Benefits of Upgrading Your HMI to LCD Technology

Human Machine Interfaces, or HMI’s, are used extensively throughout the world to control and monitor automated machinery.  These devices provide touchpad and visual interaction to control manufacturing processes and perform daily tasks.  One of the most recognized HMI devices is the Automated Teller Machine (ATM).  These ATM devices intuitively interface with users through a keypad and monitor to readily transact bank deposits and dispense cash withdrawals.  They provide reliable 24-hour access to our daily banking needs.

siemens

Various HMI devices are common throughout industry.  Many older HMI devices contain the original Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) monitor technology.  This older technology burdens the users and owner with several disadvantages:

  1. High Energy Consumption – The CRT technology is not considered energy efficient.  It requires more power to operate than the newer LCD technology.  CRT screens consume 3 – 4 times the energy when compared to the LCD screens.
  2. Expensive to maintain – CRT repairs are becoming more specialized and expensive as the workforce transitions to the newer technologies.
  3. Obsolete Components – CRT technology is outdated and beyond its life cycle.  Components required to support repair are becoming obsolete and expensive if available.
  4. Avoid costly new operator interface packages – MRO upgrades to LCD technology maintain the interface packages with your existing equipment (frames, communication connections, power sources, etc.).  Updated HMI’s from MRO are plug-n-play.
  5. Better Reliability – Heat generated by the CRT technology often shortens the life of the electrical circuit components.  CRT monitors tend to have a life of 18,000 to 20,000 hours.  LCD monitors provide more than 100,000 hours life.
  6. Clarity of Picture, Crisp Image – LCD’s make the screen burn often associated with CRT’s a thing of the past.  LCD image display is much clearer for the operator and will not fade.

MRO provides an HMI service to update your old CRT displays to LCD technology and new keypads.  This approach is a low-cost upgrade to superior technology with no risks. Visit our repair page, call us, or email us for an instant quote on fixing, swapping, or purchasing your new HMI device.

Our top HMI manufacturers include:

Repairing your Modicon Magelis HMI

Any amount of downtime is too much for most companies. Parts will break from time to time, and repairs will be necessary. Here at MRO Electric and Supply we are dedicated to providing the best service making sure that your downtime is minimal. Human Interface Terminals(HMIs) are a crucial part of any automation process nowadays, so it is important to make sure it is working correctly. Along with selling both new and remanufactured products, MRO Electric and Supply offers both repair and exchange services.

modicon hmi

Modicon was the first manufacturer to release programmable logic controllers onto the market, and since have been one of the top brands for PLC’s. MRO Electric and Supply have all the parts necessary to run the Magelis HMI at it full potential, including panels, cables, controllers, adapters and any software that may be needed. Along with repairs, we handle installations and programming of drives and controllers so that you don’t have to.

We also offer the option to retrofit your old machines with newer interfaces for the most up-to-date applications and processes. By fitting existing HMI’s with new interfaces you are able to add years to the life span of your automation set up. It is a lot easier to update and fix your existing displays and HMIs than taking the time and money to purchase and fit new parts.

All of our repairs come with a 12 month guarantee. Our repair service is based on doing the right job, and getting your part back to you as soon as possible. Every part we refurbish is tested to make sure they work the way they are supposed to. Our factory-trained technicians have many years working with Modicon products.

For a free Modicon Magelis HMI repair quote, please email sales@mroelectric.com or call 800-691-8511.  For more information on our Modicon repair capabilities, you can visit our Modicon Repair page.

LCD Retrofitting Benefits

LCD Retrofit

LCD Retrofitting Benefits

Part 1: CRT to LCD Retrofits

Many professionals in the automation space that have a CNC Machine (such as FANUC CNC parts found here) in their shop deal with pesky issues from time-to-time. One common issue for those who use CNC machines would be CRT monitors that begin showing their age. Several of our customers have been in this situation, feel as though they’re left with two choices: repair their CRT monitors, or replace them.

