GE Fanuc Automation

Programmable Control Products

CIMPLICITY® Control:
Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor

GFK-1385 November 1997

 GFL-002
Warnings, Cautions, and Notes
as Used in this Publication

Warning
Warning notices are used in this publication to emphasize that hazardous
voltages, currents, temperatures, or other conditions that could cause
personal injury exist in this equipment or may be associated with its use.
In situations where inattention could cause either personal injury or
damage to equipment, a Warning notice is used.

Caution
Caution notices are used where equipment might be damaged if care is not
taken.

Note
Notes merely call attention to information that is especially significant to
understanding and operating the equipment.

This document is based on information available at the time of its publication. While efforts
have been made to be accurate, the information contained herein does not purport to cover all
details or variations in hardware or software, nor to provide for every possible contingency in
connection with installation, operation, or maintenance. Features may be described herein which
are not present in all hardware and software systems. GE Fanuc Automation assumes no
obligation of notice to holders of this document with respect to changes subsequently made.

GE Fanuc Automation makes no representation or warranty, expressed, implied, or statutory with

respect to, and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, sufficiency, or
usefulness of the information contained herein. No warranties of merchantability or fitness for
purpose shall apply.

The following are trademarks of GE Fanuc Automation North America, Inc.

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CIMPLICITY Genius ProLoop Series Six
CIMPLICITY PowerTRAC Genius PowerTRAC PROMACRO Series Three
CIMPLICITY 90–ADS Helpmate Series Five VuMaster
CIMSTAR Logicmaster Series 90 Workmaster
Field Control Modelmaster

All rights reserved.

©1997, GE Fanuc Automation North America, Inc. (Charlottesville, USA) and
Cegelec (Levallois-Perret, France)
.
 Preface

Content of This Manual

This manual describes the features that are used to program Series 90™-70 and
Series 90-30 PLCs using the CIMPLICITY Control SFC Editor, Release 2.0. This
manual does not describe the features and functions that CIMPLICITY Control
software shares with the SFC Editor. For information on these features and
functions, please refer to Using CIMPLICITY® Control, GFK-1295.
Chapter 1. Introduction. Provides a brief overview of the SFC editor.
Chapter 2. Understanding SFC Programming. Provides a general
introduction to SFC programming, including basic structures and
a sample application.
Chapter 3. Working in the SFC Editor. Describes how to use the
CIMPLICITY Control SFC editor software to create and edit SFC
logic.
Chapter 4. Troubleshooting. Describes how to use the diagnostic tools
available in the SFC editor.
Chapter 5. Printing SFC Documents. Describes how to print your SFC
program.
Appendix A. Common User Errors. Describes error conditions that are unique
to sequential function chart logic blocks and the ladder diagram
logic within them.
Appendix B. PLC Limits. Contains a listing of SFC performance parameters
for target PLCs.
Appendix C. Glossary. Provides definitions of terms pertaining to SFC
programming.

GFK-1385 iii
Preface

Related Publications
GFK-1295 Using CIMPLICITY® Control
GFK-1296 Series 90™ Systems Reference Manual
GFK-1192 Series 90™-70 System Manual
GFK-0262 Series 90™-70 Programmable Controller Installation Manual
GFK-0646 C Programmer’s Toolkit for the Series 90 PLCs User’s Manual
GFK-0600 Series 90™-70 Programmable Controller Data Sheets
GFK-0356 Series 90™-30 Programmable Controller Installation Manual
At GE Fanuc Automation, we strive to produce quality technical documentation.
After you have used this manual, please take a few moments to complete and return
the Reader's Comment Card located on the next page.
Libby Allen
Senior Technical Writer

iv CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction................................................................................... 1-1

SFC Defined ....................................................................................................... 1-2
What You Will Need........................................................................................... 1-2
Installing the Software ........................................................................................ 1-2
Using Online Documentation .............................................................................. 1-2

Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming ............................................... 2-1

RLD and SFC ..................................................................................................... 2-1
Steps ................................................................................................................... 2-3
Step Action Logic ....................................................................................... 2-3
Transitions.......................................................................................................... 2-4
Example SFC Control Sequence.......................................................................... 2-5
Series 90 PLC Scan Cycle ................................................................................... 2-6
SFC Evolution .................................................................................................... 2-8
Step Status Values ...................................................................................... 2-8
SFC Evolution Example.............................................................................. 2-9
Basic Control Structures.................................................................................... 2-11
Simple Sequence....................................................................................... 2-11
Divergence of a Selective Sequence........................................................... 2-12
Convergence of a Selective Sequence ........................................................ 2-13
Divergence of a Simultaneous Sequence.................................................... 2-14
Convergence of a Simultaneous Sequence ................................................. 2-15
Sequence Skip........................................................................................... 2-16
Sequence Loop.......................................................................................... 2-17
Jump......................................................................................................... 2-18
Cycle ........................................................................................................ 2-19
Rules for Control Structures .............................................................................. 2-20
IEC Compliance ....................................................................................... 2-23
SFC Reset Function........................................................................................... 2-25

Chapter 3 Working in the SFC Editor........................................................... 3-1

Getting Started.................................................................................................... 3-2
Creating a Main SFC Block ........................................................................ 3-2
Creating a New SFC Block ......................................................................... 3-3
Editing an Existing SFC Block ................................................................... 3-3
Importing a Logicmaster 90 SFC Program .................................................. 3-3
SFC Editor Windows .......................................................................................... 3-4

GFK-1385 v
Contents

Topology Window....................................................................................... 3-6

How Elements are Displayed ........................................................................ 3-6
SFC Element Names ............................................................................. 3-6
Step-Action Association ........................................................................ 3-7
Comments ............................................................................................. 3-7
Logic..................................................................................................... 3-7
Animation of SFC Topology.................................................................. 3-7
SFC Toolbar................................................................................................. 3-8
SFC Status Bar............................................................................................. 3-8
SFC Pop-up Menu........................................................................................ 3-9
Key Functions ............................................................................................ 3-10
Variable Declaration Editor Window ........................................................ 3-12
Terminal Language Window..................................................................... 3-12
Setting Edit and Display Features...................................................................... 3-13
Changing SFC Editor Options .................................................................. 3-13
General ...................................................................................................... 3-13
Action ........................................................................................................ 3-14
Transition .................................................................................................. 3-15
Using Lock Cursor.................................................................................... 3-16
Customizing the Topology Window Display ............................................. 3-16
Grid Display Options ................................................................................. 3-16
Zoom ......................................................................................................... 3-16
Display Mode............................................................................................. 3-17
Viewing SFC Limits ................................................................................. 3-18
Adding an SFC Network to the Block ....................................................... 3-18
Building an SFC Network ................................................................................. 3-19
Creating Steps and Transitions ................................................................. 3-19
Steps .......................................................................................................... 3-20
Transitions ................................................................................................. 3-21
Creating Actions....................................................................................... 3-21
Connecting SFC Elements ........................................................................ 3-23
Connection Band........................................................................................ 3-23
Disconnection Band ................................................................................... 3-23
Connector .................................................................................................. 3-24
Directed Link ............................................................................................. 3-24
Rules for Connecting Steps and Transitions .............................................. 3-25
Editing an SFC Network ................................................................................... 3-26
Navigating in the SFC Editor.................................................................... 3-26
Going to an SFC Network .......................................................................... 3-26
Searching for SFC Elements....................................................................... 3-26
Selecting Elements.................................................................................... 3-30

vi CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 Contents

Moving Elements...................................................................................... 3-30

Disconnecting SFC Elements.................................................................... 3-30
Cutting SFC Elements .............................................................................. 3-30
Copying SFC Elements ............................................................................. 3-31
Pasting SFC Elements............................................................................... 3-31
Paste .......................................................................................................... 3-31
Paste (with Logic) ...................................................................................... 3-32
Deleting SFC Elements............................................................................. 3-33
Undoing a Delete ...................................................................................... 3-33
Viewing and Editing SFC Element Properties........................................... 3-33
Editing Transition Logic........................................................................... 3-34
Editing Action Logic ................................................................................ 3-34
Editing the Action Pool............................................................................. 3-35
Editing Step-Action Associations.............................................................. 3-37
Working with Preprocessing and Postprocessing Logic ..................................... 3-39
Creating Preprocessing/Postprocessing Logic............................................ 3-39
Editing Preprocessing/Postprocessing Logic.............................................. 3-39
Clearing Preprocessing/Postprocessing Logic............................................ 3-40
Documenting Your SFC Project ........................................................................ 3-40
Comments ................................................................................................ 3-40
Description ............................................................................................... 3-41
Summary .................................................................................................. 3-41
Storing Your SFC Program to the PLC ............................................................. 3-41
Notes for Logicmaster 90 Users......................................................................... 3-42
IEC-Compliant Structures......................................................................... 3-42
Automatic Creation of Branches ............................................................... 3-42
Grid Organization..................................................................................... 3-42
Drag-and-Drop Editing............................................................................. 3-42
Selection of Multiple Elements ................................................................. 3-43
Directed Links .......................................................................................... 3-43
Step Timer Updates .................................................................................. 3-43
Compatibility............................................................................................ 3-43

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting............................................................................. 4-1

Analyzing SFC Networks.................................................................................... 4-2
Setting Time Parameters ..................................................................................... 4-2
Table..................................................................................................... 4-4
Monitoring Transition Conditions....................................................................... 4-6

GFK-1385 Contents vii

Contents

Forcing Transitions............................................................................................. 4-9

Toggle Transition ....................................................................................... 4-9
Override Transition .................................................................................... 4-9
Recording and Viewing Evolution History ........................................................ 4-10
Table................................................................................................... 4-11
Buttons................................................................................................ 4-11

Chapter 5 Printing SFC Documents .............................................................. 5-1

Topology Options .................................................................................. 5-2
Actions.................................................................................................. 5-3
Transitions ............................................................................................ 5-3

Appendix A Common User Errors ................................................................... A-1

General Errors ....................................................................................................A-2
Transition Logic Errors.......................................................................................A-2
Other Logic Errors..............................................................................................A-3
General SFC Element Errors...............................................................................A-3
SFC Top Level Errors .........................................................................................A-4

Appendix B PLC Limits ................................................................................... B-1

Appendix C Glossary ........................................................................................ C-1

viii CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 Contents

Figure 2-1. PLC Scan Cycle .......................................................................................................... 2-7

Figure 2-2. Convergence of Simultaneous Sequences................................................................... 2-21
Figure 2-3. Nesting of Dissimilar Sequences ............................................................................... 2-22
Figure 2-4. Non-IEC-Compliant Convergence............................................................................. 2-23
Figure 2-5. Non-IEC-Compliant Divergence ............................................................................... 2-24
Figure 3-1. SFC Editor Windows................................................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-2. Directed Link Example ............................................................................................. 3-25

GFK-1385 Contents ix
Contents

Table 2-1. Sequence of Events for the SFC Evolution Example ................................................... 2-10
Table 3-1. SFC Pop-up Menu Choices ........................................................................................... 3-9
Table 3-2. Keyboard Shortcuts..................................................................................................... 3-10
Table B-1. Target PLC Constraints for Series 90-70 PLCs.............................................................B-2
Table B-2. Target PLC Constraints for Series 90-30 PLCs.............................................................B-3

x CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
Chapter Introduction
1

This manual explains how to use Sequential Function Chart (SFC) language with
CIMPLICITY Control software to program your logic and create an application
program for your programmable controller.
This manual does not describe the features and functions of CIMPLICITY Control
software that are shared with the SFC Editor. For information on these features and
functions, please refer to Using CIMPLICITY® Control, GFK-1295. The Series
90™ Systems Reference Manual, GFK-1296, provides more detailed information
about PLC systems. For information on programming instructions and timing
information pertaining to the 90-70 software, refer to the Series 90™-70 System
Manual, GFK-1192.
The CIMPLICITY Control SFC Editor, release 2.0 supports the following PLCs.
Series 90-30 PLCs Series 90-70 PLCs
CPU 361 CPU 731
CPU 360 CPU 771
CPU 352 CPU 772
CPU 351 CPU 781
CPU 782
CPM 914, 915
CPM 924, 925

GFK-1385 1-1
 1

SFC Defined
SFC is a graphical, state language that is IEC-compliant. It was specifically
developed for controlling sequential processes and offers a graphical representation
of the functions of a sequential automated system as a series of steps and transitions.

For a better understanding of what SFC does and the relationship between SFC and
ladder diagram (LD) programming, refer to Chapter 2.

What You Will Need

Chapter 1 of Using CIMPLICITY Control, GFK-1295, describes the requirements
for installing and running CIMPLICITY Control software. You should also refer to
the Important Product Information document shipped with your release for any last-
minute changes or special operation notes about the installation procedure.

