modbus RTU standard
• FirstWord : number of the first word to be required
• NumberOfWords : number of word sto be required
• Period : periodo of the queries in milliseconds
• AfterErrorPeriod : periodo f the querce in milliseconds when the slave is in
error state
• ErrorThreshold : number of consecutive errors needed to set the slave in
error state
• CommunicationTimeout : query timeout in milliseconds
• In/Out First Group : number of the first group seen by the plc
• In/Out Max Groups : number of groups in the plc memory
• Simulated : simulation flag for the commission
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To remove a fieldbus node from the project, right click on a fieldbus node and
select Remove From Project. Choose Yes proceed or No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the fieldbus node will be removed from the hardware configuration
of the project; the user must verify that the fieldbus node to be removed is no more
used in the project.
To open the window containing a fieldbus node configuration, right click on a fieldbus
node and select Properties.
In this window you can find all the fieldbus node properties.
When you create a new fieldbus node, each property is automatically initialised with a
default value.
For further information concerning the fieldbus node properties, see Add Node.
3.7.3.2.16 ISA/PCI board list
The ISA/PCI boards supported by the system are the followings:

− SC18
− AX4
− PALLETPC
− MAPPEDINPUT
− MAPPEDOUTPUT
− MEMORYMAPPEDINPUT
− MEMORYMAPPEDOUTPUT
− PCI8136
− WELDINGPC
− COLIBRIGPIO
3.7.3.2.16.1 SC18
The SC18 is a board with digital and analog inputs and outputs; the board settings
are the followings:
Address: board address. Default value 0.
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− InFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital inputs of the
board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the
digital input groups of this board are consecutive to the groups of the boards
that have already been declared.
− InMaxGroup: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is made
off 16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must vary
between 1 and 1. Default value: 1.
− OutFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital outputs of
the board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that
the digital input groups of the selected board are consecutive to the groups of
the boards that have already been declared.
− OutMaxGroup: number of the board digital outputs groups. Each group is
made off 16 digital outputs. The number of the digital outputs groups must
vary between 1 and 1. Default value: 1.
− InFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog input of the board: from1
to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the analog inputs
of the selected board are consecutive to the inputs of the boards that have
already been declared.
− InMaxAnalog: number of analog inputs. The number of analog inputs must
− Simulated: flag that indicates if the board is simulated. List of possible
− The following data refers to the 12 analog outputs of the board:
− EnableAnalog: sensor enable. Default value: False.
− TypeAnalog: sensor type. List of the possible values. Default value :
SSI.
− TimeStartAnalog: sensor start time, from 500 to 100000. This
parameter depends on the sensor type. Default value 1000.
− TimeConvAnalog: sampling frequency, from 45 to 1000000. Default
value: 45.
− FreeRunAnalog: if enabled the analog-digital conversion is made at
the frequency set by the TimeConvAnalog parameter, otherwise the
conversion is made at the I/O server frequency. Default value: True.
− NoErrorAnalog: if enabled the “sensor not connected” error will be
ignored. Default value: True.
− OutputSensAnalog:
− InputSensAnalog:
− EnableGrayAnalog: this option enables the Gray to binary conversion
for the SSI sensors. Default value: False.
− ErrorBitAnalog: this option enables the bit error in the SSI word.
Default value: False.
− ParityBitAnalog: this option enables the parity bit in the SSI word.
Default value: False.
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− ParityTypeAnalog: parity type. Default value: Even.

