To transfer files via FTP, you either need a PLC to control the file transfer or you can use the script function.
A PLC provides more flexibility:
Using the script function |
Using a PLC |
|---|---|
|
|
Enable the FTP client function and make the file transfer settings.
Use FTPC: Use this toggle switch to enable the FTP client function.
First control register: Specify the start address of the control registers used in the PLC to trigger an action.
Last control register: This address is calculated based on the specified control register.
Polling time: Set the interval in seconds to poll the PLC's control registers.
A low value (e.g. 1s) will cause high data traffic. We recommend a value between 3s and 7s.
Transfer mode: We recommend Passive mode.
FTP uses two different ports for the transmission of commands and for the actual file transfer. In Passive mode, the client initiates both the data connection and the command connection with the server. In Active mode, the server initiates the data connection after the client has established the command connection. This may present a problem if ports on the client side are closed or blocked, e.g. by a firewall.
Data storage location: To store transmitted files in the location specified on the Data Logger page, select Use storage location set in data logger.
Files in the storage location are not automatically deleted. Monitor memory usage, especially when file names change and existing files are not overwritten.
Server (IP address or host name): Enter the IP address or host name of the server. If you leave this text field empty, the server's IP address or host name is read from the PLC function block.
Server port: Set the port number of the server.
Login user name: Enter the user name to log into the FTP server (max. 40 characters).
Login password: Enter the password to log into the FTP server (max. 40 characters).
Server path: Enter the default file path on the server where the files should be stored. If you do not specify a path, the files will be transferred to the default root folder of the server.
Use FTPS: Use this toggle switch to enable the FTPS function (FTP over SSL) and encrypt your connection.
If possible, you should always use FTPS, especially in wide-area networks without VPN connection.
The following certificates are supported:
The file name must be ca.xxx, client.xxx, or key.xxx (e.g. ca.crt, client.crt, or key.pem).
If official certificates are used, turn the toggle switch on. To upload a certificate from the PC to the FP-I4C unit, drag a file onto the drag and drop area or select a file with the + icon and then select the cloud icon. You can upload all three certificates at the same time.
When you have changed any settings, a Save button appears in the upper right corner of the screen. You can make changes on multiple pages and then save your settings.
To reset all settings on the current page to the default configuration, select the Reset button at the bottom of the page.