Pro face GP370 Complete Guide

Pro face GP370 series human-machine interface: a complete technical manual from installation to troubleshooting

In industrial automation sites, the Human Machine Interface (HMI) serves as a bridge for communication between operators and equipment. The Pro face GP370 series (including monochrome LCD model GP370-LG and STN color LCD model GP370-SC) is widely used in small and medium-sized control systems due to its compact design, high protection level, and strong communication compatibility. This article is based on the original factory technical manual and provides a full process operation guide for automation engineers and maintenance technicians, covering hardware installation, system initialization, communication configuration, daily operation, and fault diagnosis.

Chapter 1: Product Overview and Selection Points

The GP370 series offers two display types: GP370-LG (monochrome, black and white display) and GP370-SC (STN color, 8-color display). Both have the same external dimensions (170W × 138H × 57D mm), weigh less than 900g, and use a resolution of 320 × 240 pixels and an effective display area of 115 × 86 mm.

1.1 Core Performance Parameters

Display and Backlight: Monochrome models support white/black and reverse display; The color model supports eight colors including white, red, blue, green, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, as well as mixed colors with flat patterns. The backlight is a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CFL) with a lifespan of approximately 20000 hours at room temperature.

Touch panel: 16 × 12 keys/screen, supports single or two-point touch, with touch buzzer feedback (can be set to turn on/off).

Memory: Built in FLASH EPROM 1 Mbyte, can store up to 320 images when the standard screen size is about 3.2 KB.

Clock accuracy: The monthly error at room temperature is ± 40 seconds, but it may increase to+65 to -350 seconds per month with temperature rise and aging.

External interface:

Serial interface: RS-232C/RS-422, data length 7/8 bits, stop bit 1/2 bits, parity check none/odd/even, baud rate 2400-38400 bps.

Tool connector: TTL level RS-232C, used for downloading screen data, connecting barcode scanners or memory loaders.

Expansion interface: Reserved for future expansion.

1.2 Environment and Protection

Working temperature: 0~50 ℃; Storage temperature: -20~60 ℃.

Humidity: 20-85% RH (no condensation).

Protection level: The front panel is equivalent to JEM1030 IP65f and NEMA # 250 TYPE4X/12, which means it is completely dust-proof, direct water spray proof, and oil proof ("f" represents oil proof). However, it should be noted that long-term exposure to volatile oils or low viscosity cutting oils may still cause damage; The rubber gasket needs to be replaced regularly after aging to maintain its protective performance.

Anti vibration: 10-25 Hz, 30 minutes in X/Y/Z directions, acceleration 2G.

Anti interference: noise voltage of 1000 Vp-p, pulse width of 1 μ s, rise/fall time of 1 ns.

Grounding: Grounding resistance below 100 Ω.

1.3 Optional Accessories

Screen editing software: GP-PRO/PB III (DOS version) or GP-PRO/PB III for Windows 95 (CD-ROM or floppy disk), including download cable.

Communication cables: RS-232C cable (GP410-IS00-O), RS-422 cable (GP230-IS11-O), multi link cable (GP230-IS12-O), Siemens Simatic S5 programming port cable (GP000-IS11-O), Mitsubishi A-series programming port cable (GP430-IP10-O), Mitsubishi FX series programming port cable (GP430-IP11-O), Mitsubishi A-series dual port adapter (GP030-MD11-O).

Maintenance components: Backlight tube (GP370-BL00-MS, suitable for LG and SC models), mounting bracket (GP070-AT00-MS), rubber gasket (GP370-WP00-MS), screen protector film (GP370-COVER-20P, 20 sheets/set).

Tool connector attachment: Memory loader (GP070-MU01-O, used for high-speed copying of system programs and screen data, but cannot be used for system versions 1.20 and above).

Chapter 2: Hardware Installation and Wiring - The Foundation for Ensuring Reliable Operation

2.1 Mechanical installation requirements

GP370 is designed for panel embedded installation. The opening size should refer to the installation dimension diagram (Section 2.5) in the manual. Key requirements:

Panel thickness: 1.6 mm~5.0 mm, the surface should be smooth and free of burrs.