Installing the Software

Before you can begin using the features and functions described in this manual, you
must first install the software. If you have not yet installed the CIMPLICITY
Control software, follow the installation procedure described in Chapter 1 of Using
CIMPLICITY Control, GFK-1295.

Any options you have purchased, such as the SFC Language Editor, are
automatically installed when you install CIMPLICITY Control. For information on
available options, contact your GE Fanuc distributor.

Using Online Documentation

CIMPLICITY Control software includes detailed Help screens that are loaded onto
the hard disk of your programmer during the software installation procedure and
are readily accessible. To see a Help screen specific to the active window or dialog
box, press F1.

1-2 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
Chapter Understanding SFC Programming
2

RLD and SFC

The traditional Relay Ladder Diagram (RLD) logic (also called Ladder Logic) has
been widely used for designing and representing logic control systems since the
relay was invented. For combinational logic control systems, where outputs or
actions are directly dependent on the states of inputs or conditions, RLD is
excellent. However, for control problems where actions are sequential or time
dependent, RLD logic alone can become cumbersome. Consider the simplified
example of a semi-automatic punch.
a45348
HIG H (A) HIG H (A) H IG H (A)

LO W (B) LO W (B) R LO W (B)

L

In this example, a semi-automatic punch is initially in the raised position (A).

When the operator presses the Start pushbutton, the punch descends, pierces the
metal plate at position (B), and completes the cycle by returning to the raised
position.
In the ladder diagram approach, you have to take more into account than the fact
that pressing the Start pushbutton initiates the movement of the punch. You must
also consider that the operator will release the pushbutton and that he could press
the pushbutton before or after the punch is in the rest position. This additional
information has no bearing on the movement of the punch and complicates the
description of the function.

GFK-1385 2-1
 2

Lower Punch
M A B L

Raise Punch
B A R

What is needed is a method of representing sequential control problems in a

sequential manner, showing the various actions to be taken in a step and indicating
the conditions that must be fulfilled before advancing to the next step. To observe
some of the differences between SFC and RLD, compare the diagram above to the
one on page 2-4.
SFC is a language specifically developed for programming industrial sequential
control systems. The SFC Editor represents the functions of a sequential automated
system as a series of steps and transitions. Each step represents commands or
actions that are either active or inactive. The flow of control passes from one step to
the next through a conditional transition that is either true (1) or false (0). If the
transition logic evaluates true (1), control passes from the current step (which
becomes inactive) to the next step, which then becomes active.
Each control function can be represented by a group of steps and transitions, called
a Sequential Function Chart (SFC).

2-2 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

Steps
Two types of steps can be used in an SFC: initial steps and regular steps. The initial
step is executed either the first time the SFC block is executed or as a result of the
SFC_RESET function, described on page 2-25. There can be only one initial step
per SFC network. The initial step cannot appear within a simultaneous structure,
but can appear anywhere else.
A regular step is executed if the preceding transitional logic in the SFC network
makes the step active. There can be one or many regular steps in an SFC network.
Their display in the SFC topology looks as follows:

Initial Step Step

Step Action Logic

Action logic, the logic associated with a step, is executed when the step is active. An
action consists of zero or more rungs programmed in a terminal language, such as
Ladder Diagram. A step can have more than one action associated with it
(depending on the limitations of the target PLC) and an action can be associated
with more than one step.

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-3

 2

Transitions
Transition logic is programmed in a terminal language, such as Ladder Diagram. A
transition can contain only one executable rung plus comment rungs and is
displayed in the topology as shown below.

Step 1

T ran s 1 7UDQVLWLRQ 

Step 2

T ran s 2 7UDQVLWLRQ 

Step 3

By default, the SFC editor automatically creates a logic rung for each transition
when it is created (unless you have turned this option off in the SFC Editor Options
dialog box). Note that the ALW_OFF (always off) contact is used in the default
rung for safety reasons. You must edit this rung to meet the needs of your
application. The following rung sets the variable TRANS1 for transition Trans1.

Note
As defined by IEC, a transition cannot have any effect other than
setting the transition itself.

ALW _OFF TRANS 1

2-4 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

Example SFC Control Sequence

A semi-automatic punch starts in the raised position. When the operator presses the
Start pushbutton, the punch descends, performs the punching operation, and
completes the cycle by returning to the raised position. The SFC sequence for this
example is shown in the following illustration.
cycle

W A IT

T1

DE SC END

T2

R A IS E

T3

cyc le

In the SFC sequence shown in the illustration, the initial step (WAIT) contains
action logic that is performed the first time the SFC network is executed and each
time the transition T3 goes active causing the topology to cycle. (The initial step
will also become active if the SFC is reset via the SFC_RESET function block.) A
regular step is represented by a square which can also contain a name (such as
DESCEND or RAISE) identifying the principle function of that step. Action logic
associated with each step and transition (T1, T2, and T3) is programmed in the
Terminal Language window of the SFC Editor.

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-5

 2

Series 90 PLC Scan Cycle

The PLC scan continuously executes the MAIN block and any called SFC block
when the PLC is in RUN mode. Each SFC block includes preprocessing (optional),
sequential processing, and postprocessing (optional) logic. The scan cycle is
illustrated in Figure 2-1.
Preprocessing logic, which is optional, must be programmed in a terminal
language, such as Ladder Diagram. If preprocessing logic is used in a main block, it
is processed at the start of every scan. If it is used in a sub-block, it is processed at
the beginning of each executed call to the block. The amount of logic that can be
programmed is limited only by the size of the program block.
Preprocessing logic can be used to process events that affect the sequential
processing section of the program. These events could include:
• Initialization
• Operator commands
• Resetting the SFC to the initial state
Sequential processing consists of evolving the SFC to its next state and processing
the action logic of any steps that become active. Only the logic associated with
active steps and transitions is scanned by the PLC, leading to a significant reduction
of scan time. For more information, see “SFC Evolution.”
Postprocessing logic, which is optional, must be programmed in a terminal
language, such as Ladder Diagram. It is executed each time the program block is
called, after the evolution of the sequential function charts. That is, after all action
logic is executed, but before the program block is exited. The amount of logic that
can be programmed is limited only by the size of the program block.
Postprocessing logic could be used to process safety interlocks, for example.

2-6 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

In puts

P rep ro ce ss in g
M A IN SFC
Pro g ra m Blo c k S eq uen tial P roc es s ing
B lo c k 1
Pos tp ro ce ssing

P rep ro ce ss in g
SFC
Blo c k S eq uen tial P roc es s ing
2
Pos tp ro ce ssing
O u tpu ts
P rep ro ce ss in g
SFC
Blo c k S eq uen tial P roc es s ing
3
Pos tp ro ce ssing
Figure 2-1. PLC Scan Cycle

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-7

 2

SFC Evolution
A step can be either active or inactive. A transition is active (evaluated) only when
the step immediately preceding it is active. If a transition evaluates true (ON), the
software makes the immediately preceding step(s) inactive and the immediately
succeeding step(s) active. This process is referred to as evolving the SFC. The
sequence of operations for any given sequential processing portion of the PLC scan
consists of:
1. Evaluating the transitions following all active steps.
2. Evolving the SFC as needed.
3. Executing the action logic associated with the active steps.
The process of evolving the sequential function chart is animated in the Topology
window. Active steps and transitions are displayed with backlighting when the PLC
is online.
For a discussion of the logic execution flow and SFC evolution of a sample SFC
segment, see page 2-9.

Step Status Values

The SFC Editor maintains three local-scope, read-only status values for each step:
stepname.x (step action bit) Set when all action logic within the step has been
executed. SFC_RESET function sets this bit to OFF (0). Data type is BOOL.
stepname.t (step timer word) Displays the number of units of time that the
step has been active, relative to the time base. SFC_RESET function initializes this
word with 0. Data type is WORD.
stepname.f (step fault bit) Set when the step does not attain minimum time or
when it exceeds maximum time. SFC_RESET function sets to OFF (0). When the
programmer is online and the program is running, a step that has a time fault is
identified by red backlighting. Data type is BOOL.
To set the time base for the current SFC block and time limits for individual steps,
refer to “Setting Time Parameters.”

2-8 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

SFC Evolution Example

The logic execution flow is described below for a sample SFC segment to illustrate
how transitions and states become active in SFC evolution. Table 2-1 summarizes
the sequence of events.
• When an SFC block is initially executed, the SFC is in the reset state. Then the
initial step (S1) becomes active, and transition T1 is evaluated. The action logic
associated with step S1 is then executed.
• On the second scan, the transition logic associated with active transition T1 is
evaluated and found to be true. Step S1 becomes inactive, Step S2 becomes
active, and transition T2 is evaluated. The action logic associated with step S2
is then executed.
• On the third scan, the transition logic associated with active transition T2 is
evaluated and found to be false. Since the transition condition is not satisfied,
step S2 remains active and the action logic associated with step S2 is executed
again.
• On the fourth scan, the transition logic associated with active transition T2 is
again evaluated and found to be true. This time, transition T2 becomes inactive,
step S2 becomes inactive. Step S3 becomes active, and transition T3 is
evaluated. The action logic associated with step S3 is then executed.

S1

T1

S2

T2

S3

T3

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-9

 2

Table 2-1. Sequence of Events for the SFC Evolution Example

Scan Step S1 Transition T1 Step S2 Transition T2 Step S3 Transition T3
1 Active Evaluated Inactive Inactive Inactive Inactive
2 Inactive Evaluated, true Active Evaluated Inactive Inactive
3 Inactive Inactive Active Evaluated, Inactive Inactive
false
4 Inactive Inactive Inactive Evaluated, true Active Evaluated

2-10 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

Basic Control Structures

In the SFC topology, normal logic flow goes with gravity, that is top-to-bottom and
left-to-right. The following examples illustrate the basic control structures that can
be used in an SFC.

Simple Sequence
In this example, control passes from step S2 to step S3 only if step S2 is active and
transition T2 evaluates true.

S tep 2

T ran s2

S tep 3

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-11

 2

Divergence of a Selective Sequence

In this structure, there is a choice of two or more paths down which control can be
passed, but only one will be selected. In the structure shown in the following
illustration, control passes to step S3 only if step S2 is active and transition T2
evaluates true. Control passes to step S4 only if step S2 is active, transition T2 is not
true, and transition T3 is true (left-to-right priority of transition). Exactly one
branch of the selective sequence is selected. A left-to-right priority is used to
determine the active branch if more than one transition evaluates true at the same
time.
A selective divergence must be preceded by one step. The first element after a
selective divergence must be a transition. The SFC Editor automatically creates a
selective branch if two or more transitions are connected to a preceding step.

S2

T2 T3

S3 S4

2-12 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

Convergence of a Selective Sequence

A selective convergent branch can only be preceded by transitions. It must be
followed by one step. In the structure shown below, control passes from step S3 to
step S5 only if step S3 is active and transition T2 evaluates true. Control passes
from step S4 to step S5 only if step S4 is active and transition T3 is true.
The SFC Editor automatically creates a selective branch if one step is connected to
two or more preceding transitions.

S3 S4

T2 T3

S5

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-13

 2

Divergence of a Simultaneous Sequence

Divergence of a simultaneous sequence provides two or more paths down which
control will be passed. In a simultaneous divergent branch, more than one step will
become active.
In the structure illustrated, control passes from step S2 to step S3 and step S4 only if
step S2 is active and transition T2 evaluates true. Both steps will become active,
although the action logic contained in one step will be executed before the action
logic in the other step. The order in which steps are executed is undefined.
A simultaneous divergent branch must be preceded by one transition and followed
by at least two steps. The SFC editor displays a double line to indicate a
simultaneous sequence. And, it automatically creates a simultaneous branch if two
or more steps are connected to a single preceding transition.

S2

T2

S3 S4

2-14 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

Convergence of a Simultaneous Sequence

A simultaneous convergent branch can only be preceded by step elements. It must
be followed by one transition. An example of this structure is shown in the
following illustration.

S3 S4

T2

S5

In the structure illustrated, control passes to step S5 only if steps S3 and S4 are both
active and transition T2 evaluates true. The transition logic for T2 is only executed
when all of the steps at the end of the simultaneous sequence are active. The SFC
editor displays a double line to indicate a simultaneous sequence. It automatically
creates a simultaneous branch if one transition is connected to two or more
preceding steps.

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-15

 2

Sequence Skip
A sequence skip structure contains a selective branch that allows a series of steps
and transitions to be skipped.
In the sequence shown below, control passes to step S2 only if T1 is true. If T1 is
false and T2 is true, the sequence S2 through T4 is skipped and control goes
immediately to S4.

