Software and Hardware needed to talk to a GE 9030 PLC
The GE 9030 PLC family has been around for about 40 years. Improvements to the hardware, software, and computers over that time mean there are different things to consider when communicating to the PLC.
First the Software
There are 3 generations of software that GE used for 9030 systems. (There were other flavors that were private labeled to companies like ASCO or Caterpillar for generators.) We will cover the 3 GE programs.
LogicMaster 90-30: This was a DOS program used in the 80’s, 90’s, and 2000 years. At the end they introduced a version that worked with early versions of windows. No, it does not run on anything after Windows XP. Virtual Machines will work poorly. And there is no support from GE/Emerson on it.
VersaPro Software: This software was a short lived version that came out in 2000. Discontinued a few years later. It required Windows 200 or Windows XP to run and does not work on anything after Windows XP. There is no support for this software. It can not be purchased. It was replaced by Proficy.
Proficy Software: Was released in 2000 and is the software Emerson uses to talk to PLC systems now. The software is available to purchase from your local distributor. The distributor can also support you with training and most offer onsite support too. Cimtec (704) 227-4600 is the Dist for VA, SC, GA, FL, and NC.
The Proficy software is a full featured copy of the software. It will work for about 4 days then require a license. This is plenty of time to back up/ restore a PLC. I suggest you keep the ISO program and your backup from the PLC on a separate USB drive or the company server for safety.
Now that you have software you will need a cable
On all of the 9030 PLC systems the power supply as a connector under a door in the middle with a 15 pin connector under it. This is the gold standard as it talks to the CPU inside the PLC. A newer PLC may have an ethernet port on it. But I stull use serial on service calls because you need to load the PLC with a configuration (The IP address) first before you can use the ethernet port.
The cable for GE SNP communication is Part # ASEA693232SNP: This cable has the DB15 connection on one end (Yes there are IC chips in it) and a DB9 serial cable on the other end. Older PCs’ have a DB9 serial port connector. Newer PCs now use a USB to Serial (DB9) interface. Our part # SAEUMC201R. Most of the time users do not need. Users have had to talk to an HMI, transducer, or some other PLC and have a USB to Serial interface, but if you do not this is the one we have tested and works with GE software.
A comment about support for the above software. If you have a question or two please call Allen. (Number below). I am glad to help. If you are needing advanced Phone or Onsite support we can quote an hourly rate.
For support call Allen at (704) 227-4646. To order cables and hardware call Qualitrol at (800) 784-9385.
