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HMI500
Series
EZWare-500
FAQ
What software do I need to
configure my HMI500 Series HMI?
Can I import my own
bitmaps into an HMI500 Series
HMI?
I have a number of
the same objects that I want to display on every window. Do I have to create
and configure these objects on every window?
How
can I print my Window Screens to include in manuals I create?
How can I make a Bitmap of my windows?
How can I have the PLC change the HMI's Window?
Can
I store non-volatile data in an HMI500 Series
HMI?
Do
the HMI500 Series have a built-in Real-Time clock?
Does the HMI500 Series have any security
features?
Can I connect several HMI500 Series HMIs to
one PLC?
Can I connect one HMI500 Series HMI to
several PLC's?
Can I create an animated display on an
HMI500 Series HMI?
Can I print a screen, trends,
alarms, events or reports from an HMI500 Series HMI?
Where
can I get detailed information on how to use my HMI500 Series HMI with my
PLC?
Where can I get information on a cable for
connecting my HMI500 Series HMI to my PLC?
I
don't see my PLC listed as being supported by the HMI500 Series. Will you write
a driver for my PLC?
On the back of my HMI500
Series HMI, there is a bank of DIP-switches. What are they for?
I have an object on a window that I want to duplicate a
number of times. Do I need to Copy and Paste it over and over?
Can I duplicate a window in my project?
How can I copy a window from one EasyBuilder project to
another?
How do I upload (extract) a project that is
in my HMI500 Series HMI?
EZware-500 Troubleshooting
I keep getting a Time-Out
message when I try to send my project to the HMI.
What do I do when PC shows "Uploading Image Table" and then
it does nothing?
I loaded version 2.6.0 and my
simulator does not work.
Windows Compiler error
causes crash of EasyBuilder.
After uploading my
project and decompiling it, my object addresses are incorrect.
My project downloads, but it won't run. (Blank Screen)
I can't change text.
I don't get
my register data (or graphic shapes) to show & there is no error
displayed.
I can't edit my project ("You are not the
owner of this software" error message)
I can't
upload a project from the HMI because it asks for a password
EZBuilder crashes when I load my custom bitmap.
All of my pop-up windows are not being displayed. I've
double-checked my addresses and window numbers. What else should I
check?
My Numeric Input object is not accepting any
data from my keypad. What is wrong?
My trend graph will
not show data until I enter the trend screen, I want it to capture trend data
in the background.
EZware-500 Error Messages
"Could not initialize
installation"
"Erase Image Fail"
"When EasyBuilder starts, a "Fatal Error" is shown, telling me
that a file cannot be found (STDFONT.16, SPC1615S.FNT, or H16X16.FNT)
"
"You must have newer EasyBuilder.exe (at least
V.2.6.0) to open this project"
"EasyWindow MUST running
from EasyManager or EasyBuilder"
"Mode" Error
"EasyWindows has experienced an error. EasyWindows.exe must shut
down."
"C:\MapleSystems\EZ500\EasyPLCDriver.dll was
not found"
"C:\MapleSystems\EZ500\EasyPLCDriver.plb
was not found"
"EasyManager <path & Name of your
project file>"
"Window 0 Part <RC_0>:PLC
Address is not in the correct limitation ."
"This
program has performed an illegal operation and will be shut down.""COM 1 Fail" or "COM x Fail" Error when trying to run
EasyBuilder
Can't find "japandrv.bin"
"Object
Queue Full Out of system resources - Contact Maple Systems"
"You are not the owner of this software"
EasyBuilder Bugs (As of version 2.6.0)
Macros
HMI500 Series Hardware FAQ
I get a "blank
screen"
HMI500 Series Hardware Error
Messages
HMI Screen
Errors
I get a "PLC No Response". What could be
wrong?
I get a "PLC Response Error" or "Always
Responsed Error"
"Severe System Error (Error
10001)"
"Severe System Error (Error 10002)"
"Severe System Error (Error 10013)"
FAQ
What software do I
need to configure my HMI500 Series operator interface?
All HMI500 Series models are configured with EZware-500
Configuration Software. It is optimal to stay up to date with the newest
software upgrades via our unpublished link. Click the following : www.maplesystems.com/cgi-bin/download/software-ezware-500.asp
to install the EZware-500 software. When the download is
complete, run ezsetup.exe.
Top
Can I import my own
bitmaps into an HMI500 Series HMI?
