PID loops and tuning   
11.6 Notes concerning PV out-of-range (result code 3) 
  S7-200 SMART 
590  System Manual, V2.3, 07/2017, A5E03822230-AF 
 
Notes concerning PV out-of-range (result code 3) 
The process variable is considered to be in-range by the auto-tuner if its value is greater 
than 0.0 and less than 1.0.  
If the PV is detected to be out-of-range during the auto-hysteresis sequence, then the tuning 
is immediately aborted with a process out-of-range error result. 
If the PV is detected to be out-of-range between the starting point of the tuning sequence 
and the fourth zero-crossing, then the output step value is cut in half and the tuning 
sequence is restarted from the beginning. If a second PV out-of-range event is detected after 
the first zero-crossing following the restart, then the tuning is aborted with a process out-of-
range error result. 
Any PV out-of-range event occurring after the fourth zero-crossing results in an immediate 
abort of the tuning and a generation of a process out-of-range error result. 
 
STEP 7-Micro/WIN SMART includes a PID Tune control panel that allows you to graphically 
monitor the behavior of your PID loops. In addition, the control panel allows you to initiate the 
auto-tune sequence, abort the sequence, and apply the suggested tuning values or your own 
tuning values.  
To use the control panel, you must be communicating with the CPU and a wizard-generated 
configuration for a PID loop must exist in the CPU. The CPU must be in RUN mode for the 
control panel to display the operation of a PID loop.  
To open the PID control panel, use one of the following methods: 
●  Click the "PID Control Panel" button from the Tools area of the Tools menu ribbon strip. 
 
●  Open the Tools folder in the project tree, select the "PID Tune Control Panel" node and 
press Enter; or double-click the "PID Tune Control Panel" node.