Rubber gasket: Before installation, it is necessary to confirm that the gasket is correctly attached to the back of the GP.

Installation bracket: Use the 4 metal brackets provided, hook them into the slots on both sides of the GP from the back of the panel, and tighten them with a screwdriver to a torque of 0.5-0.6 N · m.

Heat dissipation distance: To ensure natural convection cooling, GP should maintain a distance of at least 100 mm from other structural components. If installed horizontally or laterally, forced air cooling (such as a fan) is required. When installing sideways, the power terminal must face upwards.

Panel inclination: During natural cooling installation, the panel inclination should not exceed 30 °.

Avoid heat sources: Keep away from equipment that is prone to arcing, such as electromagnetic circuits and circuit breakers without fuses.

2.2 Power Wiring

Input voltage: DC 20.4~27.6 V (rated 24 VDC), power consumption less than 20 W (typical 10 W).

Terminal: The power terminal block is located on the back of the GP and uses a circular terminal (JST V2-MS3 is recommended) with a maximum cross-sectional area of 2 mm ² for the wire.

Grounding: The FG terminal must be grounded, and dedicated grounding (grounding resistance<100 Ω) should be preferred; If dedicated use is not possible, public grounding can be used. The cross-sectional area of the grounding wire should be greater than 2 mm ² and as short as possible. Attention: If the equipment works abnormally after grounding, try disconnecting the FG terminal (floating).

Wiring steps: Power off → Remove terminal cover → Loosen three screws → Insert ring terminal → Tighten screws (torque 0.5~0.6 N · m) → Replace cover.

2.3 Signal line isolation

The input/output signal line must be routed separately from the power control cable. If unavoidable, shielded cables should be used and the shielding layer should be connected to the ground of the GP rack.

2.4 Precautions for using tool connectors

Before plugging or unplugging the download cable or barcode reader, be sure to turn off the GP power.

If the barcode reader uses an independent power supply, the barcode reader power should be turned on first, and then the GP power should be turned on; When shutting down, turn off GP first, and then turn off the barcode reader.

Chapter 3: Offline Mode and System Initialization - Core Operations for First Power On

GP370 has no screen data when it leaves the factory, and for the first use, system files and screen data must be transferred through screen editing software. Off line mode is the entry point for initialization settings, self diagnosis, and image transmission.

3.1 Methods for entering offline mode

Method 1 (enter when powered on): Within 10 seconds after turning on the power, touch the top left corner of the screen.

Method 2 (Force Reset): In either running or offline mode, simultaneously press and hold the bottom right, top right, and bottom left corners of the screen to enter the Force Reset screen, and then press the "OFFLINE" button.

If a password has been set in the system settings (range 0~9999, default 0 is no password), the password needs to be entered before entering offline mode.

3.2 Main menu functions

The offline mode main menu contains four options:

Initialize: Set various parameters required for GP operation (communication, PLC, system environment, etc.).

Transfer Screen Data: Transfer screen data between PC and other devices.

SELF-DIagnoSIS: Detect GP system and interface faults.

RUN: Start normal operation and communicate with PLC.

3.3 Initialization Menu Explanation

The initialization menu is divided into 1:1 connection (one GP connected to one PLC) and n:1 multi link connection (multiple GPs sharing one PLC). The following are the key submenus:

3.3.1 System Environment Setup

Standby mode time (0-255 minutes): Screen saver function, automatically turns off display after no operation exceeds the set time. 0 indicates constant brightness.

Start time (0-255 seconds): The delay in entering the running mode after GP is powered on, used to wait for the PLC to start first.

Touch buzzer sound: on/off.

Buzzer terminal output: whether the buzzer signal is output from the AUX I/F (external buzzer).

Password setting: Prevent unauthorized access to offline mode.

Screen number data type: Select BIN (screen numbers 1~8999) or BCD (screen numbers 1~1999).

3.3.2 System Area Setup

Used to allocate a data area in PLC for GP to read and write status information (such as current screen number, error status, clock data, switching screen number, display switch, etc.). The size of the system area is automatically calculated based on the selected items. The starting address of the system area is specified by the PLC side (such as D00200), and each project is assigned an address according to a fixed offset.