Yes. The supplied bitmap libraries can be expanded, or
custom libraries can be created. The HMI500 Series only supports 256 color
(8-bit) bitmaps. It is possible to easily convert graphics images using
"Windows Paint" or some other graphics program that supports saving images as
256 color Bitmaps. Be sure the image saved is not larger than the screen size
of the HMI (HMI520x: [320x240] or HMI530x & HMI550x: [640x480]).
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I have a number of
the same objects that I want to display on every window. Do I have to create
and configure these objects on every window?
No. These objects can be displayed in a Common Window that
shows on every screen. To create a common window (the default common window is
window # 6):
- Select Window-Open Window.
- Select New Window and then
select Common Window.
- Place the objects on the common window. Objects placed
on the Common window are visible on every window.
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How can I print my Window Screens
to include in manuals I create?
Start the Simulator in either On-line or Off-line mode. In
the simulator, select the screen to be copied. Press ALT+ PRINT SCREEN. This
will put a copy of the simulation window on the clipboard. Next, paste the
picture in the clipboard into a document. The picture can be cropped or edited
by pasting it into a graphics program such as Paint.
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How can I
make a Bitmap of my windows?
Select Tools-On-line Simulation or Tools-Off-line
Simulation. Right-click anywhere on the Simulator window, and select
Print Screen to File. In the dialog, provide a name and save the
bitmap.
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How can I have the PLC
change the window that appears on the HMI?
Create a PLC Control.
- Select Parts-PLC Control.
- Set the Attribute to Change Window.
- Set the Read Address to the PLC Address
that will contain the number of the window to be displayed. When the PLC
register changes the value contained in that register, the HMI will change to
the window with the new number. The PLC can monitor the current window
displayed: Local Word LW9050 contains the number of the currently displayed
base window. The PLC may also use incremental windows plus an offset. Load the
offset window number into LW9055 (i.e. 10) and the PLC Control object can
contain the value to add (i.e. 2) to get a result of window #12.
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Can I store non-volatile data
in an HMI500 Series HMI?
Yes. All HMI5xx-002 and later models support non-volatile
memory (battery-backed RAM) called "recipes". Recipe words (16-bits) are used
by selecting a data type of "RW" and a recipe bit is selected by using a data
type of "RB". Recipes can also use an offset address for ease of selecting
multiple recipe groups. Store the recipe offset in local word 9000 (LW9000).
Then use RWI (recipe word indexed) to access each recipe word.
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Do the HMI500
Series HMIs
have a built-in Real-Time clock?
Yes. All HMI5xx-002 and later models offer a built-in
Real-Time clock. The real time clock data is stored in local word locations:
9010-9016 (See the HMI500 Series Operation Manual for more information). All
models can obtain Real-Time Clock data from the PLC if the PLC supports
this.
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Does the HMI500
Series have any security
features?
Yes. All HMI500 Series models have three levels of passwords
for limiting access to Windows [Edit-System
Parameters-{Security tab}-check box: Security
Control]. See
Tech
Note #1074. Another password restricts uploading a project out of the HMI,
and prevents any boot ROM updates. This password can be set in:
[Edit-System Parameters-{General tab}-Password].
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Can I connect several
HMI500 Series HMIs to one PLC?
Yes. Up to 255 HMI500 Series HMIs may be connected to one
PLC. One 'master' HMI is connected to the PLC, and a number of 'slave' HMI's
are daisy-chained to the master. The master and slave units may be any mix of
HMI models. There may be a significant increase in response delay as more HMI's
are connected. See Tech
Note
#1075 for more information.
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Can I connect one
HMI500 Series HMIs to several PLC's?
Yes. However, this is supported only for Modbus Slave
devices. The HMI must be configured as a Modbus Master Device. See
Tech
Note #1070 for more information.
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Can I create an
animated display on an HMI500
Series HMI?
Yes. "Animation" can be done by moving a shape object along
a path of stepping stone markers (these can be non-linear, such as a bouncing
ball), or by moving a shape ("Moving Shape") using X- and Y- coordinates
relative to the shape's original position (these must be linear, such as a
linear actuator). For an example of this, see the animation screen in the
HMI520Cdemo.epj file that comes with the EZWare software. More information
about animation can be found in the animation chapter of the
Operations Manual.
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Can I print a
screen, trends, alarms, events or reports from an
HMI500 Series HMI?
