Newer PCD types and newer PCD7.D4xx devices have micro-SD memory card (uSD) on the PCB (printed circuit boards)

The following data’s are stored on the this uSD card on the PCD’s PCB:

• Firmware for the PCD
• Device configurator settings (PG5)
• Application program done with PG5
• Webeditor 8 project (PG5)
• DATA (e.g HDLog) created by the application program in runtime
• Setup, Calibration (PCD7.D443, PCD7.D450, PCD.D470)
• Program Backup on internal Flash

In some cases, it is necessary to replace the micro-SD memory card (uSD) of the PCD.

This FAQ describes how to replace the micro-SD memory card (uSD) which is mounted on the PCD controller's PCB (printed circuit boards)  

The attached .pdf describes how to replace the micro-SD memory card (uSD) used on the PCB of the PCD

No

Saia-Burgess Controls devices and software are not affected from Domain Name System (DNS) vulnerabilities published with the report name NAME:WRECK

-

No, Saia-Burgess Controls devices and software are not affected from AMNESIA:33 or from SUNBURST

• AMNESIA:33: Describes Security vulnerabilities in TCP/IP stacks
• SUNBURST: Is a trojan

No, SBC devices are not affected from the Ripple20 zero-day vulnerabilities since none of our products uses the TCP/IP software library developed by Treck, Inc.

The device configurator gives an error when a card with 16 digital inputs or outputs is configured on base address 240 because the address 255 is reserved for the hardware watchdog!

Can I use the I/O card on this slot?
Whether the media mapping is configured or not, it is possible to put a 16 I/O card on address 240. The only condition is that the last I/O of the card (address 255) isn't used! The message "On the defined module, the last input/output with address 255 cannot be used." can be ignored for digital I/O modules (but not for analogue I/O modules)

Remark
It is planned to change the error message of the device configurator.

Firmware versions before the version 1.10.51 were not supporting retries during the "Upload/Merge" process of the BACnet configurator. In case a telegram got lost during upload of the BACnet configuration (from the PCD to the PC) the transfer was been aborted.

Symptom
During an Upload (for the function "Upload/Merge" of the BACnet configurator) all of the sudden the transfer of the configuration stops. This phenomenon is observed when a telegram is lost. This telegram loss is random, dependent on the network load.

Reason
Firmware versions before the version 1.10.51 were expecting a communication without telegram losses. In case a telegram was lost (due to network problems) the transfer was interrupted by the PCD firmware. Because of the interruption the BACnet firmware was not notified, but it remained in a state of waiting for the completion of the upload process.

Solution
The firmware version 1.10.51 (for the PCD3 or the PCD2.M5) together with the BACnet firmware 1.10.50 are more robust and can cope with telegram losses during the upload of the BACnet configuration. Please update the firmware of your PCD and the one on your PCD7.R56x to the mentioned (or later) firmware versions.

Remark
Please note that the firmware version of both, he PCD and the BACnet module must be updated.

Some Ethernet devices do generate gratuitous ARP telegrams every time they are connected to an Ethernet network. This telegram informs the router that there is a new IP address on the network and causes it to update its internal MAC addresses table in case the according IP was already mapped to a MAC address.

Background
If a device is replaced on a network and the new device does have the same IP address, it won't be reachable until the router (or other devices that communicate with the replaced system) refreshes the MAC address table.
The gratuitous ARP telegrams are one way to inform a router about a modification of the MAC address bound to an IP address.

Does a PCD generate gratuitous ARP telegrams?
No, a PCD (e.g. a PCD3, a PCD2.M5xxx or a PCD equipped with a PCD7.F655) does not generate gratuitous ARP telegrams when being connected to an Ethernet network (when it gets a "Link"). This feature is not implemented in the stack, and there are no plans for implementing this feature into the stack of the F655 because:

• there is a relatively easy to realize workaround available
• and the gratuitous ARP telegram is only required in case PCD is being replaced (which is not very often)

How to cause the router to update its MAC address?
Instead of relying on a gratuitous ARP telegram, a simple telegram can be sent to the router device every time the link is being detected (indicated by a rising edge of the "Diagnostic Flag+6", or as in the attached code example just regularly every 60 seconds). The telegram to be sent can be done by using the Open Data mode of the PCD.
Attached you can find a small code example which could be used on a PCD3 or a PCD2.M5xx0 (given no other ODM code is implemented on the system). This code can be added to a CPU in PG5 1.4.300 project using the "Add files..." (from the context menu of the "Program Files" folder of the CPU). Additionally, plase update the symbol "RemoteIP" within this file to a fitting IP address on you network and read the header of the file for more information how to work with this code. 

Due to a problem of the firmware version 039 the serial PGU connection on the PGU port does not work.

Symptom
It is not possible connecting the PCD2.M480 (with firmware version 039 installed) with serial PGU mode using a PGU cable PCD8.K111.

Reason
A problem of the firmware version 039 causes the serial PGU connection not to work.

Solution
If possible use the (faster) USB port of the PCD for connecting the PCD. In case this is not possible for you, please contact your local sales office and request a firmware that fixes the problem (e.g. 03B). 

XOBs 20 and 25 are called when interrupt input INB1 or INB2 of the PCD1/2 has detected a rising edge.

Problem
Obviously XOB 20/25 are called and they are not programmed. The PCD has detected a rising edge on INB1/INB2.

Reason
If the interrupt inputs are used XOB20/25 has to be programmed otherwise this will generate an error. If the interrupt inputs are not used and there is a history entry anyway it can be that the PCD detects a rising edge do to disturbances.

Solution
If the interrupt inputs are used, programm the XOB 20 /25.
If the interrupt inputs are not used, connect the INB1 and INB2 to the GND to avoid disturbances

The PCD CPUs can be protected with a password. Once the CPU is password protected it is not possible reading its hardware or user program any more.

How can I protect my PCD with a password?
The protection is done by configuring a password in the hardware settins and downloading this configuration (make sure you have enabled the "Password" in the download window).

