Machine Automation Controller

NX-series
CPU Unit
Automation Playback

User’s Manual

NX502-1£00

CPU Unit

W639-E1-01
NOTE
1. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted, in any form, or by any means, mechanical, electronic, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of OMRON.
2. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained herein.
Moreover, because OMRON is constantly striving to improve its high-quality products, the infor-
mation contained in this manual is subject to change without notice.
3. Every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual. Nevertheless, OMRON as-
sumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained in
this publication.

Trademarks
• Sysmac and SYSMAC are trademarks or registered trademarks of OMRON Corporation in Japan
and other countries for OMRON factory automation products.
• Microsoft, Windows, Excel, Visual Basic, and Microsoft Edge are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries.
• EtherCAT® is registered trademark and patented technology, licensed by Beckhoff Automation
GmbH, Germany.
• ODVA, CIP, CompoNet, DeviceNet, and EtherNet/IP are trademarks of ODVA.

• The SD and SDHC logos are trademarks of SD-3C, LLC.

Other company names and product names in this document are the trademarks or registered trade-
marks of their respective companies.

Copyrights
• Microsoft product screen shots used with permission from Microsoft.
• This product incorporates certain third party software. The license and copyright information associ-
ated with this software is available at http://www.fa.omron.co.jp/nj_info_e/.
 Introduction

Introduction
Thank you for purchasing an NX-series CPU Unit.
This manual contains information that is necessary to use automation playback with the NX-series
CPU Unit. Please read this manual and make sure you understand the functionality and performance
of the NX-series CPU Unit before you attempt to use it in a control system.
When you have finished reading this manual, keep it in a safe location where it will be readily available
for future use.

Intended Audience
This manual is intended for the following personnel, who must also have knowledge of electrical sys-
tems (an electrical engineer or the equivalent).
• Personnel in charge of introducing FA systems.
• Personnel in charge of designing FA systems.
• Personnel in charge of installing and maintaining FA systems.
• Personnel in charge of managing FA systems and facilities.
For programming, this manual is intended for personnel who understand the programming language
specifications in international standard IEC 61131-3 or Japanese standard JIS B 3503.

Applicable Products
This manual covers the following product.
• NX-series CPU Unit
NX502-1£00

Part of the specifications and restrictions for the CPU Unit are given in other manuals. Refer to Rele-
vant Manuals on page 2 and Related Manuals on page 19.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 1

Relevant Manuals

Relevant Manuals
The following table provides the relevant manuals for the NX-series CPU Units. Read all of the man-
uals that are relevant to your system configuration and application before you use the NX-series CPU
Unit.
Most operations are performed from the Sysmac Studio Automation Software. Refer to the Sysmac
Studio Version 1 Operation Manual (Cat. No. W504) for information on the Sysmac Studio.

Manual
Basic informa-
tion
Hardware User’s Manual
NX-series NX502 CPU Unit
Software User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
Instructions Reference Manual
NJ/NX-series
Motion Control User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
Motion Control Instructions Reference Manual
NJ/NX-series
Built-in EtherCAT Port User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
Built-in EtherNet/IP Port User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
EtherNet/IP Unit User’s Manual
NX-series
OPC UA User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
FINS Function User’s Manual
NX-series CPU Unit
User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series Database Connection CPU Units
Automation Playback User’s Manual
NX-series CPU Unit
Troubleshooting Manual
NJ/NX-series
Purpose of use

Introduction to NX502 CPU Units l

Setting devices and hardware
Using motion control l
l
Using EtherCAT l
Using EtherNet/IP l l
Software settings
Using motion control l
Using EtherCAT l
Using EtherNet/IP l l
Using OPC UA l l
Using FINS l
Using the database connection serv-
l
ice
Using automation playback l

2 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Relevant Manuals

Manual
Basic informa-
tion

Hardware User’s Manual

NX-series NX502 CPU Unit
Software User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
Instructions Reference Manual
NJ/NX-series
Motion Control User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
Motion Control Instructions Reference Manual
NJ/NX-series
Built-in EtherCAT Port User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
Built-in EtherNet/IP Port User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
EtherNet/IP Unit User’s Manual
NX-series
OPC UA User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit
FINS Function User’s Manual
NX-series CPU Unit
User’s Manual
NJ/NX-series Database Connection CPU Units
Automation Playback User’s Manual
NX-series CPU Unit
Troubleshooting Manual
NJ/NX-series
Purpose of use

Writing the user program

Using motion control l l
Using EtherCAT l
Using EtherNet/IP l l
Using OPC UA l
l l
Using FINS l
Using the database connection serv-
l
ice
Using automation playback l
Programming error processing l
Testing operation and debugging
Using motion control l
Using EtherCAT l
Using EtherNet/IP l l
Using OPC UA l l
Using FINS l
Using the database connection serv-
l
ice
Using automation playback l
Learning about error management and
r r r r l
corrections*1
Maintenance
Using motion control l
l
Using EtherCAT l
Using EtherNet/IP l l
*1. Refer to the NJ/NX-series Troubleshooting Manual (Cat. No. W503) for the error management concepts and the error
items. However, refer to the manuals that are indicated with triangles for details on errors corresponding to the prod-
ucts with the manuals that are indicated with triangles.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 3

Manual Structure

Manual Structure

Page Structure
The following page structure is used in this manual.

4 Installation and Wiring Level 1 heading

Level 2 heading
Level 2 heading 4-3 Mounting Units Level 3 heading
Gives the current
Level 3 heading 4-3-1 Connecting Controller Components headings.
The Units that make up an NJ-series Controller can be connected simply by pressing the Units together
and locking the sliders by moving them toward the back of the Units. The End Cover is connected in the
same way to the Unit on the far right side of the Controller.

A step in a procedure 1 Join the Units so that the connectors fit exactly.

Hook Hook holes

Indicates a procedure. Connector

4-3 Mo u n t i n g U n i t s
4 Page tab
2 Gives the number

4-3-1 Connecting Controller Components

The yellow sliders at the top and bottom of each Unit lock the Units together. Move the sliders
toward the back of the Units as shown below until they click into place. of the main section.
Move the sliders toward the back
until they lock into place.

Lock

Release

Slider

Precautions for Correct Use

Special information The sliders on the tops and bottoms of the Power Supply Unit, CPU Unit, I/O Units, Special I/O
Units, and CPU Bus Units must be completely locked (until they click into place) after connecting
Icons indicate the adjacent Unit connectors.
precautions, additional
information, or reference
information.

Manual name NJ-series CPU Unit Hardware User’s Manual (W500) 4-9

This illustration is provided only as a sample. It may not literally appear in this manual.

4 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Manual Structure

Special Information
Special information in this manual is classified as follows:

Precautions for Safe Use

Precautions on what to do and what not to do to ensure safe usage of the product.

Precautions for Correct Use

Precautions on what to do and what not to do to ensure proper operation and performance.

Additional Information
Additional information to read as required.
This information is provided to increase understanding or make operation easier.

Version Information
Information on differences in specifications and functionality for Controller with different unit versions
and for different versions of the Sysmac Studio is given.

Precaution on Terminology
In this manual, "download" refers to transferring data from the Sysmac Studio to the physical Control-
ler and "upload" refers to transferring data from the physical Controller to the Sysmac Studio.
For the Sysmac Studio, "synchronization" is used to both "upload" and "download" data. Here,
"synchronize" means to automatically compare the data for the Sysmac Studio on the computer with
the data in the physical Controller and transfer the data in the direction that is specified by the user.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 5

Manual Structure

6 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Sections in this Manual

Sections in this Manual

2
1 Overview of Automation Playback
3

2 Collecting Variable Data

4

3 Executing Playback
5

Checking Program Behavior

4 using Playback
6

Checking Time Series Variable Values A

5 and Videos Using Playback

I
6 Troubleshooting

A Appendices

I Index

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 7

CONTENTS

CONTENTS
Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1
Intended Audience...........................................................................................................................................1
Applicable Products .........................................................................................................................................1

Relevant Manuals..................................................................................................... 2

Manual Structure...................................................................................................... 4
Page Structure.................................................................................................................................................4
Special Information ..........................................................................................................................................5
Precaution on Terminology ..............................................................................................................................5

Sections in this Manual ........................................................................................... 7

Terms and Conditions Agreement........................................................................ 11

Warranty, Limitations of Liability .................................................................................................................... 11
Application Considerations ............................................................................................................................12
Disclaimers ....................................................................................................................................................12
Statement of security responsibilities for assumed use cases and against threats....................................... 13

Safety Precautions................................................................................................. 14

Precautions for Safe Use ...................................................................................... 15

Precautions for Correct Use ................................................................................. 16

Regulations and Standards .................................................................................. 17

Versions .................................................................................................................. 18
Unit Versions of CPU Units and Sysmac Studio Versions .............................................................................18

Related Manuals..................................................................................................... 19

Terminology............................................................................................................ 20

Revision History..................................................................................................... 21

Section 1 Overview of Automation Playback

1-1 Features of Automation Playback ........................................................................................1-2
1-2 System Configuration for Automation Playback ................................................................1-3
1-3 Flow of Using Automation Playback....................................................................................1-4

Section 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-1 Specifications of Variable Data Collection ..........................................................................2-2
2-1-1 Variables to Collect......................................................................................................................2-2
2-1-2 Upper Limit of Variable Data to Collect .......................................................................................2-3
2-1-3 Sampling Operation of Variable Data ..........................................................................................2-3
2-2 Enabling Variable Data Collection........................................................................................2-5
2-2-1 Procedure for Enabling Variable Data Collection ........................................................................2-5

8 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 CONTENTS

2-2-2 Setting for Enabling Variable Data Collection..............................................................................2-6

2-3 Configuring the Setting to Back Up the Project for Playback ...........................................2-7
2-3-1 Conditions That Must Be Met to Back Up the Project .................................................................2-7
2-3-2 Procedure for Configuring the Setting to Back Up the Project ....................................................2-7
2-3-3 Setting Item for Project Backup...................................................................................................2-8
2-3-4 Specifications of Project Backup Data ........................................................................................2-8
2-4 Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage Space Gets Low .....................2-10
2-4-1 Types of Operation Specification Methods When Available Data Storage Space Gets Low ....2-10
2-4-2 Procedure for Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage Space Gets Low.........2-10
2-4-3 Settings for Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage Space Gets Low ............ 2-11
2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Variable Data .............................................................2-13
2-5-1 Setting How to Collect Variable Data ........................................................................................2-13
2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs ........................................................................................2-16
2-6 Additional Information about Automation Playback Settings .........................................2-24

Section 3 Executing Playback

3-1 Copying Playback Data to a Computer................................................................................3-2
3-1-1 How to Copy Playback Data to a Computer................................................................................3-2
3-1-2 Procedure for Using the Sysmac Studio Function to Copy Variable Logs to a Computer...........3-2
3-2 Starting Playback...................................................................................................................3-4
3-2-1 Procedure for Starting Playback .................................................................................................3-4
3-2-2 Items in the Start Playback Dialog Box .......................................................................................3-5
3-3 Restoring the Project When There Is No Project Corresponding to the Variable Log ....3-8
3-3-1 Procedure for Restoring the Project File from Playback Data.....................................................3-8
3-4 Ending the Playback..............................................................................................................3-9
3-4-1 Procedure for Ending the Playback.............................................................................................3-9

Section 4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-1 Playing Playback Data...........................................................................................................4-2
4-1-1 Procedure for Playing Playback Data .........................................................................................4-2
4-1-2 Items in the Playback Control Dialog Box ...................................................................................4-3
4-2 Displaying the Ladder Program to Check with Playback...................................................4-4
4-2-1 Procedure for Displaying the Ladder Program to Check with Playback......................................4-4
4-3 Displaying the ST Program to Check with Playback ..........................................................4-5
4-3-1 Procedure for Displaying the ST Program to Check with Playback ............................................4-5
4-4 Displaying the Variable Values to Check with Playback ....................................................4-6
4-4-1 Procedure for Displaying the Variable Values to Check with Playback .......................................4-6
4-5 Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback ........................................................4-7
4-5-1 Procedure for Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback...........................................4-7
4-5-2 Items in the Search Playback Data Tab Page .............................................................................4-8
4-6 Restrictions during Execution of Playback....................................................................... 4-11

Section 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Us-

ing Playback
5-1 Playback Chart .......................................................................................................................5-2
5-1-1 Applications of the Playback Chart .............................................................................................5-2
5-1-2 Procedure for Starting the Playback Chart..................................................................................5-2
5-1-3 Procedure for Exiting the Playback Chart ...................................................................................5-3
5-1-4 Overview of the Playback Chart Window ....................................................................................5-3

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 9

CONTENTS

5-1-5 Synchronization between the Playback Chart and the Program Monitoring Display ..................5-4
5-1-6 Playback Chart Toolbar Items and Mouse Operations ................................................................5-4
5-2 Checking Variable Values on the Time Series Variable Graph in the Playback Chart.....5-6
5-2-1 Procedure for Displaying a Time Series Variable Graph .............................................................5-6
5-2-2 Items on the Time Series Variable Graph ...................................................................................5-6
5-2-3 Context Menu Items for the Time Series Variable Graph ............................................................5-8
5-3 Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart ..................................................5-9
5-3-1 Variables That You Can Add to the Playback Chart ....................................................................5-9
5-3-2 Procedure for Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart .....................................5-9
5-3-3 Procedure for Saving the Variable List Displayed in the Playback Chart ..................................5-10
5-3-4 Procedure for Restoring the Saved Variable List ......................................................................5-10
5-3-5 Items on the Variable Selection Dialog Box ..............................................................................5-10
5-3-6 Procedures for Adding Variables Selected in the Program Editor to the Playback Chart ......... 5-11
5-4 Displaying Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare in the Playback Chart ...........5-13
5-4-1 Definition of Data to Compare ...................................................................................................5-13
5-4-2 Procedure for Selecting the Comparison Target Data File to Use for Playback........................5-13
5-4-3 Items in the File Selection Dialog Box.......................................................................................5-14
5-4-4 Procedure for Aligning Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare According to the
Waveform Alignment Condition.................................................................................................5-15
5-5 Playing Videos .....................................................................................................................5-17
5-5-1 Video Files That Are Initially Displayed .....................................................................................5-17
5-5-2 Procedures for Playing Videos ..................................................................................................5-17
5-5-3 Items in the Video Playback Window ........................................................................................5-18
5-5-4 Items in the Video Settings Dialog Box .....................................................................................5-19
5-6 Configuring the Automation Playback Option Settings...................................................5-20
5-6-1 Procedure for Configuring the Automation Playback Option Settings.......................................5-20
5-6-2 Items for Automation Playback Option Setting..........................................................................5-20

Section 6 Troubleshooting
6-1 Overview of Troubleshooting ...............................................................................................6-2
6-2 Troubleshooting for Variable Data Collection .....................................................................6-3
6-2-1 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Not Output................................................................................6-3
6-2-2 What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured in Variable Logs.......................................6-3
6-2-3 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Shorter Than the Set Time.......................................................6-6
6-3 Checking Information on Sampling for Automation Playback ..........................................6-8
6-3-1 Checking the Operation Status of Automation Playback ............................................................6-8
6-3-2 Checking the Number of Variables to Use in Program POUs and the Memory Usage.............6-10

Appendices
A-1 State Transitions ................................................................................................................... A-2
A-1-1 State Transitions for Automation Playback Function.................................................................. A-2
A-1-2 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Pre/post Trigger Method ...................... A-3
A-1-3 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Start/Save Trigger Method................... A-4
A-1-4 Special Notes on State Transition of Variable Log Output ......................................................... A-6
A-2 Precautions for Online Editing ............................................................................................ A-7
A-3 List of System-defined Variables for Automation Playback ............................................. A-8
A-4 Specifications of Playback Data.......................................................................................... A-9
A-5 Version Information for Automation Playback Functions............................................... A-10

Index

10 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Terms and Conditions Agreement

Terms and Conditions Agreement

Warranty, Limitations of Liability

Warranties

l Exclusive Warranty
Omron’s exclusive warranty is that the Products will be free from defects in materials and work-
manship for a period of twelve months from the date of sale by Omron (or such other period ex-
pressed in writing by Omron). Omron disclaims all other warranties, express or implied.

l Limitations
OMRON MAKES NO WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ABOUT
NON-INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OF
THE PRODUCTS. BUYER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT ALONE HAS DETERMINED THAT THE
PRODUCTS WILL SUITABLY MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THEIR INTENDED USE.

