Sigmatek Lasal Class Software: A Complete Guide for Automation Engineers
What is Sigmatek Lasal Class Software?
If you are looking for a powerful and user-friendly engineering tool for your automation projects, you might want to consider Sigmatek Lasal Class Software. This software is part of the Engineering Platform LASAL, which provides an integrated and comprehensive solution for all phases of machine design. With Sigmatek Lasal Class Software, you can create efficient and flexible software for your automation tasks using object-oriented programming and graphical representation.
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software Do
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is designed to handle complex control tasks for various types of machines and systems. It supports the most important programming languages according to IEC 61131-3 standard, such as ST (Structured Text), LD (Ladder Diagram), ANSI-C (C language), Interpreter (a high-level language), and SFC (Sequential Function Chart). It also supports Python, a scripting language that enables the automatic generation and modification of machine software.
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software also provides several graphical tools and editors that make your software development easier and faster. You can use the Hardware Editor to place hardware components as they are mounted in the control cabinet. You can use the Data Analyzer to display signal characteristics in real time. You can use the Visual Object View to reuse your visualization objects from LASAL SCREEN directly in LASAL CLASS. You can use the Scripting tool to create scripts with Python that can generate or modify your software. You can use the Variant Editor to manage different machine configurations in one project.
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software also offers debugging and testing tools that help you find and fix errors in your software. You can use the Online Debugging Tool to monitor and modify variables, set breakpoints, and execute single steps. You can use the LARS Simulation Tool to simulate your software without hardware.
Why use Sigmatek Lasal Class Software for your automation projects?
There are many reasons why you should use Sigmatek Lasal Class Software for your automation projects. Here are some of them:
Integrated engineering: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is part of the Engineering Platform LASAL, which means you can use it together with other tools such as LASAL SCREEN (for visualization), LASAL MOTION (for drive technology), LASAL SAFETYDesigner (for safety technology), LASAL SERVICE (for diagnostics and remote maintenance), and LASAL Machine Manager (for software management). This reduces your development costs and ensures consistency and compatibility across your software components.
Object-oriented design: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software allows you to create software objects that represent real machine components. This makes your software more modular, reusable , and maintainable. You can also use inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation to enhance your software design and functionality.
Control programming: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software supports multiple programming languages that suit different control tasks and preferences. You can use ST for structured and algorithmic programming, LD for graphical and logical programming, ANSI-C for low-level and high-performance programming, Interpreter for high-level and easy-to-learn programming, SFC for sequential and state-based programming, and Python for scripting and automation. You can also mix and match different languages in one project.
Graphical representation: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software provides graphical tools and editors that help you visualize your software components and data. You can use the Hardware Editor to see how your hardware components are connected and configured. You can use the Data Analyzer to see how your signals behave and change over time. You can use the Visual Object View to see how your visualization objects look and interact. You can use the Scripting tool to see how your scripts generate or modify your software. You can use the Variant Editor to see how your machine variants differ and switch.
How to use Sigmatek Lasal Class Software for your automation projects?
In this section, we will show you how to use Sigmatek Lasal Class Software for your automation projects. We will cover the following topics:
Getting started with Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Programming languages supported by Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Graphical tools and editors provided by Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Debugging and testing tools provided by Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Getting started with Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
To get started with Sigmatek Lasal Class Software, you need to install it on your computer. You can download the software from the official website of Sigmatek. You will also need a license key to activate the software. You can request a license key from Sigmatek or from your local distributor. Once you have installed and activated the software, you can launch it from your desktop or start menu.
When you open Sigmatek Lasal Class Software, you will see the main window that consists of several parts: the menu bar, the toolbar, the project explorer, the editor area, the output area, and the status bar. The menu bar contains various commands and options for working with the software. The toolbar contains shortcuts for frequently used commands and functions. The project explorer shows the structure and contents of your current project. The editor area is where you create and edit your software components. The output area shows messages, errors, warnings, and results from your software. The status bar shows information about your software status and progress.
To create a new project, you can go to File > New > Project or click on the New Project icon on the toolbar. You will be asked to enter a name and a location for your project. You will also be asked to select a target system for your project. A target system is a combination of hardware components that run your software. You can choose from a list of predefined target systems or create your own custom target system using the Hardware Editor.
Programming languages supported by Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software supports six programming languages that you can use for your control tasks: ST (Structured Text), LD (Ladder Diagram), ANSI-C (C language), Interpreter (a high-level language), SFC (Sequential Function Chart), and Python (a scripting language). Each language has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the type and complexity of your control task. You can also combine different languages in one project to achieve optimal results.
