Working with Projects

Working with Tags

Creating Process Pictures

Process Picture Dynamics

Setting up a Message System

Archiving Process Values

SIMATIC HMI
WinCC V7.0 SP1
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual

Print of the Online Help

11/2008

Documentation of
Configuration and Runtime
Data

Creating Page Layouts

Creating Line Layouts

Setting Up Multilingual
Projects

10

Structure of the User

Administration

11

Integration of WinCC in
SIMATIC Manager

12

Legal information
Warning notice system
This manual contains notices you have to observe in order to ensure your personal safety, as well as to prevent
damage to property. The notices referring to your personal safety are highlighted in the manual by a safety alert
symbol, notices referring only to property damage have no safety alert symbol. These notices shown below are
graded according to the degree of danger.
DANGER
indicates that death or severe personal injury will result if proper precautions are not taken.
WARNING
indicates that death or severe personal injury may result if proper precautions are not taken.
CAUTION
with a safety alert symbol, indicates that minor personal injury can result if proper precautions are not taken.
CAUTION
without a safety alert symbol, indicates that property damage can result if proper precautions are not taken.
NOTICE
indicates that an unintended result or situation can occur if the corresponding information is not taken into account.
If more than one degree of danger is present, the warning notice representing the highest degree of danger will be
used. A notice warning of injury to persons with a safety alert symbol may also include a warning relating to property
damage.

Qualified Personnel
The product/system described in this documentation may be operated only by personnel qualified for the specific
task in accordance with the relevant documentation for the specific task, in particular its warning notices and safety
instructions. Qualified personnel are those who, based on their training and experience, are capable of identifying
risks and avoiding potential hazards when working with these products/systems.

Proper use of Siemens products

Note the following:
WARNING
Siemens products may only be used for the applications described in the catalog and in the relevant technical
documentation. If products and components from other manufacturers are used, these must be recommended or
approved by Siemens. Proper transport, storage, installation, assembly, commissioning, operation and
maintenance are required to ensure that the products operate safely and without any problems. The permissible
ambient conditions must be adhered to. The information in the relevant documentation must be observed.

Trademarks
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may be trademarks whose use by third parties for their own purposes could violate the rights of the owner.

Disclaimer of Liability
We have reviewed the contents of this publication to ensure consistency with the hardware and software described.
Since variance cannot be precluded entirely, we cannot guarantee full consistency. However, the information in
this publication is reviewed regularly and any necessary corrections are included in subsequent editions.

Siemens AG
Industry Sector
Postfach 48 48
90026 NRNBERG
GERMANY

08/2009

Copyright Siemens AG 2008.

Technical data subject to change

Table of contents
1

Working with Projects.................................................................................................................................29

1

Resources...................................................................................................................................29

1.1

Working with Projects..................................................................................................................29

1.2

Opening WinCC Explorer............................................................................................................29

1.3

Closing WinCC Explorer..............................................................................................................32

1.4
1.4.1
1.4.2
1.4.3
1.4.4
1.4.5
1.4.6
1.4.7

The WinCC Explorer....................................................................................................................34

The WinCC Explorer....................................................................................................................34
Elements of the WinCC Explorer.................................................................................................35
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer................................................................................................36
Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer....................................................................................................39
Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer................................................................................40
Windows of the WinCC Explorer.................................................................................................41
Search Function..........................................................................................................................44

1.5
1.5.1
1.5.2
1.5.3
1.5.4
1.5.5
1.5.5.1
1.5.5.2
1.5.5.3

Project Types...............................................................................................................................46
Project Types...............................................................................................................................46
Single-User Project......................................................................................................................46
Multi-User Project........................................................................................................................47
Client Project...............................................................................................................................48
Changing Project Type................................................................................................................49
Changing Project Type................................................................................................................49
How to Change a Single-User Project into a Multi-User Project.................................................50
How to Change a Multi-User Project to a Single-User Project....................................................50

1.6
1.6.1
1.6.2
1.6.3
1.6.4
1.6.5
1.6.6
1.6.6.1
1.6.6.2
1.6.6.3
1.6.6.4
1.6.6.5
1.6.7
1.6.8
1.6.8.1
1.6.8.2
1.6.8.3
1.6.8.4
1.6.8.5
1.6.8.6
1.6.8.7

Creating and Editing Projects......................................................................................................51

Preparation to Create a Project...................................................................................................51
WinCC Project with Basic Process Control.................................................................................54
How to Create a Project..............................................................................................................55
How to Specify the Computer Properties....................................................................................59
How to support multiple picture windows....................................................................................61
Setting Time in WinCC................................................................................................................64
Setting Time in WinCC................................................................................................................64
How to Set the Time Base in the Project.....................................................................................66
How to Set the Time Base for Controls.......................................................................................67
How to Set the Time Base for Runtime Documentation..............................................................69
How to Set the Time Base for Communication............................................................................71
Online Configuration....................................................................................................................72
Loading Online Changes.............................................................................................................76
Loading Online Changes.............................................................................................................76
Requirements for Loading Online Changes................................................................................78
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes.............................................................................80
Run Diagnosis of Online Change Loading..................................................................................83
How to Activate Load Online Changes........................................................................................85
How to Download Load Online Changes.....................................................................................87
How to Reset Load Online Changes...........................................................................................91

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Table of contents

1.7
1.7.1
1.7.2
1.7.3
1.7.4
1.7.5

Determining the Global Design....................................................................................................92

Global Design of the Objects.......................................................................................................92
The Elements of the Global Design.............................................................................................94
How to work with global object designs.......................................................................................95
How to edit your own global design.............................................................................................99
How to determine the global design of the objects....................................................................104

1.8
1.8.1
1.8.2
1.8.3
1.8.4
1.8.5
1.8.5.1
1.8.5.2
1.8.5.3
1.8.5.4
1.8.5.5
1.8.5.6
1.8.5.7
1.8.5.8
1.8.5.9
1.8.5.10

Making Settings for Runtime.....................................................................................................105

Settings for Runtime..................................................................................................................105
How to Set Up a Startup List.....................................................................................................107
How to Assign Hotkeys in the Project........................................................................................110
Effect of External Applications at Runtime................................................................................111
Setting up Runtime....................................................................................................................112
How to set up Runtime..............................................................................................................112
How to change the computer name...........................................................................................114
How to configure the applications available in Runtime............................................................116
How to Change the default settings for Language, Time and Key Combinations.....................117
How to define hotkeys for operation and screen navigation......................................................119
How to define a picture as the start picture in Runtime.............................................................122
How to configure the cursor control in Runtime.........................................................................124
How to Activate Zoom Functions in Runtime.............................................................................126
How to make computer-specific settings for runtime.................................................................128
How to switch off the optimized drawing...................................................................................130

1.9
1.9.1
1.9.2
1.9.3
1.9.4

Activating Project.......................................................................................................................132
Activating Project.......................................................................................................................132
How to Start Runtime................................................................................................................132
How to Set Up Autostart............................................................................................................135
How to Exit Runtime..................................................................................................................137

1.10
1.10.1
1.10.2
1.10.3
1.10.4

Copying and Duplicating Projects..............................................................................................138

Copying and Duplicating Projects..............................................................................................138
How to Copy a Project...............................................................................................................139
How to Duplicate a Project for Redundant Servers...................................................................142
How to duplicate a redundant project at runtime.......................................................................145

1.11
1.11.1
1.11.2
1.11.3
1.11.4
1.11.5

Appendix....................................................................................................................................146
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer.................................................................................146
WinCC status and control in the system tray.............................................................................149
WinCC diagnostics window and license information.................................................................151
Illegal Characters.......................................................................................................................152
File Structure of a Project..........................................................................................................155

Working with Tags....................................................................................................................................159

2

Resources.................................................................................................................................159

2.1

Working with Tags.....................................................................................................................159

2.2

Tag management......................................................................................................................159

2.3
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.2.1
2.3.2.2

Tag Management and Tags......................................................................................................162

Tag Management and Tags......................................................................................................162
Tags...........................................................................................................................................163
Tags...........................................................................................................................................163
Process Tags.............................................................................................................................164

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Table of contents

2.3.2.3
2.3.2.4
2.3.2.5
2.3.3
2.3.4

Internal Tags..............................................................................................................................166
Structure Types and Structure Tags..........................................................................................167
Tag Groups................................................................................................................................170
Tag Selection Dialog.................................................................................................................171
Communication Driver...............................................................................................................174

2.4
2.4.1
2.4.2
2.4.3
2.4.4
2.4.5
2.4.6
2.4.7
2.4.8
2.4.9
2.4.10
2.4.11
2.4.12
2.4.13

Tag Types..................................................................................................................................174
Tag Types..................................................................................................................................174
Text Reference..........................................................................................................................176
Binary Tags...............................................................................................................................176
Signed 8-bit value......................................................................................................................177
Unsigned 8-bit value..................................................................................................................178
Signed 16-bit value....................................................................................................................179
Unsigned 16-bit value................................................................................................................180
Signed 32-bit value....................................................................................................................181
Unsigned 32-bit value................................................................................................................183
Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754.....................................................................................184
Floating-Point Number 64-Bit IEEE 754....................................................................................185
Text Tag 8-Bit Character Set and Text Tag 16-Bit Character Set.............................................187
Raw Data Tag............................................................................................................................187

2.5
2.5.1
2.5.2
2.5.3
2.5.4
2.5.4.1
2.5.4.2
2.5.4.3
2.5.5
2.5.6
2.5.7
2.5.8

Creating Tags............................................................................................................................188
Creating Tags............................................................................................................................188
How to Create a Process Tag...................................................................................................189
Creating Internal Tags...............................................................................................................190
Creating Structure Types...........................................................................................................192
Creating Structure Types...........................................................................................................192
How to Create a Structure Tag..................................................................................................192
How to Use Structure Types......................................................................................................195
How to Create a Tag Group......................................................................................................197
How to Set Limit Values............................................................................................................198
How to Define a Substitute Value..............................................................................................199
How to Define Linear Scaling....................................................................................................200

2.6
2.6.1
2.6.2
2.6.3
2.6.4
2.6.5

Editing Tags...............................................................................................................................202
Editing Tags...............................................................................................................................202
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags..........................................................................................202
How to Rename Tags................................................................................................................204
Editing Tags in Runtime............................................................................................................206
Status Information of Tags in Runtime......................................................................................207

Creating Process Pictures........................................................................................................................209

3

Resources.................................................................................................................................209

3.1

Creating Process Pictures.........................................................................................................209

3.2

How to start the Graphics Designer...........................................................................................209

3.3
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4
3.3.5
3.3.6

The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer.........................................................................210

The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer.........................................................................210
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window............................................................................212
This is how to configure the object selection.............................................................................216
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette......................................218
The pop-up menu in the Data Window......................................................................................221
Displaying the properties of a picture file...................................................................................224

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Table of contents

3.3.7

Displaying the configured dynamics of a process picture..........................................................226

3.4
3.4.1
3.4.2
3.4.3
3.4.4
3.4.5
3.4.5.1
3.4.5.2
3.4.5.3
3.4.5.4
3.4.5.5
3.4.5.6
3.4.5.7
3.4.5.8
3.4.5.9
3.4.5.10
3.4.5.11
3.4.5.12
3.4.6
3.4.6.1
3.4.6.2
3.4.6.3
3.4.7
3.4.7.1
3.4.7.2
3.4.7.3
3.4.7.4
3.4.7.5
3.4.7.6
3.4.7.7
3.4.7.8
3.4.8
3.4.8.1
3.4.8.2
3.4.8.3
3.4.8.4
3.4.8.5

Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer............................................................228

Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer............................................................228
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture............................................................................228
The Coordinate System of an Object........................................................................................230
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object.....................................................................................232
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer...............................................................................234
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer...............................................................................234
The Standard Toolbar................................................................................................................236
The Object Palette.....................................................................................................................238
The Style Palette.......................................................................................................................239
The Dynamic Wizard.................................................................................................................240
The Alignment Palette...............................................................................................................241
The Layer Palette......................................................................................................................242
The Zoom Palette......................................................................................................................243
The Color Palette.......................................................................................................................244
The Font Palette........................................................................................................................245
The Tag Palette.........................................................................................................................246
The Status Bar...........................................................................................................................247
The Central Color Palette..........................................................................................................248
The central color palette............................................................................................................248
How to define the central color palette......................................................................................249
How to export and import color palettes....................................................................................251
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer............................................................................254
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer............................................................................254
How to Set the Grid...................................................................................................................254
This is how you set the options.................................................................................................256
Making layers invisible...............................................................................................................260
Customizing Menu and Toolbars...............................................................................................262
Showing and hiding layers and objects.....................................................................................264
Managing the default settings of objects...................................................................................267
Changing the default trigger......................................................................................................269
Customizing the Working Environment.....................................................................................271
Customizing the Working Environment.....................................................................................271
How to work with user-defined colors........................................................................................272
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes......................................................................275
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes.................................................................................276
How to Change the Standard Toolbar.......................................................................................277

3.5
3.5.1
3.5.2
3.5.3
3.5.4
3.5.5
3.5.6
3.5.7
3.5.8
3.5.9
3.5.10
3.5.11
3.5.12

Working with Pictures................................................................................................................278

Working with Pictures................................................................................................................278
How to create a new picture......................................................................................................280
How to save the pictures...........................................................................................................281
How to open a picture................................................................................................................281
How to Copy the Picture............................................................................................................282
How to Rename a Picture..........................................................................................................282
How to Delete a Picture.............................................................................................................284
How to convert pictures.............................................................................................................286
How to export graphics..............................................................................................................287
How to set the picture properties...............................................................................................288
How to configure a picture background.....................................................................................289
Working with Layers..................................................................................................................290

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Table of contents

3.5.12.1
3.5.12.2
3.5.12.3
3.5.13
3.5.13.1
3.5.13.2
3.5.13.3
3.5.13.4

Working with Layers..................................................................................................................290

How to assign a layer................................................................................................................293
How to use the layers palette....................................................................................................294
Working with Multiple Pictures...................................................................................................295
Working with Multiple Pictures...................................................................................................295
How to transfer picture properties to another picture................................................................295
How to transfer objects to another picture.................................................................................296
How to copy objects to another picture.....................................................................................298

3.6
3.6.1
3.6.2
3.6.3
3.6.4
3.6.5
3.6.6
3.6.7
3.6.8
3.6.9
3.6.10
3.6.11
3.6.12
3.6.13
3.6.14

Working with Faceplate Types..................................................................................................299

Working with Faceplate types....................................................................................................299
How to create a Faceplate type.................................................................................................301
How to create a Faceplate type.................................................................................................302
How to insert the individual objects of the Faceplate type.........................................................302
Configuration of a Faceplate type..............................................................................................303
Properties of a Faceplate type...................................................................................................304
How to configure the properties of a Faceplate type.................................................................306
Event of a Faceplate type..........................................................................................................309
How to configure the events of a Faceplate type......................................................................310
Definition of the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type.................................................................312
How to edit the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type..................................................................313
Making a Faceplate type dynamic.............................................................................................314
How to use a Faceplate instance..............................................................................................315
How to update a Faceplate instance.........................................................................................318

3.7
3.7
3.7.1
3.7.2
3.7.3
3.7.4
3.7.5
3.7.6
3.7.7
3.7.8
3.7.9
3.7.10
3.7.11
3.7.11.1
3.7.11.2
3.7.11.3
3.7.11.4
3.7.11.5
3.7.11.6
3.7.12
3.7.13

Working with Controls................................................................................................................319

Resources.................................................................................................................................319
Working with Controls................................................................................................................319
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls............................................320
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object:.....................................................322
This is how you insert a .NET or WPF control as a smart object..............................................324
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab.......................................................................325
How to Resize a Control............................................................................................................326
How to Position a Control..........................................................................................................328
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette......................................329
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control..................................................332
How to Change the Properties of a Control...............................................................................334
ActiveX controls.........................................................................................................................335
IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace Control...............................................................................................335
Siemens HMI Symbol Library....................................................................................................340
WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control.........................................................................................349
WinCC Gauge Control...............................................................................................................355
WinCC Media Control................................................................................................................364
WinCC Slider Control................................................................................................................368
.NET controls.............................................................................................................................376
WPF controls.............................................................................................................................377

3.8
3.8.1
3.8.2
3.8.3
3.8.3.1
3.8.3.2
3.8.3.3

Working with Objects.................................................................................................................378

Working with Objects.................................................................................................................378
How to change the default setting of object types.....................................................................379
Basic Static Operations.............................................................................................................380
Basic Static Operations.............................................................................................................380
How to insert an object into a picture........................................................................................382
How to Rename Objects............................................................................................................383

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Table of contents

3.8.3.4
3.8.3.5
3.8.3.6
3.8.3.7
3.8.3.8
3.8.3.9
3.8.3.10
3.8.3.11
3.8.3.12
3.8.3.13
3.8.3.14
3.8.3.15
3.8.3.16
3.8.3.17
3.8.3.18
3.8.4
3.8.4.1
3.8.4.2
3.8.4.3
3.8.4.4
3.8.4.5
3.8.4.6
3.8.4.7
3.8.4.8
3.8.4.9
3.8.5
3.8.5.1
3.8.5.2
3.8.5.3
3.8.5.4
3.8.6
3.8.6.1
3.8.6.2
3.8.6.3
3.8.6.4
3.8.6.5
3.8.6.6
3.8.7
3.8.7.1
3.8.7.2
3.8.7.3
3.8.7.4

How to select an object.............................................................................................................385

Multiple Selection of Objects.....................................................................................................386
How to Select Multiple Objects..................................................................................................388
How to position objects..............................................................................................................390
How to Align Multiple Objects....................................................................................................392
How to scale an object..............................................................................................................393
How to mirror the objects...........................................................................................................395
How to rotate the objects...........................................................................................................396
How to delete objects................................................................................................................398
How to cut objects.....................................................................................................................399
How to copy objects..................................................................................................................400
How to insert the contents of the clipboard...............................................................................401
How to duplicate objects............................................................................................................402
How to change the position of an object....................................................................................403
You can change the text contents of objects.............................................................................405
Basic Dynamic Operations........................................................................................................407
Basic Dynamic Operations........................................................................................................407
How to make attributes dynamic...............................................................................................408
How to configure events............................................................................................................410
How to configure a dynamic dialog............................................................................................411
How to configure a C action......................................................................................................412
How to configure a VBS action..................................................................................................414
How to Configure a Tag Connection.........................................................................................416
You can link the tag connection of objects................................................................................418
How to Configure a Direct Connection......................................................................................421
The Properties of an Object.......................................................................................................423
The Properties of an Object.......................................................................................................423
The "Object Properties" Window...............................................................................................424
Property Groups and Attributes.................................................................................................437
Special Runtime Settings..........................................................................................................466
Working with Objects in the Object Palette...............................................................................473
Working with Objects in the Object Palette...............................................................................473
Working with Standard Objects.................................................................................................475
Working with Smart Objects......................................................................................................509
Working with Windows Objects.................................................................................................583
Working with Tube Objects........................................................................................................601
Quick Object Configuration........................................................................................................606
Working with Combined Objects...............................................................................................613
Working with Combined Objects...............................................................................................613
Working with Groups.................................................................................................................614
Working with Customized Objects.............................................................................................618
Working with the library.............................................................................................................646

3.9
3.9.1
3.9.2
3.9.3
3.9.4
3.9.4.1
3.9.4.2
3.9.4.3
3.9.4.4
3.9.4.5

Process Pictures in Runtime.....................................................................................................656

Testing Process Pictures in Runtime.........................................................................................656
How to activate / deactivate Runtime........................................................................................657
How to test the active picture in Runtime..................................................................................658
Menus and Toolbars..................................................................................................................659
User-defined menus and toolbars.............................................................................................659
How to Create a Menu...............................................................................................................661
How to Create a Toolbar...........................................................................................................664
How to configure menus and toolbars in a picture....................................................................667
How to configure menus and toolbars in a picture window.......................................................667
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Table of contents

3.9.4.6
3.9.4.7
3.9.5
3.9.5.1
3.9.5.2
3.9.5.3
3.9.6
3.9.6.1
3.9.6.2
3.9.6.3
3.9.6.4
3.9.6.5
3.9.6.6

Control elements of the "Menus and Toolbars" editor...............................................................668

How to define the font for the various languages......................................................................670
Virtual keyboard.........................................................................................................................673
Virtual keyboard - General Information......................................................................................673
How to configure the activation of the virtual keyboard.............................................................674
How to operate the virtual keyboard..........................................................................................675
Setting up Mouseless Operation of a Picture............................................................................677
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation......................................................................677
Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence.................................................................................678
Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence..............................................................................679
Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence........................................................................................681
Removing Objects from the Tab Sequence...............................................................................682
Putting Objects Back into the Tab Sequence............................................................................683

3.10
Object properties.......................................................................................................................684
3.10
Resources.................................................................................................................................684
3.10.1 "Axis" Property Group................................................................................................................684
3.10.1.1 Axis Section (AxisSection).........................................................................................................684
3.10.1.2 Alignment...................................................................................................................................684
3.10.1.3 Bar Scaling (ScalingType)........................................................................................................685
3.10.1.4 Label Each (Long StrokesText Each)........................................................................................685
3.10.1.5 Exponent Display (Exponent)....................................................................................................686
3.10.1.6 Large Tick Marks (LongStrokesBold)........................................................................................686
3.10.1.7 Large Tick Marks Length (LongStrokesSize)............................................................................686
3.10.1.8 Decimal Places (RightComma).................................................................................................686
3.10.1.9 Zero Point (ZeroPoint)...............................................................................................................686
3.10.1.10Only Large Tick Marks (LongStrokesOnly)................................................................................687
3.10.1.11Scale (Scaling)..........................................................................................................................687
3.10.1.12Scale Marks (ScaleTicks)..........................................................................................................687
3.10.1.13Digits to the Left of the Decimal Point (LeftComma).................................................................687
3.10.2 "Output / Input" Property Group.................................................................................................688
3.10.2.1 Number of Visible Lines (NumberLines)....................................................................................688
3.10.2.2 Output Format (OutputFormat)..................................................................................................688
3.10.2.3 Output Value (OutputValue)......................................................................................................688
3.10.2.4 Bit Number (BitNumber)............................................................................................................688
3.10.2.5 Data Format (DataFormat)........................................................................................................689
3.10.2.6 Input value.................................................................................................................................689
3.10.2.7 Field Type (BoxType)................................................................................................................689
3.10.2.8 List Type (ListType)...................................................................................................................689
3.10.2.9 Clear on Invalid Input (ClearOnError)........................................................................................690
3.10.2.10Clear on New Input (ClearOnNew)............................................................................................690
3.10.2.11Selected Boxes (Process).........................................................................................................690
3.10.2.12Selected Box (Process).............................................................................................................690
3.10.2.13Apply on Exit (AssumeOnExit)..................................................................................................690
3.10.2.14Apply on Complete Input (AssumeOnFull)................................................................................691
3.10.2.15Hidden Input (HiddenInput).......................................................................................................691
3.10.2.16Assignments (Assignments)......................................................................................................691
3.10.3 "Picture" Property Group...........................................................................................................692
3.10.3.1 Picture (PictureName)...............................................................................................................692
3.10.3.2 Picture Referenced (PicReferenced).........................................................................................692
3.10.3.3 Picture Transparent Color (PicTransColor)...............................................................................692
3.10.3.4 Picture Transparent Color On (PicUseTransColor)...................................................................693
3.10.4 "Pictures" Property Group.........................................................................................................693
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3.10.4.1 Picture Off Referenced (PicUpReferenced)..............................................................................693

3.10.4.2 Picture Off Transparent Color (PicUpTransparent)...................................................................693
3.10.4.3 Picture Off Transparent Color On (PicUpUseTransColor).........................................................693
3.10.4.4 Picture Deact. Referenced (PicDeactReferenced)....................................................................694
3.10.4.5 Picture Deact. Transparent Color (PicDeactTransparent).........................................................694
3.10.4.6 Picture Deact. Transparent Color On (PicDeactUseTransColor)..............................................694
3.10.4.7 Picture On Referenced (PicDownReferenced)..........................................................................694
3.10.4.8 Picture On Transparent Color (PicDownTransparent)...............................................................695
3.10.4.9 Picture On Transparent Color On (PicDownUseTransColor)....................................................695
3.10.4.10Picture Status Off (PictureUp)...................................................................................................695
3.10.4.11Picture Status Deactivated (PictureDeactivated).......................................................................695
3.10.4.12Picture Status On (PictureDown)...............................................................................................696
3.10.4.13Picture Alignment......................................................................................................................696
3.10.5 "Flashing" Property Group.........................................................................................................696
3.10.5.1 Flashing (EnableFlashing).........................................................................................................696
3.10.5.2 Flashing Background Active (FlashBackColor).........................................................................696
3.10.5.3 Flashing Line Active (FlashBorderColor)...................................................................................697
3.10.5.4 Flashing Border Active (FlashBorderColor)...............................................................................697
3.10.5.5 Flashing Text Active (FlashForeColor)......................................................................................697
3.10.5.6 Flash Frequency (FlashRate)....................................................................................................698
3.10.5.7 Background Flash Frequency (FlashRateBackColor)...............................................................698
3.10.5.8 Line Flash Frequency (FlashRateBorderColor).........................................................................698
3.10.5.9 Border Flash Frequency (FlashRateBorderColor).....................................................................699
3.10.5.10Text Flash Frequency (FlashRateForeColor)............................................................................699
3.10.5.11Flashing Background Color Off (BackFlashColorOff)................................................................699
3.10.5.12Flashing Background Color On (BackFlashColorOn)................................................................700
3.10.5.13Flashing Line Color Off (BorderFlashColorOff).........................................................................700
3.10.5.14Flashing Line Color On (BorderFlashColorOn).........................................................................700
3.10.5.15Flashing Border Color Off (BorderFlashColorOff).....................................................................700
3.10.5.16Flashing Border Color On (BorderFlashColorOn).....................................................................701
3.10.5.17Flashing Text Color Off (ForeFlashColorOff).............................................................................701
3.10.5.18Flashing Text Color On (ForeFlashColorOn).............................................................................701
3.10.6 The "Display" property group.....................................................................................................702
3.10.6.1 Display Options (DisplayOptions)..............................................................................................702
3.10.6.2 Global Shadow..........................................................................................................................702
3.10.6.3 Global Color Scheme ...............................................................................................................702
3.10.6.4 Object Transparency.................................................................................................................702
3.10.6.5 [V6.2] Windows Style.................................................................................................................703
3.10.6.6 WinCC style...............................................................................................................................703
3.10.7 "Colors" Property Group............................................................................................................703
3.10.7.1 Colors - 3D to H.........................................................................................................................703
3.10.7.2 Colors - I to R............................................................................................................................707
3.10.7.3 Colors - S to Z...........................................................................................................................709
3.10.8 "Filling" Property Group.............................................................................................................711
3.10.8.1 Dynamic Filling (Filling).............................................................................................................711
3.10.8.2 Fill Level (FillingIndex)...............................................................................................................711
3.10.9 "Geometry" Property Group.......................................................................................................712
3.10.9.1 Geometry - A to B......................................................................................................................712
3.10.9.2 Geometry - C to Z......................................................................................................................718
3.10.10 "Limits" Property Group.............................................................................................................725
3.10.10.1Limits - A....................................................................................................................................725
3.10.10.2Limits - Bar color........................................................................................................................730

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3.10.10.3Limits - Bar fill color...................................................................................................................738

3.10.10.4Limits - Bar fill style....................................................................................................................740
3.10.10.5Limits - C to T............................................................................................................................742
3.10.10.6Limits - U to Z............................................................................................................................749
3.10.11 The "Background picture" property group.................................................................................762
3.10.11.1BackPictureName......................................................................................................................762
3.10.11.2Show as (Back Picture Alignment)............................................................................................762
3.10.12 "Message Types" Property Group.............................................................................................762
3.10.12.1Display Text (MCText)...............................................................................................................762
3.10.12.2Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing (GNQBackFlash).....................................763
3.10.12.3Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing (MCGUBackFlash)...................................763
3.10.12.4Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off (GNQBackColorOff)................................763
3.10.12.5Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off (MCGUBackColorOff).............................763
3.10.12.6Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On (GNQBackColorOn)................................763
3.10.12.7Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On (MCGUBackColorOn).............................764
3.10.12.8Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing (GNQTextFlash)...................................................764
3.10.12.9Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing (MCGUTextFlash)................................................764
3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off (GNQTextColorOff).............................................764
0
3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off (MCGUTextColorOff)..........................................765
1
3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On (GNQTextColorOn).............................................765
2
3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On (MCGUTextColorOn)..........................................765
3
3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Flashing (CBackFlash).........................................................................765
4
3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Flashing (MCKOBackFlash).................................................................766
5
3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color Off (CBackColorOff)....................................................................766
6
3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color Off (MCKOBackColorOff)............................................................766
7
3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color On (CBackColorOn)....................................................................766
8
3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color On (MCKOBackColorOn)............................................................766
9
3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Flashing (CTextFlash)......................................................................................767
0
3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Flashing (MCKOTextFlash)..............................................................................767
1
3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color Off (CTextColorOff).................................................................................767
2
3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color Off (MCKOTextColorOff).........................................................................767
3
3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color On (CTextColorOn).................................................................................767
4
3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color On (MCKOTextColorOn).........................................................................768
5
3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing (CQBackFlash)..............................................768
6

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3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing (MCKQBackFlash).........................................768

7
3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off (CQBackColorOff).........................................768
8
3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off (MCKQBackColorOff)...................................769
9
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On (CQBackColorOn).........................................769
0
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On (MCKQBackColorOn)...................................769
1
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing (CQTextFlash)...........................................................769
2
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing (MCKQTextFlash)......................................................770
3
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off (CQTextColorOff)......................................................770
4
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off (MCKQTextColorOff)................................................770
5
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On (CQTextColorOn)......................................................770
6
3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On (MCKQTextColorOn)................................................770
7
3.10.12.3 Message Type (MessageClass)................................................................................................771
8
3.10.13 The "Object" Property Group.....................................................................................................771
3.10.13.1Layer (Layer).............................................................................................................................771
3.10.13.2Faceplate Type FPT..................................................................................................................771
3.10.13.3Window Contents (Application).................................................................................................772
3.10.13.4Object Name (ObjectName)......................................................................................................772
3.10.13.5Template (Template).................................................................................................................772
3.10.14 "Font" Property Group...............................................................................................................773
3.10.14.1Bold (FontBold)..........................................................................................................................773
3.10.14.2Format (Format)........................................................................................................................773
3.10.14.3Index (Index)..............................................................................................................................774
3.10.14.4Italic (FontItalic).........................................................................................................................774
3.10.14.5Text Orientation (Orientation)....................................................................................................774
3.10.14.6Text (Text).................................................................................................................................774
3.10.14.7Underline (FontUnderline).........................................................................................................775
3.10.14.8X alignment (AlignmentLeft)......................................................................................................775
3.10.14.9Y alignment (AlignmentTop)......................................................................................................775
3.10.14.1 Font (FontName).......................................................................................................................775
0
3.10.14.1 Font Size (FontSize)..................................................................................................................776
1
3.10.15 "Miscellaneous" Property Group................................................................................................776
3.10.15.1Others - A to B..........................................................................................................................776
3.10.15.2Others - C to O.........................................................................................................................780
3.10.15.3Others - P to S..........................................................................................................................785
3.10.15.4Others - T to Z...........................................................................................................................791
3.10.16 "Lock" Property Group...............................................................................................................795
3.10.16.1Lock Display (LockStatus).........................................................................................................795
3.10.16.2Lock Display Text (LockText)....................................................................................................795

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3.10.16.3Lock Background Color (LockBackColor)..................................................................................795

3.10.16.4Lock Text Color (LockTextColor)...............................................................................................795
3.10.17 "Styles" Property Group.............................................................................................................796
3.10.17.13D Border Width (BackBorderWidth).........................................................................................796
3.10.17.2Bar Pattern (FillStyle2)..............................................................................................................796
3.10.17.3Border Weight (BackBorderWidth)............................................................................................796
3.10.17.4Display as DropDownList..........................................................................................................796
3.10.17.5Latch Down (Toggle).................................................................................................................796
3.10.17.6Box Alignment (BoxAlignment)..................................................................................................797
3.10.17.7Fill Pattern (FillStyle).................................................................................................................797
3.10.17.8Fill Pattern (FillStyle).................................................................................................................797
3.10.17.9Pressed (Pressed).....................................................................................................................797
3.10.17.1 Background (Background).........................................................................................................798
0
3.10.17.1 Light Effect (LightEffect)............................................................................................................798
1
3.10.17.1 Line Style (BorderStyle).............................................................................................................798
2
3.10.17.1 Line End Style (BorderEndStyle)...............................................................................................799
3
3.10.17.1 Line Weight (BorderWidth)........................................................................................................799
4
3.10.17.1 Line connection type (LineJoinStyle).........................................................................................800
5
3.10.17.1 Pattern alignment (Fill Style Alignment)....................................................................................800
6
3.10.17.1 Draw Border Inside (DrawInsideFrame)....................................................................................800
7
3.10.17.1 Border Style (BorderStyle).........................................................................................................800
8
3.10.17.1 Border Width (BorderWidth)......................................................................................................801
9
3.10.17.2 Dividing Line Style (ItemBorderStyle)........................................................................................801
0
3.10.17.2 Dividing Line Weight (ItemBorderWidth) ..................................................................................801
1
3.10.17.2 Windows Style (WindowsStyle).................................................................................................802
2
3.10.18 "Connected Objects" Property Group........................................................................................802
3.10.18.1Index of the Connection Point of the First Object Connected
(TopConnectedConnectionPointIndex).....................................................................................802
3.10.18.2Index of the Connection Point of the Object Connected at the End
(BottomConnectedConnectionPointIndex)................................................................................802
3.10.18.3Object Name of the First Object Connected (TopConnectedObjectName)...............................802
3.10.18.4Object Name of the Object Connected at the End (BottomConnectedObjectName)................802
3.10.18.5Change Orientation (Orientation)..............................................................................................803
3.10.18.6Connection Type (ConnectorType)...........................................................................................803
3.10.19 "Assignment" Property Group....................................................................................................803
3.10.19.1Message Types for Button 1 (Button1Messagetype)................................................................803
3.10.19.2Message Types for Button 2 (Button2Messagetype)................................................................803
3.10.19.3Message Types for Button 3 (Button3Messagetype)................................................................804
3.10.19.4Message Types for Button 4 (Button4Messagetype)................................................................804

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3.10.19.5Message Types for Button 5 (Button5MessageType)...............................................................804

3.10.19.6Message Types for Button 6 (Button6Messagetype)................................................................804
3.10.19.7Message Types for Button 7 (Button7Messagetype)................................................................805
3.10.19.8Message Types for Button 8 (Button8Messagetype)................................................................805
3.10.20 "Status" Property Group............................................................................................................805
3.10.20.1Current Status (Index)...............................................................................................................805
3.10.20.2Bit Selection 0 (BitSelect0)........................................................................................................806
3.10.20.3Bit Selection 1 (BitSelect1)........................................................................................................806
3.10.20.4Bit Selection 2 (BitSelect2)........................................................................................................806
3.10.20.5Bit Selection 3 (BitSelect3)........................................................................................................806
3.10.20.6Flash Picture..............................................................................................................................807
3.10.20.7Flash Picture (FlashPicture)......................................................................................................807
3.10.20.8Flash Picture Referenced (FlashPicReferenced)......................................................................807
3.10.20.9Flash Picture Transparent Color (FlashPicTransColor).............................................................807
3.10.20.1 Flash Picture Transparent Color On (FlashPicUseTransColor)................................................808
0
3.10.20.1 Flashing Flash Picture Active (FlashFlashPicture)....................................................................808
1
3.10.20.1 Flash Picture Flash Frequency(FlashRateFlashPic).................................................................808
2
3.10.20.1 Basic Picture (BasePicture).......................................................................................................809
3
3.10.20.1 Basic Picture (BasePicture).......................................................................................................809
4
3.10.20.1 Basic Picture Referenced (BasePicReferenced).......................................................................809
5
3.10.20.1 Basic Picture Transparent Color (BasePicTransColor).............................................................809
6
3.10.20.1 Basic Picture Transparent Color On (BasePicUseTransColor).................................................810
7
3.10.20.1 Highest Index (MaxIndex)..........................................................................................................810
8
3.10.20.1 Index (Index)..............................................................................................................................810
9
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 16 (PrioBit16)...........................................................................................................810
0
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 17 (PrioBit17)...........................................................................................................810
1
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 18 (PrioBit18)...........................................................................................................811
2
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 19 (PrioBit19)...........................................................................................................811
3
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 20 (PrioBit20)...........................................................................................................811
4
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 21 (PrioBit21)...........................................................................................................811
5
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 22 (PrioBit22)...........................................................................................................811
6
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 23 (PrioBit23)...........................................................................................................812
7
3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 24 (PrioBit24)...........................................................................................................812
8

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3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 25 (PrioBit25)...........................................................................................................812

9
3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 26 (PrioBit26)...........................................................................................................812
0
3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 27 (PrioBit27)...........................................................................................................813
1
3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 28 (PrioBit28)...........................................................................................................813
2
3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 29 (PrioBit29)...........................................................................................................813
3
3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 30 (PrioBit30)...........................................................................................................813
4
3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 31 (PrioBit31)...........................................................................................................813
5
3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 0 (BitPosition0)................................................................................................814
6
3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 1 (BitPosition1)................................................................................................814
7
3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 2 (BitPosition2)................................................................................................814
8
3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 3 (BitPosition3)................................................................................................814
9
4

Process Picture Dynamics........................................................................................................................815

4

Resources.................................................................................................................................815

4.1

Process Picture Dynamics.........................................................................................................815

4.2

Types of Dynamization..............................................................................................................815

4.3

Using tag prefixes and server prefixes......................................................................................817

4.4
4.4.1
4.4.2
4.4.3
4.4.4

Trigger Types............................................................................................................................819
Trigger Types............................................................................................................................819
Cyclic Triggers...........................................................................................................................819
Tag Triggers..............................................................................................................................820
Event-Driven Triggers................................................................................................................822

4.5
4.5.1
4.5.2
4.5.3
4.5.4
4.5.5
4.5.6
4.5.7
4.5.8

Dynamic Wizard........................................................................................................................822
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard..........................................................................................822
Picture Functions.......................................................................................................................824
Picture Components..................................................................................................................827
Import Functions........................................................................................................................828
Standard Dynamics...................................................................................................................829
Color Dynamics with Table........................................................................................................833
System Functions......................................................................................................................835
SFC...........................................................................................................................................836

4.6
4.6.1
4.6.2
4.6.3

Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection.................................................................................838

Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection.................................................................................838
How to Configure a Tag Connection.........................................................................................838
Example: Dynamic Filling of Rectangle.....................................................................................840

4.7
4.7.1
4.7.2

Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection..............................................................................841

Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection..............................................................................841
Application Examples of Direct Connection...............................................................................842

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16

4.7.3
4.7.4

How to Configure a Direct Connection......................................................................................843

Example: Picture Change in Picture Window............................................................................844

4.8
4.8.1
4.8.2
4.8.3
4.8.4
4.8.5
4.8.6
4.8.7
4.8.8

Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog.....................................................................................846

Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog.....................................................................................846
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog......................................................848
Creating Expressions................................................................................................................850
Defining a Valid Range..............................................................................................................854
Monitoring Tag Status...............................................................................................................857
Monitoring Quality Code............................................................................................................859
Editing Triggers.........................................................................................................................862
Example: Color Change Depending on Position.......................................................................864

4.9
4.9.1
4.9.2
4.9.3
4.9.4
4.9.5
4.9.6

Dynamizing Using VBS Action..................................................................................................866