Omron further disclaims all warranties and responsibility of any type for claims or expenses based
on infringement by the Products or otherwise of any intellectual property right.

l Buyer Remedy
Omron’s sole obligation hereunder shall be, at Omron’s election, to (i) replace (in the form originally
shipped with Buyer responsible for labor charges for removal or replacement thereof) the non-com-
plying Product, (ii) repair the non-complying Product, or (iii) repay or credit Buyer an amount equal
to the purchase price of the non-complying Product; provided that in no event shall Omron be re-
sponsible for warranty, repair, indemnity or any other claims or expenses regarding the Products
unless Omron’s analysis confirms that the Products were properly handled, stored, installed and
maintained and not subject to contamination, abuse, misuse or inappropriate modification. Return
of any Products by Buyer must be approved in writing by Omron before shipment. Omron Compa-
nies shall not be liable for the suitability or unsuitability or the results from the use of Products in
combination with any electrical or electronic components, circuits, system assemblies or any other
materials or substances or environments. Any advice, recommendations or information given orally
or in writing, are not to be construed as an amendment or addition to the above warranty.

See http://www.omron.com/global/ or contact your Omron representative for published information.

Limitation on Liability; Etc

OMRON COMPANIES SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CON-
SEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSS OF PROFITS OR PRODUCTION OR COMMERCIAL LOSS IN ANY

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 11

Terms and Conditions Agreement

WAY CONNECTED WITH THE PRODUCTS, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM IS BASED IN CONTRACT,
WARRANTY, NEGLIGENCE OR STRICT LIABILITY.

Further, in no event shall liability of Omron Companies exceed the individual price of the Product on
which liability is asserted.

Application Considerations

Suitability of Use
Omron Companies shall not be responsible for conformity with any standards, codes or regulations
which apply to the combination of the Product in the Buyer’s application or use of the Product. At Buy-
er’s request, Omron will provide applicable third party certification documents identifying ratings and
limitations of use which apply to the Product. This information by itself is not sufficient for a complete
determination of the suitability of the Product in combination with the end product, machine, system, or
other application or use. Buyer shall be solely responsible for determining appropriateness of the par-
ticular Product with respect to Buyer’s application, product or system. Buyer shall take application re-
sponsibility in all cases.

NEVER USE THE PRODUCT FOR AN APPLICATION INVOLVING SERIOUS RISK TO LIFE OR
PROPERTY OR IN LARGE QUANTITIES WITHOUT ENSURING THAT THE SYSTEM AS A WHOLE
HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO ADDRESS THE RISKS, AND THAT THE OMRON PRODUCT(S) IS
PROPERLY RATED AND INSTALLED FOR THE INTENDED USE WITHIN THE OVERALL EQUIP-
MENT OR SYSTEM.

Programmable Products
Omron Companies shall not be responsible for the user’s programming of a programmable Product, or
any consequence thereof.

Disclaimers

Performance Data
Data presented in Omron Company websites, catalogs and other materials is provided as a guide for
the user in determining suitability and does not constitute a warranty. It may represent the result of
Omron’s test conditions, and the user must correlate it to actual application requirements. Actual per-
formance is subject to the Omron’s Warranty and Limitations of Liability.

Change in Specifications
Product specifications and accessories may be changed at any time based on improvements and oth-
er reasons. It is our practice to change part numbers when published ratings or features are changed,
or when significant construction changes are made. However, some specifications of the Product may

12 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Terms and Conditions Agreement

be changed without any notice. When in doubt, special part numbers may be assigned to fix or estab-
lish key specifications for your application. Please consult with your Omron’s representative at any
time to confirm actual specifications of purchased Product.

Errors and Omissions

Information presented by Omron Companies has been checked and is believed to be accurate; how-
ever, no responsibility is assumed for clerical, typographical or proofreading errors or omissions.

Statement of security responsibilities for assumed use cases and

against threats
OMRON SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE AND/OR LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS, DAMAGE, OR EX-
PENSES DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY RESULTING FROM THE INFECTION OF OMRON PROD-
UCTS, ANY SOFTWARE INSTALLED THEREON OR ANY COMPUTER EQUIPMENT, COMPUTER
PROGRAMS, NETWORKS, DATABASES OR OTHER PROPRIETARY MATERIAL CONNECTED
THERETO BY DISTRIBUTED DENIAL OF SERVICE ATTACK, COMPUTER VIRUSES, OTHER
TECHNOLOGICALLY HARMFUL MATERIAL AND/OR UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS.

It shall be the users sole responsibility to determine and use adequate measures and checkpoints to
satisfy the users particular requirements for (i) antivirus protection, (ii) data input and output, (iii) main-
taining a means for reconstruction of lost data, (iv) preventing Omron Products and/or software instal-
led thereon from being infected with computer viruses and (v) protecting Omron Products from unau-
thorized access.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 13

Safety Precautions

Safety Precautions
Refer to the following manuals for safety precautions.
• NX-series NX502 CPU Unit Hardware User’s Manual (Cat. No. W629)

14 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Precautions for Safe Use

Precautions for Safe Use

Refer to the following manuals for precautions for safe use.
• NX-series NX502 CPU Unit Hardware User’s Manual (Cat. No. W629)

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 15

Precautions for Correct Use

Precautions for Correct Use

Refer to the following manuals for precautions for correct use.
• NX-series NX502 CPU Unit Hardware User’s Manual (Cat. No. W629)

16 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Regulations and Standards

Regulations and Standards

Refer to the following manuals for regulations and standards.
• NX-series NX502 CPU Unit Hardware User’s Manual (Cat. No. W629)

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 17

Versions

Versions
Hardware revisions and unit versions are used to manage the hardware and software in NX-series
Units and EtherCAT slaves.
The hardware revision or unit version is updated each time there is a change in hardware or software
specifications. Even when two Units or EtherCAT slaves have the same model number, they will have
functional or performance differences if they have different hardware revisions or unit versions.

Refer to the following manuals for versions.

• NX-series NX502 CPU Unit Hardware User’s Manual (Cat. No. W629)

Unit Versions of CPU Units and Sysmac Studio Versions

The functions that are supported depend on the unit version of the NX-series CPU Unit. The version of
Sysmac Studio that supports the functions that were added for an upgrade is also required to use
those functions.
Refer to Version Information for NX-series Controllers in the NJ/NX-series CPU Unit Software User’s
Manual (Cat. No. W501) for the relationship between the unit versions of the CPU Units and the Sys-
mac Studio versions, and for the functions that are supported by each unit version.

18 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Related Manuals

Related Manuals
The following are the manuals related to this manual. Use these manuals for reference.

Manual name Cat. No. Model numbers Application Description

NX-series W639 NX502-££££ Using automation Describes automation playback.
CPU Unit playback
Automation Playback
User’s Manual
NX-series W629 NX502-££££ Learning the basic An introduction to the entire NX502 system
NX502 CPU Unit specifications of the is provided along with the following infor-
Hardware NX502 CPU Units, mation on the CPU Unit.
User’s Manual including introductory • Features and system configuration
information, design- • Introduction
ing, installation, and • Part names and functions
maintenance. • General specifications
Mainly hardware in- • Installation and wiring
formation is provided. • Maintenance and inspection
NJ/NX-series CPU Unit W501 NX701-££££ Learning how to pro- The following information is provided on a
Software User’s Manual NX502-££££ gram and set up an Controller built with an NJ/NX-series CPU
NX102-££££ NJ/NX-series CPU Unit.
NX1P2-££££ Unit. • CPU Unit operation
NJ501-££££ Mainly software infor- • CPU Unit features
NJ301-££££ mation is provided. • Initial settings
NJ101-££££ • Programming based on IEC 61131-3
language specifications
NJ/NX-series Instructions W502 NX701-££££ Learning detailed The instructions in the instruction set (IEC
Reference Manual NX502-££££ specifications on the 61131-3 specifications) are described.
NX102-££££ basic instructions of
NX1P2-££££ an NJ/NX-series
NJ501-££££ CPU Unit.
NJ301-££££
NJ101-££££
NJ/NX-series W506 NX701-££££ Using the built-in Information on the built-in EtherNet/IP port
CPU Unit NX502-££££ EtherNet/IP port on is provided.
Built-in EtherNet/IP™ Port NX102-££££ an NJ/NX-series Information is provided on the basic setup,
User’s Manual NX1P2-££££ CPU Unit. tag data links, and other features.
NJ501-££££
NJ301-££££
NJ101-££££
NJ/NX-series W503 NX701-££££ Learning about the Concepts on managing errors that may be
Troubleshooting Manual NX502-££££ errors that may be detected in an NJ/NX-series Controller and
NX102-££££ detected in an information on individual errors are descri-
NX1P2-££££ NJ/NX-series Con- bed.
NJ501-££££ troller.
NJ301-££££
NJ101-££££
Sysmac Studio Version 1 W504 SYSMAC Learning about the Describes the operating procedures of the
Operation Manual -SE2£££ operating procedures Sysmac Studio.
and functions of the
Sysmac Studio.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 19

Terminology

Terminology
Term Description
automation playback A function that captures and records variable data as well as video data
while the program in the Controller is running, and reproduces these data
on monitor displays in the Sysmac Studio to allow the user to analyze and
identify the causes of problems.
variable data collection The act or function of collecting variable data that is used in the program
in the Controller according to the collection target and time set by the
user.
variable log Variable data that is collected and recorded in the storage.
sampling The operation of the CPU Unit to collect variable data.
backup project Backing up the project as a file when variable data is collected.
playback data Variable data and video data collected and recorded for automation play-
back. In a broad sense, playback data includes backup data of the
project.
playback Reproducing recorded data on monitor displays in the Sysmac Studio.
playback chart A window that displays the time series variable graph and plays videos
during playback.
time series variable graph A graph that displays variable data in a time series.
restoration Reading saved data into the Sysmac Studio so that the Sysmac Studio
can handle it as data.

20 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Revision History

Revision History
A manual revision code appears as a suffix to the catalog number on the front and back covers of the
manual.

Cat. No. W639-E1-01

Revision code

Revision
Date Revised content
code
01 July 2023 Original production

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 21

Revision History

22 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 1 1

Overview of Automation Playback

Automation playback is a solution that integrates three activities that you perform in
system maintenance.
It provides functionality that integrates three system maintenance activities, which are
recording, reproduction, and analysis.

1-1 Features of Automation Playback ................................................................ 1-2

1-2 System Configuration for Automation Playback......................................... 1-3
1-3 Flow of Using Automation Playback ............................................................ 1-4

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 1-1

1 Overview of Automation Playback

1-1 Features of Automation Playback

Automation playback allows you to reproduce the variables used in the program in the Controller and
the captured videos on monitor displays in the Sysmac Studio and identify the causes of problems.
Automation playback has the following features:

Collecting and recording of data to use for identifying the causes of problems
• Collect and record variable data used in the Controller’s control program in time series.
• You can achieve a system that captures and records videos of on-site manufacturing linked to the
operation of the control program in the Controller.
• Back up the project for data collection.

Reproducing the recorded data in the Sysmac Studio

• Reproduce the operation of the control program in the Controller on the Sysmac Studio, based on
the recorded data.

Analyzing the causes of problems in the Sysmac Studio

• Facilitate the identification of the causes of problems through analysis of the control program in the
Sysmac Studio.

You can use automation playback with the recorded variable data for the Controller to check how the
control program in the Controller operated. You can also use the recorded data to reproduce the oper-
ation of the control program in the Controller without the presence of the designer of the control pro-
gram at the location where the Controller is operating, which enables earlier analysis of problems that
occur at a remote location in comparison with when you visit the site.
In addition, you can use a network camera to capture video, and play the video together with variable
data in automation playback to check the correspondence between the operation of the control pro-
gram and the scenes of on-site manufacturing.
Since the project can be backed up at the start of variable data collection, you can import data on a
different computer than the one on which you collected the variable data to reproduce the operation.

1-2 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 1 Overview of Automation Playback

1-2 System Configuration for

1-2 System Configuration for Automation

Automation Playback
Playback
The system configuration consists of a Controller, a network camera, a network storage, and the Sys-
mac Studio.
1
(C) Sysmac Studio (D) Network storage

Ethernet or Video data Video data

EtherNet/IP

Variable log Instructions for

capturing videos

(B) NX-series CPU Unit (E) Network camera

POWER

PORT2

(A) SD Memory Card

Configuration
Symbol Description
element
A SD Memory This is mounted on the CPU Unit.
Card • Records variable logs.
• Stores a backup of the project at the start of variable data collection if you con-
figure the setting to back up the project in the Automation Playback Settings.
B NX-series CPU • Collects variable data and records it as a variable log on an SD Memory Card.
Unit • Gives instructions for capturing videos to the network camera.
C Sysmac Studio • Reads the variable logs recorded in the NX-series CPU Unit and the video data
recorded in the network storage.*1
• Executes playback using the read data to analyze the causes of problems.
D Network storage • Stores video data captured by the network camera.
E Network camera • Captures videos of on-site manufacturing according to instructions from the NX-
series CPU Unit.*2
• Stores the captured video data in the network storage.
*1. You can read the variable logs directly by removing the SD Memory Card from the CPU Unit and then
mounting it to the computer on which the Sysmac Studio is running.
*2. Instructions for capturing videos are given in the program. You can download sample programming for cap-
turing videos from ★★★TBD http://xxxxx ★★★. Or contact our sales representative.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 1-3

1 Overview of Automation Playback

1-3 Flow of Using Automation Playback

The flow of automation playback consists of offline design, CPU Unit operations, and offline analysis.

Collection Target Setting

Offline design

Collection Method Setting

Testing
Operation
Is expected data No
collected?
CPU Unit
operations Yes

Actual Operation
Data Collection and Recording

Reading of Recorded Data

Reproduction and Analysis of Problem Situations

Offline analysis

Correction

Process Overview Reference

Collection Target Setting Set what data should be collected. 2-5 Setting How to Collect
Collection Method Setting Set under what conditions the data should be collect- and Output Variable Data
ed. on page 2-13
Testing Operation Check if data that ensures the set collection time ---
length and data concurrency can be collected and if
the collected data meets the expected applications,
and adjust the settings.
Actual Operation Collect data for reproduction and analysis. ---
Reading of Recorded Da- Read the collected data in the Sysmac Studio. Use 3-1 Copying Playback Da-
ta one of the following methods. ta to a Computer on page
• When online with the Controller 3-2
The Sysmac Studio reads the variable logs from the 3-2 Starting Playback on
SD Memory Card mounted on the Controller. page 3-4
• When offline with the Controller
Mount the SD Memory Card that contains the varia-
ble logs to a computer on which the Sysmac Studio
is running, and then directly read the variable logs.
Reproduction and Analy- Reproduce the operation of the user program in the Section 4 Checking Pro-
sis of Problem Situations Sysmac Studio. Then, analyze the causes of the prob- gram Behavior using
lem. Playback on page 4-1
Section 5 Checking Time
Series Variable Values
and Videos Using Play-
back on page 5-1

1-4 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 1 Overview of Automation Playback

1-3 Flow of Using Automation

Process Overview Reference
Correction Correct the program. Section 6 Troubleshoot-
ing on page 6-1

Playback
1

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 1-5

1 Overview of Automation Playback

1-6 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 2
2
Collecting Variable Data
Set up automation playback and enable the function to collect variable data.

2-1 Specifications of Variable Data Collection .................................................. 2-2

2-1-1 Variables to Collect.......................................................................................... 2-2
2-1-2 Upper Limit of Variable Data to Collect ........................................................... 2-3
2-1-3 Sampling Operation of Variable Data .............................................................. 2-3
2-2 Enabling Variable Data Collection ................................................................ 2-5
2-2-1 Procedure for Enabling Variable Data Collection ............................................ 2-5
2-2-2 Setting for Enabling Variable Data Collection.................................................. 2-6
2-3 Configuring the Setting to Back Up the Project for Playback.................... 2-7
2-3-1 Conditions That Must Be Met to Back Up the Project ..................................... 2-7
2-3-2 Procedure for Configuring the Setting to Back Up the Project ........................ 2-7
2-3-3 Setting Item for Project Backup....................................................................... 2-8
2-3-4 Specifications of Project Backup Data ............................................................ 2-8
2-4 Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage Space
Gets Low ........................................................................................................ 2-10
2-4-1 Types of Operation Specification Methods When Available Data Stor-
age Space Gets Low ..................................................................................... 2-10
2-4-2 Procedure for Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage
Space Gets Low ............................................................................................ 2-10
2-4-3 Settings for Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage
Space Gets Low .............................................................................................2-11
2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Variable Data ..................................... 2-13
2-5-1 Setting How to Collect Variable Data ............................................................ 2-13
2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs ............................................................ 2-16
2-6 Additional Information about Automation Playback Settings ................. 2-24

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 2-1

2 Collecting Variable Data

2-1 Specifications of Variable Data Col-

lection
This section provides the specifications of variable data collection.

