How to edit TIMESPAN and DATE variables in NA
Written by Arlo D'Cruz
Updated at December 17th, 2025
The TIMESPAN and DATE type variables are not compatible with the DataEdit object which means there is no easy way to let the user enter a new value for these data types.
Sysmac does have keyboards which allow you to enter TIMESPAN or DATE types. These keyboards can be called manually via script.
Example: Modifying a TIMESPAN via script
1. Define your TIME variable on the PLC
2. Define your TIMESPAN variable mapping on the HMI
3. Create a “DataDisplay” object linked to your TIMESPAN variable
4. Create an action which triggers when the user clicks the DataDisplay. The action will call a subroutine.
5. Add the following code to your subroutine (adjust the variable name as required)
Sub GetTIMEKeypad
EditVariable( "HMITimeSpan")
End SubYour DataDisplay should now automatically show a keypad when pressed that allows you to edit the TIMESPAN variable.
Example: Modifying a DATE via script
DATE keypads can be generated in much the same way as Timespan keypads.
1. Define your DATE_AND_TIME variable on the PLC
2. Define your DATE variable mapping on the HMI
3. Create a “DateTime” object linked to your DATE variable
4. Create an action which triggers when the user clicks the DataDisplay. The action will call a subroutine.
5. Add the following code to your subroutine (adjust the variable name as required)
Sub GetDATEKeypad
EditVariable("HMIDate")
End Sub
Your DateTime object should now automatically show a keypad when pressed that allows you to edit the DATE.
