SuperCom S5 PLC Data Communication

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Frequently Asked Questions on accessing a PLC using 3964 / 3964R and RK512

How to read a specific value out from the plc ?

The SuperCom 3964 Protocol Engine includes easy to use functions that enable to read and write values to different areas of the plc. For example RS_DataModuleRead and RS_DataModuleWrite can be used for "Data Modules". A short list of functions can be found here.

Is it possible to get protocol events ?

Yes. The SuperCom 3964 Protocol Engine offers special events that report the actual protocol state (e.g. EV_SYN_OK, EV_SYN_RETRY, EV_NAK).

Is it possible to cancel the protocol at a specific state ?

Yes. The SuperCom 3964 Protocol Engine offers special events that report the actual protocol state. On each of this reported events you can cancel the protocol.

Is it possible to run a specific protocol function in background ?

Yes. The SuperCom 3964 Protocol Engine offers - by option - to execute protocol functions asynchronously. The event will inform the application when the function is done. In case of a Fetch or Read, data are presented with the done event. That is complete event driven data commmunication.

What protocol should I use ?

When working with a S5 or compatible plc access to plc areas like "Data Modules", "Flags", "Counters" etc. is best and easiest done using high level functions like RS_RK512_DataModuleRead.

Using the 3964 or RK512 or even AS511 protocol functions directly is considered as a low level access and the programmer must know what type of data packets (telegrams) to transmit.

Using the 3964 or RK512 or even AS511 protocol functions directly can be also very useful if the requirement is similar to: monitor data packets, do a protocol conversion (e.g. 3964/RK512 to MODBUS converter), exchange simple known data packets with a 3964 capable printer or display etc.

Using the low level 3964 function one can easily transfer or receive data packets transparently according to the specification. The SuperCom 3964 protocol function does not care about the content.
A short list of functions can be found here.

Is it possible to control more than one PLC simultaneously ?

Yes. Using the SuperCom 3964 Protocol Engine your application can control up to 255 concurrent connections with each PLC connected to a different serial port.

Using SuperCom you overcome many limitations. SuperCom was designed and used from the beginning in high demanding data communication applications.

3964 Protocol Engine