Patent ID: 7890212

Claim:
A method for configuring a programmable logic controller, comprising: initiating a wizard at a computer when the computer is not communicatively coupled to the programmable logic controller, the wizard adapted for: determining when the programmable logic controller is communicatively coupled to the computer; retrieving parameter data from the programmable logic controller for an application of the programmable logic controller in response to determining that the programmable logic controller is communicatively coupled to the computer; automatically range checking the parameter data; pre-loading, through the wizard, one or more options for a configuration of the application of the programmable logic controller based on position parameter data retrieved from the programmable logic controller; querying for a plurality of answers regarding the application of the programmable logic controller; and based on the position parameter data retrieved, the pre-loaded one or more options, and the answers, generating at least one configuration adapted to configure a position module and at least one set of instructions executable by the programmable logic controller, the position module distinct from, and communicatively connected to the programmable logic controller, the position module adapted to generate a pulse train, the pulse train adapted to control motion of at least one of a stepper drive, servo drive, stepper motor, servomotor, linear motor, motor, ball screw, servo valve, hydraulic actuator, and pneumatic valve based on the at least one configuration, the pulse train generated responsive to an output polarity of the pulse train provided by a user via the wizard.