Direct Soft Manual

Direct Soft is a comprehensive PLC programming software suite designed for industrial automation applications. It provides intuitive ladder logic programming, simulation capabilities, real-time monitoring, and extensive device support for various PLC models. Below are key sections covering installation, features, programming basics, troubleshooting, and advanced functions.

Features Overview

Key components: Ladder Logic Editor, Real-time Monitoring, Simulation Mode, Project Management, Cross-reference, Documentation Tools.

Feature	Description
Ladder Logic Editor	Intuitive drag-and-drop programming interface
Real-time Monitoring	Live view of PLC status and variable values
Simulation Mode	Offline testing without physical hardware
Project Management	Organize programs, documentation, and configurations
Cross-reference	Track instruction usage throughout program
Documentation Tools	Add comments and descriptions to ladder logic
Communication Setup	Configure serial, Ethernet, and USB connections
Data Monitoring	Real-time data table viewing and editing
Program Compare	Compare different program versions
Online Editing	Make changes while PLC is running

System Requirements

Minimum hardware and software specifications for optimal performance.

• Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i5 or equivalent
• Memory: 8GB RAM minimum, 16GB recommended
• Storage: 2GB available disk space
• Display: 1280x1024 resolution minimum
• Communication: USB 2.0, RS-232, Ethernet
• Additional: Administrator privileges for installation

Installation Guide

Step-by-step installation procedure for Direct Soft software.

1. Download installation package from official website
2. Run setup.exe as administrator
3. Follow on-screen installation wizard
4. Accept license agreement
5. Choose installation directory
6. Select components to install
7. Complete installation and restart computer

WARNING! Close all other applications before installation. Ensure adequate disk space.

Getting Started

Initial setup and basic navigation of Direct Soft interface.

1. Launch Direct Soft from Start menu or desktop shortcut
2. Create new project or open existing file
3. Configure PLC type and communication settings
4. Navigate main interface: Project tree, ladder editor, status bar
5. Set up communication with PLC hardware
6. Create basic ladder logic program
7. Test program in simulation mode

CAUTION! Always backup existing programs before making changes.

Programming Basics

Fundamental ladder logic programming concepts and instructions.

Basic Instructions: XIC (Examine If Closed), XIO (Examine If Open), OTE (Output Energize), OTL (Output Latch), OTU (Output Unlatch).

Programming workflow: Create rungs, add instructions, assign addresses, verify logic, test program. Data types: Binary, Integer, Floating Point, Timer, Counter. Addressing: Direct addressing for inputs, outputs, internal relays, data registers.

Communication Setup

Configuring communication between Direct Soft and PLC hardware.

1. Select communication type: Serial, Ethernet, USB
2. Configure port settings: Baud rate, parity, stop bits
3. Set IP address for Ethernet communication
4. Test connection using ping or communication test
5. Establish online connection with PLC

Tip: Always verify communication settings match PLC configuration.

Advanced Functions

Advanced programming features and specialized functions.

1. Subroutines: Create reusable program sections
2. Interrupt routines: Handle time-critical events
3. PID control: Implement process control loops
4. Data handling: Move, compare, and manipulate data
5. Math operations: Arithmetic and logical operations
6. File operations: Read/write to data files
7. Recipe management: Store and recall parameter sets
8. Alarm handling: Configure fault detection and reporting

WARNING! Test advanced functions thoroughly before deployment.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for Direct Soft operation.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Communication failure	Incorrect settings/cable	Verify communication parameters; check cable connections
Program won't download	PLC mode/protection	Ensure PLC in program mode; check write protection
Software crashes	Memory/conflicts	Close other applications; reinstall software
Instructions grayed out	Edit mode/privileges	Switch to edit mode; check user permissions
Simulation not working	Configuration	Verify simulation settings; check program logic

Reset: Reboot computer and restart software if issues persist.

Technical Specifications

• Supported PLCs: DirectLogic series, compatible models
• Programming Languages: Ladder Logic, Function Block
• File Formats: .PRJ, .DSP, export to PDF/XML
• Maximum Program Size: Varies by PLC model
• Online Editing: Supported for most instructions
• Version Control: Basic project comparison
• Documentation: Integrated comment system
• Security: Password protection for projects

Support & Resources

Technical support, documentation, and additional resources.

Online documentation available at manufacturer website. Technical support: Phone, email, and online chat. Training resources: Video tutorials, user forums, application notes. Software updates: Check for latest version regularly.

Contact: Support hotline: 1-800-DIRECT-SOFT | Website: www.directsoft-support.com