Yes. All versions of the HMI500
Series, except the HMI520M
blue mode HMI have a connector for a parallel port-driven printer. Most
DeskJets, Epson, and Cannon printers are usable. See
Tech
Note #1073 for more info. Screen windows can be printed from an
object("Function Key '"Hard Copy") placed on the window or by a bit in the PLC
using a "PLC Control object". The window to be printed must be displayed and
all objects on the window will be printed as a "Screen dump". Reports can be
printed by creating a formatted report in a window and setting that window
number into a register (PLC or Local). The report window does not have to be
displayed, to be printed.
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Where can I get detailed
information on how to use my HMI500
Series HMI with my PLC?
Maple Systems has a library of Controller Information Sheets
for all PLC's that the HMI500
Series HMIs support. To view a list of controller
information sheets,
click
here.
Top
Where can I get
information on a cable for connecting my HMI500
Series HMI to my PLC?
Maple Systems has instructions for assembling cables in the
Support Center section of our website. To view cables,
click here.
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I don't
see my PLC listed as being supported by the HMI500
Series. Will you write a
driver for my PLC?
Please contact Tech Support about current protocol
drivers. Sometimes a PLC or motion controller may not be listed but it may
still be used by one of our generic protocols, such as Modbus RTU (Master) and
ASCII (Slave). Maple Systems is continually adding new protocols to our
products and updating our technical support documents. Contact our
Sales Department for requests
about new protocol driver development.
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On the back of my
HMI500 Series HMI, there is a bank of DIP-switches. What are they for?
They are for servicing the HMI500
Series, and are not used
in normal operation. Dip switch #1, when placed in the ON position, puts the
unit in touch-screen calibration mode. Dip switch #2, when placed in the ON
position and the unit is reset, will place the unit in forced communication
mode. The unit will display 11 lines of text describing some internal
configuration information and it will open the communication port and wait for
a command from the host PC to initiate a download or upload. Be sure to flip
all dipswitches back to the OFF position (down) for continued normal
operation.
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I have an object
on a window that I want to duplicate a number of times. Do I need to Copy and
Paste it over and over?
Not if EZware-500 v1.20 or newer is being used. Instead, select
Edit-Multi. Copy and select your desired settings.
Or you can highlight the object(s) and press CTRL+C.
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Can I duplicate a
window in my project?
Yes, select Edit-Window Copy and
select the source window number. Then, select the destination window from the
pull down list.
Top
How can I copy a
window from one EasyBuilder project to another?
- Note the file name and window number(s) that you want to
copy from ("source window").
- Open the project that that will contain the window
destination. Select Edit-Window Copy
and browse for
the previously noted file that contains the window to be copied.
- Enter the source window number and select the destination
window number.
- Select OK.
Another way to copy a window is to open the project whose
window is to be copied and open the window.
- Select Edit-Select All Objects.
- Select Edit-Copy (or press CTRL+C).
- Open the project to receive the window data.
- Create a new window, open it, and then press CTRL+V to
paste the data.
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The up-loader (Using the "EZManager" software) extracts the
compiled (*.eob) project file from within the HMI. If the project contains a
password, it must be entered in order to gain access and upload the project. If
there is a project in the HMI that is password protected and you do not have
the password or the original software project file (*.epj), then there is no
way to extract the project. There is no back-door password.
Once a compiled project is extracted from the HMI, it then
needs to be decompiled. EasyBuilder can open only a decompiled Project (*.epj)
file. Projects that were created and compiled with any EasyBuilder-500 before
version 2.0 cannot be "decompiled".
- Connect the configuration cable between the HMI and PC.
- Open EasyManager and select Project
Download/Upload and Complete Download/Upload from the drop-own
selection boxes.
- Click Upload, and select the project name and
directory where the project will be saved. This file will be saved as a
compiled *.eob file.
- Open EasyBuilder, and close all open projects
(File-Close).
- Select Tool-Decompile. Browse for the uploaded
compiled *eob file and select Open.
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Troubleshooting for
EZware-500/EasyBuilder
I keep getting a
"Time-Out" message when I try to send my project to the HMI500
Series HMI. How
can I fix this?
EasyBuilder is unable to communicate with the HMI500
Series.
Solution:
- Make sure that the HMI is powered up.
- Check the cables, make sure they are secure and they
ohm-out (see doc.1029-0098)
- Start EasyManager. Make sure it is set for the right COM
port.