To be clear, those are not the only two options. The main reasons:

1.) it’s often time-consuming to pinpoint a CRT Replacement part.

2.) It is not cost-effective to have the CRT monitor repaired.

 Our alternative to the two options: an LCD retrofit (found in FANUC Displays and Controls) .

The advantages of retrofitting or upgrading a CRT monitor with an LCD retrofit are:

    • Improved screen visibility
    • Increased life of CNC Machine
  • Decrease amount of electricity used during operation

Part 2: Floppy Disk to USB Drive Retrofits

Another outdated piece we have encountered in the machine automation space? a floppy disk.  

Floppy disks are still in use today for some, often causing issues. By implementing an updated, customized USB flash drive, several issues can likely be avoided. What is now a slow and obsolete tool, the floppy disk is still in use with some of our clients and causing problems.  Our recommendation is a new custom-built USB flash drive solution.

Upgrading to a USB drive is usually a straightforward process. No changes or system configurations are necessary during this process, and yes, it will work on CNC machines and other devices that still use the floppy drive.

Nobody likes the costs of downtime including those in the machine automation space.

MRO Electric and Supply has new and refurbished FANUC CNC products available, including LCD Retrofit products. We also offer repair pricing. For more information, please call 800-691-8511 or email sales@mroelectric.com.

Schneider Electric / Modicon PLC and HMI Batteries

Schneider Electric / Modicon PLC and HMI Batteries

MRO Electric and Supply has new and refurbished Schneider Electric and Modicon Quantum parts available now, and also offers repair pricing. For more information, please call 800-691-8511 or email sales@mroelectric.com.

