Arduino to CompactLogix Comms

I've seen that some people have had success in communicating from an Arduino to a CompactLogix controller via DF1. I am using an L33ER controller that I don't believe has a DF1 port. Is anyone aware of a method for setting up comms through EtherNet/Ip? My application is a simple control interface with about 8-off momentary push buttons to send onto the CompactLogix via the Arduino, plus 3-off 1024 encoders that send a setpoint, and also another 8-off DO from the Arduino to switch on lamps when teh buttons are pressed. I wouldn't be doing any control with the Arduino. I could do what I want with a cheap Micro830 for ~£230 but its just too big to fit in my interface plastic moulding. Currently it's all hardwired and I am looking to get rid of the long lengths of unwieldy cable, hence the push to run everything down an Ethernet cable.

I guess I could look to install a DF1 gateway, like this from Prosoft, but if I have EtherNet it would seem a shame since all other comms are running that way?
http://www.prosoft-technology.com/P...ave-Network-Interface-Module-for-CompactLogix

I am not aware of any Ethernet/IP libraries for the Arduino so I think you'd have to start from scratch there which seems like a daunting prospect. However, if you really would like to use ethernet to connect to the Arduino with the CompactLogix there do exist ModbusTCP libraries. Here is an example.

If you have or acquire a Raspberry Pi, I could help you communicate to it via Python over Ethernet.

Thanks for the information, I will take a look. It would require a ModBus gateway to enact comms in this way though, I believe?

Thanks, this certainly sounds interesting. I have an original Pi at home gathering dust, i'm willing to give it a try if you can give me some pointers.

I had thouht about something like this as being more 'acceptable' and less hobbiest. I dont have any experience of these guys though, and again requires a ModBus gateway to establish the comms at the PLC.

bgtorque said:

Thanks, this certainly sounds interesting. I have an original Pi at home gathering dust, i'm willing to give it a try if you can give me some pointers.

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Here's a project that will allow you to read/write data to your CompactLogix.

https://github.com/dmroeder/pylogix

We can talk details if you want to try this route. Ether here, or you can email or PM me.

Thanks very much, have downloaded and will take a look. I appreciate the assist!

As far as I know CompactLogix controllers now have ModbusTCP built in - no modbus gateway required.

bjh said:

As far as I know CompactLogix controllers now have ModbusTCP built in - no modbus gateway required.

Click to expand...

I think you are correct. You could probably do it with the Arduino then. I'm guessing you'd probably need an Ethernet shield.

Maybe this?:

http://myarduinoprojects.com/modbus.html