Programmable Functions

Programmable functions are special automated processes that can be programmed in the Protege WX system. Generally these processes have a trigger - such as an output turning on - which causes the controller to activate the process.

These functions present an extensive variety of applications for control and automation. For example, you might use them to arm an area based on the state of an output, operate a complex series of devices each time a specific door is unlocked, or unlock the doors in the event of a fire alarm.

Type

  • Type: The type of programmable function determines what kind of operation it will perform. Each type of function has different programming and options available.

    • None: The function will perform no action.
    • Logic Control: Controls an output or output group based on the state of one or two triggering outputs. Several logical operations are available.
    • Area Control: Arms or disarms an area or area group based on the state of an output.
    • Ripple Output: Activates a series of outputs in a ripple pattern based on a single triggering output. This can be used to stage large current devices and multiple lighting circuits.
    • Door Control: Locks or unlocks a door or door group based on the state of an output. Can also be used to initiate emergency egress or door lockdown.
    • Virtual Door: Enables defined inputs and outputs to act as a door without programming a door record. Useful for doors that do not have readers and are not monitored by a reader expander but require some door processing.
    • Input Follows Output: Controls an input based on the state of an output. Can be used to activate alarms based on an output state.
    • Elevator Control: Locks or unlocks floors for an elevator car or elevator group based on the state of an output.

  • Mode: Determines how the system controller operates this function.

    • When this option is set to Normal the programmable function will run every time its triggering conditions are met.

      If the controller is restarted the function will start again.

    • When set to Run Once Only the programmable function will run once when its triggering conditions are met, then stop.

      It will not run again unless started by an operator.

  • State: This is a legacy option that has no effect.