Dynamizing Using VBS Action..................................................................................................866
Working with VBS Actions.........................................................................................................867
Action Editor in Graphics Designer............................................................................................868
Working in Action Editor............................................................................................................871
How to Configure a VBS Action.................................................................................................874
Editing Triggers.........................................................................................................................875

4.10
4.10.1
4.10.2
4.10.3
4.10.4
4.10.5
4.10.6

Dynamizing Using C Action.......................................................................................................877

Dynamizing Using C Action.......................................................................................................877
Working with C Actions..............................................................................................................878
How to Configure a C Action.....................................................................................................879
How to Apply Functions in the Action Code..............................................................................882
Editing Triggers.........................................................................................................................883
Importing and Exporting Actions................................................................................................886

Setting up a Message System..................................................................................................................887

5

Resources.................................................................................................................................887

5.1

WinCC Alarm Logging...............................................................................................................887

5.2

Message System in WinCC.......................................................................................................887

5.3
5.3.1
5.3.2
5.3.3
5.3.3.1
5.3.3.2
5.3.3.3
5.3.3.4
5.3.3.5

Principles of the Message System............................................................................................894

Principles of the Message System............................................................................................894
Alarm Logging...........................................................................................................................896
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging................................................................................................898
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging................................................................................................898
Adding and Removing Columns................................................................................................899
How to Change the Configuration Language............................................................................899
How to Integrate Add-Ins into the Message System.................................................................900
How to Change the Text Input Mode.........................................................................................901

5.4
5.4.1
5.4.2
5.4.3
5.4.3.1
5.4.3.2
5.4.3.3
5.4.3.4
5.4.3.5
5.4.4

Configuring the Message System..............................................................................................903

Configuring the Message System..............................................................................................903
How to Configure the Message System Using the System Wizard...........................................904
Working with Message Blocks...................................................................................................905
Working with Message Blocks...................................................................................................905
Description of System Blocks....................................................................................................907
How to Add Message Blocks.....................................................................................................909
How to Change the Properties of Message Blocks...................................................................910
How to Remove Message Blocks..............................................................................................912
Working with Message Classes.................................................................................................913
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5.4.4.1
5.4.4.2
5.4.4.3
5.4.4.4
5.4.4.5
5.4.4.6
5.4.4.7
5.4.4.8
5.4.4.9
5.4.4.10
5.4.5
5.4.5.1
5.4.5.2
5.4.5.3
5.4.5.4
5.4.5.5
5.4.5.6
5.4.5.7
5.4.5.8
5.4.5.9
5.4.5.10
5.4.5.11
5.4.5.12
5.4.5.13
5.4.5.14
5.4.6
5.4.6.1
5.4.6.2
5.4.6.3
5.4.6.4
5.4.6.5
5.4.6.6
5.4.6.7
5.4.7
5.4.7.1
5.4.7.2
5.4.7.3
5.4.7.4
5.4.7.5
5.4.7.6
5.4.7.7

Working with Message Classes.................................................................................................913

System Message Classes.........................................................................................................914
How to Add Message Classes...................................................................................................915
How to Configure Message Classes.........................................................................................916
How to Delete Message Classes...............................................................................................917
How to Add Message Types for the Message Class.................................................................918
How to Change the Properties of Message Types....................................................................920
How to Remove Message Types...............................................................................................921
How to Configure the Acknowledgement of a Message Class..................................................922
How to Configure the Status Texts of a Message Class...........................................................925
Working with Single Messages..................................................................................................927
Working with Single Messages..................................................................................................927
Parameters of a Single Message..............................................................................................928
How to Create a Single Message..............................................................................................931
How to Delete a Single Message..............................................................................................931
Tags of a Single Message.........................................................................................................932
How to Specify the Message Texts of a Single Message..........................................................938
How to Insert Process Values in User Text Blocks...................................................................940
How to Link a Picture to a Single Message...............................................................................943
How to Configure the Hiding of Messages................................................................................945
Description of WinCC System Messages..................................................................................950
How To Insert WinCC System Messages.................................................................................960
Importing and Exporting Messages...........................................................................................962
How to Edit Multiple Messages.................................................................................................967
How to Assign Texts to Multiple Messages...............................................................................969
Working with Group Messages..................................................................................................970
Working with Group Messages..................................................................................................970
Status Tag of a Group Message................................................................................................971
Lock Tag of a Group Message..................................................................................................973
Acknowledgement Tag of a Group Message............................................................................974
Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message.............................................................................975
How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes...........................977
User-defined group message....................................................................................................978
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring...................................................................................984
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring...................................................................................984
Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring....................................................................................985
How to specify the tag to be monitored.....................................................................................986
How to Change the Properties of a Tag to be Monitored..........................................................988
How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored......................................................................989
How to Delete Objects of the Limit Value Monitoring................................................................991
Examples of Configuring a Limit Value......................................................................................992

5.5
5.5
5.5.1
5.5.2
5.5.2.1
5.5.2.2
5.5.2.3
5.5.2.4
5.5.2.5
5.5.2.6
5.5.3

Message Archiving....................................................................................................................994
Resources.................................................................................................................................994
Message Archiving in WinCC....................................................................................................994
Configuration of Message Archiving..........................................................................................995
Configuration of Message Archiving..........................................................................................995
How to Configure Messages for Archiving................................................................................997
How to Configure a Message Archive.......................................................................................998
How to Configure the Archive Backup.....................................................................................1000
How to Link an Archive Backup...............................................................................................1002
How to Disconnect an Archive Backup....................................................................................1004
Output of Message Archive Data.............................................................................................1004

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18

5.5.3.1
5.5.3.2
5.5.3.3
5.5.3.4
5.5.3.5
5.5.4

Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime..........................................................................1004

How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime......................................................................1005
How to Configure Reloading of Messages Following a Power Failure....................................1007
How to Configure a Message Archive Report.........................................................................1008
Direct Access to the Archive Database...................................................................................1010
Message Server......................................................................................................................1012

5.6
5.6
5.6.1
5.6.2
5.6.2.1
5.6.2.2
5.6.2.3
5.6.2.4
5.6.2.5
5.6.2.6
5.6.2.7
5.6.2.8
5.6.2.9
5.6.2.10
5.6.2.11
5.6.3
5.6.3.1
5.6.3.2
5.6.3.3
5.6.3.4
5.6.3.5
5.6.3.6
5.6.4
5.6.4.1
5.6.4.2
5.6.4.3
5.6.4.4
5.6.4.5
5.6.4.6
5.6.4.7

Display of Messages during Runtime......................................................................................1014

Resources...............................................................................................................................1014
WinCC AlarmControl...............................................................................................................1014
Configuring the AlarmControl..................................................................................................1015
How to configure the AlarmControl..........................................................................................1015
How to configure the message blocks.....................................................................................1016
How to define the content of the message window.................................................................1018
How to configure the display for the table...............................................................................1021
How to configure the toolbar and the status bar .....................................................................1025
How to Configure a Hit List of Messages................................................................................1029
How to configure operator messages......................................................................................1031
How to export runtime data.....................................................................................................1034
How to define the effect of the online configuration................................................................1036
SQL statements for filtering messages in AlarmControl..........................................................1038
How to make the toolbar for the AlarmControl dynamic..........................................................1041
Operation during runtime.........................................................................................................1042
Operating the AlarmControl in runtime....................................................................................1042
How to Select Messages.........................................................................................................1046
How to Lock and Unlock Messages........................................................................................1048
How to Perform an Emergency Acknowledgement.................................................................1050
How to Sort the Display of Messages......................................................................................1051
How to Hide and Unhide Messages........................................................................................1054
AlarmControl example project.................................................................................................1055
Examples of configuring an AlarmControl...............................................................................1055
How to Configure the Message System..................................................................................1056
How to Configure Single Messages........................................................................................1059
How to configure the AlarmControl in the Graphics Designer.................................................1061
How to Configure Buttons for Changing Message Tags.........................................................1067
Example of making the toolbar of the AlarmControl dynamic..................................................1068
How to operate the example on AlarmControl.........................................................................1068

5.7
5.7
5.7.1
5.7.2
5.7.2.1
5.7.2.2
5.7.2.3
5.7.2.4
5.7.2.5
5.7.2.6
5.7.2.7
5.7.3
5.7.3.1
5.7.3.2
5.7.3.3

Before WinCC V7: Display of Messages during Runtime........................................................1070

Resources...............................................................................................................................1070
WinCC Alarm Control..............................................................................................................1070
Configuration of the Alarm Control..........................................................................................1071
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control..............................................................................1071
How to Configure the Message System..................................................................................1072
How to Configure Single Messages........................................................................................1075
How to Configure the Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer...............................................1077
How to Configure Buttons for Changing Message Tags.........................................................1083
How to Configure a Hit List of Messages................................................................................1084
How to Activate the Example for Alarm Control......................................................................1090
Operation during runtime.........................................................................................................1091
Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime............................................................................1091
How to Select Messages.........................................................................................................1093
How to Lock and Unlock Messages........................................................................................1096

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5.7.3.4
5.7.3.5
5.7.3.6
5.7.3.7
5.7.3.8
5.7.4
6

How to Hide and Show Messages...........................................................................................1100

How to Perform an Emergency Acknowledgement.................................................................1102
How to Sort the Display of Messages......................................................................................1104
Standard Functions for Operation of WinCC Alarm Control....................................................1106
Example of the Use of Standard Functions.............................................................................1108
SQL Statements for Filtering of Messages in Alarm Control...................................................1112

Archiving Process Values.......................................................................................................................1115

6

Resources...............................................................................................................................1115

6.1

Archiving Process Values........................................................................................................1115

6.2

Process Value Archiving in WinCC.........................................................................................1115

6.3
6.3.1
6.3.2
6.3.3
6.3.3.1
6.3.3.2
6.3.3.3
6.3.3.4
6.3.3.5
6.3.4
6.3.4.1
6.3.4.2
6.3.4.3
6.3.4.4
6.3.4.5
6.3.4.6
6.3.4.7
6.3.5
6.3.6
6.3.7

Basics of Process Values Archiving........................................................................................1117

Basics of Process Values Archiving........................................................................................1117
Process Value Archiving for Multi-User Projects.....................................................................1118
Process Values and Tags........................................................................................................1120
Process Values and Tags........................................................................................................1120
External and Internal Tags......................................................................................................1120
Telegram Tags........................................................................................................................1121
Structure of a Telegram with Raw Data Tags..........................................................................1122
Diagnostic Tags of Tag Logging Runtime...............................................................................1126
Archiving Methods...................................................................................................................1126
Archiving Methods...................................................................................................................1126
Cycles and Events...................................................................................................................1127
Continuous cyclic process value archiving..............................................................................1129
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving...............................................................................1131
Acyclic Process Value Archiving.............................................................................................1133
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving..........................................................................1134
Compressed Archive...............................................................................................................1135
Storing Process Values...........................................................................................................1136
Swapping Out Process Values................................................................................................1138
Significance of Archive Value Flags........................................................................................1140

6.4
6.4.1
6.4.2
6.4.3
6.4.3.1
6.4.3.2
6.4.3.3
6.4.4
6.4.4.1
6.4.4.2
6.4.4.3
6.4.4.4
6.4.4.5
6.4.4.6
6.4.5
6.4.6
6.4.7
6.4.8
6.4.9

Configuration of Process Value Archiving...............................................................................1142

Configuration of Process Value Archiving...............................................................................1142
Tag Logging.............................................................................................................................1142
Configuring Archives...............................................................................................................1144
Configuring Archives...............................................................................................................1144
How to Configure a Process Value Archive.............................................................................1144
How to Configure Compressed Archives.................................................................................1147
Creating Archive Tags.............................................................................................................1150
Creating Archive Tags.............................................................................................................1150
How to Configure a New Timer...............................................................................................1151
How to Create a Binary Archive Tag.......................................................................................1153
How to Create an Analog Archive Tag....................................................................................1159
How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag................................................................................1167
How to Create a Compressed Tag..........................................................................................1170
How to Configure the Data Buffer on the Hard Disk................................................................1174
How to Configure Archive........................................................................................................1175
How to Configure an Archive Backup......................................................................................1177
How to Link an Archive Backup...............................................................................................1180
How to Disconnect an Archive Backup....................................................................................1181

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Table of contents

20

6.4.10

How to Assign Archive Tags to Archive Types........................................................................1182

6.5
6.5.1
6.5.2
6.5.2.1
6.5.2.2
6.5.2.3
6.5.2.4
6.5.3
6.5.3.1
6.5.4
6.5.4.1
6.5.4.2
6.5.4.3
6.5.4.4

Output of Process Values........................................................................................................1184

Output of Process Values........................................................................................................1184
Process Value Output in Process Pictures..............................................................................1184
Process value output in process pictures................................................................................1184
Process Value Output in Table Format...................................................................................1186
Process Value Output in the Form of Trends in Process Pictures..........................................1220
Process Value Output as a Function of Another Tag..............................................................1274
Process value output in reports...............................................................................................1313
Process value output in reports...............................................................................................1313
Process value output before WinCC V7..................................................................................1315
Process value output in process pictures before WinCC V7...................................................1315
Before WinCC V7: Process Value Output in Table Format.....................................................1316
Before WinCC V7: Process Value Output in the Form of Trends in Process Pictures............1337
Before WinCC V7: Process Value Output as a Function of Another Tag................................1373

6.6

Direct Access to the Archive Database...................................................................................1423

6.7
6.7.1
6.7.2
6.7.3
6.7.4
6.7.5
6.7.6
6.7.6.1
6.7.6.2
6.7.6.3

Function Call Templates..........................................................................................................1425

Function Call Templates..........................................................................................................1425
Function During Start of Archiving...........................................................................................1425
Function for Conversion of Tag Values...................................................................................1426
Function to Start Archiving......................................................................................................1427
Function to Stop Archiving.......................................................................................................1427
Appendix..................................................................................................................................1428
Action for Swap-Out................................................................................................................1428
Action upon Sending...............................................................................................................1429
Action upon Reception............................................................................................................1429

Documentation of Configuration and Runtime Data...............................................................................1431

7

Resources...............................................................................................................................1431

7.1

The WinCC Reporting System................................................................................................1431

7.2

Documentation of Configuration and Runtime Data................................................................1431

7.3

How to Set Up Reports in the Page Layout.............................................................................1433

7.4

How to Create Reports in Line Layout.....................................................................................1435

7.5
7.5.1
7.5.2
7.5.3
7.5.4

Print Jobs in WinCC................................................................................................................1436

Print Jobs in WinCC................................................................................................................1436
Print Job Properties.................................................................................................................1438
Selecting the Print Range........................................................................................................1440
Defining a Printer.....................................................................................................................1442

7.6
7.6.1
7.6.2
7.6.3
7.6.4
7.6.5
7.6.6
7.6.7
7.6.8
7.6.9

Project Documentation............................................................................................................1445
Introduction to Project Documentation....................................................................................1445
How to Output Project Documentation....................................................................................1446
How to Open a Project Documentation Preview.....................................................................1448
How to Create a New Print Job...............................................................................................1450
How to Change an Existing Print Job......................................................................................1452
Project Documentation in the WinCC Explorer........................................................................1454
Project Documentation in the Graphics Designer....................................................................1455
Project Documentation in Alarm Logging................................................................................1457
Project Documentation in Tag Logging...................................................................................1459
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Table of contents

7.6.10
7.6.11
7.6.12
7.6.13
7.6.14
7.6.15
7.6.16
7.6.17
7.6.18

Project Documentation in Global Script...................................................................................1460

Project Documentation in the Text Library..............................................................................1462
Project Documentation in the User Administrator....................................................................1463
Project Documentation in the Time Synchronization Editor....................................................1464
Project Documentation in the Audio Alarm Editor...................................................................1465
Project Documentation in the Picture Tree Manager...............................................................1466
Project Documentation in Lifebeat Monitoring.........................................................................1467
Project Documentation in the OS Project Editor......................................................................1467
Project Documentation in the Component List Editor..............................................................1468

7.7
7.7.1
7.7.2
7.7.3
7.7.4
7.7.5
7.7.6
7.7.6.1
7.7.6.2
7.7.6.3
7.7.6.4
7.7.7
7.7.8
7.7.9
7.7.9.1
7.7.9.2
7.7.9.3
7.7.9.4
7.7.9.5
7.7.9.6
7.7.9.7
7.7.9.8
7.7.9.9

Runtime Documentation..........................................................................................................1469
Introduction to Runtime Documentation..................................................................................1469
How to Create Layouts for Runtime Documentation...............................................................1473
How to create print jobs for the Runtime documentation.........................................................1474
How to Change Output Options in Runtime............................................................................1476
Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation...........................................................1479
Reporting Messages in Runtime.............................................................................................1484
Reporting Messages in Runtime.............................................................................................1484
How to Output Runtime Data from the Message Lists............................................................1485
How to Output Online Data with Message Sequence Report..................................................1486
How to Create a User-Defined Message Sequence Report....................................................1489
Reporting Process Values in Runtime.....................................................................................1490
How to Output Data from User Archives.................................................................................1491
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources...............................................................................1492
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources...............................................................................1492
How to Output Data from an ODBC Database in a Report.....................................................1493
How to Output Data from a CSV Table in a Log......................................................................1495
Example of the Output of CSV Files in a Report.....................................................................1496
Requirements to be Met by a CSV File for Reporting.............................................................1498
How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Log Object..........................................................1501
How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Key Combination................................................1502
Output Parameters for Hard Copy...........................................................................................1504
How to Output Data from a COM Server in a Report..............................................................1509

7.8
7.8.1
7.8.2
7.8.3

Appendix..................................................................................................................................1510
System Layouts for Project Documentation............................................................................1510
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation..................................................1513
Filter criteria for alarm output...................................................................................................1515

Creating Page Layouts...........................................................................................................................1519

8

Resources...............................................................................................................................1519

8.1

Creating Page Layouts............................................................................................................1519

8.2

How to Start the Page Layout Editor.......................................................................................1519

8.3
8.3.1
8.3.2
8.3.3
8.3.3.1
8.3.3.2
8.3.3.3
8.3.3.4
8.3.3.5

The Page Layout Editor...........................................................................................................1520

The Page Layout Editor...........................................................................................................1520
The Standard Toolbar..............................................................................................................1523
The Object Palette...................................................................................................................1525
The Object Palette...................................................................................................................1525
Standard Objects.....................................................................................................................1526
Objects for the Runtime Documentation..................................................................................1529
COM Server Objects...............................................................................................................1531
Objects for the Project Documentation....................................................................................1532

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Table of contents

22

8.3.4
8.3.5
8.3.6
8.3.7
8.3.8
8.3.9
8.3.10
8.3.10.1
8.3.10.2
8.3.10.3
8.3.10.4
8.3.10.5
8.3.10.6

The Style Palette.....................................................................................................................1533

The Alignment Palette.............................................................................................................1533
The Zoom Palette....................................................................................................................1535
The Color Palette.....................................................................................................................1536
The Font Palette......................................................................................................................1537
The Status Bar.........................................................................................................................1538
Customizing the Working Environment...................................................................................1538
Customizing the Working Environment...................................................................................1538
How to Create Custom Colors.................................................................................................1539
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes....................................................................1540
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes...............................................................................1540
How to Change the Standard Toolbar.....................................................................................1541
The Basic Settings of the Page Layout Editor.........................................................................1543

8.4
8.4.1
8.4.2
8.4.3
8.4.4
8.4.5

Working with Layouts..............................................................................................................1548

Working with Layouts..............................................................................................................1548
Layout File Operations............................................................................................................1549
How to Display the Layout Properties.....................................................................................1553
Changing Predefined Layouts.................................................................................................1554
Working with Multiple Layouts.................................................................................................1556

8.5
8.5.1
8.5.2
8.5.3
8.5.4
8.5.5
8.5.6
8.5.6.1
8.5.6.2
8.5.6.3
8.5.7
8.5.7.1
8.5.7.2
8.5.7.3
8.5.7.4
8.5.7.5
8.5.7.6
8.5.7.7
8.5.7.8
8.5.7.9
8.5.7.10
8.5.8
8.5.8.1
8.5.8.2
8.5.8.3
8.5.8.4
8.5.8.5
8.5.9
8.5.9.1
8.5.9.2
8.5.9.3
8.5.9.4

Working with Objects...............................................................................................................1558

Working with Objects...............................................................................................................1558
The coordinate system in the Report Designer.......................................................................1559
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object...................................................................................1560
How to Paste an Object into a Layout.....................................................................................1562
How to Edit Objects.................................................................................................................1563
Multiple Selection of Objects...................................................................................................1565
Multiple Selection of Objects...................................................................................................1565
How to Select Multiple Objects................................................................................................1567
How to Align Multiple Objects..................................................................................................1568
The Properties of an Object.....................................................................................................1570
The Properties of an Object.....................................................................................................1570
The Object Properties Window................................................................................................1570
How to Change an Attribute....................................................................................................1576
How to Transfer Object Properties..........................................................................................1577
How to Rename Objects..........................................................................................................1578
The Colors Property Group.....................................................................................................1579
The Geometry Property Group................................................................................................1581
The Font Property Group.........................................................................................................1584
The Miscellaneous Property Group.........................................................................................1585
The Styles Property Group......................................................................................................1587
Working with Standard Objects...............................................................................................1589
Working with Standard Objects...............................................................................................1589
Working with Static Objects.....................................................................................................1589
Working with Dynamic Standard Objects................................................................................1618
Working with System Objects..................................................................................................1631
Working with the Layout Object...............................................................................................1633
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation............................................................1634
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation............................................................1634
Modify output options for WinCC Online Table Control...........................................................1635
Modify output options for WinCC Online Trend Control..........................................................1640
Modify output options for WinCC Function Trend Control.......................................................1645

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Table of contents

8.5.9.5 Modify output options for WinCC Alarm Control......................................................................1649

8.5.9.6 Changing Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging.....................................1654
8.5.9.7 Changing Output Options for User Archive Tables.................................................................1658
8.5.9.8 How to Change the Output Options for CSV Provider Tables.................................................1662
8.5.9.9 How to Change the Output Options for CSV Provider Trends................................................1664
8.5.10 Working with Objects for the Project Documentation..............................................................1666
8.5.10.1 Working with Objects for the Project Documentation..............................................................1666
8.5.10.2 How to Call up the Selection Dialogs......................................................................................1668
8.5.10.3 How to Change Output Options for Single Message from Alarm Logging CS........................1670
8.5.10.4 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of User Archives..................................1671
8.5.10.5 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Views...............................................1673
8.5.10.6 How to Change the Output options for the Selection of the Picture Statistics.........................1675
8.5.10.7 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Attributes.........................................1677
8.5.10.8 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Object Statistics...............................1679
8.5.10.9 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Action types.....................................1680
8.5.10.10How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Archives from Tag Logging.............1682
8.5.10.11How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of the Archive Tags from Tag Logging....
1684
8.5.10.12How to Change the Output Options for the Language Selection from the Text Library..........1687
8.5.10.13How to Change the Output Options for the Tag Table of WinCC Explorer.............................1689
8.5.10.14How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Connection List................................1691
8.5.10.15How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Texts.....................................................1692
8.5.10.16How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Metafiles...............................................1693
8.5.10.17How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Tables without Data Selection..............1695
8.6
8.6.1
8.6.2
9

10

Appendix..................................................................................................................................1696
Requests to a CSV File for Reporting.....................................................................................1696
Filter Criteria for the Alarm Output...........................................................................................1699

Creating Line Layouts.............................................................................................................................1701

9

Resources...............................................................................................................................1701

9.1

Creating Line Layouts..............................................................................................................1701

9.2

How to Start the Line Layout Editor.........................................................................................1701

9.3
9.3.1
9.3.2
9.3.3
9.3.4
9.3.5
9.3.6

The Line Layout Editor............................................................................................................1703

The Line Layout Editor............................................................................................................1703
The Standard Toolbar..............................................................................................................1705
The Page Size and Margins Areas..........................................................................................1706
The Header and Footer Areas.................................................................................................1707
The Table Area........................................................................................................................1708
The Time Range......................................................................................................................1709

9.4
9.4.1
9.4.2
9.4.3
9.4.4
9.4.5

Working with the Line Layout Editor........................................................................................1710

Working with the Line Layout Editor........................................................................................1710
How to Set the Page Size........................................................................................................1710
How to Create Headers and Footers.......................................................................................1711
How to Create a Table in the Line Layout...............................................................................1712
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report.................................1713

Setting Up Multilingual Projects..............................................................................................................1717

10

Resources...............................................................................................................................1717

10.1

Setting Up Multilingual Projects...............................................................................................1717

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Table of contents

10.2
10.2.1
10.2.2
10.2.3
10.2.4
10.2.5
10.2.6
10.2.7
10.2.8
10.2.9

Language support in WinCC...................................................................................................1718

Language support in WinCC...................................................................................................1718
Language expressions in WinCC............................................................................................1719
Configuring Multiple Languages..............................................................................................1722
How to Create a Multilingual Project.......................................................................................1725
How to Switch the Language of the Operating System...........................................................1726
How to Change Languages in WinCC.....................................................................................1728
Fonts in Multilingual Projects...................................................................................................1729
Prohibited Characters in WinCC..............................................................................................1730
Configuring with Non-Latin Fonts............................................................................................1730

10.3
10.3.1
10.3.2
10.3.3
10.3.4
10.3.4.1
10.3.4.2
10.3.4.3
10.3.4.4
10.3.4.5
10.3.5
10.3.6

Text export and text import with the Text Distributor...............................................................1732

Text export and text import in the Text Distributor...................................................................1732
Text Distributor........................................................................................................................1733
How to export language-dependent texts................................................................................1736
Structure of the Export Files....................................................................................................1738
Overview of the export files.....................................................................................................1738
Construction of files with text from the Text Library.................................................................1739
Construction of files with text records from the "Graphics Designer" editor............................1740
Structure of the "_Languages" Files........................................................................................1742
Status bar for the export and import........................................................................................1743
How to translate the text records externally............................................................................1743
How to import language-dependent texts................................................................................1745

10.4
Text Management with the "Text Library" Editor.....................................................................1747
10.4.1 Text management with the "Text Library" editor......................................................................1747
10.4.2 How to export texts from the Text Library for the translation...................................................1749
10.4.3 How to import texts from the Text Library for the translation...................................................1751
10.4.4 Operator's overview of the Text Library...................................................................................1753
10.4.5 Working with the Text Library..................................................................................................1756
10.4.5.1 How to Add New Lines into the Text Library...........................................................................1756
10.4.5.2 How to Set the Language Font................................................................................................1756
10.4.5.3 How to Create a New Language.............................................................................................1756
10.4.5.4 How to Delete a Language......................................................................................................1758
10.4.5.5 How to copy cells or lines........................................................................................................1758
10.4.5.6 How to delete cell contents......................................................................................................1759
10.4.5.7 How to delete lines or areas....................................................................................................1760
10.4.5.8 How to find and replace text....................................................................................................1760
10.4.5.9 How to filter the display in the "Text Library" editor.................................................................1762
10.4.5.10How to find inconsistencies in the configuration......................................................................1763
10.4.5.11How to change the settings of the text library..........................................................................1764

24

10.5
10.5.1
10.5.2
10.5.3
10.5.4
10.5.5

Multilingual Pictures in the "Graphics Designer" Editor...........................................................1764

Multilingual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor............................................................1764
Language-dependent properties of picture objects.................................................................1766
How to export and import text from pictures............................................................................1768
How to configure picture objects for more languages in the "Graphics Designer" editor........1773
Configuring a Text List in Multiple Languages.........................................................................1775

10.6
10.6.1
10.6.2
10.6.3
10.6.4

Multilingual Messages in the "Alarm Logging" Editor..............................................................1776

Multilingual messages ............................................................................................................1776
How to export and import message text records for the translation........................................1777
How to translate the message text records in the "Text Library" editor...................................1781
How to translate the message text records in the "Alarm Logging" editor...............................1782
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11

10.7
10.7.1
10.7.2
10.7.3
10.7.4
10.7.5
10.7.6

Reports for Multilingual Projects..............................................................................................1786

Reports for Multilingual Projects..............................................................................................1786
Layout and layout file...............................................................................................................1786
How to change or create layouts.............................................................................................1788
How to change or create print jobs .........................................................................................1790
Creating Multilingual Project Documentation...........................................................................1792
Multilingual logs in runtime......................................................................................................1793

10.8

Displaying Regional Date and Time........................................................................................1793

10.9
10.9.1
10.9.2
10.9.3

Languages in Runtime.............................................................................................................1795
Languages in Runtime.............................................................................................................1795
How to Set the Runtime Computer Starting Configuration......................................................1796
Configuring Language Changes..............................................................................................1797

10.10
10.10.1
10.10.2
10.10.3
10.10.4
10.10.5

Example of Configuration........................................................................................................1798
Example of Configuration........................................................................................................1798
Example: How to Configure a Multilingual Graphic Object......................................................1799
Example: How to Configure Language Changes....................................................................1800
Example: How to Change Language in Runtime.....................................................................1802
Example: How to translate the text records in different linguistic regions...............................1807

Structure of the User Administration.......................................................................................................1809

11

Resources...............................................................................................................................1809

11.1

"User Adminstrator" Editor.......................................................................................................1809

11.2

Setting up user administration.................................................................................................1809

11.3

Tasks of the User Administrator..............................................................................................1810

11.4
11.4.1
11.4.2
11.4.3
11.4.3.1
11.4.3.2
11.4.3.3
11.4.3.4
11.4.3.5
11.4.3.6
11.4.3.7
11.4.3.8
11.4.4
11.4.4.1
11.4.4.2
11.4.4.3
11.4.4.4
11.4.5
11.4.6
11.4.6.1
11.4.6.2
11.4.6.3
11.4.6.4
11.4.6.5

Elements of User Administrator...............................................................................................1811

Structure of the User Administrator.........................................................................................1811
"File" Menu..............................................................................................................................1812
"User" Menu............................................................................................................................1813
"User" Menu............................................................................................................................1813
Setting Up Users.....................................................................................................................1814
Copying Users.........................................................................................................................1814
Adding Groups.........................................................................................................................1815
Deleting Users/Groups............................................................................................................1816
Changing Password................................................................................................................1816
Web Options............................................................................................................................1817
How to Change the Name of a User or Group........................................................................1817
"Table" Menu...........................................................................................................................1818
"Table" Menu...........................................................................................................................1818
Inserting Authorization.............................................................................................................1818
Deleting Authorizations............................................................................................................1819
Plant-Specific Authorizations...................................................................................................1819
"Chipcard" Menu......................................................................................................................1822
"AddOns" Menu.......................................................................................................................1822
"AddOns" Menu.......................................................................................................................1822
Tag Login.................................................................................................................................1823
Assignment Computer - Tag....................................................................................................1823
Configuration...........................................................................................................................1824
Assignment User - Value.........................................................................................................1825

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Table of contents

12

26

11.4.7
11.4.8
11.4.8.1
11.4.8.2
11.4.8.3
11.4.8.4
11.4.8.5
11.4.9

Toolbar....................................................................................................................................1826
The Project Window................................................................................................................1827
The Project Window................................................................................................................1827
Navigation Window..................................................................................................................1827
Table Window..........................................................................................................................1827
How to Set an Automatic Logout for a User............................................................................1829
How to Activate the "Login Only Via Chipcard" Function for a User........................................1829
Status bar................................................................................................................................1830

11.5
11.5.1
11.5.2
11.5.3

Procedure in User Administration............................................................................................1830

Overview of Configuring a User Administration.......................................................................1830
Calling an Authorization into Other Editors..............................................................................1831
Operation in Runtime...............................................................................................................1832

11.6
11.6.1
11.6.2
11.6.2.1
11.6.2.2
11.6.2.3
11.6.2.4
11.6.3
11.6.4
11.6.4.1
11.6.4.2
11.6.4.3
11.6.4.4
11.6.4.5
11.6.4.6
11.6.4.7

WinCC Options for Administrators...........................................................................................1832

WinCC Options for Administrators...........................................................................................1832
"Chipcard" Menu Extension.....................................................................................................1833
"Chipcard" Menu Extension.....................................................................................................1833
How to Set the Interface for the Chipcard Reader...................................................................1834
How to Write to a Chipcard......................................................................................................1835
How to Check a Chipcard........................................................................................................1836
Chipcard Reader in Runtime...................................................................................................1837
Option SIMATIC logon.............................................................................................................1837
Option SIMATIC logon.............................................................................................................1837
SIMATIC Logon service...........................................................................................................1838
How to use the SIMATIC Log on Service with WinCC............................................................1839
How to configure an electronic signature................................................................................1844
Example 1: Creating an electronic signature in a VBS action.................................................1845
Example 2: Creating an electronic signature in a C action......................................................1847
Notes re. Linking of WinCC/PCS7-OS....................................................................................1850

11.7
11.7.1
11.7.2
11.7.3
11.7.4

Overview of Authorizations......................................................................................................1851
Default Authorizations.............................................................................................................1851
System authorizations.............................................................................................................1853
Basis Process Control Authorizations.....................................................................................1854
PCS7 System Authorizations..................................................................................................1855

Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager............................................................................................1857

12

Resources...............................................................................................................................1857

12.1

Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager.............................................................................1857

12.2

Advantages and Prerequisites of Integration...........................................................................1857

12.3
12.3.1
12.3.2
12.3.2.1
12.3.2.2
12.3.2.3
12.3.2.4
12.3.2.5
12.3.2.6
12.3.3
12.3.3.1

Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager..........................................1861

Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager..........................................1861
WinCC Application...................................................................................................................1864
WinCC Application...................................................................................................................1864
How to Create a WinCC Application........................................................................................1865
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer..........................................................................1868
How to Select the Standby Computer.....................................................................................1872
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer...................................................................1875
How to Create a Reference to a WinCC Application...............................................................1876
Operator Station OS................................................................................................................1879
Operator Station OS................................................................................................................1879

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12.3.3.2
12.3.3.3
12.3.3.4
12.3.3.5
12.3.4
12.3.5
12.3.6
12.3.7
12.3.7.1
12.3.7.2
12.3.7.3
12.3.7.4
12.3.7.5
12.3.7.6
12.3.8
12.3.9

How to Create an Operator Station.........................................................................................1880

How to Set the Path to the Target Computer..........................................................................1880
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer...................................................................1884
How to Configure a Reference to an OS.................................................................................1885
How to Import a WinCC Project with the SIMATIC Manager..................................................1886
Handling WinCC Projects Between STEP 7 Projects and Libraries........................................1887
Accepting Language Settings from SIMATIC Managers.........................................................1888
Working With WinCC Objects..................................................................................................1889
Working With WinCC Objects..................................................................................................1889
How to Create WinCC Objects................................................................................................1890
How to Handle WinCC Objects...............................................................................................1891
How to Import WinCC Objects.................................................................................................1892
Setting Up and Monitoring of Server Assignment....................................................................1893
How to Create Model Solutions of WinCC Projects or WinCC Objects...................................1896
How to Open the WinCC Project.............................................................................................1897
Starting a Simulation in STEP 7..............................................................................................1898

12.4
12.4.1
12.4.2
12.4.2.1
12.4.2.2
12.4.2.3
12.4.2.4
12.4.3
12.4.4
12.4.5

Transferring Tags, Texts and Reports to WinCC....................................................................1899

Transferring Tags, Texts and Reports to WinCC....................................................................1899
Compiling OS..........................................................................................................................1900
Compiling OS..........................................................................................................................1900
How to Compile the Entire OS.................................................................................................1902
How to Compile Changes........................................................................................................1906
Compilation Log.......................................................................................................................1910
How to Display Transferred Tags............................................................................................1911
Displaying Transferred Messages and Texts..........................................................................1912
How to Configure Messages in STEP7...................................................................................1914

12.5

Compiling and Loading Objects...............................................................................................1917

12.6
12.6.1
12.6.2
12.6.2.1
12.6.2.2
12.6.2.3
12.6.2.4
12.6.3
12.6.3.1
12.6.3.2
12.6.3.3

Selection of STEP 7 Symbols..................................................................................................1919

Selection of STEP 7 Symbols..................................................................................................1919
Tag Selection Dialog...............................................................................................................1920
Tag Selection Dialog...............................................................................................................1920
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols............................................................................................1921
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols..............................................................................................1924
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols...........................................................................................1926
Tag Bar....................................................................................................................................1929
Tag Bar....................................................................................................................................1929
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols............................................................................................1930
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols..............................................................................................1932

12.7
12.7.1
12.7.2
12.7.2.1
12.7.2.2
12.7.2.3
12.7.3
12.7.4
12.7.4.1
12.7.4.2
12.7.4.3

Diagnostic Support..................................................................................................................1935
Diagnostic Support..................................................................................................................1935
Network Entry Jump................................................................................................................1935
Network Entry Jump................................................................................................................1935
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump..............................................................................1936
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump.............................................................................1937
Network Return........................................................................................................................1941
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis..................................................................................................1943
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis..................................................................................................1943
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis.......................................................................1944
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics...........................................1944

Index.......................................................................................................................................................1951
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Working with Projects

1

Resources

1.1

Working with Projects

Content
Before you can monitor and control a process, you must first create a project in WinCC. You
define all necessary elements and settings in this project.
This section shows you
How to open and close WinCC and the WinCC Explorer
The structure of the WinCC Explorer
The types of project in WinCC
How to create a project and work with it
How to activate and deactivate a project
How to copy a project

1.2

Opening WinCC Explorer

Introduction
When you start WinCC, the WinCC Explorer normally is opened.
After installation, WinCC is entered in the start menu of the operating system. WinCC can be
started with the "WinCC V7.0" command.
The WinCC Explorer can also be opened from the desktop or using the Windows Explorer.
Note
If you only have a Runtime license installed on a computer, you can only work in the WinCC
Explorer or in a WinCC editor for one hour. If the WinCC Explorer or a WinCC editor remains
open for more than one hour, WinCC changes to the demonstration mode.

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Working with Projects

1.2 Opening WinCC Explorer

Principle
You can open the WinCC Explorer in the following ways:
from the Windows Start menu
by clicking the WinCCExplorer.exe file in the Windows Explorer
using a shortcut from the Windows Desktop
in the Windows Explorer using the <PROJECT>.MCP
with Autostart
with a project that opens in Autostart
You can start WinCC only once on a computer. If you attempt to open the WinCC Explorer
when it is already open, this will be prevented without an error message. You can continue to
work normally in the open WinCC Explorer.

Start Mode of the WinCC Explorer

Open project
When you start WinCC the first time, the WinCC Explorer is opened without a project.
Whenever you start WinCC again, the last project you had open will be opened again.
With the key combination <SHIFT> + <ALT>, you can prevent WinCC from opening a project
immediately. Press the <SHIFT> key and the <ALT> key while WinCC is opening. Keep the
keys pressed until the window of the WinCC Explorer is displayed. The WinCC Explorer opens
without opening a project.

Activated Project
If the project was activated when you exited WinCC Runtime, it will be opened in Runtime
again when you restart WinCC.
If you close a project and open another project that was opened the last time in the activated
state, WinCC once again opens the project in Runtime.
With the key combination <SHIFT> + <CTRL>, you can prevent WinCC activating Runtime
immediately. Press the <SHIFT> key and the <CTRL> key while WinCC is opening. Keep the
keys pressed until the project is open and displayed fully in the WinCC Explorer. WinCC opens
the last project without starting Runtime.

Opening WinCC Explorer

Windows Start Menu
You can open the WinCC Explorer from the Windows Start menu. In the folder SIMATIC >
WinCC, select the entry "WinCC V7.0". WinCC Explorer is opened.

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1.2 Opening WinCC Explorer

Windows Explorer
You can start WinCC with the WinCCExplorer.exe start file. The WinCCExplorer.exe file can
be found in the Windows Explorer in your installation path in WinCC\bin.

Windows Desktop
You can create a shortcut for the WinCCExplorer.exe file. You then place this shortcut on the
desktop of the computer.