2-1-1 Variables to Collect

The variables to collect are local variables and external variables defined in program POUs and func-
tion block POUs used in program POUs.
The following table shows whether or not it is possible to collect variables with automation playback
function.

Variable Collection
User-defined variables Possible
Semi-user-defined varia- Device variables Device variables for Possible
bles EtherCAT slaves
Device variables for NX Possible
Units
Device variables for X Possible
Bus Units
Cam data variables Possible
System-defined variables System-defined variables for PLC Function Module Possible*1
System-defined variables MC Common Variable Not possible
for motion control Axis Variables*2 Possible only for specific
members
Axes Group Variables Not possible
System-defined variables for EtherNet/IP Possible
System-defined variables for EtherCAT master Possible
System-defined variables for NX bus Possible
System-defined variables for X Bus Possible
*1. P_CY, P_First_RunMode, and P_First_Run cannot be collected.
*2. Axis Variables will be collected when Include is selected for Axis variable sampling in the sampling set-
ting. Refer to Settings for Variable Data Collection on page 2-15.
Note also that the axis variables to be collected are limited to the following.
• Position and velocity of axis command values and axis current values (member names: Cmd.Pos,
Cmd.Vel, Act.Pos, Act.Vel)
• Members that are used in program POUs

The following table shows whether or not it is possible to collect local variables and external variables
from POUs.

POU type
Type of variable
Program FB FUN
Local variables Internal variables Possible Possible Not possible
Input variables --- Possible*1 Not possible
Output variables --- Possible*1 Not possible
In-out variables --- Not possible Not possible

2-2 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-1 Specifications of Variable Data Collec-

POU type
Type of variable
Program FB FUN
External variables Possible Possible Not possible
*1. Input variables and output variables of the ANY data type cannot be collected.

2-1-2 Upper Limit of Variable Data to Collect

The following table shows the upper limits of variables that can be sampled.

tion
Item Upper limit
Number of variables 60,000 variables
2
Total size of variable data 480,000 bytes

2-1-2 Upper Limit of Variable Data to Collect

Precautions for Correct Use

• The above conditions apply to both the primary periodic task and periodic tasks.
• If you use structure variables or array variables, the total size of variable data may exceed
480,000 bytes even when the number of collection target variables is less than 60,000. In this
case, reduce the number of variables to collect.

2-1-3 Sampling Operation of Variable Data

Sampling of variable data occurs in unused time of tasks, in processing separate from the tasks.

When Only the Primary Periodic Task Is Executed

Sampling of variables occurs after execution of motion control in the primary periodic task that is exe-
cuted every primary period.
Execution
priority Primary period Primary period
High

Primary IO UPG MC SMP IO UPG MC SMP

periodic task

System
SS
services

Low

IO : I/O refreshing (data outputs and then data inputs)

UPG : User program execution
MC : Motion control execution
SMP : Variable sampling processing
SS : System service execution

When the Primary Periodic Task, Priority-16 Periodic Task, and Priority-17 Periodic Task Are
Executed
It is not possible to sample variables from program POUs assigned to more than one task at the same
time. Variables assigned to the primary periodic task are sampled on a priority basis, while variables
assigned to the periodic task are sampled when variables assigned to the primary periodic task are
not sampled.
1. Sampling of variables to be used in the program POU assigned to the primary periodic task occurs
after the primary periodic task is executed every primary period.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 2-3

2 Collecting Variable Data

2. Sampling of variables to be used in the program POU assigned to the priority-16 periodic task and
priority-17 periodic task occurs after the priority-16 periodic task is executed and when (1) is not
executed every task period.

Precautions for Correct Use

When several periodic tasks with different execution priorities are used, after execution of the
periodic task with the highest execution priority, sampling of variables used in the program
POUs assigned to all periodic tasks occurs. For this reason, concurrency is not ensured for var-
iable log data for variables used in the program POUs assigned to other than the periodic task
with the highest execution priority.

Execution Primary period Primary period Primary period Primary period Primary period
priority
High Primary
periodic task IO UPG MC IO UPG MC IO UPG MC IO UPG MC IO UPG MC

Task Task Task Task Task

execution execution execution execution execution
is completed. is completed. is completed. is completed. is completed.
Sampling of variables assigned to
primary periodic task
SMP SMP SMP SMP SMP (1)

Priority-8
UPG
event task

Task
execution
is completed.

Task period

Priority-16
UPG UPG
periodic task
Task
execution
is completed. Task period

Priority-17
UPG
periodic task

Task
execution
Sampling of variables assigned to priority-16 is completed.
periodic task and priority-17 periodic task
SMP SMP (2)

System
SS
Low services

IO : I/O refreshing (data outputs and then data inputs)

UPG : User program execution
MC : Motion control execution
SMP : Variable sampling processing
SS : System service execution

Precautions for Correct Use

Variable data that is sampled by the automation playback function is based on the values of the
variables after execution of the task. This means that the values of variables that you can check
when the playback operation is performed with the Sysmac Studio are also the values after ex-
ecution of the task. Even for internal variables that are used as logical conditions and the values
of which are changed in the same program POU, or external variables that are input variables
of the program POU, the values after execution of the task are displayed during playback oper-
ation, which may not match the values at the start of execution of the program POU. Keep this
in mind when you check the values of variables during playback operation.

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-2 Enabling Variable Data Collection

2-2 Enabling Variable Data Collection
To collect variable data for automation playback, configure the settings to use automation playback.

Precautions for Correct Use

If you use the automation playback function, design the tasks in the Controller to meet one of
the following so that their operations are not affected.
• If the task period of the primary periodic task is 250 μs, the task execution time ratio is 60%
or less.
• The task period of the primary periodic task is 500 μs or more. 2

2-2-1 Procedure for Enabling Variable Data Collection

2-2-1 Procedure for Enabling Variable Data Collection
When automation playback is enabled, the CPU Unit starts the variable data collection function when
it changes to RUN Mode.
Make sure that the Sysmac Studio and the Controller are offline before you enable variable data col-
lection.

1 Double-click Operation Settings under Configurations and Setup ‒ Controller Setup from
the Multiview Explorer of the Sysmac Studio. Or right-click Operation Settings and select Edit
from the menu.

2 In the Operation Settings view displayed in the Edit pane, click the Automation Playback
Settings button.
The Automation Playback Settings view opens.

3 Select Use for Automation playback in Common Setting.

4 In Collection setting at startup, select the sampling setting to use.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 2-5

2 Collecting Variable Data

5 From the Synchronization window, transfer the Controller Setup to the CPU Unit.

6 Restart the CPU Unit.

2-2-2 Setting for Enabling Variable Data Collection

There is a setting for whether or not to use automation playback.

Item Description Setting range Default

Automation play- Set whether or not to use automation play- Use or Do not use Do not use
back back.
When Use is selected, the sampling of var-
iable data will be performed according to
the sampling setting.
Collection setting at Specify the sampling setting to enable at Collection setting 1 Collection setting 1
startup the startup of the Controller. or Collection setting
2

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-3 Configuring the Setting to Back Up the

2-3 Configuring the Setting to Back Up
the Project for Playback

Project for Playback

To execute playback in the Sysmac Studio without the project on the computer, configure the setting to
back up the project when variable data is collected.

2-3-1 Conditions That Must Be Met to Back Up the Project

If the project is set to back up, the Controller will automatically get the backup file when the operation 2
of automation playback function is started.
When all of the following conditions are met, the Controller will get the backup file for a project.

2-3-1 Conditions That Must Be Met to Back Up the Project

• Project backup is set to back up in the Automation Playback Settings.
Refer to 2-3-2 Procedure for Configuring the Setting to Back Up the Project on page 2-7 for infor-
mation on the setting to back up the project.
• Automation playback function is started. *1
• The project from which to collect variable data is not yet backed up by automation playback.
• Data backup prohibition to the SD Memory Card*2 is set to Do not use.

*1. The status of automation playback function changes from Idle to Run. Refer to A-1-1 State Transitions for Au-
tomation Playback Function on page A-2 for details on the status of automation playback function.
*2. The item Data backup prohibition to the SD Memory Card is located in Security Settings from
Configurations and Setup ‒ Controller Setup ‒ Operation Settings ‒ Basic Settings in the Multiview Ex-
plorer.

2-3-2 Procedure for Configuring the Setting to Back Up the Project

Enable project backup so that the project will be backed up when variable data is collected.
Make sure that the Sysmac Studio and the Controller are offline before you enable project backup.

1 Double-click Operation Settings under Configurations and Setup ‒ Controller Setup from
the Multiview Explorer of the Sysmac Studio. Or right-click Operation Settings and select Edit
from the menu.

2 In the Operation Settings view displayed in the Edit pane, click the Automation Playback
Settings button.
The Automation Playback Settings view opens.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 2-7

2 Collecting Variable Data

3 Select Back up for Project backup in Common Setting.

4 From the Synchronization window, transfer the Controller Setup to the CPU Unit.

5 Restart the CPU Unit.

2-3-3 Setting Item for Project Backup

There is a setting that specifies whether or not to back up project data.

Item Description Setting range Default

Project backup Set whether or not to save the backup file Back up or Do not Back up
to an SD Memory Card at the start of varia- back up
ble data collection.
You can use the backup file when the
project is reproduced.

2-3-4 Specifications of Project Backup Data

The save destination, folder structure, file name, and file format of the project backup file are as shown
in the table below.

Item Description Remarks

Save destination SD Memory Card mounted on the
CPU Unit

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-3 Configuring the Setting to Back Up the

Item Description Remarks
Folder structure \APB\(hash code)\PRJ\ • If the APB folder does not exist
in the file output destination, an
APB folder and lower folders will

Project for Playback

be created automatically when
sampling of variables starts.
• If you change the folder struc-
ture, you will not be able to read
the backup data in the Sysmac
Studio. When you move files, do
not change the APB folder and
lower folders in the folder struc- 2
ture.
• A hash code consists of a 16-

2-3-4 Specifications of Project Backup Data

byte string. You can get it with
the GetPrgHashCode (Get Pro-
gram Hash Code) instruction.
File name NXBackup.dat
File format Original format

Additional Information

The project backup file is the same as the backup file that you back up on an SD Memory Card.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 2-9

2 Collecting Variable Data

2-4 Specifying the Operation When Avail-

able Data Storage Space Gets Low
Specify whether to issue an event for notification when the available data storage space gets low and
how much available space to maintain.

2-4-1 Types of Operation Specification Methods When Available Data

Storage Space Gets Low
There are two types of settings, i.e., Ensure free space in SD Memory Card that specifies how much
available storage space to maintain and Alert for low space in SD Memory Card that specifies at
what level to issue an event when the available data storage space gets low.

Type Description
Ensure free space in SD Controls the available storage space for data related to automation playback so
Memory Card that it does not fall below the amount set for this item.
If the available storage space for data related to automation playback is expected
to fall below the amount set for this item when a new variable log file is output, the
Controller automatically deletes files with older timestamps in the destination APB
and lower folders to secure available space.
If the Controller performs control based on this setting, the Variable Log Overwrit-
ten event (95760000 hex) will occur.
Alert for low space in SD This is a function that warns of a situation where the available storage space in the
Memory Card destination storage is getting low by means of an event.
Generates the Capacity Warning of Variable Log Save Destination event
(64050000 hex) when the available data storage space for data related to automa-
tion playback falls below the amount set for this item. You can change the event
level to Minor Fault although the default setting is Observation.

2-4-2 Procedure for Specifying the Operation When Available Data

Storage Space Gets Low
Set the operation to perform when the available data storage space gets low in Ensure free space in
SD Memory Card and Alert for low space in SD Memory Card.
To change the operation settings when the available data storage space gets low, the Sysmac Studio
and the Controller must be offline.

1 Double-click Operation Settings under Configurations and Setup ‒ Controller Setup from
the Multiview Explorer of the Sysmac Studio. Or right-click Operation Settings and select Edit
from the menu.

2 In the Operation Settings view displayed in the Edit pane, click the Automation Playback
Settings button.
The Automation Playback Settings view opens.

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-4 Specifying the Operation When Available

Data Storage Space Gets Low
2

2-4-3 Settings for Specifying the Operation When Available Data Storage Space Gets Low
3 In Common Setting, select Yes for Ensure free space in SD Memory Card and Alert for
low space in SD Memory Card.

4 For each item for which you selected Yes in step 3, enter the size of available space to specify
in Ensured free space.

5 From the Synchronization window, transfer the settings to the CPU Unit.

6 Restart the CPU Unit.

2-4-3 Settings for Specifying the Operation When Available Data Stor-
age Space Gets Low
There are two settings, i.e., Ensure free space in SD Memory Card and Alert for low space in SD
Memory Card.

Item Description Setting range Default

Ensure free space in Select whether to set available storage Yes or No No
SD Memory Card space to secure available space on the
SD Memory Card.
Ensured free space Set the available storage space to se- None, or numeric None
cure. value between
When this item is not specified, the Con- 1,024 and 4,096
troller will delete old files to secure avail- (MB).
able space if the storage space is expect-
ed to get low.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 2-11

2 Collecting Variable Data

Item Description Setting range Default

Alert for low space in Select whether to warn the user when the Yes or No No
SD Memory Card available space on the SD Memory Card
gets low.
Ensured free space Set the threshold of available storage None, or numeric None
space at which to issue a warning. value between
When not set, you will not be warned if 1,024 and 4,096
available storage space gets low. (MB).

Precautions for Correct Use

• It is not possible to set the value of Alert for low space in SD Memory Card to be less than
or equal to the value of Ensure free space in SD Memory Card.
• If a value that exceeds the total storage capacity is set for both Ensure free space in SD
Memory Card and Alert for low space in SD Memory Card, the Controller will operate as if
they were not set.

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Varia-

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output
Variable Data
Set the variable data to collect and the method to output variable data to a variable log.
You can create up to two variable log output settings per collection setting.

ble Data
You can create up to two sampling settings. However, you can enable only one sampling setting.
Even in RUN Mode, you can use the APB_ChangeSamplingSettings instruction to switch the sampling
setting to use in the program. Even if you perform any of the following operations after the sampling
setting to use is switched with the APB_ChangeSamplingSettings instruction, the setting after switch- 2
ing remains enabled.
• Restart the Controller.

2-5-1 Setting How to Collect Variable Data

• Restore the Controller with the backed up project data after switching the setting.

2-5-1 Setting How to Collect Variable Data

Set the variable data to collect and the collection behavior.

Procedure for Setting How to Collect Variable Data

Set the variable data to collect and the behavior when the execution of sampling exceeds the task pe-
riod.
To change the setting of how to collect variable data, the Sysmac Studio and the Controller must be
offline.

1 Double-click Operation Settings under Configurations and Setup ‒ Controller Setup from
the Multiview Explorer of the Sysmac Studio. Or right-click Operation Settings and select Edit
from the menu.

2 In the Operation Settings view displayed in the Edit pane, click the Automation Playback
Settings button.
The Automation Playback Settings view opens.

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2 Collecting Variable Data

3 Click Collection Setting 1 or Collection Setting 2.

You can have two collection settings. Collection Setting 1 and Collection Setting 2 have the
same setting items.
The collection setting is opened.

4 Select the collection target.

By default, all selectable POUs are selected. If the execution of sampling exceeds the task pe-
riod in testing operation, reduce the collection target by clearing the check boxes.

Selecting a check box in the upper level of the tree also selects all check boxes in the lower
levels. Similarly, clearing a check box in the upper level of the tree also clears all items in the
lower levels.

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Varia-

5 Select whether to include axis variables in the sampling target.

6 Select the behavior when the execution of sampling exceeds the task period.

ble Data
7 From the Synchronization window, transfer the settings to the CPU Unit.
2
8 Restart the CPU Unit.

2-5-1 Setting How to Collect Variable Data

Settings for Variable Data Collection
There are settings that specify the sampling setting name, operation after the task period is exceeded,
and collection target variables.

