Create file with datapoint definitions

In order to read outputs from the PLC and write inputs to the PLC, this variables need to get defined somewhere. Therefore, the datapoint file is used. After defining the datapoints and creating the file, twin can easily import that definitions.

To define the datapoints correctly, the following columns are important:

  • Task: Determines if the datapoint is from type in- or output. ActValues are outputs, SetValues are inputs.
  • Name: Determines the name in the twin UI later. The name has to be unique.
  • TAG: Is automatically created and is needed for the datapoint system of twin.
  • Datatype: Determines the datatype of the IO in the PLC.
  • Datafile: Determines the symbolic name of the IO in the PLC.
  • Group: Determines the polling time for outputs (ActValues) in ms. Inputs (SetValues) do not need this.

The following clip shows how to create the responsible file correctly.

Next

In the next chapter we import that created datapoint file and establish a connection to the PLC instance.