Opening a Project in the Windows Explorer

You can start WinCC by opening a WinCC project in the Windows Explorer. Open the
<PROJECT>.MCP file in the installation path of the project.
You can only start a project from the Windows Explorer when WinCC has not yet started.

Autostart
You can also start WinCC using Autostart when the computer starts up. Create a shortcut to
the WinCCExplorer.exe file and move this shortcut to the Autostart folder of your computer.
Each time you start the Windows system, WinCC will also be started automatically.

Opening the WinCC Explorer with a Project Open

You can close the WinCC Explorer without closing the open project. You can reopen the WinCC
Explorer from the Windows Start menu or by clicking a shortcut on the desktop. This also
applies even if you open a project using Autostart only in Runtime.

Remote WinCC Startup

You can start WinCC of another computer in the network. You find more detailed information
in the WinCC Information System under Configurations > Multi-User Systems > Remote
Configuration.

Open project
File > Open
In the WinCC Explorer, you open a project with the Open command in the File menu. In the
Open window, select the project folder and open the <PROJECT>.MCP project file.

File > Last File

In the File menu, you can open one of the last files opened with the Last File command. Up to
eight projects are displayed.

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Working with Projects

1.3 Closing WinCC Explorer

"Open" Button
You can open a project with the

button in the toolbar.

Opening a Project with Autostart

You can open a specific project using Autostart when your computer starts up. To do this, use
the Autostart tool of WinCC.
Note
If you open a project while another project is active in Runtime, Runtime is deactivated and
the previously active project is closed.

See also
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer (Page146)
Elements of the WinCC Explorer (Page35)
How to Start Runtime (Page132)
Closing WinCC Explorer (Page32)

1.3

Closing WinCC Explorer

Introduction
When you close the WinCC Explorer, you normally close the project that was last open at the
same time.
If Runtime is activated, or if you have opened a WinCC editor, you can close the WinCC
Explorer separately. The project remains open and active if it was already active. Open editors
are not closed. You can open the WinCC Explorer again from the Windows Start menu or from
a shortcut on the desktop.
You can close the WinCC Explorer regardless of whether a project is open. The relevant
WinCC processes continue to run in the background. When you open the WinCC Explorer
again, WinCC does not need to reload the project data and the Explorer takes less time to
open.

Principle
You can exit WinCC in the following ways:
With the Exit command in the WinCC Explorer menu bar
With the Shut Down command in the WinCC Explorer menu bar
With the Close button

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1.3 Closing WinCC Explorer
When you shut down Windows
With a C action in the activated project
Note
After starting, WinCC always opens the last project that was open before you exited. If the
project was activated when you exited WinCC, it will be opened in Runtime again.

Closing WinCC Explorer

File > Exit
Close the WinCC Explorer with the Exit command in the File menu. The Exit WinCC Explorer
dialog box is opened.
In the list box, you can select one of the following options:
Selection

WinCC Action

Close project and exit WinCC

Explorer

If active, the project is also deactivated and closed. The WinCC

Explorer and all open WinCC editors are closed.

Exit WinCC Explorer

Only the WinCC Explorer closes. The project remains open and
active if it was already active. WinCC editors remain open.

File > Shut Down

In the File menu of the menu bar, select the Shut Down command. Depending on your
computer configuration, you can exit WinCC with Shut Down and at the same time shut down
the computer.

Close Button
You can close the WinCC Explorer with the

button in the top right corner of the window.

Exiting Windows
When you exit Windows or log off the current user, WinCC closes completely.

C Action in the Activated Project

You can, for example, configure a button in the project with which you can exit WinCC or
Windows. To do this, use the Exit WinCC or Exit WinCC or Windows dynamic wizards.

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Working with Projects

1.4 The WinCC Explorer

See also
Elements of the WinCC Explorer (Page35)
How to Exit Runtime (Page137)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)

1.4

The WinCC Explorer

1.4.1

The WinCC Explorer

Introduction
When you start WinCC, the WinCC Explorer is opened. With the WinCC Explorer, you can
Create a project
Open a project
Manage project data and archives
Open editors
Activate or deactivate a project.

See also
Activating Project (Page132)
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer (Page146)
Elements of the WinCC Explorer (Page35)
Closing WinCC Explorer (Page32)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)

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1.4 The WinCC Explorer

1.4.2

Elements of the WinCC Explorer

Structure of the WinCC Explorer

The user interface of the WinCC Explorer consists of the elements shown in the screenshot:

Title bar

Menu bar

Toolbar

Navigation window

Data Window

Status bar

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Working with Projects

1.4 The WinCC Explorer

See also
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer (Page146)
Search Function (Page44)
Windows of the WinCC Explorer (Page41)
Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer (Page40)
Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer (Page39)
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer (Page36)

1.4.3

Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer

Introduction
The menu bar of the WinCC Explorer includes most of the commands that you can use in the
Windows Explorer. Commands that you cannot use in the current situation are disabled
(displayed in gray).
Some commands are available only when you open the Pop-up menu of an element in a
window.
Some commands can be activated using the key combinations (shortcut keys) familiar from
Windows.
The following tables provide brief information on the commands in the menu bar. The Online
Help (Chapter) column indicates the relevant chapters in the WinCC Information System that
contain more detailed information.

File Menu
The File menu includes the following commands:
Command

Key combination

Function

Online help (chapter)

New

<CTRL+N>

Creates a new project.

Working with Projects >

Creating and Editing Projects

Open

<CTRL+O>

Opens an existing project.

Working with Projects >

Creating and Editing Projects

Close

---

Closes an open project.

Working with Projects >

Creating and Editing Projects

Activate

---

Starts an open project in Runtime.

Working with Projects >

Activate project

Print Project
Documentation

---

Prints the project documentation.

Documentation of
Configuration and Runtime
Data > Project Documentation

View Project
Documentation

---

Starts the print preview of the project

documentation.

Documentation of
Configuration and Runtime
Data > Project Documentation

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1.4 The WinCC Explorer
Command

Key combination

Function

Online help (chapter)

Project Documentation
- Setup

---

Sets up the project documentation for

printing.

Documentation of
Configuration and Runtime
Data > Project Documentation

Recent File

---

Displays the most recently opened projects Working with Projects >
up to a maximum of eight. You can select Creating and Editing Projects
one of the projects and open it.

Exit

<ALT+F4>

Opens a dialog in which you can close the

WinCC Explorer.

Shut Down

---

Exits WinCC and shuts down the computer. Working with projects >
Closing the WinCC Explorer

Working with projects >

Closing the WinCC Explorer

Edit Menu
The Edit menu includes the following commands:
Command

Key combination

Function

Online Help (Chapter)

Undo

<CTRL+Z>

Undoes the last action. This command is not

available for all actions.

---

Cut

<CTRL+X>

Cuts the selected object. With Paste, the object

can be moved to another location.

---

Copy

<CTRL+C>

Copies the selected object to the clipboard.

---

Paste

<CTRL+V>

Pastes a copied or cut object.

---

Delete

<DEL>

Deletes a selected element.

---

Properties

---

Displays the Properties dialog of a selected

element.

Refer to the description of the

relevant editor.

View Menu
The View menu includes the following commands:
Command

Key combination

Function

Online Help (Chapter)

Toolbars

---

Displays or hides the toolbar.

Working with Projects > The

WinCC Explorer

Status Bar

---

Displays or hides the status bar.

Working with Projects > The

WinCC Explorer

Large Symbols ---

Displays the elements in the data window as

large symbols.

---

Small Symbols ---

Displays the elements in the data window as

small symbols.

---

List

---

Displays the elements in the data window as a

list of names.

---

Details

---

Displays the elements in the data window as a

list of names with additional information, for
example date modified and file type.

Refer to the description of the

relevant editor.

Refresh

<F5>

Refreshes the view in the data window.

---

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Working with Projects

1.4 The WinCC Explorer

Tools Menu
The Tools menu includes the following commands:
Command

Key combination

Function

Online help (chapter)

Language

---

Changes the user interface language of the

WinCC Explorer and editors.

Structure of Multi-language
Projects > Language Support in
WinCC

Status of
Driver
Connections

---

Displays the status of logical connections in the

project.

Communication Diagnostics>
Channel Diagnostics

Status of
Server
Connections

---

Displays the communication in a multi-user

system in the WinCC client or in the WinCC
server for a server-server communication.

Working with Projects > The

WinCC Explorer

Green = Connection status: Data exchange

takes place when established.
The communication between two computers
and not the redundance status is displayed
here. Multiple green symbols do not mean
multiple master servers.

gray = connection status Established, no data
exchange.

Red = Connection status: Disconnected.
? = Status unknown.
Status of
Client
Connections

---

Displays the current status of all servers and

clients involved in a WinCC server.

Working with Projects > The

WinCC Explorer

Green = Connection status: Data exchange

takes place when established.
The communication between two computers
and not the redundance status is displayed
here. Multiple green symbols do not mean
multiple master servers.

gray = connection status Established, no data
exchange.

Red = Connection status: Disconnected.
? = Status unknown.

Help Menu
The Help menu includes the following commands:
Command

Key combination

Function

Online help (chapter)

Contents
and Index

<F1>

Opens the WinCC information system.

---

Direct Help

<SHIFT+F1>

Activates the direct help (What's this?).

---

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1.4 The WinCC Explorer
Command

Key combination

Function

Online help (chapter)

Use Help

---

Tips on working with help.

---

About
WinCC
Explorer

---

Displays the installed version and the installed

components of WinCC.

---

See also
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer (Page146)
Activating Project (Page132)
Closing WinCC Explorer (Page32)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
Windows of the WinCC Explorer (Page41)
Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer (Page40)
Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer (Page39)

1.4.4

Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer

Introduction
Using the buttons in the toolbar, you can activate commands. You can also hide the toolbar
in the WinCC Explorer by selecting the View menu in the menu bar and clicking the Toolbar
command.

Buttons in the Toolbar

The toolbar in the WinCC Explorer contains buttons with the following functions:
Icon

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Tooltip

Description

New

Creates a new project.

Open

Opens a project.

Deactivate

Exits Runtime.

Activate

Starts the project in Runtime.

Cut

Cuts a selected object. The object is deleted at its original location as soon
as it is pasted elsewhere.

Copy

Copies an object to the clipboard. The object can be duplicated at the same
location or a comparable location in the path.

Paste

Pastes a cut or copied object.

39

Working with Projects

1.4 The WinCC Explorer
Icon

Tooltip

Description

Large
Symbols

Elements in the data window are displayed as large symbols.

Small
Symbols

Elements in the data window are displayed as small symbols.

List

Elements in the data window are displayed as a list of names only.

Details

Elements in the data window are displayed as a list with detailed information.

Properties

Opens the Properties dialog of an element.

Help

Activates the direct help for an element you then left click.

For more information on the commands, refer to chapter Menu Bar.

See also
Activating Project (Page132)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
Windows of the WinCC Explorer (Page41)
Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer (Page40)
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer (Page36)

1.4.5

Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer

Introduction
The status bar and title bar contain general information on the project and settings in the editor.

Title bar
The current path of the open WinCC project is displayed.

Status bar

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1.4 The WinCC Explorer
Field

Description

Status

Displays tips on editing and displays the current path of a file.

Number of configured tags /

Number of power tags

Number of configured external tags / number of tags covered by

a license

Object(s)

Number of objects of the selected editor, e.g. the number of

pictures in Graphics Designer

CAPS

SHIFT function is active (upper case).

NUM

The numeric pad on the right of the keyboard is active.

SCRL

The Windows Scroll function is active.

See also
Windows of the WinCC Explorer (Page41)
Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer (Page39)
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer (Page36)

1.4.6

Windows of the WinCC Explorer

Introduction
In the WinCC Explorer, you work in the navigation window and in the data window.
In these windows, you can open the context-sensitive help for each element with the right
mouse button. If a project is active in Runtime, a tooltip is available for elements of the tag
management in the data window.

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Menu bar

Toolbar

Navigation window

Tooltip

Data Window

Status bar

Navigation window
The navigation window contains the list of editors and functions in the WinCC Explorer. You
can open an element in the navigation window by double-clicking it or using the pop-up menu.
You open the pop-up menu with the right mouse button. The Open command is displayed.
Additional commands for selection are displayed depending on the element.
For the editors Graphics Designer and ReportDesigner > Layouts you can show the
Information column of the data window using the Display Column Information option. The entry
in this column shows how the corresponding object was created.

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Method of Creating the Object

Entry in the Information column

Object has been created using WinCC Explorer.

<No entry>

Object has been created using WinCC Explorer

and then imported to SIMATIC Manager using the
Import WinCC Objects function.

Created by SIMATIC Manager

Object has been created using SIMATIC Manager. Created by SIMATIC Manager

If you click the plus character in front of the Tag Management or Structure Tag entries, you
expand the folder tree. In these folders, you can navigate, create, or move objects.
The Graphics Designer and Global Script editors also have subdirectories. If you click one of
these editors, WinCC displays these directories. The Report Designer contains the two folders
Layouts and Print Job. Global Script contains the two folders Actions and Standard Functions.
For more detailed information on the editors, refer to the relevant sections of the WinCC
Information System.

Data Window
If you click an Editor or a folder in the navigation window, the data window displays the elements
belonging to the editor or folder. The information displayed varies from editor to editor.
Double-click an element in the data window to open it. Depending on the element, WinCC
performs one of the following actions:
Opens an object in the appropriate editor.
Opens the Properties dialog of an object.
Displays the next level of a folder path.
Right-click an element to call up the pop-up menu where you can select the Properties dialog
of the element. With some editors, other commands are displayed that you can select.
You can rename the elements in the data window with the <F2> key or by clicking the selected
name.

Tooltips
If Runtime is activated, WinCC displays information on tags and connections in the form of a
tooltip. For more detailed information, refer to the WinCC Information System under Working
with Tags.

See also
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer (Page146)
Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer (Page40)
Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer (Page39)
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer (Page36)
Search Function (Page44)

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1.4.7

Search Function

Starting the Search Function

You can start a search in the navigation window and in the data window of the WinCC Explorer
by selecting the Find... command in the pop-up menu of the project, the computer, or the tag
management. The Find dialog opens.

Searchable elements
You can search for the following elements in a project:
Client computers
Server computers
Driver connections
Channel units
Connections
Tag groups
Tags

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You can restrict the search to individual element types. Select the required element type on
the Additional Options tab in the Type list box. In the Parameter Text field, you can specify an
individual parameter as an additional search criterion.

Searching by Name
On the Name tab, you can enter the name of the required element in the Find What list box.
If you have made several searches, you can display the list of terms you have searched for in
the Find What list box.
The entries you make for searches are not case-sensitive.

Wildcard
The "*" character can be used as a wildcard. This replaces any number of characters at the
beginning or end of the name.
If you enter "var*", all elements whose names start with "var", are displayed, e.g.
"Variable_2" tag,
"variablegroup_tank" tag group,
a computer with the name "VAR0516".
In the same way, you could enter "*tank" to search for all elements whose name ends with
"tank".

Searching by Date
In the Date of Change tab, you can search for elements created or modified during a specific
period.

Starting and Stopping a Search

Once you have specified all options for the search, start the search with the Start button. Click
the Stop button if you want to stop the search.
If you double-click an object that has been found, you change to the path in which this object
is located in the WinCC Explorer.
To delete all search information you have entered, click the New Search button. You can then
formulate a new search.
To close the Find dialog, click the

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See also
Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer (Page146)
Windows of the WinCC Explorer (Page41)
Status Bar and Title Bar of WinCC Explorer (Page40)
Toolbar of the WinCC Explorer (Page39)
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer (Page36)

1.5

Project Types

1.5.1

Project Types

Introduction
There are three types of project available in WinCC:
Single-user project
Multi-user project
Client project

See also
Changing Project Type (Page49)
Client Project (Page48)
Multi-User Project (Page47)
Single-User Project (Page46)

1.5.2

Single-User Project

Introduction
If you only want to work with one computer in a WinCC project, create a single-user project.
The WinCC project runs on one computer that functions as the server for processing the data
and as an operator input station. Other computers cannot access the project.

Principle
The computer on which you create the single-user project is configured as a server.
The computer is connected to the programmable controller via the process communication.

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Redundancy
You can also create a single-user project as a redundant system. In this case, you configure
a single-user project with a second redundant server.

Archive Server
You can also create an archive server for a single-user project. In this case, you configure a
single-user project and a second server on which the data of the single-user project is archived.

See also
Changing Project Type (Page49)
Multi-User Project (Page47)

1.5.3

Multi-User Project

Introduction
If you only want to work with several computers in a WinCC project, create a multi-user project.
For a multi-user system, there are two basic options:
Multi-user system with one or more servers:
Several servers with one or more clients. One client accesses several servers. The Runtime
data is distributed on different servers. The configuration data is on the servers and on the
clients.
Multi-user system with only one server:
One server with one or more clients. All data is on the server.

Principle
You create a multi-user project on the server. The server is connected to the programmable
controller via the process communication.
In the multi-user project, you configure the clients that access the server. In a second step,
you create the required client projects on the relevant computers.
If you want to work with several servers, duplicate the multi-user project on the second server.
Adapt the duplicated project accordingly. You can also create a second multi-user project on
the second server that is independent of the project on the first server.
A server can also access another server in the role of client. You can use this option, for
example, when you use an archive server or a file server.

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See also
Changing Project Type (Page49)
Single-User Project (Page46)
Client Project (Page48)

1.5.4

Client Project

Introduction
If you create a multi-user project, you must then create the clients that access the server. You
create a client program on the computer that will be used as a client.
For a WinCC client, there are two basic options:
Multi-user system with one or more servers:
The client accesses several servers. The Runtime data is distributed on different servers.
The configuration data on the multi-user projects is on the relevant servers. There may be
local configuration data in the client projects on the clients: Pictures, scripts and tags.
Multi-user system with only one server:
The client only attempts to access one specific server. All data is located on the server and
is referenced on the clients.
An archive server or a file server can also access another server in the role of client.
Note
The WinCC client replaces the clients and multi-clients that were used in WinCC up to version
V5.1. Depending on the configuration, a WinCC client takes over the role of a V5.1 client or
a V5.1 multi-client.

Principle
You create a multi-user project on the server. The server is connected to the programmable
controller via the process communication. In the multi-user project, you create the clients that
access the server.
If you configure a multi-user system with only one server, you do not create a separate client
project on the WinCC client.
If you configure a multi-user system with several servers, you must create a separate client
project on each client. This also applies when you only want to access one server but require
additional configuration data on the client.

Multi-User System with One or More Servers

To access more than one server, you create a client project on the client. You specify the
project properties on the WinCC client.

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On the server, you create packages using the Serverdata component. The packages contain
all important configuration data of the multi-user project. You load the packages on the WinCC
client.
You only need to create and compile the packages once manually. If the configuration data
on a server is modified, WinCC automatically generates the required packages. The packages
can be downloaded to the clients automatically or manually.

Central Server Configuration for a Multi-User System with One Server

If you want to configure a client that accesses only one server, specify all settings in the multiuser system on the server. When you edit the startup list of the client, you should only start
applications that are actually required on the client.
You do not create a separate project on the client. You start the server project using remote
access. You find more detailed information in the WinCC Information System under
Configurations > Multi-User Systems.

Web Client
You can configure a client that accesses the server over the intranet or over the Internet. If
you require this type of access, you create a Web client with the WinCC Web Navigator option.

See also
Changing Project Type (Page49)
Multi-User Project (Page47)

1.5.5

Changing Project Type

1.5.5.1

Changing Project Type

Introduction
If the configuration in your project changes, you can adapt the project type:
You want a single-user project to run on a server as a multi-user project.
You want a multi-user project to run as a single-user project without clients.

See also
How to Change a Multi-User Project to a Single-User Project (Page50)
How to Change a Single-User Project into a Multi-User Project (Page50)

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1.5.5.2

How to Change a Single-User Project into a Multi-User Project

Introduction
You can change a project you created as a single-user project to a multi-user project.
This can, for example, be useful when you want to create and test an entire project before
running it in a multi-user system.

Procedure
1. Select the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer. Open the Project
Properties dialog in the pop-up menu.
2. Go to the General tab and select the Multi-User Project project type in the Type list box.
Click OK to confirm.
3. The Change Project Type dialog is opened with the message: The project type has been
changed. Do you want to delete the startup list?
If you want to include the startup list in the modified project, select No.
If you want to create a new startup list, select Yes. After changing the project type, create
the startup list.
4. A dialog is opened with the message: The changes to the project type will take effect when
the project is closed and reopened on all computers on which the project is currently open.
Click OK to confirm.
5. Close the project in the WinCC Explorer and open it again. WinCC then accepts the
changed project type.
6. Create the required clients under the Computer component. Create the WinCC clients you
require and adapt the configuration.

See also
How to Change a Multi-User Project to a Single-User Project (Page50)
How to Set Up a Startup List (Page107)
Single-User Project (Page46)
Multi-User Project (Page47)

1.5.5.3

How to Change a Multi-User Project to a Single-User Project

Introduction
You can change a project you created as a multi-user project to a single-user project. The
clients you created are not included because only one computer is created in a single-user
project.
This can, for example, be useful when you want to use an existing configuration for a new
project.

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Procedure
1. Select the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer. Open the Project
Properties dialog in the pop-up menu.
2. Go to the General tab and select the Single-User Project project type in the Type list box.
Click OK to confirm.
3. The Project Properties dialog is opened with the message: A change from a multi-user to
a single-user or client project will delete all configured client computers from the computer
list. Click OK to perform this change or Cancel to keep the multi-user project. Click OK to
confirm.
4. The Change Project Type dialog is opened with the message: The project type has been
changed. Do you want to delete the startup list?
If you want to include the startup list in the modified project, select No.
If you want to create a new startup list, select Yes. After changing the project type, create
the startup list.
5. A dialog is opened with the message: The changes to the project type will take effect when
the project is closed and reopened on all computers on which the project is currently open.
Click OK to confirm.
6. Close the project in the WinCC Explorer and open it again. WinCC then accepts the
changed project type.
7. Adapt the computer properties and the configuration.

See also
How to Change a Single-User Project into a Multi-User Project (Page50)
How to Set Up a Startup List (Page107)
Single-User Project (Page46)
Multi-User Project (Page47)

1.6

Creating and Editing Projects

1.6.1

Preparation to Create a Project

Introduction
You don't yet need detailed planning to create a WinCC project. To create the WinCC project
efficiently, you should nevertheless give some initial thought to the structure of the project.
Depending on the size of the planned project and number of configuration engineers involved,
it may be useful to make certain settings and decide on certain rules.
This chapter contains information on some of the elements in a project that you should specify
before you start the configuration work:

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Project Type
Project Path
Naming conventions
Tag Groups
Picture Hierarchy
Faceplate types
Reusing project sections

Project Type
Before you start to plan your project, you should already know whether you require a singleuser system or multi-user system. If you are planning a project with WinCC clients or Web
clients, make sure you know the factors affecting performance.

Project Path
A WinCC project does not need to be created on the same partition on which you installed
WinCC. It is sometimes better to create a separate partition for a project. When you create a
partition, make sure you have adequate space for the anticipated amounts of data. If you
archive a lot of data, the WinCC project can take up several gigabytes of space.
A separate partition also ensures that the WinCC project and all data contained in it are not
lost if there is a system crash.
Note
WinCC projects should not be saved to compressed drives or directories.

Naming Conventions
Using naming conventions can make it easier to handle large projects. You can increase the
clarity in your project particularly if you use conventions for naming tags, pictures, or functions
in your project. Note the restrictions applying to names outlined in chapter Illegal Characters.

Project name
Changing the name of a project once it has been created involves a number of steps. It is
advisable to decide on a suitable name before creating the project.

Tags
You can give tags a prefix that identifies the tag type or the connection assigned to the tag.
You could, for example, give all text tags the prefix "txt_" and internal tags the prefix "int_".
If you develop a company standard, the prefixes should be the same for all projects.

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Pictures
You can specify prefixes for pictures, for example to identify plant pictures and system pictures.
If you create a large number of pictures, you can include continuous numbers in the picture
names.

Functions
With functions, it is useful to introduce a prefix for your company standard. This makes it clear
at a glance which functions are required for the standard.

Tag Groups
To structure tags, you can create tag groups. In WinCC, you cannot nest groups but can only
create one level with tag groups.

Picture Hierarchy
If you want to reduce the configuration time, you should plan the picture hierarchy in your
project before you start the project. It is advisable to work out an overview of the pictures you
need to create. Using a basic picture and the tag prefix, you can structure navigation within
your project.

Faceplate types
You can configure, save and reuse individual objects or groups of objects as faceplate types
in different pictures as faceplate instances. Thus, you can avoid always recompiling and
configuring frequently used picture elements.

Reusable Project Sections

You can take various project sections from existing WinCC projects. These include pictures,
tags, functions, and actions.

Standard project
If you do notwant to repeatedly take data from an existing WinCC project, you should create
a standard project. In this project, you can configure basic project sections to suit your needs.
When you create a new WinCC project, you can simply copy the standard project and then
work with the copy. This saves you time during configuration.

See also
File Structure of a Project (Page155)
Illegal Characters (Page152)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)

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1.6.2

WinCC Project with Basic Process Control

Introduction
WinCC projects can be created and managed in PCS 7 within the framework of Totally
Integrated Automation. The result is connections between the configuration of operator
stations and automation systems with the WinCC configuration. You run the WinCC
configuration in the SIMATIC Manager and in the WinCC Explorer.
The WinCC Explorer with the "Basic Process Control" option offers various editors, many of
which you use intensively for configuring the operator station (OS). Much data in the WinCC
project is already assigned by the configuration of the engineering station (ES). If necessary,
you can configure the configuration using the editors of the WinCC Explorer.

Requirements
The "Basic Process Control" option must be installed on all computers in a WinCC project
with multiple computers.

Overview of Basic Process Control in a WinCC Project

The following editors of Basic Process Control determine the appearance and behavior of the
operator station:
OS Project Editor
Time Synchronization
Lifebeat monitoring
Horn
Picture Tree Manager
Component List Editor

OS Project Editor - Configuration of the runtime system and message system

When an OS project is created in the PCS 7 ES, the OS Project Editor is called automatically
and initialized with default settings with reference to the runtime system and the message
system. Only if you want a configuration other than the default configuration do you have to
start the OS Project Editor in the WinCC Explorer and configure your desired project settings.
If you create a new WinCC project with Basic Process Control, you must start the OS Project
Editor. The OS Project Editor must run before the User Administrator is opened, otherwise the
User Administrator will be initialized with the authorization levels of WinCC.
The OS Project Editor creates the picture construction in overview area, work area, and button
area as well as basic data in the WinCC server or client projects. The areas in the picture
hierarchy are displayed automatically in the overview area of Runtime. In Runtime, the Split
Screen Manager manages the display data, the picture compositions, and the picture changes
according to the picture hierarchy. The picture change is configured with the standard functions
of the Split Screen Manager.

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All necessary data for the message configuration and the message display is created by the
OS Project Editor. There is no need to configure a WinCC Alarm Control. You can change the
default settings for display of the message system on the operator station in the OS Project
Editor.

Time Synchronization - Time synchronization via LAN and Industrial Ethernet Bus
To ensure time synchronization for all operator stations, you have to configure the time
synchronization using the "Time Synchronization" editor for every operator station.

Lifebeat Monitoring - Lifebeat monitoring for all automation systems and operator stations
The lifebeat monitoring function monitors functionality of all automation systems and operator
stations and creates a process control message, if necessary. You configure the lifebeat
monitoring in WinCC using the "Lifebeat Monitoring" editor.

Horn - Acoustic and optical signal generator for certain messages

The "Horn" editor is used to control optical and acoustic signaling devices or the output from
audio files when messages come in.

Picture Tree Manager - Management of the system hierarchy with the respective pictures
The "Picture Tree Manager" is used to manage a hierarchy of systems, subsystems and
Graphics Designer pictures. Using the Picture Tree Manager, the hierarchy of the group
displays can also be recalculated or updated.

Component List Editor - Configuration of entry point pictures and areas for the measuring points
You can see all components that you have inserted in the ES configuration in the Component
List Editor. You can create new measuring points yourself using the Component List Editor.
You allocate components to the pictures and areas in the Component List Editor. This allows
the system operator to switch directly to this picture using the "Loop in Alarm" function in the
message list and the "Picture from measuring point" button.

1.6.3

How to Create a Project

Introduction
If you want to create a new project, you must first make several basic settings in WinCC. Based
on these settings, WinCC creates a project that you can edit immediately.

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Principle
Follow the steps outlined below when creating a project:
Define project type
Specify the project name and project folder
If required, enter the name of the configuration engineer, the project version, and a comment
Defining computer properties
Specify the settings for Runtime
You can specify the computer properties and the settings for Runtime immediately after
creating the project or during configuration. For more detailed information, refer to chapters
Defining Computer Properties and Settings for Runtime.

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Procedure
1. In the toolbar of the WinCC, click the
button.
The WinCC Explorer dialog is opened.

2. Select the required project type and confirm with OK.

The Create a New Project window is opened.

3. Enter the project name in the Project Name box. If you want the name of the project folder
to be different from the project name, enter the required folder name in the New Subfolder
box.
4. In the Drive list box under Project Path, select the drive on which you want to create the
project folder.

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5. In the Folder list box under Project Path, select the path in which you want to create the
project folder.
6. Confirm with Create.
WinCC creates a project with the required name and opens the project in the WinCC
Explorer.
7. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The Project Properties dialog is opened.

8. In the General tab, you go to the name of the configuration engineer, a project version, and
a comment. Change the project type in the Type list box.
9. Click OK to close the dialog.

Alternative Procedure
You can create a new project in the following ways:
When you first start WinCC
In the menu bar of the WinCC Explorer in the File menu with the New command
With the shortcut key <CTRL+N>

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Activating Runtime on ES
To activate Runtime for an integrated project on the ES, you can centrally release this option
for the project. In WinCC Explorer, select the Project Properties option in the shortcut menu
of the current project. In the Options tab, enable the checkbox "Allow activation on ES".
For additional information refer the Online help for integrating WinCC in the SIMATIC Manager.
Note
To test integrated WinCC projects, use the "Start OS Simulation" function. This ensures that
the running system operation is not jeopardized.
The activation of integrated WinCC projects on the ES is not suited for this.

See also
Settings for Runtime (Page105)
Project Types (Page46)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
How to Specify the Computer Properties (Page59)
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager (Page1861)
Starting a Simulation in STEP 7 (Page1898)

1.6.4

How to Specify the Computer Properties

Introduction
When you create a project, you must adapt the properties of the computer on which the project
will be activated.
In a multi-user system, you must adapt the properties individually for each computer you create.

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Procedure
1. Click the Computer component in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
WinCC displays the list of computers in the data window.
2. Select the computer and then click the Properties command in the shortcut menu.
The Computer Properties dialog is opened.

3. Check whether the correct computer is entered in the Computer Name input box. You will
find the name of the computer in the Windows Control Panel under "System" on the
"Computer Name" tab.

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4. When you insert a multi-location project, the Computer type area shows whether the
computer is projected as a server or a client.
If you have already inserted other computers in the project, then the same are displayed
in the Client Name or Server Name area. The labeling of the box depends on whether you
are displaying the computer properties of a server or of a client.
5. Click OK to close the dialog.
Note
If the field Computer Name does not contain the correct computer name, Graphics
Designer opens a picture in the English configuration language, regardless of the
language settings. You may reset the desired language in Graphics Designer.

Changing computer name

You can change the computer name in a project. Before WinCC accepts the modified computer
name, you must close and reopen the project.

See also
How to Create a Project (Page55)
Effect of External Applications at Runtime (Page111)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
Project Types (Page46)

1.6.5

How to support multiple picture windows

Introduction
WinCC supports independent picture windows. Independent picture windows can be can be
used and positioned absolutely without being connected to the respective process picture.
With the respective hardware and the support of the operating system, you can control more
monitors to handle processes with greater scope and differentiation.
For example, you can visualize the process on monitors 1 to 3 and use monitor 4 to display
another view of the process with an Excel list.
The main window, in which you have configured the individual picture window, is no longer
required. You can hide it to increase the impact of more independent runtime windows.

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Procedure
1. Configure more picture windows with the desired process pictures in the start picture.
2. Open the properties for each picture window with a double click.
The "Object Properties" dialog is opened.

3. Set the attribute "Independent window" to "Yes".

4. Define the display for the configured picture window with window mode:
Standard: configured size in the configured position
Center: configured size in the central position
Maximize: display adapted to the size of the monitor
5. If you want to use more monitors:
Select the desired monitor for the picture window with the "Monitor number" attribute.

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6. If you want to hide the main window:
Select "Properties" in the WinCC Explorer of the pop-up menu of the computer, select the
respective computer and click on "Properties".
The "Computer Properties" dialog opens.

7. Activate check box "Hide main window" on the "Graphics Runtime" tab under "Independent
picture window".

Results
In runtime, the selected process pictures appear in several picture windows that are to be
controlled independent of one another.

See also
How to insert a picture window (Page516)

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1.6.6

Setting Time in WinCC

1.6.6.1

Setting Time in WinCC

Introduction
In WinCC Runtime, you can display data with the date/time information in the local valid time
or in coordinated universal time. It is normally practical to display the local time of your
workstation location. If you wish to display a time zone-independent time, use coordinated
universal time.
When you create a new project, WinCC uses the local time zone as the default. Internally,
WinCC works with the coordinated universal time as a time base and converts to the selected
time zone for the displayed time.
You set the time base for the entire project on one computer. In a multi-user system, you can
set the time base individually on each computer.
Additionally, you may configure if the date and time format can be configured at the individual
components or if it should be forced centrally by the WinCC project at all components in ISO
8601 format.
Note
Changing the time zone can have effects on date changes.

Multi-User System with Three Servers

The local time zone is displayed in the stations in Los Angeles, New York, and Tokyo.

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Data is collected from the stations in the center in Berlin. With the default setting, the operator
sees all data in the local Berlin time. To be able to compare the data more easily in discussions
with the stations, bus operators change over to UTC.
Note
The use of UTC is always advisable when you want to display or edit time-dependent data
from different time zones on one computer. If, for example, you want to display messages
from different time zones on one client, UTC should be selected in the Alarm Control of this
client so that the messages are sorted in the correct chronological order and appear correctly
in the single-line message window.

Possible Settings
For Runtime displays, the following settings are available:
Selection

Description

Local time zone (LOC)

During Runtime, time information is displayed in the local time zone of

the client or server.
For this display, UTC is converted to the local time zone. 1)
The local time zone is the default when you create a new project. The
individual objects use the default setting Apply Project Settings.

Coordinated Universal Time

(UTC)

During Runtime, coordinated universal time is displayed. UTC stands

for Universal Time Coordinated.
UTC is not dependent on time zones and is used internationally. This
time corresponds to the Greenwich Mean Time (Central European Time
minus an hour). In UTC, there is no daylight saving time.

Server's time zone

In Runtime, the local time zone of the server is displayed. In single-user

systems, this time corresponds to the time of the local time zone. During
display of the local time zone in ISO 8601 format, no deviations to UTC
time are shown.
Note:
We recommend using this setting only in projects migrated from WinCC
V5.x.

Apply Project Settings 2)

This option is available only for layouts and controls.

The object adopts the time zone selected in the project settings.

1)

You set the local time zone in the Control Panel of your computer under "Date/Time".

We recommend applying the "Apply Project Settings" setting to all objects and only changing it in
certain cases. This setting facilitates the project-wide conversion of the time zone.
2)

PLC clock setting

You can adapt the communication with the PLC to the WinCC V5 standard. You use this setting
if your project was originally created and operated with a WinCC version V5.x. V5-compatible
communication allows use of projects that you migrated to WinCC V6 but the time setting of
the programmable controller remains WinCC V5.

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Central Date and Time Formatting in ISO 8601 format

In the computer properties of the WinCC project, you may configure if the date and time format
should be configured at the individual components or if it should be forced centrally by the
WinCC project at all components in ISO 8601 format.
The following conditions apply to ISO 8601 format.
The date is always displayed in YYYY-MM-DD format.
The time is shown in 24-hour format.
UTC times are identified with suffix Z, e.g. 17:01:03.099Z.
The time of the local time zone is displayed as local time plus the offset to UTC, e.g.
17:01:03.099+01:30.
The display of time is specified by the time format hh:mm:ss. Only the additional display of
milliseconds is optional for the components. The time display is then in the format
hh:mm:ss.msc, e.g. 17:01:03.099.
Note
If the central display of date and time in ISO 8601 format is forced, this takes effect on
configurable time formats and time display throughout the project, e.g. in Controls, Reports
or in Alarm Logging on system message blocks Time and Date.

See also
Project Types (Page46)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
How to Set the Time Base for Communication (Page71)
How to Set the Time Base for Runtime Documentation (Page69)
How to Set the Time Base for Controls (Page67)
How to Set the Time Base in the Project (Page66)
Displaying Regional Date and Time (Page1793)

1.6.6.2

How to Set the Time Base in the Project

Introduction
The time basis applicable as default setting for the entire project is entered in the Computer
Properties dialog. This setting applies to all objects displayed on this computer in Runtime.
The exceptions to this are objects for which you have set a separate time base.
You may also use this dialog to set whether or not central date and time formatting according
to ISO 8601 should be forced in all components.

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Note
You can also change the time base setting in Runtime. To update the display in Runtime,
you must reselect the corresponding picture or report.
If the central display of date and time in ISO 8601 format is forced, this takes effect on
configurable time formats and time display throughout the project, e.g. in ActiveX Controls,
Reports or in Alarm Logging on system message blocks Time and Date.

Procedure
1. Click the Computer component in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
WinCC displays the list of computers in the data window.
2. Select the computer and then click the Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The Computer Properties dialog is opened.
3. Click the Parameters tab.
4. Select required time base in the Time Basis for Time Display in Runtime list box.
5. In the Central Date and Time Formatting area, choose if the format for date and time may
be configured at individual components, such as Alarm Control, or if the format in
accordance with ISO 8601 should be forced at all components.
6. Click OK to close the dialog.

See also
How to Set the Time Base for Runtime Documentation (Page69)
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
How to Set the Time Base for Communication (Page71)
How to Set the Time Base for Controls (Page67)
Setting Time in WinCC (Page64)

1.6.6.3

How to Set the Time Base for Controls

Introduction
For some controls, you can assess the time base individually.
In the default setting, the control takes the time base from the project properties. The Apply
Project Settings setting makes sure that you always see the same time zone in your controls
as in the rest of the project. With this setting, you can change the time base for all controls in
one action in the computer properties.
If you change the time base of a control, the modified setting is retained. You can no longer
change the time base of the controls in one action in the computer properties. To adapt to
control to the display in run-time again, you must modify the properties manually or change
the Apply Project Settings setting.

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Controls
You can adapt the time base individually for the following controls:
WinCC Online Table Control
WinCC Online Trend Control
WinCC Function Trend Control
WinCC Alarm Control
WinCC User Archive Table Control

Time Base for Controls

The following settings are available for the time base:
Apply Project Settings (default)
Server's time zone
Local time zone
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)
Note
You can also change the time base setting in Runtime.

Procedure
1. Open the Properties dialog of the control.
2. Select the General tab or the Time Axis tab for the Online Trend Control.
3. Select the required time base in the selection window under Time Base.
4. Click OK to close the dialog.

Time Format in Controls

If the central date and time format in ISO 8601 format is forced in the Computer Properties
dialog, this also has an effect on the configurable time formats and time displays in the controls.

WinCC User Archive Table Control

For the User Archives Table Control, sets the time base for the LastAccess field in the General
tab. The time of the last access is displayed in the Last Access column.

WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control

The Digital/Analog Clock Control always displays the local computer time. The displayed time
is not influenced by the time base of the project.

