Can you explain the different data formats that can be mapped and how to convert them to read in the proper format in the PLC?

This answer will apply to the HI 4000 and 3000 series units.  These are the only model instruments that currently use mapping.

In the HI 4000 and HI 3000 series units, the mapping formats are: Float (32 bit IEEE format); Int (32 bit integer [DINT]); Short Int (16 bit integer); and Boolean.  

NOTE:  The Hardy short INT is equal to a PLC's 16 bit Integer.   The Hardy INT is equal to the PLC's 32 bit DINT.
The mapping input and output tables in the units are 16 bit registers. 
So if Float or INT format are selected, they would use two word registers in the table.

When installed in the PLC, the user selects a Comm Format for the unit.  This selection will determine the type of registers that make up the input and output tables in the PLC for the unit.  All registers will be the same type.  The size they list for the tables will determine the number of registers being transferred.

Regardless of what mapping format is selected, the number of bits passed will be placed into the receiving location.  If the data format sent does not match the data type of the register, it may need to be "copied" to the proper type register to be readable.

Example 1:  Mapping is float format (32 bits): 
If Comm Format is:
1.  SINT; Value sent will be received into four registers (8 bits each).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the four SINT registers into a single REAL register.
2.  INT; Value sent will be received into two registers (16 bits each).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the two INT registers into a single REAL register.
3.  DINT;  Value sent will be received into one register (32 bits).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the DINT register into a single REAL register.
4.  REAL; Value sent will be received into one register (32 bits).  User would be able to read the value directly from this input register since this matched the format being transferred.

Example 2:  Mapping is INT format (32 bit integer or DINT):
If Comm Format is:
1.  SINT; Value sent will be received into four registers (8 bits each).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the four SINT registers into a single DINT register.
2.  INT; Value sent will be received into two registers (16 bits each).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the two INT registers into a single DINT register.
3.  DINT;  Value sent will be received into one register (32 bits).  User would be able to read the value directly from this input register since this matched the format being transferred.
4.  REAL; Value sent will be received into one register (32 bits).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the REAL register into a single DINT register.

Example 3:  Mapping is Short Int format (16 bit integer):
If Comm Format is:
1.  SINT; Value sent will be received into two registers (8 bits each).  User would need to do copy command* to transfer data from the two SINT registers into a single INT register.
2.