Touch Screen Displays for Micrologix 1400

This is probably not much use to you, but I also object to the cost of AB HMI panels, and the cost of the software and licences.

I use Micrologix 1500's with an RS232 link to a PC (be it a general purpose desktop, a laptop for diagnostics or an "industrial" PC with touch-screen etc.).

I create front-ends with MS VB6, and I've written my own DF1 interface software for comms between the PLC and the PC.

I use RSLogix 500 to program the PLCs, which uses factory talk (licenced, dongle-protected and Rockwell supported) - but that's as far as I go. BTW, factory talk is a pig to install and get working - first time I did it it took half a day.

Sorry I can't be more help - but I offer much sympathy.

We got one of these with our web dryer AB ControlLogix PLC controller. Can't remember which model, but I think they went with it to cut costs. It looks like it has all the functionality too.

Happy hunting!

Automation Direct has some inexpensive yet well-featured touchscreens with the required AB drivers. Their development software is inexpensive too.

http://www.automationdirect.com/adc/Shopping/Catalog/Operator_Interfaces

I have used Red Lion HMI's with AB PLC's in the past and it was pretty straight forward. Their Crimson programming software is free which is very nice.

Shawn

Crimson 3 is out now and also free. Friendlier after a short learning curve. Here's some info on AB comms.

Some of these options look pretty good thanks guys.

RDGRNR do you know if the crimson software is capable of communicating with a micrologix? I see the link you showed me there talks about compact and control logix comms, I'm just curious if it applies to other platforms of AB as well.

Nevermind I found the answer haha.

When you "find an answer", it'd be nice to share it with those of us following the thread.

Some of us might have the same question.

The answer is "yes, but". Micrologix is only 232 and 485 capable so ethernet is out but the Red Lion products are renowned for their protocol conversion capabilities. So, same AB software, just different delivery. _{Oh! Usual Disclaimer!}

You might want to check out Hope Industrial http://www.hopeindustrial.com/

They make drop in replacements for AB HMI's for generally less the $3000. Redlion also makes a good display but, I am not sure about their price range. As long as you are not dealing with a hazardous area there is quite a few HMI manufacturers out there. Good luck!

The last G310 I picked up was a little less than 2K.