What is an interface?
This package provides various interfaces for connecting to external applications. Multiple interfaces can be used at the same time, allowing multiple applications with different interfaces to connect at the same time.
It also has the ability to connect as a client to other server applications.
Compatible interface
The interfaces supported by this package are as follows:
Interface |
explanation |
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DA1.0/2.0 compliant. Can be connected to applications that support OPC, such as SCADA and Visual Basic. |
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Compliant with EX_Table and CF_Text. Can connect to various SCADA, Excel, VisualBasic via DDE. |
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A communication protocol unique to our products. By using a communication library (ActiveX) for connecting to IPLink, it is possible to connect to server applications from VisualBasic, etc. |
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FA-Server can be operated in a duplicated (main/sub) configuration. Normally the sub will be in standby mode until the main stops. |
Of the above tables, the OPC, DDE, and IPLink interfaces support both server and client functions.
Example of connection to external application
The communication protocol for each interface is a "client/server" method, where an application with client functionality connects to an application with server functionality. The "OPC", "DDE", and "IPLink" interfaces not only use this package as a server, but also have the ability to connect to other servers as a client.
This package also allows communication with multiple PLCs of different models. Multiple clients can connect simultaneously with different interfaces, and it can also be used as a gateway between different models of PLCs.
In addition, the devices that can be connected as lower level devices are not limited to PLCs; it is possible to connect as a client to OPC servers, DDE servers, ODBC databases, Microsoft Excel, virtual PLCs, etc.
Use as a server
To use this package as a server, follow the steps below.
1.The interface can be configured from the “Interface” icon in the tree selection view of FA-Server.
2.Some interface types may be disabled by default, so when using an interface, make sure that the interface you want to use is enabled.
Use as a client
When connecting this package as a client to other server applications such as OPC or DDE, select the driver you want to connect to by adding a tag unit.
1.To use an interface as a client, click the "Tag" icon in the tree on the left side of the screen. Add the client interface you want to use from the network by adding a unit.
(driver list)
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For details on using the client function, see Network Driver. |