LanguageDescriptionAdvantagesDisadvantages
STA textual language that uses statements, expressions, operators, variables, data types, functions, etc.- Easy to read and write- Suitable for complex algorithms- Supports object-oriented features- Compatible with IEC 61131-3 standard- Requires good programming skills- Not very intuitive for graphical or logical tasks- Prone to syntax errors
LDA graphical language that uses symbols, contacts, coils, blocks, etc.- Easy to understand and create- Suitable for simple logic- Similar to electrical schematics- Compatible with IEC 61131-3 standard- Not very efficient for complex algorithms- Difficult to reuse or modify- Not compatible with object-oriented features
ANSI-CA textual language that uses statements, expressions, operators, variables, data types, functions, etc.- Very powerful and flexible- Suitable for low-level and high-performance tasks- Supports pointers, structures, unions, etc.- Compatible with ANSI-C standard- Requires advanced programming skills- Not very user-friendly or readable- Prone to memory leaks or segmentation faults
InterpreterA textual language that uses statements, expressions, operators, variables, data types, functions, etc.- Easy to learn and use- Suitable for high-level and general-purpose tasks- Supports dynamic typing, garbage collection, etc.- Compatible with Interpreter standard- Not very efficient or fast- Not compatible with IEC 61131-3 or ANSI-C standards- Limited support for object-oriented features
SFCA graphical language that uses steps, transitions, actions, etc.- Easy to model and control- Suitable for sequential and state-based tasks- Supports parallelism and synchronization- Compatible with IEC 61131-3 standard- Not very expressive or flexible- Difficult to reuse or modify- Not compatible with object-oriented features
PythonA textual language that uses statements, expressions, operators, variables, data types, functions, etc.- Very popular and versatile- Suitable for scripting and automation tasks- Supports multiple paradigms and libraries- Compatible with Python standard- Not native to Sigmatek Lasal Class Software- Requires additional installation and configuration- Prone to indentation errors
Graphical tools and editors provided by Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software provides several graphical tools and editors that help you create and edit your software components and data. Here are some of them:
Hardware Editor: This tool allows you to place hardware components as they are mounted in the control cabinet. You can drag and drop components from the library or the catalog. You can also configure the properties and parameters of each component. The Hardware Editor generates a hardware configuration file that is used by the software.
Data Analyzer: This tool allows you to display signal characteristics in real time. You can select signals from your software or from the hardware. You can also choose different modes of display such as oscilloscope, logic analyzer, FFT analyzer, etc. The Data Analyzer helps you monitor and analyze your software behavior and performance.
Visual Object View: This tool allows you to reuse your visualization objects from LASAL SCREEN directly in LASAL CLASS. You can drag and drop objects from the library or the project. You can also edit the properties and events of each object. The Visual Object View helps you create user interfaces for your software.
Scripting: This tool allows you to create scripts with Python that can generate or modify your software. You can write your own scripts or use predefined scripts from the library. You can also run your scripts manually or automatically. The Scripting tool helps you automate your software development and maintenance.
Variant Editor: This tool allows you to manage different machine configurations in one project. You can create variants based on different criteria such as customer, country, language, etc. You can also assign different values or options to each variant. The Variant Editor helps you customize your software for different markets and customers.
Debugging and testing tools provided by Sigmatek Lasal Class Software
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software also offers debugging and testing tools that help you find and fix errors in your software. Here are some of them:
Online Debugging Tool: This tool allows you to monitor and modify variables, set breakpoints, and execute single steps. You can connect to your target system via Ethernet or USB. You can also use the watch window, the call stack window, the breakpoint window, etc. The Online Debugging Tool helps you debug your software online.
LARS Simulation Tool: This tool allows you to simulate your software without hardware. You can use virtual devices that emulate the behavior of real devices. You can also use the simulation window, the trace window, the event window, etc. The LARS Simulation Tool helps you test your software offline.
What are the advantages of Sigmatek Lasal Class Software over other engineering tools?
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is not the only engineering tool available for automation projects. There are other tools that offer similar or different features and functions. However, Sigmatek Lasal Class Software has some advantages over other engineering tools that make it stand out. Here are some of them:
Functionality: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software provides a wide range of functionality that covers all aspects of machine design. It supports multiple programming languages, graphical tools, debugging and testing tools, and object-oriented design. It also integrates with other tools from the Engineering Platform LASAL, such as LASAL SCREEN, LASAL MOTION, LASAL SAFETYDesigner, LASAL SERVICE, and LASAL Machine Manager. This makes Sigmatek Lasal Class Software a complete and comprehensive solution for your automation projects.
