DV-1000 Frequently Asked Questions
Use "Ctrl-F" to search for specific words in this FAQ.
Question:
Can I use the DV-1000 with a Series-105 PLC?
Answer
Yes, the Series-105 CPUs are treated just like the 230 CPU in the Series-205. The DV-1000 manual does not mention the 105 CPUs because at the time the manual was written there were no Series-105 CPUs.
FAQ ID: 196
Question:
Can I use the DV-1000 to change data in the PLC?
Answer
Yes. There are two modes available for changing PLC data:
1) Change Preset Mode lets you individually edit V-memory locations as a 4-digit BCD number, from a list of either 16 or 32 data word locations, and up to 99 timer presets and 99 counter presets (depending on CPU type).
2) Bit Control Mode dedicates 8 of the 10 keys on the keypad for single-bit control. These operate as eight momentary, normally off pushbuttons.
FAQ ID: 197
Question:
Is there password protection for modes that allow the operator to change PLC data?
Answer
Yes, there is for Change Preset Mode. See Chapter 6 in the DV-1000 for more on this topic.
FAQ ID: 198
Question:
How many DV-1000s can be connected to the PLC?
Answer
A maximum of two DV-1000s may be directly connected to the DL240 CPU. See Chapter 2 in the DV-1000 Manual for other options, and general information on this topic.
FAQ ID: 199
Question:
Can the PLC cause the DV-1000 to always power up in a certain mode?
Answer
Yes. The powerup default mode may be selected by using a particular entry in the parameter setup table. See Chapter 3 in the DV-1000 Manual for more on this topic.
FAQ ID: 200
Question:
Is there a way to cause the DV-1000 to stay in Bit Control Mode (or any mode that I choose)?
Answer
You can set up the DV-1000 to power up in particular modes. However, if the operator presses certain keys on the keypad, this takes the DV-1000 out of its original powerup mode.
FAQ ID: 201
Question:
Can the PLC cause the DV-1000 to change modes during normal operation PLC run mode)?
Answer
No. After establishing the powerup mode, further DV-1000 mode changes only occur upon keypad entry.
FAQ ID: 202
Question:
When does the DV-1000 read its setup parameters from the PLC?
Answer
These are read one time just after powerup, and any time a mode change is requested from the keypad.
FAQ ID: 203
Question:
What's the best way to enter setup parameters?
Answer
We recommend imbedding the setup as a part of the ladder program. Using a SP0 contact on the rung, it only executes on the first PLC scan. See Chapter 3 in the DV-1000 Manual for more on setup parameters.
FAQ ID: 204
Question:
I need to display the phrase "TEMP 1", followed by the present value of the temperature in PLC V-memory, and also to allow changing that value right on the display. Is there a way to do this?
Answer
Yes. Use Change Preset Mode, with user-titled labels.
FAQ ID: 205
Question:
Can I use the DV-1000 to change timer or counter presets in the PLC?
Answer
Yes. The Change Preset Mode will let you do this. See Chapter 6 in the DV-1000 Manual for more information on this topic.
FAQ ID: 206
Question:
Can the display show more ASCII characters than just letters of the alphabet?
Answer
Yes, the DV-1000 character set includes several special symbols. See Appendix B in the DV-1000 Manual for a complete listing of characters and symbols with their ASCII codes.
FAQ ID: 207
Question:
Do I have to enter the ASCII codes in instruction boxes, or can I just type in the letters?
Answer
Actually, you may do it either way. The LD/OUT and LDD/OUTD instructions may place ASCII codes in the text table, or the ACON instruction box can convert characters in the box to ASCII codes (see Chapter 4 of the DV-1000 Manual).
FAQ ID: 208
Question:
I need to show more than the display's 4 lines of text. Can I scroll or swap display screens?
Answer
Yes. The proper ladder logic will allow you to do this. Examples of multiple display screens and scrolling techniques may be found in Chapter 4 of the DV-1000 Manual.
FAQ ID: 209
Question:
Can I use the DV-1000 keypad to control machine functions, like Start, Stop, Step Jog, Run, etc.?
Answer
While technically possible, we strongly recommend against this type of application. Major machine control functions are best implemented with larger, dedicated switches, knobs, etc. The keys on the DV-1000 are intended primarily for various monitoring functions, or for occasionally changing V#memory Preset Values. See the next question and answer!
FAQ ID: 210
Question:
Are there other operator interfaces available from Automationdirect.com?
Answer
Yes. Please call our Technical Support Line for the latest information on other DirectLOGIC compatible products available from us or from industry affiliates.
FAQ ID: 211
Question:
Can the PLC sense when the operator makes keypad entries?
Answer
It depends. Bit Control Mode is designed for general key detection for eight of the ten available keys, which are redefined from their normal function. In the other modes, DV-1000 keypad activity cannot be detected in the PLC.
FAQ ID: 212
Question:
Can the display indicate when the DV-1000 is in Bit Control Mode?
Answer
Yes, but with some qualification. The display can be in Message Display Mode and the keypad in Bit Control Mode simultaneously (which is selectable as a powerup default mode). Ladder programming can detect keypad activity, and coordinate the message display to provide visual feedback from the keypad entry. However, the operator can leave the Message/Bit Control Modes if they desire.
FAQ ID: 213
Question:
Can I display a numeric value in Message Mode with a leading +/- sign?
Answer
Yes. An example ladder program that does this is in Chapter 4 of the DV-1000 manual.
FAQ ID: 214
Question:
Can I display a blinking text message during an alarm condition?
Answer
Yes. An example ladder program that does this is in Chapter 4 of the DV-1000 manual.
FAQ ID: 215
Question:
I plan to use the DV-1000 only with a DL230 or DL240. Is there low-cost DirectSOFT programming package available just for the DL205 family?
Answer
Yes. The PC-PGM-205 programming package is available, at an attractive price for the DL205-only user.
Note that this package has been discontinued.
FAQ ID: 216
Question:
What is the purpose of the the adjustment screw at the bottom of the DV-1000 housing?
Answer
Rotate this screw to adjust the intensity of the display back-light.
FAQ ID: 217
Question:
Will the DV-1000 support the OP-9001?
Answer
Not at this time.
FAQ ID: 625