Set up and control "counter" in S7-300 by OPC and LabVIEW

[Echion]

Hi everyone,

I am using a PLC S7-300 and OPC Server for my projects. I have a problem: S7-300 has a counter module which count digital signal. I only can set it up by using SIMATIC STEP 7. Can I set up counter module by only using OPC Server and LabVIEW

does anyone have any solution or any idea for my problem?

could you please help me...

thank you

[GerdW]

Hi Echlon,

accessing the OPC server of your S7 only provides access to already existing items (aka PLC variables).

You need to program your PLC using methods provided by Siemens (aka Simatic). Create your counter, connect it to the OPC server and access it using LabVIEW…

[Echion]

Thanks GerdW,

So, there is no way to set up counter module with OPC Server. Can I use NI-DAQ, can it solve my problem?

[GerdW · Accepted solution]

Hi Echion,

NI-DAQ(mx) is used just for NI-Hardware: no you can't use it.

To program the PLC you need to use the right programming environment. For Siemens S7 you need to use Simatic (or maybe some other 3rd party software supporting IEC61131). Point.

The OPC server is used just for data exchange. It's no programming interface!