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See also
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
How to Set the Time Base for Communication (Page71)
How to Set the Time Base for Runtime Documentation (Page69)
How to Set the Time Base in the Project (Page66)
Setting Time in WinCC (Page64)

1.6.6.4

How to Set the Time Base for Runtime Documentation

Introduction
In the log system of WinCC, you have dynamic objects available which allow you to output
Runtime data into a report. You can set the time base of the dynamic objects individually in
the properties.
In the default setting, WinCC takes the time base from the project properties. The Apply Project
Settings setting makes sure that you always see the same time zone in your reports as in the
rest of the project. With this setting, you can change the time base for all dynamic objects in
one action in the computer properties.
If you change the time base of a dynamic object, the modified setting is retained. You can no
longer change the time base of the object in one action in the computer properties. To adapt
the reports to the display in Runtime again, you must modify the settings in the object properties
manually or change the Apply Project Settings.

Reports
You can change the time base of the following objects:
Archive reports (Alarm Logging Runtime)
Message reports (Alarm Logging Runtime)
User archive tables (User Archive Runtime)
Tag tables (Tag Logging Runtime)
Trends (Tag Logging Runtime)
Message sequence report tables (in the Line Layout Editor)
Message sequence report tables (in the Page Layout Editor)

Time Base for Line Layouts and Page Layouts

An output is made in the Runtime documentation when an event, for example a message, has
occurred. If you change the time base output, WinCC converts the time stamps of the
messages into the new time base.
You can select the following settings as the time base:

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Apply Project Settings (default)
Server's time zone
Local time zone
Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)
Note
You can also change the time base setting in Runtime.
Exception: You cannot change the time base of message sequence reports during

Procedure for Page Layouts

1. Open the required page layout in the page layout editor.
2. Double-click the dynamic object you want to edit.
The "Object Properties" dialog is opened.
3. On the tab Connect, select the object in the navigation window.
4. In the table in the right window, select the Time Base entry and click the Edit
button.
The Time Base Entry dialog is displayed.
5. Select the required time base and confirm with OK.

Procedure for Line Layouts

1. Open the desired line layout in the line layout editor.
2. Click in the Table area on the Time Base... button.
The Time Base Entry dialog is displayed.
3. Select the required time base and confirm with OK.

Selection for Layouts

In the filter criteria for alarm output, WinCC always uses the time base of the corresponding
dynamic object.

Start Time and Selected Time Range for Print Jobs

The start time and the selected time range of the data to be printed is always shown in local
computer time. The start time and the selected time range are not influenced by the time base
of the project nor by the time base of a dynamic object.

Time Format in Reports

If the central date and time format in ISO 8601 format is forced in the Computer Properties
dialog, this also has an effect on time displays in the reports.

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See also
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
How to Set the Time Base for Communication (Page71)
How to Set the Time Base for Controls (Page67)
How to Set the Time Base in the Project (Page66)
Setting Time in WinCC (Page64)

1.6.6.5

How to Set the Time Base for Communication

Introduction
Apart from the time base in Runtime, you can also set the time base for communication with
the programmable controller. You can do this by selecting the PLC Clock Setting:
Project Version

WinCC V5 Compatibility Mode

Time Base for Communication

V5.x project migrated to V6.0

Activated

Local time zone standard time

Created in V6.x and V7.x

not activated 1)

UTC

1)

In projects created in WinCC V7.0, WinCC uses UTC as the default setting.

You use V5-compatible communication if your project was originally created and operated with
a WinCC version V5.x. V5-compatible communication allows use of projects that you migrated
to WinCC V6 but the time setting of the programmable controller remains WinCC V5.
You can set the time base for displaying Runtime regardless of the time base for
communication.

Procedure
1. Click the Computer component in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
WinCC displays the list of computers in the data window.
2. Select the computer and then click the Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The Computer Properties dialog is opened.
3. Click the Parameters tab.
4. Under PLC clock setting, activate the PLC is set to the local winter time all year (WinCC
V5 compatibility mode) check box.
5. Click OK to close the dialog.

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See also
How to Set the Time Base in the Project (Page66)
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
How to Set the Time Base for Runtime Documentation (Page69)
How to Set the Time Base for Controls (Page67)
Setting Time in WinCC (Page64)

1.6.7

Online Configuration

Introduction
You can edit a project in a single-user system or a multi-user system during Runtime.
Remember, however, that some configuration tasks are not possible.
WinCC also provides the Load Online Changes function. With the Load Online Changes
function, you can edit a project on one computer while it is running on another computer in
Runtime. When configuring with Load Online Changes, there are other restrictions than those
that apply to online configuration.
Note
In time-critical projects, remember that online configuration can affect the response of your
project over time.

Limitations
For more detailed information on the possibilities for online data editing, refer to the description
of the relevant editor in the WinCC Information System.
You can edit the following elements while the project is activated in Runtime:

72

Element

Create

Delete

Edit

Remarks

Project name /
Project properties

---

---

No

---

Computer

Yes

No

No

---

Computer properties

---

---

Yes

Edit:
Modifications only become effective in
Runtime after the project has been
deactivated and Runtime restarted.

Time base
(computer properties)

---

---

Yes

Edit:
Depending on the configuration, a
modification in a picture is updated in
Runtime after the picture has been
reselected.

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Element

Create

Delete

Edit

Remarks

User cycle
(project properties)

---

---

No

---

Tags
(tag management)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete/Edit:
Only possible with external tags when
the channel used supports the function.
This currently applies only to the S7
channel

Tag groups
(tag management)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete:
Only valid when the contained tags can
be deleted.

Structure types

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete:
Only possible if the structure type does
not contain structure tags.
Edit:
Only possible as long as no structure
tag has been set up under the structure
type.

Structure tags
(structure types)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete:
Only valid when the associated
structure tag elements can be deleted.

Connections
(tag management)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Changes to a connection can lead to

loss of data.
Delete/Edit:
Currently only valid for the S7 channel.

Channels
(tag management)

No

No

No

---

Channel units
(tag management)

No

No

No

---

Text entries
(Text Library)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Pictures
(PDL files,
Graphics Designer)

Yes

Yes

Yes

A picture is updated at runtime only

after reselection.

Library, color
palette
(Graphics Designer)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Archives, archive
tags
(Tag Logging, User
Archives)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Edit:
Archiving cycle cannot be modified

Reports, layouts
(Report Designer)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Create/Delete/Edit:
Only valid for the Runtime
documentation.

Scripts
(Global Script)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Access rights
(User Administrator)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Other files

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

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Element

Create

Delete

Edit

Remarks

Packages
(server data)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Messages
(Alarm Logging)

---

---

---

Refer to the Online Configuration with

Messages table below.

Configuring Messages Online

Element

Attribute

Create Delete

Edit

Remarks

Single messages

Yes

Yes

Yes

Edit:
Valid for most attributes.
Exceptions are listed
individually:

---

---

No

---

Number
Group

Class

---

---

Yes

If the acknowledgement
requirement is changed,
the message is
deleted.
If the message category is
changed but not the
acknowledgement
requirement, the message
is updated immediately.

Type

---

---

Yes

The message is updated

immediately.

Triggered on falling
edge

---

---

Yes

If you change the attribute,

the message is deleted.

---

---

Yes

Updated in Runtime only

when the status of the
message changes.

Message tag
Message bit
Norm DLL

Controls the central

signaling device
Will be archived
Priority

Info text

---

---

Yes

The message is updated

immediately.

User text block

---

---

Yes

Updated in Runtime only

when the status of the
message changes.

Group messages

No

No

No

---

User-defined
group message

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Limit value
monitoring

Yes

Yes

Yes

Edit:
If the Message attribute is
modified, the message is
deleted.

Process value block

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Element

Attribute

Create Delete

Edit

Remarks

System blocks

Yes

Yes

Yes

Create/Delete/Edit:
A picture is only updated
in Runtime when the
corresponding picture is
reselected.
Create/Delete:
Reconfiguration in OCX
necessary.

User text blocks

Yes

Yes

Yes

Create/Delete/Edit:
A picture is only updated
in Runtime when the
corresponding picture is
reselected.
Create/Delete:
Reconfiguration in OCX
necessary.

Process value
blocks

Yes

Yes

Yes

Create/Delete/Edit:
A picture is only updated
in Runtime when the
corresponding picture is
reselected.
Create/Delete:
Reconfiguration in OCX
necessary.

Message classes

Yes

No

Yes

Edit:
Valid for most attributes.
Exceptions are listed
individually:

---

---

Yes

Updated in Runtime only

when the status of the
message changes or
when you reselect the
picture.

Class names
Status text

Acknowledgment
theory

---

---

Yes

If you modify a message

so that acknowledgment is
no longer mandatory, the
message is deleted.

Message types

Yes

No

Yes

---

Raw data tags

Yes

Yes

Yes

Edit/Delete:
The message is deleted.

Tags

---

Yes

Yes

Edit/Delete:
The message is deleted.

See also
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Loading Online Changes (Page76)

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1.6.8

Loading Online Changes

1.6.8.1

Loading Online Changes

Introduction
With the Load Online Changes function, you can edit a project on one computer while it is
running on another computer in Runtime. Load online changes work under multi-user systems
and distributed systems under the same conditions as the use in multi-user systems.
The computer on which you configure will be referred to as the configuring station in the
following description. The computer on which Runtime is activated will be referred to as the
Operator Station.
If you want to use the changes on the operator station, start a download of the changed data.
The project is updated in Runtime.
You can test the modified project on the configuring station before you user modifications in
Runtime. You can update the project at any time.
Working with online downloads of changes is possible only when you maintain a consistent
project.
Note
In time-critical projects, remember that downloading changes online can affect the response
of your project over time.

Application Scenarios
During various phases, for example commissioning, operation, or maintenance, you will
normally find it necessary to make changes to an existing project. These changes can then
be adopted in the activated project; in other words, online.
You can download changes online in the following situations:

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Continuous automation tasks:
All modifications are made online from a central configuration station. As a result, you do
not need to make a configuration changes directly on site. It is also possible to add, modify,
and delete Runtime objects, for example tags, alarms, and archives without deactivating
WinCC.
Testing modifications in a protected environment:
The configuring station can be used to run intended modifications offline before they are
loaded in the activated project. The configuration planner can, therefore, test the
modifications in a protected environment before adopting them in active operation. This
allows configuration errors to be detected before they can cause problems in the process
or stop the plant.
Simultaneous loading of modifications which influence each other:
Configuration changes often relate to settings which are linked to each other. Such
modifications should be downloaded consistently and take effect at the same time.
This case occurs, for example, when a calculated value of an archive representation is
added. In may be necessary to create new tags and add them to a new archive. Finally,
the archive will be displayed in a picture. In the situation, if the information is not adopted
as a unit, this will lead to error messages.
Note
If Load Online Changes is to be used in redundant systems, STEP7 or PCS7 is required.

Principle
A project runs on the operator station during Runtime. Load Online Changes is automatically
activated. The menus for Load Online Changes cannot be operated in WinCC Explorer.
You edit a copy of the project on a second computer, the configuration station. Activate the
load online changes function in the WinCC Explorer on the configuration station. From this
point onwards, WinCC records all changes made in the project. Online configurations on the
configuration station are not, however, recorded.
When you have completed your modifications in the project, start the online download of the
changes. This exports the modified data to the operator station. The project is updated in
Runtime.
I the case of multi-user systems, WinCC generates packages after each download. Depending
on the settings selected, the packages can be automatically imported by the clients.

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See also
Online Configuration (Page72)
How to Download Load Online Changes (Page87)
How to Reset Load Online Changes (Page91)
How to Activate Load Online Changes (Page85)
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Requirements for Loading Online Changes (Page78)
Run Diagnosis of Online Change Loading (Page83)

1.6.8.2

Requirements for Loading Online Changes

Introduction
Make sure that you use the function for downloading changes online only with consistent
projects:
Before activating the Load Online Changes function, the projects on the configuring station
and on the operator station must be synchronized to the same project state.
The project on the engineering station must be tested and run correctly when Load Online
Changes is started.
You can only configure changes that can be recorded by the Load Online Changes
function.
If the download changes online function cannot record a configuration, a warning is
displayed. If you configure the change despite this warning, the Load Online Changes
function is reset. The changes can no longer be transferred.
If you edit an inconsistent project, you take the risk that the activated project will no longer run
correctly following the download. You can then only correct errors in Runtime in the deactivated
status.
Note
If you edit a WinCC project which was created using the SIMATIC Manager, there will be no
menu item "Load Online Changes" in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC projects
created in WinCC and subsequently imported into SIMATIC Manager by using the function
"Import WinCC Object". This type of project is also called a TIA project.
If you copy a TIA project with WinCC Explorer and subsequently edit the copy, menu item
Load Online Changes in WinCC Explorer is displayed.

Synchronizing Project to the Same Status

Synchronize the project on the computers participating so they have the same data before
activating Load Online Changes. You can do this by copying the current version of your project
from the operator station to the configuring station using the Project Duplicator.
If the project is edited on the configuring station, observe the following:

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The project must not be modified on the operator station.
The project must not be edited either on the configuring station or on the operator station
from another computer.
The configuration on the operator station must also not be modified by scripts.
In the case of a client/server system, the Notify after Export check box must be deactivated
in the Implicit Update menu on the configuring station in WinCC Explorer/Serverdata.

Configuring with Load Online Changes Activated

Edit the project on the configuring station only when the Load Online Changes function is
activated. Only configure changes that can be recorded by the download changes online
function.

Keeping the Project Consistent

Test your edited project on the configuring station before starting Load Online Changes.
This ensures that fully functional data is transferred to the operator station and that no errors
occur in the activated project.

Configuring in multiple partial steps

You can configure the changes that are to be entered n the online change shop in multiple
partial steps. For this, exit WinCC after every configuration session if you have switched on
the online changes shop. During the next configuration session, the project will be started in
the same status and can be processed further. After completing the partial configurations,
download the modified project in one step to the operator station.

Quantity Structure
Using the Load Online Changes function, you should not configure and transfer more than 500
tags, archive tags, and messages. The Load Online Changes function is not intended or
suitable for transferring mass data.
New segments are created in the archive manager if you make changes to existing archive
variables. This can decrease performance of the load online changes feature. No additional
segments are created when adding or removing variables in the TagLogging Editor.
Configure major modifications in several steps. After configuration, transfer each partial
package to the operator station.
Note
Load Online Changes can also be switched off on the configuring station. However, Load
Online Changes should only be switched off when no configuration modifications need to be
carried out online and prefer to execute a complete download onto the OS. Do not select
Turn Off if Load Online Changes should be interrupted. The consistency of the project can
then no longer be guaranteed.

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See also
How to Activate Load Online Changes (Page85)
How to Download Load Online Changes (Page87)
How to Reset Load Online Changes (Page91)
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Run Diagnosis of Online Change Loading (Page83)

1.6.8.3

Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes

Introduction
When Load Online Changes is active, not all configurations can be executed which are possible
when Load Online Changes is deactivated.

Basic Limitations
Opened Files
In the case of Load Online Changes, no open files are transferred, e.g. screens which are
open in Graphics Designer at that moment. After the download, an entry is made in the
message window of the Progress Dialog dialog. Close all applications and editors except Load
Online Changes and start the transfer again.

Project in Runtime
The project must not be active in Runtime on the configuring station.

WinCC Configuration Tool

Do not work with the WinCC Configuration Tool if Load Online Changes has been activated.
Using the WinCC Configuration Tool, you can configure changes that cannot be transferred
with Load Online Changes. The tool is not monitored by Load Online Changes.
Project inconsistencies can result if you transfer data processed with the WinCC Configuration
Tool with Load Online Changes.

WinCC server
Observe the following procedure during download of Load Online Changes to a server:
The respective WinCC project should be open on all clients with an imported server package.
You can also perform the download if the corresponding project is not open on all clients. You
must then wait at least 10 minutes after confirmation of the last dialog of Load Online Changes
before opening the project on the client.

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Redundant Systems
You can only use Load Online Changes in redundant systems when certain requirements have
been met. If Load Online Changes should be used in redundant systems, SIMATIC Manager
is required, or STEP7 or PCS7.
You must always start the download of Load Online Changes via the master server. This will
also perform a download of Load Online Changes on the standby server. Starting the download
from the standby server is not possible.
Changes to user archive configuration data, such as deleted fields in the archive, cannot be
transferred with an online download of changes to a redundant server pair.

Files and Elements

Load Online Changes supports editing of the following elements:
Element

Create

Delete

Edit

Remarks

Project name, --Project properties

---

No

---

Computer

No

No

---

Yes

Computer properties ---

---

No

---

Time base
(computer
properties)

---

---

No

---

User cycle
(project properties)

---

---

No

---

Tags
(tag management)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete/Edit:
Only possible with external tags when
the channel used supports the
function. Currently only valid for the
S7 channel.

Tag groups
(tag management)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete:
Only valid when the contained tags
can be deleted.

Structure types

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete:
Only possible if the structure type
does not contain structure tags.
Edit:
Only possible as long as no structure
tag has been set up under the
structure type.

Structure tags
(structure types)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Delete:
Only possible if the associated
structure tag elements can be deleted.

Connections
(tag management)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Changes to a connection can lead to

loss of data.
Delete/Edit:
Currently only valid for the S7 channel.

Channels
(tag management)

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No

No

No

---

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Element

Create

Delete

Edit

Remarks

Channel units
(tag management)

No

No

No

---

Text entries
(Text Library)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Pictures
(PDL files, Graphics
Designer)

Yes

Yes

Yes

A picture is updated at runtime only

after reselection.

Library, color
--palette
(Graphics Designer)

---

No

---

Messages
(Alarm Logging)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Processing of message blocks and

group messages is not supported.
The processing of user-defined group
messages is supported.
Deletion of message classes is not
supported.

Archives, archive
tags
(Tag Logging, User
Archives)

Yes

Yes

Yes

Reports,
layouts
(Report Designer)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Scripts
(Global Script)

Yes

Yes

Yes

---

Access rights Yes

(User Administrator)

Yes

Yes

---

Other files

Yes

Yes

The files must be in the project

directory or one of the following
subdirectories: GraCS, Library,
ScriptLib, PRT, Textbib.

Yes

Support for WinCC Web Navigator

Load Online Changes supports the transfer of published pictures and scripts of WinCC Option
Web Navigator, if the Web Navigator Server is installed on configuration station and operator
station.

Support for WinCC/CAS

Load Online Changes also supports the transfer of configuration changes to the central archive
server.

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See also
Online Configuration (Page72)
How to Download Load Online Changes (Page87)
How to Reset Load Online Changes (Page91)
How to Activate Load Online Changes (Page85)
Loading Online Changes (Page76)
Requirements for Loading Online Changes (Page78)

1.6.8.4

Run Diagnosis of Online Change Loading

Introduction
After downloading changes online, you should check that all changes have been adopted
correctly in the project on the operator station. You can export the error messages that occurred
during download to a diagnosis file.
There are various reasons for a change not being adopted in the activated project.

Notes on Diagnostics and Configuration

Behavior

Procedure / Configuration

Changes to picture are not displayed

(PDL file)

Reselect the picture in Runtime

Changes in a script are not displayed

Save the script again in the Global Script editor and reselect
the picture in Runtime

Changes to a control are not displayed

Reconnect the control in the Graphics Designer

Correction required in the configuration If there is an error in the configuration, correct the error on
the configuring station with Load Online Changes activated.
Transfer the corrected project data to the operator station
again with the download changes online function.
Network failure during the download

If the network fails during the download, the download

changes online function can only update some of the
recorded data. The Runtime project is therefore inconsistent.
Start the download again. The operator station must remain
in Runtime. Load Online Changes is full executed once
again. Ignore the fault messages displayed.
No further configurations may be completed on the
configuring station as long as Load Online Changes is not
concluded.

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Export error messages to a diagnosis file

You can export the error messages that have occurred while loading online changes to a
diagnosis file.
1. When loading is complete, click "Export ....".

This will open the "Save As" dialog.

2. Select the desired directory and enter a meaningful file name.

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3. Click on the "Save" button. The file is written to the selected directory.

See also
How to Download Load Online Changes (Page87)
How to Reset Load Online Changes (Page91)
How to Activate Load Online Changes (Page85)
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Requirements for Loading Online Changes (Page78)

1.6.8.5

How to Activate Load Online Changes

Introduction
As soon as Load Online Changes has been activated on the configuring station, WinCC detects
all configured changes. If you want to use the changes on the operator station, start a download
of the changed data. The project is updated in Runtime.
Before activating the Load Online Changes, copy the project to the configuring station. Use
the Project Duplicator for this. This prevents inconsistency. The project can be duplicated from
the operator station while Runtime is active. When the copied project is opened on the
configuring station, Runtime is started automatically. If Runtime is terminated, Load Online
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Changes remains activated. Reset Load Online Changes first to ensure the changes are
assumed when the project is restarted.
CAUTION
Ensure that the project is consistent.
Ensure that configuration only takes place on the configuring station on which Load Online
Changes is active.
If you edit an inconsistent project, you take the risk that the activated project will no longer
run correctly following the download. You can then only correct errors in Runtime in the
deactivated status.

Procedure
1. Right-click Load Online Changes in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
2. When the project has been copied, select the Reset option in the pop-up menu before
starting with the changes.
3. Also select Turn On in the pop-up menu.
Load Online Changes is activated and immediately records all changes made in the project.
If a change is made that cannot be recorded by Load Online Changes, the following dialog is
displayed:

It is possible that the change is necessary and that the project would otherwise be inconsistent
and cause errors in Runtime. In this case, confirm with Yes. Reset the download changes
online function and continue to configure without it.
Note
If you edit a WinCC project which was created using the SIMATIC Manager, there will be no
menu item Load Online Changes in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC projects
created in WinCC and subsequently imported into SIMATIC Manager by using the function
Import WinCC Object. This type of project is also called a TIA project.
If you copy a TIA project with WinCC Explorer and subsequently edit the copy, menu item
Load Online Changes in WinCC Explorer is displayed.

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See also
How to Copy a Project (Page139)
How to Download Load Online Changes (Page87)
How to Reset Load Online Changes (Page91)
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Loading Online Changes (Page76)
Requirements for Loading Online Changes (Page78)

1.6.8.6

How to Download Load Online Changes

Introduction
If you want to adopt the changes recorded by the download online changes function in an
activated project, start a download. This exports the modified data from the configuring station
to the operator station. The project is updated in Runtime.
The changes can be transferred to several operator stations. A condition for this is that the
same project status prevails on all target systems.
Before downloading, make sure that the modified project is fault-free. Test the changes on the
configuring station in Runtime.
If you are editing a multi-user project, WinCC generates the required packages on the operator
station after each download. The automatic package update is used to by the clients to import
the changes as packages and to load them. To do this, select the "Server data" item in WinCC
Explorer on the OS client, and activate the Notify After Export check box in the Implicit Update
menu.
If the package is changed by the server in a redundant multi-user system, so that the clients
are automatically updated, reregister the preferred server on the clients, or reassign the
preferred server by reloading of the clients.

Requirements
The project was copied from the operator station with the Project Duplicator before
activating the Load Online Changes function.
The project can only be edited with the Load Online Changes function active at all times.
The project on the configuring station is consistent and has been tested in Runtime.
The unchanged project is activated in Runtime on the operator station.
The operator station should perform as few operations as possible while the download of
Load Online Changes takes place. In time-critical projects, remember that Load Online
Changes can affect the response of your project over time.
Use the configuring station to check that the files to be transferred are not open.
All WinCC editors must be closed on the configuring station.

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Procedure
1. Right-click Load Online Changes in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
2. Select the Start Download command in the pop-up menu.
The Remote Computer dialog is opened.

3. Click the

button to select the operator station on which you want to update the project.

4. To transfer the changes to several operator stations, deactivate the check box "Reset after
download" before the download. After downloading to the first operator station, the same
data are available for a further download.
5. Start the download with OK.
The Progress Dialog dialog is opened. The window contains a progress bar for the entire
download and a second progress bar for the current action.
6. If the Reset After Download check box is selected, a reset occurs after Load Online
Changes.
7. After the download, close the Progress Dialog dialog with OK.
Note
After Load Online Changes has been reset, the file with the recorded data is deleted. If
transfer of the changes should be made to an operator station, the entire project must be
copied from the configuring station. In this case, Runtime must be terminated on the operator
station and WinCC closed.
If you edit a WinCC project which was created using the SIMATIC Manager, there will be no
menu item "Load Online Changes" in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC projects
created in WinCC and subsequently imported into SIMATIC Manager by using the function
"Import WinCC Object". This type of project is also called a TIA project.
If you copy a TIA project with WinCC Explorer and subsequently edit the copy, menu item
Load Online Changes in WinCC Explorer is displayed.

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Canceling the Download

The downloading process can be stopped. This should only be done in exceptional
circumstances, e.g. when the procedure threatens to take too much time. Only part of the
project changes are updated, according to the following sequence:
1. Connections
2. Tag groups, tags, structures
3. Texts
4. Alarms
5. Archives, archive tags
6. User Administrator
7. Images
8. Scripts
9. Reports
If only a part of the download is completed, the project on the operator station is not fully
functional:
A tag, for example, has been deleted. The tag management has been updated but the
screens were not transferred in which the tags are displayed.
A screen jump, for example has been configured but does not function. One screen was
transferred but not the other.
Changes already transferred are not reset on the operator station.
Following a cancellation, the Load Online Changes download can be restarted. The download
is then completed fully.
Pay attention to the following during the download:
The operator station remains in Runtime.
Ignore the fault messages displayed.
No further configurations may be completed on the configuring station as long as Load
Online Changes has not been concluded.

Monitoring the Download Process

You can configure a message or use an internal tag that indicate the start and finish of the
download on the operator station.

Monitoring with control center options

If you have configured the WinCC system messages in the message system, downloading
changes online triggers the following OS process control messages:
Load online changes

Message no.

Message text

Download started

1012242

Delta loading was started

Download ended

1012243

Delta loading ended

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The messages can only be displayed when the process control options of WinCC are installed.

Monitoring via the internal tags "@DeltaLoaded", "@SFCDeltaLoaded" and "@SFCDeltaLoaded"

The system tags "@DeltaLoaded", "@SFCDeltaLoaded" and "@DeltaCompiled" indicate the
download status as follows:
@DeltaLoaded
Value

is set

at the start of the download on the configuration station and on the operator station

at the start of the online change loading on the operator station, directly before sending the
process control message "1012242"

when canceling the online change load on the operator station

at the finish of the online change loading on the operator station, directly before sending the
process control message "1012243"

On the configuration station, "@DeltaLoaded" is always "0". On the operator station, the value
depends on the delta loading process. The value is not changed during the activation or
deactivation.
@SFCDeltaLoaded
Value

is set

at the start of the transfer of the SFC database on the operator station in the course of the
online change loading

at the finish of the transfer of the SFC database on the operator station in the course of the
online change loading

On the configuration station, "@SFCDeltaLoaded" is not set. On the operator station,

"@SFCDeltaLoaded" is used to synchronize the SFC clients. The SFC clients must end the
access to the SFC DB prior to the download. The value is not changed during the activation
or deactivation.
@DeltaCompiled
Value

is set

Initial value

OS compiling of change is running

OS compiling of change has been completed

You can monitor the OS compiling of changes using "@DeltaCompiled" system tag.

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See also
Process Control Runtime: Message system
"Melde-Projektierung" tab
How to Activate Load Online Changes (Page85)
How to Reset Load Online Changes (Page91)
Requirements for Loading Online Changes (Page78)
Loading Online Changes (Page76)
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Run Diagnosis of Online Change Loading (Page83)
Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager (Page1857)

1.6.8.7

How to Reset Load Online Changes

Introduction
When you deactivate the Load Online Changes function, all changes recorded by the function
are deleted. If you want to record your changes again with the Load Online Changes function,
you must Runtime it again.
By resetting the download changes online function, you avoid an unwanted configuration being
transferred to an operator station. You can undo changes you have made and re-edit your
project with the Load Online Changes function activated.

Procedure
1. Right-click Load Online Changes in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
2. Select the Reset command in the pop-up menu.
The following dialog is displayed:

3. Click on OK to confirm.
The recorded changes are deleted in the download changes online function and can no
longer be downloaded.

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Note
If you edit a WinCC project which was created using the SIMATIC Manager, there will be no
menu item Load Online Changes in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC projects
created in WinCC and subsequently imported into SIMATIC Manager by using the function
Import WinCC Object. This type of project is also called a TIA project.
If you copy a TIA project with WinCC Explorer and subsequently edit the copy, menu item
Load Online Changes in WinCC Explorer is displayed.

See also
How to Download Load Online Changes (Page87)
How to Activate Load Online Changes (Page85)
Use and Limitations of Load Online Changes (Page80)
Loading Online Changes (Page76)
Requirements for Loading Online Changes (Page78)

1.7

Determining the Global Design

1.7.1

Global Design of the Objects

Introduction
In WinCC, you have numerous options for changing the way your projects appear in Runtime.
To do this, you choose from a series of predetermined and self-created designs. The design
contains colors, patterns and other optical effects.
You determine the global design in the project properties.

Global Designs
WinCC provides the following designs for the projects:
WinCC Classic
The standard design as you know it from WinCC V6.2. This new design does not support
all new program elements as of WinCC V7.0.
WinCC Simple
Simple design in light blue color tones.

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WinCC Glass
Design in dark blue color tones with a glass-like shimmer effect.
WinCC 3D
Design in gray to black color tones with relief-like 3D design of the objects.
In addition to the provided designs, you can create, edit, rename and delete your own designs.

Design Features
The design contains determinations on the following properties of the objects:
For all objects:
Shadow
Hover (changes the view temporarily, as long as the mouse pointer is over the object)
Different for the different groups of object types:
Style
Color scheme
The design features of the global design cannot be used in full for all object types.

Settings in the Object Properties

If nothing else is set in the object properties, the settings of the selected global design apply
to all graphical objects in the project.
Note
As soon as an attribute is determined by a global design, it remains static and can no longer
be made dynamic. Even a dynamization that has already been performed remains without
effect.
You can deactivate the global shadow and the global color scheme for an object in the object
properties.
For the Windows objects "Button", "Round Button and "Slider Object", you can accept the
global design or activate the user-defined settings. Alternatively, you can also accept the
display style of the Windows operating system for the button and the slider object.

Settings in the Computer Properties

The global design requires the recommended hardware equipment. You can improve the
computer's reaction behavior by switching off certain elements of the global design in the
WinCC computer properties.

See also
How to make computer-specific settings for runtime (Page128)

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1.7.2

The Elements of the Global Design

Introduction
The global design determines the uniform optical design of the process pictures. If you are
designing your own design, you have different options in the individual object groups.

Design Features of a Global Design

A global design has the following design features for the individual object types:
Object group

Objects

Style

Color scheme

Simple

Geometric object
(standard objects)

Simple

Fill color (Fill Pattern Color)

background color
fill pattern

Tubes
(tube objects)

Windows

Background color
(line color)

Background
(process picture)

Simple

Fill color (Fill Pattern Color)

background color
fill pattern

Smart

Windows

94

Text objects
Simple
(I/O field, combo box, list box, multi- Windows
line text)
Style 1

Text color (font color)

Fill color (fill pattern color)
Background color
Fill pattern

Bar graph
(3D bar)

Simple

Text color (font color)

Fill color (fill pattern color)
Background color
Fill pattern

Button

Simple
Text color (font color)
Progression Background color
Rectangular
Aero glass

Round Button

Simple
3D style
Aero glass
Ball

Scroll bar
(Slider object)

Simple
Background Color
Progression
Rectangular
Aero glass

Check/radio box
(check box, radio box)

Simple

Text color (font color)

Background color

Text color (font color)

Fill color (fill pattern color)
Background color
Fill pattern

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Object group

Objects

Style

Controls

Display gauge / clock

Simple
Text color (font color)
Progression Fill color (fill pattern color)
3D style
Background color

Runtime controls

Simple
Windows

Text color (font color)

Fill color (fill pattern color)
Background color

Menus/toolbars

Windows
Progression

Text color (font color)

Background color

Toolbar

1.7.3

Color scheme

How to work with global object designs

Introduction
You can use global designs in WinCC. In addition to the provided designs, the designs that
you create on your own are also available.

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Procedure
1. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The "Project Properties" dialog opens.

2. On the "User Interface and Design" tab, click "Edit" next to "Active Design".
The "Global Design Properties" dialog opens.

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All existing designs are displayed in the upper bar. The preview shows how the objects will
appear for the selected objects.

Working with Designs

You can display the settings for the provided designs and edit your own designs. You also
have the following options:
Function

Import design

Integrates another design into WinCC

Export design

Saves a design as a file in XML format.

Add new design

Adds a new design to the design bar.

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Function
Delete current design

Deletes the selected self-created design from the design bar.

Rename current design

Opens the dialog for renaming the current self-created design.

Select design
In order to select a design for the current project, click on its symbol and confirm with "OK".

Import design
In order to integrate another design into WinCC, click on "Import design" and select the desired
design in the file selection dialog.

Export design
In order to use a design in another project, select it, click on "Export design" and save it as an
XML file under a different name.

Add new design

In order to create a new design, click on "Add new design". The new design appears in the
design bar with an automatically provided name.

Rename current design

In order to rename the current self-created design, click on "Rename current design" and enter
the desired name in the "Rename" dialog.

Edit current design

In order to edit the current self-created design, modify the shadow, hover effect and color
scheme design elements in the "Global Design Settings" dialog.

Delete current design

In order to delete a design that is no longer required, click on "Delete current design" and
confirm the security prompt.

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1.7.4

How to edit your own global design

Introduction
You can determine the design of the objects globally, i.e. project-wide. You can select from
provided designs or create and activate your own designs.
The provided designs cannot be changed. You can only edit the designs that you create
yourself.

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Procedure
1. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The "Project Properties" dialog opens.

2. On the "User Interface and Design" tab, click "Edit" next to "Active Design".
The "Global Design Settings" dialog opens.

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3.

4.

Click on
"Add new design".
A new design appears in the design bar.
Click on

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5. If necessary, activate the shadow view and click on the "Shadow" button.
The "Shadow Settings" dialog is opened.

6. Set the shadow offset and the shadow color.

When you check "Synchronize", the offset in x and in y always remains the same.
7. Click "OK" to confirm the changes.
The "Global Design Settings" dialog opens again.

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8. If necessary, activate the hover effect and click on the "Hover" button.
The "Hover Settings" dialog is opened. The hover effect changes the object when the mouse
pointer is moved over it.

9. Set the desired hover effect:

Increase brightness - when the mouse pointer moves over the object, the entire object
becomes brighter
Inner glow - when the mouse pointer is moved over the object, the inside of the object
glows in the selected color
Outer glow - when the mouse pointer is moved over the object, the edge of the object
glows in the selected color
10.Click "OK" to confirm the changes.
The "Global Design Settings" dialog opens again.
11.Under "Display", select the desired object group or the desired design element and set its
style and the associated color scheme.
12.Click "OK" to confirm the changes.
13.Click on "Apply" to save.
14.Click "OK" to close the dialog.
The created design is displayed in the preview.

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1.7.5

How to determine the global design of the objects

Introduction
You can determine the design of the objects globally, i.e. project-wide. You can select from
provided designs or create and activate your own designs.

Procedure
1. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The "Project Properties" dialog opens.
2. On the "User Interface and Design" tab, click "Edit" next to "Active Design".
The "Global Design Properties" dialog opens.

3. Under "Designs", click on the desired design and confirm with "OK".
The selected design is displayed in the preview.

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Your Own Designs

You can edit your own designs in any manner. In particular, you can individually determine the
following settings:
Global shadow
Hover effect
Style of an object group
Color scheme of an object group

1.8

Making Settings for Runtime

1.8.1

Settings for Runtime

Introduction
When starting Runtime, WinCC uses the settings that have been specified in the Computer
Properties dialog.
WinCC adopts the default settings for Runtime in every project. There are, however, some
settings you must make yourself.
You can change the settings for Runtime at any time. If a project is running in Runtime, while
you edit the settings, you must exit Runtime and restart. The changes are then applied.
Before you activate a project, you can specify the following settings.

Startup Tab
Entry

Function

Start sequence of WinCC Runtime

Applications that are loaded in Runtime

Additional Tasks/Applications

Programs or tasks started with WinCC Runtime (for example,

MS Excel)
Make sure that you only start tasks that you actually need on
the computer.

Parameters Tab
Entry

Function

Language Setting at Runtime

Runtime language

Default Language at Runtime

Runtime uses the text from this language if no text is available

in the set runtime language.

Start Information

<no function assigned>

Disable Keys

Prevent the use of certain combinations of keys

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Entry

Function

PLC clock setting

Modify communication of projects that were migrated from

WinCC V5.

Time basis for time display in runtime

Base for setting the time in WinCC

Central time and date formatting

Determines whether date and time are displayed in

accordance with ISO8601 everywhere or whether the format
can be set locally.

Graphics Runtime Tab

Entry

Function

Project file

Shows the path and name of the current project file

Start Picture

PDL file opened as the starting picture in Runtime

Independent picture window

Makes it possible to hide the main window in order to let

picture windows appear like independent windows

Start configuration menu and toolbars

Configuration file with customized menus and toolbars

Window Attributes

Appearance of the window in Runtime

Turn Off

Prevents operator input in windows and switches of memoryintensive image operations

Hotkeys

Key combinations for operator input and picture navigation

Cursor control: Behavior

Navigation with the cursor in the picture

Cursor control: Keys

Navigation with the cursor in the picture

Screen Navigation

Navigation in the picture

Hide System Pictures

Restrict access to system pictures

Entry

Function

VBS Debug Options Graphics/Global

Script:
Start Debugger
(only suitable for test and startup
purposes)

Starts the debugger in Runtime, when the first picture is

selected with a VBS script.

VBS Debug Options Graphics/Global

Script:
Display Errors Dialog
(only suitable for test and startup
purposes)

Opens a dialog in Runtime if a VBS error occurs and allows

you to start the debugger. Script processing is interrupted.

Design Settings

Makes it possible to switch off certain design options to

improve the computer's reaction time.

Picture Cache

Path for the temporary storage of pictures

Mouse Pointer

Actions of the mouse pointer in the picture

Monitor Keyboard

Enable monitor keyboard

Runtime Tab

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See also
How to Start Runtime (Page132)
How to Set the Time Base in the Project (Page66)
Effect of External Applications at Runtime (Page111)
How to Assign Hotkeys in the Project (Page110)
How to Set Up a Startup List (Page107)
How to Specify the Computer Properties (Page59)

1.8.2

How to Set Up a Startup List

Introduction
When you activate a project, additional program modules required for execution in Runtime
are loaded. In the startup list, you specify which applications will be started when you activate
a project.
Depending on the configuration, WinCC itself enters some applications in the startup list.
Graphics Runtime is always started and is activated by default.
To achieve better performance, you should only start applications that you actually require in
Runtime.

Procedure
1. Click the Computer component in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
WinCC displays the list of computers in the data window.
2. Select the computer and then click the Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The Computer Properties dialog is opened.

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3. Click the Startup tab.

4. Activate the applications to be loaded when Runtime starts in the Start sequence of the
WinCC Runtime list box.
The activated modules are marked with a check mark in front of the entry in the list. With
the Edit button, you can open a dialog in which you can enter start parameters for an
application.

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5. If you want to open additional programs or tasks when you start Runtime, click the Add
button.
The Add Application dialog is opened.

6. Enter the application and the full path in the Application input box. You can locate the file
using the Browse button.
7. If required, select the start parameters, the working folder for the application, and the
window properties.
Click OK to confirm.
The added application is entered in the Additional Tasks/Applications box. With the Remove
button, you can delete an application from the startup list.
8. Select an application and click the Up and Down buttons. This is how you specify the order
in which the applications are started. The list of additional applications is read out from top
to bottom.
9. Click OK to close the dialog.

Multi-user system
In a multi-user system, make sure that you only start tasks on the client that the client really
needs.

