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Procedure for Configuring Barcode Function on GOT2000

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Procedure for Configuring Barcode Function on GOT2000 (Channels 5-8, RS232/RS485/RS422)

Introduction

The GOT2000 series supports barcode reader connections via various interfaces, including RS232 and USB, but RS485 and RS422 are less commonly used directly for barcode readers due to their multi-drop nature.

The procedure will focus on RS232 (most common for barcode readers) and address RS485/RS422 where applicable, referencing channels 5 to 8 as specified.

The GOT2000 series uses GT Designer3 software for configuration, and barcode readers are typically connected via RS232 or USB, with RS232 being the primary serial interface for channels 5 to 8 (depending on the GOT model and communication units).

RS485/RS422 may require additional hardware (e.g., converters or specific communication modules).

The procedure will cover hardware setup, software configuration, communication settings, and data handling, with notes on channel assignments and interface specifics.

Objective

Configure a GOT2000 series HMI to interface with a barcode reader using RS232, RS485, or RS422 on channels 5 to 8, enabling the HMI to read barcode data and process it for display or PLC interaction.

Prerequisites

  • Hardware :

    • GOT2000 series HMI (e.g., GT27, GT25, or compatible model).
    • Barcode reader with RS232, RS485, or RS422 interface.
    • Appropriate cables (e.g., cross/null modem cable for RS232, terminal block or DB9 for RS485/RS422).
    • Optional: RS232 communication unit (e.g., GT15-RS2-9P) or RS485/RS422 unit (e.g., GT15-RS4-9S) if not built-in.
    • For RS485/RS422: RS232-to-RS485/RS422 converter if the barcode reader uses these protocols.

  • Software :

    • GT Designer3 (latest version).
    • GOT2000 Series Connection Manual (for cable and device compatibility). (use the one in the latest updated e-manual viewer)

  • Knowledge :

    • Familiarity with GT Designer3 project setup.
    • Understanding of serial communication parameters (baud rate, parity, etc.).
    • GOT channel assignments (channels 5-8 typically for serial communication units).

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Verify Hardware Compatibility

  1. Check Barcode Reader :
  • Ensure the barcode reader supports RS232, RS485, or RS422.
  • For RS232: Confirm it uses a DB9 connector and supports asynchronous serial communication (e.g., 9600 bps, 8 bits, no parity, 1 stop bit).
  • For RS485/RS422: Verify multi-drop capability and termination requirements (e.g., 120-ohm resistor for RS485).
  • Confirm the reader outputs data with an “Enter” terminator (configurable in GT Designer3).
  1. Check GOT Model :
  • Verify the GOT2000 model supports serial communication units (e.g., GT27, GT25).
  • Channels 5-8 are typically assigned to optional communication units (e.g., GT15-RS2-9P for RS232, GT15-RS4-9S for RS485/RS422). Refer to the GOT2000 Series Connection Manual for channel assignments.
  1. Select Interface :
  • RS232 : Use the GOT’s RS232 port (built-in or via GT15-RS2-9P) for channels 5-8.
  • RS485/RS422 : Use a GT15-RS4-9S unit or an RS232-to-RS485/RS422 converter (e.g., CON-485/422-EE9).
  • Note: RS485/RS422 is less common for barcode readers due to half-duplex (RS485) or multi-drop (RS422) requirements, so a converter may be needed.
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Step 2: Connect the Barcode Reader

  1. RS232 Connection :

  • Use a cross (null modem) cable with a DB9 connector to connect the barcode reader to the GOT’s RS232 port (e.g., on GT15-RS2-9P for channels 5-8).

  • Pinout example (RS232 DB9):

  • GOT (DB9 female): Pin 2 (RXD), Pin 3 (TXD), Pin 5 (GND).

  • Barcode reader: Match RXD to TXD, TXD to RXD, GND to GND.

  • Ensure the GOT’s RS232 unit is installed in the correct slot (check manual for channel mapping).