How can I remove the password?
There are two possibilities to remove the password from the PCD:

• You can re-download the hardware configuration (with the password protection in the Hardware Settings unchecked). Again, make sure you have enabled the "Password" in the download window. You will be prompted for the password when downloading the new configuration.
• You can clear the whole memory of the PCD or the PCS. Doing so will not only remove the password but will erase the whole configuration and user program of the PCD! The "Clear Memory..." function can be found in the menu "Online" of the PG5 "Online Configurator".

Restrictions

• The procedure "Clear Memory..." does not yet work for all CPU types (e.g. the PCD3 memory can not be cleared with this function). (An alternative way could be removing the battery and removing the power supply in case the user program is stored in RAM).
• The minimal PG5 version featuring the "Clear Memory..." function is PG5 1.4.120.

On the PCD1, and PCD2.M110/120/150 it is possible to put a memory chip as extension memory. The table below contains a list of the supported extension memory chips for classic PCD's.

No the XOB 5 is only supported by the PCD4 and PCD6

Reason
The reason is, that the "IO Bus Quit fail" is a hardware interrupt created by the PCD4 and PCD6 I/O modules. On the PCD3 and also PCD2 I/O modules it is not supported and therfore not available.

Yes, it is implemented in the PCD3 with FW Version $12 or later. On the PCD2.M5xx0 it is supported with every firmware

The S-Net MPI-Port has to be configured as Port 3 instead of Port 10. It can be used as free standard RS 485-Port for S-Bus, to add a Bus-Terminal etc.

The wiring is:

D-Sub S-Net MPI                           S-Bus / Terminal ...
Pin
    3 RxD/TxD-P  --------------------- /TX /RX
    5 GND           --------------------- GND         
    8 RxD/TxD-N  --------------------- TX RX

After an Ethernet module has been replaced (and the IP address remained the same), it is often not possible connecting to the according PCD. The reason is that the PC "remembers" the old MAC address (which is different on every Ethernet module) and tries to connect to the old MAC address.

Symptom
After exchanging a PCD7.F65x or a PCD with Ethernet port, the communication between PC and PCD doesn't work any more. The same phenomenon can also be observed if the PCD is connected via a router (which also has a table where all IP addresses are listed together with its MAC address).

Reason
IP stations do address each other over its MAC address and not over its IP address. The first time a telegram is sent to a IP address, an ARP (address resolution protocol) telegram is sent which queries the MAC address for the relevant IP address. The destination station will then respond with its own MAC address (which will be stored by the originator of the telegram). After the MAC address has been received once, it will be stored on the originator for future use.
If the MAC address of a device changes, but the IP address remains the same, the originator of the communication (or a router or a switch in-between) needs to refresh its MAC table!  

Solution
To make the PC aware of the new MAC address, the PC needs to delete the MAC entry of the according IP address (for that it qureies it again for the next telegram). This is done automatically by the PC but takes some time.
To force a refresh of the MAC entry of an IP addres, the MAC adress of the concerned IP address in the local PC cache has to be deleted by using the arp command in the Windows Command Prompt. This can be done with the command "arp -d Entry_To_Delete":

The command prompt (screenshot above) can be launched from the Windws Start menu; Select "Execute" and type "cmd".

Short discription of  useful  ARP commands

• arp -a   display the  contents of the local cache
• arp -d   claer all contents of the correspond  IP- Adress
• ARP /?  display all possible parameter of ARP-Command
  

Remark
In case there are routers and switches in-between the PC and the PCD, also their cache needs to be deleted. This can be done by restarting the device.

No. Changing modules under tension can result in damage to the modules and CPU.

Remark
Please note that not only the PCD Power supply but also the tension on the I/Os themself (and the power supply of the I/O modules) must be removed before the modules can be removed without risk.

Yes it’s possible to connect a PCD directly to the internet, but you have to protect your PCD against unauthorised access or cyber-attacks.

To protect the PCD against unauthorised access or cyber-attacks, it’s imperatively needed to take some protective measures.

Information about protective measures can be found on the support hp

If you need a PCD with cyber security levels SL3+ and based on ANSI ISA 62443 then checkout our PCD3.M6893 (QronoX PCD), this PCD was developed for cybersecure applications.

Information's can be found here.

In April 2011 a new firmware for the PCD2.M487 has been introduced into production. This FAQ lists the main differences of this firmware compared to the previous firmware used in production (1.315)

New features

• Support of PCD7.R400 produced after April 2010
  (with older firmware it is only possible to read but not to written the R400 produced after April 2010, see FAQ 101391)
• Support of PCD2.W525 analogue input/output module

Main corrections

• In some cases inter-character delays on port 6 have been observed
• MPI OPRead telegrams were sometimes not correctly answered during power-up of the PCD
• PCD2.W610 output was not correctly calculated in case SIMATC Format has been configured
• On a PCD2.W745 only the first channel was read correctly
• Fetch/Write over ISO on TCP closed the connection after 10s

The Error LED of the PCD2.M127 does blink in case a PCD2.F7xx module is configured but the communication (Profibus or LON) is not working (e.g. because the module itself or a configured Profibus DP slave is not present).

Remark
The user documentation states that the Error LED can be programmed in the user program; this statement is wrong as the blinking error LED can only be stopped by either avoiding the failed communication or by removing the communication configuration from the project.

In february 2010 a new firmware version for the systems PCD2.M177 and PCD.Smart.M177 has been introduced into production. The reason for this introduction is that a new type of flash is used on the PCD7.R400 memory modules. This new flash memory is only supported by the new firmware 3.123 (and later versions).

When working with PCD systems you will cross the expression "Saia PCD® COSinus" sooner or later. This FAQ explains what "Saia PCD® COSinus system" stands for.

The expression "Saia PCD® COSinus"
In general the expression "Saia PCD® COSinus" stands for PCD systems which are equipped with Freescale (previously Motorola) Coldfire CPU technology. The "non-Saia PCD® COSinus" systems from Saia-Burgess Controls AG are based on Freescale 68k CPU technology (e.g. PCS1, PCD2.M170 etc.).
The Coldfire CPU technology is a new and more performant CPU generation, new development is generally realized on Coldfire CPU (while the 68k CPUs still are available in parallel).
The first PCD system based on the Saia PCD® COSinus technology has been the PCD2.M48x. For this system the whole firmware has been re-written. The firmware of new systems is built up based on the firmware developed for the PCD2.M48x platform (having the same core modules). New firmware functionalities (e.g. Modbus which is implemented in the firmware) are basically designed for the Coldfire CPU technology and thus for Saia PCD® COSinus systems.