S1

T1 T2

S2

T3

S3

T4

S4

2-16 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 2

Sequence Loop
A sequence loop structure uses the directed link to define a logic sequence that goes
against gravity. (Normal logic flow goes from the top to the bottom of the SFC
topology, or with gravity.)
In the following figure, a directed link is used to create an iterative loop in the
topology. Control passes to Step 2 only if Step 1 is active and Trans1 evaluates true.
If Step 2 is active and Trans2 evaluates true, control returns to S1.

ST EP1

TRANS1

ST EP2

TRANS2

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-17

 2

Jump
A jump structure uses connector elements to allow a sequence to be skipped. In the
sequence shown below, control passes to step S2 only if T1 is active. If T1 is false
and T2 is true, control goes to step S3 by way of connector C1.
A source connector must occur immediately after a transition, as shown in the
example below, where it follows T2. The destination connector must occur
immediately before a step.

S1

T1 T2

C1

S2

T3

C1

S3

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Cycle
A cycle structure uses connector elements to conditionally return control to the
beginning of a sequence. In the sequence shown below, control passes to step S3
only if T2 is true. Control returns from step S2 to step S1 by way of connector, C1,
only if T2 is false and T3 is true.
A source connector must occur immediately after a transition. The destination
connector must occur immediately before a step.

C1

S1

T1

S2

T2 T3

C1

S3

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-19

 2

Rules for Control Structures

An SFC should comply with the following rules:
• Only one initial step can occur in the SFC network. The initial step cannot
occur within a simultaneous structure.
• Any two steps in sequence must be separated by a transition.
• Any two transitions in sequence must be separated by a step.
• Each transition must contain only one rung of logic which, at a minimum, sets
its transition variable. For example, transition TRANS1 must contain a rung
that sets the transition variable TRANS1.
• Terminal steps are not allowed in branches that converge within a simultaneous
sequence . (A terminal step is one that is not followed by a transition.)
• A jump cannot transfer control into or out of any branch of a simultaneous
sequence.
• Two divergent points of the same type of sequence (simultaneous or selective)
can have a common convergent point. Similarly, one divergent point can have
multiple convergent points. An example is shown in Figure 2-2.
• The divergence and convergence of sequences must be properly nested. For
example, if a simultaneous sequence diverges after a selective sequence
diverges, it must converge before the selective sequence converges. An example
is shown in Figure 2-3.
• Structures must be IEC-compliant (See page 2-23).

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 2

S2

T3

S3 S4

T4

S5 S6

T5

S7

Figure 2-2. Convergence of Simultaneous Sequences

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-21

 2

S2

T2 T3

S3

T4

S5 S6

T5

Figure 2-3. Nesting of Dissimilar Sequences

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 2

IEC Compliance
The following structures are not IEC-compliant, and cannot be created in the SFC
Editor or imported. To import a Logicmaster 90 folder that contains either of these
structures, first edit the structure as shown in the illustrations.
• A selective branch immediately following a simultaneous convergence
(Figure 2-4).
• A simultaneous divergence immediately following a selective branch
(Figure 2-5).

N o n - c o m p li a n t C o m p li a n t

Figure 2-4. Non-IEC-Compliant Convergence

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-23

 2

N o n - c o m p li a n t
C o m p li a n t

Figure 2-5. Non-IEC-Compliant Divergence

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 2

SFC Reset Function

Because SFC blocks are retentive, you must use the SFC_RESET function provided
in ladder diagram logic to force an SFC block to start from the initial step on
power-up or after a STOP-to-RUN transition. SFC_RESET can be inserted in the
action, preprocessing, or postprocessing logic. (The terminal language selected for
the logic must be LD.) When the SFC_RESET function is executed, the step status
values, step.x, step.t, and step.f, are cleared. You can also use the SFC_RESET
function to clear override conditions on transitions (see “Forcing Transitions” in
Chapter 4).
In the network evolution that immediately follows execution of SFC_RESET, all
currently active steps are deactivated. This causes all the action logic associated
with the active steps to be executed without power flow. Then, the initial step in the
network is activated, and the activated logic is executed.
To insert an SFC_RESET instruction, go to the Terminal Language window for the
selected logic. Select SFC_RESET from the ladder diagram instruction list box or
toolbar, then click in the Terminal Language window to place the instruction.
Format of the SFC_RESET Function
The enable (EN) and override (OVR) inputs are used to control execution of the
SFC block. The EN input is required; use of OVR is required for Series 90-30 PLCs
and optional for Series 90-70 PLCs. When EN is active, the SFC_RESET function
causes the SFC block to begin at its initial step and the step status values are
cleared. When OVR is active, override bits for transitions are cleared.

(e na b le ) SFC_ (ok)
RESET

(re s e t) OVR

GFK-1385 Chapter 2 Understanding SFC Programming 2-25

Chapter Working in the SFC Editor
3

The SFC Editor graphically represents the functions of a sequential automated

system as a series of steps and transitions. Using the SFC Editor, you can create,
modify, debug, and monitor SFC networks within the CIMPLICITY Control
Equipment Workbench. An SFC block contains one SFC logic network and two
optional entities, preprocessing logic and postprocessing logic. An SFC block can
contain more than one SFC network.
This chapter describes how to use the SFC Editor to create an SFC network.
• Getting Started.......................................................................................3-2
• SFC Editor Windows..............................................................................3-5
• Setting Edit and Display Features......................................................... 3-14
• Building an SFC Network ....................................................................3-20
• Editing an SFC Network ......................................................................3-27
• Working with Preprocessing and Postprocessing Logic ........................3-40
• Documenting Your SFC Project ...........................................................3-41
• Notes for Logicmaster 90 Users............................................................3-43

GFK-1385 3-1
 3

Getting Started
To access the SFC Editor, you must specify SFC as the language for the program
block (or blocks) that you create and edit within the CIMPLICITY Control
Equipment Folder. An SFC network can be created in the CIMPLICITY Control
_MAIN block and in sub-blocks that are created within the CIMPLICITY Control
Equipment Folder. Only one language can be specified for each block; however,
blocks within an Equipment Folder can have different languages.

Note
Reserved words cannot be used as file names, labels, or variable
names. The following words are reserved in CIMPLICITY
Control software because of their use in the SFC Editor: stepxxx,
transxxx, actnxxx, and connxxx where xxx is a number.

For a complete list of reserved words in CIMPLICITY Control

software, refer to Using CIMPLICITY® Control, GFK-1295.

Creating a Main SFC Block

To specify SFC as the language for the Main program block:
1. In the Equipment Folder Browser window, expand the tree menu to display the
contents of the Software Configuration.
2. With the left mouse button, double-click the Program name. (Or, click the right
mouse button and choose Edit Main Block from the pop-up menu.) The New
Main Block dialog box will appear.

3. Choose SFC from the Language list.

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4. If you wish, you can type a description for the block in the Description field.
5. Click OK. The SFC Editor windows for the Main Block will appear.

Creating a New SFC Block

An SFC block can be created within a CIMPLICITY Control Equipment Folder as
follows:
1. In the Equipment Folder Browser window, expand the tree menu to display the
contents of the Software Configuration.
2. With the left mouse button, click the Program name.
3. Click the right mouse button and choose New Block from the pop-up menu.
4. In the New Block dialog box, choose SFC from the Language list. In the Type
list, BLK should be selected.
5. Type a name for the new block in the Name field.
6. If you wish, you can type a description for the block in the Description field.
7. Click OK. The SFC Editor windows for the new block will appear.

Editing an Existing SFC Block

To edit an existing SFC block:
1. Go to the CIMPLICITY Control Equipment Folder Browser window, and
expand the tree menu to the program block level.
2. Double click the block name. Or select the block name, click the right mouse
button, and select Edit from the pop-up menu. The SFC Editor windows for the
selected block will appear.

Importing a Logicmaster 90 SFC Program

SFC programs created with Logicmaster 90 can be viewed and edited in
CIMPLICITY Control. When you import a Logicmaster 90 folder, you should be
aware of the following:
• The positions of transitions may change. The new structure will be functionally
equivalent to the original Logicmaster 90 structure.
• Connectors will be replaced with directed links. The new structure will be
functionally equivalent to the original Logicmaster structure.
• Logicmaster 90 allows certain SFC structures that are not IEC-compliant. To
import a Logicmaster 90 folder containing these structures, you must first edit
the structures as shown in “IEC Compliance” in Chapter 2.

GFK-1385 Chapter 3 Working in the SFC Editor 3-3

 3

For more information, see “Notes for Logicmaster 90 SFC Users” on page 3-43.

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 3

SFC Editor Windows

The SFC Editor software uses three windows: Topology window, Variable
Declaration Editor window, and Terminal Language window. The window that is
open and selected determines which status bar, tools, and menu commands are
available. (To select a window, click the mouse anywhere in it.)
The Topology window is described in detail here because it is unique to the SFC
Editor. The Variable Declaration Editor and Terminal Language windows are
discussed as they relate to the SFC Editor. For more detailed information on these
two windows, refer to the Help for CIMPLICITY Control software and to Using
CIMPLICITY Control, GFK-1295.

GFK-1385 Chapter 3 Working in the SFC Editor 3-5

 3

T op olo gy W indo w
Instructio n M enu S F C lo g ic n e tw o rk s a r e c o n s tru c te d
L is ts S F C e le m e n t s w h e n th e in th is w in d o w u s in g s te p s , tra n s itio n s ,
To p o lo g y w in d o w is s e le c t e d . a n d c o n n e c tin g e le m e n ts .
L is ts la d d e r d ia g ra m lo g ic
in s tr u c tio n s w h e n th e T e rm in a l
L a n g u a g e w in d o w is s e le c tr e d .
Te rm inal L angua ge W in dow
A llo w s yo u to c re a te lo g ic fo r th e
s e le c te d a c tio n o r tra n s itio n , o r
p re p ro c e s s in g o r p o s tp ro c e s s in g
lo g ic .

SFC Toolbar
P r o v id e s q u ic k a c c e s s to S F C e le m e n ts .
T o u s e , c lic k th e e le m e n t y o u w a n t a n d
th e n c li c k w h e re y o u w a n t th e e le m e n t
to a p p e a r in the to p o lo g y . (B e c o m e s th e
L D E d ito r to o lb a r w h e n th e T e r m in a l L o g ic
w in d o w is s e le c te d .)

SF C Status B ar Va riab le De claration E ditor

V is ib le w h e n t h e T o p o lo g y W in d o w D is p la ys a n d a llo w s yo u to e d it p ro g ra m
is a c tive . v a r ia b le s . To vie w m o re o f th e V a r ia b le
D e c la ra tio n E d ito r, a d j u s t the s p litte r b a r
a t th e to p o f th e w in d o w .

Figure 3-1. SFC Editor Windows

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 3

Topology Window
This window displays the SFC logic network, which you construct using steps,
transitions, and connectors. The SFC topology is based on a grid. Each SFC
element occupies one square on the grid. The maximum grid size for a network is
255 rows x 255 columns. The Topology window is displayed with the grid on, by
default. To toggle the grid display, select the View menu and choose Show Grid.

How Elements are Displayed

SFC Element Names

A system-generated name is automatically assigned to each element when it is
created. You can assign a user-defined name to an element when it is created or at a
later time, using the Properties dialog box.
The SFC Editor displays the user-defined names of the SFC elements by default. If
you do not provide a user-defined name, the system-generated name will be
displayed. You can choose to display system-generated names only, instead of user-
defined names (see “Display Mode”).

Note
If the number of characters in the user-defined name of an SFC
element name exceeds the maximum number of characters that
can be displayed, a truncated name followed by a “+” is used.
When you place the mouse cursor over the selected SFC element,
the full user-defined name will be displayed in a tool-tip Help.

Ind ica te s s te p h a s tw o
In d ic at e s ste p h a s a ac tio n s a s s o cia te d w ith it.
c o m m en t a s s o c ia te d (Clic k to e d it a ctio n s
w ith it. (C lick to o r a ctio n a ss o cia tio n s .)
e d it c o m m e n t.)

Cu rs o r In d e n ta tio n in d ic a te s
ele m e n t lo g ic is s e le c te d
in te rm in a l la n g u a g e w in d o w .

GFK-1385 Chapter 3 Working in the SFC Editor 3-7

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Step-Action Association
A number in the upper right corner of each step indicates the number of actions
associated with the step. (Action logic is programmed in the Terminal Language
window of the SFC Editor.) When you left click this number, a pop-up menu that
lists the associated actions appears. To edit the underlying logic, click the action
name in the pop-up menu. To create a new step-action association, select New
Association from the pop-up menu.

