using Labview to interface with (automation direct) H2-ECOM 100 using MODBUS

[APHY]

Hi,

I have a DL 205 base on which I have a DL 260 CPU an H2 ECOM 100 module and an H2-CTRIO module. I have correctly connected a Stp-Drv 4035 stepper drive to the CTRIO module. I also have a stepper motor hooked up to the drive. I have verified that the whole setup works by using Automation Direct's prescribed tools (CTRIO workbench and DirectSoft5 -DS5). DS5 is currently using IPX protocol to communicate with the ECOM module. I am running the Dynamic Velocity profile ladder program shown here (http://www.automationdirect.com/static/manuals/hxctriom/ch8.pdf).  However I would like to use labview to talk to the H2 Ecom module so that I can control the stepper motor (ie run the velocity profile) using Labview 8.6 which is what I have. I read more on the Ecom 100 and it can use MODBUS TCP/IP (http://web4.automationdirect.com/static/manuals/hxecomm/ch5.pdf) which is what I intend to use for this purpose. I just have no idea how to do this from within Labview. I am also new to new to Labview programming. Kindly assist?

[Andrew_E]

Hello,

You can setup a Modbus IO Server to communicate directly to the coils and registers on your plc. You have access to the Modbus IO Server if you have the DSC module installed. Then you can right click on your library and create a new Modbus IO Server. Then configure that to access your coils and registers like a variable.

You could also use the modbus library to write directly to your plc, but you will have to have a more extensive knowledge of the Modbus protocol. Here is a kb on the modbus library and how to use it.

Finally your device is supported by NI OPC Servers, so you could setup an OPC IO Server if you had dsc as well.

Regards,

Andrew