Saia PCD® COSinus based systems
The following list contains the main PCD systems which are based on Saia PCD® COSinus technology.

• PCD3.Mxxx
• PCD2.M48x
• PCD2.M5xxx
• PCD7.D4xx
• PCD1.M2xx (currently under development)

Does this mean that all Saia PCD® COSinus systems support the same firmware features?
No! Although the same base modules of the firmware are used, it is depending on the PCD system whether a specific feature is supported or not. For example the http protocol is supported by PCD3 and PCD2.M5xxx systems, but not on PCD2.M48x.

The PCD3 systems equipped with an Ethernet port and the PCD2.M5540 are able to send emails. But sending e-Mails is not only depending on the CPU itself.

The PCD3 systems equipped with an Ethernet port and the PCD2.M554x support SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol). Sending emails does not only depend on this feature but as well on the ISP (Internet Service Provider), the firewalls and router configurations between PCD and ISP.

The attached checklist with the criterias to verify with your provider and / or your IT support shall help to check whether sending E-Mail is possible.

In order to simplify the interpretation of firmware versions and to avoid confusion regarding implemented features and bug fixes in different firmware versions, a new firmware version format for Saia PCD® COSinus based systems will be introduced.

Arguments for the new format
The new firmware version naming allows a clear and easy comparison between the different versions and their implemented features (PCD type specific) and bug fixes.
Questions like "Why is the Alarming functionality of the PCD3 Web Server implemented in firmware version $31 but not in version 031? - They both do have the same number..." should be past (however, if you're interested in the answer, please refer to FAQ100176)

Format description
The new firmware version name does consist of a major version, a branch version and a minor version separated by a dot (.).
Note that the prefix characters “0”, “$” or “#” are no longer used in this notation.

Concerned systems
The new firmware version format is applied to the systems based on Saia PCD® COSinus firmware (Classic and xx7). These are

• PCD1.M2xxx
• PCD2.M48x
• PCD2.M5xxx
• PCD3.Mxxxx
• PCD7.D4xx (MB Panels)

While the firmware names for the MB Panels and PCD1.M2xxx do have this format from beginning, it was introduced on the PCD3 and PCD2.M480 systems with the firmware version after 03B.

Version flow example
Below an example for a version flow. If e.g. a bug is corrected in the version 1.06.01, also version 1.07.02 and all following 1.06.xx versions do/will have this correction implemented.


Version types

• Released beta- or maintenance versions (equivalent to the current “Bxx” or “#xx” versions).
• Released Production versions (equivalent to the current “0xx” versions): These versions are introduced in the production.
• New function versions (equivalent to the current “$xx” versions).

Compatibility with PG5
The new firmware names are fully supported by PG5 V 1.4.200:

Previous versions of PG5 will only show the first three digits of the firmware version (e.g. “106” instead of “1.06.08”). The full firmware version can always be read by displaying byte F0F0 in the “Online Debugger” (type DYF0F0 ):

Due to a problem of the firmware version 039 the serial PGU connection on the PGU port does not work.

Symptom
It is not possible connecting the PCD2.M480 (with firmware version 039 installed) with serial PGU mode using a PGU cable PCD8.K111.

Reason
A problem of the firmware version 039 causes the serial PGU connection not to work.

Solution
If possible use the (faster) USB port of the PCD for connecting the PCD. In case this is not possible for you, please contact your local sales office and request a firmware that fixes the problem (e.g. 03B). 

Some PCD types (Classic and xx7) have stored their firmware on 4 Mbit flash chips plugged on the main board. Further on the user memory/backup memory of many PCDs may be extended by mounting a flash chip. This FAQ contains a list of those memory chips in relation to the usage.

The possible applications for the 4 MBit flash chips

The possible applications for 1 MBit flash chips

Yes. With all xx7 series PCD2 controllers, the operating system can be updated via a serial port. PCD3 systems can be updated using the USB port.

PCD2.M1x7 require a PCD7.F120 interface module to do this. With the PCD2.M487, FW updates can take place directly across the PGU port. With the PCD1.M137, FW updates are only possible by changing the PROM. Further information about FW update procedures for whichever controller, and the cable required for connection to the PC's COM port, can be found under www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7family.htm  Just click here on the PCD required, then go to the "Firmware" heading and download instructions and the latest operating system.

Inputs / Outputs < 256 are in the process image and are read cyclic. The access can be per example: L IW 128 (Load Input Word 128)

Inputs / Outputs > 256 are not in the process image and can only be read directly, per example: L PIW 258 (Load Periphery Intput Word 258)

An EPROM was created in the same way as EPROMS for Classic PCDs are created, but it doesn't work.

Reason
The difference between classic an xx7 bin-files is, that you have to choose "Swap bytes" for the xx7 firmware. Otherwise the burned EPROM will not work.

For programming with GALEP the procedure is:
- Open the bin file
- choose the device
- choose Edit/Swap Bytes

A new firmware chip has been introduced (SST39SF040). Firmware version is 3.1

Once a firmware downgrade to a firmware version older than 3.1 is done on a flash SST 39SF040, no firmware upgrade is possible anymore.

Yes, the relevant national agents are listed on the page www.saia-pcd.com (please refer to the further down this FAQ for a direct link).

For customers from all other countries and Switzerland, our telephone hotline is +41 (0)26-672 71 11.
Available Monday to Thursday from 0800 to 1200 and 1300 to 1700 hrs and on Fridays from 0800 to 1200 and 1300 to 1600 hrs. Technical support can be provided on this line in German, English or French.

.For the xx7 series in particular, see under:

www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm .

Saia-Burgess Controls AG has implemented all the CPU functionalities in the operating system as firmware components. We do not use any "miracle chips". As a result, there is no dependence on anyone. However, it brings the customer the advantage of speedy modifications/extensions to the operating system.