Comments
Comments can be associated with any step, transition, or action defined in the SFC
topology. The SFC Editor displays the symbol * in the upper left corner of each
element that has a comment associated with it. The display of symbols can be
toggled on or off.
To add a comment to a selected step or transition, click the right mouse button, and
choose Comment from the pop-up menu, or choose Comment from the Edit menu.
To add a comment to an action, go to the Action Pool dialog box (see “Editing the
Action Pool”).

Logic
The logic associated with an element will be displayed automatically when the
element is selected if Automatic View Logic is selected in the SFC Editor Options
dialog box. To enable this feature, see “Changing SFC Editor Options.” You can
also display the logic associated with an element by double-clicking the element, or
in the case of steps, right clicking the action number of the step and selecting an
action from the pop-up list.

Animation of SFC Topology

Active steps and transitions are backlighted in the Topology window when the
CIMPLICITY Control software is online with the PLC.
• A flashing red backlight on a step indicates that the step has an SFC time fault.
(See “Setting Time Parameters” in Chapter 4.)
• A highlighted bar on a transition indicates that it is overridden.

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SFC Toolbar
The toolbar contains icons that represent SFC language elements (initial step, step,
transition, and connector) and editor tools (pointer, connection, and disconnection).
The elements can also be selected from the drop-down list on the common Editor
toolbar or the Elements dialog box. This toolbar is available only when the
Topology window is selected.

Pointer tool Initial step elem ent

Step elem ent Connector elem ent
Transition elem ent Connection tool
Disconnection tool

SFC Status Bar

To toggle the status bar on or off, select the View menu and choose Status Bar.
When the Topology window is active, the SFC status bar displays the following
information:
• Context path
• Row and column location of the cursor
• Current network where the cursor is located
• Status of the connection to the target PLC
Not Connected
Connected
Connected and Equal
• Program or block scope name (always BLK for SFC programs)
• Equality Status
Not Saved — the program has not been saved
Not Built — the program has been saved but not yet built to a binary file
Equal — programmer is online and the program in the current folder is equal
to the program in the PLC
Not Equal — programmer is online and the program in the current folder is not
equal to the program in the PLC
Blank — programmer is online and not connected, or offline with a saved and
built SFC topology

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SFC Pop-up Menu

You can open the SFC pop-up menu by clicking the right mouse button anywhere in
the Topology window. Menu items that do not apply to the selected element or
network are grayed out. The pop-up menu contains the following items.

Table 3-1. SFC Pop-up Menu Choices

Edit Displays the underlying logic of the selected step or transition. When you
start the Edit operation on a step, logic for the step’s default action is
displayed.
Properties Allows you to view and edit the properties of a step, transition, or
connector. The Properties dialog box contains Language (applies to
transitions and actions only), User-defined Name (optional), and
Description (optional).
Comment Opens the Comments dialog box associated with the currently selected step
or transition. You can add a comment or view and edit an existing
comment.
Associate Opens the Step-Action Association dialog box, which allows you to
associate actions to the selected step.
Monitor Opens the Transition Monitor dialog box for the selected transition.
Connect Element Activates a rubberband line that allows you to connect the selected element
to other elements.
Disconnect Element Activates a rubberband line that allows you to disconnect the selected
element from other elements.
Delete Deletes the selected SFC element. When a step is deleted, the associated
actions are not deleted from the action pool unless Delete Unused Actions
is selected in the SFC Editor Options dialog box.

Cut Cuts the selected element(s).

Copy Copies the selected element(s).
Paste Pastes the most recently cut or copied element(s).
Paste (with Logic) Pastes the most recently cut or copied element(s) including the underlying
logic.
Insert Network Inserts a new SFC network above the selected network in the current SFC
Above block. (Available only for target PLCs that support multiple networks.)
Insert Network Inserts a new SFC network below the selected network in the current SFC
Below block. (Available only for target PLCs that support multiple networks.)
Analyze Checks the validity of the network topology. Topology errors are displayed
in the Output Log window.
Toggle Toggles the state of the selected transition when online.
Override Overrides the state of the selected transition when online.
Store Program When connected and online, stores only the logic program changes to the
Changes PLC. Allows you to store program changes when the PLC is running.

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Key Functions
Keyboard shortcuts are available for many functions in the Topology window. These
functions and the corresponding keystrokes are grouped in the following table by
type.

Table 3-2. Keyboard Shortcuts

Moving Around in the Topology Window
↑ Moves cursor up one row.
↓ Moves cursor down one row.
← Moves cursor left one column.
→ Moves cursor right one column.
HOME Moves cursor to the beginning of the current row.
END Moves cursor to the end of the current row.
CTRL + ↑ Moves cursor up one network.
CTRL + ↓ Moves cursor down one network.
PAGE DOWN Moves cursor down one window.
PAGE UP Moves cursor up one window.
CTRL + PAGE UP Moves cursor to the top of the window.
CTRL + PAGE Moves cursor to the bottom of the window.
DOWN
CTRL + HOME Moves cursor to the first row of the first SFC network.
CTRL + END Moves cursor to the last row of the last SFC network.
Editing the SFC Topology
F2 Selects the Elements list box. (Use the up and down arrows to scroll the
list, then click or press ENTER to drop the element in the SFC topology.)
CTRL + Z Undoes the most recent delete operation.
CTRL + X Cuts the selected element.
CTRL + C Copies the selected element.
CTRL + V Pastes the selected element.
CTRL + SPACE Connects (or disconnects) the selected element. (First, turn on connection
rubberbanding by pressing Alt + E and selecting Connect Element (or
Disconnect Element) from the Edit menu. Then move the cursor to the
element to be connected to, and press CTRL + SPACE.
DEL Deletes the selected element.
ESC Ends the current activity. If rubberbanding is active, turns it off.
ENTER Edits the selected step or transition. Displays the corresponding underlying
logic in the Terminal Language window.
ALT + ENTER Opens the Properties dialog box for the selected element.

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Editing Variables
CTRL + W Switches control between the SFC Topology and Variable Declaration
Editor windows.
Editing Logic
F6 Switches between the SFC Topology and Terminal Language windows.
The logic for the selected Step or Transition will be displayed in the
Terminal Language window.
F5 Switches between the SFC Topology and Terminal Language windows.
Preprocessing logic will be displayed in the Terminal Language window.
SHIFT + F5 Switches between the SFC Topology and Terminal Language windows.
Postprocessing logic will be displayed in the Terminal Language window.
Using File Functions
CTRL + N Creates a new folder. (Only one folder can be active at a time.)
CTRL + O Opens a folder. (Only one folder can be active at a time.)
CTRL + S Saves current program block.
CTRL + P Prints current program block.
CTRL + F4 Closes current program block.
Using Transfer Utilities
ALT + S Stores your logic program to the PLC. Allows you to store program changes
with the PLC running.
Using Online Functions
F11 Overrides the state of the selected transition when online.
F12 Switches the state of the selected transition when online.
Getting Help
F1 Accesses Online Help for the active window or dialog box.

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Variable Declaration Editor Window

The Variable Declaration Editor window is located at the bottom of the SFC Editor
window. If you cannot see this window, use the mouse to move the split bar so that
the pane is wider.
The Variable Declaration Editor window displays the SFC variables that are defined
in the logic used by the SFC network. When this window is selected, the Variable
Declaration Editor functions provided by CIMPLICITY Control software can be
used.
The Variable Declaration Editor window displays user-defined variable names
assigned to SFC elements by default. If no user-defined name is assigned to an
element, the system-generated name is displayed. System-generated names also
appear in the Variable Browser dialog box so that they can be used within SFC
element logic for actions and transitions.

Note
Transition and step variables are local scope, read-only variables
that are handled as system variables by the Variable Declaration
Editor. For convenient viewing of SFC variables, go to the Local
Scope tab with the Sys Vars box checked.

Terminal Language Window

The Terminal Language window displays the underlying logic of an action, a
transition condition, or the preprocessing/postprocessing logic. The underlying
logic is programmed in a language that is supported by the target PLC. When the
logic is programmed in Ladder Diagram language, all the functionality of the
CIMPLICITY Control LD Editor can be used.

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Setting Edit and Display Features

Changing SFC Editor Options

You can set options that determine how the Editor operates when you are working
in the Topology window. General options determine the behavior of element type
selection and connection banding. The action and transition options determine the
default terminal language and whether you are prompted to change the terminal
language when these elements are created.
To change SFC Editor options, select the Tools menu and choose SFC Editor. The
SFC Editor Options dialog box will appear.

General
Connection Banding on Element Addition
If this box is checked, a connection band appears when the element is dropped into
the topology. (Default setting is checked.)
To immediately connect the new element to another element, left mouse click an
existing element, or select a new element from the toolbar and drop it into the
topology. To remove the connection line, press ESC.

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Delete Unused Actions

If this box is checked, actions that are associated to a step will be deleted when the
step is deleted. An action that is associated to any other step will not be deleted.
(Default setting is not checked.)
Automatic View Logic
If this box is checked, the editor automatically updates the Terminal Language view
as the cursor is moved from one SFC element to another. Also, the Terminal
Language window automatically displays the logic view for the new element when
it is created. (Default setting is not checked.)

Action
If the target PLC supports multiple languages, you will be able to change the
following settings. Otherwise, these settings cannot be changed.
Default Terminal Language
Allows you to select the default terminal language to be used during creation of
actions in the empty logic. The default setting is LD (Ladder Diagram).
Use Default Language
If this option is selected, the default terminal language will be used to create
actions. Either this option or Prompt for Language must be selected. Use Default
Language is the default selection.
Prompt for Language
Allows you to choose a terminal language other than that specified in the Default
Terminal Language field. If this option is selected, the New Action dialog box
appears when a step is created because a default action is created at the same time.

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 3

Transition
If the target PLC supports multiple languages, you will be able to change the
following settings. Otherwise, these settings cannot be changed.
Default Terminal Language
Allows you to select the default terminal language to be used during creation of
transitions in the empty logic. The default setting is LD (Ladder Diagram).
Use Default Language
If this option is selected, the default terminal language will be used to create
transitions. Either this option or Prompt for Language must be selected. Use Default
Language is the default selection.
Prompt for Language
Allows you to choose a terminal language other than that specified in the Default
Terminal Language field. If this option is selected, the New Transition dialog box
will be displayed each time you create a transition.

Automatic Logic Creation

If Automatic Logic Creation is selected, the editor automatically creates default
logic that sets the transition variable.

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Using Lock Cursor

When Lock Cursor is enabled, the SFC element type remains selected after you drop
it into the topology. This feature allows you to place the same element into the
topology repeatedly without having to select it each time. The default condition for
Lock Cursor is off.
To turn this feature on or off, select the Edit menu and choose Lock Cursor, or click
the Lock tool on the Workbench toolbar.

Customizing the Topology Window Display

Options for customizing the Topology window include adjusting the window and
grid size and selecting display modes. You can also customize the amount of
information that is displayed with elements.

Grid Display Options

You can hide and display grid lines and widen grid spaces in the SFC Topology
window.
Show Grid: The default view displays grid lines. To hide grid lines, select
the View menu and click Show Grid. (A check mark beside Show Grid sets
grid lines.)
Wide Grid: The Wide Grid view is useful when variable or reference
description names are long. To set wide grid view, select the View menu
and click Wide Grid. (A check mark beside Wide Grid sets this option.)

Zoom
The zoom command allows you to increase or decrease the display size in the
selected window (default is 100%). To change the zoom percentage, select the View
menu and choose Zoom. In the Zoom dialog box, click on one of the standard
percentages or click in the Percentage field and type a number between 25 and 200.
You can also adjust Zoom on the Common Editor toolbar.

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Display Mode
To change the display features, with the Topology window selected, go to the View
menu and choose Display Mode. The Display Mode submenu, which contains the
following entries, will appear.
Name — SFC elements can be displayed with user-defined names or system-
generated names. To switch between these two modes, choose Name from the
Display Mode submenu.
Description — The SFC elements can be displayed in the topology with their
descriptions. To switch the display of the descriptions on or off, select Description
from the Display Mode submenu.
Hide Comments — An asterisk is displayed next to an element that has a comment
associated with it. To switch this indicator on or off, choose Hide Comments from
the Display Mode submenu.

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Viewing SFC Limits

The SFC Editor supports different PLC types. Each target PLC type has a unique set
of constraints on the use of SFC elements: maximum number of SFC networks in a
block, maximum number of SFC elements in a network, support of specific terminal
languages, etc. The SFC Editor automatically handles these limitations for the
current target PLC.
To view SFC limits for the target PLC, select the Tools menu and choose SFC
Limits. The SFC Limits dialog box will appear.

