2 Visual Components Manuals

After the 'Transmit LED Matrix' option has been selected, the variable can be connected in the 'Source' field. To
do so, the variable name can be entered directly or selected by clicking the 'Assign...' button.
To control LEDs, the array elements must be defined with the following values:
Element Value Associated LED Status
0 The LED is turned off
1 The LED is turned on
2 The LED blinks slowly (depending on the hardware, approx. 1 Hz)
3 The LED blinks quickly (depending on the hardware, approx. 4 Hz)
4.10.7 Using the Key Matrix
Function keys provide a series of possibilities to influence variables within the control application from the
current visualization project. These variables are defined in the context of the visualization idle time.
Function keys are not suitable for implementing true jog key operations or other similar time−critical functions.
The same constraint also applies to the key matrix parameters configured in the Visual Components project.
The key matrix can be connected to a variable. This is also only implemented in idle time and is not suitable for
time critical operations.
To solve this problem, a new implementation of the key matrix is available beginning with Visual Components
Version 2.1 in which the user can actively trigger the acquisition of key information using a function.
4.10.7.1 Using the Key Matrix
Key matrix operation is possible using the Visual Components programming interface (VISAPI Functions
Overview). Using this interface, optimal timing can be actively predefined in the control application.
4.10.7.1.1 1. Integrating the Library
The Visual Components programming interface is contained in the 'Visapi' library. It must be imported to the
current project using the Library Manager. Details about importing libraries can be found in the general
Automation Studio documentation.
4.10.7.1.2 2. Selecting a Programming Language
The functions in the programming interface can be used in all text−based languages which can use library
functions (this is not possible in the Ladder Diagram).
Examples of implementation in Automation Basic and ANSI C are described in the following.
Introduction to Visual Components 2.3
394 4.10.7 Using the Key Matrix