See also
How to Specify the Computer Properties (Page59)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
How to Start Runtime (Page132)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)
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1.8.3

How to Assign Hotkeys in the Project

Introduction
You can assign the following hotkeys for your project:
Logon opens a window to log on a user in Runtime
Logoff opens a window to log off a user in Runtime
Hardcopy opens a dialog for printing the screen in Runtime

Procedure
1. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The Project Properties dialog is opened.
2. Select the Hotkeys tab and choose the required action in the Actions list box.

3. Click in the Previously Assigned to input box. Press the required key combination.
WinCC displays the keys you pressed.
4. Click the Assign button.
WinCC stores the key combination for calling the action.
5. Assign other shortcut keys to any other actions you require.
6. Click OK to close the dialog.

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See also
How to Start Runtime (Page132)
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)

1.8.4

Effect of External Applications at Runtime

Introduction
There are numerous applications that can place a heavy load on a computer. These
applications have nothing to do with WinCC but affect the system resources.

Cyclic Printing
Printing large amounts of data can utilize a lot of resources. You should defined cyclic print
jobs so that they do not all start at the same time in Runtime.

Using Virus Scanners

The following virus scanners have been released for use with WinCC V7.0:
Trend Micro "Office Scan" V8.0
Symantec AntiVirus Corporate Edition V10.2 (Norton Antivirus)
McAfee VirusScan Enterprise V8.5
Note
When using a virus scanner, make sure that the computer has sufficient system resources.
Updates started automatically over the network can cause load on the system.

Screen saver
Using a screen saver takes up processor time. This can lead to overload on the system.
There are bad screen savers that do not release parts of the work memory again and
continuously reduce the available work memory.
The Windows Start Action Screen Saver can be used.

Optimizing Processor Utilization

During continuous operation, the usable work memory becomes badly fragmented after a time.
To allow Windows to reorganize the work memory, the average utilization of the processor
should be below 75%. You can check the processor utilization in the Windows System Monitor.
If you cannot achieve processor utilization less than 75%, you should upgrade your computer.

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Defragmenting a Hard Disk

Working intensively with the Windows file system can lead to inefficient organization of the
hard disk, for example, when modified data are stored during commissioning.
To avoid loss of performance, the hard disk drive should be optimized regularly.
CAUTION
Before you start defragmentation, all authorizations must be returned to the diskettes,
otherwise they may be irretrievably lost.
When operating WinCC in Runtime, make sure that no automatic optimization is activated.
The time required for these activities can serious detrimental effects on WinCC performance.

Deactivating Power Management

To allow the WinCC Runtime system to operate correctly, power management must be
deactivated in the BIOS setup and in the Control Panel of Windows.
If power management is activated, you may encounter problems when archiving process data
and messages. The function can lead to a lack of resources when virtual memory is accessed.
Fast reactions to operator input are then no longer possible.

FindFast.exe
The Microsoft FindFast.exe application is used to accelerate searches for documents.
When configuring with WinCC, it is possible that FindFast.exe takes up a considerable
percentage of processor capacity. You should therefore remove Microsoft Indexing from the
Autostart folder of the operating system.

See also
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)

1.8.5

Setting up Runtime

1.8.5.1

How to set up Runtime

Introduction
To test a WinCC project in Runtime, first setup the project's applications and operator functions
that available in Runtime. These project settings must be adjusted for every computer on which
the project should run.

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Using the "Computer properties" dialog, which is opened from WinCC Explorer, you can make
the following project settings:
"General" tab
Configure computer name and computer type
"Startup" tab
Define modules and applications, which are to be started using the command "Activate
Runtime".
"Parameter" tab
Change default settings for Language and Time in Runtime and lock certain key
combinations
"Graphics Runtime" tab
Change default settings for the use of process pictures in Runtime
"Runtime" tab
User-specific settings for all WinCC projects on this computer

Requirements
A project must be opened.

Open the "Computer properties" dialog

1. Select the entry "Computer" in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
All computers that are available for the current project, will be displayed in the data window.
2. In WinCC Explorer's data window, double-click the desired computer.
The "Computer Properties" dialog will open.

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See also
How to change the computer name (Page114)
How to configure the applications available in Runtime (Page116)
How to Specify the Computer Properties (Page59)
How to Set Up a Startup List (Page107)
How to Change the default settings for Language, Time and Key Combinations (Page117)
How to define hotkeys for operation and screen navigation (Page119)
How to define a picture as the start picture in Runtime (Page122)
How to configure the cursor control in Runtime (Page124)
How to Activate Zoom Functions in Runtime (Page126)
How to make computer-specific settings for runtime (Page128)
How to switch off the optimized drawing (Page130)
Activating Project (Page132)
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)
Testing Process Pictures in Runtime (Page656)

1.8.5.2

How to change the computer name

Introduction
To test a WinCC project in Runtime, the local computer name must be entered as a computer
name in the project.
The computer name is changed on the "General" tab in the "Computer properties" dialog.

Requirements
A project must be opened.
The "Computer properties" dialog must be open.

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Procedure
1. Click the "General" tab.

2. Enter the name of the computer in the "Computer name" field.

3. In the "Computer Type" area, define which function is performed by this computer.
4. Confirm your entry with "OK".
The changed computer name will not be applied until WinCC is restarted.

See also
How to set up Runtime (Page112)

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1.8.5.3

How to configure the applications available in Runtime

Introduction
The "Runtime" command is used to load additional program modules, which are required for
the execution of Runtime. To ensure the maximum performance, activate only the applications
that are actually needed in Runtime.
The applications, which will be available in Runtime, are configured on the "Startup" tab in the
"Computer properties" dialog.

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Start sequence of WinCC Runtime

Select the modules that should be loaded while activating Runtime. The activated modules
will be identified by a tick in front of each associated entry in the list.
Click the "Edit" button to modify the start parameter for a selected Runtime module.

Additional Tasks / Applications

In addition to the modules given in the upper area, other applications can be also be linked to
start with the "Runtime" command.
Click the "Add" button to add the required applications to the list. You can clear an entry from
the list by selecting it and then clicking on "Remove".
Click the "Edit" button to modify the start parameter for a selected application.
To change the sequence in which the individual applications are started, use the "Up" and
"Down" buttons to rearrange the selected entries in the list. The list of additional applications,
which should be started, is read from top to bottom.
Note
Each module requires computing power. Therefore, make certain that you only activate the
modules that will be needed in Runtime.

See also
How to set up Runtime (Page112)

1.8.5.4

How to Change the default settings for Language, Time and Key Combinations

Introduction
The configured language and the display mode for the time can be preset before activating
Runtime. It is also possible to lock specific key-combinations.
The default settings for language, time and key-combinations are configured on the
"Parameters" tab in the "Computer properties" dialog.

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Language Settings in Runtime

Select the language with which the project should be activated in Runtime on the selected
computer.

Default Language at Runtime

Select the alternate language in which the text of graphics objects is supposed to be displayed
if the respective translations do not exist in the language specified under "Language Setting
at Runtime".

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Disable Keys
To prevent operator errors in Runtime, Windows-typical key-combinations can be
locked.
Activate a check box to lock the respective key combination in Runtime.

PLC Time Setting

Select the time setting that is valid for the PLC. A detailed description can be found in the
chapter entitled "Time Settings in WinCC".

Time base for the time shown in Runtime

Select the mode for displaying the time in Runtime and in the report system. The following
options are available "Local time zone", "Coordinated world time (UTC)" and "Server's time
zone".

Central date and time formatting

Specify if date and time formatting should be configured at the components or if it should be
forced at all components using the ISO 8601 format. A detailed description can be found in
the chapter entitled "Time Settings in WinCC".

See also
Setting Time in WinCC (Page64)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)

1.8.5.5

How to define hotkeys for operation and screen navigation

Introduction
Process pictures can also be operated when a mouse is not available. For this purpose, keycombinations must be defined to call the required operator functions.
The most important hotkeys for mouseless operation in Runtime are set on the "Graphics
Runtime" tab in the "Computer properties" dialog.

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Procedure
1. Click in the entry field for the desired function to activate it for the entry of a hotkey
(combination).
2. Press and hold down the desired combination key .
You can use <CTRL>, <ALT> or <SHIFT> as combination keys.
3. Now also press the key which should call the function.
The selected key combination (such as <ALT+F>) is displayed in the input field.
4. If you want to change your entry, click in the entry field again.
As an alternative, you can enter a single key or a function key <F1> - <F12> instead of a key
combination.
Note
The function key F12 may not be configured as a systemwide hotkey.

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Hotkey
Changes made to the hotkeys are first effective after the system has been restarted.

Window On Top
This hotkey is used to navigate between multiple picture windows, which are configured in a
main picture. Whenever the hotkey is pressed, the next picture window will be activated for an
operation.

Tab or Alpha Cursor

This hotkey toggles the "Cursor Mode" attribute. With this hotkey, a process picture can be
operated with both an alpha cursor and a tab order cursor. A tab sequence must be configured
for both types of cursors.

Runtime Cursor On/Off

By default, the selected object in Runtime will not be highlighted. This hotkey can be used to
activate a Runtime cursor, which will highlight the currently selected object with a frame.
Note
The <DEL> and <HOME> keys cannot be used as hotkeys.

Screen Navigation
In all common Internet browsers, the "Forward" and "Backward" buttons make it easy to switch
between Internet pages, which were recently examined. A similar technique can be
implemented in WinCC to navigate between individual process pictures.
In the "Screen Navigation" area, you can configure hotkeys that will make it easy for you to
switch between the most recently called process pictures in Runtime. Process pictures will be
recorded in a temporary list whenever they are called. With the "Forward" and "Backward"
functions, you can page through this list to, for example, call the last five pictures once again.
The maximum permissible number of entries in this list is set in the field "Picture Buffer Size".
If this number is exceeded, the oldest entry will be replaced when a new picture is called.
You can define hotkeys for the following functions:
"Forward": Retrieves the next configured process picture
"Backward": Retrieves the previous configured process picture
"Start picture": Retrieves the picture that has been defined as the start picture
"Stored Picture": Retrieves the picture that was last marked with the function "Store Picture"
"Store picture": Function for storing the currently displayed picture

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Note
With the default value for "Picture Buffer Size", the list will record the calls for a maximum of
30 pictures. As a rule, it is not reasonable to substantially increase this value, since the
switchover can only be done in single steps. You can achieve more efficient screen navigation
using picture modules.

See also
How to configure the cursor control in Runtime (Page124)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)

1.8.5.6

How to define a picture as the start picture in Runtime

Introduction
Runtime can only be started, when one of the project's process pictures has been defined as
the start picture. This start picture will be displayed when Runtime is activated from WinCC
Explorer.
The start picture is defined on the "Graphics Runtime" tab card in the "Computer properties"
dialog.

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Requirements
A project must be opened.
The "Computer properties" dialog must be open.

Procedure
In the "Start picture" field, enter the name of the desired picture file in the PDL format or click
the "Find..." button to select it.

Alternative Procedure
1. Click in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer with the left-hand mouse button on
the entry "Graphics Designer".
All pictures of the current project are displayed in the data window (format PDL).
2. Now right click the desired picture and select "Define screen as start screen".
The selected picture is entered into the "Start picture" field in the tab "Graphics Runtime".

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See also
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
The pop-up menu in the Data Window (Page221)

1.8.5.7

How to configure the cursor control in Runtime

Introduction
In process pictures with objects arranged in a tabular form, it is possible to define a cursor
control to permit mouseless navigation between the configured objects.
The hotkeys for the cursor control and the behavior of the cursor are set on the "Graphics
Runtime" tab in the "Computer properties" dialog.

Reaction
Specify how the cursor should react in a table of listed objects, once it has reached the last
object in a line or column: This requires all objects are assembled as a complete table. The

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table cannot have gaps. The height and width of the objects must be identical and the objects
must be arranged vertically and horizontally to the exact pixel.

Normal
The cursor returns to the first object in the same line or column.

Normal without rollback

The cursor remains positioned on the last object in the line or column.

Extended
The cursor continues to the first object in the next line or column.

keys
Four hotkeys can be defined here for cursor control in Runtime.
First select the desired combination key by placing a tick in the associated check box. Then
press a key for the desired cursor direction in the corresponding entry field.
Select the option "Turn on during activation", if the hotkeys for cursor control should always
be available in Runtime.

See also
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)

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1.8.5.8

How to Activate Zoom Functions in Runtime

Introduction
Zooming in Runtime is supported by three techniques:
Decluttering
Layers and the objects stored there can be shown and hidden. Limit values for masking
and unmasking of objects are specified in menu "Tools>Settings" on the "Hide/Show" tab
of Graphics Designer.
Extended Zooming
The view of the process picture in Runtime may be zoomed in or out using the mouse wheel.
Hold the <CTRL> key down while turning the mouse wheel. If you turn the mouse wheel
away from the palm of your hand, you increase the zoom factor.
Panning
If a picture has a zoom factor that shows the picture with scrollbars, you can move a picture
cutout within the document. A navigation crosshair appears upon clicking on the mouse
wheel. Moving the mouse pointer scrolls in the desired direction. The distance between
mouse pointer and navigation crosshair determines the scrolling speed. Another click will
deactivate panning.

Conditions for Using Zoom Function:

a mouse driver by Logitech or Microsoft Intellimouse
the mouse wheel must be set to "Autoscroll".
Both functions Decluttering and Extended Zooming may be turned off in the "Graphics
Runtime" tab of the "Computer Properties" dialog. Activate the checkboxes of both respective
entries in the area "Turn off". In the default setting the checkboxes are deactivated, i.e. the
functions Decluttering and Extended Zooming are turned on.

Configuring Extended Zooming Picture-Specific

The function Extended Zooming may be turned on or off picture-specific. The setting is
specified in the object properties of the selected picture in the "Miscellaneous" property group.
If you turn of the function Extended Zooming for a process picture, Extended Zooming must
also be turned on for all process pictures in the "Graphics Runtime" tab of the "Computer
Properties" dialog.

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A detailed description of the zoom function may be found in Chapter "Showing and Hiding
Layers and Objects".
Note
WinCC Controls cannot be decluttered, except for "WinCC Slider Control", "WinCC Clock
Control" and "WinCC Gauge Control".

See also
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Showing and hiding layers and objects (Page264)
Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page228)
The Zoom Palette (Page243)

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1.8.5.9

How to make computer-specific settings for runtime

Introduction
Some additional functions for WinCC Runtime can be activated on the "Runtime" tab in the
"Computer Properties" dialog. The settings made on this tab apply for all WinCC projects run
on this computer. The following settings can be made:
Set debug options for Visual Basic scripts in Graphics Designer
Set debug options for Visual Basic scripts in Global Script
Restrict global design effects
Use picture cache
Change mouse pointer
Enable monitor keyboard

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Start Debugger
If the "Start Debugger" function is activated, the Debugger will be started when the first VB
script is started in Runtime. The prerequisite for this function is that a Debugger for Visual
Basic must have been installed. The function speeds up the troubleshooting during the
planning phase.
The "Start Debugger" function can be configured separately for VB scripts in Graphics
Designer pictures and for VB scripts in Global Script. For this reason, there are separate check
boxes.

Display Errors Dialog

If the "Display Errors Dialog" function is activated, an error dialog will be displayed in the event
that an error occurs in a VB script. The dialog will display information about the error that has
occurred. A debugger can be started by clicking on the corresponding button in the error dialog.
The prerequisite for this function is that a Debugger for Visual Basic must have been installed.
The "Display Errors Dialog" function can be configured separately for VB scripts in Graphics
Designer pictures and for VB scripts in Global Script. For this reason, there are separate check
boxes.

Design Settings
The global design requires the recommended hardware equipment. You can improve the
computer's reaction time by switching off certain elements of the global design:
"Use "WinCC Classic" design": WinCC Runtime appears in the WinCC Classic Design
regardless of the settings in the project properties.
WinCC Classic Design does not allow for the use of all new program elements in WinCC.
"Disable shadow": The shadow is generally switched off in the process pictures.
"Deactivate background/progressions": Switches off the background picture and the color
progressions.

Picture Cache
To display the Runtime pictures, WinCC normallly accesses the corresponding WinCC Server
and retrieves the current pictures from it. Using the "Picture cache", it is possible to store the
WinCC pictures locally for display in Runtime. This function is quite useful when working with
WinCC Clients which are e.g. connected to the WinCC Server via a modem. When a Picture
Cache is used, the WinCC Client need not reload the pictures continually. The required pictures
must be manually saved on the computer which should use the Picture Cache. For this create
a folder in the standard directory <"WinCC Installationsverzeichnis"/bin/PDLCache> on this
computer. The name of the folder must have the name of the symbolic computer name of the
package created on the server.
The path to the location where the pictures are stored must be entered in the "Path" editing
field. Enter the path information to the directory where the "PDLCache" folder is located. If you
use the standard directory, you do not need to enter the path.
The following options are available in the "Use Cache" field:

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Selection

Function

not

The Picture Cache will not be used.

Preferred

Modified pictures will read from Server, unchanged pictures will be read from the Picture Cache.

always

The pictures will always be read from the Picture Cache.

If a picture is changed on the WinCC Server, this picture must be manually updated in the
Picture Cache.
Note
You must save the pictures in a folder in the "PDL Cache" directory. You must rename the
folder according to the symbolic computer name of the package saved on the server.
If you do not want to save the folder with the pictures in the default directory, you must always
create a "PDL Cache" directory first. You can then create the folder with the pictures in this
directory.

Mouse pointer
In the mouse pointer area, you can configure WinCC Runtime to use a different mouse pointer
button, open the file selection dialog and navigate to the place
in the display. With the
where the cursor is saved. Select the desired cursor. The cursor data must be available in the
"cur" or "ani" file format.

Monitor keyboard
A tick in the "Enable monitor keyboard" check box will cause the virtual keyboard to be activated
when WinCC Runtime is started. For further information, please see the chapter entitled
"Monitor keyboard".

See also
Global Design of the Objects (Page92)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)

1.8.5.10

How to switch off the optimized drawing

Introduction
The "Optimized Drawing" setting affects the picture setup in Runtime. When the "Optimized
Drawing" setting is activated, WinCC uses the background buffer. The pictures thus appear
faster and more consistently in Runtime because they displayed in full right away.
The optimized drawing is activated by default. It is however very memory-intensive.

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Optimized drawing deactivated

When you deactivate the optimized drawing, the full picture building takes longer - each object
is drawn individually. This can in particular cause the objects in the pictures to flicker for
application objects and controls.
We recommend deactivating the optimized drawing only in the case of memory bottlenecks
and very large monitor resolutions.

Procedure
1. Click "Computer" in WinCC Explorer and select "Properties" in the pop-up menu.
2. Select your computer and click "Properties".
The "Computer Properties" dialog opens.

3. Activate the "Graphics Runtime" tab and check option "Optimized Drawing" under "Turn
Off".
When you activate the option, the optimized drawing is switched off in Runtime.

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1.9

Activating Project

1.9.1

Activating Project

Introduction
If you wish to operate and observe a process, you must Runtime the respective project. WinCC
starts Runtime and activates communication with the programmable controller. All process
data is stored in the Runtime databases.
In this chapter, you will learn
the settings you can make in Runtime
how to Runtime a project
how to deactivate a project
how to Runtime a project automatically when you boot your computer
Note
When you start WinCC or open a project, holding down the keys <CRTL>+<SHIFT> prevents
WinCC from activating Runtime at the same time.
When starting WinCC, if you hold down the keys <ALT>+<SHIFT>, you prevent WinCC
opening a project at the same time. This also prevents Runtime being started at the same
time.

See also
How to Exit Runtime (Page137)
How to Set Up Autostart (Page135)
How to Start Runtime (Page132)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)

1.9.2

How to Start Runtime

Introduction
When you start Runtime, you activate your project. All configured processes are started and
run if the status of the system permits. You can also activate your project on a test system.
You may receive error messages, however, it processes cannot run as intended on the test
system.

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Principle
You can start Runtime in several ways:
From the toolbar of the WinCC Explorer
From the menu bar of the WinCC Explorer
When you start WinCC
From Autostart when you start the Windows system
During configuration you can call individual pictures in Runtime:
From the toolbar of the Graphics Designer
From the menu bar of the Graphics Designer

Requirements
The computer must have the required Runtime license installed.
The correct computer name must be entered in the project.
A picture must be specified as the start picture.
Note
On project activating, free memory space of at least 100 MB must be available.

Procedure
1. Open the required project in the WinCC Explorer.
2. In the toolbar, click the
button.
The Activate DATABASENAME dialog is opened. WinCC displays the applications that will
be started. The WinCC Runtime window opens with the settings you selected in the
Computer Properties dialog.
Note
During start of WinCC or during opening of a project, holding down the key combination
<SHIFT>+<CTRL> prevents that WinCC activates the project immediately.
When starting WinCC, if you hold down the keys <SHIFT>+<ALT>, you prevent WinCC
opening a project immediately. This also prevents Runtime being started at the same time.

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Alternative Procedures
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer
Open the File menu in the menu bar and select the Activate command. As long as Runtime is
activated, WinCC displays a check mark beside the Activate command.

When you start WinCC

You can exit WinCC while a project is activated. When you restart WinCC again, WinCC opens
the project and starts Runtime immediately.

Autostart when You Start the Windows System

You can also start WinCC using Autostart when the computer starts up. You can also specify
that WinCC starts immediately in Runtime.

Graphics Designer
You can call a picture opened in the Graphics Designer in Runtime. If Runtime is already open,
the picture replaces the current screen.
You can use this function in the following situations:
You want to test a picture in Runtime.
You want to update a picture in an activated project without any delay.
In the toolbar, you can start Runtime by clicking the

button.

In the menu bar, you can start Runtime in the File menu with the Activate Runtime command.
Note
You cannot exit Runtime from Graphics Designer. Exit Runtime in WinCC Explorer.

Multi-User Systems
In a multi-user system you must start Runtime on all servers first. Once all projects are activated
you start Runtime on the WinCC clients.

Redundant Systems
When you start a project in a redundant system, you must first start Runtime on the master
server. You can then start Runtime on the standby server.

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Activating a Project from a Remote Computer

In a multi-user system, you can activate a project on a computer from another computer. You
must have the necessary access rights. You find more detailed information in the WinCC
Information System under Configurations > Multi-User Systems.

See also
How to Set Up Autostart (Page135)
How to Exit Runtime (Page137)
Settings for Runtime (Page105)
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)

1.9.3

How to Set Up Autostart

Introduction
When you boot your computer, WinCC can be started with a selected project. Specify the
project to be opened using the "AutoStart Configuration" tool.

Variants of Autostart
When you set up Autostart, you have the following options:
Setting in Autostart

Action when the Windows system starts

Opening a Project

WinCC starts up. The project is opened in the WinCC Explorer.

If the project was activated when you last exited, Runtime starts.

Add an alternative / redundant

project

If you wish to start a client with redundant servers using autostart,

also enter the alternative/redundant project into the autostart
configuration. If the server is not available, the alternative project
is started after a certain amount of time.

Activate project at startup

WinCC starts up. The project is started in Runtime. the WinCC

Explorer is not opened.
If the autostart configuration of the client has set the check box
Activate Project at Startup and the server is in CS and is available,
the server and then the client will be activated.

Allow "Cancel" on activation

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the "Cancel" button to cancel activation of it.

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Note
If the user does not have administrator rights, he may not configure the autostart configuration
and may not enter a login after clicking the AutostartRT Hangup option. A user with
administrator rights may enable autostart for users with automatic login by selecting the check
box Automatic Login for all Windows Users.
In the case of autostart on a client without a separate project, the user needs the "Configure
remote" WinCC system authorization. The project is opened implicitly in the background on
the client during autostart.
After the overall loading from the Engineering Station (ES) to the Operator Station (OS), you
must reconfigure autostart on the client for safety reasons. You must enter user name and
password again.

Procedure
1. Open the Windows start menu and select "SIMATIC > WinCC" and then the "Autostart"
command.
The "AutoStart Configuration" dialog opens.
2. Select the required project by clicking the
button beside the Project box.
The project file and its full path are entered in the box.
3. If you want the project to be opened in Runtime, check the "Activate project at startup" box.
4. Click the "Activate Autostart" button.
The next time you boot the computer, WinCC starts automatically and the selected project
is opened.

Removing WinCC from Autostart

If you no longer want WinCC to start when you boot the computer, you can remove the project
from Autostart.
Open the "AutoStart Configuration" dialog and click the "Deactivate Autostart" button. WinCC
is removed from Autostart. The project path remains registered in the Project box.
Note
If you have configured Autostart for a project, the project is also restarted when the "SIMATIC
WinCC CCProjectMgr" service is restarted.

See also
Opening WinCC Explorer (Page29)
How to Start Runtime (Page132)

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1.9.4

How to Exit Runtime

Introduction
When you exit Runtime, you deactivate your project. All active processes are stopped.

Principle
You can exit Runtime in several ways:
From the toolbar of the WinCC Explorer
From the menu bar of the WinCC Explorer
When you close a project
When you close the WinCC Explorer
With a C Action in the activated project

Procedure
1. Change to the WinCC Explorer.
2. Click the
button in the toolbar.
The Deactivate DATABASENAME dialog is opened. WinCC displays the applications that
will be exited. The WinCC Runtime window is closed.

Alternative Procedure
Menu Bar of the WinCC Explorer
Open the File menu in the menu bar and select the Activate command. WinCC removes the
check mark beside the command indicating that Runtime is activated.

Closing the Project

You can close the project running in Runtime. This deactivates the project.

Closing the WinCC Explorer

You can close WinCC while a project is activated. This deactivates the project.
Note
After starting, WinCC always opens the last project that was open before you exited. If the
project was activated when you exited WinCC, it will be opened in Runtime again.

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C Action in the Activated Project

You can, for example, configure a button in the project with which you can exit Windows. To
do this, use the Exit WinCC Runtime and Exit WinCC dynamic wizards.

Multi-User Systems
In a multi-user system, you can deactivate a project in any order on the servers and clients. If
you first exit Runtime on a server, the boxes with the missing process values in the client
projects are deactivated (gray). As soon as you start the corresponding server again, WinCC
adopts the current values in the client project.

Deactivating a Project from a Remote Computer

In a multi-user system, you can deactivate a project on a computer from another computer.
You must have the necessary access rights. You find more detailed information in the WinCC
Information System under Configurations > Multi-User Systems.

See also
How to Start Runtime (Page132)
Closing WinCC Explorer (Page32)
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

1.10

Copying and Duplicating Projects

1.10.1

Copying and Duplicating Projects

Introduction
You copy or duplicate a project with all important data onto the local or another computer using
the Project Duplicator.
A project can be copied using the "Save As ..." feature in the following cases:
You want the same project to be edited on several computers.
You want a project to run in a multi-user system on several computers.
You want to edit a project and use the download changes online function.
You want to archive a project as a backup.
After you have copied the project, you can save it to a storage medium.
You duplicate a project in the following case:

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You want a project to be duplicated on a redundant server.

See also
How to duplicate a redundant project at runtime (Page145)
How to Duplicate a Project for Redundant Servers (Page142)
How to Copy a Project (Page139)

1.10.2

How to Copy a Project

Introduction
You can copy the configuration data and the runtime data of a closed project.
Note
The copying of variables or structure types from an open project to another project is not
allowed. For example, you open an old project and copy a structure type and the structure
variables. Then you open a new project and add the structure type and the structure variables.
Make regular backups of a project during configuration. This allows you to go back to a
previous version of the project and continue from there.
If you modify a project later, you should also make a backup on completion of each change.
If necessary, you can then revert to the original version without having to edit the project
again.

Principle
Select the project you want to copy in the Project Duplicator.
Enter the folder into which the project will be copied. In the description below, this folder is
called the target folder.
The target folder can be on the same computer or on another computer in the network for
which you have access rights. The project folder is created in the target folder. When you copy
it, you can change the name of the project. The project folder is created with the project name.
You can only copy the entire project and the entire folder structure. You cannot exclude any
data or folders from the copy operation.
After the project has been copied, you can open and edit or activate it immediately. If you open
the project on another computer, you must change the computer name.

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Note
If the Duplicate or Save As ... options of the Project Duplicator are used, the same WinCC
version must be installed on the target computer.
Projects created using SIMATIC Manager should not be copied using the Project Duplicator.

Copying to a storage medium

You cannot copy a project directly to a data medium. If you want to copy a project for archiving
on an external data medium, such as a CD-ROM, copy the project to a local folder. Then copy
this folder to the data medium.
If you compress the project files before copying, for example in a ZIP archive, you need less
space on the data medium. This also prevents each individual file from becoming read-only
after copying to a CD-ROM.

Copying a project with project-based access protection

SIMATICSTEP7 must be installed in order to create a copy of a WinCC project with projectbased access protection.
When you click the "Save As" button in the "WinCC Project Duplicator" dialog, you have to
enter the password for the STEP7 project.
If SIMATICSTEP7 is not installed or you enter the wrong password, the Project Duplicator
aborts with an error message.

Requirements
The project to be copied must be closed. Another project may remain open on the source
computer and may run in Runtime.
The target folder has been created.
You have access rights for the target folder.
No WinCC project must be open on the target computer since write-protected or systemaccessed data cannot be overwritten by the Project Duplicator.
The target computer has enough free space on the hard disk.

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Procedure
1. In the Windows start menu, select "Project Duplicator" under "SIMATIC > WinCC > Tools".
The WinCC Project Duplicator is opened.

2. Enter the project you want to duplicate in the "Select the source project that is to be
duplicated" field. Enter the path and the <PROJECT>.MCP project file directly or browse
for them by clicking the
button.
3. Click the Save As... button. The "Saves a WinCC project" dialog is opened.

4. Select the folder to which you want to copy your project and enter the name of the project
in the "File name" field.
If you wish to save a copy of the project with a different name, enter the new name. The
project files are renamed accordingly when the project is copied.
5. Click on the "Save" button.
The "Copy ..." window opens. When copying, the Project Duplicator displays the files and
folders with a progress bar. Use the "Cancel" button to stop the copying.

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6. Close the Project Duplicator with the Close button.
7. If you have copied the project to another computer, the original computer name is still
entered in the project properties. Correct the computer name in the project properties when
the project is opened for the first time. The modified computer name is adopted after you
close and open the project again.

Alternative procedure
You can also copy a project in the SIMATIC Manager using the "Download to CPU" feature.
For more detailed information, refer to the WinCC Information System under "Working with
WinCC > Integration of WinCC in the SIMATIC Manager".

Copying a multi-user project

If you copy a multi-user project to another computer, you must adapt the computer name after
opening the project.
If you have already created packages in the copied project, the old computer name will be
used when the packages are generated. Before the packages are created, correct the
computer name in the "Symbolic computer name" and "Physical computer name" fields.

1.10.3

How to Duplicate a Project for Redundant Servers

Introduction
If you have created a redundant system, you must synchronize the WinCC project on the
redundant servers following any modification.
To transfer the project to a redundant server, you use the WinCC Project Duplicator.
Note
You cannot use Windows Explorer to transfer a project to a redundant server.

Principle
Select the project you want to duplicate in the Project Duplicator.
Specify the computer and folder in which the project will be duplicated. The project folder is
created in this target folder.
You cannot duplicate a project on the local computer. You always duplicate a project on another
computer in the network to which you have access rights. In the description below, this is called
the target computer.
Depending on the status of the project, you can copy the configuration data and the runtime
data into the selected folder:

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Project Status

Configuration Data

Runtime Data

Project closed

Project open and deactivated

Project in Runtime

You can only duplicate the entire project and the entire folder structure. You cannot exclude
any data or folders from the duplicate operation.

Duplicating a project with project-based access protection

SIMATICSTEP7 must be installed in order to transfer a WinCC project with project-based
access protection to a redundant server.
When you click the "Duplicate" button in the "WinCC Project Duplicator" dialog, you have to
enter the password for the STEP7 project.
If SIMATICSTEP7 is not installed or you enter the wrong password, the Project Duplicator
aborts with an error message.

Requirements
The redundancy option is installed on both computers.
The target folder for the duplication is created on the target computer and is made available
for network access.
You have access rights for the target folder.
The target computer has enough free space on the hard disk.
The correct WinCC version must be installed on the target computer. The computer must
be started.
Runtime is deactivated on the target computer.
The project is closed on the target computer.

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Procedure
1. In the Windows start menu, select the "Project Duplicator" entry in the "SIMATIC > WinCC
> Tools" folder. The WinCC Project Duplicator is opened.

2. Enter the project you want to duplicate in the "Select the source project that is to be
duplicated" box. Enter the path and the <PROJECT>.MCP project file directly or search by
clicking the
button.
3. Enter the path where the duplicated project will be stored in the "Store duplicated project
for redundancy partner at" box. Enter the folder path and the <PROJECT>.MCP project file
directly or search by clicking the
button.
4. Click the Duplicate button.
The "Copy" window is opened. During duplication, the Project Duplicator displays the files
and folders with a progress bar. Use the "Cancel" button to stop duplication.
After duplicating the "Notes on the Project Duplicator" window is opened. WinCC indicates
the settings that you still need to check.
5. Close the Project Duplicator with the Close button.
6. Check the settings in the duplicated project and change them if necessary.
7. Check the following:
The computer name.
The settings in the Redundancy Editor.
If necessary, the settings in the editors.
Note
If you duplicate an open WinCC project on the source computer, no progress bar will
be displayed.

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1.10.4

How to duplicate a redundant project at runtime

Introduction
If you edit a redundant project, you can also update the project on the redundant server during
operation.
You can save minor changes with the Save Online Changes function and then transfer them
to the servers. You should also refer to the documentation on the topic of "Load Online
Changes".

Duplication using the Project Duplicator

Some configuration cannot be saved by the download online changes function. In this case,
you must generate a duplicate of the project to the redundant server using the Project
Duplicator.
NOTICE
No Redundancy
For changes during normal operation, you must deactivate one of the partner servers. During
this time, no redundancy is available.

Requirements
The target folder has been created.
You have access rights for the target folder.
The redundant server on which the copied project will be stored has enough free hard disk
space.

Procedure
This chapter describes how to use this function in a redundant system with the two servers
Server1 and Server2.
1. Exit Runtime on the redundant Server1 and close the project.
2. Make the configuration changes on Server2 in Runtime and save the changes.
3. Start the Project Duplicator on Server2.
4. Use the "Duplicate" button to duplicate the project on Server1 to the target folder of the
project deactivated under "1." and overwrite it.
5. Open the project on Server1.
6. Check the settings.
7. Start Runtime and wait for the redundancy synchronization.

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1.11 Appendix

1.11

Appendix

1.11.1

Editors and Functions in WinCC Explorer

Introduction
You can see the installed WinCC editors and functions in the navigation window of the WinCC
Explorer. The editor belonging to an option is only visible in the navigation window when the
option is installed.
Some tools and some WinCC options are not displayed in the WinCC Explorer. You can open
the tools in the Windows Start menu in the Simatic folder under WinCC > Tools. You can open
some of the editors of the WinCC options independently of WinCC. For more detailed
information, refer to the help on the specific options.

Opening an Editor
You can open an editor in the WinCC Explorer in the following ways:
Using the pop-up menu of the editor in the data window or in the navigation window
By double-clicking the editor in the navigation window

List of Editors and Functions

The following two tables list all editors and functions that you can open using the WinCC
Explorer.
The tables contain the following information:
Object:
Name of the editor or function in the WinCC Explorer.
Use:
Information on what the object is used for.
Online Help:
This column names the relevant chapters in the WinCC Information System that contain
more detailed information on the object.
Import/Export Tools:
Names tools which can be used to import or export data.
Switch language:
Indicates whether or not foreign languages can be configured.
Online Configuration:
Indicates whether or not the object can be used while the project is active in Runtime. You
find information on restrictions regarding online configuration in chapter Online
Configuration and in the description of the editors.

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Object

Usage

Online Help 1)

Import/Export
Tools

Language
Switching

Online
Configuration

Computer

Computer name and

properties, project
properties (client and
servers)

Working with projects

---

Yes

Yes 2)

Tag Management

Tag Management:
Creating and editing tags
and Communication
drivers

Working with tags

WinCC
Configuration
Tool

---

Yes 2)

Structure Tag

Creating and editing

structure types and
structure tags

Process picture
dynamics

WinCC
Configuration
Tool

---

Yes 2)

Graphics Designer Creating and editing

process pictures

Creating Process
Pictures

Export function
of the editor

Yes

Yes

Menus and
toolbars

Configure user-defined
menus and toobars for
process pictures

Creating Process
Pictures

---

Yes

Yes

Alarm Logging

Configuring messages
and archiving events

Setting up an Alarm
System

WinCC
Configuration
Tool

Yes

Yes 2)

Text Library
Tag Logging

Logging and archiving tags Working with process

values

WinCC
Configuration
Tool

---

Yes

Report Designer

Configuring reports and

report layouts

Documentation of
Configuration and
Runtime Data

---

Yes

Yes 2)

Global Script

Making a project dynamic

with C functions and
actions

ANSI-C for creating

functions and actions

Export function
of the editor

Yes

Yes

Text Library

Creating and editing

language-dependent user
texts

Setting up multilingual
projects

Export function
of the editor

Yes

Yes

Text Distributor

Exporting and importing

language-dependent text

Setting up multilingual
projects

Export and
Import function
of the Editor

Yes

Yes

User Administrator Managing access

permissions for users and
user groups

Setting up user
administration

Text Library

Yes

Yes

Cross Reference

Localizing, displaying, and

rewiring the location at
which objects are used

Working with cross

reference lists

---

---

Yes

Load online
changes

Transferring edited data to

the operator station

Working with projects

---

---

Yes 2)

Server data

Creating and editing

packages for multi-user
systems

Configurations >
Multi-user Systems

---

---

Yes

You will find the chapters listed in the WinCC Information System in the book Working with
WinCC.
1)

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2)

with restrictions

Options

148

Object

Usage

Online Help

Import/
Export
Tools

Language
Switching

Online
Configurati
on

WebNavigator

Operating and
monitoring using
Internet/intranet

Options >
WebNavigator

---

Yes

---

DataMonitor
WebEdition

Displaying archive
values in Internet/
intranet

Options >
WebNavigator >
DataMonitor

---

Yes

---

Redundancy

Configurations >
Operating two
servers at the same Redundant
time in a redundant Systems
system

---

---

Yes

User Archive

Configurable
database system
for data from
technical
processes, for
example for
recipes and
setpoints

Options > User

Archives

Text
Library

Yes

Yes

OS Project Editor

Initializing and
configuring the
Runtime user
interface and alarm
systems in PCS 7

Options for
Process Control
> OS Project
Editor

---

---

---

Time synchronization Synchronizing the

time of day on all
clients and servers

Options for
Process Control
> Time
synchronization

---

---

Yes

Horn

Indicating
message-relevant
events on signal
modules and PC
sound cards

Options for
Process Control
> Audio alarm

---

---

Yes

Picture Tree Manager Managing picture

hierarchies and
name hierarchies

Options for
Process Control
> Picture Tree
Manager

Text
Library

Yes

Yes

Lifebeat monitoring

Options for
Process Control
> Lifebeat
Monitoring

---

---

---

Permanent
monitoring of the
system

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Object

Usage

Online Help

Import/
Export
Tools

Language
Switching

Online
Configurati
on

Component List
Editor

Allocating entry
point pictures and
areas to the
measuring points

Options for
Process Control
> Component
List Editor

---

---

---

ProAgent

Configuring
process
diagnostics to
detect and
eliminate problems

Options >
ProAgent

---

---

Yes

See also
Windows of the WinCC Explorer (Page41)
Elements of the WinCC Explorer (Page35)

1.11.2

WinCC status and control in the system tray

Introduction
WinCC shows the "SIMATIC WinCC" symbol in the Taskbar Notification Area, the so-called
tray area. This symbol provides information on the project status. The WinCC project can be
activated and deactivated via the symbol's pop-up menu.

Project status
The following table shows which project status goes with which symbol:
SIMATIC WinCC symbol

Status
WinCC is not active.
No project is open.
WinCC changes the status:
WinCC opens a project.
WinCC activates a project.
WinCC deactivates a project.
WinCC closes a project.
Project is open.
The project is activated.

