TG - How to communicate an NB with an NX PLC

Modified on Fri, 7 Feb at 9:53 AM

Purpose

This guide explains how to properly set up the NB and the NX PLC to communicate with each other over Ethernet Communication.

Objective

The NB HMI series uses a separate software to develop their projects. Is commonly used with another vendor's PLC or with the C series, however, the NB has the capability to connect with the NX/NJ PLC series too.

Supported devices

NB HMI Series
NX1 PLC Series
NB Desginer V1.43 or higher
Sysmac Studio

Requirements

NB Designer Software
Sysmac Studio Software
NX1 PLC Series
NB HMI Series
Ethernet cable Cat5 with RJ45 connector on both sides.
Ethernet hub (optional)

Procedure

Step 1: Go to the NB designer and add an Ethernet Connector, on the Communication Settings Window, select Comm Protocol as Omron NX1 Series Ethernet UDP ->

Step 2: Drag and drop the Driver Omron NX1 Series Ethernet (UDP Slave), add another Ethernet Port select PLC and change the IP address to the PLC IP address ->

Step 3: Once both devices are all set you must have the Communication Settings as follows:

Step 4: Go to Sysmac Studio and create a new Project, for this example, we will use an NX102 PLC, then under Configurations and Setup -> Controller Setup -> Memory Settings, check the WR Area:

Step 5: Create the global variables and on the AT column use the %W to assign a specific memory section to share with the NB HMI, you need to Publish the variables too:

Step 6: Create your ladder program, using the HMI Inputs and Outputs variable assigned. Once the program is finished, transfer the program to the PLC:

Step 7: Go back to the NB Designer and create the Objects that will activate the inputs on the PLC, use the W_bit or W Area to have access to the PLC variables. When the screen is finished transfer the project to the HMI and test it:

Date/Revision History

First Review 12/23/2024 V1.0

2nd Review 01/21/2025 V1.1

Author:

Karla Flores Avila, Technical Support Specialist

References

Connecting a NB HMI to Sysmac NX1 controller over Ethernet