System integrators without Saia PCD® experience who, for cost reasons, use the high performance/functionality of the Saia PCD® to replace a powerful Siemens controller (S7-400) in one-off projects to construct manufacturing systems. In particular, when there is an underlay of many other intelligent Siemens devices used, whose connections have not been designed exclusively on the basis of open standards. Explanation: We test and check very systematically and at great expense compatibility with such tools as Step®7 /Higraph/SCL, etc. However, we cannot and will not copy and debug the characteristics and behaviour of a powerful Siemens PLC as a system controller for Siemens "Total Integrated Automation“.

Manufacturers of standard products who see the potential of control technology for product differentiation/profiling, while simultaneously wanting to take advantage of the user acceptance and resource pool of the Step®7 environment. Explanation: These customers can make best use of the high performance/functionality of the Saia PCD® and of our high levels of flexibility and PLC competence.

Price benefits are primarily achievable when the emphasis is on communications and special solutions. Saia-Burgess Controls AG does not cover the entire spectrum of the Siemens environment, however, in many cases it has an attractive solution for OEM customers. Please also note the following 2 FAQs.

Yes, it’s possible to use the interrupt inputs of the xx7 CPU’s as normal inputs.

The address of the interrupt inputs is PEB 65534 or 65535 depending of the used xx7 CPU.

The interrupt 0 is mapped to the bit 0, the interrupt 1 to the bit 1 of the PEB 65534 or PEB 65635 and so on. 

There is no need to define any special behaviour to be able to read the interrupt inputs as normal inputs. 

Overview PCD system / number of interrupts / base input address for interrupt

Program example to read the interrupt inputs: 
L PEB65535
T MB 10

// M 10.0 is interrupt 0
// M 10.1 is interrupt 1

When going online with Step7 the LED's RUN HALT and ERROR are flashing.

Problem
The CPU is running, when connecting with the programming tool and going online it can happen that all LED's RUN HALT and ERROR are flashing.

Reason
If the CPU has an old firmware and a new version of Step 7 is used this can happen do to some new telegramms in Step7 which can not be handled by our firmware.

Solution
Update your firmware to the actual version

The actual firmware version is available on the support site. We recommend to update to the last official version.

Yes, but only on the PCD3.M5547 and on the PCD2.M487

Important note: the function "accessible nodes" will not  work, because it is not possible to scan the whole network in a few secondes.

Basically the FC's and FB's from the Siemens Library are supported. Otherwise if the FC / FB is made for a function that does not exist on our CPU, it will not work.

Problem
The function "copie RAM to ROM" doesn't work on a PCD1.M137

Reason
Probably you have choosen the wrong CPU type. When choosing a 414 CPU for a PCD1 this function won't work

Solution
Choose a 413 CPU

Yes. In addition, all PCD2.Mxx7 controllers offer the possibility of programming via a serial port (RS 232). With the PCD2.M1x7, the MPI protocol is active by default at interface A in connection with the PCD7.F120 interface module. With the PCD2.M487, the MPI protocol is active by default at interface 0 (PGU). The default transmission speed here is 19.200 Baud, but can be increased to 38.400 Baud. The MPI protocol can also be switched over to other interfaces. This requires parameters to be set for a CDB (Configuration Data Block). Detailed information about the configuration data block is provided in Manual 26/797. This documentation can be downloaded under:
www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm

Yes. When designing a project with SBC hardware, the I/O Builder software tool is required (free of charge). This tool can be downloaded from the following Internet address: www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7Configuration.htm

A complete list of instruction execution times is not available. Since there are other processors present with a different operating system from the Simatic controllers, it is not very meaningful to compare individual instructions. The best way to obtain a realistic comparison is to execute the application program directly on the corresponding xx7 series controller. For additional support, contact:
support@saia-pcd.com 

A complete list of instruction execution times is not available. Since there are other processors present with a different operating system from the Simatic controllers, it is not very meaningful to compare individual instructions. The best way to obtain a realistic comparison is to execute the application program directly on the corresponding xx7 series controller. For additional support, contact:
pcdsupport@saia-pcd.com 

Basically, yes. However, care should be taken to check whether any

Siemens system functions that may be used also exist in the operating system of

the xx7 series. Further information will be found in Technical Information TI

26/353 (operating system xx7) Detailed information about programming these

functions can be obtained from Manual 26/797. This documentation can be

downloaded under:
www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm

Full compatibility is not available. Xx7 series controllers are Step®7 programmable. Restrictions mainly occur when special, local modules from the Simatic communications processor and function module environments are mandatory. Due to the difference in hardware construction, they cannot be integrated into an xx7 system. In this area, SBC offers economical alternative solutions that entail little engineering expenditure. In addition, the instruction sets and module addressing of xx7 controllers corresponds approximately to those of the CPU412/414 from Siemens.

Basically, yes. The operating system of the Saia PCD® xx7 series interprets Step®7 STL code. This means that a Step®7 program is executable in all STL based languages, such as LAD, FDB, Higraph, SCL and S7-Graph, and therefore also on a Simatic controller. Program modifications will be necessary when calling system functions specific to Saia (e.g. special modules, such as for communications or to access peripherals that are not present). For more details on system functions, see Technical Information TI 26/353 (xx7 operating system) under www.sbc-support.com

Basically, yes. The operating system of the Saia PCD® xx7 series interprets Step®7 STL code. This means that a Step®7 program is executable in all STL based languages, such as LAD, FDB, Higraph, SCL and S7-Graph. Program modifications may be necessary when calling system functions specific to Siemens (e.g. special modules, such as communications processors) or accessing peripherals that are not present. For more details on system functions, see Technical Information TI 26/353 (xx7 operating system) under www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm .

Yes, it’s possible to use the interrupt inputs of the xx7 CPU’s as normal inputs.

The address of the interrupt inputs is PEB 65534 or 65535 depending of the used xx7 CPU.

The interrupt 0 is mapped to the bit 0, the interrupt 1 to the bit 1 of the PEB 65534 or PEB 65635 and so on. 

