EPLAN Software & Service, March 2002

EPLAN 21 up2date
As summer draws closer, the launch of the new release of EPLAN 21, Version 3.3, is fast approaching. When updating the software, our developers devoted particular attention to all PLC functions, whose significance in electrical engineering has increased dramatically. As solution-providers, EPLAN Software & Service have integrated a number of interfaces and functions to support the user with project planning and provide assistance with subsequent revisions and trouble-shooting.

Accurate, user-friendly planning
With the new I/O cards dialogue, the properties of terminals can be determined much more easily and accurately. To this end, we have integrated new input fields such as symbolic address, function text (multi-lingual versions supported) and PLC terminal number, which support all terminal definitions and make them visible at a glance. Beginning with allocation to the individual I/O cards, other connections such as card power supply, connection supply and bus connection may also be defined, in addition to digital and analog inputs/outputs. Depending on these connection properties, more detailed definitions of the terminals may be given using additional connection sub-categories.

Defining symbolic addresses
EPLAN 21 V.3.3 also supports the editing of symbolic addresses, which are important to the PLC programmer. These can be written back in the program via the PLC assistant. If the circuit diagram is generated first, as is often the case in practice, the connected device can be transferred in the form of a symbolic address if required. This saves time and also helps to avoid data inconsistencies. 

PLC assistant for neighbouring disciplines
By exporting via the PLC assistant, an allocation list allows the user to supply data for further editing by the PLC programmer, and also to compare information which has been modified and appended by the programmer with the EPLAN project. This eliminates time-consuming multiple data inputs, which can often be a source of errors.

Easy navigation – Reliable testing
PLC terminals often need to be completely or partially resorted and addressed. This is particularly true if parts are added from existing projects or sample projects, or an existing PLC is exchanged for a different one. With the I/O cards dialogue, the connections may be sorted either individually, block-by-block, or en masse. The terminals can then be re-addressed. As is customary with EPLAN 21, the revision immediately becomes available in the circuit diagram, since the system's object orientation means that all stages of the process have been executed online. The additionally integrated test routines automatically prevent input errors relating to address designations or positioning on the card.

Last edited: 2003-01-15 09:14