Uses of Alias Tag Types?

[scarince]

I know there must be a basic answer to this, but could someone give me an example of how one might use an Alias tag type in practice?

I think I understand how they work, but I feel like maybe I'm missing something because I can't understand why one would ever use them?

Thanks!

 

[Geospark]

Hi,

Here's some info I provided a while back on Aliasing and the different methods used, etc...

http://www.plctalk.net/qanda/showthread.php?t=87828

Regards
George

 

[jstolaruk]

Here is a reason to use an alias in its simplest form. Lets say I have a system with one input module. To address a push button that I have connected to the first input on that module in the program, I have to refer to it as "Local:1:I.Data.0". Every time I want to use that in a rung I have type that out. Yuuck. So lets create a bool tag that aliases that input point and name it "PB1". "PB1" is now an alias to "Local:1:I.Data.0". Now when I build a rung, I just type in PB1 where I want to use that input point. RSLogix5K now associates "PB1" with "Local:2:I.Data.0".
A nice feature to that example is that if I know what components are in a system, but the hardware design hasn't been finished, I can start the logic by creating simple un-aliased tags, such as "PB1", and when the design is complete I can edit those tag properties and assign them aliases to actual inputs - I don't have to edit the logic for the newly resolved addresses I was waiting on.

 

[jtashaffer]

The best use is mapping your I/O. Make a new routine to map your real world inputs and outputs

 

[RET]

The best use is mapping your I/O. Make a new routine to map your real world inputs and outputs

I couldn't agree more.

Aliases makes navigating a program more difficult for someone coming in after you, unless that is part of your evil plan.

 

[scarince]

Thank you all, that makes perfect sense.

 

[rkukl]

I create alias to match wire numbers on prints. So troubleshooting a tech can enter wire number to find program use.

 

[scarince]

That's a good idea too........I hadn't thought of that.

Thanks again.