Schneider Electric / Modicon PLC and HMI Batteries

Product Line Model Type Part Number Manufacturer
140CPUxxxxx
Lithium 3V
990XCP98000
Duracell (DL2/3A)
(soldered connector)
Quantum 140XCP90000 Lithium 990XCP99000
Quantum
141MMS42501
Lithium 3V
990XCP98000 or Duracell (DL2/3A)
43502625 (soldered connector)
Quantum
141MMS53502
Lithium 3V
990XCP98000 or Duracell (DL2/3A)
43502625 (soldered connector)
Compact PC-O984-xxx Lithium 3.6V (long) “O” 60-0576-000 Eternacell (T04/41)
Compact
PC-A984-1xx
Lithium 3.6V (short) “A”
60-0576-100
Saft (LS3)
PC-E984-2xx Maxell (ER3STC)
Momentum
172xNN2xx2
Lithium 3.6V
170XTS15000
Tadiran (TL-5955)
PNN PV:03
JNN PV:01
Momentum 172xNN2xxx2 Alkaline “AAA” Commercially Available
110CPUx1x0x
Lithium 110XCP98000 Duracel (DL2/3A)
Capacitor 110XCP99000 (soldered connector)
Modicon 984 AM-C986-003
(2 cell pack)
MA-9255-000
Modicon 984 AM-C986-004
Modicon 984 AM-M907-1xx
Modicon 984 AM-M909-0xx
Modicon 984 AM-C921-xxx 60-0490-000
Modicon 984 PC-L984-x8x
Lithium 3.6V “AA”
60-0515-000
Eternacell (T06141)
Modicon 984 PC-O984-x8x Maxell (ERGC#5)
Modicon 984 PC-E984-x8x Saft (LS6)
Modicon 984 PC-O984-455 Tadaran (TL-5104)
Modicon 984 PC-O984-351
Modicon 984 AM-C986-004
Modicon 984 AM-C996-80x
Modicon 984 PC-M984-23x
Modicon 984 AS-B984-1xx
Modicon 984 AM-S929-00x
Lithium
MA-8234-000
Modicon 984 AS-B885-00x
Modicon 984 AM-O984-ATX 60-0490-000
Modicon 984 Rechargeable (Qty. 2) 60-0610-000
Modicon 984 100-865 (Qty. 3) 60-0595-000
Modicon 984 AM-O984-MCX 60-0582-000
Modicon 884
Modicon 884
AS-884A-xxx
MA-8234-000
AS-J890-x0x
Modicon 584 AS-506P-xxx Lithium (3 card) MA-0147-001
Modicon 584 AS-509P-xxx Lithium (4 card) MA-0147-002
Modicon 584 AS-M507-00x 60-0481-000
Modicon 584
3 Card Battery Pack
Lithium AS-5284-001
Alkaline AS-5284-002
Modicon 584
4 Card Battery Pack
Lithium AS-5378-002
Alkaline AS-5378-001
Modicon 484
Lithium MA-0147-001
Alkaline 60-0286-000
Modbus Multiplexer
Modbus Multiplexer NW-0278-000 60-0549-000
0085/0185 (Sharp)
0085/0185 (Sharp)
(with connector) PA-0254-000 Sharp
(without connector) PA-0493-000 (UBATN-5001-SCZZ)
Symax
Symax
Model 400
Lithium 3.6V “AA”
60-0515-000 Eternacell (T06141)
Model 450 29576-03688 Maxell (ERGC#5)
Model 600 (SqD Part #) Saft (LS6)
Model 650 Tadaran (TL-5104)
PS25
PS35
8052 MCM713
Symax
PS20/21
Alkaline “D”
Commercially Available
PS30/31
PS50/51
PS60/61
Symax
8005 Model 50
Ram Memory Pack
8005 MP1
8005 MP4
Symax
PS20
Battery Holder
29904-08200
(SqD Part#)
Symax
SCP1xx 8020 SMM115
8040 PCM-110 (SqD Part #)
Symax
M100
29904-08960
(SqD Part #)
Symax
8009 Compact
Lithium 3V (Type BA1)
Sanyo (CR12600SE)
TDI Battery Co. (?)
Otte Controls
(DUNT-521NCZZ)
Symax
Symax 20
8884 SBP20
(SqD Part #)
PanelMate
PanelMate
all models
60-0627-000
Maxell
60-0628-000
PanelMate PM0632400 (Qty. 3) 60-0595-000
PanelMate PA-0285-000
PanelMate MA-024M-000
Telemecanique
TSX Premium TSXP57xxx Lithium 3.6V “1/2 AA” TSXPLP01 Saft (LS3)
TSX Micro TSXP37xxx Single TSXPLP101 Maxell (ER3STC)
TSX Micro Ten Pack
TSX Micro
TSXMRPxxxxx
Lithium 3V “Button” TSXBATM01
Panasonic (BR2325)
Single TSXBATM101
10 Pack
CCX17
TCCX17xxx
Lithium 3.6V “1/2 AA” TSXPLP01 Saft (LS3)
Single TSXPLP101 Maxell (ER3STC)
Ten Pack
FTX117
TFTXRSMxxxxx
Lithium 3V “Button” TSXBATM01
Panasonic (BR2325)
Single TSXBATM101
10 Pack
TSX 17
Lithium 3.6V “1/2 AA”
TSX17ACC1
Saft (LS3)
Maxell (ER3STC)
(Soldered Connectors)
XBTKN
Lithium 3.6V “1/2 AA”
TSX17ACC1
Saft (LS3)
XBTKM Maxell (ER3STC)
(Soldered Connectors)
Series 7
TSX 27xx
2.6 V
AZ1 AQ 0006
2.4 Volt with minimum of 110 mAH
TSX P471x/P472x Shrink-wrapped cells
TSX RAM xx 8 Soldered on board
TSX AXM 162
TSX AXM 171xx/182
TSX SCM 2xxx
UC TSX 27
Series 7
TSX P473xx/P474xx 3.6V
AZ1 AQ 0002
3.6 Volt with minum of 110 mAH
TSX P67xxx Shrink-wrapped cells
TSX 76 x Soldered on board
TSX P871/P872/P874xx
TSX P76 x
TSX P107xxx
TPMX P474xx
TPMX P674xx
TPMX874xx
TPMX P1074xx
TSX T407 x
TSX RAM xxx 16
TSX MEM 4x
TSX P87 30/310 3.6V (Qty. 3)