Item Description Setting range Default

Sampling setting Set the name of the sampling setting. 1-byte to 31-byte
name string (not including
the terminating
NULL character).
No duplicates are
allowed between
Sampling Setting 1
and Sampling Set-
ting 2.
Refer to Restrictions
on Characters in the
Sampling Setting
Name on page
2-15 for usable
characters.
Axis variable sam- Set whether to include axis variables in the Include or Do not in- Include
pling sampling target. clude
Operation after task Select the behavior of variable data collec- Continue or Stop Continue
period is exceeded tion when the execution of sampling ex-
ceeds the task period.
If you select Continue, it may happen that
concurrency cannot be ensured for varia-
ble data that will be collected.*1
Collection target Select the program POUs from which to All program POUs All program POUs
collect variable data. excluding event excluding event
tasks tasks
*1. Refer to 6-2-2 What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured in Variable Logs on page 6-3 for what
to do when concurrency of variable data cannot be ensured.

l Restrictions on Characters in the Sampling Setting Name

There are restrictions on characters that can be used in the sampling setting name.

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2 Collecting Variable Data

Item Description
Usable characters 0 to 9, A to Z, a to z
$%'-_@!`()~=#&+^[]
{ } , . ; and single-byte kana
Single-byte space (Not allowed at beginning and end of string)
Unusable charac- • Reserved words
ters CON, PRN, AUX, CLOCK$, NUL, COM0, COM1, COM2, COM3, COM4, COM5,
COM6, COM7, COM8, COM9, LPT0, LPT1, LPT2, LPT3, LPT4, LPT5, LPT6,
LPT7, LPT8, LPT9
• Multi-byte characters
Case sensitivity Not case sensitive
Maximum string 31 bytes
size (without NULL)

2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs

Set the trigger to save a variable log, and the trigger method.
You can create more than one variable log output setting. You can use them for different purposes as
follows.
• Save variable logs for a certain period of time using the pre/post trigger method to analyze unex-
pected problems during system operation.
• Save variable logs only when necessary using the start/save trigger method during system design
and debugging.

Once variable log output processing is started by one of the output settings, until the variable log out-
put is completed, variable logs cannot be output by the other output setting. You can check the status
of variable log output with the _APB_LogStatus system-defined variable. The status of variable log
output is as follows.
• After start of variable log output: Storing
• After completion of variable log output: Sampling

The following trigger methods are available for specifying the range of data to be saved in a variable
log.

Trigger method Description

Pre/Post trigger method Outputs the data before and after the trigger changes to TRUE to a variable log.
This method is used, for example, to save and check data before and after occur-
rence of a problem in a variable log.

File save trigger

Range of data to be saved

Pre-trigger Post-trigger
collection time collection time

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Varia-

Trigger method Description
Start/Save trigger method Samples the data after the start trigger changes to TRUE. The data sampled by the
previous start trigger is output to the variable log when the file save trigger changes
to TRUE.
This method is used, for example, in debugging to save and check the data when a
specific condition is satisfied in the variable log.

File save trigger

ble Data
Start trigger Start trigger

Range of data
to be saved

Collection time Collection time 2

2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs

Procedure for Setting How to Output Variable Logs
Configure the detailed settings of the file save trigger and trigger method for variable logs.
To change the setting of how to collect variable data, the Sysmac Studio and the Controller must be
offline.

1 Double-click Operation Settings under Configurations and Setup ‒ Controller Setup from
the Multiview Explorer of the Sysmac Studio. Or right-click Operation Settings and select Edit
from the menu.

2 In the Operation Settings view displayed in the Edit pane, click the Automation Playback
Settings button.
The Automation Playback Settings view opens.

3 Click Collection Setting 1 or Collection Setting 2.

The collection setting is opened.

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2 Collecting Variable Data

You can have two collection settings. Collection Setting 1 and Collection Setting 2 have the
same setting items.

4 In Variable log output settings, click the + button. If you edit output settings that already ex-
ist, click the Edit button for the output setting to edit.

Additional Information

If you delete variable log output settings, select the output setting to delete and click the but-
ton.

The Variable log output settings dialog box is displayed.

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Varia-

ble Data
2

2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs

5 Set each item.
• In File save trigger, click the + button to add a file save trigger.
• To delete file save triggers, select the file save trigger to delete and click the button.

6 Click the OK button.

7 From the Synchronization window, transfer the settings to the CPU Unit.

8 Restart the CPU Unit.

Settings for Variable Log Output

There are settings that specify the setting name, file save trigger, and trigger method.

Precautions for Correct Use

If the same variables and the same condition are set as the file save trigger for more than one
output setting, the trigger condition for the smallest output setting number is assumed to be met
when the file save trigger condition is met.

Item Description Setting range Default

Output setting number This is automatically set to 1 for the 1 or 2 ---
first output setting, and 2 for the The number is
second output setting. automatically
This number is used in the sub- set, and you
script to specify which output set- cannot change
ting is used in the array of the the number.
_APB_LogStatus system-defined
variable.

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2 Collecting Variable Data

Item Description Setting range Default

Setting Name Set the name of the variable log 1-byte to 31- VarLogN
output setting. byte string (not N is the output
including the ter- setting number.
minating NULL
character). No
duplicates are
allowed between
Collection Set-
ting 1 and Col-
lection Setting 2.
Refer to Restric-
tions on Charac-
ters in the Set-
ting Name of
Variable Log
Output on page
2-21 for sup-
ported charac-
ters.
File save trigger Trigger Variable Set the variables to use as the file BOOL variable None
Name save trigger. Up to four variable
names can be set.
Condition Set the condition that must be met Rising or Falling None
for the file save trigger to be estab-
lished
Trigger method Select the method to output the Pre/Post trigger Pre/Post trigger
sampling results of variable data to method or Start/ method
the variable log. Save trigger
method
When Pre/Post Pre-trigger col- Set how much time data should be 1 to 899 20
trigger method lection time [s] output to the variable log before the The maximum
is selected in file save trigger changes to TRUE. value is a value
Trigger method in the range
where the total
value of Pre-trig-
ger collection
time and Post-
trigger collection
time is 900 or
less.
Post-trigger col- Set how much time data should be 1 to 899 10
lection time [s] output to the variable log after the The maximum
file save trigger changes to TRUE. value is a value
in the range
where the total
value of Pre-trig-
ger collection
time and Post-
trigger collection
time is 900 or
less.

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Varia-

Item Description Setting range Default
When Start/ Start trigger Set the variable name to use as the BOOL variable None
Save trigger start trigger.
method is se- Collection time Set how much time data should be 1 to 900 10
lected in Trigger [s] output to the variable log after the
method start trigger changes to TRUE.

ble Data
l Restrictions on Characters in the Setting Name of Variable Log Output
There are restrictions on characters that can be used in the setting name of variable log output.

Item Description
Usable characters 0 to 9, A to Z, a to z 2
$%'-_@!`()~=#&+^[]
{ } , . ; and single-byte kana

2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs

Single-byte space (Not allowed at beginning and end of string)
Unusable charac- • Reserved words
ters CON, PRN, AUX, CLOCK$, NUL, COM0, COM1, COM2, COM3, COM4, COM5,
COM6, COM7, COM8, COM9, LPT0, LPT1, LPT2, LPT3, LPT4, LPT5, LPT6,
LPT7, LPT8, LPT9
• Multi-byte characters
Case sensitivity Not case sensitive
Maximum string 31 bytes
size (without NULL)

Specifications of Variable Log Files

The save destination, folder structure, file name, and file format of variable log files are as shown in
the table below.

Item Description Remarks

Save destination SD Memory Card mounted on the
CPU Unit
Folder structure \APB\(hash code)\(variable log file • If the APB folder does not exist
setting name)\ in the file output destination, an
APB folder and lower folders will
be created automatically when
sampling of variables starts.
• If you change the folder struc-
ture, you will not be able to read
the backup data in the Sysmac
Studio.
• A hash code consists of a 16-
byte string. You can get it with
the GetPrgHashCode (Get Pro-
gram Hash Code) instruction.

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2 Collecting Variable Data

Item Description Remarks

File name VL_YYYYMMDDhhmmss.bin • The time of the oldest data in the
YYYY: Year variable log file is used.
MM: Month For example, if the variable log
DD: Day file has data recorded from
hh: Hours (24-hour notation) 13:45:56 on January 2, 2023, the
mm: Minutes file name is as follows.
ss: Seconds VL_20230102134556.bin
• The time information is based on
the Controller’s clock.
• If you change the file name, the
Sysmac Studio cannot read the
file. Do not change the file name.
File format Original format

Specifications of Variable Log Information Files

The save destination, folder structure, file name, and file format of variable log information files, which
are output simultaneously with variable log files, are shown in the table below.
In a variable log information file, a summary of the variable log file is recorded.

Item Description Remarks

Save destination SD Memory Card mounted on the
CPU Unit
Folder structure \APB\(hash code)\(variable log file • If the APB folder does not exist
setting name)\ in the file output destination, an
APB folder and lower folders will
be created automatically when
sampling of variables starts.
• A hash code consists of a 16-
byte string. You can get it with
the GetPrgHashCode (Get Pro-
gram Hash Code) instruction.
File name VL_YYYYMMDDhhmmss.ini • The time of the oldest data in the
YYYY: Year variable log file is used.
MM: Month For example, if the variable log
DD: Day file has data recorded from
hh: Hours (24-hour notation) 13:45:56 on January 2, 2023, the
mm: Minutes file name is as follows.
ss: Seconds VL_20230102134556.ini
• The time information is based on
the Controller’s clock.
File format Original format

An example of the file contents is given below.

Example of file contents Description

[ControllerInfo]
Version = 1.00 Variable log file version
UnitType = NX502-1500 Model name of the Controller
UnitVersion = 1.63.00 SettingUnitVersion = 1.63.00 Unit version of the Controller
UnitVersion = 1.63.00 SettingUnitVersion = 1.63.00 Project unit version
UnitVersion = 1.63.00 SettingUnitVersion = 1.63.00 Project unit version

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 2 Collecting Variable Data

2-5 Setting How to Collect and Output Varia-

Example of file contents Description
[APBExportLogFileInfo]
HashCode = 00112233 44556677 8899AABB CCDDEEFF Hash code of the project for which the
variable log was collected
TriggerSettingName = VarLog1 Output setting name of the variable log
setting that was processed as a trigger
SettingCollectionTime = 900 Variable data collection time (set value)
CollectionStartTime = 2023-02-04 10:10:40.000000 Time when output of the variable file

ble Data
was started
TriggeredTime = 2023-02-04 10:10:40.000000 Time when the trigger condition was
met

2-5-2 Setting How to Output Variable Logs

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2 Collecting Variable Data

2-6 Additional Information about Automa-

tion Playback Settings
Additional information about automation playback settings is as follows.
Security-related information
• Users with Maintainer or higher authority are allowed to change automation playback settings.
• To meet the security requirements specified for your operational environment, assign access per-
missions so that the appropriate users can check the contents of the user program.
• Camera connection information (IP address, user name, and password) is not included in the setting
items. Define variables for camera connection information in the user program and set the content of
each variable as a variable value.
• When the settings are changed and synchronized, the Automation Playback Settings Changed
event (95720000 hex) is registered.
• Settings related to automation playback are subject to the complete erase function.

Version-related information
• If you change from a model or unit version that supports automation playback settings to a model or
unit version that does not support Automation Playback Settings, the automation playback setting
data will be deleted from the project. If you change to a new model or unit version that supports Au-
tomation Playback Settings, the automation playback setting data will be returned to the defaults.

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 3
Executing Playback
3
To execute playback, read the data collected by the Controller into the Sysmac Studio
and then start playback.

3-1 Copying Playback Data to a Computer ........................................................ 3-2

3-1-1 How to Copy Playback Data to a Computer.................................................... 3-2
3-1-2 Procedure for Using the Sysmac Studio Function to Copy Variable
Logs to a Computer......................................................................................... 3-2
3-2 Starting Playback ........................................................................................... 3-4
3-2-1 Procedure for Starting Playback...................................................................... 3-4
3-2-2 Items in the Start Playback Dialog Box ........................................................... 3-5
3-3 Restoring the Project When There Is No Project Corresponding
to the Variable Log .......................................................................................... 3-8
3-3-1 Procedure for Restoring the Project File from Playback Data......................... 3-8
3-4 Ending the Playback ...................................................................................... 3-9
3-4-1 Procedure for Ending the Playback................................................................. 3-9

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3 Executing Playback

3-1 Copying Playback Data to a Comput-

er
To execute playback, first copy the playback data collected by the Controller and a network camera to
a computer.
Playback data refers to the following.
• Variable logs that were collected and recorded by the Controller for playback
• Project backup file that was used to collect variables
• Video data that was captured with a network camera

3-1-1 How to Copy Playback Data to a Computer

One method to copy playback data to a computer on which the Sysmac Studio is installed is using the
Sysmac Studio function.
Other methods to do so include using the Windows function to copy it to an SD Memory Card mounted
on the computer or using FTP to copy it to the computer.

For how to use FTP to copy playback data to a computer, refer to the NJ/NX-series CPU Unit Software
User’s Manual (Cat. No. W501).
For the procedure to get video data, and ★TBD★for how to get variable logs and video data at once
using a centralized management script, refer to the ★TBD★○○ Manual.

3-1-2 Procedure for Using the Sysmac Studio Function to Copy Varia-
ble Logs to a Computer
Copy variable logs from the SD Memory Card on the Controller to a computer on which the Sysmac
Studio is installed.
You can copy variable logs when the Sysmac Studio is online with the Controller.

1 Select Automation Playback – Get Playback Data from Controller from the Tools menu of
the Sysmac Studio.
The SD Memory Card dialog box is displayed.

If the APB folder, which is the automation playback data folder, does not exist on the SD Mem-
ory Card, an error message will appear after this dialog box is displayed.

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 3 Executing Playback

2 In the SD Memory Card dialog box, select and copy the target data.

3-1 Copying Playback Data to a Computer

Select a variable log whose program hash code matches. Refer to 2-5-2 Setting How to Output
Variable Logs on page 2-16 for the specifications for saving variable log files.

3 Paste it into any folder in Windows Explorer.

The variable logs are copied to the specified folder.

Additional Information

A program hash code is used to check the link between variable logs and projects. Select a var-
iable log whose program hash code matches. If the program hash code is mismatched, data
may not be played correctly. The current project’s program hash code is displayed in the Start
Playback dialog box. Refer to 3-2-2 Items in the Start Playback Dialog Box on page 3-5.
3

3-1-2 Procedure for Using the Sysmac Studio Function to Copy Variable Logs to a Computer

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3 Executing Playback

3-2 Starting Playback

Start playback using the variable logs and video data that you copied to the computer.
When playback starts, the Sysmac Studio enters playback mode. Refer to 4-6 Restrictions during Exe-
cution of Playback on page 4-11 for operations that you cannot perform in playback mode.

3-2-1 Procedure for Starting Playback

Specify the data to play back and start playback function.
To start playback function, the Sysmac Studio and the Controller must be offline.

1 Open the project to use for playback in the Sysmac Studio.

2 Select Automation Playback – Start Playback from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.
The Start Playback dialog box is displayed.

3 In the Start Playback dialog box, specify the variable log and video data to use for playback.

4 Click the Start Playback button.

After a display of the Starting Playback... dialog box, the Playback Control dialog box and
the Search Playback Data tab page are displayed. When video data is specified, the Video
Playback window is displayed.

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 3 Executing Playback

3-2 Starting Playback

The top of the Edit pane is shown in purple. 3

3-2-2 Items in the Start Playback Dialog Box

Additional Information

• The Controller Status pane is not displayed during execution of playback function.
• The Search Playback Data tab page is displayed in a floating state, separate from the Sys-
mac Studio window. You can cancel the floating state and place it in the window, and bring it
back to the floating state again. Refer to the Sysmac Studio Version 1 Operation Manual
(Cat. No. W504) for details.

3-2-2 Items in the Start Playback Dialog Box

The Start Playback dialog box allows you to select a variable log and video files.
The items in the Start Playback dialog box are as shown in the table below.

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3 Executing Playback

(A)
(B) (C)
(D)

(E) (F)
(G)

(H) (I) (J)

Symbol Item Description

A Current project’s program hash The program hash code for the current project is displayed.
code A program hash code is used to check whether a specified
variable log was read by the project currently open.
When you select a variable log, select the variable log whose
program hash code matches.
B File path of variable log Specify the file path of the variable log to play in the project
currently open.*1
Click the button and select the file in the Open dialog
box of Windows.
C Path delete button Click this button to delete the file path of the variable log.
D Variable log file information Information on the variable log file in (A) is displayed. The
following items are displayed.
• Start time
• Collection time [s]
• Size [MB]
E File path of video Specify the file path of the video.
Click the ... button and select the file in the Open dialog box
of Windows.
Specify Video 1 through Video 4 in the same way.
F Path delete button Click this button to delete the file path of the video.

