How to Program GE Fanuc Series 90 30 PLC: Cable Options and Software Recommendations

Question:

I need assistance with programming a Series 90 30 PLC from GE Fanuc. Although I haven't worked with GE Fanuc PLCs before, I believe this is a minor adjustment, so it should be manageable. However, I do require guidance regarding the programming cable. Is this cable something that needs to be purchased directly from the manufacturer, or is it feasible to create one myself? If DIY is an option, could someone please share the pinout information for a suitable cable? I've browsed the GE Fanuc website, but I noticed there are numerous types of PLCs available. Is there a universal programming cable that works for all or do I need to consider different options? I would appreciate any direction on whether I should request the customer to purchase a specific lead or if anyone could provide a pinout for a cable that will suffice. Additionally, I want to confirm whether I'm correct in recommending VersaPro to the customer as the appropriate programming software for this PLC. Thank you for any insights you can provide on this matter. Best regards, JT

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Hello Johnny, The cable in question is proprietary, specifically designated as HE693SNP232A. It functions as an RS232 to SNP adapter, manufactured by Horner Electric Inc. While I'm not familiar with Versapro, I believe that information is accurate. I typically utilize version 6.8. Could you please let me know your location in Great Britain? One of our team members will be in Burnley next week, and if you're nearby, I can arrange for him to deliver one to you for your use. Best regards, Lynn

Growing up in Burnley, I now reside just ten miles away and spend most of my workweek in Blackburn, which is conveniently located next to Burnley. If you happen to have a spare lead available, I would greatly appreciate it! I do need to request that I keep it for a week or two, as I am currently swamped with other commitments. Rest assured, I will promptly return the lead to you if necessary. Please let me know if this arrangement works for you. You can reach me directly at: [email protected] (just be sure to remove the NOSPAM part). Wishing you all the best, John!

Programming cables can be conveniently found on eBay. Simply search for "Fanuc PLC programming cable," and you should discover several options available for purchase. For pinout diagrams, visit the GE website; you'll find the link in the PLC help section above for manufacturers. It’s important to exercise caution when purchasing software on eBay—ensure you know exactly what you’re buying, as many listings feature outdated versions that may not function with newer equipment. If I recall correctly, the programming lead typically consists of an RS232 cable paired with an RS485 adapter. If anyone has the appropriate manual link, please share, as I’m currently unable to find it. Best regards, Casey.

Thank you, Casey! I will look into the pinout details. I have already searched on eBay, but I couldn't find any programming cables compatible with the Series 9 PLC. I appreciate your assistance!

Each 90-30 series module can be easily programmed through the 15-pin port located on the power supply within the same rack as the CPU. This port utilizes RS485 communication and necessitates the converter mentioned in a previous post. Additionally, certain 90-30 models feature extra programming ports on the CPU module itself. Specifically, the CPU351, CPU352, and CPU363 variants are equipped with an RS232 port. You can find detailed information about the pin configurations in the manual GFK-0356, which is available online. To successfully program the CPU, it's essential to identify the software package that created the existing program. The latest version is known as Cimplicity Machine Edition, while its predecessor is VersaPro. Moreover, there is an older DOS-based software package called Logicmaster 90 that remains widely used. If the customer possesses a backup file of their program, the newer software packages can conveniently convert files generated by these earlier versions, ensuring a seamless transition.

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