Output reset

Direct addressing

Step control

Step activation/ deactivation

SFC task control

Step timer readings/ updates Executing and ending SFC tasks
Stopping SFC tasks (output reset or output hold) Force Step Online Editing

Array variables

Action Qualifiers (AQ) (11 types) + action Note 1: There is no restriction on the number of action blocks allocated to a step. Note 2: If there are multiple action programs in the same step, the execution order is determined by the order (top to bottom) that the action programs are listed in the project workspace. Note 3: An action program is executed just once per cycle (unlike the CV-series SFC operation), even if the action program is used in multiple steps and the multiple steps are active at the same time. N, P, P1, P0, L, D, R, S, SL, SD, DS Boolean address bits (Boolean variables or actual addresses) or action programs Note 1: A ladder or ST program can be used for an action program. Note 2: Function blocks can be used for action programs. When a step has become inactive, the action blocks outputs can be reset by any one of the following methods. Select the output reset in the actions properties (unless the action is Boolean or an ST program). The reset operation depends upon the type of program added, as follows. Specified bit: Reset. Ladder program: The default setting is to reset outputs. If you do not want the outputs reset, specify that in the action programs properties. ST program: Not reset. An actual address can be specified for an action or transition using an SFC charts Boolean action/transition or a ladder program. Only variables can be used to specify addresses in ST programs. (Direct addressing is not possible.) Steps in an SFC chart can be activated or deactivated from the following ladder programs (by using the SA step activation instruction and the SE step deactivation instruction). * Ladder program outside of SFC programs * Action ladder program within an SFC program * Action ladder program within another SFC program Time elapsed since the activation of a step can be read and updated (by using the TSR read step timer value instruction and the TSW set step timer value instruction). 0 to 6553.5 sec (Unit: 100 millisecond), or 0 to 65535 sec (Unit: 1 sec) The execution and ending of SFC tasks can be controlled from the ladder program with the SFC Task Control Instructions. Execute: If the SFC task was completed, the SFC task status is completely reset and execution proceeds from the initial step. If the SFC task was stopped, the SFC task is executed from the step where the task was stopped. End: The status of outputs is held, and the SFC task is ended. SFC tasks can be stopped (outputs reset or outputs held) from the ladder program with the SFC Task Control Instructions. Output reset: Resets the outputs, and pauses the SFC task. Output hold: Retains the output status, and pauses the SFC task. Transitions can be force-set/force-reset online, for a step-by-step execution. Allows SFC chart editing, actions addition/deletion, and transitions addition/deletion. Note: Choose between standard mode (transfer with source code) and quick mode (transfer without SFC source code). Array variables are supported for SFC, ladder, and ST programs.

* The maximum number of transition programs, action programs, and subcharts is as follows (when using function blocks, number of definitions are included): CJ2H CPU Units: 2,048 max. CJ2M CPU Units: CJ2M-CPU@1/@2/@3: 256 max. CJ2M-CPU@4/@5: 2,048 max. CS1H /CJ1H CPU Units: 1024 max. CJ1M CPU Units: 256 max.

Window Components

This section describes the CX-Programmers SFC chart editing functions and functions related to the SFC editor. For details on other functions, refer to the CX-Programmer Operation Manual (Cat. No. W446).

SFC Editor

SFC elements can be inserted and connected in the CX-Programmers SFC editor to create sequential step programs. The project workspace and SFC editor can be displayed in a horizontally or vertically split window, so that the structural relationship between the SFC chart and action block (or transition program) can be clearly understood.
SFC Editor Project Workspace

Project Workspace

SFC programming elements are hierarchically displayed and managed. The Project Workspace is also known as the Project Tree.
SFC Program Local Variable Action Folder Action Programs (Ladder or ST) Transition Folder Transition Programs (Ladder or ST) Subchart Folder Subchart Programs
SFC Programs SFC programs are registered as child items of the Programs folder in the project workspace. Task allocation is required to execute the SFC program. Symbol Tables Variables are automatically registered in the symbol table, corresponding to the SFC elements created in the SFC chart. The variables registered here are used as local variables in the SFC chart. Also, the user can register the variables that are required while writing the SFC program. Actions Folder and Action Programs Action programs are registered in the Actions folder under the SFC program structure. An action program describes the step actions in ladder or ST. Action programs are associated to an action block within an SFC chart by selecting the relevant action name.
Transitions Folder and Transition Programs Transition programs are registered in the Transitions folder under the SFC program. A transition program describes the step progression conditions, which need to be expressed by multiple input signals or by the more complex ladder or ST logic. Transition programs are associated with an SFC charts transition by selecting the same transition name.

Subcharts Folder and Subchart Programs Subchart programs are registered in the Subcharts folder under the SFC program. A subchart program allows an SFC program with large-scale step progression control to be developed in parts, improving the reusability and visibility of the program and allowing for more structured programming of the SFC program. Subchart programs are subcharts for SFC charts and are associated with an SFC chart by selecting the same subchart name. In program view, it is possible to check whether an SFC subchart is a partial SFC chart of the SFC program.
Displays an SFC chart or subchart. By providing a split SFC view and program view display, the SFC chart can be viewed simultaneously with the associated action program or transition program.
SFC Editor Display Customization Select Tools - Options from the menu, and then the Appearance or SFC tab to customize the SFC editor display. For details on customizing the SFC editor display, refer to 1-3-6 Environmental Settings Unique to the SFC Programming Functions. SFC View Displays an SFC chart or subchart. Program View Displays the action program, transition program, or subchart for the action block, transition, or subchart step, selected in the SFC view. The action program, transition program, or subchart program can be edited in program view, while viewing the SFC chart in the SFC editor.
This menu is displayed when the SFC editor is displayed in the main editing window and has the cursor focus. Menu items are enabled and disabled depending on which SFC element is selected in the SFC editor.
Menu Edit Step Name Edit Transition Condition Edit Action Name Sub-Menu Function Enables editing of the selected step name. Enables editing of a selected transition name. Displays a combo box in the selected action block, enabling selection of the action program name. Displays a combo box in the action qualifier of the selected action block, enabling action qualifier selection. Enables editing of the selected action blocks action qualifier timer. Enables editing of the selected action blocks indicator variable.

Edit Menu

Edit Action Qualifier
Edit Action Qualifier Time Edit Action Indicator Variable

Edit Connections

Add Connection To SFC Element Add Connection From SFC Element Delete Connection To SFC Element Delete Connection From SFC Element
Tidy Element Positions Tidy Descendant Element Positions
Draws out a connection from the topside of the selected SFC element. Draws out a connection from the downside of the selected SFC element. Deletes the connection on the topside of the selected SFC element. Deletes the connection on the downside of the selected SFC element. Arranges all of the elements in the SFC chart. Arranges the SFC chart elements positioned after the selected SFC element.

View Menu

This menu is enabled only when the display magnifier for the SFC editor has been changed.
Menu Zoom Reset Function Resets the scaling ratio of the SFC editor to 100%.

