Hi all

I have done many projects with LOGO, but one big issue has been the display.

Tiny screen and cramming info into it or TDE is losing ground against other devices.

Using phone is not always an option with web browser when its a liquid fertilizer controller operated by semi skilled workers

Then need:
Red and Green button - easy to install 22mm buttons

Big numbers to see easily the amount given or when setting the PLC - this is not so easy..

So what are my options, these days? 
Siemens KTP series only?

Hello Alan.

I have avoided using an HMI with a Logo! up to this point but a few thoughts might still be helpful.

Would a touch screen be suited for your purpose? I am guessing that it might not be.

Siemens offers the KP300 that is a bit on the small side but uses buttons instead if the touch screen. The down side is that it is a bit more difficult to work with. Best you have a Siemens Rep. demonstrate to you how it works in actual process. The form factor I think is what you would need.

The KTP400 is also smaller but works rather well. The graphic display is really good on it. But like any touch screen it will not want rough handling.

Omron has a good range if we are talking about brand name at a better price. Make sure you ask for models that can handle Modbus TCP. Some of their models only have serial ports, so be careful. The software is for free.

Delta Electronics' product range is at a lower price. Availability of a model that has Modbus TCP is uncertain.

Schneider Electric has a good range but those are more expensive. They do not have a smaller screen size as far as I know. (..or none that they marketed to us.)

Rockwell's Allen Bradley HMI range is worth looking into. The software is for free for the PanelView 800 range and the price is a bit lower than Siemens (depending where you buy). I enjoy using the 4 inch display which also offers Modbus TCP.

You may find some products at RS Components, but those are normally more expensive than what you can get at agents who recognises you as an OEM.

Regards.

Thanks both for the opinions

I am quite brand loyal, and have no desire to learn a new programming language (if I can help it)

So my options are:
1) Use TDE, for slightly more display area and fixed keys that do not require the 'Hold esc" action.
TDE is not cheap, as such, but I dont have to invest time learning new programming or on licencing.

2)  KTP 400 or KP 300 gets me way better display (KTP)  or more rugged buttons (KP 300)
Similar price hike, and customer can choose which is their preference
But requires upskill on my part, and licencing that i will have to absorb for many projects to come.

3) Get baby screen (Touch or non-touch) PC that I can run the built -in Web Server (LWS) on
LOGO. Programming remains largely the same, some upskill required for HTML5 interface.
Use 22mm physical push buttons on the panel for navigation (wired into DI of LOGO)
That will cost me 6 DI (Up,Down,Left,Right,OK, back)
So I will need expansion DI unit (but i also get extra DO...)

4) Will a KP8 work directly off LOGO??  TIA Portal seems to think so.. Spec sheet says it can handle Modbus.

I'm really set on providing a rugged solution, thats why i keep coming back to cheap, user replaceable hardware.

I'm not sure how long the KTP buttons or screen would last in those conditions.
Unless someone has experience with the shield options?

Remember, its water, acids and fertilizers on the operators hands/gloves, and it goes everywhere.

HMI KINCO