Performance: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software delivers high performance and efficiency for your software. It uses a powerful compiler that optimizes your code and generates native machine code. It also uses a fast interpreter that executes your code without compilation. It also supports parallel processing and multitasking that improve your software speed and responsiveness. It also supports real-time communication and synchronization that ensure your software reliability and accuracy.
Usability: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is easy to use and user-friendly for your software development. It has a clear and intuitive user interface that guides you through the software creation and editing process. It also has a helpful and comprehensive documentation that explains the software features and functions. It also has a friendly and supportive customer service that answers your questions and provides assistance.
Compatibility: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is compatible with various hardware components and devices that run your software. It supports the most common communication protocols and interfaces, such as Ethernet, USB, CANopen, EtherCAT, etc. It also supports various operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, etc. It also supports various standards, such as IEC 61131-3, ANSI-C, Python, etc.
What are the limitations and challenges of Sigmatek Lasal Class Software?
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is not perfect and flawless. It has some limitations and challenges that you might encounter when using it for your automation projects. Here are some of them:
Learning curve: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software has a lot of features and functions that might overwhelm you at first. You might need some time and effort to learn how to use the software effectively and efficiently. You might also need some training and guidance from experts or experienced users.
Cost: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is not cheap or free. You need to pay for the software license and the hardware components that run your software. You might also need to pay for the maintenance and support services that keep your software updated and functional.
Compatibility issues: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software might not be compatible with some hardware components or devices that you want to use for your software. You might need to find alternative solutions or workarounds to make your software work with them. You might also need to update or upgrade your hardware components or devices to match the software requirements.
Bugs and errors: Sigmatek Lasal Class Software might have some bugs or errors that affect your software quality and performance. You might need to debug or test your software frequently and thoroughly to find and fix them. You might also need to report them to Sigmatek or wait for their updates or patches.
How to get support and training for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software?
If you need support or training for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software, you have several resources and options available. Here are some of them:
Documentation: Sigmatek provides a detailed and comprehensive documentation for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software on their website. You can access it online or download it as PDF files. The documentation covers the software features, functions, instructions, examples, tips, etc.
Tutorials: Sigmatek provides several tutorials for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software on their website. You can watch them online or download them as videos or PDF files. The tutorials show you how to use the software step by step for different tasks or scenarios.
Webinars: Sigmatek organizes regular webinars for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software on their website. You can register online and join them live or watch them later as recordings. The webinars present the latest news, updates, trends, best practices, etc., related to the software.
Support center: Sigmatek provides a support center for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software on their website. You can access it online or call them by phone. The support center offers technical support, customer service, software updates, FAQs, etc.
Training courses: Sigmatek provides training courses for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software at their headquarters or at your location. You can book them online or contact them by email or phone. The training courses offer theoretical and practical lessons, exercises, tests, certificates, etc.
Conclusion
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is a powerful and user-friendly engineering tool for your automation projects. It offers a wide range of functionality, performance, usability, and compatibility for your software development and maintenance. It also provides several graphical tools, debugging and testing tools, and object-oriented design features that make your software more efficient and flexible. It also integrates with other tools from the Engineering Platform LASAL that provide a complete and comprehensive solution for your machine design.
If you are interested in using Sigmatek Lasal Class Software for your automation projects, you can download it from the official website of Sigmatek. You can also request a license key from Sigmatek or from your local distributor. You can also get support and training from Sigmatek through their documentation, tutorials, webinars, support center, and training courses.
Sigmatek Lasal Class Software is a great choice for your automation projects. It will help you create software that meets your needs and expectations. It will also help you save time and money and improve your productivity and quality. Try it today and see the difference!
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Sigmatek Lasal Class Software:
What are the system requirements for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software?The system requirements for Sigmatek Lasal Class Software are as follows:- Operating system: Windows 7 or higher- Processor: Intel Core i3 or higher- Memory: 4 GB RAM or higher- Disk space: 10 GB or higher- Graphics: DirectX 9 or higher- Network: Ethernet or USB
How much does Sigmatek Lasal Class Software cost?The cost of Sigmatek Lasal Class Software depends on the type and number of licenses you need. You can choose from different license models such as single-user l