DirectSoft 5 Programming Software User Manual

DirectSoft 5 is a comprehensive PLC programming software suite for AutomationDirect's line of programmable logic controllers. This software provides ladder logic programming, debugging, monitoring, and maintenance capabilities for various PLC platforms including DirectLOGIC, Do-more, and Productivity series controllers. Below are key sections covering installation, features, programming basics, troubleshooting, and advanced functions.

1. Features at a Glance 2. System Requirements 3. Installation Process 4. Software Specifications 5. Interface Overview 6. Programming Basics 7. Communication Setup 8. Debugging Tools 9. Advanced Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ladder logic editor, Project manager, Communication setup, Online monitoring, Cross-reference, Data view editor.

Feature	Description
Ladder Logic Editor	Graphical programming environment for ladder diagrams
Project Manager	Organize and manage multiple PLC programs
Communication Setup	Configure serial, Ethernet, and USB connections
Online Monitoring	Real-time program execution monitoring
Cross-reference	Track memory usage and program references
Data View Editor	Monitor and modify data table values
Instruction Help	Context-sensitive help for programming instructions
Program Compare	Compare offline and online programs
Force I/O	Temporary override of input/output states
Password Protection	Secure program access and modifications

System Requirements

Minimum system requirements for optimal performance.

Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11 (32-bit or 64-bit)
Processor: 1 GHz or faster processor
Memory: 2 GB RAM minimum (4 GB recommended)
Hard Disk: 500 MB available space
Display: 1024x768 resolution minimum
Communication: USB port, serial port, or Ethernet adapter

WARNING! Ensure system meets minimum requirements before installation to avoid performance issues.

Installation Process

Step-by-step installation guide for DirectSoft 5.

Download installer from AutomationDirect website or insert installation media
Run setup.exe as administrator
Follow installation wizard prompts
Select installation directory and components
Install communication drivers when prompted
Restart computer if required
Launch DirectSoft 5 and activate license

CAUTION! Close all other applications before installation. Ensure proper administrator privileges.

Software Specifications

Version: DirectSoft 5 (Latest Release)
Supported PLCs: DirectLOGIC, Do-more, Productivity series
Programming Languages: Ladder Logic, Instruction List
Communication Protocols: Serial, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP
File Formats: .DS5, .DSP, .PDF export
Memory Management: Automatic memory optimization
Backup: Automatic project backup and recovery
License: Single-user license with activation

Interface Overview

Main interface components: Menu bar, Toolbar, Project tree, Ladder editor, Status bar.

Menu Bar: File, Edit, View, PLC, Communications, Tools, Window, Help.

Toolbar: Standard editing tools, Communication buttons, Online/Offline toggle. Project Tree: Program organization, Data tables, System configuration. Ladder Editor: Rung editing, Instruction insertion, Commenting. Status Bar: Connection status, PLC mode, Error messages.

Programming Basics

Creating and editing ladder logic programs.

Create new project: File > New > Select PLC type
Add ladder rungs: Right-click in editor > Insert Rung
Insert instructions: Drag from instruction palette or use Insert menu
Add comments: Double-click element or use Comment tool
Verify program: Tools > Verify Program for syntax errors
Compile program: Build program for download to PLC

Tip: Use descriptive names for variables and add comments for program clarity.

Communication Setup

Configuring communication with PLC hardware.

Select communication type: Serial, Ethernet, or USB
Configure port settings: Baud rate, parity, stop bits
Set IP address: For Ethernet communication
Test connection: Communications > Test Connection
Go online: Connect to PLC for programming/monitoring

WARNING! Ensure proper communication settings match PLC configuration. Verify cable connections.

Debugging Tools

Tools for program testing and troubleshooting.

Online Monitoring: Real-time program execution view
Data View: Monitor and modify data table values
Cross-reference: Track memory usage throughout program
Force I/O: Temporary override of input/output states
Program Compare: Compare offline and online programs
Error Log: View system errors and warnings
Breakpoints: Pause program execution at specific points
Watch Window: Monitor specific variables in real-time

WARNING! Use Force I/O carefully in live systems. Document all forced changes.

Advanced Features

Advanced programming and configuration options.

Structured Text: Text-based programming option. Function Blocks: Pre-defined logic blocks. PID Configuration: Process control loop setup. Recipe Management: Parameter sets for different processes. Security: Password protection for programs and functions.

Regulatory Information

DirectSoft 5 complies with industry standards for industrial software. Copyright © AutomationDirect. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.automationdirect.com/support or contact 1-800-633-0405.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Cannot connect to PLC	Communication settings/cable	Verify communication settings; check cable connections; test port.
Program won't download	PLC mode/memory	Ensure PLC in program mode; check available memory; verify program size.
Software crashes	System compatibility	Update to latest version; check system requirements; reinstall software.
Instructions grayed out	PLC type/online mode	Verify correct PLC type selected; check online/offline mode.
Communication timeout	Network issues/settings	Check network connectivity; verify IP addresses; adjust timeout settings.

Reset: Tools > Reset Settings to default if experiencing persistent issues.

Support: 1-800-633-0405; www.automationdirect.com/support