Creating a display to show the status of the machine in NA touchscreen

[TonyBB]

Hello Experts,

I want to know that in Sysmac Studio, what is the most common way to display different status of a machine. I know in previous versions of HMI that I worked with such as Omron NS, NB, we always use an address and if that address receives different values, different messages are displayed accordingly. What about for NA? Since NA is all variable-oriented, I guess I have to create a "data display" from the toolbox and create a string variable "MachineStatus". If I want to display different message, is it also done according to what value is put in the variable? In that case where do I type the list of messages I want to display? Or else is creating a subroutine also an ideal solution so I can do it like "if status = 2, then message = "aaaaa". Then how do I get it to trigger this subroutine?

Much appreciated. Thanks!

[IO_Rack]

There are a few methods to achieve indirect String addressing. The most direct method, for the few messages that you describe, is to use a Data Lamp. This is probably the direct replacement for the NS Label used as a Message Display.

Under Behavior > Expression, you input the Integer tag with the reference. Then under Color Ranges, click the 'plus' sign. Here you input all the attributes you wish including Text, Text Color and Lamp Color. Yes, this function is slightly hidden until you know. I think it will be evident once you open the dialog box.

FYI... All the Strings in the NA are referenced via a Resource ID. You probably use the Data Lamp for your solution but just so you know, you can see all the String references under Resources > Root > General Strings. You may add and/or edit here. If you organize them, you may use the Resource ID for your indirect reference as well. 

[TonyBB]

Got it Thanks! For the Label, I had to go into Text Setting and type for Expression "ResourceID" & StatusVariable