Schneider Electric Magelis HMIs – Frequently Asked Questions Part II

MRO Electric carries new and refurbished Magelis HMIs. To request a quote, please call 800-691-8511 or email sales@mroelectric.com.
Magelis HMIs
Magelis HMIs

Why is the Magelis XBTRT511 is not giving me the correct floating point value reading on the alphanumeric display when communicating with a Momentum?
If you address the alphanumeric display as a %MW that is incorrect. To read a floating point value, you need to address the alphanumeric as a %MF.

Does the Magelis Panel PC, HMIPUC9D0E01, have line out to connect a speaker?
Yes, the Panel PC HMIPUC9D0E01 have a Line out to connect an external speaker.

Can I lose my alarms log in Vijeo Designer V4.5 when power cycling my Magelis XBT-GT?
Each alarm group can have 2 such alarm buffers: one for History alarm events (size defined by the “Num of History Alarms” property) and one for Log alarm events (size defined by the “Num of Log Alarms” property).
These alarm buffers are stored in the DRAM (Dynamic RAM: similar to the RAM of a PC) of the target. Therefore, if the target is turned off, the alarm buffers are wiped out. If you need them to be saved even when the target is turned off, you can enable the “Backup Alarm Group” property (at the global alarm level). This way, these alarm buffers will be stored in the DRAM and in the SRAM (Static RAM: doesn t get wiped out when the target is turned off) as well.
Since the size of these alarm buffers is limited (the maximum value for the “Num of History Alarms” and “Num of Log Alarms” properties is 10000), they won t always contain the whole history of alarm events on the target. To obtain that behavior, you can enable the “Save To File” property (at the alarm group level). This way, the alarm events will be saved into Excel files (on the CF card) and these Excel files will contain the whole history of alarm events for the corresponding alarm groups.

Is there a RS-485 cable to connect a M221 to a Magelis XBTN401?
No. There is no cable you must make your own the pin out is as follows;

4——–4
5——–5
7——–7
8——–8

No other pins can be used because the M221 can also be configured for RS-232. (can not use a straight through Ethernet cable).

What is the meaning of “PLC Returned error code 02H” for Magelis Targets HMIGTO ?The error “PLC Returned error code 02H”, means that you are trying to access an address in the slave device which is not defined or inaccessible or there can be issue with communication card , cable, or communication settings done inside IOmanager communication equipment channels must be checked. Mostly the issue observed is related to register mismatch between target and slave device. Correcting this will resolve the issues.

What is the the number of candela per square meter for the Magelis XBTGTO?
HMIGTO 3.5″ = 450
HMIGTO 5.7″ = 500
HMIGTO 7″ = 350
HMIGTO 7.5″ = 400
HMIGTO 10.4″ = 450
HMIGTO 12.1″ = 450

Can a Magelis HMI communicate to a M241 SL2 using SoMachine protocol?
The M241 can communicate to an HMI via SL2. The default communication settings for SL2 does not match the settings for the COM of the HMI (baud rate and parity are different). If the settings are adapted, the communication works fine.
Below is the RS485 pinout:

HMI to M241 SL2
Pin 4 to D1
Pin 5 to D0

Can the Magelis HMIPPF7A2701 be mounted at a 45 degree angle?
The unit can be mounted at a 45 degree angle as long as the ambient air temperature does not exceed 85F and that there is enough air flow surrounding the unit.

Why does Magelis HMI tell me to change my password when I log in?
In Vijeo Designer, there is a feature called Password Management. If this is enabled, and password expiry is enabled, your password will expiry in two cases:
1) At first login and
2) After the defined time has elapsed.

You will need to change your password in the runtime with the user manager part or redownload the application again.

