PanelPilotACE Support
Need help getting the most out of your PanelPilot ACE display? You’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find quick links to essential tools; like the Design Studio, Device Updates and Interface Templates, plus a handy FAQ section to troubleshoot common questions.
Quick Links
Connectors & Physical Setup
What connectors are required for PanelPilotACE displays?
Download our connector guide here or get in touch if you have questions.
Where can I find the mounting bracket shown in the datasheet?
The mounting bracket is included in the product packaging; you’ll find it beneath the white tray that holds the device securely in place.
Communication & Protocols
Does PanelPilotACE support the CAN bus protocol?
Yes, CAN bus is supported on the SGD 70-A model when used with the S70-CAN add-on board. Please note that CAN bus functionality is not available on the SGD 43-A.
What CAN protocols are supported with the S70-CAN board?
The J1939 protocol.
How many CAN channels are available on the S70-CAN board?
One channel.
What protocols are supported over RS485?
PanelPilotACE currently supports ASCII-based raw data and MODBUS protocols over RS485. Additional protocol support, such as CAN bus, is under development. If there’s a specific protocol you’d like us to consider, please get in touch with our team.
What do the jumpers do on the RS485 add-on board?
The jumpers on the RS485 add-on board configure key hardware settings:
+ PL1 lets you choose which additional pin will be used for RS485 communication; either PWM3 or DIG8 (marked as PWM and DIO on the board).
+ PL2 is used to connect or disconnect the terminating resistor, depending on your system requirements.
How do I configure RS485 in Design Studio?
SGD 43-A:
To enable RS485 on the SGD 43-A, open your project settings and scroll to the bottom of the properties editor. Enable the “RS485” option. This will automatically disable PWM1 and PWM2, and you’ll need to choose a third pin—Digital Channel 8 or PWM Output 3—which will also be disabled for RS485 use. Make sure the jumper on the RS485 add-on board is set to match your pin choice. Once configured, RS485 can be used just like RS232, by selecting an RS485 COM Port in your project.
SGD 70-A:
The SGD 70-A has built-in RS485 support through dedicated pins, so there’s no need for additional configuration or hardware. Simply select an RS485 COM Port in Design Studio and use it as you would RS232.
How do I use RS232 communication in Design Studio?
RS232 communication in Design Studio uses three elements: a Serial COM Port (hardware), and RS-232 Send and Receive elements (functions). You’ll need to set standard properties like baud rate and choose a service type (Native for device-to-device, Terminal for basic communication).
Use the Send element to transmit values, and the Receive element to detect incoming data using a unique command (alias) and a defined separator and terminator. Values received can be stored and used in your project just like any other variable.
Device Capabilities & Limitations
Is it possible to output a 4–20mA signal from a PanelPilotACE device?
Yes, but not directly. PanelPilotACE devices do not output 4–20mA natively, you’ll need an external interface to convert the PWM signal to a 4–20mA output. Compatible third-party converters are available; feel free to contact us for recommendations.
Why aren’t I²C and SPI options available in the software?
I²C and SPI are not currently available in the software, but our development team is actively working to add support. These features are a high priority and are expected in an upcoming update.
Testing & Emulation
Is there a way to test projects without wiring to a device?
Yes. The SGD 43-A-DK+ development kit includes a display and simulates all the inputs and outputs of the SGD 43-A device. It features adjustable analogue inputs via dials, digital inputs controlled by switches, and status LEDs to show digital, PWM, and alarm outputs. This allows you to test and debug your projects without needing to wire to an actual device. The kit also includes screw terminals for quick connection of real signals if needed.
Why aren’t my graphics aligned the same on the screen as in the emulator?
The emulator and the actual embedded display use different rendering engines, which can cause slight variations in graphic positioning. While usually minor and unnoticeable, these differences can sometimes affect elements like needle rotation, resulting in small alignment discrepancies.
Can I use animated GIFs in PanelPilotACE projects?
Yes the PanelPilotACE does support animated GIF’s!
Software Installation & Updates
Can I install PanelPilotACE Design Studio on multiple PCs?
PanelPilotACE Design Studio is free to use and can be installed on any number of PCs. However, you may not sell, reverse engineer, or modify the software.
How do I update my PanelPilotACE for compatibility with the latest Design Studio version?
After installing the latest Design Studio, you can use its automatic update feature to upgrade your device software. Connected devices needing updates will show a cog icon, just click it and follow the prompts. Alternatively, you can manually update by selecting “Upgrade Device Software” from the device menu (three-line icon).
How do I assign a MAC address to a PanelPilotACE display?
1. Open the PanelPilotACE Design Studio software with an active internet connection.
2. Ensure your device has the necessary Ethernet hardware—this is built into the SGD 70-A or requires an add-on board for the SGD 43-A.
3. Connect your PanelPilotACE device to the PC via USB. In the Design Studio, click the device menu (burger icon) in the top-right corner and select Device Configuration.
4. If no MAC address is assigned, the field will be empty or show zeros. Check the box next to Get MAC Address to request a new address from the PanelPilot server. This process may take a few minutes.
5. Click Configure to apply the MAC address and reboot the device.
6. After reboot, verify the assigned MAC address by selecting Hardware Information from the device menu.
Interface Design & Custom Elements
How can I implement a spinner to control a variable?
The Design Studio software (from version 2 onward) includes a maths builder feature that allows you to create spinner controls to adjust variables. You can set this up within your project by using the maths builder to increment or decrement values as needed.
Can I request a configuration that’s not available in the PanelPilot software?
Absolutely! Through our PanelPilot Custom Design service, we can create bespoke configurations tailored specifically to your needs. Please get in touch with our sales team for more details.
Settings
How do I change my device clock time?
Connect your device to the PanelPilotACE Design Studio and select it from the device dropdown in the top right. Click the menu button (three horizontal lines) next to the device selector and choose “Device Configuration.” Check the “Set Real Time Clock” box, adjust the time zone if needed (e.g., +1 for GMT+1), then click “Configure” to update your device.