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 3 Executing Playback

Symbol Item Description

G Video file information The following information on the video file is displayed.
• Size [MB]
If you can get the video information from the xml file contain-
ing video information, the following information is also dis-
played.
• Start time

3-2 Starting Playback

• Collection time [s]
• Camera Name
H Video Detail Settings button Click this button to display the Video Detail Settings dialog
box when a variable log and video files are specified.

3-2-2 Items in the Start Playback Dialog Box

In the Video Detail Settings dialog box, you can configure
the settings for a specified video. Refer to 5-5-4 Items in the
Video Settings Dialog Box on page 5-19 for details on each
setting item.
I Start Playback button Click this button to read the variable log and video selected
in (A) and (C) and start playback.
It is enabled when the file path of the variable log is selected.
J Cancel button Click this button to cancel the playback without starting it.
The selected file paths and the settings configured in the
Video Detail Settings dialog box are not saved.
*1. To correctly monitor variable values and programs, you need to select the variable log corresponding to the
project currently open.
• If the specified variable log does not match the project currently open, the variable values and programs
on the monitor display may not be displayed correctly, although you can start the playback. In this case,
when you select the variable log, the following message is displayed.

• If the specified variable log does not match the project currently open and furthermore the data types do
not match, you cannot start playback. In this case, the following error message is displayed.

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3 Executing Playback

3-3 Restoring the Project When There Is

No Project Corresponding to the Vari-
able Log
If there is no project corresponding to the variable log on the computer to execute playback, for exam-
ple, when you use different computer to copy playback data for playback and play the data, restore the
project using the backup file to which you saved the project when collecting the variable log.

3-3-1 Procedure for Restoring the Project File from Playback Data
When you execute playback, you can import the project backup file into the Sysmac Studio and create
a project.
As a preparation, save the project backup in advance or when collecting the variable log. To save the
project backup file when collecting variable logs, you need to configure the settings in the Automation
Playback Settings view in advance.

1 Create a project in the Sysmac Studio.

2 Select Backup – Import Backup File from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.

3 Specify the folder where the backup files of the project are stored.
★★★画面（フォルダを指定している画面の図）★★★
A project for the specified backup file is created.

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 3 Executing Playback

3-4 Ending the Playback

End the playback.
When the playback function is ended, the Sysmac Studio goes offline from playback mode.

3-4 Ending the Playback

3-4-1 Procedure for Ending the Playback
End the playback from the Sysmac Studio menu.

1 Select Automation Playback – Exit Playback from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.
The playback function is ended after the Playback Control dialog box, the Playback Data
Search tab page, and the Playback Chart window are closed.
3
When the playback function is ended, the Sysmac Studio goes offline from playback mode.

3-4-1 Procedure for Ending the Playback

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3 Executing Playback

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 4
Checking Program Behavior us-
ing Playback
Play playback data, display the program and variables, and search for variable change
points.
4

4-1 Playing Playback Data ................................................................................... 4-2

4-1-1 Procedure for Playing Playback Data.............................................................. 4-2
4-1-2 Items in the Playback Control Dialog Box ....................................................... 4-3
4-2 Displaying the Ladder Program to Check with Playback ........................... 4-4
4-2-1 Procedure for Displaying the Ladder Program to Check with Playback.......... 4-4
4-3 Displaying the ST Program to Check with Playback .................................. 4-5
4-3-1 Procedure for Displaying the ST Program to Check with Playback ................ 4-5
4-4 Displaying the Variable Values to Check with Playback ............................ 4-6
4-4-1 Procedure for Displaying the Variable Values to Check with Playback ........... 4-6
4-5 Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback ................................ 4-7
4-5-1 Procedure for Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback............... 4-7
4-5-2 Items in the Search Playback Data Tab Page ................................................. 4-8
4-6 Restrictions during Execution of Playback ............................................... 4-11

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4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-1 Playing Playback Data

Play, stop, and perform backward/forward playback data.
Playback data is played so that the play operation of the playback data is synchronized with the moni-
tor display of the ladder or ST program and the Watch tab page.

4-1-1 Procedure for Playing Playback Data

In the Playback Control dialog box that appears automatically when playback starts, you can play,
stop, and perform backward/forward playback data.
To start playback, the Sysmac Studio and the Controller must be offline.

1 Start playback.
The Playback Control dialog box is displayed.

2 In the Playback Control dialog box, click the Play button.

The play operation of the playback data causes playback data to be played synchronously with
the monitor display of the ladder or ST program and the Watch tab page.

3 To pause playback, click the Pause button in the Playback Control dialog box.

Playback is paused.

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 4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

When playback is ended, the Playback Control dialog box automatically closes.

4-1-2 Items in the Playback Control Dialog Box

You can perform various operations while playing playback data.
The items in the Playback Control dialog box are as shown in the table below.

4-1 Playing Playback Data

(A)
(B)

(C) (D) (E) (F) (G) (H)

Sym-
bol
Name Type Description 4
A Seek bar Slider Use this slider to seek the play position. You can
drag the slider or click on the bar to move the

4-1-2 Items in the Playback Control Dialog Box

playback time.
B Trigger position Button Click this button to display the time at which the
file save trigger changed to TRUE. (The position
is displayed on the seek bar. It is inoperable.)
C Previous frame Button Click this button to move the time one sampling
period backward.
D Play/Pause Button Click this button to play or pause the data. During
play, the button shows , so you can click it to
pause the playback.
E Next frame Button Click this button to move the time one sampling
period forward.
F Move to trigger position Button Click this button to move to the time at which the
file save trigger changed to TRUE.
G Playback speed multi- Drop-down list You can select the playback speed from among
plier x0.1, x0.5, x1.0, x2.0, x4.0, and x8.0.
H Time information Label The playback time, data number, and total quanti-
ty of data are displayed. The total data quantity is
displayed to the right of ‘/’.

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4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-2 Displaying the Ladder Program to

Check with Playback
If you check the ladder program while playing playback data, select and display the target program or
section.
When you start play of playback data, rungs in monitor status in the Ladder Editor will be displayed.

4-2-1 Procedure for Displaying the Ladder Program to Check with

Playback
Select and display the ladder program or section to check with playback.

1 Double-click the ladder program or ladder function block under Programming in the Multiview
Explorer.
The ladder program is displayed in monitor status in the Ladder Editor. The execution status of
rungs and the present values of variables are displayed synchronously with the play position
specified in the Playback Control dialog box.

Purple indicates that the data is

being played back.

Light gray indicates that the data

cannot be edited.

When playback is ended, the monitoring of the ladder program ends.

Refer to the Sysmac Studio Version 1 Operation Manual (Cat. No. W504) for details on monitoring lad-
der programs.

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 4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-3 Displaying the ST Program to Check

4-3 Displaying the ST Program to Check with Playback

with Playback
If you check the ST program while playing playback data, select and display the target program.
When you start play of playback data, the program in monitor status in the ST Editor will be displayed.

4-3-1 Procedure for Displaying the ST Program to Check with Play-

back
Select and display the ST program to check with playback.

1 Double-click the ST program or ST function block under Programming in the Multiview Explor-
er.
The ST Editor is displayed. The present values of variables are displayed synchronously with
the play position specified in the Playback Control dialog box. 4

4-3-1 Procedure for Displaying the ST Program to Check with Playback

When playback is ended, the monitoring of the ST program ends.
Refer to the Sysmac Studio Version 1 Operation Manual (Cat. No. W504) for details on monitoring ST
programs.

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4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-4 Displaying the Variable Values to

Check with Playback
Display the variable values to check with playback.

4-4-1 Procedure for Displaying the Variable Values to Check with Play-
back
If you check the values of more than one variable at a time while playing playback data, select and
display the Watch tab page.

1 Select Watch Tab Page from the View menu. If you display the Watch (Table) tab page, select
Watch Tab Page (Table).
The Watch (Project) 1 or Watch (Table) 1 tab page is displayed.

When playback is ended, the monitoring in the Watch tab page ends.
Refer to the Sysmac Studio Version 1 Operation Manual (Cat. No. W504) for details on monitoring in
the Watch tab page.

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 4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-5 Searching for Variable Change Points

4-5 Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback

with Playback
Search playback data by specifying variable search conditions, such as the rising edge of a variable.
You can jump to the timing when a device variable changes and check the behavior of the device.

4-5-1 Procedure for Searching for Variable Change Points with Play-
back
Search (previous, next, all) playback data by specifying variable search conditions, such as the rising
edge of a variable.

1 When playback starts, the Playback Data Search tab page is automatically displayed. Or, se-
lect Automation Playback – Playback Data Search Tab Page from the Tools menu of the
Sysmac Studio. 4

4-5-1 Procedure for Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback

2 Select the Boolean or Bits/Numeric/Real option according to the data type of the variable to
search and enter the variable name to search for in the Condition drop-down list.

3 If it is a Boolean variable, select the TRUE (Rising) or FALSE (Falling) option. If it is a Bits/
Numeric/Real variable, select the comparison condition and enter the comparison constant in
the text box.

4 Depending on the range you want to search, click the Move to previous change point, Move
to next change point, or Find all change points button.
The search results are displayed.

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4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

• Move to previous change point or Move to next change point button:

Each time you click Move to previous change point, you move backward in time to the tar-
get time in order.
Each time you click Move to next change point, you move forward in time to the target time
in order.

• Find all change points button:

A list of times and variable values for the corresponding playback data is displayed.

When you search by Find all change points, double-click or press the Enter key on the
item to check in the list of search results, and then you can move to the search results.
When you are monitoring a ladder program or ST program, or when the Watch tab page is
displayed, the variable value at the target time is shown.
When the playback chart is displayed, the current time line on the time series variable graph
moves to the target time.
The video for the target time is displayed in the Video Playback window. Refer to Section
5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback on page 5-1 for de-
tails on the Video Playback window.

If you move to the search results while playing playback data, the play will pause before
moving to the search results.

4-5-2 Items in the Search Playback Data Tab Page

Specify the variable name and search conditions in the Playback Data Search tab page.
The Playback Data Search tab page has the items shown in the table below.

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 4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

(B) (C) (D)

4-5 Searching for Variable Change Points with Playback

(A)
(E)(F)(G)
(H)(I)(J)(K)(L)

(M)

(N)

Sym-
Name Description
bol
A Data type Set the data type of the variable to search for.
Select Boolean or Bit String/Integer/Real.
B Boolean variable name Set the name of the Boolean variable to search for with one of the
following methods. 4
• Enter a search string
• Select a previously entered string from the drop-down list

4-5-2 Items in the Search Playback Data Tab Page

C Bit string, integer, or real varia- Set the comparison constant for the bit string, integer, or real varia-
ble name ble to search for. Use one of the following methods.
• Enter a search string
• Select a previously entered string from the drop-down list
D Boolean variable name search Set the search condition for the Boolean variable to search for.
condition Select TRUE (Rising) or FALSE (Falling).
E Bit string, integer, or real varia- Set the search condition for the bit string, integer, or real variable to
ble search condition search for.
Select from the following conditions.
=: When equal to comparison constant
≠: When not equal to comparison constant
>: When greater than comparison constant
<: When less than comparison constant
≧: When greater than or equal to comparison constant
<=: When less than or equal to comparison constant
F Comparison constant Set the comparison constant for the bit string, integer, or real varia-
ble to search for.
G Number system Select the number system for the comparison constant from Deci-
mal or Hexadecimal.
H Move Backward button Click this button to search for the variable in playback data back-
ward in time.
I Move Forward button Click this button to search for the variable in playback data forward
in time.
J Search All button Click this button to search all playback data. The search results are
listed.
K Cancel button Click this button to cancel the execution of Search All.
L Movement result When you move to the search results by clicking the Move to
previous change point or Move to next change point button, or
jumping from the search results of Find all change points, the time
at which you move and the value of the variable will be displayed.
Also, if an error occurs during the execution of the search or move,
the relevant error message will be displayed.

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4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

Sym-
Name Description
bol
M Search results When you execute Find all change points, the list of times and val-
ues of the search results is displayed. When you double-click the
target line in the list, or select the target line and press the Enter
key, you can jump to the search results.
You can right-click on the list and execute Copy, Select All, or
Clear All.
N Number of search hits When you execute Find all change points, the number of search
hits, the target variables, and search conditions are displayed.

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 4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

4-6 Restrictions during Execution of

Playback

4-6 Restrictions during Execution of Playback

You cannot perform the following operations during execution of playback.
• Editing the Controller configurations and setup
• Editing programs and tasks
• Going online with the Controller
• Axis Status Monitor
• Monitoring in the I/O Map
• Monitoring task execution status and task execution times
• Data tracing
• Changing present values of data
• Online editing
• Simulation
4

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) 4-11

4 Checking Program Behavior using Playback

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 5
Checking Time Series Variable Val-
ues and Videos Using Playback

5-1 Playback Chart ............................................................................................... 5-2

5-1-1 Applications of the Playback Chart.................................................................. 5-2
5-1-2 Procedure for Starting the Playback Chart...................................................... 5-2
5-1-3 Procedure for Exiting the Playback Chart ....................................................... 5-3 5
5-1-4 Overview of the Playback Chart Window ........................................................ 5-3
5-1-5 Synchronization between the Playback Chart and the Program Moni-
toring Display................................................................................................... 5-4
5-1-6 Playback Chart Toolbar Items and Mouse Operations .................................... 5-4
5-2 Checking Variable Values on the Time Series Variable Graph in
the Playback Chart .......................................................................................... 5-6
5-2-1 Procedure for Displaying a Time Series Variable Graph ................................. 5-6
5-2-2 Items on the Time Series Variable Graph........................................................ 5-6
5-2-3 Context Menu Items for the Time Series Variable Graph ................................ 5-8
5-3 Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart .......................... 5-9
5-3-1 Variables That You Can Add to the Playback Chart ........................................ 5-9
5-3-2 Procedure for Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart ......... 5-9
5-3-3 Procedure for Saving the Variable List Displayed in the Playback Chart ...... 5-10
5-3-4 Procedure for Restoring the Saved Variable List .......................................... 5-10
5-3-5 Items on the Variable Selection Dialog Box .................................................. 5-10
5-3-6 Procedures for Adding Variables Selected in the Program Editor to
the Playback Chart .........................................................................................5-11
5-4 Displaying Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare in the
Playback Chart .............................................................................................. 5-13
5-4-1 Definition of Data to Compare ....................................................................... 5-13
5-4-2 Procedure for Selecting the Comparison Target Data File to Use for
Playback........................................................................................................ 5-13
5-4-3 Items in the File Selection Dialog Box........................................................... 5-14
5-4-4 Procedure for Aligning Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare
According to the Waveform Alignment Condition .......................................... 5-15
5-5 Playing Videos.............................................................................................. 5-17
5-5-1 Video Files That Are Initially Displayed ......................................................... 5-17
5-5-2 Procedures for Playing Videos ...................................................................... 5-17
5-5-3 Items in the Video Playback Window ............................................................ 5-18
5-5-4 Items in the Video Settings Dialog Box ......................................................... 5-19
5-6 Configuring the Automation Playback Option Settings ........................... 5-20
5-6-1 Procedure for Configuring the Automation Playback Option Settings........... 5-20
5-6-2 Items for Automation Playback Option Setting.............................................. 5-20

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-1 Playback Chart

You can display changes in variable values during playback in a graph, and play the video. You can
also compare their waveforms with those of other playback data.

5-1-1 Applications of the Playback Chart

You can use the playback chart to perform various types of analysis, such as the following.
• Registering variables that are considered to be relevant and checking changes in the variables in
time series when an error is detected during video playback or on the program monitoring display.
• Compare data during an error with that of normal operation using the waveform comparison feature.

5-1-2 Procedure for Starting the Playback Chart

Use the following procedure to start the playback chart. You can perform it in playback mode.

1 Select Automation Playback – Playback Chart from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.
The Playback Chart window is displayed.

You can display a time series variable graph when you add variables from the Playback Chart window
or the Program Editor.
Refer to 5-2-1 Procedure for Displaying a Time Series Variable Graph on page 5-6 for how to add
variables to the time series variable graph from the Playback Chart window.
Refer to 5-3-6 Procedures for Adding Variables Selected in the Program Editor to the Playback Chart
on page 5-11 for how to add variables to the time series variable graph from the Program Editor.

You can open the Video Playback window from the Playback Chart window.
Refer to 5-5-2 Procedures for Playing Videos on page 5-17 for how to display the Video Playback
window.

