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Codesys-MCP/python_scripting/setup-in-codesys-ide.md

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Configure Python Scripting in CODESYS IDE

This guide helps you enable and validate Python scripting in the CODESYS Development System.

1) Prerequisites

  • CODESYS Development System installed
  • A local Python installation (recommended: 64-bit)
  • Permissions to install CODESYS packages/add-ons

Note: Python version compatibility can vary by CODESYS release. Check your CODESYS release notes if the scripting package requests a specific Python version.

2) Enable scripting support in CODESYS

  1. Start CODESYS IDE.
  2. Open the CODESYS package/add-on manager.
  3. Verify that scripting support is installed (usually shown as Scripting, Script Engine, or similar CODESYS scripting component).
  4. If missing, install the scripting package from CODESYS Store/Installer and restart CODESYS.

3) Verify Python environment in IDE

  1. Open the scripting window/console in CODESYS (menu name depends on version/profile).
  2. Confirm that the script console starts without errors.
  3. If CODESYS asks for a Python path/interpreter, set your local Python executable.
  4. Save settings and restart IDE once.

4) Run a first test script

Use this minimal script in the CODESYS script console/editor:

import sys
print("Python OK")
print(sys.version)

Expected result: no import/runtime errors and printed Python version output.

5) Connect script to an existing project

  1. Open your CODESYS project.
  2. From scripting console/editor, access the active project object (CODESYS scripting API).
  3. Start with read-only actions first:
    • list devices
    • list POUs
    • print project metadata
  4. Then move to controlled write actions (for example, auto-creating folders/objects).

6) Common setup issues

  • Scripting menu missing: scripting package not installed or wrong CODESYS profile.
  • Interpreter errors: incompatible Python version or wrong executable path.
  • Permission errors: run IDE with appropriate permissions for package/plugin install.
  • API object errors: script written for another CODESYS version/API revision.
  • Keep scripts in version control near your CODESYS project.
  • Start with non-destructive scripts (reporting/checks) before auto-edit scripts.
  • Add log output for every script action.
  • Test scripts on a copy of the project before applying to production projects.