There is no need to define any special behaviour to be able to read the interrupt inputs as normal inputs. 

Overview PCD system / number of interrupts / base input address for interrupt

Program example to read the interrupt inputs: 
L PEB65535
T MB 10

// M 10.0 is interrupt 0
// M 10.1 is interrupt 1

The modul PCD3.W745 is missing in the IO Builder version 2.003.000

Problem
The analog module PCD3.W745 is not available in the current version of the IO Builder 2.003.000 (Language English)

Solution
As workaround select under Extras/Options in the IO-Builder German or French as Language. The PCD3.W745 is only missing in the Englisch version.

There are a couple of common causes for this case. Please take care of the points mentioned below.

Up to 13 free configurable rows for configuration of the I/O data exchange area can be inserted in "HW Config".

The PCD2.F770 has a limited memory area for configuration of the I/O data exchange area of 80 Bytes. Each Row in "Configuration"-tab of "DP slave properties" Window needs 5 bytes of the configuration area and 3 Empty Slots (= 15 Byte) are generated unvisible for the user. Therefore 65 Byte are left for up to 13 free configurable rows. The "DP slave properties" Window apears after a double-click on the slave-station in "HW Config" of "SIMATIC® Manager".

§ix100105§

Local SBC hardware (I/O modules) is configured with the I/O Builder. Then the I/O Builder is used to generate an STL source, which is imported into the S7 project and compiled. The hardware configuration is therefore defined in a data block (DB1, DB 511 or DB 1023). When reconstructing or modifying the HW configuration, a PCD restart (Stop/Start) is always required. The I/O Builder can be downloaded free-of-charge from Internet address: www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7Configuration.htm

Yes. When designing a project with SBC hardware, the I/O Builder software tool is required (free of charge). This tool can be downloaded from the following Internet address:
www.sbc-support.com

Full compatibility is not available. xx7 series controllers are Step®7 programmable. Restrictions mainly occur when special, local modules from the Simatic communications processor and function module environments are mandatory. Due to the difference in hardware construction, they cannot be integrated into an xx7 system. In this area, SBC offers economical alternative solutions that entail little engineering expenditure. In addition, the instruction sets and module addressing of xx7 controllers corresponds approximately to those of the CPU412/414 from Siemens. For applications that go beyond this, please contact us.
support@saia-pcd.com

CPU configuration (MPI address, clock memory byte, interrupt OBs, etc.) and network configuration (Profibus, Ethernet) takes place with Simatic Manager. Transferred CPU settings become effective with the transition from STOP->RUN. Addressing and configuration of I/O modules and SBC-specific CPU or interface settings take place with data blocks created using the I/O Builder software tool (available free-of-charge). This tool can be downloaded from Internet address: www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7Configuration.htm  Network configuration (Profibus, Ethernet) also takes place with Simatic Manager.

On older PCD’s it was possible to set the PCD3.Mxx6x in to the firmware download mode by switching the run/stop switch (below the M1 memory slot) quickly several times during the start-up of the PCD.
On newer PCD’s it’s no more possible to set the PCD in the firmware download mode with this procedure.                 

Reason:

New PCD3 power CPU’s (PCD3.Mxx6x) are delivered from factory with a new booter version.
This new booter version does change the behaviour of the Run/Stop switch on the PCD3 power CPU’s in that way, that it’s no more possible to put the CPU in the “boot” state mode by switching the Run/Stop switch (below the M1 memory slot) quickly several times during the start-up of the PCD.

The “boot” state mode is used to download the FW in to the PCD.

The following systems are concerned:
• PCD3.Mxx60
• PCD3.Mxx67
• PCD3.Mxx80
• PCD3.M96xx

Version number of the booter:
• 1.24.11 or newer

How to detect the booter version of a PCD?
Either with the information on white sticker on the back of the PCD

or from the hardware information of PG5 online configurator.

How to set the PCD in the “boot” state mode?
It’s possible to put the PCD in the “boot” state mode with the help of the Run/Halt
push button (near of the USB connector) as described in the PCD3 manual.

Extract from PCD3 manual:

Remark:

Use the Run/Halt push button to put the PCD in the “boot” state mode.
This works on all PCD’s independent of the booter version.

An update of the booter is not required on old PCD’s

The external MPI adapter which can be connected to the MPI Port of the PCD does need to be supplied with 24VDC.

Depending of the hardware version of the PCD, on some FW this 24VDC supply on the MPI doesn’t work.

The table below does show the dependency between the hardware and the firmware in relation with the 24VDC supply on the MPI port.
Classic PCD

xx7 PCD

The port numbers which have to be used on Step7 depends on the used communication module and on the place where the module is plugged in to the PCD.

General rule for the port number:

What does the error -104 of the modem library mean?

Problem
The xx7 modem library indicates an error -104.

Reason
This error indicates that an error occured during the initialisation of the port. Usually because the selected mode is not valid / supported.
Per example on the PCD3.Mxx7 the port 0 is per default configured as MPI port, see the related FAQ for more details. In case the modem library is using port 0 as well, this leads to error -104.

Solution
The default MPI configuration can be transfered to an other port (see related FAQ). In case the modem should be used with MPI protocol this has to be handled with the modem libary.

Yes, it’s possible to use the interrupt inputs of the xx7 CPU’s as normal inputs.

The address of the interrupt inputs is PEB 65534 or 65535 depending of the used xx7 CPU.

The interrupt 0 is mapped to the bit 0, the interrupt 1 to the bit 1 of the PEB 65534 or PEB 65635 and so on. 

There is no need to define any special behaviour to be able to read the interrupt inputs as normal inputs. 

Overview PCD system / number of interrupts / base input address for interrupt

Program example to read the interrupt inputs: 
L PEB65535
T MB 10

// M 10.0 is interrupt 0
// M 10.1 is interrupt 1

There is a difference in the "SBC Format" between "old" xx7 CPU's (PCD2.M127, 157, 177) and Saia PCD® COSinus based CPUs (PCD3, PCD2.M5xxx7 and PCD2.M487). The way to read analogue values from PCD2/3.W2xx and PCD2/3.W100, W3x0, W500 in the "SBC-Format" is not the same.

