Micromod Micro-DCI: 53MC5000 Multi-Loop Process Controller CUSTOMIZATION GUIDE - Manual (Page 8)

2.0 F-TRAN PROGRAMMING
2.1 Description
An F-TRAN program is written as a sequence of language statements combined with necessary
system routines to adapt the program to the application. The arithmetic logic unit in the Controller
is capable of performing mathematical functions; such as, addition, subtraction, division, multiplica-
tion, square root, 2
x
, Y
x
, and Log to the Base 2. Concise symbolic notation is used to represent the
information and describe the input, output, arithmetic and logical operations involved. Typical pro-
grams include routines and instructions that handle input and output operations, perform conver-
sions, and provide for display of selected data.
When developing the software program, the programmer must use commands that are recognized
by the F-TRAN compiler. The compiler (language processor) serves to convert the source program
into a machine format that the computer can use. The F-TRAN symbols are composed of "oper-
ands" representing numerical values or logical states, and "operators" representing mathematical
or logical functions. In addition to the standard mathematical symbols, operators are included that
perform data transformations, as discussed subsequently.
A sequence of F-TRAN language statements constitute a routine to perform a specific function.
Groups of routines and assignment statements compose the entire executable source program. In
most control applications, the majority of the program can be created by selecting a series of prede-
fined, self-contained subroutines from the subroutine library.
When errors become apparent during the development phase, correct them at once. Testing is
necessary to determine if something has been overlooked. Even when a program appears to be
working properly, check it carefully with test data before placing the Controller in service.
In general it is suggested that the programmer make the flow of the program proceed down the
page (top to bottom). When the program has been flow charted, correlating it with the program cod-
ing is helpful. Experienced programmers may prefer to write the source program as plain language
statements and then transpose that into the F-TRAN form. In either case, use comments liberally
throughout the program to indicate what individual statements or groups of statements do. This
technique will simplify tracking program logic.
This Customization Guide describes the syntax of the F-TRAN language . The actual procedure
used to create, compile and load programs vary with the particular development environment. The
three environments currently supporting this controller are the model 53HC3300D Custom Pro-
gram Interface, model 53SU5000 SUPERVISOR-PC with Revision 3 Software or later and the
model 53MT6000 Micro-Tools configuration tool. Refer to the respective Instruction Bulletins for
these products for the detailed procedures.
MODULAR CONTROLLER CUSTOMIZATION GUIDE
2-1