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Control Options via the Pop-up Menu

You can control an open project depending on its status. The pop-up menu of the "SIMATIC
WinCC" symbol provides the following control options:
Start Graphics Runtime.
End Graphics Runtime.
Activate project.
Deactivate project.
Open diagnosis window.

SIMATIC WinCC Window

To open the "SIMATIC WinCC" window, click on the "SIMATIC WinCC" symbol.
Example: Window with Runtime activated

The window shows the following information:

Project name
Project type
Project status
Computer List
The local computer is represented in blue.

Computer List
The computer list contains all computers on the network. If the project is activated, the
connection status of all existing computers is shown.
The following table shows the icons of the connection status and their meaning:
Icon

Status
No connection
Connection disconnected
Local computer
Redundant partner server

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Icon

Status
Connected
With standby server
With master server, but standby server is the preferred server
Connected
With master server
With standby server as preferred server

1.11.3

WinCC diagnostics window and license information

Introduction
The diagnostics window provides information on the diagnostics of the local computer and
connected servers.
The "WinCC Diagnostics" dialog shows WinCC e.g. invalid licenses of the local computer and
the connected servers.

Diagnostics Window.
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The diagnostics window shows diagnostics information for the local computer and the
connected computers:
Information
License messages
Warnings
Error

Control Options
Use the "Computer" and "Diagnosis type" buttons to sort the contents of the displayed
diagnostics.
For detailed information on a message, double-click on the desired message.

Information on Invalid Runtime Licenses

WinCC shows invalid Runtime licenses of the local computer and all connected servers in a
dialog that requires acknowledgement. The name of the concerned computer is listed in
brackets.

You can only use the "Details" button locally on the computer with the invalid license.
Use the "Details" button to start the Automation License Manager. The Automation License
Manager provides further information and installs the required licenses.

1.11.4

Illegal Characters

Introduction
Depending on the language and components, only certain characters are permitted in names.
In WinCC, you can use all characters of the ASCII character set. We do, however, recommend
that you avoid special national characters. Above all, you should avoid special characters in
object names, if the object names are used in scripts.
The following table lists the characters that must not be used in WinCC components, identifiers,
and names.

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Illegal characters in WinCC

Component

Illegal characters

WinCC project:
Names of WinCC projects

. , ; : ! ? " '
+ = / \ @ *
[ ] { } < >
Space
Case-sensitive

Tags:
Tag names

: ? " '
\ * $ %
Space
Not case-sensitive
@ is used only in system tags.
The period is used as a separator in structure tags.

Tags:
Names of process tags in Tag Logging

: ? " '
\ * % >
Space

Tags:
Names of archive tags in Tag Logging

: ? " '
\ * % >
Space

Tags:
Names of tag groups

? '
\
Space
Not case-sensitive

Structure types:
Names of structure types, structure
elements and structure instances

. : ? '
\ @ * %
Space

Graphics Designer:
Names of pictures (PDL files)

: ? " '
/ \ *
<>

Graphics Designer:
Names of objects in pictures

The name can be no longer than 180 characters.

If you use special characters, the maximum number of
characters is further restricted.
Avoid using special characters if the object name is used in
scripts.
For more detailed information, refer to the documentation on
VBS in the section Testing with the Debugger > Action and
Procedure Names in the Debugger.

Graphics Designer:
Text list object type

Restriction for assigned and referenced texts:

;

Graphics Designer:
Names in the Dynamic Wizard

Graphics Designer:
Faceplate

The following applies to the names of properties (Properties)

and events (Events):
! " $ % & / () = @
. , ; - _ # * ~ + ^

Spaces
Lead characters

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Component

Illegal characters

Alarm Logging:
Names of message blocks, message
classes, message types and message
texts

'
ENTER key
line feed

Tag Logging:
Archive name

. , ; : ! ? " ' ^ ` ~
- + = / \ * # % &
( ) [ ] { } < >
Space

Tag logging / trend control:

Labeling time axis and value axis

Single & character is not displayed.

Double & character is displayed once.

Report Designer:
: ? "
Names in the page layout and line layout / \ *
<>
User Administrator:
User names

'
\
Not case-sensitive

User Administrator:
passwords

'
\
Not case-sensitive

User Administrator:
User authorizations

'
\

User archives:
Names for archives, fields, views and
columns

. , ; : ! ? " ' ^ ` ~
- + = / \ @ * # $ % &
( ) [ ] { } < >
Space
The first character must be a letter.

Server data:
Names of packages

,
/\
National special characters, for example umlauts (, etc.)
are not permitted.

Illegal characters for basic settings

Component

Illegal characters

Computer name

. , ; : ! ? " ' ^ ` ~
- + = / \ @ * # $ % &
( ) [ ] { } < >
Space
only uppercase relevant
The first character must be a letter.

154

DNS host names

, ; : ! ? " ' ^ ` ~
_ + = / \ @ * # $ % &
( ) [ ] { } < >
Space

Folder path:
Names of folders

: ? " '
/ *
<>

WinCC Explorer

Restrictions depending on individual components

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Component

Illegal characters

Communication:
Names of connections under a channel
unit

Restrictions in relation to the SQL database

Communication / OPC:
Used names

. : ? " '
\ * %
Space

Web client:
Used names

. , ; : ! ? " ' ^ ` ~
- + = / \ @ * # $ % &
( ) [ ] { } < >
Space

Illegal characters for integrating in the SIMATIC Manager

Component

Illegal characters

SIMATIC Manager:
Names of WinCC projects

. , ; : ! ? " '
+ = / \ @ * %
[ ] { } < >
Space

OS compilation:
AS-OS connection names

. : ? " '
\ * %
Space

PCS7:
Hierarchy folder

. "
/\%

See also
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)
File Structure of a Project (Page155)

1.11.5

File Structure of a Project

Introduction
In a WinCC project, you find additional information in certain folders and files. By default,
WinCC projects are stored in the path Siemens\WinCC\WinCCProjects\<Project>.

Imported Files
Imported files, for example graphics, scripts, texts, programs, OCS files are located within the
folder structure.

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Data Storage
The table lists the most important data and folders.

156

Path

File

Type

Function

<Project folder>

---

Folder

Contains all
files created
for the project.

<Project folder>\GraCS

---

Folder

Contains all
pictures and
picture files of
a project.

<Project folder>
\CommonArchiving

---

Folder

Contains all
databases for
archiving.

<Project folder>

<Project>.MCP

Project
file

Starts WinCC
and opens the
project in the
WinCC
Explorer.

<Project folder>

<Project>.MDF

Database Configuration
database

<Project folder>

<Project>RT.MDF

Database Runtime
database,
database
management
(master
database)

<Project folder>

<Computer>_<Project>_ALG_JJJJMMT
THHMM.MDF

Database Runtime Data

Alarm Logging

<Project folder>

<Computer>_<Project>_TLG_F_JJJJMM Database Runtime data

TTHHMM.MDF
Tag Logging
fast
(acquisition
cycle < 1 min)

<Project folder>

<Computer>_<Project>_TLG_S_JJJJMM Database Runtime data

TTHHMM.MDF
Tag Logging
slow
(acquisition
cycle > 1 min)

Siemens\WinCC\bin

WinCC_SQL.MDF

Database Empty
Runtime
database that
can, when
necessary, be
copied to the
project and
renamed.
Created when
you create a
new project.

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Path

File

Type

Function

Siemens\WinCC

*.LOG

Log files

Reports:
setup, system
status, error
messages.

<Project folder>

UAEditor.loc

Temporar Created when

y file
the editor's
user archives
are opened.
Must be
deleted if the
editor is not
closed
correctly.

See also
Preparation to Create a Project (Page51)

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2

Resources

2.1

Working with Tags

Content
This chapter contains all important items of information about tags:
Tag Management and tag selection dialog
Tag Types
Create and edit tags
Create and edit tag groups
Create and edit structure types
Logging tags in Runtime

2.2

Tag management

Introduction
Tag Management administers the tags and communication drivers used in the project. You
will find Tag Management in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer.

Usage
Tags with values supplied by the process are referred to as process or external tags in WinCC.
In the case of process tags, Tag Management determines the communication driver by means
of which WinCC is connected to the automation system and how the exchange of data is taking
place. The associated tags are created in the directory structure of this communication driver.
Tags not supplied with values by the process, known as the "internal tags", are created in the
"Internal Tags" directory.
To provide a better overview, you can arrange the tags in Tag Management in groups.
Creating tags in Tag Management leads to a directory structure in which you can navigate in
a manner similar to Windows directories.

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Configuration of Tag Management

Menu bar

Toolbar

Navigation Window

Tooltip

Data Window

Status bar

Navigation Window
You will find Tag Management in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer.
Internal tags and associated tag groups will be found in the "Internal Tags" directory.
WinCC creates a new directory in Tag Management for each communication driver that is set
up. Under the communication driver you will find a channel unit, its connections and associated
tag groups and process tags.
Tag Management uses the following icons:

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Icon

Description
Tag management
Internal Tags
Communication Drivers
Channel Unit
Connection
Tag group
Tag
Structure type

Data Window
The data window of WinCC Explorer shows you the contents of the directory you selected in
the navigation window.

Tooltip
In Runtime you can view the status information on connections and tags as a tooltip. To view
it, move the mouse pointer in the data window to the connection or tag you want.
The tooltip contains the following information:
with a connection, brief information about the state
the current process value of a tag
the quality code of a tag
the date on which a tag was last changed
Note
A tooltip is displayed on a WinCC client only when no standard server is defined for tags.

Menu bar
At "Edit" you can cut, copy, paste and delete tags and tag groups. At "Edit" > "Properties" you
can view the properties of the selected tag, the communication driver, the channel unit or
connection.
At "View" you can modify the way in which objects are presented in the data window and update
the display.

Toolbar
For tags and tag groups you can use the "Cut", "Copy", "Paste" and "Properties" buttons.
You can modify the display in the data window by means of the "Large Icons", "Small Icons",
"List" and "Details" buttons.
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Status bar
The status bar can display the following information, regardless of the operated object:
current directory path in the project and tips on operation
External tags: Number of configured process tags
License: Number of licensed process tags (power tags)

Searching
In Tag Management you can open the search function from the shortcut menu.
You can search for tags, tag groups, connections, channel units and communication drivers.

See also
Tags (Page163)

2.3

Tag Management and Tags

2.3.1

Tag Management and Tags

Introduction
Communication between WinCC and the automation system takes place by means of
communication drivers. Data generated by the automation system or the WinCC project are
transferred by means of tags.
This chapter provides information on managing tags and on the different types of tags.

See also
Communication Driver (Page174)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page171)
Tags (Page163)
Tag management (Page159)

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2.3.2

Tags

2.3.2.1

Tags

Introduction
Data are passed on in a WinCC project by means of tags. A tag has a data address and a
symbolic name, which is used in the project. The data address is used in communication with
the automation system.
WinCC works with two kinds of tags:
Process Tags
Internal Tags
WinCC simplifies tag handling by means of two other object types:
Tag Groups
Structure types

Naming Conventions
When naming tags, you must respect certain conventions:
Tag names must be unique throughout the project. When tags are created, WinCC does
not distinguish between upper and lower case characters in a name.
Tag names must not be longer than 128 characters. In the case of structure tags, this limit
applies to the whole expression structure tag name + dot + structure tag element name.
You must not use certain characters in tag names. You will find the characters you must
not include in a name in the WinCC Information System at Working with projects >
Authorized characters
Note
You must not create tags whose name starts with an '@'. Tags with an @ prefix are created
only by WinCC and PCS 7.
Remember that WinCC distinguishes between upper and lower case characters in a
configuration. If you change upper and lower case characters in a tag name, you must adapt
your configuration accordingly.

Updating Tags
In the case of process tags, the current tag values are transferred over the communication
connection between WinCC and the connected automation systems in Runtime. In this
instance, WinCC accesses the data area on the automation system that is defined in the tag
properties. The current value of the process tag is made available by WinCC in Tag
Management after it has been transferred for further processing and evaluation. Conversely,
WinCC can also write data back to the automation system.

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In WinCC you set the frequency of data transfer and of updating in the display. Remember
while you are configuring that periodic updating of tags results in severe loading of the system
and can have an adverse effect on performance.

Importing Tags
You can also create tags external to WinCC and import them into your project.
For example, you can establish a connection to the WinCC configuration tool for your project
and create the tags with the help of the configuration tool in an Excel table. You assign certain
properties to these tags in the table. WinCC can use the configuration tool to read in the data
and then automatically creates the tags with the specified properties.

See also
Tag Selection Dialog (Page171)
Tag management (Page159)
Tag Groups (Page170)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
Internal Tags (Page166)
Process Tags (Page164)

2.3.2.2

Process Tags

Definition
You use process tags for communication between WinCC and the automation system.
The properties of process tags depend on the communication driver being used. Therefore,
create process tags in Tag Management also under a specific communication driver, its
channel unit and its connections.
You can set the following properties for process tags:
Name
Data type
Address on the channel unit
Type Conversion
Limit values
Start value
Replacement value
Scaling
Note
Process tags are also referred to "external tags" on the system.

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Usable data types

You can use the following data types for process tags:
Binary Tag
Signed 8-bit value
Unsigned 8-bit value
Signed 16-bit value
Unsigned 16-bit value
Signed 32-bit value
Unsigned 32-bit value
Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754
Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754
Text tag, 8-bit
Text tag 16-bit character set
Raw data tag

Licensing of Power Tags

For WinCC, you purchase licenses to be able to use a certain number of process tags and
archive tags.
Power tags are licensed process tags. With a license covering 2048 power tags, for example,
you are able to operate a WinCC project in Runtime on a computer which uses up to 2048
process tags. The number of licensed and configured process tags will be seen in the status
bar of WinCC Explorer.
Licenses are divided into the following types
"RC": for configuration and Runtime of a certain number of process tags
"RT": only for Runtime of a certain number of process tags
Note
The process tags required for the System Info channel need no licenses. Thus, the tags
are not entered in the license count.

See also
Tag Types (Page174)
Tag Groups (Page170)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
Internal Tags (Page166)
Editing Tags (Page202)
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)

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2.3.2.3

Internal Tags

Definition
Internal tags are not connected to the process.
You use Internal tags to manage data within a project or to transfer data to an archive.
A corresponding setting of the "Runtime persistency" property lets you set retention of the
internal tags on closing Runtime. The value saved is used as start value for the restart of
Runtime.
You can set the following properties for internal tags:
Name
Data type
Updates project-wide/on local computers (only relevant with multi-user projects without
additional client projects)
Limit values
Start value
Runtime persistency
Tag synchronization (Online synchronization the internal tags in the server project with the
redundant partner)

Usable Data Types

You can use the following data types for internal tags:
Text reference
Binary tag
Signed 8-bit value
Unsigned 8-bit value
Signed 16-bit value
Unsigned 16-bit value
Signed 32-bit value
Unsigned 32-bit value
Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754
Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754
Text tag, 8-bit
Text tag, 16-bit font
Raw Data Tag

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System tags
WinCC applications create tags required for internal administration of the project. The names
of these tags begin with an "@" character. You cannot delete or rename these tags. You can
evaluate, but not change, the value of the tag.
Exceptions to this rule are tags created with the "Redundancy" option. They can be set by
means of scripts, for example:
@RM_MASTER
@RM_MASTER_NAME
Note
You must not create tags whose name starts with an '@'. Tags with an @ prefix are created
only by WinCC and PCS 7.

See also
Tag Groups (Page170)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
Process Tags (Page164)
Editing Tags (Page202)
Tag Types (Page174)
Creating Internal Tags (Page190)

2.3.2.4

Structure Types and Structure Tags

Definition
WinCC Structure types simplify the creation of several tags having identical properties.
Name

Definition

Displayed in...

Structure type A structure type denotes a scheme that is used in WinCC

to create a certain group of tags. A structure type contains
at least one structure element.

Component Structure
Types

Structure
element

Component Structure
Types > Structure Type >
Structure Properties dialog

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is used as a template when creating a structure tag with
the help of a structure type.

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Name

Definition

Structure tag

Component Tag
Management > Internal
Tags or a connection,
under which the structure
The name of a structure tag consists of the name of the
structure instance and the name of the structure element tags were created with the
being used. Both parts of the name are separated by a dot. help of structure type.

Displayed in...

Structure
instance

If the tags defined in a structure type are created with the Component Structure
help of the structure type, a structure instance occurs. The Types > Structure Type
structure instances created with the same structure type
are displayed under this structure type in the data window.

A structure tag is a tag that was created with the help of

a structure type. The template of a structure tag is a
structure element.

The name of a structure instance is also referred to as the

tag prefix.

Principle
You define a certain tag structure when you create a structure type.
You create a structure type in WinCC Explorer. You create a structure element for each tag.
You assign the properties to a structure element which the tag created by that should possess.
When creating a tag, assign a created structure type as data type. The structure types are
displayed in the Data Type selection window according to standard data types. WinCC creates
a structure instance under the associated structure type and the structure tags in Tag
Management. The created structure tags are defined by the structure elements of this type.
In the same structure type, you can define structure elements for internal tags and process
tags. When a structure instance is created under the connection of a communication driver,
the process tags defined in the structure type are created under the connection. The internal
tags, however, are created in Tag Management at Internal tags.

Modifying Structure Types

If you have created a structure instance with a structure type, you can no longer modify the
properties of this structure type. You must first delete the structure instance. In doing so, you
also delete all associated structure tags. After that you can change the properties of the
structure type and the structure elements and regenerate a structure instance.
You can modify the properties of structure instances and structure tags later. If you rename
the structure instance, then rename the associated tags at the same time.

Usage
If a certain tag configuration occurs several times in your system, use structure types. In this
instance, for example, several temperature controllers can be involved that are always set up
according to the same principle.
Consider which tags you require for the temperature controller.
Then create a TEMPERATURE structure type in which each tag is represented by a structure
element, for example ELEMENT_1, ELEMENT_2, ELEMENT_3. Each time you create a new
structure instance with this structure type, WinCC automatically generates all structure tags
for the corresponding temperature regulator.

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You use the created structure tags when, for example, you configure pictures which you would
like to integrate by means of picture windows.

Structure types in picture windows

You configure a picture, TEMP_REGLER.PDL, for the temperature regulator. You do not
connect the objects in the picture with tags but with structure elements.
To do this, you have to enter the name manually, since you cannot directly enter elements by
means of a dialog. Alternatively, you can connect structure tags you have created and delete
the first part of the name, which is determined by the structure instance. You link e.g. the
structure tags of the structure REGLER_A. In the tag name displayed, e.g.
REGLER_A.ELEMENT_1, delete the REGLER_A and the linking point in the input field.
Configure a picture window and integrate the picture TEMP_REGLER.PDL. Open the object
properties of the picture window. Accept one of the created structure instances with a dot
behind the name, such as CONTROLLER_A., as the tag prefix.
Configure a second picture window with the picture TEMP_REGLER.PDL and the next
structure instance, e.g. REGLER_B, as tag prefix, e.g. REGLER_B..
In Runtime, WinCC composes the names of the required structure tags from the following
elements:
Tag prefixes of the picture window
Names of the structure elements linked in the pictureTEMP_REGLER.PDL
Then the first picture window displays the state of regulator A and the second picture window
the state of regulator B.

Naming Conventions
When naming, you must respect certain conventions:
Tag names must be unique throughout the project. When tags are created, WinCC does
not distinguish between upper and lower case characters in a name.
Tag names must not be longer than 128 characters. In the case of structure tags, this limit
applies to the whole expression structure tag name + dot + structure tag element name.
There are certain characters which you cannot use in the names of structure types, structure
elements and structure tags. You will find the characters you must not include in a name
in the WinCC Information System at Working with projects > Non-authorized characters
Note
You must not create tags whose name starts with an '@'. Tags with an @ prefix are created
only by WinCC and PCS 7.
Remember that WinCC distinguishes between upper and lower case characters in a
configuration. If you change upper and lower case characters in a tag name, you must adapt
your configuration accordingly.

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See also
Tag Groups (Page170)
Internal Tags (Page166)
Process Tags (Page164)
Editing Tags (Page202)
Creating Structure Types (Page192)

2.3.2.5

Tag Groups

Definition
You can sort your tags into tag groups in Tag Management.
Create a tag group as directory under "Internal Tags" or under the connection to a channel
unit. Subgroups are not possible.

Usage
When creating a large number of tags in your project, you can combine them in groups
according to subject.
You can create, for example, a tag group for every picture in your project. You create the tags
you use in one of your pictures in the appropriate group.
In this way WinCC makes it easier for you to assign and retrieve tags.

Naming Conventions
The names of tag groups must be unique in the whole project. You must not use the same
name simultaneously for tags and tag groups. When tags and tag groups are created, WinCC
does not distinguish between upper and lower case characters in a name.
You must not use certain characters in the names of tag groups. You will find a list of characters
that are not permitted in a name in the WinCC Information System under "Working with
Projects" > "Disallowed Characters".
Note
Remember that WinCC distinguishes between upper and lower case characters in a
configuration. If you change upper and lower case characters in a tag name, you must adapt
your configuration accordingly.

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See also
How to Create a Tag Group (Page197)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
Internal Tags (Page166)
Process Tags (Page164)
Editing Tags (Page202)

2.3.3

Tag Selection Dialog

Working with the tag selection dialog

WinCC opens the tag selection dialog as soon as you want to attach a tag in an editor.
In Graphics Designer you can view the tag selection dialog continuously. Call the option View
> Toolbars... on the menu bar. Select the check box next to the Tags entry.
In the Global Script editor, open the tag selection dialog by choosing Edit > Tag Browser.
In the tag selection dialog, you can view either all tags in the project or navigate in the directory
structure. You select a highlighted tag by clicking OK.

Drag and drop

You can also connect a tag to an object or object attribute by means of drag and drop. There
are two locations where you can drop the tag:

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Above an object in the picture
Above an attribute in the Object Properties dialog, Properties tab
Store the tag above an attribute in the Object Properties dialog, Properties tab. This ensures
that this attribute is dynamized by the tag.
The attribute to be dynamized is specified in the case of objects which have a simplified
configuration dialog. The table shows the objects and the dynamized attribute:
Object

Attribute

I/O Field

Output value

Bar

Process driver connection

Status display

Current status

Text list

Output value

Check box

Selected fields

Option button

Selected fields

Slider object

Process driver connection

Filter
Using the filter function, you can reduce the selected number of tags or symbols so as to search
more efficiently.
When searching, you can use the placeholders * and ?. You can only use alphanumeric
characters when searching for names. WinCC saves the last 20 search criteria you entered.

Example
The following internal tags have been created in WinCC, for example: var1; var2; var3; smv2
and apm1. As a search criterion, enter a* and exit the filter function with the <TAB> key. WinCC
then shows all the tags whose name starts with a. In this case, the tag 'apm1' in the 'List of all
Tags' folder.
Note
The search operation in the tag selection dialog can take some time when there is a large
number of tags. Searching lasts about one minute with 15,000 tags.
It is sensible to arrive at a preselection in the tag selection dialog by means of the filter.

Data Source
This function is available when you are working with WinCC integrated in STEP 7.
In this box you can select the data source from which you would like to attach a tag.

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'WinCC Tags' as data source

WinCC display all configured internal tags and process tags. You can create new tags by
means of the Create a New Tag function. You can edit existing WinCC tags with the Edit Tag
function.
Note
In certain situations the tag selection dialog sets a filter to the data type of the tag.

'ES Tags' as data source

WinCC displays all PCS 7 process tags. PCS7 process tags are all operable and visible CFC
and SFC modules which were configured in the PCS 7 Engineering System. CFC stands for
Continuous Function Chart. SFC stands for Sequential Function Chart. You can update the
attributes of the display tag by operating the Update ES Tags button. This is necessary only
when an attribute is modified in the PCS 7 Engineering System while the tag selection dialog
is open. Attributes are items such as name, type or comment relating to a process tag.
Further information on this is available in the Chapter Integration in the SIMATIC Manager and
in the Process Control System PCS7 Operator Station configuration manual.

Update ES Tags button

The

button is available to you after selecting the ES tags data source.

You can use this button to update the CFC/SFC connections. CFC/SFC stands for Continuous
Function Chart/Sequential Function Chart. When you extend STEP 7 connections, you can
update the corresponding engineering station with this function.

'STEP7 Symbols' as data source

WinCC displays all the inputs, outputs, and bit memories in the STEP 7 symbol list and all the
global data blocks. The symbol lists and the data blocks are created in SIMATIC Manager. In
this case, data blocks themselves cannot be mapped. Only the parameters of the prevailing
data block displayed in the data window can be mapped.

Transfer Data button

The

button is available to you after selecting the STEP 7 Symbols data source.

The Transfer Data function is used by WinCC to apply the selected symbols or parameters of
data blocks to the WinCC database.

See also
Creating Tags (Page188)
Tag management (Page159)

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2.3.4

Communication Driver

Establishing Communication
A communication driver is used for communication by WinCC with the connected automation
system. You will find the communication drivers supported by WinCC in the WinCC Information
System at Communication.
The documentation on the different channels contains detailed information about creating
channel units and connections.

Licensing of Communication Drivers

If you wish to use a communication driver, you must install the corresponding license on the
computer.

Deleting Communication Driver

When you delete a communication driver, WinCC automatically deletes all tags created for
this communication driver. Should you still require tags, move these tags to a different
communication driver. To do this, use the commands Cut and Paste. After moving them, check
the addresses of the moved tags.
Note
If a communication driver was created in WinCC using SIMATIC Manager with Compile OS,
you cannot delete the communication driver in WinCC Explorer.

See also
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)

2.4

Tag Types

2.4.1

Tag Types

Introduction
When you create a tag, you assign one of the possible data types to the tag.
This data type depends on the type of data for which you would like to use the tag.

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Note
If you modify the data type of an existing process tag, the previously defined tag address is
deleted. This reason for this is that the PLC address changes when the data type is modified.

Adapting Format
The data type of a tag in WinCC can differ from the data type used in the automation system.
You can then set that WinCC converts the data type of a tag for transfer to the automation
system.
Tag types with type conversion

Tag types without type conversion

Signed 8-bit value

Text reference

Unsigned 8-bit value

Binary Tags

Signed 16-bit value

Text tag, 8-bit character set

Unsigned 16-bit value

Text tag, 16-bit character set

Signed 32-bit value

Raw data type

Unsigned 32-bit value

Structure types

Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754

Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754

You will find detailed information about type conversion in the WinCC Information System at
Communication > Process Communication > WinCC Process Communication > External Tags.

See also
Signed 8-bit value (Page177)
Tags (Page163)
Raw Data Tag (Page187)
Text Tag 8-Bit Character Set and Text Tag 16-Bit Character Set (Page187)
Floating-Point Number 64-Bit IEEE 754 (Page185)
Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754 (Page184)
Unsigned 32-bit value (Page183)
Signed 32-bit value (Page181)
Unsigned 16-bit value (Page180)
Signed 16-bit value (Page179)
Unsigned 8-bit value (Page178)
Binary Tags (Page176)
Text Reference (Page176)

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2.4.2

Text Reference

Definition
With tags having the Text reference data type, you refer to an entry in the WinCC Text Library.
You can only configure text references as internal tags.
You use text references, for example, when you want to display different blocks of text
alternately. You assign the corresponding text ID of the entry in the Text Library to the tag.

Creating a Text Reference

You create a tag with the Text reference data type as an internal tag.
In the Tag Properties dialog, select the Start Value check box on the Limits/Reporting tab.
Enter the text ID from the Text Library as the start value.
Note
In a multi-user system, WinCC uses for text output the language of the computer on which
the text reference was created.

Adapting Format
Type conversion does not take place for the Text Reference data type.

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.3

Binary Tags

Definition
The "Binary tag" data type corresponds to a bit. A binary tag can assume the values TRUE or
"0" and FALSE or "1".
The binary tag is stored as a byte on the system.
Note
Some communication drivers cannot transfer single bits. The use of binary tags can result in
degraded performance with these communication drivers. Take note of the help for the
different communication drivers in the WinCC Information System at Communication.

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Bit
The "Binary Tag" data type is also referred to as "Bit".

Adapting format
For "Binary Tag" data type, the format cannot be adapted.

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.4

Signed 8-bit value

Definition
The "Signed 8-bit value" data type is one byte long and is signed (plus or minus).

Char/Signed Byte
The "Signed 8-bit value" data type is also referred to as "Char" or "Signed byte".

Adapting Format
If you create a new tag with the "Signed 8-bit value" data type, the "Type Conversion" box will
display the CharToSignedByte by default. The range of numbers is -128 to +127.
The following type conversions are possible for the "Signed 8-bit value" data type:
Adapting format

Number range

CharToSignedByte

-128...+127
(no conversion)

CharToUnsignedByte

0...127

CharToUnsignedWord

0...127

CharToUnsignedDword

0...127

CharToSignedWord

-128...+127

CharToSignedDword

-128...+127

CharToMSBByte

-128...+127

CharToMSBWord

-128...+127

CharToMSBDword

-128...+127

CharToBCDByte

0...99

CharToBCDWord

0...127

CharToBCDDword

0...127

CharToSignedBCDByte

-9...+9

CharToSignedBCDWord

-128...+127

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Adapting format

Number range

CharToSignedBCDDword

-128...+127

CharToExtSignedBCDByte

-79...+79

CharToExtSignedBCDWord

-128...+127

CharToExtSignedBCDDword

-128...+127

CharToAikenByte

0...99

CharToAikenWord

0...127

CharToAikenDword

0...127

CharToSignedAikenByte

-9...+9

CharToSignedAikenWord

-128...+127

CharToSignedAikenDword

-128...+127

CharToExcessByte

0...99

CharToExcessWord

0...127

CharToExcessDword

0...127

CharToSignedExcessByte

-9...+9

CharToSignedExcessWord

-128...+127

CharToSignedExcessDword

-128...+127

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.5

Unsigned 8-bit value

Definition
The "Unsigned 8-bit value" data type is one byte long and is not signed.

Byte/Unsigned Byte
The "Unsigned 8-bit value" data type is also referred to as "byte" or "unsigned byte".

Adapting Format
If you create a new tag with the "Unsigned 8-bit value" data type, the Type Conversion box
will display the ByteToUnsignedByte by default. The range of numbers is 0 to 255.
The following type conversions are possible for the "Unsigned 8-bit value" data type:

178

Adapting format

Number range

ByteToUnsignedByte

0...255
(no conversion)

ByteToUnsignedWord

0...255

ByteToUnsignedDword

0...255

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Adapting format

Number range

ByteToSignedByte

0...127

ByteToSignedWord

0...255

ByteToSignedDword

0...255

ByteToBCDByte

0...99

ByteToBCDWord

0...255

ByteToBCDDword

0...255

ByteToAikenByte

0...99

ByteToAikenWord

0...255

ByteToAikenDword

0...255

ByteToExcessByte

0...99

ByteToExcessWord

0...255

ByteToExcessDword

0...255

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.6

Signed 16-bit value

Definition
The "Signed 16-bit value" data type is two bytes long and is signed (plus or minus).

Short/Signed Word
The "Signed 16-bit value" data type is also referred to as "short" or "signed word".

Adapting Format
If you create a new tag with the "Signed 16-bit value" data type, the Type Conversion box will
display the ShortToSignedWord by default. The range of numbers is -32768 to +32767.
The following type conversions are possible for the "Signed 16-bit value" data type:
Adapting format

Number range

ShortToSignedWord

-32768...+32767
(no conversion)

ShortToUnsignedByte

0...255

ShortToUnsignedWord

0...32767

ShortToUnsignedDword

0...32767

ShortToSignedByte

-128...+127

ShortToSignedDword

-32768...+32767

ShortToMSBByte

-127...+127

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Adapting format

Number range

ShortToMSBWord

-32767...+32767

ShortToMSBDword

-32768...+32767

ShortToBCDByte

0...99

ShortToBCDWord

0...9999

ShortToBCDDword

0...32767

ShortToSignedBCDByte

-9...+9

ShortToSignedBCDWord

-999...+999

ShortToSignedBCDDword

-32768...+32767

ShortToExtSignedBCDByte

-79...+79

ShortToExtSignedBCDWord

-7999...+7999

ShortToExtSignedBCDDword

-32768...+32767

ShortToAikenByte

0...99

ShortToAikenWord

0...9999

ShortToAikenDword

0...32767

ShortToSignedAikenByte

-9...+9

ShortToSignedAikenWord

-999...+999

ShortToSignedAikenDword

-32768...+32767

ShortToExcessByte

0...99

ShortToExcessWord

0...9999

ShortToExcessDword

0...32767

ShortToSignedExcessByte

-9...+9

ShortToSignedExcessWord

-999...+999

ShortToSignedExcessDword

-32768...+32767

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.7

Unsigned 16-bit value

Definition
The "Unsigned 16-bit value" data type is two bytes long and is not signed.

Word/Unsigned Word
The "Unsigned 16-bit value" data type is also referred to as "word" or "unsigned word".

Adapting Format
If you create a new tag with the "Unsigned 16-bit value" data type, the Type Conversion box
will display the WordToUnsignedWord by default. The range of numbers is 0 to 65535.

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The following type conversions are possible for the "Unsigned 16-bit value" data type:
Adapting format

Number range

WordToUnsignedWord

0...65535
(no conversion)

WordToUnsignedByte

0...255

WordToUnsignedDword

0...65535

WordToSignedByte

0...127

WordToSignedWord

0...32767

WordToSignedDword

0...65535

WordToBCDByte

0...99

WordToBCDWord

0...9999

WordToBCDDword

0...65535

WordToAikenByte

0...99

WordToAikenWord

0...9999

WordToAikenDword

0...65535

WordToExcessByte

0...99

WordToExcessWord

0...9999

WordToExcessDword

0...65535

WordToSimaticCounter

0...999

WordToSimaticBCDCounter

0...999

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.8

Signed 32-bit value

Definition
The "Signed 32-bit value" data type is four bytes long and is signed (plus or minus).

Long / Signed Dword

The "Signed 32-bit value" data type is also referred to as "long" or "signed dword".

Adapting Format
If you create a new tag with the "Signed 32-bit value" data type, the Type Conversion box will
display the LongToSignedDword by default. The range of numbers is -2147483647 to
+2147483647.
The following type conversions are possible for the "Signed 32-bit value" data type:

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Adapting format

Number range

LongToSignedDword

-2147483647...+2147483647
(no conversion)

LongToUnsignedByte

0...255

LongToUnsignedWord

0...65535

LongToUnsignedDword

0...2147483647

LongToSignedByte

-128...+127

LongToSignedWord

-32768...+32767

LongToMSBByte

-127...+127

LongToMSBWord

-32767...+32767

LongToMSBDword

-2147483647...+2147483647

LongToBCDByte

0...99

LongToBCDWord

0...9999

LongToBCDDword

0...99999999

LongToSignedBCDByte

-9...+9

LongToSignedBCDWord

-999...+999

LongToSignedBCDDword

-9999999...+9999999

LongToExtSignedBCDByte

-79..+79

LongToExtSignedBCDWord

-7999...+7999

LongToExtSignedBCDDword

-79999999...+79999999

LongToAikenByte

0...99

LongToAikenWord

0...9999

LongToAikenDword

0...99999999

LongToSignedAikenByte

-9...+9

LongToSignedAikenWord

-999...+999

LongToSignedAikenDword

-9999999...+9999999

LongToExcessByte

0...99

LongToExcessWord

0...9999

LongToExcessDword

0...99999999

LongToSignedExcessByte

-9...+9

LongToSignedExcessWord

-999...+999

LongToSignedExcessDword

-9999999...+9999999

LongToSimaticTimer

10...9990000

LongToSimaticBCDTimer

10...9990000

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

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2.4.9

Unsigned 32-bit value

Definition
The "Unsigned 32-bit value" data type is four bytes long and is not signed.

Dword / Unsigned Dword

The "Unsigned 32-bit value" data type is also referred to as "dword" or "unsigned dword".

Adapting Format
If you create a new tag with the "Unsigned 32-bit value" data type, the Type Conversion box
will display the DwordToUnsignedDword by default. The range of numbers is 0 to 4294967295.
The following type conversions are possible for the "Unsigned 32-bit value" data type:
Adapting format

Number range

DwordToUnsignedDword

0...4294967295
(no conversion)

DwordToUnsignedByte

0...255

DwordToUnsignedWord

0...65535

DwordToSignedByte

0...127

DwordToSignedWord

0...32767

DwordToSignedDword

0...2147483647

DwordToBCDByte

0...99

DwordToBCDWord

0...9999

DwordToBCDDword

0...99999999

DwordToAikenByte

0...99

DwordToAikenWord

0...9999

DwordToAikenDword

0...99999999

DwordToExcessByte

0...99

DwordToExcessWord

0...9999

DwordToExcessDword

0...99999999

DwordToSimaticTimer

10...9990000

DwordToSimaticBCDTimer

10...9990000

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

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2.4.10

Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754

Definition
The "floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754" data type is four bytes long and is signed (plus or
minus).

Float
The "floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754" data tape is also referred to as "float".

Adapting format
If you create a new tag with the "Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754" data type, the Type
Conversion box will display the FloatToFloat by default. The number range is +-3.402823e+38.
Note
For every FloatTo...Dword type conversion, only the first seven places are considered. The
float data type only allows seven digits. If you have an S7 connection, the range of numbers
for the FloatToFloat type conversion is +-3.402823e+38.
The following type conversions are possible for the "floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754"
data type:

184

Adapting format

Number range

FloatToFloat

+-3.402823e+38
(no conversion)

FloatToUnsignedByte

0...255

FloatToUnsignedWord

0...65535

FloatToUnsignedDword

0 to 4.294967e+09

FloatToSignedByte

-128...+127

FloatToSignedWord

-32768...+32767

FloatToSignedDword

-2.147483e+09 to +2.147483e+09

FloatToDouble

+-3.402823e+38

FloatToMSBByte

-127...+127

FloatToMSBWord

-32767...+32767

FloatToMSBDword

-2.147483e+09 to +2.147483e+09

FloatToBCDByte

0...99

FloatToBCDWord

0...9999

FloatToBCDDword

0 to 9.999999e+07

FloatToSignedBCDByte

-9...+9

FloatToSignedBCDWord

-999...+999

FloatToSignedBCDDword

-9999999...+9999999

FloatToExtSignedBCDByte

-79...+79

FloatToExtSignedBCDWord

-7999...+7999

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Adapting format

Number range

FloatToExtSignedBCDDword

-7.999999e+07 to +7.999999e+07

FloatToAikenByte

0...99

FloatToAikenWord

0...9999

FloatToAikenDword

0 to 9.999999e+07

FloatToSignedAikenByte

-9...+9

FloatToSignedAikenWord

-999...+999

FloatToSignedAikenDword

-9999999...+9999999

FloatToExcessByte

0...99

FloatToExcessWord

0...9999

FloatToExcessDword

0 to 9.999999e+07

FloatToSignedExcessByte

-9...+9

FloatToSignedExcessWord

-999...+999

FloatToSignedExcessDword

-9999999...+9999999

FloatToS5Timer

10...9990000

FloatToS5Float

+-1.701411e+38

FloatToSimaticTimer

10...9990000

FloatToSimaticBCDTimer

10...9990000

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.11

Floating-Point Number 64-Bit IEEE 754

Definition
The "Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754" data type is eight bytes long and is signed (plus
or minus).

Double
The "Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754" data type is also referred to as "Double".

Type conversion
If you create a new tag with the "Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754" data type, the "Type
Conversion" box will display the "DoubleToDouble" by default. The number range is
+-1.79769313486231e+308.