The Playback Chart window and the Video Playback window are displayed in a floating state, separate
from the Sysmac Studio window. You can cancel the floating state and place it in the window, and
bring it back to the floating state again.
Refer to the Sysmac Studio Version 1 Operation Manual (Cat. No. W504) for details.

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-1-3 Procedure for Exiting the Playback Chart

Use the following procedure to exit the playback chart.

1 Click the × button in the upper right corner of the Playback Chart window.
The playback chart is exited.

Additional Information

When the playback is ended, automatically exit the playback chart.

5-1-4 Overview of the Playback Chart Window

5-1 Playback Chart

When you start the playback chart, a time series variable graph is displayed. You can also display the
Video Playback window separate from the Playback Chart window.

Time Series Variable Graph

Display the time series variable graph. You can select the variables to display from the variable list or 5
specify the variables used in the rung or program selected in the Ladder Editor or ST Editor at once.
You can also specify the variable log to compare and superimpose its waveforms on the displayed

5-1-3 Procedure for Exiting the Playback Chart

waveforms.

On the time series variable graph, the play position of playback data is indicated by the current time
line.

Current time line

The playback time specified in the Playback Control dialog box is displayed as a vertical line on the
time series variable graph. You cannot move the vertical line.

Video Playback Window

In this window, video is played synchronously with play operations that you perform in the Playback
Control dialog box.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

You can also specify the video data to compare and display its videos side by side. For both compari-
son source and target data, you can play up to four videos, respectively.

5-1-5 Synchronization between the Playback Chart and the Program

Monitoring Display
The time series variable graph for playback chart and the Video Playback Window are displayed syn-
chronously as follows.

When playback started from the Playback Control dialog box is in progress
The time series variable graph on the playback chart and the Video Playback window are displayed
synchronously with the Program Monitor display.
★★★図で説明：プレイバック操作ダイアログ操作で、プログラムモニタ、時系列グラフ、動画再生
ウィンドウの表示が連動すること★★★

5-1-6 Playback Chart Toolbar Items and Mouse Operations

You can use the toolbar at the top of the time series variable graph on the playback chart with mouse
operations to customize the graph display as you prefer.

The table below shows the toolbar items that you can use for the time series variable graph in the
playback chart.

Icon Name Description

Variable Selection Selects the variables to display in the time series variable graph.

Export Source Data Exports the comparison source variable data displayed in the time series vari-
able graph in CSV format.

Load Compare Data Opens the Load Compare Data dialog box.

Unload Compare Da- Unloads the comparison target data from the playback chart.
ta

Show/Hide Compare Shows or hides the comparison target data in the playback chart.
Data

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

Icon Name Description

Align Data By Query Displays the area to set the waveform alignment conditions.

Export Compare Data Exports the comparisons target variable data displayed in the playback chart
in CSV format.
Relative Time Mode Displays the time on the time series variable graph as elapsed time.

Absolute Time Mode Displays the time on the time series variable graph as time.

Fit To Window Displays the entire variable data on the time series variable graph.

Show Cursor Values Switches between showing and hiding the value cursor on the time series var-
iable graph.

5-1 Playback Chart

Panning Mode Switches to Panning Mode in which you drag (pan) while holding down the left
mouse button on the time series variable graph to move in the X direction.
You can drag while holding down the right mouse button to zoom in a selected
range.
Zoom Mode Switches to Zoom Mode in which you drag while holding down the left mouse
button on the time series variable graph to zoom in and move a selected
range in the X direction. Drag while holding down the right mouse button to
5
move in the X direction.
Show Video Playback Opens the Video Playback window.

5-1-6 Playback Chart Toolbar Items and Mouse Operations

The table below shows the mouse operations that you can perform on the time series variable graph
in the playback chart.

Mouse operation Description

Mouse wheel Zooms in or zooms out on the time series variable graph in the X direction.
Shift + mouse wheel Zooms in or zooms out on the time series variable graph in the Y direction.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-2 Checking Variable Values on the Time

Series Variable Graph in the Playback
Chart
Check variable values on the time series variable graph.

5-2-1 Procedure for Displaying a Time Series Variable Graph

You can display a time series variable graph by adding variables from the Playback Chart window or
the Program Editor.
Use the following procedure to display a time series variable graph from the Playback Chart window.

1 Select Automation Playback – Playback Chart from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.
The Playback Chart window is displayed.
(★★プレイバックチャート起動画面を入れる★★)

2 Click the Variable Selection icon in the playback chart toolbar to display the Variable
Selection dialog box, and add variables.
A time series variable graph is displayed.
（★★変数時系列グラフの図を入れる★★）

Refer to 5-3-2 Procedure for Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart on page
5-9 for how to display the Variable Selection dialog box and add a variable.

From the next time on, the Playback Chart window will be displayed with the time series variable graph
of the variables selected the last time. Once variables are added, the variables will be retained until
the playback is ended.

Refer to 5-3-6 Procedures for Adding Variables Selected in the Program Editor to the Playback Chart
on page 5-11 for the procedure to display a time series variable graph by adding variables from the
Program Editor.

5-2-2 Items on the Time Series Variable Graph

The table below shows the detailed menu items that you can use for the time series variable graph in
the playback chart.

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-2 Checking Variable Values on the Time Series Variable Graph in the Playback
No. Name Description
29 Variable information dis- Displays variable names, comments, and data types according to the
play item selected in Variable Display Mode.

Chart
Show Legends Displays variable names, comments, and data types on the graph accord-
ing to the item selected in Variable Display Mode.
30 Trend graph display area Displays the trend graph of the comparison source data in the foreground 5
in automatically set colors. The trend graph of the comparison target data
is displayed in gray on the background.

5-2-2 Items on the Time Series Variable Graph

When you drag while holding down the left mouse button, you can move
the entire graph horizontally.
32 Variable value cursor Displays a blue vertical line cursor with the values in the X and Y direc-
tions on the graph.
35 X axis of comparison Displays the X axis values of the comparison source data. Displays the
source data time when the Absolute Time Mode toolbar icon is selected, or the
elapsed time when the Relative Time Mode toolbar icon is selected.
When you drag while holding the left mouse button, you can horizontally
scroll through the comparison source or target data.
36 X direction scroll bar for Displays the ratio of the data displayed in the window with a black bar as
comparison source data a percentage of the comparison source data. You can drag the bar while
holding the left mouse button to move the displayed time. At this time, the
X direction scroll bar for the comparison target data also moves synchro-
nously.
37 X axis of comparison tar- Displays the X axis values of the comparison target data. Displays the
get data time when the Absolute Time Mode toolbar icon is selected, or the
elapsed time when the Relative Time Mode toolbar icon is selected.
38 X direction scroll bar for Displays the ratio of the data displayed in the window with a black bar as
comparison target data a percentage of the comparison target data. The bar cannot be manipu-
lated.
39 Y direction scroll bar Enables the trend graph display area to be scrolled vertically.
43 Current time line This is a green vertical line cursor displayed at the target time in the com-
parison source data that moves synchronously with the play position in
the Playback Control dialog box to indicate the current time. The line
cannot be manipulated.
If the target time data is not displayed, the vertical line will be shown at
the target time by reading the data that contains the target time.
Trigger time line This is a red vertical line cursor displayed at the trigger time correspond-
ing to the trigger position. The line cannot be manipulated.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

No. Name Description

40 Minimize button Minimizes the window.
41 Maximize button Maximizes the window.
42 Close Exits the playback chart.

5-2-3 Context Menu Items for the Time Series Variable Graph
The table below shows menus that appear when you right-click on the time series variable graph.
They are available when either comparison source or target data are read.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)

Menu Submenu Description

Show Legends --- Select whether to show variable information on the graph according
to the item selected in Variable Display Mode.
Show Variable Informa- --- Select whether to show variable information on the left side of the
tion graph according to the item selected in Variable Display Mode.
Variable information Name, Com- Select how to display variable information in the legend display and
ment, or Name the variable information display.
and Comment
Show Data Select whether to display data types.
Types
Size of Y Axis Smallest, Select the display size of the Y axis for each variable on the time
Small, Medi- series variable graph.
um, Large, or
Largest

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-3 Selecting the Variables to Display in

the Playback Chart

5-3 Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart

You can select and display any variables in the playback chart.
For both the comparison source and target data, the variables that you select will be displayed.

5-3-1 Variables That You Can Add to the Playback Chart

You can add variables that meet all of the following conditions to the playback chart.
• Variables of data types to display on the time series variable graph, which are included in the varia-
ble log of the comparison source data
• Variables that are not targets for display on the time series variable graph in the playback chart

5-3-2 Procedure for Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback

Chart
You can select any variables from the comparison source data so that the selected variables will be
displayed in the playback chart. 5
Use the following procedure to select the variables to display in the playback chart.

5-3-1 Variables That You Can Add to the Playback Chart

1 Click the Variable Selection icon in the playback chart toolbar.
The Variable Selection dialog box is displayed.

2 In the variable name input box for Variable in the upper part of the dialog box, enter a string to
filter the variable names, select the target variable name from the candidates displayed in the
drop-down list, and then click the + button.
The selected variable name is added to the display variable list.

3 Click the OK button.

The Variable Selection dialog box closes, and the selected variables are added to the time
series variable graph.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-3-3 Procedure for Saving the Variable List Displayed in the Playback
Chart
Use the following procedure to save the variable list displayed in the playback chart.

1 With the selected variables displayed in the display variable list in the Variable Selection dia-
log box, click the Save button.
The Save File dialog box is displayed.

2 Specify the file name and where you want to save the file, and save the list.
A variable selection state file with the .var extension, which summarizes the information in the
display variable list, is saved in the specified location.

5-3-4 Procedure for Restoring the Saved Variable List

Use the following procedure to restore the saved variable list.

1 In the Variable Selection dialog box, click the Load button.

The File Selection dialog box is displayed.

2 Select the variable selection state file with the .var extension to restore and click the OK but-
ton.
The variables saved in the variable selection state file are displayed in the display variable list
in the Variable Selection dialog box.

3 Click the OK button.

The Variable Selection dialog box closes. The selected variables are added to the time series
variable graph.

5-3-5 Items on the Variable Selection Dialog Box

The items displayed in the Variable Selection dialog box are as shown in the table below.

(A) (B)
(C) (D)
(E)
(F)
(G)

(H)
(I)

(J) (K) (L) (M)

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

Sym-
Name Description
bol
A Variable name input box Enter a variable name in the format of ProgramName.VariableName.

5-3 Selecting the Variables to Display in the Playback Chart

When you enter a text string, a drop-down list of candidate variables is
displayed, and then you can select the target variable.

Variables of the following data types can be filtered.

Data type: BOOL/BYTE/WORD/DWORD/LWORD/SINT/INT/DINT/LINT/
USNT/UINT/UDINT/ULINT/REAL/LREAL
For structures and unions, members of the above data types are target-
ed. For FB instances, variables of the above data types are targeted. For
array variables of the above data types, each element is targeted. For
enumerations, enumerators are targeted.
B + button Adds the variable specified in Variable name input box (A) to the end of
Display variable list (C).
C Display variable list Lists variable names (variable names, their data types and comments)
added from Variable name input box (A).
Click once to select an item, and click again to clear it. You can select a
range by clicking any two unselected items while holding down the Shift
key.
D Top button Moves the variable selected in Display variable list (C) to the top of the
list. You can move two or more items at a time.
5
E Up button Moves the variable selected in Display variable list (C) one line up in the
list. You can move two or more items at a time.

5-3-6 Procedures for Adding Variables Selected in the Program Editor to the Playback Chart
F Down button Moves the variable selected in Display variable list (C) one line down in
the list. You can move two or more items at a time.
G Bottom button Moves the variable selected in Display variable list (C) to the bottom of
the list. You can move two or more items at a time.
H Select All button Selects all variables.
I Delete button Deletes the variables selected in Display variable list (C) from the list.
J Load button Displays the File Selection dialog box. In the dialog box that appears,
you can select and load a variable selection state file and restore the vari-
able selection state in Display variable list (C).
K Save button Displays the Save File dialog box. In the dialog box that appears, you
can save Display variable list (C) to a file with the .var extension (variable
selection state file) in a specified location.
L OK button Applies the changes. When you click the OK button, this window is
closed.
M Cancel button Closes this window. You can also close the window by pressing the Esc
key.

5-3-6 Procedures for Adding Variables Selected in the Program Editor

to the Playback Chart
You can add variables used in the rung or program selected in the Ladder Editor or ST Editor.
Use the following procedures to add variables selected in the Program Editor to the playback chart.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

Procedure for Adding Variables Selected in the Ladder Editor to the

Playback Chart

l Adding Variables by Drag and Drop

1 In the Ladder Editor, select the rung element to add, and drag and drop it into the Playback
Chart window.
A variable is added to the playback chart.
You can add only one variable per drag and drop.
★★★変数が追加された図★★★

l Adding Variables from the Context Menu

1 Right-click one or more rungs in the Ladder Editor and select Add Variables to Playback
Chart from the menu.
★★★右クリックしている図を追加★★★
Variables in the selected rungs are added to the playback chart.

Adding Variables Selected in the ST Editor to the Playback Chart

l Adding Variables by Drag and Drop

1 Select a range in the ST Editor, and drag and drop it into the Playback Chart window.
A variable is added to the playback chart.
You can add only one variable per drag and drop.
★★★変数が追加された図★★★

l Adding Variables from the Context Menu

1 Right-click a range in the ST Editor and select Add Variables to Playback Chart from the
menu.
★★★右クリックしている図を追加★★★
Variables in the selected range are added to the playback chart.

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-4 Displaying Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare in the Playback Chart
5-4 Displaying Waveforms of the Variable
Data to Compare in the Playback
Chart
The playback chart allows you to compare and analyze waveforms by superimposing waveforms of
the time series variable data to compare on the waveforms displayed in the playback chart.
To superimpose waveforms on the displayed waveforms, select the comparison target data file to com-
pare.

5-4-1 Definition of Data to Compare

The playback chart allows you to compare variable data on the time series variable graph with video
data.
To compare these, “comparison source data” and “comparison target data” are used.
The definitions of “comparison source data” and “comparison target data” are as follows.

Comparison source data

5
Comparison source data is the variable log and video data specified when you start playback in the
Sysmac Studio. Comparison source data is read at startup of the playback chart.

5-4-1 Definition of Data to Compare

Comparison target data
Comparison target data is the variable log and video data to compare in the playback chart. Compari-
son target data is read when it is specified in the Playback Chart window. Comparison target data is
played synchronously with playback operations that you perform on the comparison source data in the
Playback Control dialog box.
★★★（図で説明：比較元、比較先それぞれが、プレイバックチャートの動画再生ウィンドウの再生
操作または動画再生線の移動操作により、変数時系列グラフと動画再生ウィンドウが連動表示され
る）★★★

5-4-2 Procedure for Selecting the Comparison Target Data File to Use
for Playback
Select the comparison target data file to use for playback.
Use the following procedure to select the file.

1 Click the Load Compare Data icon in the playback chart toolbar.
The Load Compare Data dialog box is displayed.
★★★ファイル選択ダイアログ画面★★★

2 Specify the file paths of the variable log file and video data to add as targets for waveform com-
parison, and click the OK button.
Variables with the same variable names and data types as those in the comparison source da-
ta displayed on the time series variable graph are displayed. In addition, the specified video
files are displayed in the Video Playback window.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-4-3 Items in the File Selection Dialog Box

In the Load Compare Data dialog box, select the comparison target variable log and video files.
The items displayed in the Load Compare Data dialog box are as shown in the table below.

(A) (B)
(C)

(D) (E)
(F)

(G) (H) (I)

Sym-
Item Description
bol
A File path of variable log Specify the file path of the variable log file for the variables to add as
waveform comparison targets in the playback chart.
Directly enter the file path, or click the ... button and select the file in the
file selection dialog box of Windows.
B Path delete button Click this button to delete the file path of the variable log.
C Variable log file informa- Information on the variable log file in (A) is displayed. The following items
tion are displayed.
• Start time
• Collection time [s]
• Size [MB]
D File path of video Specify the file path of the video.
E Path delete button Click this button to delete the file path of the video.
F Video file information The following information on the video file is displayed.
• Size [MB]
If it is possible to read the video file information in (C) from the xml file
containing the video information, the following information is also dis-
played.
• Start time
• Collection time [s]
• Serial number of camera

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-4 Displaying Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare in the Playback Chart
Sym-
Item Description
bol
G Video Detail Settings Click this button to display the Video Detail Settings dialog box when a
button variable log and video files are specified.

