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Getting Started
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is required to get started using the OP--640 in my application?
A.
You must read this manual and understand the OP-panel requirements and
application concepts. You must have programming knowledge for the PLC product
you’re using, the PLC serial communications capabilities which are available, as
well as hook-up and connecting cable data.
Q. How do I configure the OP--640 operator panel?
A.
Using the OP-WINEDIT configuration software available from Automationdirect
.
This software allows you to configure the OP-panels in a Microsoft Windows
t
environment. You may configure your programs offline, upload, and/or download
them to your OptiMate panel. The OP-WINEDIT software is provided with
installation documentation and Help screens.
NOTE:
OP--WINEDIT version 2.3 or later is required.
Q. Can the OP--640 be used with other PLC products?
A.
Yes. The OP--640 does support Allen-Bradley SLC 5/03, SLC 5/04, and
Micrologix.
Q. What are the power supply requirements for the OP--640?
A.
The OP--640 panel requires a 24VDC external power supply. See the
Specifications for details.
Q. Will the OP-panels support graphics, animation, or color operator display screens?
A.
No. The OP-panels which support display capabilities allow numeric data display,
and some panels will also allow text message display.
Q. Can I connect more than one OP-panel to one PLC/CPU?
A.
Yes, this is referred to as a Multi-Panel application. You may network up to 31
panels to communicate using RS-422 multi-drop communications between the
OP-panels and OP-9001 Communications Master unit. Also, if your CPU has
secondary ports, you may connect a single panel to each available serial port.
Q. Why does my panel lose communication after being in service for a period of time?
A.
Once a panel gains communication with a PLC there are only a few reasons why it
does not continue: 1) RFI from nearby motors, welders, starters, etc. causing
anything from memory corruption to damaged driver chips; and 2) an inadequate
power supply.
Q. When I have my panel connected to a DL205, my LCD and/or lamps work, but my pushbuttons
don’t...why?
A.
The Optimate module cannot WRITE to the PLC’s memory when the CPU’s
RUN/TERM switch is in the Run position, therefore only the LCD and/or lamps
visually function. The CPU should be set to the Term position in order for the
Optimate panel to write to it.