Due to technical reasons the "SBC format" changed for the new NT CPU's (PCD3, PCD2.M487 and PCD2.M5xx7).

For the 10 Bit analogue modules like the W200 series the format changes as shown in the table below:

* = Value

If the values should be converted from new Saia PCD® COSinus format to the old format, the following instructions can be used:

L       PEW  10     //10-Bit Saia PCD® COSinus SBC-Format
SLW  6
T      MW    10    //old 10-Bit SBC-Format

For the 12 Bit analogue modules likeW100, W3x0, W500 series the format changes as shown in the table below:

*= Value

If the values should be converted from new Saia PCD® COSinus format to the old format, the following instructions can be used:

L       PEW   70    //12-Bit SBC-NT SBC-Format
SLW  4
T      MW     70    //old 12-Bit SBC-Format

Since the default MPI port is used for CAN or Profibus protocol on the PCD3.M6xx7 port 2 can be configured as MPI port

General
Since there is no MPI port available on the PCD3.M6xx7 the CPU has to be programmed over USB or the PCD3.M6547 can as well be programmed over the profibus port. If an MPI terminal should be connected, port 2 can be activated as MPI port. It is also possible to perform programming in this case, however it is not recommended since the activation is not remanent after power-off.
Configuration
The following CDB entry is necessary to activate MPI on port 2:
§ix100687§

Note that the CDB is only parsed and applied in a STOP-RUN transition. FDL is deactivated as soon as no CDB entry is present to turn it on.

No, it's not allowed to load a PCD3 xx7 with a firmware SBC standard operation system.

a xx7 CPU with SBC standard operation system does not work with all funktionallities.

If a xx7 was nevertheless loaded with the SBC standard operation system, the original operating system can be loaded back without problems.

On PCD2.Mx57 and PCD2.M177 the request can cause a crash when requesting more than 20 entrys. The problem is corrected in firmware version 3.118

Problem
After a Diagnostic Buffer request the CPU is crashing, all LED's are blinking.

Reason
Do to a firmware problem the CPU doesn't handle the request correctly if more than 20 entrys are asked

Solution
Update to version 3.118.  

With Firmware Version 1.201 the program who was stored in PCD7.R400 was not automatically copied into the PCD’s memory when the PCD2.M487 was powered off/on without battery.

The probelm is solved in the actual firmware 1.300.

A new firmware chip has been introduced (SST39SF040). Firmware version is 3.1

Once a firmware downgrade to a firmware version older than 3.1 is done on a flash SST 39SF040, no firmware upgrade is possible anymore.

When mounted vertically, operation is possible in the range 0 ...

+ 55 °C. A document on the extended temperature range

can be downloaded under www.sbc-support.ch/certificates/certificates.htm

EN/IEC 61131-2, VDE 0160, Germanischer Lloyd, Lloyd's Register of Shipping, Det Norske Veritas, Polski Rejestr Statkow,UL-USA, American Bureau of Shipping, UL-CDN. Further information and certificates will be found under www.sbc-support.ch/certificates/certificates.htm 

No. This function is not supported. Our OEM versions of the PCD2 xx7 series offer effective protection by executing parts of the Step®7 application as an operating system extension. Further information is given in Technical Information TI 26/353 (Operating system xx7). This documentation can be downloaded under: www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm

Yes. It is activated by calling system function SFC 239 approx.

every 350 ms (320…380ms). Further information is provided in Technical

Information TI 26/353 (Operating system xx7). For detailed information on

programming these functions, consult Manual 26/797. This documentation can be

downloaded under: www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm

Yes. The PCD1.M137 has 1 interrupt input, the PCD2.M1x7 has 2 interrupt inputs (or 1 fast counter) and the PCD2.M487 has 4 interrupt inputs (or 2 fast counters) already built into the base unit. When a signal changes at the inputs (or when a count value is reached) an interrupt OB will be called in the application program. Further information may be obtained from Technical Information TI 26/353 (Operating system xx7) Detailed information on the programming of these functions may be consulted in Manual 26/797. This documentation can be downloaded under: www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm

No. System resources for any PCD concerned may be consulted in Technical Information TI 26/353 (Operating system xx7) under www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm .

Yes. With all xx7 series PCD2 controllers, the operating system can be updated via a serial port. PCD3 systems can be updated using the USB port.

PCD2.M1x7 require a PCD7.F120 interface module to do this. With the PCD2.M487, FW updates can take place directly across the PGU port. With the PCD1.M137, FW updates are only possible by changing the PROM. Further information about FW update procedures for whichever controller, and the cable required for connection to the PC's COM port, can be found under www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7family.htm  Just click here on the PCD required, then go to the "Firmware" heading and download instructions and the latest operating system.

Siemens system functions and SBC system functions are available. An overview of system functions is provided in Technical Information TI 26/353. Detailed information is provided in Manual 26/797. This documentation can be downloaded under: www.sbc-support.com/en/product-category/archive/oem-products/pcds-for-step7higraphscl/pcd2m177/

A complete list of instruction execution times is not available. Since there are other processors present with a different operating system from the Simatic controllers, it is not very meaningful to compare individual instructions. The best way to obtain a realistic comparison is to execute the application program directly on the corresponding xx7 series controller. For additional support, contact:
support@saia-pcd.com 

Full compatibility is not available. xx7 series controllers are Step®7 programmable. Restrictions mainly occur when special, local modules from the Simatic communications processor and function module environments are mandatory. Due to the difference in hardware construction, they cannot be integrated into an xx7 system. In this area, SBC offers economical alternative solutions that entail little engineering expenditure. In addition, the instruction sets and module addressing of xx7 controllers corresponds approximately to those of the CPU412/414 from Siemens. For applications that go beyond this, please contact us.
support@saia-pcd.com

The port numbers which have to be used on Step7 depends on the used communication module and on the place where the module is plugged in to the PCD.

General rule for the port number:

What does the error -104 of the modem library mean?

Problem
The xx7 modem library indicates an error -104.

