Communicating between Vision Builder and GE Fanuc PLC

[NoleBrain22]

Hello, I am using Vision Builder AI version 2012 and attempting to communicate with a GE Fanuc VersaMax PLC (IC200UDR164). The PLC and VBAI need to talk to one another to deliver messages based on a pass/fail criteria and associated robotic tasks. This PLC supports SNP/SNPX master and slave, Modbus RTU master and slave, and Serial I/O by default. It can be modified with an expansion card for Ethernet IP. With my current configuration I would like to learn how to set up a serial communication with the PLC. I've spent some time looking at each communication interface in VBAI, serial I/O commands can be sent and received rather easily. The problem I am facing is how to configure the GE Fanuc PLC to look for a specific serial command or send one to Vision Builder. If there is an easier recommened way to do this I am open to making adjustments. Hope to get some insight on this. Thanks!

-Eric

[PatJamSim]

Hello Eric,

If your computer has established a serial connection with the PLC, then its specified serial port (COM1, COM2, etc.) should populate the serial communication field in VBAI automatically.  As such, you should first attempt to communicate with your device outside of VBAI through Measurement and Automation Explorer, Hyperterminal, or the Windows Device Manager.  This link describes the process, along with troubleshooting steps.  For instructions on Hyperterminal (extremely useful!) click the related link from that document entitled Serial Products Troubleshooting Wizard.

If you would prefer to look into Modbus, then here is a similar document describing Modbus with VBAI.  In terms of communication protocols, when choosing between SNP/SNPX serial or Modbus RTU, you should choose whichever you are familiar with.  Since SNP/SNPX was created specifically for the GE devices, it may be the best protocol to implement, but the similarities between the two protocols appear to outweigh any advantages or disadvantages I have come across.  Good luck with your implementation!

[파란]

안녕하세요

[MoviJOHN]

Your question would be better answered in a PLC forum, as it is there that you will find the expertise to program the PLC to respond to serial messages.

If you have DIO hardware available for your PC, discreet IO would be the way to go.  Yes, you would have to run wires, but it is the simplest, most reliable method of connecting disparate systems,