  1. RS485/RS422 Connection :

  • If the barcode reader supports RS485/RS422, connect via a GT15-RS4-9S unit or an RS232-to-RS485/RS422 converter.
    For RS485 (2-wire, half-duplex):*

    • Use a terminal block or DB9 male connector on the converter.
    • Connect A (Data+) and B (Data–) to the barcode reader’s corresponding terminals.
    • Enable 120-ohm termination if required (e.g., long-distance or noisy environment).

    For RS422 (4-wire, full-duplex):

    • Connect TX+, TX–, RX+, RX– to the barcode reader’s terminals.
    • Ensure proper grounding to avoid noise.

  1. Assign the connection to channels 5-8 via the GOT’s communication unit slot.

  2. Power Supply :

  • RS232: The GOT cannot supply power to the barcode reader; use an external power source if needed.

  • RS485/RS422: Ensure the converter or barcode reader has an external power supply (e.g., 5-24Vdc).

  1. Verify Connection :
  • Secure all connections and check for proper grounding to prevent ground loops.

Step 3: Configure GT Designer3

  1. Create or Open Project :
  • Launch GT Designer3 (latest version).
  • Open an existing project or create a new one for the GOT2000 model.
  1. Set System Configuration :
  • Go to Project > System Settings > Controller Setting .
  • Select a channel (5-8) for the barcode reader:
    • Channel 5-8 : Assign to the RS232 or RS485/RS422 communication unit (e.g., GT15-RS2-9P or GT15-RS4-9S).
    • Interface : Set to “Barcode” or “General Communication” (depending on model).
    • Manufacturer : Select “General” or “Barcode Reader” (non-PLC device).
  1. Configure Communication Parameters :
  • In the Controller Setting , click the channel (e.g., Channel 5) and set:
    • Interface Type : RS232, RS485, or RS422 (based on hardware).
    • Baud Rate : Match the barcode reader’s setting (e.g., 9600 bps, common for RS232).
    • Data Bits : 8 bits.
    • Parity : None.
    • Stop Bits : 1 bit.
    • Flow Control : None (or hardware/software if required by the reader).
  1. For RS485/RS422:
  • Set to half-duplex (RS485) or full-duplex (RS422).
  • Configure device address if multi-drop (RS485 supports up to 32 devices).
  • Enable data flow control (e.g., RTS/CTS for RS485).

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  1. Enable Barcode Function :
  • Go to Common > Peripheral Setting > Barcode .
  • Check Use Barcode and assign it to the selected channel (5-8).
  • Set the terminator to “Enter” (CR, ASCII 0x0D) to match the barcode reader’s output.
  • Specify the storage device (e.g., GD registers, such as GD100) for barcode data.
  1. Configure I/O Signals :
  • Assign internal GOT registers for barcode data handling:
    • Data Storage : Use GD registers (e.g., GD100-GD109) to store barcode strings.
    • Status Flags : Use GB registers (e.g., GB50 for read completion, GB51 for error).
  1. Example:
  • GD100: Stores barcode data (ASCII string).
  • GB50: ON when data is successfully read.
  • Refer to the GOT2000 Series Manual for specific register mappings.
  1. Save and Download :
  • Save the project.
  • Download the configuration to the GOT via USB or Ethernet (use the FA Transparent function if needed).

Step 4: Program Barcode Data Handling

  1. Create Screen for Barcode Data :
  • In GT Designer3, create a screen (e.g., Base Screen 1).
  • Add a Numerical Display or Text Display object to show barcode data.
  • Link the object to the storage register (e.g., GD100).
  1. Set Up Triggers :
  • Use a Bit Trigger (e.g., GB50) to update the display when new barcode data is received.
  • Example: When GB50 turns ON, refresh the Text Display with GD100’s value.
  1. Handle Errors :
  • Monitor error flags (e.g., GB51) to display communication errors.
  • Add a Text Output object to show error messages (e.g., “Barcode Read Failed”).
  1. PLC Integration (Optional) :
  • If the barcode data needs to be sent to a PLC:
    • Use GOT’s PLC communication channel (e.g., Channel 1 for MELSEC PLC).
    • Write GD100 to a PLC register (e.g., D100) using a script or data transfer function.
    • Example Script:
      image
  1. Test Screen :
  • Simulate the screen in GT Designer3 to verify data display and triggers.

