User guide

2706-UM001A-US-P
Chapter 9
Using the Variable Data Feature
Chapter Objectives
In this chapter you will learn how to insert up to five digits of variable data
in a message. You will learn:
• how to program messages with embedded variables.
• the format of the variable data.
• timing requirements for the transfer of variable data.
Variable Data Limits
The DL5 can accept message triggers and variable data using either the
parallel or serial port.
Serial Port - The serial port accepts CTRL-T commands for message
triggers and CTRL-V commands for variable data. The range for variable
data sent to the serial port is (0-65535). Serial commands always use
decimal numeric values (binary and BCD distinctions do not apply).
Parallel Port - The parallel port can be set to accept either binary or BCD
formatted data for message triggers and variable data input.
Whichever format (BCD or binary) you select will be used for both the
variable data and message triggers. You cannot input message triggers in
one format and variable data in another format. The table below shows the
largest variable and message number that can be entered for both binary and
BCD formats.
Maximum Ranges for Variable Data sent to Parallel Port
You cannot enter negative numbers for variable data.
Scan
Mode
Input Format for Message
and Variable Data
Maximum
Message Number
Largest
Variable Value
BN Binary 999 16,383
BC BCD 999 3,999