Alpha Programming

[justwhy2003]

Any tips on the programming of the Alpha ALVLS programming software, its so strange to use when used to ladder logic. Can i use the relay contacts and coils inside the software as i would on Gx Developer or are they only represntitives of the inputs and outputs for the process. How for instance do i make a simple latch circuit, ive just started with it today and will prob be up to speed soon but any tips would be helpful Thanks Justwhy2003

[panic mode]

no ladder, it's function block all the way (unless they come up with new software...). it is very simple to use. you pick controller, programming sheet shows up with right number of inputs. you connect them either directly of through logic blocks. if you have done programming in the past this will be walk in park. inputs are on the left, outputs are on the right, you just connect them and in case of special blocks, you get to setup parameters (like timer preset). there are two types of "wires": - single line is digital (on/off) signal - bold line is analog value you cannot feed digital signal into analog input and the other way around. when ever you start with new controler, do your home work ("hello world" type of program) and keep building on it as you learn more. there is built in simulator so you can see if and how the code works.

[phenesc]

The function block programming is a different thought process. It takes me back to digital logic class. There is a set/reset function block that will provide the functionality you are looking for. It may help also if you think of ladder in terms of a boolean function. Series contacts are AND's and parallel contacts are OR's. It took me a while to get use to it, but with the built in simulator, it is sure easyto see how things work. Also the display block provides a very simplistic yet powerful GUI. Craig