We at Control Solutions Minnesota have been promising graphical programming (or visual control programming) for a while. But we had a hard time finding a tool set that was easy to use, worked well, was simple to install, required little or no maintenance, and was powerful and flexible. We also wanted one more thing: Very inexpensive.

We found a number of expensive programming tools. We also found inexpensive drawing tools that had no means of translating a drawing into code. We found lots of fun graphic toys that made very pretty pictures with no resulting functionality. But after a long search, we finally found an open source CAD package that we converted from drawing electronic circuits to drawing programs. Instead of generating a net list for circuit board layout, our version generates code for downloading into a controller. The resulting tool met most of our objectives for graphical programming, and exceeded the rest. We call our new tool i.CanDrawIt®.

We know from experience and customer feedback that the majority of our customers are more comfortable with an electrical schematic than a program source listing. Therefore it was important to us that our graphical programming tool most closely resemble a schematic CAD package rather than something you would find in the IT department. Once we started working with i.CanDrawIt®, even our most experienced software developers quickly found a preference for drawing control diagrams rather than writing control programs just because it saved so much time.

i.CanDrawIt® works just like an electrical schematic CAD program, except you draw control programs that look like circuits. The resulting software will function like the circuit you draw.

i.CanDrawIt® includes visual program simulation as well as visual live debugging where supported by the target device. Set breakpoints or step through the program one visual function block at a time. Update variables and I/O objects in simulation or live.

i.CanDrawIt® is included at no additional cost with every ­ValuPoint® controller, every i.CanDoIt® server, and every ­AddMe® network I/O node from Control Solutions Minnesota.

• No supporting software to buy
• No license fees
• No run-time licenses
• Includes no-fee online support
• No time limits
• No functional limits or disabled features
• Make as many copies as you need

Use free form logic style, ladder logic style, or hybrid mix of styles. Fully customizeable and expandable function block library with source code is included.

Web Site Dedicated to Graphical Programming

We have created a web site dedicated exclusively to graphical programming. Visit www.graphical-programming.com for online instruction in the use of i.CanDrawIt®, information about which devices are supported by i.CanDrawIt®, and to obtain a copy of i.CanDrawIt®. Over time, we will continue to add tutorials and other useful information pertaining to i.CanDrawIt®.

Download now, try before you buy. Already own a Control Solutions device? Just download now and go to work. Our i.CanDrawIt works with the same controllers and network I/O devices we've been shipping since 2007.

Graphical Programming Includes PID Loops

i.CanDrawIt® allows you to quickly create logic. But i.CanDrawIt® also includes PID loops. Both single output and dual output PID function blocks are included in the standard control library. Loop output can be analog, such as 4-20mA loop. Time proportioning function blocks are also available for running discrete outputs in time proportional mode. An applications page is dedicated to PID loops at www.graphical-programming.com.

i.CanDrawIt® is only limited by your imagination and your skills. You can create other complex functions if you have some programming skills. The most typical scenario is that your controls engineer will create new function blocks and write the underlying code, while field technicians will simply drop that block onto the drawing and connect it.

When you have questions that are not covered in online help, on an applications page, or in the user forum, submit a support ticket at www.graphical-programming.com. The most relevant questions will end up on the forum or in an applications note.

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