Insert Menu

This menu is enabled only when the SFC editor is displayed.
Menu Step Function When a bottom transition is selected, this item adds a step and connects it to the transition. When a transition is not selected, it inserts an independent step. When a bottom transition is selected, this item adds a subchart step and connects it to the transition. When a transition is not selected, it inserts an independent subchart step. When a bottom step is selected, this item adds a transition and connects it to the step. When a step is not selected, it inserts an independent transition. When a bottom step is selected, this item adds a divergence and 2 transitions, and connects them to the step. When a step is not selected, it adds a step, a divergence, and 2 transitions. When a conditionally-branched bottom transition is selected, this item adds a convergence and a step, and connects them to the transition. When a bottom transition is selected, this item adds a simultaneous sequence divergence and 2 steps, and connects them to the transition. When a transition is not selected, it adds a transition, a simultaneous sequence divergence, and 2 steps. When a parallel-branched bottom step is selected, this item adds a simultaneous sequence convergence and a transition, and connects them to the step.

Subchart Step

Transition

Divergences

Convergences
Simultaneous Sequence Divergences
Simultaneous Sequence Convergences

Step and Transition

Transition and Step
Simultaneous Convergent Step Above Convergent Transition Above Connector
When a bottom transition is selected, this item adds a step and a transition, and connects them to the transition. When a bottom step is selected, this item adds a transition and a step, and connects them to the step. Inserts a step on the topside of a simultaneous sequence convergence. Inserts a transition on the topside of a convergence. Draws a connection from an SFC element that does not have a connection in the SFC chart.

Program Menu

Menu Transfer SFC/ST Source to PLC (Online Edit) Release FB/SFC/ST, Online Edit Access Rights Function When an SFC program revision is being transferred in quick mode during online SFC chart editing, only the SFC source code is transferred later. Makes PLC access rights invalid in the event of process interruption, due to communication error during online SFC chart editing.

Online Edit

SFC Editor Pop-up Menu
This section describes menus, which are displayed by right-clicking within the SFC editor. The menu displayed depends on which SFC element is selected. Furthermore, menu items are enabled and disabled depending on the connected state of SFC elements.

Right-Clicking a Step

The step elements menu for working online differs from that for working offline.

Offline Pop-Up Menu

Menu Edit Step Name Step Type Normal Initial Entry Return Step Timer Use Millisecond Timer Use Second Timer Boolean Action New Ladder Action New Structured Text Action Existing Action Show Action Blocks Add Transition and Step Add Transition Insert Step and Transition Above Sub-Menu Function Enables editing of the selected step name. Changes the selected step to a normal step. Changes the selected step to an initial step. Changes the selected step to a entry step. Changes the selected step to a return step. Sets the step timer unit to 100 milliseconds. Sets the step timer unit to 1 second. Adds a Boolean variable or actual address to the selected step. Creates a new ladder program, and adds it to the selected step. Creates a new ST program, and adds it to the selected step. Adds an already registered action to the selected step. Shows hidden action blocks. Adds a transition and a step, and connects them to the selected step. Adds a transition and connects it to the selected step. Adds a transition and a step, and connects them to the topside of the selected step. Adds a transition to the topside of the selected step. Adds a divergence and 2 transitions, and connects them to the selected step. Adds a simultaneous sequence convergence and a transition, and connects them to the selected step.

Add Action

Insert Transition Above Add Divergences
Add Simultaneous Sequence Convergence

Connections

Add Connection Add Jump to Step

Add Connection To Step

Delete Connection To Step Draw Connections to Step as Jump Add Connection From Step
Delete Connection From Step Open Subchart Definition Cut Copy Paste Delete Tidy Descendant SFC Elements
Opens the Add Connection dialog. Draws out a connection from the topside of the selected step, and connects it to the downside of the transition that is to become the jump starting point. Draws out a connection from the topside of the selected step, and connects it to the downside of a transition. Deletes the connection on the topside of the selected step. Changes the topside of the selected step to a jump. Draws out a connection from the downside of the selected step, and connects it to the topside of a transition. Deletes the connection on the downside of the selected step. Opens a subchart. Cuts the selected step to the clipboard. Copies the selected step to the clipboard. Pastes the contents of the clipboard. Deletes the selected step. Arranges elements of the SFC chart positioned after the selected step.

Online Pop-Up Menu

Menu Force Step Sub-Menu On Off Cancel Function Activates the selected step. Deactivates the selected step. Cancels the forced status. Updates the step timer value. Opens a subchart. Shows hidden action blocks. Arranges elements of the SFC chart positioned after the selected step.
Set Step Timer Value Open Subchart Definition Show Action Blocks Tidy Descendant SFC Elements
Right-Clicking a Transition
The transition elements menu for working online differs from that for working offline.
Menu Edit Transition Condition Add Step and Transition Sub-Menu Function Enables editing of the selected transition condition. Adds a step and a transition, and connects them to the selected transition. Adds a step and connects it to the selected transition. Adds a transition and a step, and connects them to the topside of the selected transition.
Add Step Insert Transition and Step Above
Insert Step Above Add Convergence
Add Simultaneous Sequence Divergence
Add Connection Add Jump From Transition
Add Connection From Transition Delete Connection From Transition Draw Connections From Transition as Jump Add Connection To Transition

Add Subchart Step

Delete Connection To Transition New Subchart

Existing Subchart

Open Transition Definition Cut Copy Paste Delete Tidy Descendant SFC Elements
Adds a step to the topside of the selected transition Adds a convergence and a step, and connects them to the selected transition. Adds a simultaneous sequence divergence and 2 steps, and connects them to the selected transition. Opens the Add Connection dialog. Draws out a connection from the downside of the selected transition, and connects it to the topside of the step that is to become the jump destination. Draws out a connection from the downside of the selected transition, and connects it to the topside of a step. Deletes the connection on the topside of the selected transition. Changes the topside of the selected transition to a jump. Draws out a connection from the topside of the selected isolated transition, and connects it to the downside of a step. Deletes the connection on the downside of the selected transition. Creates and adds a new subchart, and connects it to the selected transition as a subchart step. Connects an already registered subchart to the selected transition as a subchart step. Opens the selected transition program. Cuts the selected transition to the clipboard. Copies the selected transition to the clipboard. Pastes the contents of the clipboard. Deletes the selected transition. Arranges SFC chart elements positioned after the selected transition.

Add Transition

Add Transition and Step
Add Connection From Convergence
Delete Connection To Convergence Delete Connection From Convergence Cut
Paste Delete Tidy Descendant SFC Elements
Right-Clicking an Action Block
Menu Edit Action Name Sub-Menu Function Displays a combo box in the selected action block, enabling selection of the action program name. Displays a combo box in the action qualifier of the selected action block, enabling action qualifier selection. Enables editing of the selected action blocks action qualifier timer. Opens the selected action program. Adds a Boolean variable or actual address to the selected action block. Creates a new ladder program, and adds it to the selected action block. Creates a new ST program, and adds it to the selected action block.
Edit Action Qualifier Time Open Action Program Definition Add Action Boolean Action New Ladder Action New Structured Text Action
Existing Action Display Indicator Variable on Chart Edit Action Indicator Variable Cut Copy Paste Delete
Adds an already registered action to the selected action block. Indicator valuables may be shown/hidden. Enables editing of the selected action blocks indicator variable. Cuts the selected action block to the clipboard. Copies the selected action block to the clipboard. Pastes the contents of the clipboard. Deletes the selected action block.
Right-Clicking the SFC Editor Background
Menu Add Step Add Subchart Step Sub-Menu New Subchart Existing Subchart Add Transition Add Divergence Add Convergence Add Simultaneous Sequence Divergence Add Simultaneous Sequence Convergence Add Step and Transition Add Transition and Step Add Connector Show All Action Blocks Hide All Action Blocks Cut Copy Paste Delete Select All Tidy All SFC Elements Import/Export Function Inserts an independent step. Creates a new subchart and inserts it as an independent subchart step. Inserts an already registered subchart as an independent subchart step. Inserts an independent transition. Inserts an independent divergence. Inserts an independent convergence. Inserts an independent simultaneous sequence divergence. Inserts an independent simultaneous sequence convergence. Adding a Step and a Transition. Adding a transition and a step. Inserts a connection for the selected SFC element. Displays all action blocks. Hides all action blocks. Pastes the contents of the clipboard. Selects all SFC elements in the SFC chart. Arranges all elements in the SFC chart. Loads a program saved in XML format. Loads a program saved in ST format. Creates program file in XML format. Creates program file in ST format.

