The primary task of the weighing electronics is to determine the current weight and force values on the basis of the signals supplied by the connected sensors. Thanks to the seamless integration into the SIMATIC environment, values can be processed directly and in any available programming language of the CPU. If the freely selectable and internally monitored values are exceeded or undershot, this is reported directly to the controller. A variety of status and diagnostic information can also be read out and evaluated in the CPU without difficulty.

The SIWAREX WP321 is calibrated in the factory. This not only permits automatic calibration of the scales (without the need for calibration weights), but also the replacement of modules without the need for recalibration.

Via the integral RS 485 port, a PC can be connected for setting the parameters of the weighing electronics using the "SIWATOOL" software. A USB RS 485 interface converter is required for this purpose.

Thanks to its seamless integration into the SIMATIC environment, the use of SIWAREX weighing electronics requires no complicated or expensive communication drivers for the scales.

Programmable weighing applications tailored to any situation can be created and then adapted or extended at any time in combination with the functionalities of the TIA Portal and of the SIMATIC Manager and WinCC flexible.

Likewise, WP321 enables scales to be set up in hazardous areas. Depending on the zone and the load cells used, the use of the SIWAREX IS Ex interface may also be necessary.

SIWAREX WP321 Ready for use

For an easy introduction to the integration of the module into the TIA Portal and SIMATIC Manager, a "Ready for use" sample project is available free of charge. This project demonstrates the integration of the module into the hardware configuration and contains the function block for communication between the CPU and SIWAREX. It also contains a ready-made data block that contains all the parameters for the scales. The "Ready for use" project is rounded off with a touch panel configuration feature, which not only permits complete commissioning of the scales from the panel, but also includes an "operator view" that can be used as an example for the normal operation of the scales.

SIWAREX WP321 SIWATOOL

SIWATOOL is a service software tool which enables you to calibrate the module quickly and efficiently on site, set or reset parameters, or perform diagnostics in the event of a fault. Furthermore, complete backup files can be created for the scales, which can be uploaded to a new module with a few mouse clicks, so that the module continues to operate exactly as it did before the backup, without the need for any recalibration. It is even possible to upload configuration files that were created offline, or to read out the error buffer. No special SIMATIC knowledge is required to use SIWATOOL. It is connected via the RS 485 port of the module which requires the use of a USB RS 485 interface converter. Please refer to the WP321 manual for further recommendations.