I am trying to connect to a ControlLogix 5580 PLC on a newer machine we own.
I understand our Studio5000 software will need to be upgraded to newest version, but I'm wondering about security measures on these new controllers.
I have heard they can be digitally locked and may require authentication by the program author.
Will we have trouble connecting to a digitally signed controller if the manufacturer doesn't want to grant us access?
They seem to want to hold us hostage by charging us big money every time their glitchy machine goes down.
I am out of date with newer controllers and could use some guidance on how to proceed.
Looking at your SCREEN SHOT
-- you are at the prompt to UPLOAD a program from your machine.
However, the context of your narrative tells me that you trying to get a mirror image of the operating system of your existing machine and somehow use it on your future machine that you intend to purchase.
(I want to try it before investing on a 10K System)
Essentially--you are trying to
clone your existing OS.
Most of these industrial Operating Systems (or apps) are proprietary. They’re are not doing this for charity.
Besides, your approach is akin to
“putting the horse behind the cart.”
To be able to proceed on
cloning or getting a
mirror image of what you have now-- requires a thorough knowledge of the 7 Layers or
OSI protocol to get at your level –in essence the HARDWARE
LAYER. By this, I mean, what system of communication are you using.
At this point in your approach: you are at the lowest level in the OSI
and you don’t know what protocol is supporting it.
Before you can initiate a migration of your APPS, drivers or the entire OS.
There is a big chance that you are using MODBUS Protocol for your old System. It is usually integrated into RS Logix –and the good thing is it’s free to download.Although you have to know what you’re doing to deploy it in your system if it’s not yet in there.
Failure (due to errors) could render devastating consequences on the entire system,
You are basically modifying the entire REGISTRY of your computer library.
There are several competing systems that Schneider offer this for free to promote wider use.
MODBUS is the
DE FACTO Standard for industrial use along with SCADA and other protocols like BAS (Building Autromation System) for remote monitoring.
MODBUS is also popular for remote control and administering utilities and sewage treatment facilities.
www.automationstop.com