Memory Area FB Non Retain FB Retain FB Timer FB Counter SFC Bit SFC Word First Address H512 H1408 T3072 C3072 N/A N/A Default Value End Address H1407 H1535 T4095 C4095 N/A N/A Allocable Area CIO, WR, HR, DM, EM HR, DM, EM TIM CNT -

Size N/A N/A

Note: DM or EM can be used for the "FB Non Retain" memory area. Uncheck the Share SFC with FB Memory checkbox, since neither DM nor EM can be used as memory areas for SFC.
Setting Procedure 1 Select Memory Allocation Function Block/SFC Memory Function Block/SFC Memory Allocation from the PLC menu. The Function Block/SFC Memory Allocation Dialog Box will be displayed. 2 Uncheck the Share SFC with FB Memory checkbox.
Select SFC Bit or SFC Word. Click the Edit Button in the Function Block/SFC Memory Allocation Dialog Box. The Edit Function Block/SFC Memory Range Dialog Box will be displayed.
Select Memory Area and input First Address and Size. Click the OK Button in the Edit Function Block/SFC Memory Range Dialog Box. Click the OK Button in the Function Block/SFC Memory Allocation Dialog Box.
Note: Set the memory areas for both "SFC bit and SFC word.
Subchart Online Editing Function Restrictions
Subcharts cannot be edited during online editing.
SECTION 2 SFC Fundamentals
2-1 2-2 2-3 SFC Basic Operation....42 Basic SFC Execution Cycle....43 Elements of SFC....44
2-3-1 2-3-2 2-3-3 2-3-4 2-3-5 2-3-6 2-3-7 2-3-8 2-3-9 Steps..... 44 Transitions.... 50 Action Blocks.... 52 Divergences.... 59 Convergences.... 59 Simultaneous Sequence Divergences... 60 Simultaneous Sequence Convergences... 60 Connections.... 61 Automatic Registration of SFC Elements as Local Variables... 62

SFC Basic Operation

This section describes the behavior of an SFC program using a basic step progression control.

Step Progression Control

Step progression control is a method of program control in which the execution of each step, consisting of an entire process, is sequential or time-dependant. SFC is a graphical programming language developed to allow step progression control to be easily implemented. Step Ladder has been widely used as a language for describing step progression control, but SFC has visual properties superior to traditional Step Ladder. Consider the following example: Execute Process 1 until Condition A is met, then stop Process 1 and execute Process 2. The following shows the behavior of an SFC program using basic step progression control (Process 1 is executed and, if condition A is met, process 2 is executed) as an example.

In each of the instructions, the step flag is specified as follows: For within the same task [step name].X For within another task [program name].[step name].X In each of the instructions, the step timer is specified as follows: For a step within the same task [step name].T For a step within another task [program name].[step name].T For a subchart step within the same task [subchart name].[step name].T For a subchart step within another task [program name].[subchart name].[step name].T
For details on step flags, refer to the following description under Flags Used to Monitor a Steps Active Status.
Step activation/deactivation instructions can be used for the following purposes. Controlling a Step in an SFC Program from an External Ladder Program
Ladder Program SFC Program

Activate

Deactivate
Controlling a Step in an SFC Program from an Action Ladder Program within the Same SFC Program
Controlling an SFC Step from an Action Ladder Program within Another SFC Program

SFC Program SFC Program

Note: If the SA step control instruction is used to activate another step in the same SFC program from an action ladder program in the SFC program, the activated steps action will be executed in the next cycle. If the SA step control instruction is used to activate a step in a different SFC program from an action ladder program in the SFC program, the activated steps action will be executed in the current or in the next cycle, depending on the order of the SFC program execution task numbers. If the SFC program containing the step activated with the SA step control instruction has already been executed, the activated step will be executed in the next cycle. If the SFC program containing the step activated with the SA step control instruction has not yet been executed, the activated step will be executed in the same cycle.
Step timer value read/set instructions can be used in the same way as step activation/deactivation instructions. A step can have a step timer to maintain the time, which has elapsed since the step became active. For each step, the time unit on the step timer can be set to either of the following:
100 milliseconds 1 second The first operand time range for a step timer value instruction reading varies, according to the time unit of the specified step timer, as follows. 100 milliseconds 0 to 6553.5 seconds 1 second 0 to 65535 seconds Actions with the action qualifier D, DS, or L are executed in synchronization with the step timer. Caution should therefore be exercised when making changes to the step timer of a step, which has those action qualifiers in its actions. When the step becomes inactive, the step timer is stopped, and the elapsed time data is saved. The step timer is reset when the step becomes active again. When the step timer value reaches the upper limit, the timer will stop and maintain the maximum value.

Jump Entry Step 2

Step2Jump
Step 1 Trans1 Step 2 Trans2 FALSE FALSE
With a jump, an arrow and the step number for the jump destination are described after a transition. A jump entry is represented by an arrow immediately before the jump destination step (after the transition). When the transition conditions for the transition after the jump source step are met, the active status is transferred, provided that the jump destination step is currently in the inactive status.
Procedures: Adding a Jump Right-click a transition, select Connections - Add Jump From Transition to prepare a connection, and then connect it to step, which will become the destination of the jump.
Skip is a divergence, which has a transition element but no step element.