Adding an SFC Network to the Block

The current SFC network is displayed in the Topology window. When a new SFC
block is created, it contains a default network with an initial step that has one action
associated. You can delete this default initial step and/or default network, but there
must be an initial step in each network.
To add a new SFC network, select the Program menu and choose Insert Network
Above or Insert Network Below. The new network is inserted immediately above or
below the active network. In a block that contains multiple networks, all networks
are evaluated and then the actions of the block are executed.
The Insert Network menu items will not be available if the current target PLC does
not support multiple networks.

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Building an SFC Network

Creating Steps and Transitions

Steps and transitions are connected in the SFC topology to create the logic structure
within an SFC network. You can use the SFC Toolbar or the Elements dialog box to
create these elements.

Pointer tool Initial step elem ent

Step elem ent Connector elem ent
Transition elem ent Connection tool
Disconnection tool

To create an element using the SFC Toolbar, left mouse click on the symbol you
want and then left mouse click to drop the element where you want it in the SFC
topology. (Pressing ENTER will also drop the instruction at the topology cursor
location.)
To access the Elements dialog box, select the Program menu and choose Elements.
Select the element name from the drop-down list and then left mouse click or press
ENTER to drop the element at the cursor location in the topology.

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What happens when the element is dropped into the topology depends on the SFC
Editor Options settings. For details, see “Changing SFC Editor Options” on page
3-14.

Note
If the Editor is in Overwrite mode, creating an element on top of a
selected element will replace that element. If the Editor is in
Insert mode, the new element will be created above the selected
element. To switch between Overwrite (OVR) and Insert (INS)
modes, press the INSERT key. (The editing mode is shown in the
Workbench status bar.)

Note
You can also create elements by copying and pasting existing
elements. To edit the user-defined name or description for the
copied element, choose Properties from the Program menu or
from the Topology window pop-up menu.

Steps

A default action containing empty logic written in the default terminal language is
assigned to an initial step when it is created and to a regular step the first time you
edit it. (If the Prompt for Language option is enabled in the SFC Editor Options
dialog box, you will be prompted for the terminal language.) The action number is
assigned by the SFC Editor in the order the actions are created. Actions can be
created independently of steps (see “Creating Actions”). To be executed, actions
must be associated to at least one step. Step numbers are assigned by the SFC Editor
in the order the steps are created.
To edit action logic, double click on the step (edits the default action), press ENTER
with the step selected, or click the action number on the upper right of the step to
choose an action from the pop-up menu.

Note
Only one initial step can be defined in an SFC network. The
initial step cannot appear in a simultaneous (converging or
diverging) structure. The Editor allows you to construct networks
that do not satisfy these conditions. However, these errors will be
disallowed and logged by the Analyze function.

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Transitions

Transition numbers are assigned by the SFC Editor in the order the transitions are
created. To edit logic (transition conditions) for a selected transition, choose Edit
from the pop-up menu, press ENTER, or simply double click the transition.

Creating Actions
To create an action independently of a step, select the Program menu and choose
Action Pool. When the Action Pool dialog box appears, click the New button. The
New Action dialog box will appear. This dialog box allows you to change the
default terminal language and provide a description for the new action.

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To edit the logic content of the action, click the Edit button in the Action Pool
dialog box. The action logic will be displayed in the Terminal Language window.
To be executed as part of the SFC, an action must be associated to a step (click
Associate in the Action Pool dialog box to open the Step-Action Association dialog
box). For details on editing step-action associations, see page 3-38.

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Connecting SFC Elements

Usually, steps and transitions are connected using the connection band, creating
links in which the logic flows with gravity. The connection band can also be used to
create directed links, which flow against gravity. If you want to build a structure
that includes conditional jumps or cycles, you must use a connector element.

Connection Band

To activate the connection band, select the element you

want to connect and choose the Connect tool from the
toolbar, or choose Connect Element from the pop-up
menu or the Edit menu. While the connection band is
active, as shown at right, you can connect the new
element to an existing element by left mouse clicking the existing element, or by
selecting the existing element and pressing Ctrl + Space. (To remove the connection
band from an element, press E SC or click the element.)
If Connection Banding On Element Addition is selected in the SFC Editor Options
dialog box, a connection band appears when you place a step, transition, or
connector in the SFC topology.

Disconnection Band

To activate the disconnection band, select one of the elements you want to
disconnect and choose the Disconnect tool from the toolbar. You can also select the
element and choose Disconnect Element from the Edit menu or the pop-up toolbar.

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Connector

This element is used to create a jump or cycle structure. You can use the SFC
Toolbar or the Elements dialog box to create a connector.
To create a connector, left mouse click the Connector icon on the SFC Toolbar, in
the Elements list box, or in the Elements dialog box. (To access the Elements dialog
box, select the Program menu and choose Elements.) Left mouse click or press
Enter to drop the element where you want it in the SFC topology.
When the connector is dropped into the topology, the Connector Properties dialog
box will appear. Typing information in this dialog box is optional. If you do not
provide a User-defined Name, the SFC Editor will assign a name in sequence (C1,
C2, etc.) The User-defined Name drop-down box allows you to select from existing
connector names.

Directed Link

You can use a directed link to build a structure in which the logic flows against
gravity. In a directed link, logic flows from a transition to a step. To create a
directed link, select either the transition or step and activate the connection band.
Then, position the cursor over the hot spot on the other element (the cursor will
change to a directed link symbol) and click. The hot spot for directed link
connection is at the bottom of a transition and at the top center of a step.

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Note
If the path is not clear for a directed link that is being created, the
SFC Editor will automatically place source and destination
connectors instead of the directed link.

ST EP 1

TR ANS 1

ST EP 2

TRANS2 TRANS3

ST EP 3 ST EP4

TR ANS 4

Figure 3-2. Directed Link Example

Rules for Connecting Steps and Transitions

• Connecting two steps automatically creates a transition between the steps and
links the elements.
• Connecting two transitions automatically places a new step between the
transitions and links the elements.
• A connector that is connected to a step is a destination connector. If it is
connected to a transition, it is a source connector.

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Editing an SFC Network

Navigating in the SFC Editor

To locate the part of your SFC program that you want to edit, you may need to use
the Go To or Search functions. Go To applies only to programs that contain more
than one SFC network.

Going to an SFC Network

To go to a specified SFC network, select the Edit menu and click Go To. The GoTo
dialog box will appear.
Select the network that you want to go to from the Network list and click OK.

Searching for SFC Elements

You can use the Search function in the SFC Editor to locate variables, reference
addresses, identifiers, SFC elements, and instructions within the current equipment
folder. You can also perform search and replace operations to change a variable
name, reference address, identifier, or User-defined SFC element name. (You can
also use the Properties dialog box, described on page 3-34, to change the User-
defined Name of an SFC element.) The result of the search is displayed in the Log
Output window and consists of a listing, by path, of each occurrence of the item.
To search for an item, go to the Edit menu and choose Search. The Search dialog
box will appear. Edit the fields in the dialog box to specify the search parameters
(field definitions are given below) and click Find All or press ENTER.

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Find
Type the name of the item (specified in the Search For field) that you want to locate
into this field. The default entry is the text from the last Search or Replace
operation. To select from a list of recently searched items, click the drop-down
arrow at the end of this field and select from the drop-down list. This field can
contain:
Variable name not case-sensitive
Reference address example: %T00001
Identifier case-sensitive
SFC Element case-sensitive
If Instruction is selected in the Search For field, this field is grayed out.
Instruction
To limit the search by instruction, select an instruction from the drop-down list. If
Instruction is selected in the Search For field, all occurrences of the instruction
specified in this field will be found.
Search For
You must select one of the following items to search for:
Variable (default) Searches for the variable name specified in the Find field
Reference Address Searches for the reference address specified in the Find
field
Identifier Searches for the Identifier specified in the Find field
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SFC Element Searches for the SFC element specified in the Find field
Instruction Searches for the Instruction specified in the Instruction
field
Replace
If you want to perform a search and replace, select or type the replacement text
here. This field is grayed out if SFC Element or Instruction is selected in the Search
For field.
Implicit
This check box is available only when Reference Address is selected in the Search
For field. It is grayed out for all other types of searches.
Output Only
Limits the search to outputs only. This check box is available only when Variable or
Reference Address is selected in the Search For field. It is grayed out for all other
types of searches.
Scope
Lists the components of the Equipment Folder to be searched. The default scope is
the component from which you opened the Search dialog box. Only one component
can be selected at a time.
Search Contained Nodes
This check box is grayed out for all types of searches in the SFC Editor because only
one component can be selected at a time.
Find All
To display the results of the search in the output log and close this dialog box, click
this button. At the end of the search, the Output Log window will display the total
number of items found.
Replace All
To replace every instance of the item listed in the Find field with the item listed in
the Replace field, click this button. The dialog box will close, and at the end of the
search, the Output Log window will display the total number of replacements made.
The result of the search is displayed in the Log Output window includes and the
path for each occurrence of the item. There will be one entry for the Variable
Declaration definition and one entry for each time the item is used in the SFC
network. (If you want to exclude the Variable Declaration Table and search only
outputs, select the Output Only checkbox in the Search Dialog box.)

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To replace a Variable name, type the text to be replaced in the Find field and type
the new text in the Replace field. Click the Replace All button. The following
message will appear. To continue the Replace operation, click OK or press ENTER.
(You can also use change a Variable name by selecting the Variable in the Terminal
Language window and opening the Properties dialog box.)

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Selecting Elements
To select a single element in the Topology window, left mouse click on the element.
The selected element will be indicated by dots on the corners of the grid square it is
on. If Automatic View Logic is selected in the SFC Editor Options dialog box, the
Terminal Language window will show the logic for the selected element.
If Automatic View Logic is not selected, double click the element to edit the
underlying logic. The cursor will move to the Terminal Language window and the
name of the element being edited will be displayed in the SFC window title bar.
(For steps with multiple actions, double clicking will open the logic of the first
action associated with the step.)
To select multiple elements, drag a box around a group of elements. Using this
feature, you can move, cut, copy, paste, and delete several elements at once.

Moving Elements
To use drag-and-drop editing, select an element (or a group of elements) and hold

the left mouse button down until the cursor changes to . While holding the
mouse button, drag the element to its new position.

Disconnecting SFC Elements

The link between a step (or initial step) and a transition can be removed by deleting
the selected step or transition or by disconnecting it.
To disconnect two elements, right click one of them, then select the Disconnect tool
from the SFC toolbar. You can also select Disconnect Element from the Edit menu
or the pop-up menu. When the connection band appears, right click the element
from which you want to disconnect.

Cutting SFC Elements

To cut a selected element, choose Cut from the Edit menu. You can also choose Cut
from the pop-up menu or press CTRL+X. Cutting a step removes the element and
places it on the clipboard. (If Delete Unused Actions is selected, Action(s)
associated only with the step being cut will also be removed. See “Changing SFC
Editor Options.”) If the element cut is a transition, its associated logic is removed.

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Copying SFC Elements

To copy a selected element, select the Edit menu and choose Copy. You can also
choose Copy from the pop-up menu or press CTRL+C. This operation copies the
element and its associated logic to the clipboard.
• The links attached to a single step or transition are not copied. If multiple
elements are selected, the associated links are copied.
• The Editor assigns a system-generated name to the new element when it is
pasted.

Pasting SFC Elements

You can paste an element that you have cut or copied using Paste or Paste (with
Logic). The two paste functions are the same for transitions and connectors. If you
use Paste with a step, the associated Action(s) and logic are pasted with the step.
However, when you use Paste (with Logic) with a step, you will be prompted to
choose whether a new action is created with the step or whether the existing action
will be associated with the new step.
• A single element or multiple elements can be pasted. If multiple elements are
pasted, the top left corner of the selection box will be pasted in the selected grid
cell.
• If the Editor is in Overwrite mode, pasting on a selected element will replace
that element. If the Editor is in Insert mode, the selected element and any
elements to the right of it will move to the right to make room for the pasted
element.
• If there is a name conflict, a new system-generated name will be assigned to the
element.
• When you paste a transition, the logic is automatically changed to set the
variable corresponding to the new transition.

Paste
To paste an element, first copy or cut the element, then place the cursor where you
want the element to be in the Topology window, select the Edit menu, and choose
Paste. You can also choose Paste from the pop-up menu or press CTRL+V. The
element and its associated action and logic will be inserted.

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Paste (with Logic)

To paste a step with logic, first copy or cut the step. Then, place the cursor where
you want the element to be in the Topology window, select the Edit menu, and
choose Paste (with Logic). You can also choose Paste (with Logic) from the pop-up
menu.
When you paste the step, the Confirm Action Replace dialog box will appear (unless
Delete Unused Actions is selected in the SFC Editor Options dialog box and you cut
the step). If you select Create New Action (default), a new action will be created and
associated with the pasted step. The new action will contain the same logic as the
corresponding action in the step. If you select Over Write, the pasted step will be
associated with the same action as the step from which it was created.

