Functions/Function Blocks - LS Electric XGB PLC from AutomationDirect

XG5000 contains many functions and function blocks for a programmer to use in their Scan Programs or Tasks. In general, functions do not have memory allocated to them. Function blocks, however, do have allocated memory and they allow for internal data storage. There are some functions and function blocks that have the same functionality but have inputs of a different data type. For example, the LIMR function block is for integer data, but the LIMR_R function block is for REAL data. To add a function or function block to our code, we highlight a valid cell and click the Function/FB button or press F10. This brings up the “Function/Function Block” pop-up window. In this window we have a few options for finding the function block we want. The “Name” field allows us to start typing the name of the function or function block we want to use. We also have options to view all “any type” functions, or to edit a function block instance name prior to adding it to the program. Checking the box for the View All “Any” type functions, will allow us to see all data type specific functions. If we leave the box unchecked, we will only see functions that work with any data type. The second check box is only used by other PLC series from LS Electric so we can ignore it for the XGB. The radio buttons allow us to see functions only, function blocks only, or both. The fields below that are the function/function block categories on the left and the functions and function blocks on the right. Once we select a function or function block, it will show us more information about the inputs and outputs below. Finally, all functions and function blocks have descriptions in the software to tell the programmer what they are, how they work, and how they might be used. To view this information, we can select the “Help” button once we have selected a function or function block.