Trans2 Step 3 Trans5

Trans3 Step 4

Trans4

Trans6

Trans7 Step 6 Trans9

Trans8 Step 7

Trans10

Step 8
Procedures: Adding a Skip Right-click a convergence, select Connections - Add Connection To Convergence to prepare a connection, and then connect it to the transition to be skipped.
Automatic Registration of SFC Elements as Local Variables
When a step, an action program, a transition, action with a bit specification, or an SFC element for a subchart is created, a system variable is automatically registered in the local symbol table.
SECTION 3 Offline Operations
3-1 Creating an SFC Program...64
3-1-1 3-1-2 3-1-3 Creating a New Project.... 64 Creating (Inserting) a New SFC Program... 64 Allocating an SFC Program to a Task.... 65 Default Elements of an SFC Program.... 67 Editing (Inputting) a Transition.... 68 Adding an Action to a Step (or to the Initial Step)... 70 Adding a Transition.... 75 Adding a Step.... 76 Inserting Immediately Before a Step or Transition.. 77 Creating a Divergence/Convergence... 77 Creating a Simultaneous Sequence Divergence/Convergence.. 79 Adding a Subchart.... 81 Connecting to the Initial Step with a Jump (or Loop)... 84 Editing Independent (Isolated) SFC Elements... 85 Tidying an SFC Chart.... 87 Changing the Step Type... 87 Searching within an SFC Chart.... 88 Substituting within an SFC Chart... 88 Cross-Reference Report... 89 Address Reference Tool... 89 SFC Program Check.... 90 Checking All Programs.... 90 Array Variables.... 91 Printing.... 92

Inserting a Transition and a Step Before a Step
A transition and a step can be inserted before a transition. 1 Right-click a transition, and select Insert Transition and Step Above from the pop-up menu.
Creating a Divergence/Convergence

Creating a Divergence

Adding 2 Transitions A divergence can be added after a step (or subchart step). 1 Right-click a step (or subchart step), and select Add Divergence from the pop-up menu.
A divergence and 2 subsequent transitions will be added. When using a divergence, add SFC elements so that each branch ends with a transition, enabling a convergence.
Adding More Transitions Branches can be added to a divergence. 1 Right-click an existing divergence, and select Add Divergent Transition Branch from the pop-up menu.
A transition is added to the divergence. When using a divergence, add SFC elements so that each branch ends with a transition, enabling a convergence.
Creating a Conditional Join
Add a convergence to merge conditionally branched SFC chart process flows. In order to add a convergence, each conditionally branched process flow must have a transition as its terminating element. Right-click one of the conditionally branched transitions, and select Add Convergence from the pop-up menu.
A convergence and a subsequent step will be added. 2 Right-click the created convergence, and select Connections - Add Connection from the pop-up menu.
The Add Connection dialog will be displayed. Confirm that the transitions to be joined are selected in the Add Connection dialog, and click OK. The selected transitions will be joined to the convergence.
You can also right-click the convergence, select Connections - Add Connection to Convergence from the pop-up menu, and drag the lead line to the target transition to connect transitions to a convergence. Right-click the line next to a conditional branch and select Use Default Transition Precedence to numerically display the execution order starting from 1. Then double-click the numbers to change the execution order as desired.

Note 1:

Creating a Simultaneous Sequence Divergence/Convergence
Creating a Simultaneous Sequence Divergence

While the PLC is running, the active step element and the action element under execution are displayed in yellowish green. The display color can be changed by selecting Tools Options - Appearance. While in the MONITOR or RUN operating mode, present values will be updated according to the PLCs operation status. (Present value monitor) If an action has an S-series AQ (S, SL, SD), its activity status can be monitored, even while the step itself is in the inactive status.

*2: *3:

If an action has an S-series AQ (S, SL, SD), its activity status can be monitored, even while the action blocks are hidden.
Monitoring the Active Step
The active step can be automatically displayed on the screen. Switch to the online mode as previously described. Select Options - SFC from the Tools menu.
Check the Automatically Show Active Step in Monitoring Mode checkbox and click OK. As the active status is transferred for the SFC editor displayed on the screen, the screen will scroll automatically to display the currently active step.
Monitoring Action/Transition Programs
This section describes how to monitor ladder programs for actions and transitions. ST programs cannot be monitored.
Monitoring Ladder Program Execution
1 In the project workspace double-click the action or transition to be monitored to display the editor window while working online. (*1)
Clicking the number for a hidden action block in an SFC chart will display a spin box. Change the number to switch the required action program displayed on the program view.
For details, refer to 3-2-3 Adding an Action to a Step (or to the Initial Step).
SECTION 5 Debug Operations
5-1 Online Editing....104
5-1-1 5-1-2 5-1-3 Online Editing of SFC Charts.... 104 Online Editing of Actions and Transitions Editing.. 108 Adding Actions/Transitions... 111 Force-Setting/Force-Resetting Transitions... 113 Force-Setting/Force-Resetting Steps.... 114
Force Setting/Force-Resetting...113

5-2-1 5-2-2

5-3 5-4
Set Step Timer Value....115 Work Online Simulator...116
5-4-1 Starting and Ending the Simulator... 116

Online Editing

SFC programs can be edited when the PLC (CPU unit) is operating in MONITOR mode. This means that SFC programs can be debugged or edited even on devices for which around-the-clock operation is required.
Online Editing of SFC Charts
SFC chart can be edited online, as long as the PLC is not in RUN mode.

Starting Online Editing

Start monitoring. In the project workspace, select the SFC program to be edited. The SFC program is displayed in the SFC editor.
Select Program - Online Edit - Begin. The SFC program becomes editable.

Revision code Date June 2007 August 2007 Revised content Original production Pages 104 to 106, 108: Or/and subchart or or/and subcharts removed. Page 113: Information added on force-setting transitions. Page 125: Precautions added. Added upgrade information of CX-Programmer Added upgrade information of CX-Programmer Added upgrade information of CX-Programmer Added upgrade information of CX-Programmer
June 2008 February 2009 December 2009 February 2010

!Caution Confirm safety at the destination node before transferring a program to another node or changing contents of the I/O memory area. Doing either of these without confirming safety may result in injury. !Caution Execute online editing only after confirming that no adverse effects will be caused by extending the cycle time. Otherwise, the input signals may not be readable. !Caution If synchronous unit operation is being used, perform online editing only after confirming that an increased synchronous processing time will not affect the operation of the main and slave axes. !Caution Confirm safety sufficiently before monitoring power flow and present value status in the Ladder Section Window or when monitoring present values in the Watch Window. If force-set/reset or set/reset operations are inadvertently performed by pressing short-cut keys, the devices connected to Output Units may malfunction, regardless of the operating mode of the CPU Unit.
Observe the following precautions when using the CX-Programmer. User programs cannot be uploaded to the CX-Programmer. Observe the following precautions before starting the CX-Programmer. Exit all applications not directly related to the CX-Programmer. Particularly exit any software such as screen savers, virus checkers, E-mail or other communications software, and schedulers or other applications that start up periodically or automatically.
Disable sharing hard disks, printers, or other devices with other computers on any network. With some notebook computers, the RS-232C port is allocated to a modem or an infrared line by default. Following the instructions in documentation for your computer and enable using the RS-232C port as a normal serial port. With some notebook computers, the default settings for saving energy do not supply the rated power to the RS-232C port. There may be both Windows settings for saving energy, as well as setting for specific computer utilities and the BIOS. Following the instructions in documentation for your computer, disable all energy saving settings. Do not turn OFF the power supply to the PLC or disconnect the connecting cable while the CX-Programmer is online with the PLC. The computer may malfunction. Confirm that no adverse effects will occur in the system before attempting any of the following. Not doing so may result in an unexpected operation. Changing the operating mode of the PLC. Force-setting/force-resetting any bit in memory. Changing the present value of any word or any set value in memory. Check the user program for proper execution before actually running it on the Unit. Not checking the program may result in an unexpected operation. When online editing is performed, the user program and parameter area data in CJ2, CS1-H, CJ1-H, CJ1M, and CP1H CPU Units is backed up in the built-in flash memory. The BKUP indicator will light on the front of the CPU Unit when the backup operation is in progress. Do not turn OFF the power supply to the CPU Unit when the BKUP indicator is lit. The data will not be backed up if power is turned OFF. To display the status of writing to flash memory on the CX-Programmer, select Display dialog to show PLC Memory Backup Status in the PLC properties and then select Windows PLC Memory Backup Status from the View Menu. Programs including function blocks (ladder programming language or structured text (ST) language) can be downloaded or uploaded in the same way as standard programs that do not contain function blocks. Tasks including function blocks, however, cannot be downloaded in task units (uploading is possible). If a user program containing function blocks created on the CX-Programmer Ver. 5.0 or later is downloaded to a CPU Unit that does not support function blocks (CS/CJ-series CPU Units with unit version 2.0 or earlier), all instances will be treated as illegal commands and it will not be possible to edit or execute the user program. If the input variable data is not in boolean format, and numerical values only (e.g., 20) are input in the parameters, the actual value in the CIO Area address (e.g., 0020) will be passed. Therefore, be sure to include an &, #, or +, - prefix before inputting the numerical value. Addresses can be set in input parameters, but an address itself cannot be passed as an input variable. (Even if an address is set as an input parameter, the value passed to the function block will be that for the size of data of the input variable.) Therefore, an input variable cannot be used as the operand of an instruction in the function block when the operand specifies the first or last of multiple words. With CX-Programmer version 7.0, use