- Make sure the cable is connected to the correct port on
the PC and the correct port on the HMI.
- Close all other applications. Also check the Tool Tray
area. Some PLC programming software leaves their drivers open.
- If all else fails, flip DIP switch #2 Up (to the ON
position) and push the RESET button near the switches or power cycle the unit.
The HMI should come up in a text mode, and it is forced into communication
mode. Now try to download again. After the download is complete if finished,
flip DIP switch #2 back down (OFF).
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What
do I do when PC shows "Uploading Image Table" and then it does nothing?
EasyBuilder is unable to communicate with the
HMI. The COM setting is valid, but the communication to the HMI does not occur.
Solution:
- Check the cables, make sure they are secure. Wiggle them
and then re-try the download process.
- Check for correct port connections. Make sure the cable
is connected to the correct port on the PC and the correct port on the HMI.
- Check cable orientation. Make sure the cable orientation
is correct. Both connectors are 9-pin D females and the cable can sometimes be
reversed. If it is reversed, this error will occur. It is recommended that the
cable ends are labeled.
- If all else fails, flip DIP switch #2 Up (to the ON
position) and push the RESET button near the switches or power cycle the unit.
The HMI should come up in a text mode, and it is forced into communication
mode. Now try to download again. After the download is complete if finished,
flip DIP switch #2 back down (OFF).
- If the HMI (with Dip Switch 2 OFF) will change from
graphical mode to text mode, then the HMI receive is working, however if the
transmit connection is broken in any way, this is where the program stops
because at this time the HMI sends an acknowledgement back to the PC.
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I loaded version
2.6.0 and my simulator does not work.
There is an issue with downloading where it does not always
load every file. One file that is often not loaded in the EZ500 directory is
"EasyAuxDriver.dll".
Solution: Re-install EZware-500. If the
error recurs, email Tech Support
and the file will be emailed.
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Windows Compiler
error causes crash of EasyBuilder.
This may occur after uploading a demo project, decompiling
it, making a change, and recompiling. The most probable cause is that the PLC
type has become deselected.
Solution: In Edit system
parameters, see if there is a PLC type selected.
This error may also occur in version 2.6.0 when the aux port
is checked on an object, but no aux port protocol is selected.
Solution: In Edit system parameters, make sure there is
an aux port protocol selected if the aux port box is checked.
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After uploading my
project and decompiling it, my object addresses are incorrect.
The project may not decompile correctly if it was compiled
from an earlier version of software.
Solution: Use the earlier
version of software to upload the project and decompile it. Save the project to
your computer's hard drive. Check to see that all the addresses are now
correct.
Next, open the newest version of software and open the
project file (*.epj). A dialog appears stating that EZware-500 will be updated
to the newer version and it cannot be used in the older version software.
Select OK. The older project should reflect the same addresses in the
new project format. Compile this and check for errors.
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My project downloads, but
it won't run. (Blank Screen)
There are possibly two reasons the project will not run:
- The HMI unit did not receive the command to run the
program. This situation is easily checked by cycling power to the unit. If it
now runs, then you may do two things to correct this.
Solution:
- In "Easy Manager", click on the Jump to
Application button.
- In "Easy Builder", select from the top menus:
Option-Window Property… and check the box next to
Jump to application mode when download done.
- Older software may be used with newer hardware
Solution: Check the version of your EasyBuilder software. For
the newest HMI500 Series HMI units (designated on the back of the unit by the
dash revision [-005 or greater]), version 2.5.0 or higher should be used. Email
Tech Support for an upgrade
link.
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I can't change
text:
It is possible that the font size and number of characters
exceed the screen size width.
Solution: Try reducing the font
size or the number of characters to ensure the text function does work. Text
exceeding the size of the current window will not be displayed.
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I don't get my
register data (or graphic shapes) to show and there is no error
displayed:
If all parameters and station IDs are set correctly, it is
most likely that the project only been partially downloaded. Something may have
changed in the protocol that didn't get properly loaded.
Solution: In EasyManager, select Complete Download/Upload
and exit. Then re-download your project to the HMI.
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I can't edit my
project ("You are not the owner of this software" error message):
This can occur while attempting to access the project from a
network drive. In this case, it is possible to get the project to load, but
making a change requires administration or ownership rights for network
directories
Solution: Contact your IT administrator. Otherwise,
copy the project from the network drive onto local hard drive. This allows
editing and saving of the project from a local drive instead of a network
drive. In order to do this, EZware-500 software must be installed on the hard
drive and not run from the network drive.
