Formula: Build Your Own

The Formula function, located on the Math menu, enables you to apply mathematical operators to operand values, and then output the result to a register.

To create a formula, place the Formula function in the Ladder; the Edit formula box opens. You can type in constant numbers, parameters and operators. You can also select parameters and operators from the drop-down lists.

Note

The formula syntax conforms to normal mathematical notation.

With the exception of the - (minus) sign, binary operators cannot be used to begin a formula. The other binary operators include Add [+[, Mul [*], Div [/], Parenthesis [( )], and Power.

Unary operators, such as Sin, may be used to begin a formula.

 

 

You can create a parameter name using a mixture of characters and numbers.

 

Note

A parameter name may not begin with a number or contain spaces. Use an underscore ( _ ) in place of spaces.

A constant may not exceed the value of a MF or ML.

In the following cases, controller will process the formula using floating registers:

  • If the formula contains one or more floating operands.

  • If a constant value in the formula is not a whole number

  • If an operator, such as trigonometric operators, requires that the PLC use a floating register to complete its operation.