I’m currently evaluating the possibility of remotely performing a complete erase of the SLX module programming on B&R systems (for instance, CPUs of the CPx04 or PPC7 series, typically gray CPUs without external memory). The reasons for this could include hardware repurposing for another project or scenarios involving lost safety key passwords.
After reviewing the Automation Studio 4.12 documentation, it’s unclear if the same procedures valid for hardware equipped with external CF cards (e.g., X20CP1584 or PP65) can also be applied to CPUs without external memory storage. Additionally, the documented procedure specifically mentions local execution.
Could you confirm whether:
It is technically possible or supported by B&R to perform this complete SLX programming erase remotely?
If remote erasure isn’t possible and a local procedure is mandatory, is the documented procedure for CF cards also applicable to USB devices?
Thank you very much for your clarification and guidance.
I’m a little confused by your question, but here is some information that may help.
There are two ways I know of to erase the safety project from an SLX safety controller.
The SafeDESIGNER Remote Control
The SfDomain library (in mappSafety) or the AsSafety library (in legacy safety).
Both of these options can be triggered remotely. The SfDomain library can wipe the SLX from code, so you could trigger that however you wanted, and you could theoretically establish a connection via SafeDESIGNER over a VPN or SiteManager.
I’m not sure what the internal vs. external memory of the main PLC has to do with this. If I’m misunderstanding your question, let me know!
My request assumes that we don’t have the safety password module, so the first option isn’t useful in this case.
The library option also implies knowledge of the safety password (error 36108, Help section 4.12). Correct ?
In the AS 4.12 Help (4.12.6.52) under Safety Technology → Programming → SafeDesigner → Project Protection for projects and safety controller, at the end of the page, you can find instructions for resetting the controller password via the operating instructions for SafeLogic X, specifically the “Generating CompactFlash Data” section.
However, in this help section, there is no mention of USB devices, no reference to hardware modules marked as “grey” without memory, and no indication of remote operation capabilities.
This raises my doubts, as yesterday I found myself in exactly this situation.
Ah I understand now, sorry. I believe that section is just saying that you can reset the safety module by doing an initial install of the “grey” PLC (i.e. via an offline install to the compact flash card).
Most of my safety experience is with the X90 safety controller, which doesn’t have removable memory and formats the safety controller on an initial install. I wasn’t 100% sure that the SLX worked the same way initially, but have since confirmed that to be the case.
You could initiate this initial installation via a USB install, or an online transfer from Automation Studio. Both of these options could be done remotely (but the USB install requires someone to physically insert the USB stick into the controller of course).
Of course, keep in mind that an initial installation will not only reset the safety password, but also wipe both the safe and non-safe programs, as well as any user files. In order to use the SLX again, you’ll have to recommission a safety program.