− StartEdgeAnalog: For the non SSI sensors, this option set the edge
start trigger, (rising or falling edge). Default value: Rising.
− StopEdgeAnalog: For the non SSI sensors, this option set the edge
stop trigger, (rising or falling edge). Default value: Rising.
− NumberBitAnalog: SSI word bits number, from 3 to 32. Default value:
16.
− TrueBitAnalog: SSI word true bits number, from 1 to 32. Default value:
14.
− 2CompBitAnalog: the bit from which calculate the two’s complement of
the SSI word, from 0 to 32. default value: 12.
− NumOfSensor: number of sensors , from 1 to 12. Default value: 1.
3.7.3.2.16.2 AX4
The AX4 is a board with digital inputs and outputs, the board settings are the
followings:
off 16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must vary from 1
to 3. Default value: 3.
− OutMaxGroups: number of the board digital outputs groups. Each group is
vary from 1 to 2. Default value: 2.
3.7.3.2.16.3 PALLETPC
The PALLETPC is a board with digital inputs and outputs, the board settings are the
followings:
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.3.2.16.4 MAPPEDINPUT
The MAPPEDINPUT is a board with digital inputs, the board settings are the
followings:
- Address: board address. Default value: 0.
- InFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital inputs of the board:
from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the digital
input groups of this board are consecutive to the groups of the boards that have
- InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is made off
16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must vary from 1 to 8.
Default value: 1.
- Simulated: flag that indicates if the board is simulated. List of possible values.
3.7.3.2.16.5 MAPPEDOUTPUT
The MAPPEDOUTPUT is a board with digital outputs, the board settings are the
followings:
- OutFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital outputs of
the board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way
that the digital input groups of the selected board are consecutive to the
groups of the boards that have already been declared.
- OutMaxGroups: number of the board digital outputs groups. Each group is
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.3.2.16.6 MEMORYMAPPEDINPUT
The MEMORYMAPPEDINPUT is a board with digital inputs, the board settings are
the followings:
- InFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital inputs of the board:
from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the digital
input groups of this board are consecutive to the groups of the boards that have
- InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is made off
16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must vary from 1 to 8.
Default value: 1.
- Simulated: flag that indicates if the board is simulated. List of possible values.
3.7.3.2.16.7 MEMORYMAPPEDOUTPUT
The MEMORYMAPPEDOUTPUT is a board with digital outputs, the board settings

are the followings:
3.7.3.2.16.8 PCI8136
The PCI8136 is a board with digital and analog inputs and digital outputs, the board
settings are the followings:
− InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is made
− OutFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital outputs of the
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Chapter 3: Project
digital input groups of the selected board are consecutive to the groups of the
boards that have already been declared.
− InFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog input of the board: from1 to
10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the analog inputs of
the selected board are consecutive to the inputs of the boards that have
− InMaxAnalogs/Encoders: number of analog inputs. The number of analog
− Simulated: flag that indicates if the board is simulated. List of possible values.
3.7.3.2.16.9 WELDINGPC
The WELDINGPC is a board with digital and analog inputs and digital outputs, the
board settings are the followings:
- InFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital inputs of the
board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that
the digital input groups of this board are consecutive to the groups of the
- InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is
made off 16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must
- InFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog input of the board:
from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the
analog inputs of the selected board are consecutive to the inputs of the
- InMaxAnalogs/Encoders: number of analog inputs. The number of analog
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.3.2.16.10 COLIBRIGPIO
This device descrive the general purpose digital I/O for the Colibri systems with
WinCE operating system. The board settings are the following :
- InFirstGroup: absolute number of the first group of the digital inputs of the
board: from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that
the digital input groups of this board are consecutive to the groups of the
- InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is
made off 16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must
- BitsDetection: this property defines for each general purpose bit if it is a
digital input or a digital output
- OutsStartValue: it defines for each bit in digital output mode the system
startup value.
3.7.3.2.17 Boards list
The system supports the following boards:

− For the Etn fieldbus
− TSR20
− TSR31
− TSR40
− TSR44
− TSR51
− TSR56
− TSR67
− TSR72
3.7.3.2.17.1 TSR20
The TSR20 is a aboard with digital inputs, the board settings are the followings:
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Chapter 3: Project
− InMaxGroups: number of the board digital inputs groups. Each group is
made off 16 digital inputs. The number of the digital inputs groups must vary
− Simulated: flag indicating if the board is simulated. List of possible values.
3.7.3.2.17.2 TSR31
The TSR31 is a board with digital outputs, the board settings are the followings:
3.7.3.2.17.3 TSR40
The TSR40 is a board with digital inputs and outputs, the board settings are the
followings:
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Chapter 3: Project