3.3.3 Global Window Setup

GP can display both a global window (applicable to all screens) and two local windows simultaneously. You can set whether to use global windows, window registration numbers, and addressing methods for location (direct/indirect).

3.3.4 CHARACTER STRING DATA SETUP

The byte order of storage strings varies among different PLCs. Set according to PLC model:

Storage order of data devices (starting data storage/ending data storage)

Byte order within words (LH/HL)

Double character order (LH/HL)

For example, Omron PLCs typically choose mode 4 or 5, while Mitsubishi PLCs choose mode 1 or 2. Setting errors can result in garbled characters being displayed.

3.4 Communication parameter settings (SET UP I/O)

3.4.1 SIO Settings

Communication speed: 2400-38400 bps, must be consistent with PLC.

Data length/stop bit: 7 or 8 bits of data, 1 or 2 bits of stop bit.

Parity check: none, odd, even.

Flow control: X-CNTRL or ER-CNTRL.

Communication format: RS-232C, RS-422 4-wire, RS-422 2-wire. When using Memory Link, choose 4 wires.

3.4.2 I/O Settings

Touch operation mode: single point or two-point input.

Force reset: enable/disable. After activation, you can enter the forced reset screen by touching three points simultaneously.

Contrast adjustment: When enabled, the adjustment mode (monochrome model) can be entered through the touch screen's top right and top left corners. Color models have no contrast adjustment.

Brightness adjustment: When enabled, the adjustment mode can be entered through the bottom right and bottom left corners (color models only).

LCD Reverse (LG monochrome only): Set NORMAL or REVERSE to reverse black and white display.

3.4.3 Communication timeout and retry

Receive timeout (1-255 seconds): The maximum time GP waits for PLC response. Default 10 seconds. If it exceeds 30 seconds and the PC transmits the screen, an error may occur.

Retry count (0~255): The number of times GP resends data in case of communication error, default is 2 times.

3.5 PLC SETUP

3.5.1 1:1 Connection

Starting device/address in the system area: such as D00200.

Unit number: Consistent with PLC settings.

System area read size: Used for reading trend charts and other blocks, set to 0 if not in use to speed up communication.

3.5.2 n: 1 Multi link Connection

The starting address of the system area is set to 1:1.

Station number setting: Each GP must be assigned a unique station number (0-15).

Network information address: Assign 2 words to the connection and verification sections. The connection section records which station numbers' GPs have been registered; Verify the GP in actual communication. If both are consistent, communication is normal.

Custom settings: Communication priority can be selected - display priority (fast screen refresh, slightly slower touch response) or operation priority (fast touch response, slightly slower screen refresh). You can also set the touch exclusive function and exclusive time (0-2550 seconds).

3.6 Initialization Memory

This operation erases all screen data (but does not erase system settings, SIO protocol, and clock). Before execution, a password must be entered (either the universal password 1101 or the user's own password). Cannot be cancelled midway.

3.7 Time Setting (SET UP TIME)

Set the date and time of the internal clock. Note: The displayed time is only accurate to minutes, and the clock accuracy is affected by temperature.

3.8 Screen Settings (SET UP SCREEN)

Initial screen number: The screen number displayed after power on.

Alarm message character size: Set the alarm display font.

Online error display: Whether to display error messages in running mode.

3.9 Font Setting

Choose the character set used for running mode: ASCII, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Japanese. If you choose Japanese, you can set the quality of Chinese characters to "high" (32 dots displayed when enlarged by 2 x 2) or "standard" (16 dots enlarged).

Chapter 4: Image Data Transmission - The Bridge from PC to GP

4.1 Hardware Connection

Use the download cable provided with the screen editing software (Dsub 25 pin male to PC serial port). Connect the cable to the tool connector on the back of the GP, and connect the other end to the RS-232C serial port of the PC (if the PC does not have a serial port, a USB to serial port adapter is required). Note: If using a serial mouse, please use a different serial port.

4.2 Transmission steps

Ensure that the GP is powered on (newly purchased GP must be powered on first).

Select 'TRANSFER SCREEN DATA' in GP offline mode.

Select "Send to GP" or "Receive from GP" in the PC software.

