2 Visual Components Manuals

Introduction to Visual Components 2.3
The permissible value range of the variable is determined in the control application using PLC Value Range. If
the range exceeds the specified limits on the controller, asterisks (*) are displayed instead of the value to
indicate an overflow.
Scaled Value Range sets the appropriate value range for the display of the value. The 0% value corresponds to
the 0% value in the PLC value range and the 100% value to the 100% value in the PLC value range. Scaling
takes place using a straight line function.
For both value ranges, settings for the 0% and 100% values can be made directly in the dialog box or using a
process variable during runtime. The appropriate Parameters from PLC box has to be selected to define value
ranges with PLC process variables (see picture − value range panels). In this way, the input fields change
themselves into selection fields for limiting using variables. Variable names can be directly entered or selected
from a list by clicking on the Assign... button.
Using the Shift Decimal Point setting, a process variable can be connected which is able to move the decimal
point around within the output field during runtime. For this, a postive variable value means more decimal places
(decimal point moves to the left) according to the value. A negative value means less decimal places (decimal
point moves to the right).
Note:
The Shift Decimal Point setting is only possible if at least one decimal place was set under the Parameter tab of
the 'Object Properties' dialog box.
4.6.2.3 Output String
This output field allows STRING[] process variables (STRING array with any length) to be represented. Only
characters up to the 'Number of Characters' setting are displayed even if a longer text is stored in the process
variable.
4.6.2.4 Output Date/Time
The date and time on the controller can be displayed during runtime using this output field. Output format can be
selected according to requirements. However, it cannot be changed during runtime or switched with the
language. If more flexibility is needed, then an Output String field can be used instead. Formatting the output
text takes place in the control application.
4.6.2.4.1 Time Format
This setting determines how the date and time are formatted for display. For this, only the formats in the list are
available. Other formats can be implemented in the control application and displayed using a string output field.
4.6.2.3 Output String 327