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I can't upload a
project from the HMI because it asks for a password:
The project cannot be uploaded from HMI without the
password. There is no back-door password available.
Solution: It
is possible to obtain the password from the project file. To access, select
Edit - System Parameters - {General} tab - Password.
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EZBuilder crashes when I
load my custom bitmap.
The bitmap that was loaded in the library is most likely
oversized or saved as the wrong format. The HMI500
Series only supports
256-color (8-bit) bitmaps. Do not use or save images that are larger than the
screen size of the HMI (HMI520x: [320x240] or HMI530x & HMI550x:
[640x480]).
Solution: Convert graphics images to the appropriate
size using Windows Paint or some other graphics program that supports saving
images as 256-color bitmaps.
Top
Solution: Double-check the addresses that are
supposed to call up the window, making sure they are correct and valid
addresses that don't conflict with other objects. If opening more than six
windows, select Edit-System Parameters Select the
General tab and set No. Of Windows to a higher value. This
setting determines the maximum number of windows that can be displayed
simultaneously. The highest setting is six.
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My Numeric Input
object is not accepting any data from my keypad. What is wrong?
Solution: Check that the Numeric Input object's
Input low and Input high values are correct (select
Parts-Numeric Input and then select the Numeric tab). Also check
to make sure theTrigger address (under the General tab) is high.
Check the Keypad itself. Often there is an invisible object to clear the bit
that activated the keypad. This is usually wrapped around the ENTER and the ESC
keys. Make sure this (clear-bit) object is on the bottom layer behind the ENTER
and ESC function keys. In Edit-System Parameters-Editor, select
Nature for the "Part Layout" style.
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My trend graph will not
show data until I enter the trend screen, I want it to capture trend data in
the background.
This may occur during an off-line simulation with changing
data registers on the current screen. The trends do capture data in the
background. This can be seen by running the simulator ON-LINE with the PLC. In
the OFF-LINE mode, the simulator has no data to capture.
Solution:
Data can be mimicked in the OFF-LINE simulator by placing on the Common
Window (Window #6) some Set Word objects configured as "step up" or "periodical
toggle", and pointed to the registers captured by the Trend Graph. The trends
should now show you the captured data.
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EZware-500/EasyBuilder Error
Messages
When installing
the EZware-500 software, an error reads "Could not initialize
installation".
The screen may display a message such as: "File size
expected = 6330969, file size returned = 6331453" although the numeric values
may be different. It is probable that the file did not get downloaded from the
web properly. This issue has occurred when files have been downloaded from the
web via a dial-up connection or a wireless broadband link.
Solution:
This can be resolved by using a hard-cable broadband connection.
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I get an "Erase Image
Fail" message when I try to send my project to the HMI.
It is probable that the project is too large for the HMI.
When the project is compiled, the total size must be no larger than the HMI's
Flash memory. Using a lot of bitmaps, or a few large ones, can push a project
beyond the memory limit.
Solution: When creating bitmaps to
import into EasyBuilder's libraries, try to use only the size and color depth
needed. Also, check the Compress box on the Bitmap Library screen.
Please note that compressing bitmaps can affect the speed with which bitmaps
are displayed by the HMI.
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When EasyBuilder starts,
a "Fatal Error" is shown, telling me that a file cannot be found (STDFONT.16,
SPC1615S.FNT, or H16X16.FNT).
The Language may not be set to English.
Solution:
On the Option menu, make sure that Language is set to
English.
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I get "You must have
newer EasyBuilder.exe (at least V.2.6.0) to open this project" when trying to
open a uploaded file.
This error occurs when opening the *.eob file that was
uploaded from the HMI and version 2.5.0 or 2.5.2. of the EZWare-500 software is
being used. This *.eob file is a compiled file and not a project file (*.epj).
The *.eob file needs to be decompiled back into a project file. At the time of
this writing, version 2.6.0 has not been released, but when it is, it will be
capable of opening the *.eob file and will automatically decompile it into a
project file.
Solution: To turn a compiled project back into a
working project:
- Close all open projects in EasyBuilder
(File-Close).
- Select Tool-Decompile and browse for the *.eob
file.
- Select Decompile and Close when done. Now
the *.epj should open without problems.