Reason
This error indicates that an error occured during the initialisation of the port. Usually because the selected mode is not valid / supported.
Per example on the PCD3.Mxx7 the port 0 is per default configured as MPI port, see the related FAQ for more details. In case the modem library is using port 0 as well, this leads to error -104.

Solution
The default MPI configuration can be transfered to an other port (see related FAQ). In case the modem should be used with MPI protocol this has to be handled with the modem libary.

In this case the Profibus DP address has to be the same address as the MPI address. Other Profibus addresses will not be accepted or can lead to problems.

PCD3.M5547
If the PCD3.M5547 is used as S-IO Master the Profi S-IO address has to be the same as the MPI address.

PCD3.M6547
If the PCD3.M6547 is used as Profibus DP Slave on the second port (orange terminal port 2), this Profibus Slave address has to be the same address as the MPI address.

In this case the DP profile: "Universell DP / FMS" has to be chosen. Other protocols won't work due to timing problems.

The OB 86 has to be programmed

Problem
If there is a Profibus configuration on the PCD3.Mxxx or on the PCD2.M5547 the CPU goes often in STOP after startup. On a older CPU the same project worked without problems.

Reason
The new systems are faster than the old ones. Therefore it happens quite often that the CPU is already in RUN and the Profibus is not yet ready. Therefore the CPU goes in STOP.

Solution
To avoid this problem we recommend programming the OB86. In case of a Profibus error this OB is called and the CPU does not go into STOP.

No, the PCD2.M5 CPU supports only one TCP/IP address. The two Ethernet connectors ETH1 and ETH2 do act as a switch.

If you need to have two different TCP/IP addresses then you have to use a PCD2.M480 with two PCD7.F655 modules.

For more information please refer to the FAQ 100785

The PCD3.Mxxx7 do use the TCP/IP port 102 in relation with the TCP/IP communication from/to Step7

If you want to access from Step7 to a PCD3.Mxxx7 over an ADSL router then you have to configure the ADSL router in that way, that he do reroute the port 102 to the TCP/IP address of the PCD3. 

It is only possible to read out a maximum of four continuous bytes using load instructions that access the I/O's or the process image input table.

Problem
If you are transmitting per example from a SBC Slave a 16 word  output or input. It is not possible to handle this with the process image input table or with the I/O access.

Solution
To read or write more than four continuous bytes the system functions SFC14 and SFC15 are available.

When using a PCD7.F772 or PCD7.F802 on a PCD2.M1x7 with FW Version 3.110 only the RS 485 communication works. Otherwise the Profibus / LON communication did not work.

Problem
A module PCD7.F772 (Profibus with additional RS 485 port) or PCD7.F802 (LON with additional RS 485 port) is in use. The RS 485 port is working but the Profibus / LON communication does not work.

Reason
Do to a firmware problem these modules are not correctly supported by the firmware. PCD7.F770 or PCD7.F800 will work correctly.

Solution
Update to firmware versio 3.114 or higher

The serial communication on Port 0 works only when the PCD3 (or PCD2.M5547) is switched off, Run/Stop switch is set to Stop.

Problem
The serial communication on Port 0 works not properly.

Reason
Per default the Port 0 is assigned as MPI-Port. This configuration has to be switched to another port, otherwise the Port 0 can not be used for serial communication

Solution
Add the following CDB 1023:

Note that the O in the part 8,O,1 is a letter O for Odd and not a zero. It only works when the implemented CDB has exactely the entrys shown in the picture above (case sensitive).

The CP 342-5 can be slave in a network where a Saia PCD® is Master. The network configuration has to be the same in the Siemens Project as in the SBC Project. You have to import the GSD-File of the CP to the SBC DP-Configurator.

The CP 342-5 is connected to a Siemens CPU (p.e Simatic S7-300). This CPU can be a part of an other DP Network.

Important
The CP 342-5 will only communicate it you call FC1(DP_send), FC2(DP_recv), and FC4(DP_CTRL) in the CPU where the CP is connected to.

Due to performance reasons we decided to renounce the implementation of checks in SFC14/15. Since already with OB86 a loss of a DP slave can be detected a valuable workaround exists for this restriction.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

A MPI-communication can be done over a serial RS 232 port of each PCD2.Mxx7

Per default the MPI serial Port is on Port 1 (PCD2.M127/M157/M177) or on Port 0 (PGU M487). The only equipment you will need to realise a MPI connection is a serial interface PCD7.F120 and a cable:

D-Sub 9-pol                screw terminal port 1
        2  ------------------------------- 11
        3  ------------------------------- 12
        5  ------------------------------- 10
        7  ------------------------------- 14
        8  ------------------------------- 13

(for M487 on port 0 you will need a PGU cable PCD8.K111)

With the I/O-Builder you can configure each other RS 232-port as MPI-serial port.

SIMATIC® CPUs with integrated CPU (e.g. 414-2DP) do not support FDL-Connections. Therefore a 400 CPU has to be extended with a CP443-5Ext. to use this service:

§ix100124§

For the Operating mode the selection DP Master must be activated:

§ix100125§

Finally choose the profil "Universal (DP/FMS):

 §ix100126§

For the specific FDL connections the SAPs 1-39 are reserved. Broadcast is not supported. Instead broadcasts can be projected. Also for broadcasts the SAP number must be smaller as 40.

No, "DPV1" is not supported! It is absolutely necessary to chose the "S7-compatible" mode.

There are a couple of points to take care. Please read the explanations mentioned below.

1. The "Save configuration data on the CPU" option of the "CP 443-5Basic" must be checked. Unfortunately not every selectable CP supports this option. Therefore a CP must be chosen (e.g. 6GK7 443-5FX01-0XE0 V3.1) that supports this option.

§ix100118§  

2. It is strongly recommend to use "Universal (DP/FMS)" Profile, which will adapt and set up all the bus parameter to work correctly with the selected speed. If this option is selected it will not be possible for the user to change any bus parameter.

§ix100115§

3. You must not use CREF number = 1 which is not available on FMS module PCD7.F700.

§ix100116§

4. Do not use the LSAP = 58 for "Master to Master" connections since this LSAP is normally reserved for "Master to Slave" connection.