Outline

A function block is a basic program element containing a standard processing function that has been defined in advance. Once the function block has been defined, the user just has to insert the function block in the program and set the I/O in order to use the function. As a standard processing function, a function block does not contain actual addresses, but variables. The user sets addresses or constants in those variables. These address or constants are called parameters. The addresses used by the variables themselves are allocated automatically by the CX-Programmer for each program.
With the CX-Programmer, a single function block can be saved as a single file and reused in other PLC programs, so standard processing functions can be made into libraries.
Program 2 Copy of function block A
Function block A Standard program section written with variables
Program 1 Copy of function block A Variable Output
Input Define in advance. Insert in program. Set

Variable Variable

Output
Copy of function block A Save function block as a file. Convert to library function. Input Output

Function block A Reuse.

To another PLC program
Advantages of Function Blocks
Function blocks allow complex programming units to be reused easily. Once standard programming is created in a function block and saved in a file, it can be reused just by placing the function block in a program and setting the parameters for the function blocks I/O. The ability to reuse existing function blocks will save significant time when creating/debugging programs, reduce coding errors, and make the program easier to understand.

Structured Programming

Easy-to-read Black Box Design Use One Function Block for Multiple Processes Reduce Coding Errors Black-boxing Know-how Data Protection Improved Reusability with Variable Programming
Structured programs created with function blocks have better design quality and require less development time. The I/O operands are displayed as variable names in the program, so the program is like a black box when entering or reading the program and no extra time is wasted trying to understand the internal algorithm. Many different processes can be created easily from a single function block by using the parameters in the standard process as input variables (such as timer SVs, control constants, speed settings, and travel distances). Coding mistakes can be reduced because blocks that have already been debugged can be reused. Read-protection can be set for function blocks to prevent programming knowhow from being disclosed. The variables in the function block cannot be accessed directly from the outside, so the data can be protected. (Data cannot be changed unintentionally.) The function blocks I/O is entered as variables, so it isnt necessary to change data addresses in a block when reusing it. Processes that are independent and reusable (such as processes for individual steps, machinery, equipment, or control systems) can be saved as function block definitions and converted to library functions.

Variable Usage

Outputs:

In Out:

Externals: External variables are either system-defined variables registered in advance with the CX-Programmer, such as the Condition Flags and some Auxiliary Area bits, or user-defined global symbols for use within instances. For details on variable usage, refer to the section on Variable Type (Usage) under Variable Definitions in 2-1-2 Function Block Elements. The following table shows the number of variables that can be used and the kind of variable that is created by default for each of the variable usages.

Variable Properties

Variables have the following properties. The variable name is used to identify the variable in the function block. It doesnt matter if the same name is used in other function blocks. Note The variable name can be up to 30,000 characters long, but must not begin with a number. Also, the name cannot contain two underscore characters in a row. The character string cannot be the same as that of a an index register such as in IR0 to IR15. For details on other restrictions, refer to Variable Definitions in 2-1-2 Function Block Elements. Select one of the following data types for the variable: BOOL, INT, UINT, DINT, UDINT, LINT, ULINT, WORD, DWORD, LWORD, REAL, LREAL, TIMER, COUNTER, and STRING For details on variable data types, refer to Variable Definitions in 2-1-2 Function Block Elements.

Variable Name

Data Type
AT Settings (Allocation to an Actual Addresses)
It is possible to set a variable to a particular I/O memory address rather than having it allocated automatically by the system. To specify a particular address, the user can input the desired I/O memory address in this property. This property can be set for internal variables only. Even if a specific address is set, the variable name must still be used in the algorithm.
Refer to Variable Definitions in 2-1-2 Function Block Elements for details on AT settings and 2-5-3 AT Settings for Internal Variables for details on using AT settings.

Function block definition A 1. Algorithm Standard program section with variable names a, b, c, etc. Program Input condition Instance of function block definition A

Input 1.00

Output 5.00 Output 6.00
2. Variables Table defining usage and properties of variables a, b, c, etc. Save Read and insert.
Function block definition A Function block definition file (*.cxf)
In the CX-Programmer Ver. 5.0, each function block definition can be compiled and checked as a program. We recommend compiling to perform a program check on each function block definition file before saving or reusing the file.
Version Upgrade Information

Section 1-6

Refer to the CX-Programmer Operation Manual (W446) for information on upgraded functions other than those for function blocks and structure text.
Version 9.0 to 9.1 Upgrade Information
The new CPU Unit models of CJ2M-CPU@@ supporting function blocks and structured text are now supported. When the PLC model is set to the CJ2M, FB Program Area usage can be displayed using the memory view function.
Version 8.3 to 9.0 Upgrade Information
Data Structures Supported as Symbol Data Types
Version 8.3 Data structures are not supported. Version 9.0 CJ2 CPU Units now support data structures as symbol data type.
Version 8.0 to 8.1 Upgrade Information
The new PLC models of CJ2H-CPU6@ supporting function blocks and structured text are now supported.
Version 7.2 to 8.0 Upgrade Information
The new PLC models of CJ2H-CPU6@-EIP supporting function blocks and structured text are now supported.
Version 7.0 to 7.2 Upgrade Information
Improved Support for Function Blocks and Structured Text
For details on the other improvements to CX-Programmer functions in this upgrade, refer to the CX-Programmer Operation Manual (W446). IEC61131-3 Language Improvements Support has been improved for the structured text and SFC languages, which are IEC61131-3 languages. Ladder, structured text (ST), and SFC programming can be combined freely, so that the best language for each process can be used, which reduces program development time and makes the program easier to understand.