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"EasyWindow MUST running
from EasyManager or EasyBuilder":
An invalid COM Port has been selected in EasyManager while
running the Online/Offline Simulator. The simulator software can only use COM1
through COM4.
Solution: Select COM1, 2, 3, or 4 from
EasyManager, and then run the simulator.
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"Mode" Error:
This error occurs while uploading/downloading a project, or
running the Online/Offline Simulator while using a COM Port other than
COM1,2,3, or 4. In older versions of software, the uploader and the simulator
software can only use COM1 through COM4
Solution : Be sure there
is an available serial COM port set. Select COM1, 2, 3, or 4 from EasyManager,
and then run the simulator.
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"EasyWindows has
experienced an error. EasyWindows.exe must shut down":
This error occurs during on-line or off-line simulation. It
is most likely caused by an internal problem the project. Most commonly, this
error is the result of a bitmap that is the wrong format for the specific HMI
type being used.
Solution: Try changing the format of
bitmaps.
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"C:\MapleSystems\EZ500\EasyPLCDriver.dll was not found"
Error:
This error occurs when users attempt to run a second
simulation when there is already a session open.
Solution: Find
the "EasyWindow" program in the task bar (bottom of PC) or in the task list
(CTRL+ALT+DEL) and close this program before starting another. This can also be
caused if the EasyPLCDriver.dll has the "Read Only" property set. This file
needs to be read/write capable.
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"C:\MapleSystems\EZ500\EasyPLCDriver.plb was not found"
Error:
This can be caused if the EasyPLCDriver.plb has the "Read
Only" property set. This file needs to be read/write capable.
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"EasyManager <path &
Name of your project file> File" Error:
The project file cannot be found. It may have moved or been
renamed or deleted while EasyBuilder was still open.
Solution:
Save the file again.
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"Window 0 Part
<RC_0>:PLC Address is not in the correct limitation".
<RC_x> is the Report Print function in the PLC Control
objects. This error message indicates that the address given is outside of the
addressable range.
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"This program has
performed an illegal operation and will be shut down."
This error message occurs while performing an online/offline
simulator and writing to an numeric input that has a RWI address, as well as
while using Modbus RTU Extend V3 protocol with Extended Address mode.
Solution: Contact Tech Support and we will email you
new templates to use. (The templates to use are the ones found in version 2.4.0
beta).
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"COM 1 Fail" or "COM x
Fail" when trying to run EasyBuilder
This error most likely occurs when another Windows program
is running that is using the same COM port.
Solution: Check for
other open programs or a PLC server running as a TSR. Check task manager
applications by pressing CTRL+ALT+DEL. Close any programs that may be running
on the COM port.
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"Can't find
'japandrv.bin' " error when trying to download a project.
The project is being download a project using the demo
version of software. Several files have been stripped from this version
including the *.bin files.
Solution: Contact
Maple Systems to order a full
version of EZware-500 software.
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"Object Queue Full -Out
of System Resources - Contact Maple Systems."
The object queue represents the number of objects on the OIT
screen that require updating. If this number exceeds 1000, this may slow PLC
communication throughout.
Solution: Change the design of the
window displayed. For instance, place a numeric input on the common window that
reads LW:9020. Additionally, check for constant running macros (ones that don't
shut off) or very fast data transfers (0.0 secs).
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Known Bugs in EZware-500
Macros:
Floating point variables can be defined and used
within the macro, but they can not be retrieved as floating point registers by
a GetData() or written by a SetData() function.
When "Extended" mode is selected for addressing, the
macro requires the extended mode format be used. For example, if the statement
used to be GetData(variable, 4x_Binplc, 123,1) and "Standard"
addressing mode is selected, then this will work fine and the macro will get
the data from address 4x:123 at the address specified in the "PLC Station No.".
But if Extended mode is selected then the macro addressing needs the
"[unit address]#" format, so the previous GetData statement would now
look like: GetData(variable, 4x_Binplc, 5#123,1) and the address would retrieve
the 4x:123 register from unit #5.
Macros that were written before version 2.6.0 now require
you to add "plc" or "aux" to the end of the data type syntax. Due to adding the
existence of the AUX port, the macro needs to determine which port to use. For
instance, with the statement: GetData(var, 4x_Bin, 123,1), the statement will
not compile properly. Add the port extension to the end of the data type syntax
- for example: GetData(var, 4x_Binplc, 123,1) to access through the standard
PLC serial port, but do this: GetData(var, 4x_Binaux, 123,1) to retrieve data
through the auxiliary port.
