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The process of creating a Structured Text routine is the same as before.
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Structured Text Programming Interface in RSLogix Studio 5000
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In this introductory tutorial, we're going to explore the basics of structured text, go over the fundamentals of the interface that are different from ladder logic and lastly build a few simple examples to illustrate an assignment of a variable. Furthermore, it's also possible to leverage string manipulation through Excel in order to create easy to copy and paste code for your simple assignments. In fact, the structure in ST is much closer to a traditional programming language such as C, C++, Java or Python than it is to ladder logic.Īn implementation in structured text allows the programmer to create complex routines and flows that may not always be as easily implemented in ladder logic. For example, a FOR loop would take a single line of code to implement in ST while it requires a separate routine in ladder logic. In contrast, those who are coming into PLC programming with a background in software engineering may found it easier to understand than ladder logic. It's typically hard to transition into structured text after investing time in learning ladder logic. The advantage of using structured text over ladder logic isn't always apparent. These different ways of programming are as follows: Structured Text, Function Block Diagrams and Sequential Function Charts. That being said, most PLCs, including Allen Bradley ones, offer others ways of implementing logic. Through ladder logic, you can create programs that are easy to maintain, understand and augment over-time. However, certain approaches would be much more applicable in certain cases and less so in others. As you develop your skillset in PLC programming, you'll realize that there are many ways to accomplish the same task.
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