ENO CAL CAL

Address D200 is passed to the input-output variable CAL. Inside the function block, the specified data size of I/O memory starting from D200 is processed, and changes are thus passed outside the function block instance.
Input-output variables are specified a CX-Programmer variable table by selecting In Out for the variable usage. Internal Variables Internal variables are used within an instance. These variables are hidden within each instance. They cannot be referenced from outside of the instance and are not displayed in the instance. The values of internal variables are retained until the next time the instance is executed (i.e., when EN turns OFF, the value of the internal variable is retained). Consequently, even if instances of the same function block definition are executed with the same I/O parameters, the result will not necessarily be the same. Example: The internal variable tim_a in instance Pulse_2sON_1sOFF is different from internal variable tim_a in instance Pulse_4sON_1sOFF, so the instances cannot reference and will not affect each others tim_a value.
Pulse_2sON_1sOFF P_On &20 ON_TIME &10 OFF_TIME 1.0

CLOCK PULSE EN ENO

Variable table Name Usage Internal tim_a Internal tim_b ON_TIME Input OFF_TIME Input
Pulse_4sON_1sOFF P_On &40 ON_TIME &10 OFF_TIME CLOCK PULSE EN ENO 1.1

0.0 D100

ADD_INT_DINT EN ENO IN16 OUT32
Internal variable tmp is not displayed.
Variable table Name Internal tmp EN Input IN16 Input IN32 Input Output ENO Output OUT32
Retain Data through Power Interruptions and Start of Operation Internal variables retain the value from the last time that the instance was called. In addition, the Retain Option can be selected so that an internal variable will also retains its value when the power is interrupted or operation starts (the mode is switched from PROGRAM to RUN or MONITOR mode). When the Retain Option is selected, the value of the variable is retained when the power is interrupted or operation starts unless the CPU Unit does not have a backup battery. If the CPU Unit does not have a good battery, the value will be unstable.

Interlock Restrictions

When a function block is called from an interlocked program section, the contents of the function block definition will not be executed. The interlocked function block will behave just like an interlocked subroutine.

P_Off IL FB_BODY FB

Interlocked Interlock will not affect instructions in the function block definition.
Differentiation Instructions in Function Block Definitions
An instance will not be executed while its EN input variable is OFF, so the following precautions are essential when using a Differentiation Instruction in a function block definition. (Differentiation Instructions include DIFU, DIFD, and any instruction with an @ or % prefix.) As long as the instances EN input variable is OFF, the execution condition will retain its previous status (the last status when the EN input variable was ON) and the Differentiation Instruction will not operate.
When the instances EN input variable goes ON, the present execution condition status will not be compared to the last cycles status. The present execution condition will be compared to the last condition when the EN input variable was ON, so the Differentiation Instruction will not operate properly. (If the EN input variable remains ON, the Differentiation Instruction will operate properly when the next rising edge or falling edge occurs.) Example:
0.0 FB1 EN IN1 ENO OUT1 LD EN OR IN1 SET OUT1
These Differentiation Instructions do not operate when input condition 0.00 goes from OFF to ON the first time. The instructions do not operate while input condition 0.00 is OFF.
If Differentiation Instructions are being used, always use the Always ON Flag (P_On) for the EN input condition and include the instructions input condition within the function block definition.

P_ On FB1 EN 0.00 a IN 1

The EN input condition is always ON, so these Differentiation Instructions operate normally. Body

ENO O UT1

LD a OR I N1 SET OUT1
Input a decimal numerical value after # when specifying the first operand of the following instructions. MILH(517), MILR(518), MILC(519), DIM(631), MSKS(690), MSKR(692), CLI(691), FAL(006), FALS(007), TKON(820), TKOF(821) Note & is not supported. CNR(545), CNRX(547) (RESET TIMER/COUNTER) instructions cannot be used to reset multiple timers and counters within a function block at the same time. Always specify the same variable for the first operand (timer/counter number 1) and second operand (timer/counter number 2). Different variables cannot be specified for the first and second operand. Timer Instructions in Function Block Definitions An instance will not be executed while its EN input variable is OFF, so the following precautions are essential when using a Timer Instruction in a function block definition. The Timer Instruction will not be initialized even though the instances EN input variable goes OFF. Consequently, the timers Completion Flag will not be turned OFF if the EN input variable goes OFF after the timer started operating.

XFER &10 DATA_1 DATA_2
Values are passed in a batch from the input parameters to the input variables before algorithm execution (not at the same time as the instruction in the algorithm is executed). Therefore, to pass the value from a parameter to an input variable when the instruction in the function block algorithm is executed, use an internal variable or external variable instead of an input variable.
Passing Values from or Monitoring Output Variables
To paste into the program and then pass values outside (the program) from the function block for each instance, or monitor values, use output variables.
Program Instance for function block definition A. The actual value is passed.

OK_Flag W0.00 W0.01

NG_ Flag
Variable for passing a value outside or monitoring: Use an output variable.
The following restrictions apply. Values are passed from output variables to output parameters all at once after algorithm execution. Input-Output Variables to Return FB Processing Results from Values Passed from Input Parameters to Output Parameters An input-output variable can be used to implement the functionality of both input and output parameters. Internal operation involves passing the address set for the parameter to the input-output variable, but the use of the input-output variable inside the function block is the same as that of other variables.
Program Section Instance of FB definition A Specify an address for the input parameter; the address will be passed to the FB.

D100 a a D100

D100 can be used in the rest of the program after being changed in the FB. Use an input-output variable to implement Contents can be changed in the FB. both input and output variable functions while changing the value in the FB. "a" indicates D100. This address D100 a is passed. (Example: WORD data type)
Input-Output Array Variables to Pass Large Amounts of Data
Input-output variables can be set as arrays (which is not possible for input variables and output variables). If an input-output array variable is used, a range of addresses of the specified size starting from the address set for the input parameter can be used inside the FB. Input-output variables should thus be used when its necessary to pass large quantities of data to a function block.

D200 Data Data D200

Use an input-output variable to pass large quantities of data to the FB (only the first Contents can be changed in the FB. address is actually passed). This address is passed.
D200 D201 D209 Data WORD data Array setting 10 elements "Data[0]" indicates D200. "Data [1]" indicates D201 Etc.
D200 to D2009 can be used in the rest of the program after being changed in the FB.

CJ1-H CPU Units

Item Model CJ1HCPU67H/ CPU67HR 2,560 250K 32K words 32K words 13 banks E0_00000 to EC_32767 CJ1HCPU66H/ CPU66HR 120K CJ1HCPU65H/ CPU65HR 60K Specification CPU64H- CJ1GR CPU45H CJ1GCPU44H

CJ1GCPU43H

CJ1GCPU42H
I/O points Program capacity (steps) Data memory Extended Data Memory

1,280 60K

960 20K
32K words 32K words 32K words 32K words 32K words 1 bank 7 banks 3 banks 1 bank 3 banks E0_00000 to E0_32767 E0_00000 E0_00000 E0_00000 E0_00000 to to to to E6_32767 E2_32767 E2_32767 E2_32767 1,024 1,024 1,024 1,024 1,128
Function Maxi1,024 blocks mum number of definitions Maxi2,048 mum number of instances Total for 2,048 all files (Kbytes)
Comment Memory Unit (ver. 4.0 or later) Inside comment memory (ver. 3.0 or later)
Function block program memory (Kbytes) Comment files (Kbytes) Program index files (Kbytes) Variable tables (Kbytes)