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Note
For every "DoubleToFloat" type conversion, only the first seven places are considered. The
float data type only allows seven digits.
The following type conversions are possible for the "Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754"
data type:

186

Type conversion

Number range

DoubleToDouble

+-1.79769313486231e+308
(no conversion)

DoubleToUnsignedByte

0...255

DoubleToUnsignedWord

0...65535

DoubleToUnsignedDword

0...4294967295

DoubleToSignedByte

-128...+127

DoubleToSignedWord

-32768...+32767

DoubleToSignedDword

-2147483647...+2147483647

DoubleToFloat

+-3.402823e+38

DoubleToMSBByte

-127...+127

DoubleToMSBWord

-32767...+32767

DoubleToMSBDword

-2147483647...+2147483647

DoubleToBCDByte

0...99

DoubleToBCDWord

0...9999

DoubleToBCDDword

0...99999999

DoubleToSignedBCDByte

-9...+9

DoubleToSignedBCDWord

-999...+999

DoubleToSignedBCDDword

-9999999...+9999999

DoubleToExtSignedBCDByte

-79...+79

DoubleToExtSignedBCDWord

-7999...+7999

DoubleToExtSignedBCDDword

-79999999...+79999999

DoubleToAikenByte

0...99

DoubleToAikenWord

0...9999

DoubleToAikenDword

0...99999999

DoubleToSignedAikenByte

-9...+9

DoubleToSignedAikenWord

-999...+999

DoubleToSignedAikenDword

-9999999...+9999999

DoubleToExcessByte

0...99

DoubleToExcessWord

0...9999

DoubleToExcessDword

0...99999999

DoubleToSignedExcessByte

-9...+9

DoubleToSignedExcessWord

-999...+999

DoubleToSignedExcessDword

-9999999...+9999999

DoubleToS5Timer

10...9990000

DoubleToS5Float

+-1.701411e+38

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Type conversion

Number range

DoubleToSimaticTimer

10...9990000

DoubleToSimaticBCDTimer

10...9990000

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.12

Text Tag 8-Bit Character Set and Text Tag 16-Bit Character Set

Definition
Text tags are distinguished by the character set that has to be displayed:
With the "text tag 8-bit character set" data type, each of the characters that has to be
displayed in this tag is one byte long. With the 8-bit character set, the ASCII character set
can be displayed for example.
With the "text tag 16-bit character set" data type, each of the characters that has to be
displayed in this tag is two bytes long. You require a tag of this type to display the Unicode
character set, for example.

Process Tag with the Text Tag Data Type

For process tags with the Text tag 8-bit character set and Text tag 16-bit character set data
types, you must specify the length of the text tags. A text tag that is required to accommodate
10 characters later must be ten long for the "8-bit character set" and 20 long for the "16-bit
character set".

Adapting Format
There is no type conversion for the "text tag 8-bit character set" and "text tag 16-bit character
set" data types.

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.4.13

Raw Data Tag

Definition
External and internal Raw Data Type tags can be created in WinCC's Tag Management. The
format and the length of a raw data tag are not fixed. Its length can be in the range from 1 and
65535 bytes. It is either defined by the user or results from a specific application.

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The contents of a raw data tag are not fixed. Only senders and receivers can interpret the
contents of a raw data tag. They are not interpreted by WinCC.
Note
A raw data tag cannot be displayed within Graphics Designer.

Potential Applications within WinCC

Raw data tags can be used in the following modules within WinCC:
Alarm Logging: For data exchange with the message blocks on the automation system with
message and acknowledgement processing of the message system.
Global Scripts: In scripts for data exchange using the Get/SetTagRaw functions.
Tag Logging: For process controlled archiving with process controlled tags in the process
value archive.
User Archives: For transferring jobs, data, processing acknowledgements between WinCC
and the automation systems.

Address Properties
In the case of external Raw Data tags the Address Properties dialog is not identical for all
communication drivers, since the parameters of the tag address and the supported raw data
tag types depend on the communication driver being used.

Adapting Format
Type conversion is not possible in WinCC for the raw data type.

See also
Tag Types (Page174)

2.5

Creating Tags

2.5.1

Creating Tags

Introduction
This chapter describes how you create tags and structures:
Process tags
Internal tags

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Structure types
Tag groups
You will find detailed instructions for type conversion in the WinCC Information System at
Communication > Process Communication > WinCC Process Communication > External Tags.

See also
How to Define Linear Scaling (Page200)
How to Define a Substitute Value (Page199)
How to Set Limit Values (Page198)
How to Create a Tag Group (Page197)
Creating Structure Types (Page192)
Creating Internal Tags (Page190)
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)

2.5.2

How to Create a Process Tag

Introduction
You use process tags for communication between WinCC and the automation system.
You can create process tags in tag groups, too, or move them to tag groups once they have
been created.
Note
Before creating a process tag, you must install a communication driver and create at least a
connection.

Procedure
1. In Tag Management of WinCC Explorer, open the communication driver for which you would
like to create a process tag.
2. Select the channel unit you require and the corresponding connection.
3. Choose the "New Tag" option from the shortcut menu for the connection. The "Tag
Properties" dialog is opened.
4. At "Name" on the General tab, enter a name for the tag. In doing so, pay due consideration
to the name conventions in the chapter "Tag Management and Tags" > "Tags".
5. Set the "raw data type" data type in the "Data type" field.
6. If necessary, modify the set type conversion and set Linear Scaling if required.

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7. Set the address of the tag. To do this, click the "Select" button. The "Address Properties"
dialog box opens. After entering the address, close the dialog box by clicking "OK".
The address properties depend on the channel unit you selected. You will find more
information on addressing a process tag in the WinCC Information System under
"Communication" in the respective communication driver.
8. On the Limits/Reporting tab, set limit values, the start value and substitute value as
necessary.
A start value is set when no process value is available as the project is activated.
9. Click "OK" to close the dialog box.

Note
If a starting value has been configured, the starting value is returned at the first reading of
the used process tags, even if a process value already exists. This accelerates the opening
of the picture when Runtime is started and the picture is changed. To bypass this process,
you need to run a direct read call using the corresponding functions in VBS and C.
If you want to set both a start value and a substitute value, check the settings in the "Use
substitute value" segment.

Addressing Process Tags

You can also address a process tag later.
Select the tag in the tag management and open "Addressing..." on the pop-up menu. The
Address Properties menu opens. Set the address of the tag.
You will find more information on addressing a process tag in the WinCC Information System
under "Communication" in the respective communication driver.

See also
How to Create a Tag Group (Page197)
How to Define Linear Scaling (Page200)
How to Define a Substitute Value (Page199)
How to Set Limit Values (Page198)
Tags (Page163)

2.5.3

Creating Internal Tags

Introduction
You use internal tags to transfer data within your project.

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You can create internal tags in tag groups, too, or move them to tag groups once they have
been created.
Note
Updates on clients without local project
Usually, the "Project-wide update" or "Computer-local update" settings do not have any effect.
Internal tags which you create on a server are always updated for the whole project. Internal
tags which you create on a WinCC Client are always updated for the local computer.
The setting is only relevant if you configure a client without a local project.

Procedure
1. Open the "Internal" Tags directory in the Tag Management of WinCC Explorer.
2. Select the "New Tag" entry in the shortcut menu of the connection. The "Tag Properties"
dialog opens.
3. Enter the tag name in the "Name" field of the General tab. Observe the naming conventions
defined in the "Tag Management and Tags" > "Tags" chapter.
4. Set the data type.
5. On the Limits/Reporting tab, set limit values, limit values and the start value as necessary.
6. Activate the "Runtime persistency" option to retain the value of the internal tag on closing
Runtime.
The value saved is used as start value for the restart of Runtime. The start value configured
is only used at the first start of Runtime and after the data type was changed.
7. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

See also
How to Define Linear Scaling (Page200)
How to Define a Substitute Value (Page199)
How to Set Limit Values (Page198)
How to Create a Tag Group (Page197)
Tags (Page163)

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2.5.4

Creating Structure Types

2.5.4.1

Creating Structure Types

Introduction
This chapter describes how to
Create a structure type and the associated elements
Use the structure types when creating tags

See also
Creating Internal Tags (Page190)
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags (Page202)
How to Rename Tags (Page204)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
How to Use Structure Types (Page195)
How to Create a Structure Tag (Page192)

2.5.4.2

How to Create a Structure Tag

Introduction
You create structure types external to Tag Management at "Structure types".
When creating a structure type, create the different structure elements. You can assign the
created structure type as data type when creating tags and thereby create all tags defined in
the structure type.

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Procedure
1. Click in WinCC Explorer on "Structure types" and select the option "New Structure Type..."
from the shortcut menu. The "Structure Properties" dialog box opens.

2. Change the standard name "NewStructure" and assign the structure name with a useful
name. To do this mark the element and select "Rename" on the pop-up menu. Pay due
consideration to the name conventions when doing so.
3. Click the "New Element" button. WinCC creates a new element with the tag type "Short"
and the name "New Tag". Select the element and choose the "Rename" option from the
shortcut menu. Enter a useful name instead of "New Tag". Pay due consideration to the
name conventions when doing so.
4. Set whether the element creates an internal tag or a process tag. The process tag is termed
an "external tag" in the dialog box. Choose the required data type on the shortcut menu of
the structure element.
5. Check the offset value at Process tags in the "AS" segment. This value specifies the spacing
of the structure element from the start address in bytes. The offset value of a new or copied
element is incremented automatically. Adjust the settings as necessary.
6. For process tags, set Linear scaling as necessary.

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7. For process tags of data type "Text8" and "Text16", set the number of bytes in the "Length"
field.
8. Change the given type conversion for process tags as necessary.
You can select a channel unit from the "Use additional Format Adaptations from" selection
box. WinCC then also features the type conversions that are supported by that channel
unit.
9. Create the next element. Click the "New Element" button.
If at least one structure is available, WinCC then copies the currently operated element with
its properties when creating a new element using the New Element button. WinCC adds a
number to the element name or rather increments it.
Repeat the process till you have inserted all the required elements.
10.Click OK to close the dialog.
Note
Perform all settings before applying the structure type for creating tags. You can then only
modify the properties of the created structure elements such as Scaling, Address and Limits/
Reporting.
To modify the properties of a structure type, you must first delete all associated structure tags.

Data Types
The data type for the tag automatically precedes the name of a structure element in WinCC.
This data type corresponds to a certain tag type, e.g. the BYTE data type, the tag type Unsigned
8 Bit Value.
If you want to address a structure tag with a script, then you have to use the C function for this
data type.
The following designations are used:

194

Tag type

Data type

Associated C function

Binary tag

BIT

GetTagBit

Signed 8-bit value

CHAR

GetTagSByte

Unsigned 8-bit value

BYTE

GetTagByte

Signed 16-bit value

SHORT

GetTagSWord

Unsigned 16-bit value

WORD

GetTagWord

Signed 32-bit value

LONG

GetTagSDWord

Unsigned 32-bit value

DWORD

GetTagDWord

Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754

FLOAT

GetTagFloat

Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754

DOUBLE

GetTagDouble

Text tag, 8-bit font

TEXT8

GetTagChar

Text tag, 16-bit font

TEXT16

GetTagChar

Text reference (internal tags only)

TEXTREF

GetTagChar

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Further information can be found in the chapter "Tag Types" and in the description of the
internal functions for ANSI-C.
Note
BIT tags are always one word long in their structure. Therefore, bit positions 0 to 15 are the
only positions possible. This length of two bytes has to be taken into account for the offset
value of the following element.

See also
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)
Tag Types (Page174)
Creating Internal Tags (Page190)
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags (Page202)
How to Rename Tags (Page204)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
How to Use Structure Types (Page195)

2.5.4.3

How to Use Structure Types

Introduction
Using structure types, you create several tags simultaneously as structure types in just one
action. You can create internal tags and process tags in doing so.
When configuring in the editors, structure tags do not differ from other tags.

Creating Internal Tags

When creating an internal tag, the structure types available to you are those that do not contain
structure elements for process tags.
Structure types, in which structure elements are defined for process tags, can only be used
when you create tags under the connection of a channel unit.
Note
You can create structure tags with a structure type, in which only structure elements for
internal tags are defined, under the connection of a channel unit. The structure instance is
displayed under the structure types, while the associated structure tags are displayed under
internal tags. No entry appears under the connection in the data window. If you try to delete
a connection, a message appears however that there are still elements which will also be
deleted. If this message is confirmed, not only the connection but also the structure instance
and the structure tags will be deleted.

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Procedure
1. In the tag management select the position at which you want to create the tag.
2. Choose the New Tag option from the shortcut menu. The Tag Properties dialog opens.
3. Choose the required structure type in the Data type selection box.
4. Enter a name. This name is used as a tag prefix when creating the tag. WinCC creates a
structure instance under this name. The structure instance is located in WinCC Explorer at
Structure Types under the structure type being used.
5. Confirm with OK.
6. For every element created in the structure type, WinCC generates structure tag with the
appropriate properties. The name of the structure tag is composed of the name of the
structure instance and the name of the structure element, separated by a dot.
Note
Perform all settings before applying the structure type for creating tags. You can then modify
the properties of the created structure tags later.
To modify the properties of a structure type, you must first delete all associated structure tags.

Update
If you create internal structure tags in a multi-user project, then you can use the Project-wide
update or Computer-local update setting. This setting is only then relevant if you do not create
an individual client project on the WinCC clients.
Define the required update with the created structure tags. The setting in the structure instance
is not transferred when creating the associated structure tag.

See also
Creating Internal Tags (Page190)
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags (Page202)
How to Rename Tags (Page204)
Structure Types and Structure Tags (Page167)
How to Create a Structure Tag (Page192)

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2.5.5

How to Create a Tag Group

Introduction
You create tag groups in Tag Management. You create tag groups for internal tags directly in
the Internal Tags directory. You create tag groups for process tags in the communication driver
directory under the connection.
You can only create tags in a tag group. A tag group cannot contain another tag group.

Procedure
1. Navigate in Tag Management to the position at which you wish to create the tag group.
2. Choose the New Group option from the shortcut menu for the connection. The Tag Group
Properties dialog opens.
3. At Name on the General tab, enter a meaningful name. In doing so, pay due consideration
to the name conventions in the chapter Tag Management and Tags > Tag Groups.
4. Click the OK button to conclude the dialog.

See also
Creating Internal Tags (Page190)
How to Create a Process Tag (Page189)
Tag Groups (Page170)

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2.5.6

How to Set Limit Values

Introduction
When using limit values, you prevent the value of a tag from being outside the defined limits.

You can set an upper limit value and a lower limit value. If, for example, a process value
exceeds the upper limit value, WinCC grays out the value and does not process it any more.
If you define a substitute value, WinCC sets the substitute value in the event of the limit being
violated.

Procedure
1. Select a process tag and open the "Tag Properties" dialog box.
2. On the Limits/Reporting tab, select the "Upper limit" check box and enter the desired value.
3. On the Limits/Reporting tab, select the "Lower limit" check box and enter the desired value.
4. Define a substitute value, if necessary, and activate the At Upper Limit or At Low Limit
check box.
5. Click OK to close the dialog.

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See also
How to Define Linear Scaling (Page200)
How to Define a Substitute Value (Page199)

2.5.7

How to Define a Substitute Value

Introduction
You can define a specific value as a substitute value for a tag.
In the "Use Substitute Value" segment you define when you want WinCC to use this substitute
value. The current process value is then not accepted from the automation system.

You can define a substitute value for the following cases:

As start value
WinCC sets the substitute value when the project is activated and there is no current process
value.
If a start value has already been defined, it is not possible to select "Replacement value as
start value".

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Upon connection errors

WinCC sets the substitute value when the connection to the automation system is disturbed
and there is no valid process value.

At upper limit
If you have set an upper limit for the tag, WinCC sets the substitute value as soon as the
process value exceeds this upper limit.

At lower limit
If you have set a lower limit for the tag, WinCC sets the substitute value as soon as the process
value falls below this lower limit.

Procedure
1. Select a process tag and open the "Tag Properties" dialog box.
2. On the Limits/Reporting tab, select the "Substitute value" check box and enter the desired
value.
3. In the "Use Substitute Value" segment, select when you want WinCC to use this substitute
value in the tag.
4. Click OK to close the dialog.
Note
If you have set an upper or lower limit in an input/output field, you cannot enter any value
outside these limits.
WinCC ignores incorrect entries and therefore does not set a substitute value. The substitute
value is only set by WinCC when an incorrect process value is read.

See also
How to Define Linear Scaling (Page200)
How to Set Limit Values (Page198)

2.5.8

How to Define Linear Scaling

Introduction
When using linear scaling, you can map values of process tags in WinCC to any second range
of values.
Linear scaling is only available for process tags. Internal tags cannot be scaled.

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Usage
You use linear scaling when you want to display a process value differently from how it was
supplied by the automation system. The process value itself is not modified.
This can be practical if you want to use the process value as a percentage or for calculations.

Example
A temperature sensor measures the resistance in the system and transfers the value in ohms.
Certain resistance values correspond to specific temperatures. When using linear scaling, you
can automatically convert the resistance values to the temperature scale. This ensures that
the measured resistance is immediately displayed as a temperature in the project.
In the Tag Properties dialog, this resistance value corresponds to the details at Process value
range. The temperature corresponds to the details at Tag value range.

Procedure
1. Select a process tag and open the Tag Properties dialog.
2. On the General tab, select the Linear scaling check box.
3. In the Process Value Range segment, enter as Value 1 the value from which linear scaling
should apply. Enter for example "0". In the Process Value Range segment, enter as Value
2 the value to which linear scaling should apply. Enter for example "100".
4. In the Tag Value Range segment, enter as Value 1 the value to which Value1 of the process
should correspond. Enter for example value "0". Enter as Value 2 a value which should
correspond to value2 of the process. Enter for example value "10". This ensures that the
process values between 0 and 100 in the project are only displayed in increments of ten
on a scale from 0 to 10.
5. Click the OK button to conclude the dialog.
Note
The values entered for scaling do not restrict the display. If you scale the values from 0 to
100, values greater than 100 or less than 0 will still be displayed. You configure necessary
limits on the Limits/Reporting tab.

See also
How to Define a Substitute Value (Page199)
How to Set Limit Values (Page198)

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2.6

Editing Tags

2.6.1

Editing Tags

Introduction
This chapter informs you of the possibilities of editing tags, tag groups and structure types:
Copy
Move
Delete
Rename
Edit in Runtime
Call status information
Note
If a tag was created in WinCC using SIMATIC Manager with Translate OS, you cannot edit
the tag in WinCC Explorer.

See also
Creating Tags (Page188)
Status Information of Tags in Runtime (Page207)
Editing Tags in Runtime (Page206)
How to Rename Tags (Page204)
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags (Page202)

2.6.2

Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags

Introduction
The shortcut menu and the toolbar can be used to perform the following operations on tags,
tag groups and structure types:
Cut
Copy
Paste
Delete

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There is no difference in the ways in which tags, tag groups and structure types behave.
You can select and edit several objects at a time in each case.

Copying Tags, Tag Groups and Structure Types

If, for example, you wish to configure several tags having the same properties, you can copy
an existing tag and paste it at the desired position. WinCC automatically increments the name
or adds a count to the name.
When you copy a tag group, WinCC automatically copies every tag contained in it.
Structure types can be copied separately. Structure tags and structure instances cannot be
copied separately but only while the associated structure type is being copied.

Examples
Original tag

Copied tag

VarOne

VarOne_1
VarOne_2

VarOne01

VarOne01_1
VarOne01_2

VarOne_01

VarOne_1
VarOne_2

VarOne_2
VarOne_3

VarOne_4
VarOne_5

VarOne_1
VarOne_3
VarOne_4
VarOne_7
(the values in between are not assigned)

VarOne_2
VarOne_5
VarOne_6
VarOne_8

Note
If a tag was created in WinCC using SIMATIC Manager with Compile OS, you cannot copy
or delete the tag in WinCC Explorer.

Moving Tags and Tag Groups

If you want to move tags or tag groups, cut the object and paste it at the position you want.
You can move tags
from one tag group to another tag group
from the connection of a communication driver to under the connection of another
communication driver
from Internal tags Tag Management to under a communication driver
from the connection of a communication driver to the Internal tags Tag Management

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Structure types, structure tags and structure instances cannot be moved.
Note
If you want to move a tag between the Internal tags Tag Management and a Variable or
between communication drivers, you must adjust the properties of the tag after doing so.

See also
Creating Tags (Page188)
Editing Tags in Runtime (Page206)
How to Rename Tags (Page204)

2.6.3

How to Rename Tags

Introduction
You can rename the following elements in Tag Management:
Tags
Tag groups
Structure types
Structure instance

Upper/Lower Case Text

WinCC does not distinguish between upper and lower case characters when renaming.

Example
If you would like to change a lower case character to an upper case character in the tag name,
you have to rename the tag in a roundabout manner. If tag "Varone" should really be called
"VarOne", change the name first to "Varne" or "1Varone". You can then change the name a
second time to "VarOne".
Note
Remember that WinCC distinguishes between upper and lower case characters in a
configuration. If you change upper and lower case characters in a tag name, you must adapt
your configuration accordingly.

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Procedure
1. Select a tag or a tag group.
2. Choose the Properties option from the shortcut menu.
The Tag Properties or the Tag Group Properties dialog opens.
3. Modify the name of the tag or tag group. Pay due consideration to the name conventions
when doing so.
4. Click the OK button to conclude the dialog.

Alternative Procedure
You can rename selected tags, tag groups and structure tags with F2.

Special Features with Structure Types

Structure types and structure elements
If there are structure tags for a structure type in your project, you cannot rename either the
structure type itself or the structure elements contained in it. You must first delete all associated
structure instances and structure tags. After renaming, you must create the necessary
structure tags again.

Structure instances and structure tags

You can only rename structure tags by changing the name of the structure instance. You
cannot change the second part of the name, since it is defined by the corresponding structure
element.
You can directly rename structure instances. You will find the structure instance in WinCC
Explorer at Structure Types at the structure type being used. When you rename a structure
instance, all associated structure tags are renamed automatically.

Example
A structure instance Furnace1 includes the structure tags Furnace1.pressure_actual,
Furnace1.pressure_set and Furnace1.temperature.
If you change the name of the structure instance to Furnace_one, the structure tags will be
changed to Furnace_one.pressure_actual, Furnace_one.pressure_set and
Furnace_one.temperature.
Note
If a tag was created in WinCC using SIMATIC Manager with Compile OS, you cannot edit
the tag in WinCC Explorer.

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See also
Creating Tags (Page188)
Editing Tags in Runtime (Page206)
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags (Page202)

2.6.4

Editing Tags in Runtime

Introduction
If you have activated a project, you can edit tags in parallel. There are a few constraints,
however.

Editing in Runtime
You can edit the following elements in Runtime:

Tags

Tag groups

Structure types

Structure
instances

Create

Address

---

---

Cut

Yes 2)

---

---

---

Copy

Yes2)

Paste

Delete

---

Modify properties

X3)

Rename

---

1) 2)

1) 2)

1)

Possible with external tags only if the channel being used supports the function. This currently
applies only to the SIMATIC S7 Protocol Suite channel.

1)

2)
3)

Does not apply to structure tags.

Not possible if structure tags are created.

Note
If a tag was created in WinCC using SIMATIC Manager with Compile OS, you cannot edit
the tag in WinCC Explorer.

See also
Creating Tags (Page188)
How to Rename Tags (Page204)
Copying, Moving and Deleting Tags (Page202)

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2.6.5

Status Information of Tags in Runtime

Introduction
In Runtime you can view information on connections and tags as a tooltip.

Displaying Status Information

In Tag Management of the activated project, change to the subdirectory you require.
If you point the mouse pointer to a connection or a tag in the data window, WinCC outputs the
status information as a tooltip.

Connections
The tooltip of a connection specifies:
The status of a connection

Tags
The tooltip of a tag specifies:
The status of a connection
The current process value of a tag
The quality code of a tag
The date on which a tag was last changed
This status display similarly applies to structure tags.

Quality Codes
Quality codes provided encoded information about the status and quality of a tag.
You will find a list of quality codes in the WinCC Information System at Communication >
Communication Diagnostics > Quality codes of tags.

See also
Tag management (Page159)

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3

Resources

3.1

Creating Process Pictures

Contents
The Graphics Designer is an editor for creating process pictures and making them dynamic.
This chapter will show you
how to use the "Graphics Designer" editor
how to create and edit process pictures
how to adapt the object properties to the requirements of your project
how to configure and use objects of the Object Palette and library
how to combine and configure objects of the Object Palette
how to integrate and configure controls in process pictures
how to test process pictures in Runtime
Chapter "Object properties" describes the properties of the objects of the Graphics Designer.
How to make process pictures dynamic is described in detail in the chapter "Making Process
Pictures Dynamic".

3.2

How to start the Graphics Designer

Introduction
The Graphics Designer can only be started for the project currently opened in the WinCC
Explorer.

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Requirements
A project must be opened.

Procedure
The Graphics Designer can be opened in the following ways:
Navigation window of WinCC Explorer
Select the command "Open" in the pop-up menu of the entry "Graphics Designer".
The Graphics Designer is started and a new picture is opened.
Data window of WinCC Explorer
Select the entry "Graphics Designer" in the navigation window. The pictures available in
the project are shown in the data window. Select the command "Open picture" in the popup menu of a picture.
The Graphics Designer is started and a new picture is opened.

See also
The pop-up menu in the Data Window (Page221)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)

3.3

The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer

3.3.1

The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer

Introduction
The Graphics Designer is an editor for creating process pictures and making them dynamic.
The Graphics Designer can only be started for the project currently opened in the WinCC

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Explorer. The WinCC Explorer can be used to display an overview of the pictures available in
the current project.

For working with the Graphics Designer, the WinCC Explorer offers the following functions and
configuration options:
Starting Graphics Designer
Opening, creating, renaming and deleting a picture
Properties of the picture
Configuring object libraries and ActiveX controls
Converting libraries and pictures from older program versions
Configuring and starting Runtime
You can call commands via the toolbar and the shortcut menus in the navigation and data
windows.
Note
If you rename a picture in the WinCC Explorer, you use a picture name once only. The
software does not check for whether the new name already exists. Duplicate picture names
can lead to conflicts in accessing via VBA or in making dynamic.

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Picture types in the Graphics Designer

The following types of pictures are differentiated:
Graphics Designer picture
Graphic Designer picture that is used in Runtime as the welcome screen
Faceplate type that can be inserted as an instance in a Graphic Designer picture
Graphic Designer picture with faceplate instances that are affected by type changes

You can find additional information on faceplate types in the section "Working with faceplate
types".

See also
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page218)
This is how to configure the object selection (Page216)
Displaying the properties of a picture file (Page224)
Displaying the configured dynamics of a process picture (Page226)
How to start the Graphics Designer (Page209)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
How to activate / deactivate Runtime (Page657)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
The pop-up menu in the Data Window (Page221)

3.3.2

The shortcut menu in the Navigation window

Introduction
A pop-up menu permits rapid access to frequently required functions. All of the functions listed
in the pop-up menu can also be started using the menu bar.
The navigation window is the left-hand window in the WinCC Explorer. The pop-up menu can
be used to modify the components of the opened project. The pop-up menu of the Graphics
Designer enables you to create new pictures, to integrate controls or to convert libraries.

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Requirements
A project must be opened.

Procedure
1. Right-click the entry "Graphics Designer".
The pop-up menu will be opened.
2. Select one of the entries from the pop-up menu.

Opening
The Graphics Designer is started. A new empty picture is created in the format PDL.

New picture
A new empty picture is created in the format PDL without opening the Graphics Designer. The
new picture is displayed in the data window of the WinCC Explorer and can be renamed using,
for example, the context-sensitive menu.

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Graphic OLL
The "Object OLL" dialog is opened. This dialog indicates which object libraries are available
for the Graphics Designer. The object selection can be configured for the current project. Other
object libraries can be imported, for example using the "Floppy disk" button. It is possible, for
example, to integrate other button or text objects and then use them in the project.
The "Object OLL" dialog is described in detail in the chapter "Configuring the object selection".

Selecting ActiveX controls

The "Select OCX Controls" dialog is opened. This dialog shows all the ActiveX Controls that
are registered in the operating system. A red check mark indicates those controls that are
shown in the Object Palette of the Graphics Designer, "Controls" tab dialog. Other controls
can be made available for the Graphics Designer. It is possible, for example, to integrate
Windows Controls or foreign controls and then use them in the project.
The "Select OCXen" dialog is described in detail in the chapter "Configuring control selection
of the object palette".

Converting pictures
Pictures created with an older version of the Graphics Designer have to be converted into the
current format.
If you select the entry "Convert pictures", a confirmation prompt appears. When you confirm
the conversion of the pictures with "OK", all of the project's pictures will be converted.
NOTICE
Conversion of pictures can not be undone.

Note
Converting pictures and libraries can take some time.

Converting the global library

Picture objects of the global library that have been imported from an older WinCC version are
converted into the current format.
With this option, all of the picture objects in the global library are converted.
NOTICE
The conversion starts immediately, as soon as you have selected the entry. No confirmation
prompt appears.
Conversion of the project library cannot be undone.

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Converting the project library

Picture objects of the project library that have been imported from an older WinCC version are
converted into the current format.
With this option, all of the picture objects in the project library are converted.
NOTICE
The conversion starts immediately, as soon as you have selected the entry. No confirmation
prompt appears.
Conversion of the project library cannot be undone.

Display Column Information

The Display Column Information entry in the data window of WinCC Explorer is used to show
the Information column. The entry in this column shows how the corresponding picture was
created.
Type of object creation

Entry in the Information column

Picture has been created using WinCC Explorer.

<No entry>

Picture has been created using WinCC Explorer

and then imported to SIMATIC Manager using the
Import WinCC Objects function.

Created by SIMATIC Manager

Picture has been created using SIMATIC Manager. Created by SIMATIC Manager

Do not display the Information column

You can hide this column in the data window using the "Do not display Information column"
entry.

Properties
An information dialog is opened, showing the general properties from WinCC as well as the
installed components.

Alternative Operation
All of the commands listed can also be started using the menu bar.

See also
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page218)
This is how to configure the object selection (Page216)
How to start the Graphics Designer (Page209)
The pop-up menu in the Data Window (Page221)
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)

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3.3.3

This is how to configure the object selection

Introduction
The object selection available in the Graphics Designer can be configured for the current
project. Other object libraries can be imported, for example using the "Floppy disk" button. It
is possible, for example, to integrate other button or text objects and then use them in the
project.

Requirements
A project must be opened.

Opening the "Object OLL" dialog

Right-click in the navigation window on the entry "Graphics Designer". Select the entry
"Graphic OLL" from the pop-up menu.
This "Object OLL" dialog indicates which object libraries are available for the Graphics
Designer. The availability of object libraries can be changed as required.

Available Graphic OLLs

All of the object libraries registered in WinCC in the left-hand area of the dialog.

Selected Graphic OLLs

The right-hand area of the dialog lists all the object libraries that have been selected for use
in the Graphics Designer.

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Arrow buttons
Use the arrow buttons to move object libraries in the relevant arrow direction.

"Floppy disk" button

Click the "Floppy disk" button to add other object libraries to WinCC.

Button "Preview"
Select the desired OLL file in one of the two upper areas. Click the "Preview" button to display
the content of the selected object library as a preview.

Configuring the Graphic OLL

In the Graphics Designer, only the object libraries listed in the area "Selected Graphic OLLs"
are available. Use the arrow buttons to move a selected object library in the relevant arrow
direction. You can also select a number of OLL files if you click the desired files while holding
down the <SHIFT> or <CTRL> keys.
The arrow buttons have the following function:
Moves the selected OLL file from the left-hand area into the right-hand area
Moves the selected OLL file from the right-hand area into the left-hand area.
Moves all the OLL files displayed in the left-hand area into the right-hand area.
Moves all the OLL files displayed in the right-hand area into the left-hand area.

Adding Graphic OLLs

You can use the "Object OLL" dialog to link other object libraries in WinCC by copying them
from a floppy disk or from another directory into the area "Available Graphic OLLs".
1. Click the "Floppy disk" button.
The dialog "Floppy disk" opens.

2. Enter the path of the desired source directory or click the "Search" button to select the
source directory.
3. Confirm your selection by clicking "OK".
The selected OLL files will be displayed in the left area of the dialog "Object OLL".
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Note
Object libraries are WinCC files of the format OLL and they are located in the subfolder
"Bin" of the WinCC installation directory.
Additional object libraries can be purchased through your WinCC sales partner.

See also
How to start the Graphics Designer (Page209)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)

3.3.4

This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette

Introduction
The "Controls" tab in the Object Palette of the Graphics Designer contains a selection of
controls in the folders "ActiveX Controls", ".NET Controls" and "WPF Controls". You can insert
these controls directly into a picture.
You can configure the selection of controls available in the tab yourself:
Change the selection of the ActiveX controls in the dialog "Select OCX Controls". You can
add any of the ActiveX controls registered in the operating system to the list of controls and
remove individual controls from the selection.
Change the selection of the .NET controls in the dialog "Select .NET Object".
Change the selection of the WPF controls in the dialog "Select WPF Object".
NOTICE
The use of controls from third party providers can lead to errors as well as drops in
performance or system blockage. The user of the software is responsible for problems
caused by the deployment of external controls.
We recommend a thorough test before implementation.

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Configuring ActiveX controls

1. Open the "Controls" tab and select the entry "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu of the
"ActiveX Controls" folder. The "Select OCX Controls" dialog is opened.

In the area "Available OCXs (Number)", the "Select OCX Controls" dialog shows all the
ActiveX Controls that are registered in the operating system. The exact number is shown
in the title of the area after the registration has been read in. A red check mark indicates
those controls that are available in the "Controls" tab dialog of the Object Palette. The path
and the program ID of the selected ActiveX Controls are displayed in the area "Details".
You can open the "Select OCX Controls" dialog also from the WinCC Explorer. Click on
the entry "Graphics Designer" in the navigation window and select the entry "Select ActiveX
Control" in the shortcut menu.
2. To add an ActiveX control to the Object Palette, select the desired control in the area
"Available OCX Controls".
A red check mark indicates that the control will be added to the "Controls" tab of the Object
Palette.
3. To remove an ActiveX control from the Object Palette, clear the control in question in the
area "Available OCX Controls".
The red check mark disappears.
4. Confirm your changes by clicking "OK".

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Configuring .NET objects and WPF objects

1. Open the "Controls" tab and select the entry "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu of the
".NET Controls" folder or the "WPF Controls" folder.
The dialog "Select .NET Object" or "Select WPF Object" opens.

In the area "Available Controls (Number)", the dialog shows all the .NET objects or WPF
objects on your computer. The precise number is displayed in the title of the area. A red
check mark indicates those controls that are available in the "Controls" tab dialog of the
Object Palette. The assembly, .NET version and path of the selected object are displayed
in the area "Details".
2. To add a control to the Object Palette, select the desired control in the area "Available
Controls".
A red check mark indicates that the control will be added to the "Controls" tab of the Object
Palette.
3. To remove a control from the Object Palette, clear the control in question in the area
"Available Controls".
The red check mark disappears.
4. Confirm your changes by clicking "OK".

See also
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)

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3.3.5

The pop-up menu in the Data Window

Introduction
A shortcut menu permits rapid access to frequently required functions. All of the functions listed
in the shortcut menu can also be started using the menu bar.
The data window is the right-hand window in the WinCC Explorer. Using the shortcut menu,
the clicked picture can be opened, renamed or deleted, for example. In the data window, a
picture can also be defined as the welcome screen.

Requirements
A project must be opened.

Procedure
1. Click in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer with the left-hand mouse button on
the entry "Graphics Designer".
All the pictures (PDL) and faceplate types (FPT) of the current project are displayed in the
data window.
2. Right-click one of the displayed pictures.
The shortcut menu will be opened.
3. Select one of the entries from the shortcut menu.

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Open picture
The selected picture is opened in the Graphics Designer. If necessary, the Graphics Designer
is started.

Rename picture
The selected picture can be renamed in the WinCC Explorer provided it is not opened in the
Graphics Designer. The file format PDL will be kept.
Enter the new file name into the text field of the "New name:" dialog. on Click "OK" to confirm
your entries.
Note
If you rename a picture in the WinCC Explorer, you use a picture name once only. The
software does not check for whether the new name already exists. Duplicate picture names
can lead to conflicts in accessing via VBA or in making dynamic.

Delete picture(s)
The selected picture is deleted provided it is not opened in the Graphics Designer.
If you select the entry "Delete picture", a confirmation prompt appears. As soon as you
confirm deletion of the picture with "OK", the picture is removed from the project.

NOTICE
Deletion of pictures can not be undone.

Note
If you create pictures using the SIMATIC Manager, these cannot be renamed or deleted in
WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC pictures created in WinCC and subsequently
imported into SIMATIC Manager by using the function "Import WinCC Object". You can
recognize these pictures from the "Created by SIMATIC Manager" entry in the Information
column of the data window.

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Define screen as start screen

The selected picture is defined as a welcome screen in Runtime
The selected picture is entered into the "Start picture" field in the tab "Graphics Runtime" of
the dialog "Computer properties".

Open the "Computer properties" dialog

In the navigation window, select the entry "Computer". Double-click the displayed computer
name.

Properties
The "Properties" window provides an overview of the most important properties of the selected
picture file. The "Preview" tab shows a preview of the picture and the file properties. A second
tab contains statistics on the configured dynamic properties of the picture.

Confirm all type changes

All the effects from changing the properties and event of the faceplate types on the given
faceplate instances are confirmed for the selected Graphics Designer pictures.
The affected pictures are saved again. The status of the faceplate instances is reset. The red
cross is no longer displayed when the picture is opened in the Graphics Designer, WinCC
Explorer or in Runtime.
The following actions are combined in one menu command with "Confirm all type changes":
Open each affected picture
Confirm the type change via the "Faceplate instances with type change" dialog
Save the pictures
Use the menu command when you are sure that the changes to the faceplate type will have
no effect on the instances.

See also
Working with Faceplate types (Page299)
Displaying the properties of a picture file (Page224)
Displaying the configured dynamics of a process picture (Page226)
How to start the Graphics Designer (Page209)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)

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3.3.6

Displaying the properties of a picture file

Introduction
If the entry "Graphics Designer" is selected in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer,
all the pictures of the current project are displayed in the data window. The entry "Properties"
in the pop-up menu of a picture opens the "Properties" dialog. The "Properties" dialog has two
tabs that provide an overview of the most important picture properties.
The "Preview" tab shows a preview of the selected process picture as well as the statistical
characteristics of the picture file.

Requirements
A project must be opened.
In the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer, the entry "Graphics Designer" must be
selected.
For a complete display of the properties, the desired picture should not be opened in the
Graphics Designer.

Displaying statistical characteristics

Right-click one of the pictures in the data window and select the entry "Properties" from the
pop-up menu. Select the "Preview" tab.

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The picture properties can also be opened using the menu bar of the WinCC Explorer.

Date created
The date and time the picture was created are shown in the "Created on" field.

Date changed
The date and time the picture was last edited are shown in the "Last change on" field.

File Size
Shows the size of the PDL file in bytes.

Picture Size
Shows the dimensions of the picture as "width by height" in pixels.

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Number of Objects
Shows the number of objects contained in the picture. The displayed value is calculated from
the total number of all configured single, group and customized objects. Also included in the
calculation are the single objects contained in groups.

See also
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
The pop-up menu in the Data Window (Page221)
Displaying the configured dynamics of a process picture (Page226)

3.3.7

Displaying the configured dynamics of a process picture

Introduction
If the entry "Graphics Designer" is selected in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer,
all the pictures of the current project are displayed in the data window. The entry "Properties"
in the pop-up menu of a picture opens the "Properties" dialog. The "Properties" dialog has two
tabs that provide an overview of the most important picture properties.
With the functions of the "Dynamics" tab dialog, details of all dynamics defined for the selected
picture can be displayed.

Requirements
A project must be opened.
In the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer, the entry "Graphics Designer" must be
selected.
For a complete display of the picture properties, the desired picture should not be opened
in the Graphics Designer.

