What is a counter object?

Definition

A counter object is actually a variation on the standard analog type. Similar to the analog type, a counter object may take on any value up to a given maximum. Unlike the analog object type, though, a counter object has only one alarm limit.

 

Use

A counter object is typically used for counting hours of operation of, for example, a motor to ensure that maintenance is performed on time. This use would imply that the PLC program would start the counter when the motor starts and stop it when the motor stops.

 

How to define a counter object

Click here images\CHICLET.gif to learn how to define a counter object.

 

Graphical display on diagrams

Usually, a counter object will be shown as a rectangular field showing the name of the object and the current count.

Click here for further information about graphical display of counter objects.

 

How to view properties

Once the counter object is defined and its symbol is placed on a process diagram, you can view its properties in a number of different ways.

The properties can be changed at any time.