LINT
LINT means Long Integer — a 64-bit signed integer, range ±9.2 × 10¹⁸. Used for nanosecond timestamps and very large cumulative counters.
Key Takeaways
- LINT means Long Integer — a 64-bit signed integer, range ±9.2 × 10¹⁸. Used for nanosecond timestamps and very large cumu...
- Intermediate-level topic in Data Types & Variables
- Related to: DINT, ULINT, LWORD
Detailed Definition
**LINT (Long Integer) is a 64-bit signed integer** with values from −9,223,372,036,854,775,808 to +9,223,372,036,854,775,807 (±9.2 × 10¹⁸).
**Range:** ±9.2 × 10¹⁸.
**Memory:** exactly 8 bytes (64 bits).
**Common uses:** nanosecond-resolution timestamps, very large counters (production lifetime totals), file sizes >4 GB, blockchain-style cumulative hashes.
**Syntax across major IDEs:** - Siemens SCL: `bigCount : LINT := 0;` - Studio 5000: limited support — check firmware version (v32+) - CODESYS / TwinCAT: `bigCount : LINT := 0;`
**Common pitfalls:** scan-cycle math performance — 64-bit operations are slower than 32-bit on smaller PLCs; many older PLC firmware versions don't natively support LINT and will silently downcast.
**See also:** DINT (signed 32-bit), ULINT (unsigned 64-bit), LREAL (64-bit floating point).
Common Questions
What is LINT?
LINT means Long Integer — a 64-bit signed integer, range ±9.2 × 10¹⁸. Used for nanosecond timestamps and very large cumulative counters.
What are related concepts I should learn?
To fully understand LINT, you should also familiarize yourself with DINT, ULINT, and LWORD. These concepts work together in industrial automation systems.
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Quick Info
- Category
- Data Types & Variables
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
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- Advanced
About Data Types & Variables
Data structures, variable types, and memory organization