Mastering analog modules in TIA Portal: The ultimate guide!

Mastering analog modules in TIA Portal: The ultimate guide!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Adding and Configuring Analog Input Module 2.1. Accessing Device Configuration 2.2. Adding Analog Input Module 2.3. Module Properties 2.4. Module Parameters 2.4.1. Startup Comparison 2.4.2. Channel Template 2.4.3. Supply Voltage 2.4.4. Overflow and Underflow Errors 2.4.5. Measuring Type and Variance 2.4.6. Common Mode Error 2.4.7. Interference Frequency Suppression 2.4.8. Smoothing Signal 2.4.9. Dimensional Coverage
3. Channel Parameters 3.1. Hardware Interrupt 3.2. High and Low Limits
4. I/O Addressing
5. Organization Block

Adding and Configuring Analog Input Module

In this article, we will discuss how to add and configure an analog input module in a PLC system. The analog input module allows for the conversion of physical signals to digital values for processing within the PLC. We will go through the step-by-step process of accessing the device configuration, adding the analog input module, setting module properties, configuring module parameters, and addressing the I/O.

Introduction

A PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) system is widely used in industrial automation to control and monitor various processes. The analog input module is an essential component of a PLC system as it allows for the measurement and conversion of analog signals from sensors or other devices to digital values that can be processed by the PLC.

Adding and Configuring Analog Input Module

To add an analog input module to the PLC system, follow these steps:

Accessing Device Configuration

1. Go to the "Device and Network" section or navigate to "PLC_1" in the device configuration.
2. Double-click on "Device Configuration" to open the device view.

Adding Analog Input Module

1. Open the hardware catalog from the top right corner of the screen.
2. In the hardware catalog, select the "AI" folder to view available analog input modules.
3. Choose the appropriate analog input module Based on your requirements, such as voltage, Current, RTD, or thermocouple measurement.
4. Double-click on the selected module to add it to your configuration.

Module Properties

Once the analog input module is added, You can modify its properties as per your requirements. From the properties window, you can rename the module if needed.

Module Parameters

The module parameters provide various configuration options for the analog input module. These parameters include:

Startup Comparison

This option determines how the PLC will behave if the configured analog input module is missing from the physical rack. You can choose to start the PLC even if there is a mismatch between the configured module and the actual module present.

Channel Template

The channel template allows you to configure common settings for multiple channels simultaneously. You can set parameters such as supply voltage limits, overflow and underflow errors, and measuring Type.

Supply Voltage

Specify the supply voltage limits for the analog input module. This ensures that appropriate error messages are generated if the supply voltage deviates from the specified range.

Overflow and Underflow Errors

Set the threshold values for overflow and underflow errors. These errors occur when the measured voltage exceeds or falls below the specified measuring range.

Measuring Type and Variance

Choose the measuring type for the analog input module, such as voltage, current, RTD, or thermocouple. Additionally, specify the measuring variance for accurate readings.

Common Mode Error

Common mode voltage refers to the noise or interference present in the analog signal due to power cables or other sources. Configure the common mode error settings to suppress this interference.

Interference Frequency Suppression

If there is interference from AC power cables, select the dominant frequency of the power supply to suppress the noise signal.

Smoothing Signal

The smoothing signal option helps stabilize the analog signal and is useful for slow variation signals like thermocouples. Choose the appropriate smoothing level based on your requirements.

Dimensional Coverage

This view presents a comprehensive overview of the dimensional coverage for the analog input module. It shows potential errors such as overflow, underflow, and common mode errors.

Channel Parameters

Once the module parameters are set, you can configure channel-specific settings such as hardware interrupt and high/low limits for each channel.

Hardware Interrupt

Configure the hardware interrupt based on your requirements. This allows the PLC to generate an interrupt when the measured value exceeds a specified limit, indicating an anomaly.

High and Low Limits

Set the high and low limits for each channel to define the valid measurement range. If the measured value exceeds these limits, the PLC can generate an error or take appropriate action.

I/O Addressing

Assign the I/O address for the analog input module. Ensure that the address does not conflict with other modules in the system. This enables communication between the PLC and the analog input module.

Organization Block

The organization block is responsible for automatically updating and calling the analog input module in the PLC program. Use the default automatic update option to let the CPU decide when to call the organization block.

By following these steps, you can successfully add and configure an analog input module in a PLC system. This module allows for precise measurement and conversion of analog signals, enabling smooth operation and control of industrial processes.

Pros:

• Accurate measurement of analog signals
• Configurable settings for different types of measurements
• Ability to handle multiple channels
• Detection of overflow, underflow, and common mode errors
• Hardware interrupt feature for anomaly detection

Cons:

• Need to correctly configure module parameters for accurate readings
• Requires knowledge of analog signal characteristics and measurement ranges

In conclusion, the analog input module is a crucial component in a PLC system, allowing for the precise measurement and conversion of analog signals. By following the steps provided, users can easily add and configure an analog input module in their PLC systems, enabling accurate monitoring and control of industrial processes.