Using NI-FBUS Configurator with a Rockwell 1757-FFLDC (ControlNet version)

[bbrown2]

I'm maintaining a FF system based on the Rockwell  1757-FFLDC. I've encountered a couple different problems lately where the feedback from various vendors has been to use NI-FBUS Configurator. Unfortunately they couldn't tell me if it would work with my FFLDC. Will it work over my Rockwell network? What will I if anything in addition to NI-FBUS Configurator?

[Vince Shen]

Hi,

Only NI-FBUS Configurator 3.2 or earlier versions support 1757-FFLD ControlNet linking device. Please check which version you are using.

You will find an ControlNet device icon listed in NI-FBUS Interface Configuration Utility. After adding it, you can use Configurator access 1757-FFLD and its downstream field devices.

[bbrown2]

I'm not currently using NI Configurator at all. I was considering a purchase based on vendor recommendations. They are claiming that their products have parameters that are only accessible by NI Configurator.

[Vince Shen]

Could you provide more information? Which parameters are only accessible by NI-FBUS Configurator? Which devices are you using?

NI-FBUS Configurator has stopped the support for 1757-FFLD since version 4.0. Using NI-FBUS interface devices (USB, PCI or PCMCIA) instead of ControlNet linking device to access the FF network may be an option for you.

[bbrown2]

The original information I had was secondhand and not completely correct. After some clarification one of the problems appears to be with a parameter "Maximum_Inactivity_To_Claim_LAS". The original source could see the parameter but he could not it change it. The parameter was set to "1" for our AUMA valve actuators and for example was set to "320" for a E+H PIT. Despite repeatedly being set as basic devices, these actuators have ended up back as Link Master devices. In theory this isn't a problem but it has been a problem for us.

The other issue was with a Rosemount 3095 Multivariable Transmitter (Mass Flow). According to Rosemount, the only way to access the parameters in the Mass Flow calcuation block is with NIFBUS Configurator. This could be based on the fact that the 475 Communicator can't access this information and NIFBUS Configurator is the only other thing he knows.

Honestly I've yet to confirm any of this but this guidance is coming from the respective vendors.

[Vince Shen]

To switch between Link Master and Basic device, you can also try setting the parameter BOOT_OPERAT_FUNCTIONAL_CLASS in MIB block of the device. 

BOOT_OPERAT_FUNCTIONAL_CLASS

1: Basic

2: Link Master

Set this parameter to 1 and restart, the device will boot to basic mode.

[bbrown2]

Thanks, I'll look into it.