3.7.3.2.17.4 TSR44
The TSR44 is a board with digital inputs and outputs, the board settings are the
followings:
3.7.3.2.17.5 TSR51
The TSR51 is a board with analog outputs, the board settings are the followings:
− OutFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog output of the board,
from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the analog
outputs of the selected board are consecutive to the outputs of the boards
− OutMaxAnalogs/Encoders: number of analog outputs. The number of
analog outputs must vary between 1 and 8. Default value: 8.
3.7.3.2.17.6 TSR56
The TSR56 is a board with analog inputs, the board settings are the followings:
− Address: board address. Default: 0.
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.3.2.17.7 TSR67
The TSR67 is a board with digital and analog inputs and outputs, the board settings
are the followings:
− InMaxAnalog: number of analog inputs. The number of analog inputs must
− OutFirstAnalog: absolute number of the first analog output of the board,
from1 to 10000. The default value is calculated in such a way that the analog
outputs of the selected board are consecutive to the outputs of the boards
− OutMaxAnalogs/Encoders: number of analog outputs. The number of
analog outputs must vary from 1 to 4. Default value: 4.
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.3.2.17.8 TSR72
The TSR72 is a board with analog inputs, the board settings are the followings:
inputs must vary from 1 to 4.
The address can be inserted as a decimal number (for example 100) or as a

hexadecimal number with the 0x prefix (for example 0x100).
3.7.4 Virtual Processor - Configuration

To open the virtual processor configuration window, double click on the project node
Configuration under the node Virtual Processor.
The IEC1131 Virtual Processor Configuration window is organized as follows:
- Scheduler:
- Period (ms) : scheduler activation time, in milliseconds.
- Max Task Execution Time (ms): maximum time for the continuos
execution of the task, in milliseconds. If the execution time for a task
exceeds this value, the system goes to error.
- Thread Pool:
- Enabled: allows the creation of a group of threads available for the
parallel execution of the servers services.
- Error On Busy: if this option is enabled and all the threads are
busy, the task requiring one more service will go on error; if this
option is disabled the task will wait until a thread become available.
- Number Of Threads: number of threads for a thread pool.
If the Parallel Execution option is enabled, the threads can be used by
the functions of remote servers. For further information, see External
Function Configuration.
- Data Logger:
- Enabled: enable the creation of the Data Logger.
- Max Number Of Session: maximum number of Data Logger
sessions.
- OK: with this command you can save the settings changes.
- Cancel: with this command you close the window without saving the
settings changes.
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.5 Serial - Configuration

To open the serial port configuration window, double click on the project node
with the serial board name, under the Configuration subnode of the Serial
node.
The Serial Port Configuration window is organized as follows:
- Type: serial port type. The serial port types available are the followings :
- SINGLE8250
- MOXA
- SERCANOP
- MOXAPCI
- Address: address of the serial port.
- Interrupt: interrupt of the serial port. This parameter is not needed for the
SERCANOP serial ports.
- First Serial Number: number of the first serial port.
- Number Of Serial: number of the serial ports.
- Canopen Server Name: name of the server that manages the serial port,
this parameter is needed only for the SERCANOP serial ports.
- OK: with this command you can close the window saving the settings
changes.
- Cancel: with this command you close the window without saving the
settings changes.
3.7.6 Axis - Configuration