In the Video Detail Settings dialog box, you can configure the settings
for a specified video. Refer to 5-5-4 Items in the Video Settings Dialog
Box on page 5-19 for details on each setting item.
H OK button Click this button to add and display only variables with the same names
and data types as those in the comparison source data displayed in the
time series variable graph. In addition, the specified video files are dis-
played in the Video Playback window.
You cannot add variables that are not included in the comparison source
5
data.
I Cancel button Click this button to cancel the files specified in (A) and (C) without reading

ment Condition
5-4-4 Procedure for Aligning Waveforms of the Variable Data to Compare According to the Waveform Align-
them.
The selected file paths are not saved.

5-4-4 Procedure for Aligning Waveforms of the Variable Data to Com-

pare According to the Waveform Alignment Condition
You can superimpose the waveforms of comparison source and target data when you execute a varia-
ble value query on the comparison source and target data.

1 Click the Align Data By Query icon in the playback chart toolbar.
An area to set the waveform alignment conditions appears in the upper part of the Playback
Chart window.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

2 Select the Boolean or Bits/Numeric/Real option according to the data type of the variable to set
the waveform alignment condition and enter the variable name to search for in the Condition
drop-down list.

3 If it is a Boolean variable, select the TRUE (Rising) or FALSE (Falling) option. If it is a Bits/
Numeric/Real variable, select the comparison condition and enter the comparison constant in
the text box.

4 Select the number of times that the matching value condition must be met for the comparison
source and target data from the Source Occurrence and Compare Occurrence drop-down
lists and click the Align Waveforms button.
The waveforms of the comparison source and target data are aligned and displayed on the
playback chart based on the set conditions.
★★図を入れる★★

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-5 Playing Videos

Play video data in the Video Playback window of the playback chart.

5-5-1 Video Files That Are Initially Displayed

a. When playback is started by selecting the comparison source video data in the Start Playback
dialog box
All video files selected in the video play frames are displayed.
b. When video data from the comparison target is selected in the Load Compare Data dialog box
All video files selected in the video play frames are displayed. If videos are already displayed in a.,
they will be added to the videos in a. and displayed in the remaining video play frames.

5-5 Playing Videos

You can use the seek bar displayed for each of the comparison source and target data in the Video
Playback window to perform the play operation of the video data. The length and start position of the
seek bar will change according to the comparison source and target data read in the Playback Chart
window.

5
5-5-2 Procedures for Playing Videos
Use the following procedure to play video data. You can perform it in playback mode.

5-5-1 Video Files That Are Initially Displayed

1 Select Automation Playback – Video Playback from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.
Or, click the Video Play icon in the toolbar of the Playback Chart window.
The Video Playback Window is displayed.

If you select a video file in the Start Playback dialog box and start playback, the Video
Playback window will be automatically displayed.

2 Click the Play/Pause button.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

The video data is played.

5-5-3 Items in the Video Playback Window

You can perform various operations in the Video Playback Window.
The table below shows the items displayed in the Video Playback Window.

No. Name Description

Camera name The camera name is displayed. If no camera name is set, Video 1
through Video 4 will be listed.
Video Settings button Click this button to open the Video Settings dialog box, where you can
set the camera name and start time offset for the video.
The Video Settings button is displayed above each video.
Close button Click this button to close the video play frame.
1 Video selection drop- Select the comparison source data or comparison target data that con-
down list tains videos. The list shows camera names and data types. You cannot
select data that does not contain videos. If a camera name is set, camera
names will be listed. If camera name is not set, Video 1 through Video 4
will be listed.
3 Mute/Unmute button Click this button to mute or unmute the audio of the video in each frame.
4 Video playback frames Videos are displayed based on the selected data name and file name.
★★TB Settings button Click this button to open the Settings dialog box, where you can set the
D★★ camera name and start time offset for the video.
Time The playback time of the video and the total length of the video are dis-
played.
For the playback time, the start time is displayed if it can be read from the
xml file. If it cannot be read, the elapsed time is displayed.
Data types The Source and the Compare are displayed.
12 Volume slider Use this slider to adjust the volume for all videos between 0 and 100%.
15 Layout drop-down list Select the layout of the video play frames (i.e., number of horizontal
frames × number of vertical frames) to display in the Video Playback win-
dow. You can select one of the following combinations.
1×1, 1×2, 1×3, 1×4, 2×1, 2×2, 2×3, 2×4, 3×1, 3×2, 4×1, and 4×2

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

No. Name Description

17 Minimize button Click this button to minimize this window.
18 Maximize button Click this button to maximize this window.
19 Close button Click this button to close this window.

5-5-4 Items in the Video Settings Dialog Box

You can configure the settings for a specific video in the Settings dialog box.
To display the Settings dialog box, click the Video Settings button displayed above each video.
The items displayed in the Settings dialog box are shown below.

5-5 Playing Videos

5

5-5-4 Items in the Video Settings Dialog Box

Name Description
File Name The video file name is displayed.
Camera Name Enter any camera name. By default, the camera name is displayed if it can be read from the
XML file.
Play start posi- Set the offset for the play start date and time of the video file based on the start date and time
tion offset of the variable data in units of ms. Set the start time offset based on the start time of the varia-
ble data in units of ms. If you can get the start time from the XML file containing video infor-
mation, the offset calculated from the start time that you get will be initially displayed.
When you set the play start position offset, you can lock the video image so that it cannot be
changed for a specified time from the play start position of the video.
OK button Click this button to apply the settings.
Cancel button Click this button to cancel the settings.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

5-6 Configuring the Automation Playback

Option Settings
Configure the automation playback option settings.

5-6-1 Procedure for Configuring the Automation Playback Option Set-

tings
Use the following procedure to configure the automation playback option settings.

1 Select Options from the Tools menu of the Sysmac Studio.

The Options dialog box is displayed.

2 Select Automation Playback from the menu on the left side of the dialog box.
The Options view for automation playback is displayed.

5-6-2 Items for Automation Playback Option Setting

The table below shows the option setting items that you can configure for automation playback.

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 5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

Category Name Description Setting range Default

Automation Time Display Set the display mode for the time dis- Relative Time Absolute
Playback Mode played on the time series variable graph Mode or Absolute Time Mode
and video in the Playback Chart win- Time Mode

5-6 Configuring the Automation Playback Option Settings

dow.
Size of Y Axis Set the height of the time series variable Smallest, Small, Medium
graph displayed in the Playback Chart Medium, Large, or
window. Largest
Maximum Display Set the maximum number of variables 10 to 256 100
Variables that can be displayed as a graph in the
Playback Chart window at once.
Variable Display Select how to display variable names Name, Comment, Name and
Mode and variable comments on the graph in or Name and Com- Comment
the Playback Chart window. ment
Show Data Types Select how to display the data types of Selected or Not Selected
variable data displayed on the graph in selected
the Playback Chart window.
Display Width Set the time range of the variables to Full/Extended Full
display in a time series variable graph. Period (1 to
3,600,000) when
Extended is select-
ed 5
Reset to default Click this button to reset the automation --- ---
settings button playback option setting items to the de-

5-6-2 Items for Automation Playback Option Setting

fault values.

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5 Checking Time Series Variable Values and Videos Using Playback

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 6
Troubleshooting
Check and correct errors based on the error management method for the NJ/NX-ser-
ies Controller and troubleshoot problems specific to the automation playback function.

6-1 Overview of Troubleshooting........................................................................ 6-2

6-2 Troubleshooting for Variable Data Collection ............................................. 6-3
6-2-1 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Not Output.................................................... 6-3
6-2-2 What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured in Variable Logs ........... 6-3
6-2-3 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Shorter Than the Set Time........................... 6-6 6
6-3 Checking Information on Sampling for Automation Playback .................. 6-8
6-3-1 Checking the Operation Status of Automation Playback................................. 6-8
6-3-2 Checking the Number of Variables to Use in Program POUs and the
Memory Usage .............................................................................................. 6-10

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6 Troubleshooting

6-1 Overview of Troubleshooting

You manage all of the errors that occur on the NJ/NX-series Controller as events.
This allows you to see what errors have occurred and find corrections for them with the same methods
for the entire range of errors that is managed (i.e., CPU Unit, X Bus Units, NX Units, NX-series Slave
Terminals, EtherCAT slaves*1, and CJ-series Units).
*1. Only Sysmac devices are supported.

Host computer HMI

Checking
Network Status

EtherNet/IP

Troubleshooter

Network Configurator

Built-in
NX-series NJ/NX-series EtherNet/IP CJ-series Units and
port
X Bus Units CPU Unit NX Units

Troubleshooting
function POWER

PORT2

Sysmac Studio

Built-in EtherCAT port

EtherCAT

EtherCAT
slaves
Error management range for
NJ/NX-series Controller

You can use the troubleshooting functions of the Sysmac Studio or the Troubleshooter on an HMI to
quickly check for errors that have occurred and find corrections for them.

Refer to the NJ/NX-series Troubleshooting Manual (Cat. No. W503) for error types and details, specific
corrections when errors occur, and troubleshooting information on the entire NJ/NX-series Controllers.

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 6 Troubleshooting

6-2 Troubleshooting for Variable Data

Collection
This section provides information on troubleshooting variable data collection.

6-2-1 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Not Output

6-2 Troubleshooting for Variable Data Collection

Variable logs will not be output when the storage at the variable log output destination is unavailable.

Problem Cause Correction

Variable logs are not output. The storage at the variable log out- Check and remove the causes list-
put destination is unavailable. ed on the left.
• There is no SD Memory Card.
• The SD Memory Card has no
available space.
• The SD Memory Card or the SD
Memory Card folder is write-pro-
tected.
• Power supply to the SD Memory
Card has stopped.
• The SD Memory Card is unable
to write data due to a data error.
• The SD Memory Card is dam- 6
aged.
• The SD Memory Card is format-

6-2-1 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Not Output

ted during output of variable
logs.

When this problem occurs, the following event occurs.

Refer to the NJ/NX-series Troubleshooting Manual (Cat. No. W503) for information on the event.

Event code Event name

152C0000 hex Variable Log Save Failed

6-2-2 What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured in Variable

Logs
Depending on the project in the Controller, it may not be possible to ensure data concurrency in varia-
ble logs. Data concurrency means that all variable data in a given task period is read as data in the
same task period. "Data concurrency cannot be ensured" means that all variable data in a certain task
period is read across multiple task periods because it cannot be read in the same task period.
When variable logs are used to investigate applications such as high-speed, high-precision motion
control where a periodic gap of changes in variable values can cause problems, it is important that
data concurrency is ensured in the variable logs. When you use the automation playback, make sure
during testing operation with the Automation Playback Operation Monitor that data concurrency of the
variable logs is ensured in the actual operating environment. Refer to 6-3-1 Checking the Operation
Status of Automation Playback on page 6-8 for information on the Automation Playback Operation
Monitor.

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6 Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Correction

• Data concurrency cannot be en- • Number of variables to be sam- Perform one or more of the follow-
sured in variable logs. pled ing corrections.
• There are periods in which sam- If the the number of variables is • Reduce the number of sampling
pling of variables is not per- large, the time required for varia- target variables.
formed. ble sampling is long. Therefore, if • Increase the task period.
the number of variables is large, • For the primary periodic task,
sampling of the target variables you may exclude axis variables
cannot be completed within the from the sampling target.
same task period. Refer to Procedure for What to Do
• Task period If Data Concurrency Cannot be En-
If the task period is short, the sured in Variable Logs on page
number of sampling target varia- 6-4 for the detailed procedure.
bles that can be processed in
one task period is small. There-
fore, if the task period is short,
sampling of the target variables
cannot be completed within the
same task period.
• Time required for sampling varia-
bles in the primary periodic task
If the time required for sampling
variables in the primary periodic
task is long, the time available
for sampling variables in periodic
tasks will be short and the sam-
pling in the periodic tasks may
not be completed.

When this problem occurs, the following event occurs.

Refer to the NJ/NX-series Troubleshooting Manual (Cat. No. W503) for information on the event.

Event code Event name

64060000 hex No Variable Log Concurrency
64070000 hex Cycle with No Variable Sampling

Precautions for Correct Use

If playback is executed in the Sysmac Studio with a variable log that contains data subject to
the Cycle with No Variable Sampling event, the time of the data may not be displayed correctly.
For example, if a variable log has 50 non-sampling periods when data was collected for 10,000
periods with the task period set to 1 ms, the collection time of the data collected at 1,000 ms
may be displayed as 1,005 ms. This occurs because the data collected in 9,950 cycles is aver-
aged to 10,000 periods for playback.

Procedure for What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured

in Variable Logs
The following is the procedure for what to do if data concurrency cannot be ensured in variable logs.
An example of correction using the Sysmac Studio is given below.

1 Check the event log to identify a task for which concurrency of variable logs cannot be ensur-
ed.

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 6 Troubleshooting

The task type for which concurrency of variable logs could not be ensured is shown in Attached
information 1 of the No Variable Log Concurrency event (64060000 hex) and Cycle with No
Variable Sampling event (64070000 hex).

2 Display the Automation Playback Operation Monitor.

Refer to 6-3-1 Checking the Operation Status of Automation Playback on page 6-8 for how
to display the Automation Playback Operation Monitor.

3 In the Automation Playback Operation Monitor dialog box, check the current number of

6-2 Troubleshooting for Variable Data Collection

sampling target variables and the available sampling execution time (average) for the task for
which data concurrency cannot be ensured in variable logs.

4 Calculate the guideline for variables that can be sampled with the following formula.
(Number of variables that can be sampled) 6
= ((Available sampling execution time (μs)) - 10.88 (μs)) / 0.09

6-2-2 What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured in Variable Logs

The difference between the number of variables that can be sampled and the current number
of sampling target variables checked in step 3 is the guideline for variables to be reduced from
the sampling target.

5 Display the Memory Usage tab page.

Refer to 6-3-2 Checking the Number of Variables to Use in Program POUs and the Memory
Usage on page 6-10 for how to display the Memory Usage tab page.

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6 Troubleshooting

In the Task Details section, in the table of the task for which data concurrency cannot be en-
sured in variable logs, add up the Number of Non-retained Variable Definitions and Number
of Retained Variable Definitions values for the program POUs from which to collect variable
data with automation playback.

6 If the result obtained in step 5 exceeds the number of variables that can be sampled calculated
in step 4, reduce the number of program POUs from which to collect variable data in the Auto-
mation Playback Settings.
If the task for which data concurrency cannot be ensured in variable logs is the primary period-
ic task, you can also exclude axis variables from the sampling target to reduce the number of
variables to be sampled.
Refer to 2-5-1 Setting How to Collect Variable Data on page 2-13 for how to set program POUs
from which to collect variable data and how to exclude axis variables from the sampling target.

Additional Information

Since the Automation Playback Settings display and the Memory Usage tab page can be
placed side by side, you can change the program POUs from which to collect variable data
while the memory usage is checked.

7 If the number of variables that can be sampled calculated in step 4 is exceeded even after the
sampling target is reduced as much as possible, increase the task period.

Precautions for Correct Use

The number of variables that can be sampled calculated in step 4 is a guideline. Even when the
number of variables to be sampled is less than or equal to the number of variables that can be
sampled calculated in step 4, perform testing operation to check that data concurrency can be
ensured in variable logs.

6-2-3 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Shorter Than the Set Time
Depending on the project in the Controller, the length of output variable log data may be shorter than
the set collection time. You can check whether variable logs for an expected time were output or not
by an event.
When you use the automation playback, make sure during the testing operation that variable logs for
the set time are output in the actual environment.

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 6 Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Correction

Variable log data is shorter than the The set sampling data size is larger Perform one or more of the follow-
set time than the memory size of the CPU ing corrections.
Unit available for storing the sam- • For the variables to sample, se-
pling data. lect only the program POUs that
• Number of variables to be sam- require analysis.
pled • For the primary periodic task,
The larger the number of varia- you can exclude axis variables
bles, the larger the size of the from the sampling target.
variable sampling data, so the Refer to 2-5-1 Setting How to Col-

6-2 Troubleshooting for Variable Data Collection

time allowed for output to the lect Variable Data on page 2-13 for
variable log is shorter. how to set program POUs from
• Variable data type which to collect variable data and
The automation playback han- how to exclude axis variables from
dles structure variables and ar- the sampling target.
ray variables as single variables.
Even if the number of variables
is small, the sampling data size
is large when it contains a large
number of structure variables
and array variables. Therefore,
when structure variables or array
variables are sampled, the time
allowed for output to variable
logs is shorter than when the
same number of basic data types
is sampled.
6

You can check whether variable logs for an expected time were output or not with the attached infor-

6-2-3 What to Do If Variable Logs Are Shorter Than the Set Time
mation of the following event.
Refer to the NJ/NX-series Troubleshooting Manual (Cat. No. W503) for information on the event.

