Backing Up and Restoring Data to an SD Card Using DIP Switches
Many industrial and automation systems use SD memory cards for data backup and restoration. In some cases, a communication control unit with DIP switches provides an easy and reliable method for performing these operations. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to back up and restore data using the DIP switch method. Note that
Information
This guide only applies when using the NX-CSG safety network controller with a NX-SL5 series CPU.
Backing Up Data to an SD Card
Preparations
- Insert a compatible SD memory card into the communication control unit.
- Set the DIP switches as follows:
- Switch 1: OFF
- Switch 2: OFF
- Switch 3: ON
- Switch 4: OFF
Executing the Backup
- Press and hold the SD memory card power supply switch for 3 seconds.
- Once the backup begins, the SD PWR indicator will light up, turn off briefly (0.5 seconds), and then light up again.
- During the backup process:
- The SD PWR indicator will flash (on for 3 seconds, off for 0.5 seconds).
- The SD BUSY indicator will flash irregularly.
- The system-defined variable
_BackupBusy
will change toTRUE
.
Completing the Backup
- When the backup is complete, the SD PWR indicator will remain lit.
- Set all DIP switches (1-4) to OFF.
- Press the SD memory card power supply switch to turn off the SD PWR indicator.
- Remove the SD memory card if needed.
Restoring Data from an SD Card
Preparations
- Turn OFF the power supply to the communication control unit.
- Insert the SD memory card containing the backup file.
- Set the DIP switches as follows:
- Switch 1: OFF
- Switch 2: OFF
- Switch 3: ON
- Switch 4: ON
Executing the Restore
- Turn ON the power supply to the communication control unit.
- The restore process begins automatically, and the SD PWR indicator will:
- Flash (on for 3 seconds, off for 0.5 seconds) during the process.
- The RUN indicator will also flash.
- The SD BUSY indicator will flash irregularly.
Completing the Restore
- Once the restore is complete, the SD PWR indicator will stop flashing and remain lit.
- Press the SD memory card power supply switch to turn off the SD PWR indicator.
- Turn OFF the power supply to the communication control unit.
Starting Normal Operation
- Remove the SD memory card.
- Set all DIP switches (1-4) to OFF.
- Turn ON the power supply to the communication control unit.
Verification of Backup Data
To verify whether the backup data matches the controller data:
- Insert the SD memory card into the communication control unit.
- Set all DIP switches (1-4) to OFF.
- Press the SD memory card power supply switch for 3 seconds.
- The verification process will start, and the SD PWR indicator will:
- Flash (on for 3 seconds, off for 0.5 seconds).
- If the data matches, the SD PWR indicator will stop flashing and stay lit.
- If differences are found, the SD PWR indicator will flash (on for 0.5 seconds, off for 0.5 seconds).
Conclusion
Using DIP switches to manage SD card backups and restores is a straightforward and effective method for handling critical system data. Always ensure that:
- The SD card is properly inserted.
- The correct DIP switch settings are used.
- The power cycle steps are followed correctly.
By following these steps, you can safely back up, restore, and verify your system data without using a computer interface.