Programmable Automation Controllers
SoftLogix5800 Controller
Overview
Reliable, open, PC-based control solution
SoftLogix brings together the benefits of the Logix platform — common programming environment, common networks, common control engine — to provide a reliable, open, PC-based control solution.
- Reliable, open, PC-based control solution
- Integrate programming, control, motion and visualization on an industrial or desktop PC
- Support for multiple I/O platforms
- Control I/O on EtherNet/IP
A typical SoftLogix system starts with a virtual chassis application running on a Pentium-based computer. The virtual chassis houses the processors and communication cards that interface to other Logix processors as well as I/O. Application debugging and system start up is made easier through the use of I/O simulator modules provided for use in the virtual chassis.
Imagine a warehouse with a conveyor loop connecting incoming materials and outgoing shipments. Data read by a bar code reader must be compared with the MES database information to determine the state of a diverter switch on the conveyor for sorting materials. I/O is scattered across wide distances. Execution time and network response time is critical.
The solution? SoftLogix, combined with RSView on an industrial computer such as the VersaView family. SoftLogix can be used with ControlNet and DeviceNet I/O and provides the ability to control I/O on an EtherNet/IP network using standard Ethernet hardware. It easily bridges the gap between control and information worlds, while delivering a world-class application solution. SoftLogix is a great option for 'data-crunching' applications that also require the making of control decisions.
Configure interface cards such as those for ControlNet, DeviceNet, or motion control.
Support for External Routines
Use any programming language that can create a Windows DLL (C and C++) to develop RSLogix 5000 routine objects to invoke functions developed outside of the RSLogix 5000 Enterprise Series environment.
After you develop the routine, use RSLogix 5000 Enterprise Series software to add the routine to the controller organizer and use the routine properties to define the DLL to execute. You add an external routine to the Controller Organizer the same way you create a new ladder routine.