Can I have two Magelis HMI to the same serial port of a M238?
No you cannot, there are two possibilities to realize configuration of a M238 + 2 XBTGTs.
You can connect an HMI to the SL1 of the M238 and the second HMI can be connected to SL2.

Why is there only some data logged in my Magelis HMI?
Vijeo Designer Runtime is designed to optimize storage for data logging by only creating a record when the value of the variable changes. If the value of the variable remains static, a new record will not be created (other than the initial record). Each record made is for a unique value. Vijeo Designer cannot send emails via SMTP2Go on the Magelis but is successful via simulation

When this situation occurs, it is likely the network settings on the HMI are incorrect. Ensure that the IP, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS server are all set up correctly. Typically you can compare your PC’s settings vs the HMI’s settings to find the differences (if they are on the same network).

Can the TM2 expansion modules be used on the Magelis STU and STO?
No, if you want an HMI that can use the TM2 modules you will need to go to the HMISCU series.

Is there a Magelis HMI that can withstand 80psi of pressure?
The HMIGTO xx15 series has been tested to withstand 10 bar of high pressure washing machinery. (10bar = 145 psi)

Magelis HMIs – Frequently Asked Questions Part I

MRO Electric carries new and refurbished Magelis HMIs. To request a quote, please call 800-691-8511 or email sales@mroelectric.com.
Magelis HMIs
Magelis HMIs

Is it possible to download to a Magelis HMISCU with SoMachine using the IP address connection mode?
SoMachine V4.1 SP1.2 does not support this feature. It is only possible to download using the Node name connection mode.

What methods are there to put a Magelis back to factory settings?
Use the Vijeo Designer Runtime Installer found in the Start menu under Schneider Electric\ Vijeo-Designer to re-install the Runtime.

What are the Magelis XBTGT7340 DIO output specifications?
The Run, System Alarm and Event Buzzer outputs are rated for 24VDC and 50ma.

What is the MTBF for the Magelis HMISTU855?
-LCD and touch panel of STU655/855 is 50,000 hours
HMISTU655/855 is 2,087,918 hours without LCD screen

Can the MBX Driver V7.0 be installed on a Magelis iPC Smart box with a primary 1GB CF card?
No there is not enough available space on the primary CF card. MBX Driver requires Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 which requires about 150MB of available space on the primary CF card.

Can I use a VESA mount on the Magelis iDisplay MPCYT90NAN00N?
Yes. The iDisplay MPCYT90NAN00N can be mounted using a 100mm VESA mount.

Why can’t my Magelis HMI Communicate over Ethernet?
One common mistake people make is plugging the Ethernet cable into the RJ45 COM port of the HMI. First thing to check is to see if your Ethernet cable is actually plugged into the Ethernet port (it is labelled accordingly).

Is there a replacement keypad membrane for the Magelis XBTR410?
No. There are no replacement keypad membrane for the XBTR410.

Does the Magelis HMISCU support 3rd party drivers?
The HMISCUs only support Schneider Electric protocols. It does not support any 3rd party protocols. It was a Marketing decision to not include 3rd party drivers.

Does the Magelis HMISTO have e-mail functionality?
Only the HMISTO531 and HMISTO532.

Can I delay the Startup on the Magelis HMIGTO?
A Startup delay can be added from the Target Properties under Startup Options.

What is the fusing recommendation for the Magelis HMISCU?
We recommend using a slow-blow, 2A type T fuse. Type T and Class refer to different characteristics.
Type T is a time-delay slow blowing fuse. They are available in a wide variety of form factors and amperages. They typically have a fast over current link for surge spikes and a slower over current link for longer overload conditions.

Which Magelis HMI models support DH485?
The following HMI series support the DH485 protocol:
XBTGT
HMIGTO
HMISTU
HMISTO
XBTGK
HMISCU
HMIG3U

Is a Magelis HMISCU capable of logging data?
A HMISCU is capable of logging data onto an USB memory stick. Only the Vijeo Designer part of the controller will be able to do data logging. The SoMachine Logic Builder part cannot do data logging.

