FactoryTalk Logix Echo
GERRIE ROCKWELL AUTOMATION GROUP - Automation and Software -December 2021
By John Mundt
The new FactoryTalk Logix Echo is a new controller emulation software platform. For the first time, users will be able to not only emulate the ControlLogix 5580 family of controllers, but also servo drives. FactoryTalk Logix Echo software can be loaded on a server or the same desktop or laptop the PLC programming software is running on. The FactoryTalk Logix Echo software platform can connect to FactoryTalk View ME, SE, and Studio 5000 View Designer for testing SCADA & HMI applications with the PLC code.
FactoryTalk Logix Echo partners well with 3rd party simulation software such as Emulate 3D, MATLAB Simulink, and MapleSim. Simulation software can not only be used to test PLC code loaded into the FactoryTalk Logix Echo emulated PLC, but also machine prototyping, virtual commissioning, product through-put, and operator training.Â
A good example would be a new bottling line. The simulation software can be used to build a prototype of the components that makeup the system. Then a simulation of the system can be used to perform a virtual commissioning, testing the PLC program. This also allows the system to be tested without risking damage to the equipment. The simulated line can be tested at higher-than-rated speeds with different scenarios to see how it will react without the added cost of lost product, broken bottles, and the time to clean up the line after each tested scenario. After the virtual commissioning is completed, the simulation can then be used to train operators. FactoryTalk Logix Echo is a part of digital engineering helping to save time and money from design to installation.
About The Author
John Mundt, Product Manager