The Configuration node inside the Axis node, contains the axis server
configuration of the project.
Inside the Configuration node there are the axis nodes..
Inside each axis server node there are the following nodes:
- Master boards: contains the master boards nodes (encoder / dac) to
manage the axes of the associated axis server.
- List: contains the list of the axis associated to the axis server.
- Fieldbus: shows the axes fieldbus configuration, only for CANOPEN
master boards.
- Server: shows the axis server configuration.
By right clicking on the node Configuration you can open the following popup:
− New Server: with this command you can add a new axis server.
− View Trace: with this command you can view the acquisition files that have
been saved.
− Simulate All: you can simulate the axes control.
− Expand All: you can expand all the subnodes of the selected node.
− Collapse All: you can close all the subnodes of the selected node.
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Chapter 3: Project
By right clicking on a axis server node you open the following popup:
- Delete: with this command you can delete the axis server, associated to
the selected node and to all its sub nodes.
- Rename: with this command you can rename the axis server associated to
the selected node.
selected node.
selected node.
By double clicking on the Fieldbus node you can open the Axes Fieldbus
Configuration window.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the Fieldbus node you can open the
following popup:
- Properties: with this command you can view the fieldbus configuration of
the axis server.
By double clicking on the Server node you can open the Axes Server
Configuration window.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the Server node you can open the
following popup:
- Properties: with this command you can view the axis server configuration.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on an axis node ( circular simulated;
linear simulated, circular real, linear real), you open the following popup:
- Monitor: with this command you can see the axis test window. This
command is available only in debug mode. For further information see the
Axis.
project, the axis associated to the selected node.
- Delete: with this command you can delete the axis associated to the
selected node.
- Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the axis
In debug mode, beside the axis name you can see the following information:
− Axis status:
− axis in halt.
− axis in motion.
By double clicking on an axis node ( circular simulated; linear simulated,
circular real, linear real), you can open the Axis configuration window, reporting
the properties of the axis associated to the selected node.
3.7.6.1 New Server
To add a new axis server to the project axes configuration, right click on the
Configuration node, under the Axis node, and select New Server.
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Chapter 3: Project
Edit the server name and choose Ok to proceed or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The axis server will be added at the bottom of the axes configuration.
3.7.6.1.1 Delete
To delete an axis server from a project, click with the right button of the mouse on the
axis and select Delete. Choose Yes to delete the server or No to cancel the
operation.
With this operation the axis server and all its settings will be deleted; the user must
verify that any reference to the server to be removed is still present in the project.
3.7.6.1.2 Rename
To rename an axis server, right click on the axis server and choose Rename.
Edit the new name for the axis server and Ok to rename the task or Cancel to cancel
the operation.
3.7.6.1.3 Master Boards
The master boards node contains the master boards nodes (encoder / dac). With
these nodes, you can manage the axes of the axis server associated to the upper
level node.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on the Master Boards node you can
open the following popup:
- New: you can add a new master board to manage the axes of the axis
server associated to the node.
- Import: you can import a master board to manage the axes of the axis
server associated to the node.
selected node.
selected node.
By clicking the right button on a master board node the following popup appears:
project, the master board associated to the node.
- Delete: with this command you can delete the master board associated to
the node.
- Properties: with this command you can view the properties of the master
board associated to the node.
By double clicking on a master board you can open the Master Board
Configuration window, reporting the properties of the master board associated to the
selected node.
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.6.1.3.1 New
To add a new master board to a server axis configuration of a project, click with the
right button of the mouse on the Master Boards node and choose New.
Set the master board properties and choose OK to save the configuration of the new
master board or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The master board is added at the bottom of the master boards list.
For further information concerning the properties of a master server board see
Master Board – Properties.
3.7.6.1.3.2 Import
To import an existing master server board in the axis server configuration of a