§ix100117§

No! The hardware flow control is allways on so it is necessary to wire the signals RTS-CTS correctly! If the XX7 communicates with a device that does not support this kind of flow control, RTS-CTS can be bridged on the PLC.

Modem drivers sends/receives during initialisation and call process telegrams to/from modem. Be sure that your application wan't send/receive also telegrams during this phase.

Never send/receive telegrams until the "CONNECT"-flag of the Modem driver is not high!

Up to 13 free configurable rows for configuration of the I/O data exchange area can be inserted in "HW Config".

The PCD2.F770 has a limited memory area for configuration of the I/O data exchange area of 80 Bytes. Each Row in "Configuration"-tab of "DP slave properties" Window needs 5 bytes of the configuration area and 3 Empty Slots (= 15 Byte) are generated unvisible for the user. Therefore 65 Byte are left for up to 13 free configurable rows. The "DP slave properties" Window apears after a double-click on the slave-station in "HW Config" of "SIMATIC® Manager".

§ix100105§

. A description of

the library is also available at that address.

The PCD7.F80x LON interface module, the Snet 32 design tool for xx7 (which you can download free-of-charge under www.sbc-support.ch/pcd7/fxxx/f8xx/pcd7f8xx.htm ) and a binding tool (which is not available from Saia-Burgess Controls AG).

it.

Yes, this is possible with the PCD2.M177 and PCD2.M487. Please read the rules that must be respected in "Details".

Depending on PCD type, up to 8 interfaces are available. Which PCD supports how many interfaces and with which topology can be found on the support page.

Link to the communication overview page on the suppor site: 
www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7family.htm

Protocols supported free-of-charge by the operating system:

• DK 3964 (R) / RK512
  can be found in Manual 26/794 (Serial communication) under:
  www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7Communication.htm   

• Modbus ASCII or RTU (as well as Modbus TCP or UDP) 
  supported by the PCD3 and the PCD2.M5547 starting with firmware 1.10.17 (support of Modbus on PCD2.F2xx0 or PCD3.F2xx starting with 1.14.25).
  For more information please refer to the product page of the according system.

Remark
Additionally to the features directly implemented in the firmware, the following protocol implementation developped by our system partners are/were present (the following information could be outdated):

• holgerbischoff.onlinehome.de/html/modbus.html (Modbus)
• www.ludwig-systemelektronik.de (Modbus, Genibus, M-Bus, S-Bus) Module: LS2-F660

Connection of OPs from Saia-Burgess Controls AG or from external manufacturers, global data communications, data exchange via system functions SFC 65-69 (X-Put, X-Get, etc.) The maximum number of stations in an MPI network is 126. The maximum number of CPUs in a global data table in the Simatic-Manager is 15.

Yes. One of our system partners sells a solution in the form of a Step®7 program library. Further information will be found under:  holgerbischoff.onlinehome.de/html/modbus.html Alternatively, you can use a communications module (which plugs in as an I/O module) from another system partner to implement the Modbus protocol. Further information will be found under: www.ludwig-systemelektronik.de Module: LS2-F660
This solution can be used for old systems PCD2.M1x7 and PCD2.M487.
On the PCD3.M5547 and PCD2.M5547 Modbus is implemented in the firmware. Further information is available on the support site.

Yes it's possible that the xx7 PCD does communicate with S-Bus.

For serial communiction:
S-Bus can be implemented using a communications module (which plugs in as an I/O module) from one of our system partners. Further information will be found under: www.ludwig-systemelektronik.de Module: LS2-F660

For Ethernet communication:
If the xx7 PCD is equipped with a TCP/IP card then this PCD is able to act as Ether-S-Bus slave.
More information's could be found on the TCP/IP manual for xx7.

Yes. At present, the following connections can be planned with the PCD2.M157/177 and M487:
- UDP connection
- TCP connection (active/passive)
- ISO on TCP connections (active/passive).
The PCD2.M487 can continue to be programmed via Ethernet. The maximum number of simultaneous connections on Ethernet TCP/IP from/to a PCD (per PCD) is 9 for the PCD2.M157 and 64 for the PCD2.M177/M487. The following OPC servers have been tested:
Company: Ipas: www.ipas-systeme.de/index2.htm  
Company: Inat: www.inat.de 
Company: Langner : www.langner.com
download: www.langner.com/php/nav_4/nav_4_4/nav_4_poweropc.htm 
with Siemens protocol “ISO on TCP”

MPI communication, Profibus-DP, Profibus-FDL, Profibus-FMS, LON,

TCP/IP, serial communications (8 protocols integrated

in the operating system). Further information can be found under: www.sbc-support.ch/overview/xx7Communication.htm 

Saia PCD® are designed to have many communications interfaces directly integrated in the CPU (with plug-in modules up to 8 pcs) and to allow implementation of bus/network gateway functionality (e.g. LON-Ethernet).

With the PCD2.M487, Profibus layers 1 + 2 are implemented as part of CPU FW. This allows an open, multi-protocol operation (e.g. HTTP; MPI and DP in parallel). Saia PCD® users therefore have seamless functional consistency and continuity between Profibus and Ethernet.

No. Changing modules under tension can result in damage to the modules and CPU.

Remark
Please note that not only the PCD Power supply but also the tension on the I/Os themself (and the power supply of the I/O modules) must be removed before the modules can be removed without risk.

Various modules are available: fast counter cards (PCD2.H11x), modules for controlling stepper motor drives (PCD2.H210), modules for controling servo-drives in both single and dual axis versions (PCD2.H31X/H32x). Further information about this is available in Manual 26/757under: www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm . Motion modules are supported by a Step®7 library. These can be requested by e-mail addressed to support@saia-pcd.com.

Not all modules are electrically isolated. For detailed information, please see Technical Information TI 26/359 (digital I/O modules) and TI 26/358 (analogue I/O modules). These can be downloaded under www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm.

A large number of digital/analogue input/output modules, counting and measuring modules and motion modules are available. For detailed information, please see Technical Information TI 26/349 (PCD2: The PLC with integral added benefit). This can be downloaded under www.sbc-support.ch/xx7/xx7doc.htm.