Webinar on FactoryTalk Logix Echo

Introduction

• Speakers: Scott Peters (Sales Manager), Mike Shot (Product Specialist)
• Location: Erie Rexella office
• Recording: Webinar will be available on YouTube later in the week

Overview of FactoryTalk Logix Echo

• Purpose: Software that emulates a Logix controller for executing PLC code
• Platform: Windows environment
• Comparison: Newer, more advanced than Studio 5000 Logix Emulator

Key Features

• Dashboard: Main user interface for interaction
• Emulation Support:
  • Currently supports 5580 ControlLogix PLC
  • Future support for 5380 CompactLogix and GuardLogix controllers
  • Supports firmware versions 33 and up
• Installation:
  • Compatible with Windows 10 Professional 64-bit and Windows Server 2016 Standard 64-bit

Licensing

• Subscription-based licensing model
• Two levels of support:
  • 8 to 5 support
  • 24/7 support
• One license supports 17 controllers in an emulated chassis

System Requirements

• Logical cores and memory allocation required per controller instance

New Features

• Project File Usage: Same project file as a physical controller
• Controller Support: ControlLogix 5580, CompactLogix 5380, GuardLogix
• Virtual SD Cards: Supported by default
• Ethernet Port Emulation: Allows IP assignment to controllers
• Compatibility:
  • Compatible with Rockwell and third-party HMI software
  • Supports SIP Class 3 messaging

Demo Highlights

• Dashboard Overview: Clean and minimalistic interface
• Controller Management: Adding and managing controllers
• Network Integration: Demonstrated with FactoryTalk Links
• HMI Software Integration: Demonstrated basic interaction with View Designer

Comparison with Studio 5000 Logix Emulator

• Support Differences: More advanced emulation and features in Logix Echo
• Motion Instructions: Supports virtual axes only

Technical Capabilities and Limitations

• Connection Limitations: Cannot connect to physical I/O devices or real drives
• Redundancy and Motion Support: Limited to virtual environments
• APIs: Two APIs for third-party integration and simulation

Digital Twin Integration

• Concept: Combining mechanical CAD and logical operation
• Benefits:
  • Test machinery before physical builds
  • Improved operator training through simulation
  • Risk-free process testing

Additional Scenarios

• Use Cases:
  • Design verification and testing
  • Operator training without equipment risk
  • Remote troubleshooting and testing

Conclusion

• Benefits: Speeds up design cycles, reduces commissioning time, mitigates risk
• Standalone Use: Useful for testing HMI interactions and multi-controller systems

Final Note

• Encouragement to explore digital twin concepts and FactoryTalk Logix Echo as a standalone tool