Newsletter Features

Invaluable PLC Diagnostic Tool - "PLC-ANALYZER Pro 5"

For more information please visit the Autem website at, http://www.autem.de/e_index.htm

As people start to replace older PCs & laptops with new machines, they are finding that some PLC manufacturer’s software will not run properly!

As you might guess, there are compatibility issues not only with Windows Vista but also, as most modern laptops do not have a serial port, with using a USB connection to the PLC.

Over the next three issues of the Newsletter, we will be explaining how you get around some of these problems in a cost effective manner.  For example, some of the people who sell Siemens PLC equipment report that Siemens do not yet have a solution for a workable version of STEP 7 running under Vista (they are working on it right now)!  When it does become available, it will probably be another Service Pack which (unless you have a software support contract), will no doubt cost.

The good news is that STEP 7 will run under Vista (you do not necessarily have to buy the new Service Pack – when it becomes available).

And, as regards the USB connection, again no problem; you do not necessarily have to purchase the Siemens USB Adapter cable.

For those of you who will be keen to get underway with this right away, download a copy of the Microsoft Virtual PC from here.  The software is free & allows you to install a "Virtual PC" with its own operating system on your hard drive.  For example, on your new PC/laptop, which may be running Windows Vista, you can create a "Virtual PC" with its own operating system (say Windows XP Professional) & you can then install the software which you know will run under XP Pro.  You are not limited to a single "Virtual PC", you can install numerous.

However, there is a downside.  The Microsoft Virtual PC does not support the USB interface.  If you want to use USB communications, you will need a different solution.  VMWare has a solution called 'Workstation 6' which supports USB communications.  An evaluation copy can be downloaded from here.  The full version of VMWare Workstation 6 can be purchased from their website for around £100.

If you are going to download the evaluation copy or decide to purchase the software, take care, there are many different versions.

We have been asked by a number of clients to help them install, set up & get the software running together with the PLC manufacturer's software.  We can send an engineer to site to help you with this but we are also planning to hold 1 day training sessions to help companies look after this themselves.

If you want any help or if you would be interested in the training call us on 01933 440679 or email us on newsletter@intacs-training.co.uk for further details.