project, right click on the Master Boards node and choose Import.
Choose the file with .ams extension containing the master board definition to import
and press OK to proceed or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The master board is added at the bottom of the master boards list.
For further information concerning the master board Master Board – Properties.
3.7.6.1.3.3 Remove From Project
To remove a master board, from an axis server of a project, right click on the master
board and choose Remove From Project. Choose Yes to remove the master
board or No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the board will be removed from the axis server of the project; the
user must verify that any reference to the master board to be removed is still present
in the project.
3.7.6.1.3.4 Delete
To delete a master board, from an axis server of a project and delete the associated
files, right click on the master board and choose Delete. Choose Yes to remove
the master board and delete all its files or No to cancel the operation.
With this operation the board and all its files will be deleted from the axis server of the
project; the user must verify that any reference to the master board to be deleted is
3.7.6.1.3.5 Properties
To see the properties of a master board of the axes configuration, right click on the
board and select Properties.
A master board settings are organized in the following pages:
- Identification:
− Name: master board name.
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Chapter 3: Project
− Simulated: flag for the simulated master board.

- Parameters:
- Board type: master board type for the axis management. List of
possible values. Default value: VIGILANT.
- Resources: number of the I/O resources, supported by the selected
master board. Non-editable value.
- Interrupt level: interrupt level for the master board management. List of
possible values. Default value: 1.
- Base address: master board base address. Default value: 0x0.
3.7.6.1.4 List
In this node you can find the list of the axes, of the axis server, associated to the
upper level node.
By clicking the right button of the mouse on List node you can open the following
popup:
- New: you can add a axis to the axis server associated to the node.
- Import: you can import an axis to the axis server associated to the node.
- Expand All: you can expand all the sub nodes of the selected node.
- Collapse All: you can close all the sub nodes of the selected node.
3.7.6.1.4.1 New
To add a new axis to the configuration of an axis server of a project, click with right
button of the mouse on the List node and select and select New.
Set the axis properties and choose OK to save the new axis configuration or Cancel
The axis is added at the button at the bottom of the axes list.
For further information concerning the axis properties see Axis – Properties.
3.7.6.1.4.2 Import
To import an existing axis in the axis server configuration of a project, right click on
the List node and choose Import.
Choose the file with .acs extension containing the axis definition to import and press
OK to proceed or Cancel to cancel the operation.
The axis is added at the bottom of the axes list.
For further information concerning the axis see Axis – Properties.
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Chapter 3: Project
3.7.6.1.4.3 Monitor
To open the project test window, right click on the axis ( circular simulated;
linear simulated, circular real, linear real), and select Monitor. This command
is available only in debug mode.
For further information see the Axis document.
3.7.6.1.4.4 Remove From Project
To remove an axis from the axis server of the project, click with the right button of the
mouse on the axis ( circular simulated; linear simulated, circular real,
linear real), and select Remove From Project. Choose Yes to remove the axis or
No to cancel the operation.
This operation will remove the axis from the axis server of the project; the user must
verify that any reference to the axis to be removed is still present in the project.
3.7.6.1.4.5 Delete
To delete an axis from the axis server of the project and all the associated files, right
click on the axis ( circular simulated; linear simulated, circular real, linear
real), and choose Delete. Choose Yes to delete the axis and all its files or No to
This operation will remove the axis from the axis server of the project and all the
associated files; the user must verify that any reference to the axis to be removed is
3.7.6.1.4.6 Properties
To open the window containing the axis configuration, right click on the axis (
circular simulated; linear simulated, circular real, linear real) and select
Properties.
The axis settings are organized in the following pages:
− Identification:
− Name: axis name.
− Axis type:
− Linear.
− Circular.
The axis type determines the motion units:
− For the linear axes:
− The motion units are the followings:
− Position: mm.
− Velocity: mm/min.
− Resolution: pulse/mm.
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Chapter 3: Project
− For circular axes:

