Siemens PANEL PC 877 User Manual

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Operation 
 
10.3 Device with key panel 
 
SIMATIC Panel PC 877 
10-10
 
Operating instructions, Release 07/2006, A5E00877780-01 
10.3.2 
Using the direct control key module 
The direct control key module is a module that is intended for use with the SIMATIC Panel 
PC 877 (exclusively for variants with an integral membrane keyboard). Digital events can be 
assigned to the function keys and softkeys (F1-F20 and S1-S16) of the membrane keyboard 
via this module. This means that a digital input of a PLC can be activated at the press of a 
key over PROFIBUS. The module is implemented as a PROFIBUS DP slave. 
Functionality 
The direct control key module is used to expand the functional scope of the SIMATIC Panel 
PC 877 with the following features: 
• 
Up to 32 function keys/softkeys on the membrane keyboard of the Panel PC can be 
scanned over PROFIBUS as direct keys. 
• 
Up to 16 additional keys from an external operator panel can be connected if required. 
• 
There are 16 digital outputs for activating checkback signal lamps (by the PLC over 
PROFIBUS DP) in external operator panels. 
All direct control keys can be scanned over PROFIBUS DP from the PLC. 
Software control 
At the Panel PC end, the direct control keys are programmed using the "Key pad" software 
tool. The codes for all keys of the Panel PC 877 can be changed using this tool. It can also 
be used to assign the direct control key functionality to all function keys and softkeys of the 
Panel PC. The Key Pad software will be included with the direct control key module on 
diskette as well as on the Documentation and Drivers CD of all Panel PC 877s . 
Mounting 
The direct control key module can be ordered separately from the Panel PC. It can be 
retrofitted in the immediate vicinity of the Panel PC: Either on a standard mounting rail (the 
mounting equipment required is included in the package with the direct control key module) 
or directly using 4 screws on a wall / front panel / control panel. Detailed mounting 
instructions are included with every direct control key module on paper and with every Panel 
PC 877.