Event code Event name

95750000 hex Variable Log Output Completed

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6 Troubleshooting

6-3 Checking Information on Sampling

for Automation Playback
You can check information on sampling for automation playback.

6-3-1 Checking the Operation Status of Automation Playback

Check the operation status using the Automation Playback Operation Monitor.

Procedure for Checking the Operation Status of Automation Play-

back
Use the Automation Playback Operation Monitor in the Sysmac Studio to check the sampling time
margin, sampling status, etc.
To use the Automation Playback Operation Monitor, it is required that the CPU Unit is in RUN Mode
and that the Sysmac Studio and the Controller are online.

1 Double-click Task Settings under Configurations and Setup or right-click it and select Edit
from the menu in the Multiview Explorer of the Sysmac Studio.
The edit pane is displayed.
★★★画面★★★

2 In the Task Settings tab page displayed in the edit pane, click the Automation Playback
Operation Monitor button.
★★★画面★★★
The Automation Playback Operation Monitor dialog box is displayed.

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 6 Troubleshooting

Additional Information

The Automation Playback Operation Monitor dialog box is displayed in a separate window
from the Automation Playback Settings view, so you can arrange the windows side by side to
check playback operation.

6-3 Checking Information on Sampling for Automation Playback

3 Check the information.
If the sampling time exceeds the task period, data concurrency cannot be ensured. To ensure
data concurrency, reduce the number of sampling target variables.
Refer to 6-2-2 What to Do If Data Concurrency Cannot be Ensured in Variable Logs on page
6-3 for how to ensure data concurrency.

Items That You Can Check in the Automation Playback Operation

Monitor
The Automation Playback Operation Monitor allows you to check operation status and sampling time
information.

(A)
(B)
(C)
(D)
(E) 6
(F)
(G)

6-3-1 Checking the Operation Status of Automation Playback

(H)
(E)
(F)
(G)
(H)

Symbol Item Description

A Automation playback Displays the status of automation playback. When it is disabled,
(B) and subsequent monitor values will not be displayed.
Refer to A-1-1 State Transitions for Automation Playback Function
on page A-2 for details on the status of automation playback.
B Collection setting in operation Displays the setting name of the active sampling setting.
C Variable log output setting Displays the setting name and sampling status of Variable log out-
name put setting 1.
D Variable log output setting Displays the setting name and sampling status of Variable log out-
name put setting 2.
E Sampling target variables Displays the number and size of sampling target variables for the
primary periodic task or periodic task.
F Collected data length★★★削 Displays the record length per record of the primary periodic task
除する★★★ or periodic task in MB.

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6 Troubleshooting

Symbol Item Description

G Sampling time ratio Displays a stacked bar chart showing the average, maximum, and
exceeded sampling times for the primary periodic task or periodic
task, where each bar has a length corresponding to its time per-
centage with the average sampling available time as 100%.
• Average
Displays the average sampling time for the primary periodic
task or periodic task as a percentage [%] of the average sam-
pling available time and in units of μs.
• Maximum
Displays the maximum sampling time for the primary periodic
task or periodic task as a percentage [%] of the average sam-
pling available time and in units of μs.
• Average available sampling time
Displays the value calculated from set period of primary period-
ic task or periodic task minus task execution time (average) in
units of μs.
• Excess
Displays the sampling time for the portion that exceeds the
average sampling available time for the primary periodic task or
periodic task. A bar with a length corresponding to its time per-
centage is shown. The value is not shown.
H Excess count Displays the number of times that the sampling time for the pri-
mary periodic task or periodic task exceeded the task period.

6-3-2 Checking the Number of Variables to Use in Program POUs and

the Memory Usage
You can check the number of variables to use in program POUs assigned to each task and the memo-
ry usage.

Procedure for Checking the Number of Variables to Use in Program

POUs and the Memory Usage
In the Memory Usage tab page in the Sysmac Studio, check the number of variables to use in pro-
gram POUs assigned to tasks and the memory usage.

1 Select Memory Usage from the Project menu of the Sysmac Studio.
The Memory Usage tab page is displayed.

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 6 Troubleshooting

6-3 Checking Information on Sampling for Automation Playback

2 Click Details.
Detailed information is displayed.

6-3-2 Checking the Number of Variables to Use in Program POUs and the Memory Usage

3 Check each information.

Refer to the Sysmac Studio Version 1 Operation Manual (Cat. No. W504) for information on
each item in the Details view.

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6 Troubleshooting

6-12 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 A
Appendices

A-1 State Transitions ........................................................................................... A-2

A-1-1 State Transitions for Automation Playback Function....................................... A-2
A-1-2 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Pre/post Trig-
ger Method ...................................................................................................... A-3
A-1-3 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Start/Save
Trigger Method ................................................................................................ A-4
A-1-4 Special Notes on State Transition of Variable Log Output .............................. A-6
A-2 Precautions for Online Editing..................................................................... A-7
A-3 List of System-defined Variables for Automation Playback ..................... A-8
A-4 Specifications of Playback Data .................................................................. A-9 A
A-5 Version Information for Automation Playback Functions ....................... A-10

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) A-1

Appendices

A-1 State Transitions

A-1-1 State Transitions for Automation Playback Function
For the automation playback function, state transitions occur in the Controller as shown in the follow-
ing state transition diagram.
You can check each transition state by the values of system-defined variables related to the automa-
tion playback function.

(10)
(1)’ (1)
(9)
Error
(5)
(7)
Disabled
(2) (3)
Initializing Idle Run
(6) (4)
(8)

State Description
Disabled Automation playback is set to Do not use, or the simulator is being started.
Initializing Automation playback function is performing its initial processing.
Idle Automation playback function completed the initial processing, but has not started sampling of
variables.
Run Automation playback function is running.
Error An error in sampling of variables with the automation playback function occurs, or an unexpected
error occurs in the automation playback function.

The conditions for transition to each state are as follows.

No. Main transition conditions Event to occur

1 A Controller that is set to Use for the automation playback is started.
1' A Controller that is set to Do not use for the automation playback
function is started.
2 Automation playback function completes its initial processing.
3 The conditions for starting variable sampling (all of the following) are • Variable Sampling Started
met. (95730000 hex)
• Valid sampling settings are transferred to the Controller.
• The Controller changes from PROGRAM Mode to RUN Mode.
Or one of the following conditions is met.
• Online editing is completed.
• Change of the Controller’s time information is completed (including
updates by an NTP client).
4 One of the following conditions is met.
• The Controller changes to a state other than RUN Mode.
• The user program or variable settings that were changed by online
editing are reflected in the Controller.
• A major fault level event occurred in the Controller.
• Change of the Controller’s time information is started (including up-
dates by an NTP client).

A-2 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Appendices

No. Main transition conditions Event to occur

5 The following occurred with Operation after task period is exceeded • No Variable Log Concur-
set to Stop in the variable log sampling setting. rency (64060000 hex)
• Concurrency cannot be ensured in variable logs. • Cycle with No Variable
• The system determines that there are periods in which sampling is Sampling (64070000 hex)
not performed.
• An unexpected error occurred in the automation playback function.
6 The changed settings for the automation playback are transferred.
7 Do not use setting for automation playback is transferred.
8 The APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) in-
struction is executed.
9 The changed settings for the automation playback function are trans-
ferred, or the APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Set-
tings) instruction is executed.
10 An unexpected error occurred in the automation playback function.

A-1-2 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Pre/post

Trigger Method
For variable log output based on the pre/post trigger method, state transitions occur in the Controller

A-1 State Transitions

as shown in the following state transition diagram. Note that sampling of variables is performed in
states shown in gray in the diagram.

(9)

Disabled (4)
(11) (1) (13)

Stopped
(5)
Sampling
(12)
Triggered
(3)
Storing A
(2)
(6)
(7)

A-1-2 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Pre/post Trigger Method
(10)
(8)
Error

State Description
Disabled There is no variable log output setting based on the pre/post trigger method, or the collection set-
ting related to the variable log output setting based on the pre/post trigger method is disabled.
Stopped Sampling of variables has stopped, so it is impossible to output variable logs.
Sampling Sampling of variables is in progress.
Triggered One of the conditions specified for File save trigger is met.
Storing The variable log is being stored.
Sampling of variables is stopped when the state changes to this state.
Error Storing of the variable log has failed.

The conditions for transition to each state are as follows.

No. Main transition conditions Event to occur

1 Automation playback function enters an Idle state, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
2 Automation playback function enters a Run state.
3 The time specified for Post-trigger collection time has elapsed.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) A-3

Appendices

No. Main transition conditions Event to occur

4 Output of the variable log file is completed.*1 • Variable Log Output Com-
pleted (95750000 hex)
5 Automation playback function enters an Idle state, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
6 Automation playback function enters an Error state.
7 Output of the variable log has failed.
8 Error reset operation is performed.
9 The Controller changed to a state other than RUN Mode during output
of the variable log.*2
10 Automation playback function enters an Idle state, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
11 The setting for automation playback is changed to Do not use, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
12 One of the conditions specified for File save trigger is met.*3
13 One of the conditions specified for File save trigger is met.
*1. This includes cases where the collection time is less than the set collection time.
*2. If the Controller changes to a state other than RUN Mode during Storing, output of the variable log will be
aborted and therefore the variable log file will not be output. The state of automation playback function
changes to Idle.
*3. This condition is valid even when the period of Sampling (execution period of sampling actual variables) is
less than Pre-trigger collection time. In this case, the variable log whose Sampling period is less than Pre-
trigger collection time will be output. No events will be generated.

A-1-3 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Start/Save

Trigger Method
For variable log output based on the start/save trigger method, state transitions occur in the Controller
as shown in the following state transition diagram. Note that sampling of variables is performed in
states shown in gray in the diagram.
(9)

Disabled (4)
(11) (1) (14) (15)
(5) (12) (13) (3)
Stopped Sampling Triggered Sampled Storing

(2) (6) (7)

(10) (8)
Error

State Description
Disabled There is no variable log output setting based on the start/save trigger method, or the sampling
setting related to the variable log output setting based on the start/save trigger method is disa-
bled.
Stopped Sampling of variables has stopped, so it is impossible to output variable logs.
Sampling Sampling of variables is in progress.
Triggered The condition specified for Start trigger is met.
Sampled The time set for Collection time has elapsed.

A-4 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Appendices

State Description
Storing The variable log is being stored.
Error Storing of the variable log has failed.

The conditions for transition to each state are as follows.

No. Main transition conditions Event to occur

1 Automation playback function enters an Idle state, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
2 Automation playback function enters a Run state.
3 One of the conditions set for File save trigger is met.
4 Output of the variable log file is completed.*1 • Variable Log Output Com-
pleted (95750000 hex)
5 Automation playback function enters an Idle state, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
6 Automation playback function enters an Error state.
7 Output of the variable log has failed.
8 Error reset operation is performed.

A-1 State Transitions

9 The Controller changed to a state other than RUN Mode during output
of the variable log.*2
10 Automation playback function enters an Idle state, or the
APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruc-
tion is executed.
11 The setting for automation playback function is changed to Do not
use, or the APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Set-
tings) instruction is executed. A
12 The condition specified for Start trigger is met.
13 Either the time set for Collection time has elapsed, or one of the con-

od
A-1-3 State Transitions in Variable Log Output Based on the Start/Save Trigger Meth-
ditions specified for File save trigger is met before the Collection
time elapses.
14 The condition specified for Start trigger is met.*3
15 The condition specified for Start trigger is met.*3
*1. This includes cases where the collection time is less than the set collection time.
*2. If the Controller changes to a state other than RUN Mode during Storing, output of the variable log will be
aborted and therefore the variable log file will not be output. The state of automation playback function
changes to Idle.
*3. The variable log start time that can be output is updated.

Precautions for Correct Use

Automation playback function continues sampling the variables even after the state is changed
to “Sampled.” Therefore, if you continue the operation in a Sampled state without the save trig-
ger condition met, the old sampling data will be continuously overwritten, and depending on the
timing at which the save trigger condition is met, the start time of the variable log may be shifted
to a later time than when the start trigger condition is met. In such a case, make sure to prompt-
ly establish the save trigger condition.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) A-5

Appendices

A-1-4 Special Notes on State Transition of Variable Log Output

When the APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling Settings) instruction is used to switch the
enabled sampling setting, the variable log output setting associated with that sampling setting is also
switched accordingly, with the enabled setting being disabled and the disabled setting being enabled.
Focusing on the state transition of variable log output, this is as shown in the diagram below.

(1)

(3)
Disabled Stopped Other states
(4)
(2) Sampling

State Transition of Variable Log Output Setting Associated with Enabled Sampling Setting

No. State transition

1 Changes to Stopped with execution of the APB_ChangeSamplingSettings (Change Sampling
Settings) instruction.
2 Changes to Disabled in the course of switch processing.

State Transition of Variable Log Output Setting Associated with Disabled Sampling Setting

No. State transition

3 Changes from Disabled to Stopped in the course of switch processing.
4 Changes to Sampling thereafter.

A-6 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Appendices

A-2 Precautions for Online Editing

The following are precautions for automation playback when you perform online editing.
• If you perform online editing and have the changed user program and variable settings reflected in
the Controller when sampling of the variables has started, the sampling of the variables stops. The
sampling of variables will be resumed when the online editing is completed.
• The variables added during online editing are not included in the sampling target. To include the var-
iables added during online editing in the sampling target, use the synchronization function of the
Sysmac Studio to transfer the settings that contain those for automation playback to the Controller.
• If you use online editing, results of online editing will not be reflected in backups of the project. If you
need a backup of the project after online editing, back up the project again.

A-2 Precautions for Online Editing

A

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) A-7

Appendices

A-3 List of System-defined Variables for

Automation Playback
The following is a list of system-defined variables for automation playback. Refer to the NJ/NX-series
CPU Unit Software User’s Manual (Cat. No. W501) for details on each system-defined variable.

Variable Name Name Description

_APB_Status APB Service Status Indicates the operating status of the
automation playback service.
_APB_LogStatus APB Log Output Status Indicates the operating status of the
variable log output for automation
playback.

A-8 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 Appendices

A-4 Specifications of Playback Data

The specifications of playback data used for playback are as follows.

Type File Save destination

Variable log files .bin files SD Memory Card
Project backup files .dat files SD Memory Card
Video files .mkv files as many as the number Network storage
of cameras

Backup data of variable log files and projects consist of the data (variables and projects) in the Con-
troller when playback is executed, which is specified in Common Setting in the Automation
Playback Settings view.

Time stamps recorded for playback data are the Controller’s clock time according to the time zone set-

A-4 Specifications of Playback Data

ting in Controller Clock.

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) A-9

Appendices

A-5 Version Information for Automation

Playback Functions
Each function of automation playback supports the models and unit versions shown in the table below.

Function Model numbers Unit versions

Automation Playback Settings NX502-1£00 Ver. 1.63
Automation Playback Operation
Monitor
Copying playback data
Playing playback data
Playback chart
Output cause analysis All models All versions
Memory usage

A-10 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

 I
Index

NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639) I-1

Index

Index
A W
Alert for low space in SD Memory Card.......................... 2-10 Watch Tab Page................................................................ 4-6
Automation Playback Operation Monitor........................... 6-9
Axis variable sampling.....................................................2-15

C
comparison source data.................................................. 5-13
comparison target data....................................................5-13
current time line................................................................. 5-3
Cycle with No Variable Sampling (64070000 hex)............ 6-4

E
Ensure free space in SD Memory Card...........................2-10

H
hash code........................................................2-9, 2-21, 2-22

M
Memory Usage tab page................................................ 6-10

N
No Variable Log Concurrency (64060000 hex)................. 6-4

O
online editing..................................................................... A-7
Operation after task period is exceeded..........................2-15

P
Pre/Post trigger method...................................................2-16

S
security............................................................................ 2-24
Start/Save trigger method................................................2-17

T
time series variable graph................................................. 5-3
Trigger method................................................................ 2-16

V
variable log files...............................................................2-21
variable log information files............................................ 2-22
Variable Log Output Completed (95750000 hex).............. 6-7
Variable Log Save Failed (152C000 hex).......................... 6-3
Video Playback window............................................5-3, 5-18

I-2 NX-series CPU Unit Automation Playback User’s Manual (W639)

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