Creating a project using Node-RED and a PLC requires multiple steps.
Here is the step-by-step procedure:
Step-1. Choose a PLC that works with Node-RED. Omron, Mitsubishi, & Schneider Electric are some of the notable PLC types that support Node-RED.
Step-2. Install Node-RED on your computer. You may get the most recent edition of Node-RED from the official website.
Step-3. Download and install the PLC driver for the PLC brand you’ve chosen. This enables Node-RED to communicate with the PLC.
Step-4. Create a new Node-RED project: Open the Node-RED software and start a new Node-RED project.
Step-5. Add the PLC node to the project you are working on. This node enables you to communicate with the PLC.
Step-6. Configure the PLC node: Configure the PLC node by entering the PLC’s IP address or serial port, as well as any other PLC-specific information.
Step-7. Add additional nodes: Add additional nodes to your project whenever necessary to control and read data from the PLC. Some common nodes for dealing with PLCs are:
- Input nodes: These nodes let you read data from the PLC’s input points.
- The PLC has two types of nodes: output nodes for writing data and analogue input nodes for reading data.
- Analogue output nodes: These nodes enable you to send analogue data to the PLC’s analogue output ports.
Step-8. Wire the nodes: Connect the nodes to form a flow that reads data from the PLC, processes it, & returns the results to the PLC.
Step-9. Deploy the project to the PLC. This transfers the flow to the PLC, allowing it to operate independently.
Step-10. Test the project: Make sure the project is working properly and that the PLC responds as intended.