What is the communication cable to connect a Magelis XBTN401 to a Twido TWDNAC485D MiniDin port?
The cable part number is XBTZ968.

What software is used to program Magelis HMIGXU series ?
Vijeo Designer Basic V1.0 and higher is used to program the Magelis HMIGXU series.

Can the keypad on the Magelis XBTGK’s be replaced?
No, the keypad or membrane on the Magelis XBTGK’s are not field replaceable. There are no replacement parts for these and it will most likely have to be sent in for a repair.

What are the MTBF’s of the Magelis HMIGTU series?
See attached for the MTBF’s for the Magelis HMIGTU ranges.

Is the Magelis HMIGTO work with neoprene gloves?
The Magelis HMIGTOs use a resistive touchscreen. The touch is activated when pressure is apply to the screen and can be used with neoprene gloves.

Can the Magelis HMI be mounted vertically?
No, the Magelis series of HMIs programmed with Vijeo Designer cannot be mounted vertically. The reason for this is because Vijeo Designer software assumes that the (0,0) coordinate is the top left corner of the screen.

Are the Magelis HMIGTO series ATEX Certified?
Yes, the Magelis HMIGTO’s are ATEX certified and the models are listed below.
HMIGTO1300
HMIGTO1310
HMIGTO2300
HMIGTO2310
HMIGTO2315
HMIGTO3510
HMIGTO4310
HMIGTO5310
HMIGTO5315
HMIGTO6310
HMIGTO6315

Magelis HMISTU boots to the message Runtime Unsupported : The hardware platform does not match the target type defined in the application. Is there a way to recover from this?
This usually can affect the following parts: HMISTU655/855, and HMIS5T. The HMISTU targets do not have a way to recover the Runtime. It is recommended that the unit be sent in for repair, or purchase a replacement unit.

HMIGTO5310

Magelis HMIGTO5310 Touch Panel – Product Spotlight

The HMIGTO5310 (HMI-GTO-5310) is a Modicon Magelis GTO advanced touchscreen panel. It features a 10.4 inch display with a 96 MB flash memory. The panel uses an external power supply of 24 Volts DC, and has a lithium battery for internal RAM. It’s back light lifespan is 50,000 hours at 25 °C. Using an SDHC or SD card, one can add up to 32 GB of data storage to the HMIGTO5310. It also has an internal RAM of 512 kB used to back up data. Using either the panel’s software or its touch panels, a user can control 16 different levels of screen brightness.

The HMIGTO5310 weights precisely 2 kg. It measures 272.5 x 214.5 x 57 mm (W x H x D).  The HMIGTO5310 can be mounted by using 4 screw clamps with flush mounting.

The HMIGTO5310 supports a large number of downloadable protocols, including the Modbus TCP, Siemens Simatic, Rockwell Automation / Allen Bradley, Omron Sysmac, Mitsubish Melsec, FIPWAY, Modbus Plus, Uni-TE, and Modbus. The panel supports a number of integrated connection types, some of which include the Ethernet RJ45, the USB 2.0 ports, COM2 serial links, and a COM1 serial link.  When using the COM2 serial interface, be aware that the serial port is not isolated. The signal ground and frame ground terminals are connected inside the panel. There is risk of electric shock if precautions are not taken. When using the signal ground terminal to connect an external device to the panel, verify that a short circuit loop was not created when you set up the system. Connect the #8 signal ground terminal to remote equipment when the host PLC unit is not isolated. Connect the #8 signal ground terminal to a known reliable ground connection to reduce the risk of damaging the circuit.

When setting up RS-485 communication, the cable diagram for some equipment may require polarization on the terminal side. This terminal does not require any special setting as it handles polarization automatically.

MRO Electric and Supply stocks HMIGTO5310 panels. For more information or to request a quote, please contact us at 800-691-8511 or at sales@mroelectric.com.