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Hardware Errors and Error
Messages
HMI SCREEN
ERRORS:
| Message |
Cause/Resolution |
| Attach PLC |
Initiating communication with PLC. |
| Attach Fail Suggest Reset PLC |
Cannot setup communication with PLC, turn PLC power
off and start again. |
| Invalid Window Number <n> |
A change screen command issued by either Function Key
or PLC Control attempted to switch to an undefined screen; <n> denotes
undefined screen number. |
| PLC Data Block Queue Full |
The PLC device on a screen is divided into too many
blocks (more than 100). Reduce the PLC Block Pack setting. |
| BCD Transfer Overflow |
An attempt was made to enter an illegal data value
into a BCD type register (such as entering 10000 to a 16 bit BCD
register). |
| Text Index Out of Range :Font Style (nn) |
The text string contains illegal values that access
characters out of the font table range. <nn> denotes the illegal
character code. |
| Mini Second Timer Full |
Out of system resources - Contact
Maple Systems |
| Second Timer Full |
Out of system resources - Contact
Maple Systems |
| Object Queue Full |
Out of system resources - Contact
Maple Systems |
| PLC no response * |
HMI lost communication with PLC: incorrect cable
configuration to PLC or incorrect System Parameter settings for PLC. |
| PLC response error* |
PLC replied with an unexpected response message,
caused by a read command or write command. Check if the selected PLC device
address is configured in the PLC |
| "PLC Always responsed error" |
If "PLC response error" message appear over 10 times
will display this message. The HMI will continue communication with PLC after
about 2 seconds.PLC reply timing was off. Try to adjust response time in the
PLC if this is possible; if not, report problem to
Maple Systems. |
| System Severe Error* |
System has run out of memory - Contact
Maple Systems |
| Touch Queue Full |
System has run out of memory - Contact
Maple Systems |
| Project image error, compiler again |
There is an error in the compiled project file
(*.eob). This is typically due to the bitmap image files saved in the wrong
format. The bitmaps MUST be saved as 256 color bitmaps. The bitmaps may need to
be exported, changed to 256 color, then deleted from the library and
reinstalled into the library. Then Save & Recompile the project. If the
problem persists, contact Maple
Systems. |
| Window <N> was opened As a common Popup
Window |
A request was made to change to another Base window,
but the requested window was a Popup window. |
| This PLC Only Support Write <n> Words of Word
Data |
The HMI can transfer a maximum of 16 words of data to
PLC, but some PLC's don't support this much data. Change the number of
words. |
| Base Window<n> Must Full Screen Size |
An attempt was made to open a new Base window, but
the specified window was not a full-size window. |
| Width and Height Must Be same with Window 4 |
When changing the Fast Select window, the new window
must be the exact same size as window 4 |
| Printer pool overflow |
Printer data overflow, data will be lost. |
| Printer fail! |
Printer not ready or Printer buffer is full |
| This PLC Only Support Read <n> Words of Word
Data |
HMI can transfer maximum of 16 words data from the
PLC, but some PLC's don't support this much data. Change the data length. |
| This PLC Only Support Read <n> Words of Word of
BIT Data |
HMI can read maximum of 16 bits data from the PLC,
but some PLC's don't support this much data. Change the data length. |
| White Board Support Popup Style Only |
A White Board must be created and displayed as a
Pop-Up window. |
| Not Support Operation |
The requested operation is not supported. |
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I get a "PLC No
Response". What could be wrong?
There are a number of things that could cause
this…
- The cable is wired incorrectly, or has an open or a
short. (i.e. no communications with the PLC).
Solution: Double check
cable wiring and test for continuity, as well as for any shorts between
adjacent pins. Verify the cable with our
Cable Assembly
Instructions.
- The HMI has the wrong protocol loaded from a previous
project.
Solution:In EasyManager select Complete
Download/Upload, and download the project again. This will download the
protocol driver that is set as the PLC Type contained in the menu: [Edit
-System Parameters - {PLC tab} -PLC Type]. Once the new protocol has
been loaded, you can change back to Partial Download/Upload in the
EasyManager.
- The HMI is referencing a PLC address that is invalid or
does not exist.
- The system parameters do not match the PLC port
parameters.
Solution:From the menu, select: [Edit -System
Parameters - {PLC tab}], and check the following:
- PLC Type: Make sure it is correct for the PLC
being used.