CJ1M CPU Units

Item Model I/O points Program capacity (steps) Number of Expansion Racks Data memory Extended Data Memory Specification Units with internal I/O functions Units without internal I/O functions CJ1M-CPU23 CJ1M-CPU22 CJ1M-CPU21 CJ1M-CPU13 CJ1M-CPU12 CJ1M-CPU160 20K 10K 5K 20K 10K 5K 1 max. 32K words None Expansion not supported 1 max. Expansion not supported
Item Units with internal I/O functions Pulse start times 46 s (without acceleration/ deceleration) 70 s (with acceleration/deceleration)
Specification Units without internal I/O functions ---
Number of scheduled interrupts PWM outputs Maximum value of subroutine number Maximum value of jump number in JMP instruction Internal inputs

1,024 1,024

63 s (without acceleration/ deceleration) 100 s (with acceleration/ deceleration) 256 256

2 None 1,024 1,024

256 256

Internal outputs

Function Maxiblocks mum number of definitions Maxi256 mum number of instances ComTotal for ment all files Memory (Kbytes) Unit (ver. 4.0 or later) Function Inside block procomgram ment memory memory (ver. 3.0 (Kbytes) or later) Comment files (Kbytes) Program index files (Kbytes) Variable tables (Kbytes) 704
--10 points 4 interrupt inputs (pulse catch) 2 high-speed counter inputs (50-kHz phase difference or 100-kHz single-phase) 6 points 6 points -- 2 pulse outputs (100 kHz) 2 pulse outputs 2 PWM outputs (100 kHz) 1 PWM output 128

CP1H CPU Units

Item Model X models XA models CP1H-X40DR-A CP1H-XA40DR-A CP1H-X40DT-D CP1H-XA40DT-D CP1H-X40DT1-D CP1H-XA40DT1-D 320 points (40 built-in points + 40 points/Expansion Rack x 7 Racks)

Y models CP1H-Y20DT-D

Max. number of I/O points
300 points (20 built-in points + 40 points/Expansion Rack x 7 Racks)

Press F Key with cursor here. Following dialog Input the instance name. box is displayed.
Select the function block from which to create an instance.
3. As an example, set the instance name in the FB Instance Field to sample, set the function block in the FB Definition Field to FunctionBlock1, and click the OK Button. As shown below, a copy of the function block definition called FunctionBlock1 will be created with an instance name of sample.
Instance name Function block definition An instance called sample is created from the function block definition called FunctionBlock1.
The instance will be automatically registered in the global symbol table with an instance name of sample and a data type of FUNCTION BLOCK. Method 2: Registering the Instance Name in the Global Symbol Table in Advance and Then Selecting the Instance Name If the instance name is registered in the global symbol table in advance, the instance name can be selected from the global symbol table to create other instances.
1. For a ladder diagram, select a data type of Function block in the global symbol table, input the instance name, and registered the instance. For ST, select a data type of Function block, use the instance name, and use a call statement for the function block as follows to call the function block: Input the instance name (any internal variable name with a function block data type) followed by the arguments in parentheses (i.e., specify the input variable values of the calling function block to pass to the input variables of the called function block). Also include the return values (i.e., specify the output variable values of the called function block to pass back to the output variables of the calling function block). 2. Press the F Key in the Ladder Section Window. The Function Block Invocation Dialog Box will be displayed. 3. Select the instance name that was previously registered from the pulldown menu on the FB Instance Field. The instance will be created.

Restrictions

Observe the following restrictions when creating instances. Refer to 2-4 Programming Restrictions for details. No more than one function block can be created in each program circuit. The rung cannot be branched to the left of an instance. Instances cannot be connected directly to the left bus bar, i.e., an EN must always be inserted. Note If changes are made in the I/O variables in a variable table for a function block definition, the bus bar to the left of all instances that have been created from that function block definition will be displayed in red to indicate an error. When this happens, select the function block, right-click, and select Update Invocation. The instance will be updated for any changes that have been made in the function block definition and the red bus bar display indicating an error will be cleared.

#00000000 to FFFFFFFF or &0 to 4294967295
#0000000000000000 to FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF or &0 to 18446744073709551615
If a non-boolean data type is used for the input variable and only a numerical value (e.g., 20) is input, the value for the CIO Area address (e.g, CIO 0020) will be passed, and not the numerical value. To set a numerical value, always insert an &, #, + or prefix before inputting the numerical value. Example Programs:
Instance for function block definition A

( INT ) DATA_1

If the data format for DATA_1 is INT, and "10" is input, the value for CIO 0010 will be passed.

&10

If the data format for DATA_1 is INT, and the prefix & is added so that "&10" is input, the numerical value will be passed.
If the input variable data type is boolean and a numerical value only (e.g., 0 or 1) is input in the parameter, the value for CIO 000000 (0.00) or CIO 000001 (0.01) will be passed. Always input P_Off for 0 (OFF) and P_On for 1 (ON).
Setting the FB Instance Areas
The areas where addresses for variables used in function blocks are allocated can be set. These areas are called the function block instance areas. 1,2,3. 1. Select the instance in the Ladder Section Window or in the global symbol table, and then select Function Block/SFC Memory - Function Block/SFC Memory Allocation from the PLC Menu. The Function Block/SFC Memory Allocation Dialog shown below will appear. 2. Set the FB instance areas.
Non-retained area Retained area Timer area Counter area

First address

Last address
The non-retained and retained areas are set in words. The timer and counter areas are set by time and counter numbers. The default values are as follows: CJ2-series CPU Units
FB Instance Area Non Retain Retain Timers Counters Default value Start address End address H512 H1407 H1408 T3072 C3072 H1535 T4095 C4095 Size Applicable memory areas CIO, WR, HR, DM, EM (See note.) HR, DM, EM (See note.) TIM CNT
FB Instance Area Non Retain (See notes 1 and 3.) Retain (See note 1.) Timers Counters Default value Start address End address H512 (See H1407 (See note 2.) note 2.) H1408 (See note 2.) T3072 C3072 H1535 (See note 2.) T4095 C4095 Size 896 Applicable memory areas CIO, WR, HR, DM, EM

HR, DM, EM TIM CNT

(1) Bit data can be accessed even if the DM or EM Area is specified for the non-retained area or retained area.
(2) The Function Block Holding Area words are allocated in H512 to H1535. These words cannot be specified in instruction operands in the user program. These words can also not be specified in the internal variables AT settings. (3) Words H512 to H1535 are contained in the Holding Area, but the addresses set as non-retained will be cleared when the power is turned OFF and ON again or when operation is started. (4) To prevent overlapping of instance area addresses and addresses used in the program, set H512 to H1535 (Function Block Holding Area words) for the non-retained area and retained area. If there are not sufficient words, use words in areas not used by the user program. If another area is set, the addresses may overlap with addresses that are used in the user program. If the addresses in the function block instance areas overlap with any of the addresses used in the user program, an error will occur when compiling. This error will also occur when a program is downloaded, edited online, or checked by the user.