When you are pasting a step that is associated with multiple actions, you can select
Yes or Yes to All. To be prompted for each action, click Yes. To overwrite or create
new actions for all the actions associated with the step, click Yes to All.

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Deleting SFC Elements

To delete a selected element or multiple elements, select the Edit menu and choose
Delete. You can also choose Delete from the pop-up menu, or press the DELETE key.

• By default, deleting a step removes it from the topology but leaves its associated
actions and logic in the action pool. If Delete Unused Actions is selected in the
SFC Editor Options dialog box, actions that are associated only to the step
being deleted are also removed.
• If a transition is deleted, all associated logic is removed.

Undoing a Delete
To undo the most recent deletion of an element, select the Edit menu and choose
Undo. Delete is the only operation that you can undo, and only if it is the most
recent editing action.

Viewing and Editing SFC Element Properties

To view and edit the properties of a step, transition, connector, or action, first select
the element, then select the Program menu and choose Properties. (You can also
choose Properties from the pop-up menu.) The Properties dialog box for the selected
element will appear.

To access properties for an action, select the Program menu and choose Action
Pool. When the Action Pool dialog box appears, click the Properties button.

Note
If you add or change the User-defined Name for a step, transition,
or connector, all occurrences of that element within the block will
be renamed.

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Editing Transition Logic

To edit the logic of a transition, double-click on the transition name in the Topology
window (or, with the transition selected, press ENTER). The cursor will move to the
Terminal Language window and the logic associated with the selected transition
will be displayed. The transition name will be displayed on the title bar.

Note
When you are editing transition logic, the selected transition in
the Topology window appears pressed in.

Editing Action Logic

You can edit the logic of an action that is associated with a step by clicking the
action count number and choosing the action name from the pop-up menu.

You can also edit action logic by clicking the Edit button in the Step-Action
Association or Action Pool dialog box. The cursor will move to the Terminal
Language window and the logic for the selected action will appear. The step name
to which the action is attached and the action name are displayed in the title bar.
Double clicking on a step that is associated with multiple actions will select the
action that appears first in the Action Associated to Step list.

Note
When you are editing action logic, the associated step(s) appear
pressed down in the Topology window.

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Editing the Action Pool

The Action Pool List associated with an SFC contains a list of actions that are
available for you to use in the logic. You can view this list and modify it by adding
or deleting actions. You can also access the logic of a selected action from this list.
(When an SFC block is created, an Action Pool that contains one empty action
associated with the initial step is also created.)
To view or edit the Action Pool List, go to the Program menu and choose Action
Pool. The Action Pool dialog box will appear.

The Action Pool dialog box contains the following information:

Name
Indicates the system-generated name of the action.
Language
The language in which the action is programmed.
Use Count
Indicates the number of times the action is used within the SFC block.
Close
Saves the changes that you have made to the Action Pool list and closes the dialog
box.

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New
Displays the New Action dialog box. The number of actions that can be added to an
SFC network is limited by the maximum number of actions supported by the target
PLC.
Associate
Displays the Step-Action Association dialog box, which allows you to associate the
action to a step.
Properties
Displays the Properties dialog box for the selected action.
Comments
Allows you to edit or add a comment for the selected action.
Delete
Deletes the selected action if it is not being used in the block (not associated with a
step). A confirmation dialog will be displayed.
Delete Unused
Deletes actions that are not associated with a step. A confirmation dialog box will
be displayed.
Edit
Closes the Action Pool dialog box and places the cursor in the Terminal Language
window. Logic associated with the selected action will be displayed.
Description
You can type or edit a description for the selected action in this box.

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Editing Step-Action Associations

You can use the Step-Action Association dialog box to create new actions, associate
one or more actions to a step, and remove actions from a step.
You can open the Step-Action Association dialog box in the following ways:
• Select the Edit menu and choose Associate
• Right click on a step and choose Associate from the pop-up menu.
• Click the action count number next to a step and choose New Association from
the pop-up menu.
• Choose Associate from the Action Pool dialog box.

The Step-Action Association dialog box contains the following information:

Step
Indicates the selected SFC step. This list box can be scrolled to view all steps in the
currently selected network. If a step is selected when you open the Step-Action
Association dialog box, it appears in the Step box. (If no step is selected, the initial
step is displayed.) The drop-down list presents steps in alphabetical order. User-
assigned names are listed for steps that have them.
Network
Lists the networks in the SFC block. Use the drop-down list to select a network.
Action available
Lists the system-generated names of actions that are defined for the current SFC
block.

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Qualifier
The default action qualifier, N (non-stored — null), is specified for each step-action
association.
Actions Associated to Step
Name
Lists the actions associated to the current step.
Qualifier
Lists the qualifier specified for each action that is associated to the current step.
New
To create an action, click this button. The New Action dialog box will appear.
When you click the OK button in the New Action dialog box, the new action will be
added to the Action available list.
Add
To assign a new action to the current step, first select the action and a qualifier,
then click the Add button. Actions are added to the end of the list in the Actions
Associated to Step list. The number of step-action associations is limited by the
maximum number allowed by the PLC target.
Remove
To delete a step-action association, select it in the Actions Associated to Step list
and click Remove. Neither the action nor the step will be removed from the block.
Edit
To edit the logic of the selected action, click the Edit button. The logic will be
displayed in the Terminal Language window and the Step-Action dialog box will be
closed.
Move Up
To move the selected action up in the Actions Associated to Step list, click this
button.
Move Down
To move the selected action down in the Actions Associated to Step list, click this
button.

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Working with Preprocessing and Postprocessing Logic

Preprocessing and postprocessing logic provides a means for programming
operations that must be completed outside (before or after) the SFC. For a
description of the PLC scan cycle, which includes preprocessing, sequential
processing, and postprocessing, refer to Chapter 2.

Creating Preprocessing/Postprocessing Logic

To create preprocessing logic or postprocessing logic, select the Program menu and
choose Pre/Post. Choose Preprocessing Logic or Postprocessing Logic from the
Pre/Post submenu. (Or, with the Topology window selected, press F5 to choose
preprocessing logic; press SHIFT + F5 to choose postprocessing. The Preprocessing
or Postprocessing dialog box will appear. This dialog box allows you to change the
default terminal language for the pre- or postprocessing logic. When you click OK,
the cursor will move to the Terminal Language window.

Editing Preprocessing/Postprocessing Logic

To edit preprocessing logic (or postprocessing logic), select the Program menu,
choose Pre/Post, and then choose Preprocessing Logic (Postprocessing Logic). The
cursor will move to the Terminal Language window and the selected logic will be
displayed.

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Clearing Preprocessing/Postprocessing Logic

To clear preprocessing logic or postprocessing logic, go to the Program menu, select
Pre/Post, and then choose Clear. When the Clear Pre/Post Processing dialog box
appears, you can choose to clear preprocessing logic, postprocessing logic, or both.
(This menu item will not be available if neither preprocessing nor postprocessing
logic has been created.)

Documenting Your SFC Project

By documenting your program through descriptions, comments, and summary
information, you can make it easier to modify and troubleshoot.
You can provide documentation at several levels. Block summary information
applies to the entire SFC block. Descriptions can be used to annotate steps,
transitions, connectors, and actions within an SFC network. Comments can be used
to provide additional details about steps, transitions, and actions in an SFC network.
You can use the documentation features provided by the terminal language to
describe the underlying logic for actions and transitions. For example, LD allows
you to add a comment to each rung in the ladder logic. Although comments are not
available for preprocessing and postprocessing logic as a whole, you can document
this logic by providing comments at the terminal language level.

Comments
To edit the comment associated with a step or transition (or to add a comment),
select the element, then select the Program menu and choose Comment. You can
also select the element and choose Comment from the pop-up menu. The Insert
Comment window will be displayed.
To edit the comment for an action, with the Topology window selected, go to the
Program menu and choose Action Pool. When the Action Pool dialog box appears,
select the action that you want to annotate and click the Comments button.

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Description
You can provide or edit the description for any selected element or action in its
Properties dialog box. For a selected step or transition, select the Program menu and
choose Properties. You can also select Properties from the pop-up menu, or press
ALT + ENTER. To edit the description for an action, with the Topology window
selected, go to the Program menu and choose Action Pool. When the Action Pool
dialog box appears, select the action that you want to describe and click the
Properties button.

Summary
Summary information can be provided to describe an entire SFC block. To access
the summary for the block, select Header from the Program menu, then click the
Summary button in the Header dialog box. Or, go to the Workbench window, select
the Edit menu, and choose Summary from the Program Options submenu.

Storing Your SFC Program to the PLC

You must first establish communication and go online with the PLC before
performing a Store, Load, or Verify. To access these operations, select the Tools
menu and choose Transfer Utilities. In most cases, you must put the PLC in Stop
mode before storing to the PLC. For details on storing Equipment Folders, refer to
“Transferring Equipment Folders” in Using CIMPLICITY Control, GFK-1295.
The following changes can be stored in Run mode:
• Row and column changes for elements. (No other topology changes can be
stored in Run mode.)
• Changes in terminal language logic.
• Step minimum and maximum time changes. (Changes to step time base cannot
be stored in Run mode.)
For Series 90-30 PLCs, some changes are stored automatically in Run mode. (These
are referred to as “word-for-word” changes.) These changes are not saved
automatically to the programmer; you must save them manually.
A word-for-word change consists of any change that does not alter the length of the
block code, requiring a Block Edit. Examples of this type of change are:
• Changes to a coil address
• Changes to a reference address

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Notes for Logicmaster 90 Users

CIMPLICITY Control provides a Graphical User Interface for programming the
Series 90 PLCs that is very different from Logicmaster 90. However, the basic
elements for creating SFC networks are the same in the two packages. The
following paragraphs highlight major differences between the SFC Editors in the
two packages.

IEC-Compliant Structures
Logicmaster 90 allows certain SFC structures that are not IEC-compliant. These
structures cannot be created in CIMPLICITY Control, but can be imported in a
Logicmaster 90 folder or copied and pasted from a library. For more information,
see “IEC Compliance” in Chapter 2.

Automatic Creation of Branches

The SFC Editor automatically creates a simultaneous or a selective branch,
depending on whether the branch is created following a step or a transition. In
Logicmaster 90, you must insert these branches as separate elements.

Grid Organization
In CIMPLICITY Control, the maximum grid size for an SFC network is 255 rows x
255 columns. In Logicmaster 90, an SFC network is limited to 128 rows and 8
columns. Also, in Logicmaster 90, transitions can be placed only in odd-numbered
rows and steps only in even-numbered rows. In CIMPLICITY Control, there are no
such restrictions as to the placement of elements.

Drag-and-Drop Editing
This feature allows you to easily move elements in the SFC topology. To use drag-
and-drop editing, left mouse click the element and hold the mouse button down

until the cursor changes to . While holding the mouse button, drag the element
to its new position.

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Selection of Multiple Elements

You can select a group of elements by dragging a box around them. In Logicmaster
90, you can select only one element at a time.

Directed Links
CIMPLICITY Control provides directed links for creating SFC structures that flow
against gravity. (These structures can also be created using connectors.)

Step Timer Updates

Logicmaster 90 supports word-for-word updates to step timer values. In
CIMPLICITY Control, you must use ALT+S to store new step timer values to the
PLC.

Compatibility
SFC programs that are created using CIMPLICITY Control cannot be imported into
the Logicmaster 90 package. However, SFC programs created in Logicmaster 90
can be imported by CIMPLICITY Control.

3-44 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
Chapter Troubleshooting
4

Several features are available for use in debugging SFC networks. The Analyze
function checks the network topology. Global checks are provided by the terminal
language used to program the underlying logic of actions, transitions, preprocessing
logic, and postprocessing logic. You can set step time and time base parameters for
diagnostic use when the PLC is online. You can also include the SFC_RESET
function in the Ladder Diagram logic to activate the initial step and deactivate all
other steps and transitions in the network (see “SFC_RESET Function” in
Chapter 2).
When the PLC status is online, you can monitor transition conditions and toggle or
override transition values. You can set step time parameters for monitoring the
duration that steps are active. And, evolution history can be recorded for steps in
your network.
• Analyzing SFC Networks ................................................................4-2
• Setting Time Parameters .................................................................4-2
• Monitoring Transition Conditions ...................................................4-6
• Forcing Transitions .........................................................................4-9
• Recording and Viewing Evolution History.....................................4-10

GFK-1385 4-1
 4

Analyzing SFC Networks

Topology errors are detected by the SFC Editor during the analysis of the SFC
networks. To perform these checks during the edit session, select the Program menu
and choose Analyze. The Analyze function is performed automatically when you
save your program.
Errors generated by the Analyze function are displayed in the Output Log window.
If no errors are generated, the message “Analysis complete. 0 errors found” is
displayed in the status bar.

