18 Automation Control Environment (ACE)Version 4
User's Manual
24000-000 Rev. H
Chapter 1: Introduction
Because the Emulation Mode application is created with virtual hardware, you can
experiment with different robot cell designs and layouts before purchasing the physical
hardware.
lTraining without products or hardware
The emulated environment provides a convenient and low-risk method for training tech-
nicians, operators, and other system users.
Emulation Mode Differences
Emulation Mode has the following differences when compared to operating while connected to
physical hardware.
Additional Information: Other minor Emulation Mode differences not listed
below exist. These are noted in the related sections of this document.
lSaving data to the emulated controller is not supported.
When Emulation Mode is enabled, ACE software creates a new emulated-controller file
system in a temporary folder. When ACE software is shut down, that file system is
deleted which means the contents of any user-created folders, files, or data will also be
deleted. You should save your data in a PC folder and/or with the ACE project to avoid
loss of data.
lNo automatic import of robots when creating a new controller.
When Emulation Mode is enabled, the Create a New Controller wizard does not auto-
matically import robots. It prompts you to select the robot(s) connected to the controller
instead.
lSome controller and robot configuration items are disabled.
When Emulation Mode is enabled, certain Controller Settings and Robot Object con-
figuration items are not available. Those items are dimmed or hidden to indicate that
they are not available. Refer to Controller Settings on page 185 and Robot Objects on
page 208 for more information.
lI/Osignals are managed differently.
In Emulation Mode, you can use the Digital I/O window to set input signals. Refer to
Task Status Control on page 122 for more information.
lRobot-to-hardware calibrations use the 3DVisualizer.
In Emulation Mode, the robot-to-hardware calibrations and project referencing pro-
cedures are different. When Emulation Mode is enabled, these procedures use the 3D
Visualizer display to allow for offline calibration and configuration. Refer to Process
Manager Object on page 352 for more information.
lThe Belt object control, speed, and latch settings are different.
When Emulation Mode is enabled wizards allow use of belt control signals even if Act-
ive Control is disabled, fast and slow speed settings are used, and the Latch Period gen-
erates a new latch at each distance interval of belt travel. Refer to Belt Object on page
341 for more information.
lThe Virtual Camera configuration is different.