- Serial Port I/F: This determines which HMI
port is activated.
- Baudrate: This must match the PLC Port
setting.
- Data Bits: This must match the PLC Port
setting.
- Stop Bits: This must match the PLC Port
setting.
- Parity: This must match the PLC Port setting.
- PLC Station: This must match the PLC address
setting. If you are not sure of the communication parameters for your PLC or
Motion Controller, then:
- Download Maple Systems'controller
information sheet from the website. Try using the suggested settings first.
- Try different combinations of baud rate, data-bits,
and parity, or
- Check the controller's user manual for the default
settings and use those, or
- Check the communications parameters of any software
that came with the controller that you know works.
- Call the controller manufacturer to see if they can
help determine the communications parameters.
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I get a "PLC Response
Error" or "Always Responsed Error"
This response indicates that the HMI can communicate with
the PLC, but that the response message from the PLC/Controller indicated there
was an error with the command that was sent to it. "Always Responsed Error"
Occurs after several "PLC Response Errors" have occurred. This error is
typically caused by:
- Trying to read from, or write to, a PLC Address that does
not exist. For example, an addressed object in the HMI is outside the address
range supported by the PLC or the address is not defined in the PLC as an
available address.
- The HMI is trying to write to an address that is
Read-Only.
- The HMI is trying to access a PLC Register with an
invalid format, such as attempting to read a 16-bit register with a 32-bit
object or addressing a register bit using a one digit bit address form (i.e.
TYPE: B3 ADDRESS: 5.3) which is an incorrect format, since bit addressing
requires two digits such as ADDRESS: 5.03.
- The bit type selected is incorrect. For instance
intending to address a bit in a N21 file type register, word 4, bit 2 and using
an object like a bit lamp to read the bit. If it is addressed using a Device
type: Bfn and Device Address: 02100402, then a PLC responsed error
could occur because the bit is being sought in a 'B' file type instead of an
'N' file type. The user should use: Device Type: NfnBit Device
Address: 02100402.
- A common situation that causes this is setting up a PLC
Control Object that is a "Change Window" type which is set to read a PLC
register (for example N7:0); however, the HMI requires that the next address be
available to be written to as a feedback. (e.g. N7:1). If this was not set up
in the PLC as an available register, it will create this "Response Error"
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Severe System Error
(Error 10001)
This error occurs when the HMI is low on system memory
resources (RAM).
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Severe System Error
(Error 10002)
This error is generated when project memory is low. This is
usually due to large bitmap compressions.
Solution: Uncompress
the bitmap images on that page and verify that the error goes away. If
compressed bitmaps are desired, make the bitmap image size smaller in another
program and reload it into EasyBuilder.
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Severe System Error
(Error 10013)
This error is generated by using newer software with older
revision units. (5xx-001, -002, & some -003 revs.) when using certain
password protected protocol drivers.
Solution: Please contact Tech Support for the fix to this
error message.
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I get a "blank
screen"
After a download, the screen is blank after cycling power or
running the application. It appears that the project downloads just fine.
- It is possible that EZware-500 has recently been
upgraded, but an older complied version of the project was downloaded.
Solution: After upgrading, all existing projects need to be
re-loaded, saved and re-compiled in the new version of software. It is
advisable to save all existing projects in a backup directory that describes
the version in which they were compiled (i.e.
…\V252ProjectBackups), because saved & recompiled in
the new software version, the older software versions will not be able to
recognize the new format.
- New software may have been downloaded, but a desktop icon
may still be pointing to the older software.
Solution:In some
models of HMI, they require the newer version of software (i.e. Models -005
require ver 2.5.0 of better, Models -006, require ver. 2.6.0 or better.).
Delete any desktop icon that points to EZWare & re-create one from within
the EZ500 directory.
- The project may not have downloaded completely.
Solution:Be sure "Complete Upload/Download" is selected in
EasyManager. Then, flip DIP switch #2 Up (to the ON position) and push the
RESET button near the switches or power cycle the unit. The HMI will boot in
text mode and forced into communication mode. Now try to download again. After
the download is complete, flip DIP switch #2 back down (OFF).
- The power supply may be marginal.
Solution:If there is not enough voltage/current to operate the
screen's inrush current, the screen may become blank. Check the voltage across
the terminals while the unit is on. It should be +24V +/-. Try a different
power supply.
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