Setting Time Parameters

You can set the time base for the current SFC block, and minimum and maximum
times for each step in the current block. When the programmer status is Online and
Equal and your program is running, the Set Time Parameters dialog box records
and displays elapsed time and time faults for active steps.
To view time or edit time parameters for the current SFC block, select the Debug
menu and choose Set Time Parameters. The Set Time Parameters dialog box will
appear. You can edit a selected step parameter by typing directly in its field, by
scrolling the values, or by clicking the Edit button to display the Edit Parameters
dialog box.
When the programmer status is Online and Equal, and your program is running,
this window displays the elapsed time (the value of stepname.t) for steps that have
been active and indicates whether the step is faulted (that is, the maximum step
time was exceeded or the minimum step time was not attained).

Note
If the PLC status is equal to the programmer, step times can be
changed online (Run mode stores supported). Changes to the time
base must be done offline (Stop mode store only).

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 4

If you edit Min or Max Time when the status is Online and Equal, and Running, the
animation for the step will be stopped and the Set Time Parameters: Warning dialog
box will appear. After you close the Set Time Parameters dialog box, press Alt + S
to store the changes to the PLC.

GFK-1385 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting 4-3

 4

The Set Time Parameters dialog box contains the following information:
Network
Allows you to select the network within the current SFC block.
Time Base
Allows you to select the time base for the selected SFC network. Time base values
can be 0.01, 0.1, or 1 second, depending on the capabilities of the target PLC. To
change the time base, use the scroll bar, the ↑ and ↓ arrow keys, or type the value.

Table
Step
Displays the current step name. (To display system-generated names only, click the
Display System Name box).
Min Time
Displays minimum step time in time base units. To edit this parameter using the
scroll list, click on the cell in the table. To type in a new value, click the Edit
button. (Typing 0 changes the value to NONE.)
Max Time
Displays maximum step time in time base units. To edit this parameter using the
scroll list, click on the cell in the table. To type in a new value, click the Edit
button. (Typing 0 changes the value to NONE.)
State
When the programmer is online, displays the state of the step.
Elapse Time
When the programmer is online, displays the elapsed time (value of stepname.t) of
the current step.
Fault
When the programmer is online, indicates whether the elapsed time of the current
step fell outside the time parameters (value of stepname.f is set to 1). OVER
indicates the step exceeded the maximum time. UNDER indicates the step did not
attain the minimum time.
Display System Name
When this box is checked, steps will be listed by system-generated names only.

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 4

Edit
To edit minimum and maximum time parameters for the selected step, click this
button. The Edit Parameters dialog box will appear.
The Edit Parameters dialog box allows you to edit time parameters for the selected
step. This dialog box contains the following information.
Step Name
Displays the current step name.
Minimum Time
Allows you to edit the minimum step time.
Maximum Time
Allows you to edit the maximum step time.

GFK-1385 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting 4-5

 4

Monitoring Transition Conditions

When the programmer is online and equal, you can use the Transition Monitor
window to view and evaluate transitions and their corresponding variables.
To open the Transition Monitor window, select the Debug menu and choose
Transition Monitor. An empty Transition Monitor window will appear. Or, select
the transition in the topology, right click, and select Monitor from the pop-up menu.

To add transitions to the Transition list, click the Add button. The Add to
Transition Monitor dialog box will appear. Select the transitions that you want to
monitor and click OK. You can select individual transitions by clicking on them.
You can also select transitions by pressing Tab to select the Transition Name list,
using the up and down arrow keys to choose a transition, and then pressing the
Space key to highlight your selection.

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 4

The Transition Monitor window is updated with each evolution of the SFC network
and shows the states and forced status of each transition being monitored.
The Transition Monitor window contains the following information:
Transition
Lists the names of the transitions currently being monitored. The list is always
empty when this window is initially opened. If the Display System Names box is
checked, only system-generated names are displayed. To see a list of variables used
in a transition, including their states and forced status, click the + shown to the left
of the transition name.
State
Displays the current state (or value) of the transition. Updated with each evolution
of the SFC network.
Forced
Indicates whether the transition is forced (see “Forcing Transitions”).
Display System Names
To display only system-generated names for transitions, check this box.
Add
To add transitions to the list, click this button. The Add to Transition Monitor
dialog box will appear. Select the transitions you want to monitor from this dialog

GFK-1385 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting 4-7

 4

box and click OK. (To clear the Transition list, close the Transition Monitor
window and reopen it.)
Edit
To edit transition logic, select a transition and click this button. The logic for the
selected transition will be displayed in the Terminal Language window.
Close
Closes the dialog box, clears the list of transitions, and stops the monitoring
process.
Description
If you have provided a description in the Transition Properties dialog box, it will be
displayed in the box below the table.

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 4

Forcing Transitions
If the programmer is online and equal to the PLC, the states of the transitions in the
SFC can be changed, regardless of the transition logic. This can be done by toggling
or by overriding the transition state.

Toggle Transition
To toggle the state of a transition when the PLC is online, select the transition, go to
the Debug menu and choose Toggle (or press the F12 key). The effect of toggling a
transition may last only one sweep. On the next sweep, the transition will be
evaluated and the toggled value could be replaced if it is not manually overridden.
An enabled (active) transition is shown with backlighting in the Topology window.
To keep the transition in a toggled state, use the Override Transition function first.

Override Transition
To force the transition to remain in a toggled state, you must first override the
transition. (The PLC must be online to do this.) To override the transition, select the
Debug menu and choose Override (or press the F11 key). An overridden transition
is shown with a bar through it in the Topology window.

GFK-1385 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting 4-9

 4

Recording and Viewing Evolution History

When the programmer is online and equal, you can record the evolution history of
an SFC block. When this feature is enabled, a history of the last eight evolutions of
the SFC block is recorded and displayed. The most recent evolution is displayed
first on the list. Each evolution is time-stamped, and each newly active step for that
evolution is recorded.
Once enabled, evolution history is continuously recorded in the PLC until the
feature is turned off. To turn evolution history recording on or off, select the Debug
menu and choose Evolution History. The Select Block dialog box will appear.

Use the cursor keys or mouse to select the block you want to record history for and
click OK. The Evolution History window will open and display the message
"Connecting to the PLC." To start recording Evolution History, click the On button.

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 4

The Evolution History window provides the following information:

Table
The evolution history display shows the evolution number (up to eight), Time
generated, Network number, and Active Steps. The list of Active Steps shows when
steps became active. (The steps are not necessarily currently active.)
Steps that have a time fault (active duration outside the time parameters) are
indicated by a + (over) or - (under). For information on setting time parameters, see
page 4-2.

Buttons
On
Enables the collection of evolution history of the current SFC block.
Off
Stops evolution history recording.
Clear
Clears the evolution history display.
Close
Closes the Evolution History window. If you close the window while evolution
history is still running, the following message will be displayed. To allow the
evolution history to continue being collected, click OK. To turn evolution history
collection off, click Cancel and then click the Off button. If you close the Evolution
History window without turning it off, it will continue to run. The PLC’s
performance can be improved by turning evolution history recording off.

Start Time
Shows time when PLC history turned on.

GFK-1385 Chapter 4 Troubleshooting 4-11

Chapter Printing SFC Documents
5

To print your SFC program:

1. Select File from the SFC Editor menu and choose Print. The Print dialog box,
which lists the active printer and allows you to customize print options, will
appear.

2. To customize your program listing, click Range. The Option dialog box will
appear.

GFK-1385 5-1
 5

3. To select the SFC topology details and the logic components to be printed, click
on the SFC tab. (The LD and Cross reference tabs can be used to customize the
terminal logic printout. For more information, see “Printing Your Program” in
Using CIMPLICITY Control, GFK-1295.)

4. When you have finished setting the print options and selecting the SFC
components to be included in the printout, click OK to start printing.
The SFC tab presents the following options:
Topology
Enables Topology Options for the selected SFC block.
Preprocessing
Prints preprocessing logic for the selected SFC block.
Postprocessing
Prints postprocessing logic for the selected SFC block.

Topology Options
Allows you to select the details that will be printed for each element. If none of the
boxes in this group is checked, the SFC topology will be printed with system-
generated names only.

Note
The Topology box must be checked for the Topology Options
selections to take effect.

5-2 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 5

Description
Specifies whether descriptions associated with elements will be printed.
Action List
Specifies whether steps will be printed with a list of associated actions.
User Name
Specifies whether user-defined names will be printed. If this box is not checked,
system-generated names will be printed. (This box is checked by default.)
Comments
Specifies whether comments associated with elements will be printed.
Step-Action List
Prints a list of all steps in the block and their associated actions.

Actions
Allows you to select printing of logic for all or specific actions. (If you click
Selected and do not select any actions from the list, none will be printed.)
All
Specifies that the underlying logic of all actions defined in the SFC block will be
printed.
Selected
Allows you to select actions for which the underlying logic will be printed. Actions
defined in the block are shown in the list box.

Transitions
Allows you to select printing of logic for all or specific transitions. (If you click
Selected and do not select any transitions from the list, none will be printed.)
All
Specifies that the underlying logic of all transitions defined in the SFC block will be
printed.
Selected
Allows you to select transitions for which the underlying logic will be printed.
Transitions defined in the block are shown in the list box.

GFK-1385 Chapter 5 Printing SFC Documents 5-3

Appendix Common User Errors

This appendix describes error conditions that are unique to SFC logic blocks and to
the ladder diagram logic found within them. It does not describe ladder diagram
errors that are common to ladder diagram blocks and SFC blocks.
In general, anything that is an error in a relay ladder diagram logic block is also an
error in the relay ladder diagram portion of an SFC block. The global checks that
are made over an entire relay ladder diagram logic block include missing labels,
backward MCR jumps, missing END_FORs, and too many program block calls.
These global checks are also applied individually to each relay ladder diagram
section of an SFC block. For example, every action logic section must have a
matching label for each unique jump within that section of relay ladder diagram
logic. The only exception is the check on the number of program block calls. For an
SFC block, the check is made over the entire block, not the individual relay ladder
diagram logic sections.
• General Errors ......................................................................................A-2
• Transition Logic Errors .........................................................................A-2
• Transition Logic, Action Logic, and Preprocessing/Postprocessing
Logic Errors..........................................................................................A-3
• General SFC Element Errors .................................................................A-3
• SFC Top Level Errors ...........................................................................A-4

GFK-1385 A-1
 A

General Errors
The following errors will be detected while entering a relay ladder diagram rung:
• Reference to a transition variable name outside the relay ladder diagram
transition logic for the variable.
• Attempting to write to a step.x or step.f flag.
• Attempting to write to a step.t value.

Transition Logic Errors

The following error conditions will be detected by the Analyze function. The block
will remain unexecutable until these errors are corrected. (The block can be saved
with the errors, but they must be corrected before the logic can be stored to the
PLC.)
• Transition variable was not set.
• Transition logic does not contain exactly one regular (non-comment) rung.
• Transition logic sets variable(s) other than transition variable.

A-2 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 A

Other Logic Errors

The following error conditions in transition, action, or preprocessing/postprocessing
logic will be detected when the program is compiled. The SFC block will remain
unexecutable until these errors are corrected.
• A jump/label name is used in another relay ladder diagram logic section in this
block.
• An MCR/END_MCR name is used in another relay ladder diagram logic
section in this block.
The following error conditions must be corrected immediately:
• A backward MCR jump.
• Too many nested FOR loops.
• Too many EXIT_FOR loops.
• Attempting to flow more than 16 bytes of data between function blocks
(instructions). You can use registers on the output of one function block and the
input of the next function block instead.

General SFC Element Errors

The following errors will be detected at entry and must be corrected immediately:
• Attempting to add more steps, transitions, or unique connectors than the target
PLC can handle. (See appendix B for target PLC limits.)
• Attempting to extend the SFC network beyond 255 rows or 255 columns.
• More than 32 parallel branches within one control structure.

