How to connect the weighing sensor to the computer and PLC?
Load cells are passive electronic components because they only need voltage excitation to work. Their main function is to capture force value signals and feed them back to the central control or display instruments.
In industry, common uses of load cells include connecting to an instrument to directly display weight values, connecting to an upper computer, programming via PLC for feedback and control, and connecting to a computer for transmission via wired or wireless methods. On the computer, measurement values can be viewed, and with developed computer software, PC-side control can be realized.
To achieve the connection between load cells and computers, such a requirement is for computer operation and control in industrial automation and instrumentation equipment, facilitating improved quality management and work efficiency. Usually, there are related supporting components. When selecting, first choose a sensor with suitable accuracy and range, then select an amplifier or instrument. If a dual display of the instrument and computer is needed, this solution can be chosen. Usually, an amplifier is sufficient, but the output interface method must be confirmed, such as RS485, RS232, USB, and network port output methods. Also, the communication method must be confirmed. Commonly used protocols include MODELBUS RTU, CAN, etc. Then, a set of software used on the computer terminal for display should be selected or developed for easy viewing of measurement values and control.
With these basic components configured, computer connection can be realized. In actual application, factors such as high-speed or low-speed transmission, remote or near-field transmission, wired or wireless connection, and transmission of data from a single or multiple sensors are also considered, all of which are closely related to the selection of communication protocols.
Of course, some do not need computer display and can be directly connected to the upper computer, which has different advantages in space, function realization, and cost compared to computer connection. Now let's see what the role and conditions of PLC connection are.
When connected to a PLC, it can be used with an upper computer. A PLC is a logic controller that can be programmed to operate and control equipment. For setting the parameters of the machine, it needs to be modified or set through the upper computer, which is an industrial display mini computer.
- Common injection molding machines and machine tools have electronic displays that can be operated by touch or manual key pressing. This type is used in combination with PLC to achieve effective program control.
The connection between a load cell and a PLC requires an amplifier to process it into a standard signal and then input it to the PLC. Here, the interface method is also considered. Similar to the output interface of the above amplifier, the PLC then writes code according to the needs of the equipment to achieve effective control and feedback.
Choosing the PLC connection method can realize independent control of a single machine. With the advent of the Internet of Things era, one computer can control multiple devices, which is the difference.
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