Structured Text (ST) is a high level programming language that you can use to define the relationships between values.
ST programs can consist of:
Variables
Input and output values that can change. There are also internal variables which are values that are only used within the ST program. For example, an ST program can read the value of an input (such as the value from a property of a database item), use an internal value to perform a calculation on the input value, then write the result of the calculation to an output value.
Constants
These are special types of value that are used by the ST program. These values are fixed and cannot change (they are constant).
Data Types
There are several types of value. You need to specify which type of value is applicable to each variable. For example, values such as descriptions are STRING values (they contain a string of characters) whereas values from analog points are REAL or LREAL values.
There are built-in data types, also referred to as literals, that you can use to define the type of a value. You can also use derived data types to apply meaningful names to values, group internal values, and form arrays etc.
Methods
These are actions that can be performed by an ST program. For example, an ST program can be created to acknowledge an alarm when a specific condition occurs.
Control Structures
Control structures are used to define the Logic of the ST program. By using keywords and adhering to the formatting rules, you can create a flow of conditions and results. These define the behavior that the ST program provides.
Function Blocks
Function blocks are blocks of code that provide specific functionality, for example, convert a temperature in Celsius to a temperature in Fahrenheit. The function blocks can be used over and over again in each of your Logic programs, including ST programs.
To configure an ST program, you will need an appreciation of the Structured Text standard. As the ST programs are not graphical, some users may find them difficult to work with. However, you need to have an understanding of ST to use it when working with Function Block Diagrams, Sequential Function Charts etc. This is especially true if you need to reference historic data or are using SQL queries.
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We recommend that you familiarize yourself with these sections, even if you do not intend to work with ST programs. By familiarizing yourself with the ST basics, you will find it easier to understand the principles of other types of Logic program.
For information on configuring the various properties of an ST program, see Logic Program Properties and Values.