Get more from programmable safety and automation controllers

The two latest video tutorials explain, for instance, how to set the default programming language and change where backup copies are saved. In addition, the videos show how to move windows to suit the user's working pattern, and handy shortcuts for saving time. Other tips and tricks demonstrate how to make more of the online help and libraries.

Safety and automation on one platform

With the PSS 4000 automation system various projects can be implemented, covering both safety and automation functions. The PAS4000 software comprises several editors for PLC programming and configuration, as well as software blocks. PAS4000 tools for configuration, programming, commissioning and operation are closely matched, with the data interfaces standardised to make information easier to exchange.

A key feature of the PSS 4000 automation system is the integration of safety, standard and motion control, as well as visualisation and diagnostics, with all data conveyed via a SafetyNET p Ethernet-based industrial fieldbus. PSS 4000 automation projects can either utilise a centralised controller or, alternatively, decentralised control if the machine is modular or complex.

Software suite

The PAS4000 software suite enables all aspects of an automation project to be accessed via a single interface. The PASmulti graphical program editor includes a comprehensive library of pre-certified software blocks for both safety and automation functions, so programs are simple and quick to create and edit. For PLC programming, the PAS 4000 suite includes three editors: PAS STL (Structured Text), PAS LD (Ladder Diagram) and PAS IL (Instruction List) in accordance with EN/IEC 61131-3. These editors have been classified by TUV SUD as LVL (Limited Variability Languages) meaning that the PLC editors meet the requirements for creating safety-related user software.

The identical programming environment of PASmulti and PAS IL/PAS STL/PAS LD makes handling simple; software blocks written in PAS STL, for example, can be readily transferred to PASmulti. As a result, complex projects containing software components from various editors can be structured clearly and simply. And a centralised view provides access to the program for the complete application.

Web-based visualisation

PASvisu software has been designed to make it very easy to add web-based visualisation to an automation system built on the PSS 4000 platform. PASvisu therefore provides a complete overview of the system, with access available locally or remotely. Thanks to the common database shared by the PSS 4000 system and PASvisu, engineering time is greatly reduced during the development phase and the risk of errors is considerably lower. Furthermore, not only does PASvisu enable processes to be monitored, but it can also reduce substantially the time required for troubleshooting and, therefore, downtime.

Using the web-based PASvisu also offers the additional benefit that customers can use their own choice of hardware, which provides both flexibility and future-proofing.

PSS 4000 hardware and PAS4000 software has been developed by Pilz to be user-friendly. To support customers developing applications, Pilz has provided the tips and tricks mentioned above, and the company also offers training courses to help new users become productive as quickly as possible.