Souped-up tool handles smart drives

Control Techniques has launched a new version of its SyPT tool for programming and configuring single and multiple drive installations. Changes include a new user interface and improved support for intelligent drives, which are displacing traditional PLC- and PC-based control systems. There is also a free version for programming single Unidrive SPs.

SyPT was launched in 1995. The latest SyPTPro version contains more than a million lines of software code and more than 200 function blocks including timers, counters and advanced position controls. Enhanced compiler and compression technologies allow bigger programs than before to be executed on CT drives.

Support for installations with several distributed drives has been enhanced, and there are improvements to the way networks of drives communicate and are represented graphically. New tools allow networks to be configured and optimised more easily.

Faster serial protocols are now supported, as well as routing from RS-485 to Control Techniques` deterministic, high-speed network, CTNet. This allows a PC to program and monitor a CTNet network without needing a special card.

SyPTPro uses IEC-compliant ladder and function block programming languages as well as CT`s own high-level Drive Programming Language, which is optimised for drive applications and real-time machine control. A new function allows libraries of function blocks to be created and distributed in a binary form.

The free SyPTLIte version allows users to program single drives and on-board PLCs, and provides full access to drive parameters.