Select Register in Watch Windows. or Copy the instance and paste it in the Watch Window. or Right-click an empty row in the Watch Window and select Register in Watch Windows.
Click the OK Button to register.
Monitoring Input Variables and Output Variables in Instances
The present values of input variables and output variables (parameters) are displayed below the parameters.
PV of parameter for I/O variable.
Simulation of Ladder/ST Programs in Instances
The CX-One Ver 1.1 (CX-Programmer Ver. 6.1) and later versions have a simulation function that can simulate the operation of a ladder program or ST program within a function block instance. Both step execution and break point operation are supported. To return to the original instance, right-click in the ST program monitor window and select To Upper Layer from the pop-up menu.
Enabling the Simulation Function Use the following procedure to enable the simulation function.
1. Open the program containing the instance to be debugged. 2. Select View - Toolbars and select the Simulator Debug Option in the Toolbars Tab. 3. Select Work Online Simulator from the CX-Programmers PLC Menu and transfer the program to the CX-Simulator in the computer. Note
Steps 2 and 3 can be done in the opposite order.
Step Execution (Step Run) Executes the program in step (instruction) increments. When the instance is stopped, this function can move to the first step (instruction) of the ladder or ST program in that instance. The program in the instance can be executed with the Step Run or Continuous Step Run method (see note).
Set the duration of the step execution for Continuous Step Run operation by selecting the CX-Programmers Tools - Options command and setting the Continuous Step Interval on the PLCs Tab Page. Step In Use the following procedure to begin step execution of a ladder/ST program within an instance (called Step Run operation). 1,2,3. 1. Pause execution of the instance. (See note.) 2. Click the Step In Icon or select Tools - Simulation - Mode - Step In. Example: Step In from Instance to Internal Ladder Program

Stopped here.

Click the Step In Icon to start Step In execution.

Moves to here.

Example: Step In from ST Program to Internal Ladder Program
With an ST program, an arrow is displayed to the left Click the Step In Icon to start Step In execution. of the stopped position.
When the program is being executed at a point outside of the function block instance, the processing is the same as normal Step Run operation. Step Out Use the following procedure to pause step execution of a ladder/ST program within an instance (Step Run operation) and return to one level higher in the program (the program or instance that was the source of the call).
1. During Step Run operation, move the cursor to any stopping point in the instance. 2. Click the Step Out Icon or select Tools - Simulation - Mode - Step Out.

Related Auxiliary Area Flag File Memory Operation Flag

Address A343.13

Description ON when any of the following conditions exists: CMND instruction sending a FINS command to the local CPU Unit. File Memory Instruction being executed. Program replacement using the control bit in the Auxiliary Area. Easy backup operation. ON when a Memory Card has been detected.
Memory Card Detected Flag

A343.15

For further information and precautions on related Auxiliary Area flags, refer to the section on the FWRIT File Memory Instruction in the CS/CJ-series Instruction Reference Manual.
TXD_CPU: Send String via CPU Unit RS-232C Port Function Sends a text string from the RS-232C port on the CPU Unit. Application TXD_CPU (Send_string); Conditions The serial communications mode of the RS-232C port must be set to no-protocol communications. Arguments and Return Values
Variable name Send_string Data type STRING Description Specifies the text string to send.
CPU Unit Get Scene Number command: @READ

RS-232C port

Barcode Reader
Variables BOOL INT STRING BOOL
DoSendData iProcess Message SendEnableCPUPort
(* Variable to control send function *) (* Process number *) (* Send message *) (* Send Ready Flag *) AT A392.05
(* Send data when DoSendData is ON and iProcess is 0 *) IF (DoSendData = TRUE) AND (iProcess = 0) THEN iProcess := 1; DoSendData := FALSE; END_IF; (* Execute send processing according to process number *) CASE iProcess OF 1: (* Create send text data *) Message := '@READ'; iProcess := 2; 2: (* Execute send function if sending is enabled *) IF SendEnableCPUPort = TRUE THEN TXD_CPU(Message); iProcess := 3; END_IF; 3: (* Sending is finished if Send Ready Flag is ON *) IF SendEnableCPUPort = TRUE THEN iProcess := 0; END_IF; END_CASE;
Related Auxiliary Area Flag RS-232C Port Send Ready Flag

Address A392.05

Description ON when sending is enabled in no-protocol mode.

For further information and precautions on related Auxiliary Area flags, refer to the section on TXD Serial Communications Instruction in the CS/CJ-series Instruction Reference Manual. TXD_SCB: Send String via Serial Port on Serial Communications Board Function Sends a text string from a serial port on a Serial Communications Board (SCB). Application TXD_SCB (Send_string, Serial_port); Conditions The serial communications mode of the serial port must be set to no-protocol communications. Arguments and Return Values
Variable name Send_string Serial_port Data type STRING INT, UINT, WORD Description Specifies the text string to send. Specifies the number of the serial port. 1: Serial port 1 2: Serial port 2
Serial Communications Board CPU Unit (SCB)
Get Scene Number command: @READ

Serial port 1

P_DoSendData (* Variable to control send function *) iProcess (* Process number *) Message (* Send message *) P_SendEnableSCBPort1 (* Send Ready Flag *) AT A356.05 Serial port 1 used.
(* Use serial port number 1 *) (*Send data when P_DoSendData is ON and iProcess is 0 *) IF (P_DoSendData = TRUE) AND (iProcess = 0) THEN iProcess := 1; P_DoSendData := FALSE; END_IF; (* Execute send processing according to process number *) CASE iProcess OF 1: (* Create send text data *) Message := '@READ'; iProcess := 2; 2: (* Execute send function if sending is enabled *) IF P_SendEnableSCBPort1 = TRUE THEN TXD_SCB(Message, 1); iProcess := 3; END_IF; 3: (* Sending is finished if Send Ready Flag is ON *) IF P_SendEnableSCBPort1 = TRUE THEN iProcess := 0; END_IF; END_CASE;
Related Auxiliary Area Flag Port 1 Send Ready Flag Port 2 Send Ready Flag

Address A356.05 A356.13

Description ON when sending is enabled in no-protocol mode. ON when sending is enabled in no-protocol mode.
For further information and precautions on related Auxiliary Area flags, refer to the section on TXD Serial Communications Instruction in the CS/CJ-series Instruction Reference Manual. TXD_SCU: Send String via Serial Port on Serial Communications Unit Function Sends a text string from a serial port on a Serial Communications Unit (SCU). Application TXD_SCU (Send_string, SCU_unit_number, Serial_port, Internal_logic_port); Conditions The serial communications mode of the serial port must be set to no-protocol communications.
Variable name Send_string SCU_unit_number Serial_port Internal_logic_port Data type STRING INT, UINT, WORD INT, UINT, WORD INT, UINT, WORD Description Specifies the text string to send. Specifies the number of the Serial Communications Unit. 1: Serial port 1 2: Serial port to 7: Internal logic port number specified 16#F: Automatic internal logic port allocation
Serial Communications Unit (SCU) CPU Unit Unit No. : 0 Get Scene Number Get Scene Number Command: @READ command: @READ

Serial port 2

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Variables BOOL INT STRING BOOL BOOL P_DoSendData iProcess Message P_TXDU_Exe P_ComInstEnable (* Variable to control send function *) (* Process number *) (* Send message *) (* TXDU Execution Flag *) AT 1519.05 Unit number 0, Use serial port 2. (* Communications Port Enable Flag*) AT A202.07 Use port 7.