− The motion units are the followings:
− Position: degrees.
− Velocity: rpm.
− Resolution: pulse/revolution.
− Simulated: simulated axis flag. If this flag is on, it means that the axis is
simulated, i.e. the axis behaviour is ideal and no access to the control
hardware (encoder, DAC, I/O ) is provided.
− Parameters.
− Jog parameters.
− Input/Output.
− Timing.
− PID Parameters.
− CanMotion.
When you create a new axis its settings are initialised to a default value.
To choose the default values for all the axis settings, select the Default check and
confirm by pressing OK.
For further information concerning the axis properties see the Axis document.
3.7.6.1.5 Axes Fieldbus Configuration
To open the fieldbus settings on which a CANOPEN master board may be installed,
double click on Fieldbus.
The Axes Fieldbus Configuration window is organized as follows:
− Address: fieldbus address.
− IRQ: fieldbus interrupt level.
− Device: fieldbus device.
− Baudrate: fieldbus baudrate.
− Simulated: master board simulated flag.
− Ok: with this command you can save the settings changes.
− Cancel: with this command you close the window without saving the
settings.
3.7.6.1.6 Axes Server Configuration
To view the axis server settings, double click on the Server.

The Axes Server Configuration is organized as follows:
− Tick Multiplier: axes regulation tick multiplier.
− Interrupt Source IO Server Name: is the I/O server whose timer provides
the interrupt for the axis server, if any I/O server is selected the axis server
interrupt will be given by an internal timer.
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Chapter 3: Project
− Timer Number: number of the hardware timer used for the axis server
interrupt. If the timer number is 0 the interrupt is provided by an internal
timer.
− Timer Period: timer period, in microseconds. This value is valid only if in
the Timer Number field an hardware timer has been selected.
− Ok: with this command you can save the settings.
− Cancel: with this command you close the window, without saving the
settings
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Chapter 3: Project

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PowerPLC-Bridge Manual V7.

2.1.1.23 .......................... Edit - Paste ............................................................. 2-10

2.1.1.65 .......................... Help - Quick Start Help ............................................ 2-27

3.3.3.................................... Import ...................................................................... 3-13

3.7.3.2.7 ..................... Remove From Project .............................................. 3-33

3.7.6.1.4 ..................... List 3-55

About this guide

− What is Power PLC-Bridge?

1.1 What is PowerPLC-Bridge?

1.2 System architecture

RealTime PC System for

1.3 System requirements

1.3.1 Requirements of the programming console

1.3.2 Requirements for the real time PC-based motion controller

IMPORTANT: PowerPLC-Bridge must be installed directly on stand alone computer.

To run PowerPLC-Bridge click on Start – Program – Power-PLCBridge.

1.7.1 Use of the mouse

1.7.2 Use of the keyboard

1.8 How to open the user guide

1.8.1The on-line user guide

1.8.2The README.TXT file

Error Check & notice, with

VIRTUAL PROCESSOR CODE

TCP/IP communication to the Control System

PowerPLC-Bridge can be executed by launching the program using different options:

• -a#: specifies the options for multiple execution of PowerPLC-Bridge. If

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

• a0: will open a new PowerPLC-Bridge.

• a1: will not open a new PowerPLC-Bridge.

• -b followed by a path of an external application, allows to add, to the

• -c#: specifies the access level request

• c0: PowerPLC-Bridge will start without requiring to specify the

• 1: PowerPLC-Bridge Bridge will start requiring to specify the

• -d#: specifies the developement system behaviour when the control

• 0: the developement system can’t work with this control.

• 1: the developement system can work with this control. This

• -f#: specifies if the startup module with system configuration has to be

• 0: the startup module is always hidden.

• 1: the startup module can be viewed in the editor form

• -i#: specifies the PowerPLC application to be opened at startup time

• -m#: specifies if the developement system has to comunicate with

• 0: IDE communicates with the control system.

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

• 1: IDE doesn’t comunicate with the control system and works in

• -o#: this option specifies the pathnames of the dictionaries to be used.

2.1 The programming interface

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

2.1.1The menu bar

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

Some of menu commands can be lunched using shortcuts

2.1.1.1 Shortcuts table

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

Ctrl+T Debug – Stop

2.1.1.2 File - New - Project

2.1.1.3 File - Open

Chapter 2: Programming Environment

Pressing OK the file will be open in the editor frame.

2.1.1.4 File - Open Project