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Virtual Simulation

PiPLC includes a complete virtual I/O simulation environment for testing programs without physical hardware.

Simulation Panel

In simulation mode, the SimulationPanel provides:

  • Toggle inputs: Click to activate/deactivate inputs
  • Force bits: Manual override of any I/O/B address
  • Memory monitor: View values in real time
  • Watch panel: Add specific variables for monitoring

Starting a Simulation

  1. Press ++f5++ to start simulation
  2. Use the simulation panel to toggle inputs
  3. Press ++f6++ to pause, ++f7++ to stop

Forcing I/O

To force a value during simulation:

  1. Right-click on a contact or coil
  2. Select Force ON, Force OFF, or Unforce
  3. Forced bits override the normal scan cycle
  4. A force bitmap tracks all forced addresses

Editing is disabled during simulation

While the simulation is running:

  • Ladder editing is disabled
  • Drag & drop is not allowed
  • Delete/Backspace won't remove elements
  • Right-click shows monitoring/forcing menu instead