Starting transmission, the GP screen displays "Transferring, Please Wait".

After the transmission is completed, press the ESC key to return to the running mode.

If the initial screen number has been set during initialization, the screen will be displayed; Otherwise, return to the main menu.

Chapter 5: Operation Mode and Daily Operations

5.1 Enter operating mode

Automatic operation upon power on: After a delay in startup time, the initial screen is displayed and communication with the PLC begins.

Run from offline mode: Press "RUN" on the main menu.

5.2 Entering offline mode during operation

In operating mode, within 10 seconds, touch the top left corner of the screen (which can still be triggered if a switch is placed) to switch back to offline mode.

5.3 Forced Reset During Operation

At any time (including during operation), holding down the bottom right corner, top right corner, and bottom left corner at the same time can enter the forced reset screen, perform a reset, or switch to offline mode.

Chapter 6: Fault Diagnosis and Detailed Explanation of Error Codes

GP370 has a self diagnostic function (SELF-DIagnoSIS) that can detect display patterns, touch panels, memory checksums, frame buffers, tool connectors, and serial interfaces. The following are common running errors and solutions.

6.1 Error Message List and Handling

Solution to the meaning of error messages

SYSTEM ERROR (xx: xx) GP basic operation failure or damaged screen file records error codes, contact the dealer; If it automatically switches to offline mode during operation, it is necessary to perform memory initialization and retransmit image data.

ILLEGAL EXPRESS IN SCREEN DATA Address Overlap (such as system area and label address overlap) Check the address allocation in screen editing to ensure there is no overlap. For example, if the starting address of the system area is 100, and the starting address of a 32-bit tag is 99, it will occupy both 99 and 100, resulting in a conflict.

UNSUPPORTED TAG IN SCREEN DATA The current GP version does not support certain label modification screen editing, use the label types supported by GP.

PLC NOT CONNECTED (02: FF) communication with PLC interrupted for more than 60 seconds. Check if the PLC power is turned on; Are the communication parameters in GP initialization correct; Is the power on sequence PLC first and then GP; is the communication cable connected reliably.

PLC NOT Replying (02: FE) response timeout is the same as the above check, and ensure that the PLC side program responds normally.

Received data error (02: FD), which may be caused by noise or communication line plugging to eliminate noise sources; Restart communication; Check the wiring.

GP STATION NO. DUPLIcation (02: F9) n: In the 1:1 connection, duplicate station numbers are assigned to each GP with a unique station number (0~15).

Network Address Error (02: F8) n: 1 Check for inconsistent SIO address settings in all GP connections (usually RS-422 4-wire).

The PLC COM. ERROR tag address exceeds the range of the PLC device. After checking the error code, refer to the PLC manual. For example: FC (data format error), FB (address out of range), FA (address range error), 53 (too many labels), 51 (address does not exist). For the Allen Bradley PLC-5/SLC500, the error code displayed by GP needs to be subtracted by D0h before checking the manual.

Screen Memory Data IS CORDUPT Screen Data Checksum Mismatch Delete damaged screen files, remake or restore backups.

CLOCK SETUP ERROR: If the internal clock backup battery is depleted, please contact the dealer to replace the battery (users cannot replace it themselves as there is a risk of explosion). Battery life: below 40 ℃>10 years, 40-50 ℃>4.1 years, 50-60 ℃>1.5 years.

SCREEN TRANSFER ERROR Picture transmission error retransmission.

Reduce the number of tags if the number of SCREEN TAG LIMITED EXCEEDED tags exceeds 256; Invalid tags will be disabled starting from the end.

The PLC type set in OBJ.PLC HAS NOT BEEN SETUP software does not match the actual one. Select the correct PLC type based on the hexadecimal number following the error code (e.g. 0: OMRON SYSMAC C); 1: Mitsubishi MELSEC AnN; 2: Siemens S5, etc.

6.2 Troubleshooting process for non display faults

If there is no display on the screen or a black screen during operation after power on, troubleshoot in the following order:

Check if the power supply voltage is 24VDC and if the polarity is correct.

Check if the backlight is damaged (observe for weak images at a tilted angle). If the backlight is damaged, replace the lamp tube.