GFK-1385 Appendix A Common User Errors A-3

 A

SFC Top Level Errors

The following errors can occur at the main level of the SFC network. The block will
remain unexecutable until they are corrected.
In addition to catching the errors that occur at the main level of the SFC, the
Analyze function detects errors at all other levels of the SFC block. Errors are listed
in the program Log window. The Analyze function starts automatically when the
program is saved and can be started manually from the Program menu.
Detected immediately:
• Step and source connector directly connected.
• Multiple occurrences of the same destination connector.
Detected by the Analyze function:
• Transition not preceded by a step.
• Transition not followed by a step, source connector, or directed link.
• Disconnected SFC segments (two or more sections of an SFC network that are
not connected by vertical links, horizontal branches, or connectors).
• More than one initial step.
• Missing initial step.
• Initial step occurs inside a simultaneous control structure.
• Destination connector that jumps into a simultaneous control structure from
outside of it.
• Missing destination connector.
• Improper nesting of control structures. (Simultaneous convergences cannot be
closed by selective convergences and vice versa.)
• Attempts to jump outside of a simultaneous divergence.
• Unreachable structures, that is, places in the topology that power flow will
never get to.

A-4 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 A

• Illegal terminations in a simultaneous divergence. If a simultaneous divergence

contains a selective divergence, and if any of the branches of the selective
divergence reach a simultaneous convergence, all the branches of the selective
divergence must reach the simultaneous convergence (none can end in a step).
• Convergences immediately followed by divergences with no elements in
between.
• Illegal jumps. Connectors cannot be used to jump between branches in a
simultaneous divergence or outside of the simultaneous divergence.
• Transitions cannot be immediately followed by more than one source
connector.
• Transitions cannot be immediately followed by both steps and source
connectors.
• Disconnected transitions. Transitions must be connected to elements on both
sides.
• Connectors can have multiple sources, but only one destination.
• If a simultaneous divergence is within a loop (due to either a directed link or
use of connectors), all branches within the simultaneous divergence must
converge.

GFK-1385 Appendix A Common User Errors A-5

Appendix PLC Limits

This Appendix contains a listing of SFC performance parameters for Series 90-30
and Series 90-70 PLCs.
The CIMPLICITY Control SFC Editor, release 2.0 supports the following PLCs.
Series 90-30 PLCs Series 90-70 PLCs
CPU 361 CPU 731
CPU 360 CPU 771
CPU 352 CPU 772
CPU 351 CPU 781
CPU 782
CPM 914, 915
CPM 924, 925

GFK-1385 B-1
 B

Table B-1. Target PLC Constraints for Series 90-70 PLCs

Feature Release 6 Release 7 Release 8
Number of SFC networks per SFC block 1 1 1
Maximum number of steps per SFC network 255 255 255
Maximum number of steps per block 255 255 255
Maximum number of simultaneous active steps 32 32 32
per SFC network
Maximum number of transitions per SFC 383 383 383
network
Maximum number of transitions per block 383 383 383
Maximum number of action blocks per step 8 8 8
Maximum number of actions per block 511 511 511
Action Qualifiers N: non-stored N: non-stored N: non-stored
Maximum use count per action N/A 127 127
Maximum number of parallel branches in a 32 32 32
simultaneous sequence per SFC network
Use of LD terminal language yes yes yes
Maximum depth of evolution history queue 8 8 8
Number of blocks capable of being SFC blocks* 255 255 255
Maximum level of call nesting 8 8 8
*Constrained by memory

B-2 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 B

Table B-2. Target PLC Constraints for Series 90-30 PLCs

Feature Release 5 Release 8
Number of SFC networks per SFC block 1 1
Maximum number of steps per SFC network 96 96
Maximum number of steps per block 96 96
Maximum number of simultaneous active steps 32 32
per SFC network
Maximum number of transitions per SFC 96 96
network
Maximum number of transitions per block 96 96
Maximum number of action blocks per step 1 8
Maximum number of actions per block 255 255
Action Qualifiers N: non-stored N: non-stored
Maximum number of parallel branches in a 32 32
simultaneous sequence per SFC network
Use of LD terminal language yes yes
Macro-steps no no
Maximum depth of evolution history queue 8 8
Number of blocks capable of being SFC blocks* 1 (main) 65 (main plus
64 blocks)
Maximum level of call nesting 8 8
*Constrained by memory

GFK-1385 Appendix B PLC Limits B-3

Appendix Glossary

Action count The number, at the upper right corner of a step, that indicates how many actions are
number associated with the step.
Against gravity In the SFC Editor, this term indicates logic flow that goes from the bottom to the top of the
topology. Logic that flows against gravity can be created using a directed link or
connectors.
Cycle A logical structure in which the flow of execution is transferred to a step that comes before
the current step in the SFC network. This structure provides the ability to create a
conditional loop. In the SFC Editor, the connector element is used to create this structure.
(Also see jump.)
Directed link A link that flows against gravity. A directed link must go from a transition to a step.
Gravity In the SFC Editor, this term indicates that the normal logic flow goes from the top to the
bottom of the topology and from left to right. Links between elements are created as
gravity connections by default.
GUI Graphical User Interface.
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission.
Jump A logical structure in which the flow of execution is transferred to a step that comes after
the current step in the SFC network. This structure allows steps to be conditionally
skipped. In the SFC Editor, the connector element is used to create this structure (also see
cycle).
SFC Sequential Function Chart programming language.
SFC element An SFC element can be an initial step, step, transition, or connector.
SFC time fault Occurs when a step's active time is less than the minimum time or exceeds the maximum
time specified in the Set Time Parameters dialog box.
Terminal language The underlying logic of the SFC program organizational units is written in another
programming language. The terminal languages used in the SFC editor include Structured
Text, Ladder Diagram, and Function Block Diagram. For protected mode target PLCs
only, you can use more than one terminal language within an SFC network.
Terminal step A step that is not followed by a transition.

GFK-1385 C-1
 Index

Connector
in a cycle structure, 2-19
A in a jump structure, 2-18
Action using, 3-24
logic, 2-3 Convergence of simultaneous
logic, editing, 3-34 sequences, 2-21
Action count number Creating steps and transitions,
defined, C-1 3-19
Action pool Cursor lock, 3-16
editing, 3-35 Customizing the Topology
Action qualifiers, 3-38 window display, 3-16
Against gravity Cycle
defined, C-1 defined, C-1
in basic control structures, illustrated, 2-19
2-17
Analyze function
errors detected by, A-4 D
Analyzing SFC networks, 4-2 Deleting SFC elements, 3-33
Animation of Topology, 3-7 Dialog boxes
Action Pool, 3-21, 3-35
B Clear Pre/Post Processing,
3-40
Basic control structures Confirm Action Replace,
convergent selective 3-32
sequence, 2-13 Connector Properties, 3-24
convergent simultaneous Elements, 3-19
sequence, 2-15 GoTo, 3-26
cycle, 2-19 New Action, 3-14, 3-21
divergent selective sequence, New Transition, 3-15
2-12 Pre-processing/Post-
divergent simultaneous processing, 3-39
sequence, 2-14 Search, 3-26
IEC compliance, 2-23 SFC Editor Options, 3-13
jump, 2-18 SFC Limits, 3-18
rules for, 2-20 Step Properties, 3-33
sequence loop, 2-17 Step-Action Association,
sequence skip, 2-16 3-37
simple sequence, 2-11 Dialog boxes, diagnostics
Building an SFC network, Add to Transition Monitor,
3-19 4-6
Evolution History, 4-10
Select Block (for evolution
C history, 4-10
Set Time Parameters
Comments Warning, 4-3
adding to an element or Transition Monitor window,
action, 3-7 4-6
indicated by *, 3-7 Dialog boxes, getting started
Confirm Action Replace, 3-32
GFK-1385 Index-1
Index

New Block, 3-3 non-IEC-compliant

New Main Block, 3-2 divergence, 2-24
Dialog boxes, printing SFC control sequence, 2-5
Option, 5-1 SFC evolution, 2-9
SFC tab, 5-2
Directed link
creating, 3-24
G
example, 2-17 General errors, A-2
Display mode, 3-17 Getting started, 3-2
Documenting your SFC GoTo, 3-26
project, 3-40 Gravity
defined, C-1
E in basic control structures,
2-11
Editing an SFC network, 3-26 Grid display options, 3-16
Editing mode, 3-20
Editor options setting, 3-13
Elements
H
comments, 3-40 Hot keys, 3-10
connecting, 3-23 How elements are displayed,
copying, 3-31 3-6
cutting, 3-30
deleting, 3-33
disconnecting, 3-30 I
moving, 3-30
pasting, 3-31 IEC
properties, 3-33 defined, C-1
searching, 3-26 Importing a Logicmaster 90
selecting, 3-30 SFC program, 3-3
Errors, common user Initial step, 2-3
general errors, A-2 Insert mode, 3-20
general SFC element errors, Insert network, 3-18
A-3 Installing the software, 1-2
logic errors, A-3 Introduction, 1-1
SFC top-level errors, A-4
transition logic errors, A-2
Evolution J
SFC, 2-8
Evolution history Jump
recording and viewing, 4-10 defined, C-1
illustrated, 2-18
Examples
basic control structures, 2-11
convergence of simultaneous
sequences, 2-21
K
nesting of dissimilar Key functions, 3-10
sequences, 2-22
non-IEC-compliant
convergence, 2-23

Index-2 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 Index

viewing, 3-18
L PLC scan cycle, 2-6
Limits, SFC PLCs
Series 90-30, B-3 supported by SFC Editor,
Series 90-70, B-2 1-1, B-1
viewing, 3-18 Pop-up menu, SFC, 3-9
Lock cursor, 3-16 Preprocessing/postprocessing
Logic errors, A-3 logic
Logicmaster 90 clearing, 3-40
importing an SFC program, editing, 3-39
3-3 Properties, 3-33
SFC Editor comparison, 3-42
R
M Recording and viewing
Main SFC block evolution history, 4-10
creating, 3-2 Regular step, 2-3
Monitoring transition Replace, 3-26
conditions, 4-6 Reserved words, 3-2
Reset function, 2-25
N RLD and SFC, 2-1
Rules for connecting elements,
Navigating in the SFC 3-25
network, 3-26
Nesting of dissimilar
sequences, 2-22
S
New SFC block Scan cycle, PLC, 2-6
creating, 3-3 Search and Replace, 3-26
Non-IEC-compliant Sequential function chart
convergence, 2-23 general SFC element errors,
Non-IEC-compliant A-3
divergence, 2-24 SFC top-level errors, A-4
Setting time parameters, 4-2
SFC
O basic control structures, 2-11
errors, A-1
Online documentation, 1-2
example sequence, 2-5
Output Log window IEC compliance, 2-23
analyze results, 4-2
steps, 2-3
search results, 3-29
transition, 2-4
Override transition, 4-9 SFC Editor
Overwrite mode, 3-20 options, setting, 3-13
status bar, 3-8
P Terminal Language window,
3-12
Paste (with Logic), 3-32 toolbar, 3-8
PLC limits Topology window, 3-6

GFK-1385 Index Index-3

Index

Variable Declaration Editor

window, 3-12 T
windows, 3-4
Terminal language
SFC elements defined, C-1
comments, 3-40
Terminal Language window,
connecting, 3-23
copying, 3-31 3-12
creating, 3-19 Terminal step
cutting, 3-30 defined, C-1
deleting, 3-33 Time fault
disconnecting, 3-30 defined, C-1
moving, 3-30 Time parameters
pasting, 3-31 setting, 4-2
properties, 3-33 Toggle transition, 4-9
searching, 3-26 Toolbar, SFC, 3-8
selecting, 3-30 Topology window, 3-6
SFC evolution, 2-8 Topology, animation, 3-7
SFC limits Transition logic errors, A-2
Series 90-30, B-3 Transitions, 2-4
Series 90-70, B-2
editing logic, 3-34
viewing, 3-18
forcing, 4-9
SFC networks monitoring, 4-6
analyzing, 4-2 Troubleshooting
creating, 3-18
general errors, A-2
SFC pop-up menu, 3-9 general SFC element errors,
SFC_RESET, 2-25 A-3
Software logic errors, A-3
installing the software, 1-2 SFC top-level errors, A-4
Status Bar transition logic errors, A-2
SFC, 3-8
Step status values
defined, 2-8
U
resetting, 2-25 Undoing a delete, 3-33
Step-action associations User-defined names
editing, 3-37 displayed, 3-6
number of actions associated
Using online documentation,
with step, 3-7
1-2
Steps
action logic, 2-3
initial step, 2-3 V
regular step, 2-3
setting time parameters for, Variable Declaration Editor
4-2 window, SFC, 3-12
Summary information, 3-41 Variable names
System-generated names system-generated, 3-12
displayed, 3-6 user-defined, 3-6
in Variable Declaration
editor, 3-12

Index-4 CIMPLICITY® Control: Using the Sequential Function Chart Editor – November 1997 GFK-1385
 Index

W
What you will need, 1-2
Word-for-word changes, 3-41

Z
Zoom, 3-16

GFK-1385 Index Index-5