Step 5: Test the Barcode Function

  1. Power On :
  • Power on the GOT, barcode reader, and any converters.
  1. Scan a Barcode :
  • Use the barcode reader to scan a test barcode.
  • Verify that the data appears on the GOT screen (e.g., in the Text Display).
  1. Check Status :
  • Monitor GB50 (read completion) and GB51 (error) via GT Designer3’s Device Monitor or GOT diagnostics.
  • For RS485/RS422, ensure no data collisions occur (proper addressing and timing).
  1. Troubleshoot :
  • If no data:
    • Check cable connections and pin assignments.
    • Verify baud rate and communication parameters.
    • Ensure the barcode reader’s terminator is set to “Enter”.
  1. For RS485/RS422:
  • Check termination resistors and device addresses.
  • Verify RTS/CTS timing for half-duplex communication.

Notes on Channels 5-8 and Interfaces

  • Channel Assignments :

    • Channels 5-8 are typically reserved for optional communication units (e.g., GT15-RS2-9P for RS232, GT15-RS4-9S for RS485/RS422).
    • Confirm channel mapping in the GOT2000 Series Connection Manual, as it varies by model (e.g., GT27 vs. GT25).

  • RS232 :

    • Most barcode readers use RS232 due to its simplicity and full-duplex nature.
    • Channels 5-8 support RS232 via add-on units or built-in ports (check GOT model).

  • RS485/RS422 :

    • RS485 (half-duplex, 2-wire) and RS422 (full-duplex, 4-wire) are uncommon for barcode readers but supported via GT15-RS4-9S or converters.

    • RS485 requires careful data flow control (e.g., RTS/CTS) to avoid collisions.

    • RS422 supports longer distances (up to 500m) but is limited to one commander (GOT) and multiple listeners (barcode readers).

    • Use converters (e.g., CON-485/422-EE9) if the barcode reader only supports RS485/RS422.

  • Limitations :

    • RS485-based daisy-chained barcode readers are not supported for automatic ID assignment functions, unlike RS232.

    • Ensure GT Designer3 supports the barcode reader’s protocol (e.g., ASCII output with “Enter” terminator).

Troubleshooting Tips

  • No Data Received :

    • Verify cable pinout (RS232: cross cable; RS485: A/B wiring).
    • Check baud rate and terminator settings.
    • Test the barcode reader with a PC terminal (e.g., HyperTerminal) to confirm output.

  • RS485/RS422 Issues :

    • Ensure unique device addresses for multi-drop setups.
    • Check termination resistors (120 ohms) for long cables or high baud rates.
    • Monitor RTS/CTS signals for proper data flow.

  • Channel Errors :

    • Confirm the communication unit is correctly installed and mapped to channels 5-8.
    • Use GOT’s diagnostics (System Launcher) to check channel status.

References

  • First and foremost E-manual viewer
  • Mitsubishi Electric GOT2000 Series Connection Manual (for cable and channel details).
  • Mitsubishi FAQ on GOT2000 barcode reader connection (USB and RS232 requirements).
  • Serial communication standards (RS232, RS485, RS422 differences).
  • RS232/485/LAN Serial Communication Control Manual (communication parameters and RS485 limitations).
  • Industrial RS232-to-RS485/RS422 converter specifications.
    https://dl.mitsubishielectric.com/dl/fa/document/manual/got/sh081199eng/sh081199engal.pdf