Programmable Terminals
What is a Programmable Terminal?
Programmable Terminals (PTs) are advanced operator interfaces that automatically display information and perform actions as needed in automated production environments.
Operations of PT at FA production sites
Monitoring Line Operating Status
You can view the real-time system and device status and enhance data visualization through graphs for easier comprehension.
Control Panel Switches
The PT screen allows the creation of various switches, and user input on the touch panel can be transmitted to the host during operation.
Instructions for FA Staff
PTs serve to alert operators of system or device errors and provide guidance on necessary countermeasures.
PT Operation
Transmission of Screen Data
Screen data displayed on the PT originates from screen creation software on a PC and is then sent to the PT via RS-232C, Ethernet, or USB.
Display a screen
Generate screen data using PC screen creation software and transmit it to the PT. Display desired screens by host command or touch switch operation.
Read Data from host
Establish a connection with the host through transmission methods like NT link, Ethernet, or Controller Link, then retrieve the necessary data.
Send Data to host
Transfer input data (button status, numbers, and text) from the touch panel to the host.
Communication with the HOST
Communication Method
Apart from serving as a host for direct PLC connection, you can also establish a connection using memory link with devices like a Single Board Computer (SBC).
The features are as follows:
Direct Access Method
Utilizing the direct access method, you can access PLC memory to manage display data and allocate it for input data storage. This approach facilitates direct manipulation of allocated data, modification of PT screen display, and PT status control.
Moreover, a PT can communicate with multiple PLCs through host name registration, enabling access to the PLC area using specified host names, addresses, and variables.
Under the direct access method, one of the following methods is used to connect a PT with the host.
Memory Link Method
A microcomputer or personal computer can connect to a PT via Memory Link. The PT uses a serial board to establish the connection. Commands sent from the host to the PT enable screen status changes and data input updates.
System Configuration Examples
Screen Creation
To use a PT, it is necessary to design screens with screen creation software.
Screen Creation Software
Operation
Host: Controls the PT as necessary while controlling machines and monitoring production lines.
You can establish connections with the CS- (-V1 or later), CJ-, CP-, C-, or CVM1/CV- series Programmable Controller, or the NJ/NX-series Machine Automation Controller.
Refer to the PT’s user manual or setup manual for more information.
PT-to-PLC connecting cable: Used to connect the PT to the PLC for communications.
Omron RS-232C cable options: XW2Z-200T (2 m) and XW2Z-500T (5 m). For NV-series PTs, use XW2Z-200T-4 (2 m) or XW2Z-500T-3(5 m). PTs with Ethernet support can communicate via Ethernet.
Communications Methods between OMRON PLCs and PTs
PT Types and Features
You can select from the following five series of PTs according to price, performance, and functionality.
NA Series
Faster, more efficient control and monitoring
Widescreen in all models: 7, 9, 12, and 15 inches
A dynamic, intuitive, and predictive HMI enhances industrial machine competitiveness. OMRON’s HMI fosters efficient control, a closer operator-machine relationship, and evolves with changing needs, ensuring real-time responsiveness.
The NA Series, as part of the system family, integrates seamlessly with the entire machine.
The feature-rich, economic programmable terminal
The NB HMI series by OMRON blends intelligent design and premium features, ensuring reliability throughout the range.Ideal for OMRON’s CP1 compact machine controllers, it offers screen sizes from 3.5 to 10 inches, catering to diverse industries.
The NB series excels in design, making it an economical yet appealing choice for HMI applications.
Even simpler equipment operation with outstanding synergy
Connecting to Omron PLCs and components reduces work and costs, providing a comprehensive feature set from one manufacturer.
By linking to the NJ-series Machine Automation Controller, users can swiftly implement new features, simplify troubleshooting processes, and enhance programming efficiency through the integration of innovative data types and structures.
Compact and simple, extremely high cost performance
The NV Series compact Programmable Terminals not only meet basic requirements for visibility, simplicity, and cost but also offer exceptional PLC compatibility, ensuring user-friendly operation and optimal cost-effectiveness.
NT Series
Better compatibility and easier-to-use support software
System construction is made easier through device monitoring and I/O comment loading functions.
The NT Support Software offers enhanced capabilities, including reusable screen data and robust simulation during editing.
This software also enables seamless on-site system maintenance by facilitating the transfer of system programs and screen data, ultimately improving on-site work efficiency.
A wide range of communications interfaces are available
Interested to find out more about Omron Programmable Terminals? Feel free to contact us!
