Practical software guides for PLC & HMI work

1. Open the project and expand the I/O configuration under the controller.
2. Right-click the Ethernet module / port → New Module; select the device profile (VFD, I/O adapter, etc.).
3. Set the IP address to match the device; verify subnet and gateway with your OT network plan.
4. Create or map tags; download only when the process is in a safe state and change control allows it.

Forces can override field devices — treat them as a commissioning tool, not a production habit.

1. Confirm LOTO / safe state for the equipment the tag controls.
2. Use the Force dialog; document who forced what and why.
3. Remove forces before returning to production; verify with a watch or HMI.

Never force safety-related signals as a substitute for proper safety design.

• Download: sends the offline project to the controller (overwrites controller logic/data as configured).
• Upload: brings the controller’s project into your workstation (captures what is running).

Before download to a controller running live equipment, confirm revision control, backups, and a recovery plan.

Add-On Instructions (AOIs) package reusable logic (e.g. a pump, valve, or divert). Create the AOI definition, expose InOut/Input/Output parameters, then instantiate once per device.

// Educational — valve instance
XV201_Inlet(
    EnableIn := TRUE,
    OpenReq := HMI_XV201_Open,
    Permissive := LT201_NotHigh,
    Solenoid => DO_XV201_Open
);

1. Create or open the HMI project; open device / PLC communication settings.
2. Select the driver matching your PLC (e.g. EtherNet/IP for Logix).
3. Enter IP / path; test communications before building many screens.

Define tags (or import) with data types matching the PLC. Bind buttons and indicators to those tags. Use clear names like Pump1_RunCmd so operators and techs speak the same language as the PLC map.

1. Ensure a device connection (OPC-UA or native driver) browses your PLC tags.
2. In Perspective, bind the property (e.g. text, meter value) to the tag path.
3. Use UDTs/folders that mirror your machines, stations, or zones for scalable screens.

Point Ignition’s OPC-UA connection at the PLC or gateway endpoint, authenticate per OT policy, then create tags from the browser. Prefer read/write privileges only as needed.

On the fault BOOL tag (a jam, a high level, a drive trip), configure an alarm (e.g. active when true), set a display path like “Line 2 / Filler / Drive Fault”, and pipeline it to the notification method your site uses for that area.