Enter offline mode to check contrast/brightness settings.

Run "PLAY PATTERN" and "FRAME BUFFER" in self diagnosis.

If the diagnosis shows abnormalities, it may require repair.

6.3 Communication fault troubleshooting process

Confirm that the communication parameters (baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity) between GP and PLC are completely consistent.

Confirm that the cable wiring is correct (see section 2.3 of the manual for pin definitions of RS-232C or RS-422).

Use the "SIO CHECK" in self diagnosis to test the serial hardware with a loopback cable.

Check if the system area address on the PLC side is valid and does not overlap with other programs.

For n: 1 connections, set the checkpoint number and network information address.

6.4 Touch screen does not respond or responds slowly

Check if the touch buzzer is enabled. If there is a beep sound, it indicates that the touch detection is normal.

Run the "TOUCH PANEL" self diagnosis, press each touch unit one by one, and confirm the highlighted display.

If there is no response in certain areas, it may be due to damage to the touch panel.

If the overall response is slow, check if the operation priority is set in initialization (if it is set to display priority, touch response will slow down).

Chapter 7: Maintenance and upkeep

7.1 Daily Cleaning

Dip a soft cloth in neutral detergent and wring it out before wiping the display screen and borders.

It is strictly prohibited to use diluents, organic solvents, or strong acid compounds.

Do not press the touch screen with hard or sharp objects (such as automatic pencils).

7.2 Rubber gasket replacement

After prolonged use, the sealing gasket may scratch, become dirty, or lose elasticity, resulting in a decrease in waterproof and oil resistant performance. Should be replaced regularly (GP370-WP00-MS). When replacing, it is necessary to reinstall GP and ensure that the sealing gasket is properly attached.

7.3 Backlight tube replacement (important safety operation)

The lifespan of the backlight tube is about 20000 hours, and the brightness decreases by half. Replacement steps:

Power off: Turn off the GP power and unplug the power cord.

Disassembly: Use a screwdriver to unscrew the top two screws, hold down the front of the GP with one hand, and press the top center unlock buckle with the thumb of the other hand to open the chassis shaft.

Disconnect the connector: Be careful not to remove the internal metal protective plate.

Remove the old lamp tube: Move the hook to the right and pull out the lamp tube.

Insert new lamp tube: The model must match (GP370-BL00-MS for LG and SC), and plug back the connector.

Close the lid: First insert the bottom buckle into the hole, close the back cover, and tighten the screws. Be careful not to clamp the connector cable between the front and rear covers.

Warning: When replacing the lamp tube, protective gloves must be worn to prevent cuts or burns. Do not replace the internal lithium battery by yourself (explosion hazard). If the battery runs out, please contact the dealer.

7.4 Regular Inspection Items

Is the environmental temperature (0-50 ℃) and humidity (20-85% RH) compliant.

Is there any corrosive gas present.

Is the input voltage between 20.4 and 27.6V.

Is the cable connection loose.

Is the installation bracket secure.

Is there any obvious damage to the sealing gasket.

Chapter 8: Advanced Techniques and Precautions

8.1 System version differences

System versions 1.20 and above do not support Memory Loader and uploading screen data from GP.

The Device Monitor function is only available for GP-PRO/PBIII for Windows 95.

8.2 Screen Data Backup

Due to unforeseeable circumstances such as power fluctuations and static interference, it is recommended to regularly backup the image files through PC software, which may cause damage to the image data.

8.3 LCD Screen Characteristics Notice

There are fine grid points on the surface of the LCD.

Long term display of the same static image may result in afterimages (burn-in). It is recommended to enable standby mode (screen saver) or switch screens periodically.

Color changes or shadows may occur at certain angles, which is a normal phenomenon of LCD and not a malfunction.

8.4 Special Environmental Requirements

Although the front panel protection level of GP370 is IP65f, additional protective measures are still required if it is exposed to oil mist or low viscosity cutting oil for a long time. Non specified oil products may cause deformation or corrosion of the front panel plastic.

When installed in explosion-proof areas (Class I, Division 2), relevant electrical regulations must be followed: the equipment must not be disconnected when live, and replacing components may damage the explosion-proof applicability.