Hello,

The problem is: I want to network two computers together. I have a SLC 5/03. I want to use the DF1 (coming off the SLC 5/03). The DF1 will

plug into the Serial Port (located on computer "A"). Then I want to use a Ethernet Cable coming from computer "A" and hook that Ethernet Cable into

another computer; we can call that computer "B". The reason why I want to do this is - I can program (RSLogix 500 Standard) on computer "A" and use a HMI application (AdvancedHMI) on computer "B".

So - is this possible - any thoughts on how to make this work would be appreciated.

Thank you,

K-

I think the only way you will be able to do this is to use the "full blown" version of RSLinx (ie, not the lite version that ships with RSLogix500). The programming package needs to have RSLinx to access the PLC, and if you want to access the PLC via the same PC as the programming PC for your HMI, then you will be using the same serial port. Generally drivers accessing the serial port will grab it exclusively which does not allow you to use a second driver to access the same port. With a non-lite version of RSLinx, your programming package should be able to access the PLC and you should be able to point to that RSLinx from another PLC for use with your HMI. I have not tried this exact setup, but have used similar setups in the past with success. The RSLinx package is pretty expensive. You may want to look at alternatives. Alternatively, you can use the second port on the SLC (RS485) for your HMI and the RS232 for programming. You can also purchase an ENI module to put the SLC serial port on Ethernet, but this has other design considerations when communicating with it. Let me know if I can expand on anything.

Thanks for your help.


I thought about using the DH485 port from the SLC (RS485) to computer "B" (like you say) for the HMI.
The problem is: I can't connect DH485 to the Ethernet port (of Computer "B").
Connecting the DH485 to the Ethernet port would "blow-out" the Ethernet port
on Computer "B". DH485 is the protocal and the pin-outs of the physical-layer
are different from a RS485's physical layer pin-out. Correct me if I'm wrong though.
Were you saying use the DH485 SLC port and connect that to the serial port of Computer "B"?


There's also the option of using a "device server". Something that converts
DF1 to Etherent. But that cost extra money. Plus, I've never done that before -
although I'm not opposed to doing that if that's what it takes.

Let me know what you think - I really do appreciate your taking the time to answer my
question - it does help.

K-

NO! Definetly dont connect the DH485 port too your computer ethernet! It is somewhat unfortunate that they used the same RJ45 connector for that port. The 485 hardware configuration is different from 232, but a converter can be inserted to allow 232 to talk with 485. I am not sure the pinout of that port, but I dont think you really have to know that. You just need to go get a 1747-PIC module or some compatable module that will allow you to connect to that port on the SLC. The third part modules are fairly inexpensive and that would be the way I would suggest going. It looks like mrplc sells something that looks like what we use for less than $40.

http://store.mrplc.com/ 

It may be easier to setup your programming through this device and your HMI through rs-232. You can determine that when you see what drivers you have available in the HMI.

I'll check it out!

Thanks Again,

K-