RSLogix 5000 Watch Window

[rocket]

Hi all

I have been programming in Siemens Step 7 for several years but am now also using RSLogix 5000 (v17). And no - I'm most definitely not wanting to start a "which is better" debate!

The one thing that really drives me crazy with RSLogix though is the apparent lack of an equivalent feature to Siemens' "Variable Table". Am I missing something or is the ONLY way to monitor multiple tags from different programs to use the optional Tag Data Monitor tool in conjunction with RSLinx Classic (not lite) or Enterprise?

Thanks

 

[Operaghost]

Your title is your answer. The Watch windows.

Click on view and select Watch.

OG

 

[rocket]

Yes but it's not at all the same.
1) You can't save pre-defined/custom watch windows
2) You can't undock it and resize
3) You can't open multiple watch windows

 

[Operaghost]

Correct you cannot save your settings.
The window can be moved and resized.
Correct you cannot open multiple watch windows.

All of those features are part of the RSLogix5 and RSLogix 500 but have been neutered in RSLogix 5000.

Word is that the next rev (v18) will allow you to save a watch window but we still probably cannot get multiple windows.

So, not great answers......
OG

 

[John M]

You can also download the RSLogix Custom Data Monitor Tool from the Rockwell Downloads Page. You can save multiple pages of Data to Monitor in it.
http://www.rockwellautomation.com/rockwellsoftware/downloads/

It requires that you set up an OPC topic in RSLinx so you need a licenced version of RSLinx (Professional or better).

 

[Operaghost]

That is precisely what was griping him in post #1 of this thread. You have to have a purchased copy of RSLinx to do this.

OG

 

[John M]

Oops - missed that part. That is what happens when you try to do forty things at once. It is too bad they didn't include the Custom Data Monitor as they did in Logix 500. You need the purchased RSLinx to use any other program as well (HMI software or Excel) so there really isn't any good alternatives unless he just wants to use the trends - which can be saved.

 

[BAJ1]

Apparently you still can't save the watch windows in v19?

 

[jkerekes]

How about v20? :hmmm

 

[Operaghost]

Incorrect. Version 18 added that capability. Still not multiple windows, but they can now be saved and recalled.

OG

 

[BAJ]

Incorrect. Version 18 added that capability. Still not multiple windows, but they can now be saved and recalled.

OG

Any pointers on where they hid this wonderful feature?

 

[Operaghost]

Not really hidden...Right where it says "Enter Quick Watch List Name" type a name and hit enter. That's it. It will then be available under the Quick Watch drop down menu

OG

 

[BAJ]

Wow, that text is almost completely invisible on my screen. I had to tilt my screen at an abnormal angle to read it. Thanks for the tip.

Any idea where this information is stored? I don't suppose it's available as an externally editable text or CSV file?

 

[Bolatov]

Thanks for the info Ghost opera

 

[pache11]

Saved 'Quick Watch' disappears after 'upload'. How does one make this permanent?