Displaying configured dynamics

Right-click one of the pictures in the data window and select the entry "Properties" from the
pop-up menu. Select the "Dynamics" tab.

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The picture properties can also be opened using the menu bar of the WinCC Explorer.

The first time the "Dynamics" tab is opened, the entry "Statistics" is the default setting as type
of dynamics. The overview list displays all the types of dynamics as well as the frequency of
their configuration in the selected picture. Double-clicking with the left-hand mouse button
directly opens the detail display for the different types of dynamics.

Type of dynamics
From the dropdown list box, select the type of dynamics whose settings you want to display
in the overview list.

"Statistics" button
Click this button to reset the type of dynamics to the entry "Statistics".

Quantity
The "Number" field shows the total number of dynamics configured in the selected picture for
the selected type of dynamics.

Overview list
All the objects of the selected picture for which the selected type of dynamics is configured
are shown in the overview list line by line. The columns of the overview list contain the

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corresponding settings for these objects. The number and content of the columns depend on
the selected type of dynamics.

See also
Displaying the properties of a picture file (Page224)
The pop-up menu in the Data Window (Page221)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
The Graphics Designer in the WinCC Explorer (Page210)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)

3.4

Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer

3.4.1

Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer

Introduction
The Graphics Designer is a combination of a graphics program and a tool for representing
processes. Based on the Windows standard, the Graphics Designer provides functions for the
creation and dynamic modification of process pictures. The familiar Windows program interface
makes it easy to begin using the complex program. Direct Help provides fast answers to
questions. The user can set up a personalized working environment.
This chapter contains information on the structure of the Graphics Designer, on the elements
and basic settings of the program.

See also
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)

3.4.2

The Coordinate System of a Process Picture

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer, the basis for setting positions and specifying sizes is a twodimensional coordinate system. The two axes of the coordinate system, x-axis and y-axis, are
perpendicular to one another and intersect at the coordinate origin.
The coordinate origin lies with the coordinates (X = 0 / Y = 0) in the top left corner of the desktop.
Starting from the coordinate origin, the horizontal x-axis runs in positive direction towards the

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right-hand border of the desktop. The vertical y-axis points in a positive direction towards the
lower border of the desktop. The X and Y values of the current position of the mouse pointer
are displayed in the status bar of the Graphics Designer. The values for X and Y rise when the
mouse pointer is moved from the top left to the bottom right on the desktop. The coordinates
are shown in pixels.

The position and size of objects of a picture are determined by the coordinates that an object
has in the coordinate system. For example, the position of the object origin is set by the
attributes "Position X" and "Position Y". The object origin therefore has the coordinates X =
"Position X" / Y = "Position Y". The values of these attributes describe the distance of the object
origin from the coordinate axes.

Definition of origin
The origin is defined as the point of an area or an object that is used as the reference point for
entering position and size. For the creation of process pictures in the Graphics Designer, the
following reference points are of significance:

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Coordinate origin
The "coordinate origin" is the top left corner of the desktop.
Coordinates: X = 0 / Y = 0

Picture origin
The "picture origin" is the top left corner of a process picture.
Coordinates: X = 0 / Y = 0
If the picture on the work area is not displayed as a window but maximized, the picture origin
is the same as the coordinate origin.

Object origin
The "object origin" is the top left corner of the rectangle surrounding the object.
Coordinates: X = "Position X" / Y = "Position Y"

See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
The Status Bar (Page247)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)

3.4.3

The Coordinate System of an Object

Introduction
The validity of the normal coordinate system is canceled for displays within an object. The
following special forms are used for the internal coordinate system of an object:
2D coordinate system of an object
3D coordinate system of an object

2D coordinate system of an object

The two-dimensional coordinate system of an object differs from that of a process picture in
the direction of the y-axis:
The positive direction of the Y-axis points upward.
The positive direction of the X-axis points to the right.

3D coordinate system of an object

For display in the object "3D bar", a three-dimensional coordinate system is used. In addition
to the horizontal x-axis and the vertical y-axis, this three-dimensional coordinate system has

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a z-axis that points into the picture level. The coordinate system for the spatial representation
of the 3D bar can be customized with the following attributes:
"Display axis"
Determines the coordinate axis, where the value scale displayed by the 3D bar runs.
"Bar direction"
Determines the direction for the "Display axis", which the positive axis section points to.
"Alpha"
Determines the angle for the depth display of the Z-axis.
"Beta"
Determines the angle for the depth display of the X-axis.

The following graphic illustrates the three adjustable display axes.

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See also
How to Insert a 3D Bar (Page575)
The Status Bar (Page247)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)

3.4.4

The Rectangle Surrounding the Object

Introduction
The rectangle surrounding an object is defined as a rectangular frame which lies on the outer
border lines of an object. The rectangle surrounding the object itself is not visible in the
Graphics Designer. As soon as you select an object, selection marks are shown however.
These handles serve as grab points for changing the object size with the mouse. The handles
mark the center axes and corner points of the rectangle surrounding the object.

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Note
If the object has 100% transparency, the selections marks are invisible as well.

The significance of the rectangle surrounding the object for determining the position is
illustrated with a circular or ellipse-shaped object as an example:
The position of an object is defined as the position of its origination in the coordinate system.
The object origin has the coordinates ("Position X"m "Position Y") and is defined as the upper
left corner of the rectangle surrounding the object. Specified in this way, the position of a circular
or ellipse-shaped object is set clearly.

The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object

The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object appear as soon as you select an object.
You can change the size of an object by shifting a selection mark to a new position with the
mouse.
As soon as the mouse pointer is positioned to a selection mark, it switches into a double arrow.
The alignment of the double arrow indicates the directions in which the handle can be moved:

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Horizontal double arrow
You change the width of the object using the selection marks on the horizontal center axis.
Vertical double arrow
You change the height of the object using the selection marks on the vertical center axis.
Diagonal double arrow
The selection marks on the corners of the object can be used to change the height and
width of the object.
Note
You can change the overall size of circular objects. These have no selection marks for
the center axes.

See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
How to scale an object (Page393)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
How to select an object (Page385)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)

3.4.5

The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer

3.4.5.1

The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer

Introduction
The Graphics Designer provides objects and tools for creating process pictures. Start the
Graphics Designer from the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.

Layout of the Graphics Designer screen

The Graphics Designer is designed according to the Windows standard. The Graphics
Designer has a desktop, toolbar, menu bar, status bar and various palettes. When you open
the Graphics Designer, the screen with the default settings appears. As standard, a blank

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picture is displayed (file format PDL). You can move the palettes and bars on the screen and
arrange them as you like.

The Toolbars
At "View", "Toolbars...", the following toolbars can be shown or hidden. In the default setting,
all toolbars, except for the tags, are shown.
Objects: for inserting Standard Objects, Smart Objects, Windows Objects and Controls.
Styles: for changing the line style and thickness, and fill patterns.
Standard: for creating and saving documents, activating the Runtime etc.
Alignment: for aligning a number of objects.
Colors: for fast changes to the color of an object.
Font: for changing the font and font size, font color and border color.
Zoom: for stepless zooming in and out.

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Status: for displaying the language setting and coordinates
Layers: for showing and hiding individual layers.
Dynamic Wizard: for making objects dynamic with pre-prepared C Actions.
Tags: for fast assignment of tags to objects that can be made dynamic.
Note
To move the visible area in the case of large pictures, you can use the scroll bars in
accordance with the Windows standard.
The Graphics Designer provides additional operation options with the mouse wheel: Click
the mouse wheel. The mouse pointer changes and you can move the visible picture area
simply by moving the mouse.

See also
Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page228)
The Status Bar (Page247)
The Tag Palette (Page246)
The Font Palette (Page245)
The Color Palette (Page244)
The Zoom Palette (Page243)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
The Alignment Palette (Page241)
The Dynamic Wizard (Page240)
The Style Palette (Page239)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)

3.4.5.2

The Standard Toolbar

Introduction
The default setting is such that the standard toolbar is located beneath the menu bar of the
Graphics Designer. The buttons of the standard toolbar include both common Windows
commands such as "Save" and "Copy" and special buttons of the Graphics Designer such as
"Runtime".
The standard toolbar can be shown or hidden using "View > Toolbars". At the left on the toolbar
is a gripper, which can be used to move the bar to any position on the screen.

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The buttons of the standard toolbar

Icon

Function

Key combination

Create a new process picture.

<Ctrl+N>

Creates a new Faceplate type.

<Ctrl+T>

Opens an existing process picture.

<Ctrl+O>

Saves the active process picture.

<Ctrl+S>

Starts Runtime, for example to test the active process picture. This function is only available if a process picture has been
opened.
Cuts out the selected object and copies it onto the clipboard. <Ctrl+X>
This function is only available if an object has been selected.
Copies the selected object onto the clipboard. This function
is only available if an object has been selected.

<Ctrl+C>

<Ctrl+V>
Pastes the content of the clipboard into the active process
picture. This function is not available if the clipboard is empty.

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Undoes the last actions (maximum of 30). This function is

only available if an action has been performed beforehand.

<Ctrl+Z>

Redoes the last undone action. This function is only available

if an action has been undone beforehand.

<Ctrl+A>

Prints the content of the active process picture. This function

is only available if a process picture has been opened.

<Ctrl+P>

Places the selected object within the layer in the foreground.

Objects in the foreground cover objects lying behind them.

Places the selected object within the layer in the background.

Objects in the background are covered by objects in the
foreground.

Hides and shows the grid in the active window.

Switches the function "Snap to Grid" on and off.

Increases the zoom factor in individual steps. The picture is

enlarged. This function is only active until the largest zoom
factor (800%) has been reached.

Reduces the zoom factor in individual steps; the picture is

displayed as smaller. This function is only active until the
smallest zoom factor (10%) has been reached.

Zooms in on a selected picture area. This picture area is

displayed in the size of the picture window.

Copies line and color properties of an object to transfer them

to another object.

Assigns properties of an object to another object. This

function is only active if properties have been copied.

Mirrors a selected object on its vertical center axis. If a

number of objects have been selected, the center axis of the
individual objects applies in each case.

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Icon

Function

Key combination

Mirrors a selected object on its horizontal center axis. If a

number of objects have been selected, the center axis of the
individual objects applies in each case.

Rotates a selected object by 90 clockwise around its center

point. If a number of objects have been selected, the center
point of the individual objects applies in each case.

Opens the "Object Properties" window.

Opens the "Library" window. Finished system parts, for

example, can be stored in the libraries of the Graphics
Designer so that they can be inserted later in another process
picture. There are a great many standard forms available in
the libraries, for example electrical circuits.

Opens the VBA Editor.

<Alt+F11>

Activates the direct help (What's this?).

<SHIFT+F1>

See also
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page277)

3.4.5.3

The Object Palette

Introduction
The Object Palette contains different types of objects that are frequently required in process
pictures.
The Object Palette can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars". The Object Palette can
be moved to any position on the screen.

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Contents
There are the following object groups:
Standard objects: e.g. line, polygon, ellipse, circle, rectangle, static text
Smart objects: e.g. application window, picture window, OLE object, I/O field, bars, status
display
Windows objects: e.g. button, check box, option group, slider object
Controls: The 'Controls' tab contains as standard a selection of the most important ActiveX
controls provided by WinCC. Other controls can be linked.
You can read about how to configure the Object Palette yourself in the chapter "Configuring
object selection".

See also
This is how to configure the object selection (Page216)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)
Working with Controls (Page319)

3.4.5.4

The Style Palette

Introduction
The Style Palette allows fast changes to line style, line weight, line end style and fill patterns.
The Style Palette can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars". The Style Palette can be
moved to any position on the screen.

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Contents
The style group "Line Style" contains different line display options such as dashed, dotted
etc.
The style group "Line Weight" sets the thickness of the line. The line weight is specified in
pixels.
The style group "Line End Styles" enables display of the ends of lines as arrows or rounded,
for example.
The style group "Fill Pattern" provides the possibility to display closed objects with, for
example, a transparent or checkered background.

Displaying the Current Settings

If an object has been selected, the style properties of this object are shown in a bold font.

See also
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)

3.4.5.5

The Dynamic Wizard

Introduction
The Dynamic Wizard provides a large number of predefined C Actions to support configuration
of frequently recurring processes. The C Actions are sorted in topics in the form of tabs. The
content of the individual tabs can vary depending on the selected object type.
The Dynamic Wizard can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars". The Dynamic Wizard
can be moved to any position on the screen.

There is an extensive description of this topic in the chapter "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".

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See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

3.4.5.6

The Alignment Palette

Introduction
The functions of the Alignment Palette can be used to process a number of objects together.
You can also call up these functions from the "Arrange > Align" menu.
You show or hide the alignment palette with "View > Toolbars". To the left of the Alignment
Palette is a handle, which you can use to move the palette to any position on the screen.
The Alignment Palette contains the following functions for processing the objects in a multiple
selection:

Prerequisites
You have selected at least two objects.

Overview
Buttons

Function

Reference object

Align:
If the objects have been selected using a
The selected objects are aligned on the left, right, selection border (lasso) with the mouse, the
top or bottom.
object located the furthest towards the outside
is used as reference.
If the objects have been selected using the
pressed <SHIFT> key and the left-hand mouse
button, the first selected object is used as
reference.
If the objects have been selected with <Ctrl+A>,
the reference object of the original selection
applies; otherwise that on the outermost object.
Center:
The selected objects are centered horizontally
or vertically.

The reference is the shared center axis of the

selected objects, independent of the type of
selection.

Distribute:
The selected objects are distributed evenly,
horizontally or vertically.
The outermost objects remain unchanged.

No reference object

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Buttons

Function

Reference object

Match width or height:

The selected objects are matched with one
another in width or height.

If the objects have been selected using a

selection border (lasso) with the mouse, the
object with the largest width or height is used
as reference.
If the objects have been selected using the
pressed <SHIFT> key and the left-hand mouse
button, the first selected object is used as
reference.
If the objects have been selected with <Ctrl+A>,
the reference object of the original selection
applies; otherwise the object with the greatest
width or height.

Match width and height:

The selected objects are matched with one
another in height and width.

The reference object is then the object

configured first in the multiple selection.

See also
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Align Multiple Objects (Page392)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)

3.4.5.7

The Layer Palette

Introduction
In order to simplify the processing of individual objects in complex process pictures, the
Graphics Designer allows you to work with layers. For example, the contents of a process
picture can be distributed across up to 32 layers. These layers can be shown or hidden
individually; in the default setting, all layers are visible; the active layer is Layer 0.
The Layer Palette can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars". To the left of the palette
is a 'gripper', which can be used to move the palette to any position on the screen.

Example: Layers 0 and 1 are displayed, all other layers are hidden. The active layer is Layer
1; this has been renamed to "Compressor".

Making layers visible / invisible

Pressed buttons indicate the visible layers. Click a button to make the layer visible or invisible.

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Active layer
The active layer can be set in the dropdown list box of the Layer Palette.

Renaming layers
The "Settings..." menu on the "Visible Layers" tabbed card is used to rename layers. Doubleclick a layer; you can then enter a new name.

Assigning objects to layers

The assignment of an object to a layer can be changed in the "Object Properties" window.

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to use the layers palette (Page294)
Working with Layers (Page290)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)

3.4.5.8

The Zoom Palette

Introduction
Alongside the buttons for zooming in the Standard Toolbar, the Graphics Designer provides
a separate Zoom Bar. This enables very convenient zooming in a process picture.

On the left side of the Zoom Bar is a slider for finely graded setting of the zoom factor. To the
right of this are buttons with predefined zoom factors. The currently set zoom factor is displayed
below the slider in %.
The Zoom Palette can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars". The Zoom Palette can
be moved to any position on the screen.

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Note
The minimum and maximum zoom factors can be defined individually for all layers. For
example, you can set the detail displays on a separate layer and show it only as of a certain
zoom factor, see chapter "Showing / Hiding tab dialogs".

To move the visible area in the case of a high zoom factor, you can use the scroll bars in
accordance with the Windows standard.
The Graphics Designer provides additional operation options with the mouse wheel: Click
the mouse wheel. The mouse pointer changes and you can move the visible picture area
simply by moving the mouse.

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
Showing and hiding layers and objects (Page264)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)

3.4.5.9

The Color Palette

Introduction
Depending on the selected object, the Color Palette enables fast changes to the line or fill
color. It provides 16 standard colors and the bottom button provides the option of selecting a
user-defined color or a color from the global color palette.

Use color palette

Depending on the selected object, a mouse click on a color in the palette has a different effect:
In the case of closed objects (e.g. rectangle), the fill color is changed.
In the case of open objects (e.g. polyline), the line color is changed.

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In the case of text objects, the background color is changed.
If no object has been selected, the selected color is assigned to the background of the
active process picture.
Button
opens the "Color selection" dialog with two tabs. This offers the ability to assign the
object with a user-defined color or a color from the global color palette. This requires the "Global
color scheme" being set to "No" in the object properties under "Display". More information on
this is found in chapter "How to work with user-defined colors".
You can move the color palette as you wish on the screen and show or hide it with "View >
Toolbars".

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to work with user-defined colors (Page272)
"Colors" Property Group (Page441)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)

3.4.5.10

The Font Palette

Introduction
The most important text characteristics are easy to change using the Font Palette. The Font
Palette allows changes to the font, font size, font color and line color.

The Font Palette can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars"; it can be moved to any
position on the screen.
Other text characteristics such as text in italics or bold print are set in the Object Properties
window.
Note
The default settings of text characteristics can be changed for any text object. You can change
the default settings via the object properties, see chapter "The basic settings of the Graphics
Designer". Or you change the default setting via the font palette: First select a text object in
the Object Palette, then change the properties in the Text Palette and insert the text object.
The changed text characteristics then apply to all other objects of the same type.

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See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
Managing the default settings of objects (Page267)
"Font" Property Group (Page446)

3.4.5.11

The Tag Palette

Introduction
The Tag Palette enables fast linking of process tags to objects.
The Tag Palette can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars". The Tag Palette can be
moved to any position on the screen. The default setting is that the Tag Palette is hidden.

Contents
The Tag Palette has the same layout as an Explorer window. The Tag Palette contains a list
of all of the tags available in the project as well as a list of the internal tags. Filters can be set,
the view can be changed, and an update of the connections is possible.
With the mouse button pressed, the tags in the right-hand window can be dragged to attributes
of an object in the "Object Properties" window.

See also
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
Selecting a tag (Page608)
You can link the tag connection of objects (Page418)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)

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3.4.5.12

The Status Bar

Introduction
The status bar is laid out in accordance with the Windows standard and it contains useful
information.
The status bar can be shown or hidden using "View", "Toolbars".

Contents

Tip: Pressing the <F1> key shows tips related to the currently active window.
Language: The language currently selected in the Graphics Designer is displayed.
Object name: The name of the selected object is displayed. If a number of objects have
been selected, "Multiple Selection" is displayed.

Coordinates of the selected object

Example: X:0 Y:0 means that the object origin of the selected object is located at the very
top left in the picture; see chapter "The coordinate system of a process picture". The values
are updated automatically during the movement of an object, thus making exact placement
easier.
Size of the selected object
Example: X:70 Y:40 means that the selected object is 70 pixels wide and 40 pixels high.
The values are updated automatically during the size change of an object, thus making
exact scaling easier.
Keyboard Settings
UE: <CAPS LOCK> was pressed, the text will be entered in capital letters.
NUM: <NUM> was pressed; numeric keypad is activated.
RE: <SCROLL LOCK> was pressed.

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)

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3.4.6

The Central Color Palette

3.4.6.1

The central color palette

Introduction
In WinCC, you can work with a central color palette. This requires assigning certain index
colors of your choice. You can then not only assign explicit colors but color indices from the
central color palette as well in the Graphics Designer.

Central color palette for objects

If you use the central color palette, you can change the colors in many objects at the same
time with just a few steps. Prerequisites for this are:
"WinCC Classic" is not set as the global design.
The central color palette is defined.
The "Global color scheme" is set to "No" in the object properties under "Display".
Colors from the central color palette are selected in the object properties.
As soon as you change the central color palette in the project settings, it affects those object
elements in the objects that have colors assigned from the central color palette.
Note
The central color palette may contain a maximum of 10 color areas each with 20 colors. It
does not have to be fully defined.

Working with palettes

You have the following options with color palettes:
Create color palette
WinCC does not initially provide a central color palette. You create the color palette yourself.
Edit color palette
You can add or change colors in the color palette at any time.
Use color palette
When selecting the color for an object element, you can select a color index from the central
palette.
Delete color palette
You can delete an existing color palette.
Export color palette
You can export the color palette from your project as an XML file.
Import color palette
You can import a color palette into your project from elsewhere.

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See also
How to define the central color palette (Page249)
How to export and import color palettes (Page251)
"Colors" Property Group (Page441)

3.4.6.2

How to define the central color palette

Introduction
The central color palette contains indices for assigning certain colors. If you change the central
color palette, you also change all of the indexed colors from the central color palette used in
the objects along with it.
The central color palette is divided into a maximum of 10 color ranges of 20 colors each.
Note
The central color palette does not have to be completely defined.
In order to edit a central color palette, proceed in the same way as for defining the palette.

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Procedure
1. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The "Project properties" dialog opens.
2. Click on "Edit" on the "Surface & Design" tab next to "Central color palette".
This will open the "Color selection" dialog box.

3.

4.

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Click on
"Add color range".
The 20 square boxes of the color palette fill with numbers, the color indices.
Click on
"Rename color range" and instead of the automatic name definition, enter a
name that means something to you.

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5. Define the desired color by moving the three scroll-bars for red, green and blue to the
desired values.
Alternative procedures:
Click on the color square or in the color circle and define the brightness on the scale.
Enter the RGB value directly or via the HTML code.
6. Determine the transparency of the color.
7. Click on the "To palette" button and then in the respective box.
The color is transferred to the box.
8. Repeat steps 3 and 5 until the color range is full.
9.

Click on
this area.

"Add color range", to open the next color range and repeat steps 2 to 6 for

10.Repeat step 7 until you have defined all required color ranges.
11.Confirm with "OK".

Results
The central color palette is defined. If you have changed the central color palette, all of the
colors selected from the central color palette are also changed in the objects.

See also
How to work with user-defined colors (Page272)
The central color palette (Page248)

3.4.6.3

How to export and import color palettes

Introduction
The central color palette contains indices that are assigned to certain colors. If you change the
central color palette, you also change all indexed colors used in the objects from the central
color palette.
The central color palette is subdivided into a maximum of 10 color areas each with 20 colors.
Note
The central color palette does not need to be fully defined.
You can make a central color palette that you have created available to another project by
exporting or you can import the palette from another project into your project. To export or
import a color palette, proceed as follows:

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Procedure
1. Click the project name in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer and select the
Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The "Project properties" dialog will open.
2. On the "User Interface and Design" tab, click "Edit" next to "Central Color Palette".
The "Color Selection" dialog box opens.

3.

To export the current central color palette, click on

"Export palette".

4. Enter the path and name of the XML file in the dialog and confirm with "OK".
The color palette is exported.

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5.

To import a palette, click on

"Import palette", select the desired XML file in the file
selection dialog and click "Open".
The dialog box for importing the palettes appears.

6. Select one of the three options.

Note
If the attachment of the imported palette exceeds the total maximum number of colors,
the excess colors will not be imported.
The palette is imported.
All indexed colors, i.e. those selected from the central color palette, are then automatically
changed in the objects.

Attaching a Color Palette That is Too Large

The following example shows the attachment of a color palette that is too large.
Example:
Your palette has five color areas, i.e. 100 indexed colors. You want to import a color palette
with seven color areas, i.e. 140 indexed colors.
Result:
The first five color areas of the palette to be imported are imported; the last two color areas of
the palette are not imported.

See also
The central color palette (Page248)

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3.4.7

The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer

3.4.7.1

The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer

Introduction
The following basic settings of the Graphics Designer can be customized:
Displaying and setting the grid
Displaying and setting the menu and the toolbars
Visibility and zoom factors of the individual layers
Default objects configuration
General settings and options

Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Extras" and click "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the various
setting options opens.
Alternatively, you can also open the window using the entries "Grid" or "Layers" in the "View"
menu.

See also
Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page228)
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)
Working with Layers (Page290)
Changing the default trigger (Page269)
Managing the default settings of objects (Page267)
Showing and hiding layers and objects (Page264)
Customizing Menu and Toolbars (Page262)
Making layers invisible (Page260)
This is how you set the options (Page256)
How to Set the Grid (Page254)

3.4.7.2

How to Set the Grid

Introduction
To enable exact work, you can make a background grid appear. If required, you can enable
the option "Snap to grid". Then, all objects that are created or moved are automatically aligned
to the grid.

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Showing the grid and aligning to the grid can be set via the Standard Toolbar. The grid width
is set via the basic settings of the Graphics Designer.
The set grid properties are not saved with the process picture. When opening again or when
a new picture is created, the default settings of the program are used once again.

Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Tools" and click "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the various
setting options opens. Click the "Grid" tab.
Alternatively, you can also open the window using the entries "Grid" or "Layers" in the "View"
menu.

Snap to Grid
If the check box is enabled, objects are aligned to the grid points when they are created,
inserted and moved. Objects that have already been created are only aligned to the grid when
they are moved.

Display grid
When the check box is enabled, the grid points are shown.
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Width in pixels
Horizontal spacing of the grid points. Maximum distance: 100 pixels

Height in pixels
Vertical spacing of the grid points. Maximum distance: 100 pixels
With a large grid width, objects are aligned to the left or upper grid points, as the case may be.

Alternative Procedure
All grid properties can be changed in the "Object Properties" window of the active process
picture. The color of the grid can also be changed there.
Note
The minimum grid spacing that can be displayed on the screen is 10 pixels. If you want to
set a smaller value, you can align objects to this grid. On the screen, however, the grid spacing
displayed is the first multiple of the grid value that is greater than or equal to ten.
Example: You set 6 pixels as grid spacing; a grid or 12 pixels is shown on the screen. Objects
can be placed on one grid point or between two grid points.

See also
How to insert an object into a picture (Page382)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.7.3

This is how you set the options

Introduction
Different program settings can be changed and saved.

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Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Tools" and click on "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the
various setting options opens. Click on the "Options" tab.

Save settings on exit

If this check box is enabled, the changes you have made in the "Settings" window are saved
when you exit from the program. If the check box is disabled, the changed settings are lost.
The default setting is that the check box is enabled.
Note
The "Save settings on exit" check box must be enabled for the settings in this dialog to be
retained when you exit from the program.

Issue performance warnings

Cyclic triggers can lead to a high system load.

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If the check box is enabled, a warning is issued in the event of a system overload as soon as
the picture is to be saved. This warning contains the name of the object and the attribute that
has been made dynamic and has led to the overload. If the check box is disabled, you do not
receive a warning, i.e. also no indication of the cause of the overload. The default setting is
that the check box is enabled.

Display effect of the faceplate type change on the dynamic properties

If the check box is selected, the "Faceplate instances with type change" dialog box is shown
with all faceplate instances that are to be checked. The dialog box opens when you want to
save a picture with faceplate instances that are affected by changing type-specific properties
and events. You can use this dialog box to hide the red crosses over invalid faceplate instances.

VBA events
If the check box is enabled, the configured VBA events to monitor the VBA actions is not
triggered. The default setting is that the check box is disabled.

Use configuration dialog

If the check box is activated, the "Configuration Dialog" window opens automatically if the
inserted object has a configuration dialog.
Objects with configuration dialog:
Smart objects: Control, I/O field, bars, graphic object, status display, text list
Windows objects: Button, slider object
If the check box is not enabled, the objects are inserted with the default settings.
Independent of whether the check box is enabled, the configuration dialog can be opened at
any time via the context-sensitive menu. Right-click the object and select the entry
"Configuration Dialog..." in the shortcut menu.

Display tips and tricks

If the check box is enabled, every time the Graphics Designer is started a tip on creating or
optimizing process pictures is displayed. The default setting is that the check box is disabled;
no tips and tricks are displayed when the program is started.

Object selection
Objects can be selected by clicking or by drawing a selection border. This selection border is
also referred to as a 'lasso'. You can specify whether the lasso must fully enclose the objects
or whether contact with the lasso is sufficient to select an object.
With the Option "Surrounding", the complete objects must lie in the selection border (lasso);
with the Option "Touching", it is sufficient that an object touches the selection border (lasso).
The default setting is that the "Surrounding" option is selected.

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Editing properties
Attributes of objects can be changed via the object properties. Whether a value can be entered
directly in the "Object Properties" window or whether a dialog box is to be opened is specified
using the "Edit Properties - Edit Directly".
If the check box is enabled, the value of an attribute can be changed by double-clicking on the
attribute in the "Object Properties" window. If the check box is not enabled, double-clicking
opens a window for value input. The default setting is that the check box is enabled; digits and
text can be entered directly in the "Object Properties" window.

OCX display
If the check box is activated, ActiveX controls in the Graphics Designer are shown in your
activated look. Setting the OCX representation only has an effect when process pictures are
being created, not in Runtime. The default setting is that the representation of ActiveX Controls
is enabled.

Copy and paste objects

If the option "In active layer" is selected, copied objects are pasted into the active layer,
independent of the layer from which they have been copied.
If the option "in present layer(s)" is selected, copied objects are inserted into the layer from
which they were copied. If a number of objects are selected and copied from different layers,
each individual object retains the layer to which it was allocated.

Always reset object type selection

If the check box is enabled, the mouse pointer turns back into the selection mouse pointer
after an object has been inserted. However, if you want to insert a number of objects of the
same type, you can disable the check box. Then, the active object type remains active after
an object has been inserted, and the same object can be quickly inserted a number of times.
You then do not have to reselect the object type for each object to be inserted. The default
setting is that the check box is enabled.
Note
The "Save settings on exit" check box must be enabled for the settings in this dialog to be
retained when you exit from the program.

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See also
How to select an object (Page385)
Changing the default trigger (Page269)
Customizing Menu and Toolbars (Page262)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
Working with Layers (Page290)
Working with Objects (Page378)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.7.4

Making layers invisible

Introduction
You can make the individual layers of a picture visible or invisible. This shows or hides the
objects of the various layers. The settings can be made independently of one another for CS
(Configuration System) and RT (Runtime).
When a picture is opened, all layers in the Configuration System are always visible. The
settings for which layers were invisible for the last processing are not saved when you exit
from the Graphics Designer.
The settings for Runtime can be saved with the corresponding setting in the "Options"
tab.
The independent visibility of layers in CS and RT has advantages: You can store more
information in the picture than is to be visible in Runtime.
Double-click a layer to rename it.

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Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Extras" and click "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the various
setting options opens. Click on the "Visible Layers" tab.

Layers window
You can make the individual layers of a picture visible or invisible. When the check box is
enabled, the corresponding layer is visible. The active layer always remains visible.

All layers visible / invisible

Clicking on one of the buttons makes all layers visible or invisible. If you click "All layers hidden",
only the active layer remains visible. Depending on the setting "Apply to", the buttons change
the layers in the CS and/or in RT. The active layer always remains visible.

Language
You can change the names of the layers for each language. Set the language and rename the
layers in the 'Layers' window.

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See also
Showing and hiding layers and objects (Page264)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
Working with Layers (Page290)
Working with Objects (Page378)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.7.5

Customizing Menu and Toolbars

Introduction
The view of the Graphics Designer can be changed Buttons can be shown as threedimensional or flat, or keyboard shortcuts can be displayed in the menus.
Whereas the menus always comprise all entries, you are completely free to configure the
standard toolbar as you like.
The settings that can be made here are program settings that are independent of individual
process pictures and are retained when you exit from the program.

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Open the "Menu / Toolbars" tab

In the menu bar, select "Tools", "Settings" and click the "Menu / Toolbars" tab.

Flat style for toolbars

If the check box is enabled, all buttons are shown as flat. Alternatively, they are shown as threedimensional.

Display move handles

Handles are displayed beside or above toolbars, if the check box is activated. These handles
are used to grip the toolbar if it is to be moved on the screen. When the check box is disabled,
the handles are not shown.

Deactivated buttons in color

If the check box is enabled, both active and inactive buttons are displayed in color. Alternatively,
only the active buttons are displayed in color.

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Standard Toolbar - Configurable

If the check box is enabled, the Standard Toolbar is configurable, and the "Drag&Drop with
ALT key active" check box can be enabled. Alternatively, the toolbar can not be configured,
but it remains movable.
The configuration dialog for the standard toolbar is described in chapter "Changing the
Standard Toolbar".

Standard Toolbar - Drag&Drop with ALT key active

If the check box is enabled, the icons can be shifted within the Standard Toolbar. To do so,
hold the <ALT> key and drag the icon to be moved to the desired position.

Display buttons in the menu

If the check box is enabled, the icons of the Standard Toolbar are shown to the left of the menu
entries. Alternatively, only the text appears in the menus.

Display all shortcuts

If the check box is enabled, all the possibilities for input via the keyboard are displayed to the
right of the menu entries. Alternatively, only the most important keyboard shortcuts appear in
the menus. For example, copying an object in the clipboard can be made by means of two
different key combinations: In accordance with the Windows standard, by pressing the <CTRL
+C> key combination or by pressing <CTRL> and <0> on the numeric keypad.

See also
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page277)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.7.6

Showing and hiding layers and objects

Introduction
Whether layers and objects are shown or hidden can be made dependent on the current zoom
factor. For example, it is possible to show details as of a certain zoom factor and not before.
Each layer can be assigned its own minimum and maximum zoom. It is also possible to show
only objects whose display size lies within a defined range.
The settings in this tab dialog are retained when you exit from the program if the "Save settings
on exit" check box is enabled in the "Options" tab.

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Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Extras" and click "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the various
setting options opens. Click on the "Show/hide" tab.

Setting zoom ranges for individual layers

Double-click the digits in the columns "Min Zoom" or "Max Zoom" to set the zoom range in
which the contents of a layer is to be displayed. The zoom range is specified in %. Minimum
value is 2%, maximum value is 800%.
Activate the "Activate - Planes" chec-box".
Note
If you have set the zoom ranges for the layers and want to zoom into the process picture
when processing, disable the "Activate - Layers" check box. The set zoom ranges for the
layers are disabled, but are retained, and you see all the details of your picture.

Example:
The coarse display lies on Layer 8; the detail display of an area lies on Layer 10. Layer 8 is
displayed in the zoom range between 80% and 800%; Layer 10 is displayed in the zoom range
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between 100% and 800%, see above picture. With this setting, the details of Layer 10 are only
shown when the user zooms in to the picture by over 100%.

Setting the size range for the display of objects

If objects are only to be displayed in the range between a minimum and maximum display size,
you can define the size range. The display size is independent of the object size: An object is
shown within the zoom factors that show the object in the set size.
Enable the "Object Size" check box and enter the minimum and maximum size in pixels. When
you confirm this input with OK, only objects in this display size are displayed.
Note
If you have set the display size and want to zoom into the process picture when processing,
disable the "Activate - Object Size" check box. The "Object Size Settings" are disabled, but
are retained, and you see all the details of your picture.

Adopting selected zoom value for all layers

If you want to change the zoom range for all layers, set it in the upper window for a layer and
click the "MinZoom" or "MaxZoom" button. The layer from which the zoom ranges are to be
adopted must be selected. Enable the "Activate - Layers" check box to receive a display of the
settings.

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See also
Making layers invisible (Page260)
The Zoom Palette (Page243)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
Working with Layers (Page290)
Working with Objects (Page378)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.7.7

Managing the default settings of objects

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer, the various object types have default properties. If an object from
the Object Palette is inserted in a picture, the object adapts to these default settings.

Working with default objects

The default setting for the individual object types can be adapted as required. Ideally, the
default settings should be adapted before you begin creating a process picture. That way, the
extent of later adaptations, for example for frequently used objects, can be limited.
If you are illustrating a complex process and require a great many process pictures with the
same object settings, it is recommended that you create a "master picture". You define the
object settings in this master and use it as a template for all individual process pictures.
All the information on default setting for object types is contained in a file of the format PDD.
As standard, the file "Default.pdd" is in the graphic folder "GraCS" of each project. You can
use the "Default Objects Configuration" tab in the "Settings" dialog to select the following
options for default settings of object types:
The default settings can be saved immediately or also automatically on exiting from the
Graphics Designer.
The default settings of another project can be loaded into the current project.
The file name and the directory path for storing the PDD file can be changed.

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Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Extras" and click "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the various
setting options opens. Click on the "Default Objects Configuration" tab.

Saving default settings of objects

1.

.
In the field "File" click the button
The dialog "Default objects" will open.

2. Select the PDD file in which you want to save the changes and confirm your selection with
"OK".
By default, the PDD file of a project is stored in the graphic folder "GraCS".
3. In the "Save" field, click the "Save Now" button.
The changed default settings are saved in the selected PDD file.
4. Enable the "Save Configuration on Exit" check box if you want the default object
configuration to be saved when you exit from the Graphics Designer.

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Loading default settings of objects

1.

In the field "File" click the button

.
The dialog "Default objects" will open.

2. Select the PDD file, which you would like to load and confirm your selection with
"OK".
By default, the PDD file of a project is stored in the graphic folder "GraCS".
3. Click on the button "Load now".
The default objects configuration is imported from the selected PDD file into the current
project.
4. You can now save the loaded default settings in the current project directory:
In the field "File" click the button
he dialog "Default objects" will open.

5. Select the PDD file of the current project and confirm your selection with "OK".
6. In the "Save" field, click the "Save Now" button.
The imported default settings of the objects are saved in the PDD file of the current project.
Note
The default settings for objects do not apply across all projects. The changed default settings
only apply to the pictures of the currently opened WinCC project. The basic settings of the
Graphics Designer are not changed here.

See also
Changing the default trigger (Page269)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.7.8

Changing the default trigger

Introduction
The set trigger specifies the update cycle in Runtime. Each attribute of an object that has been
made dynamic can be assigned an individual update cycle. The value you specify for the default
trigger is the default update cycle for all objects. If, for example, you want to have a lot of
objects updated in a cycle of 2 seconds, set the default trigger to 2 s. You then no longer need
to change the trigger setting for tag connection of the individual attributes.

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Opening the "Settings" window

In the menu bar, select "Extras" and click "Settings...". The window with the tabs for the various
setting options opens. Click on the "Default Objects Configuration" tab.

Selecting the default trigger

Open the dropdown list box and select a value.

Picture cycle
A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object property Update
Cycle of the picture object. This cycle provides the option of defining the cycles of all the
actions, tag connections and dynamic dialogs used in a picture centrally.

Window Cycle
A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object property Update
Cycle of the Picture Window object. This values applies to all actions, tag links and dynamic
dialogs, which were configured with the trigger type "Window cycle".

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Upon change
This trigger updates the object every time a change is made. In the case of external tags, there
might be a brief delay; internal tags lead to an immediate update.

Time values (250 ms - 1 h)

This trigger updates the object in the set cycle.

User cycle (1 - 5)
You can set this trigger any way you like.
Define user cycles:
1. Click in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer with the right-hand mouse button on
the project (top entry).
2. In the context-sensitive menu, select the entry "Properties".
3. Select the "Update Cycles" tab.
4. Select one of the user cycles and redefine it.
You have to restart the Graphics Designer to make your individual user cycles available.
Note
The shorter the set update cycles, the higher the system load. To prevent an overload, the
update should not take place more often than necessary.

See also
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
Managing the default settings of objects (Page267)
Trigger Types (Page819)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)

3.4.8

Customizing the Working Environment

3.4.8.1

Customizing the Working Environment

Introduction
The Graphics Designer provides a great many possibilities to customize the working
environment. For example, you can change the toolbar and palettes. You can define your own
colors and change the basic settings of the program.

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Please bear in mind that the default setting of the Graphics Designer is such that changes to
the working environment are saved when you exit from the program. If you do not want to save
the settings, open the "Extras" menu, then "Settings..."; select the "Options" tab and disable
the "Save settings on exit" check box.

See also
Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page228)
The Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page254)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page277)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to work with user-defined colors (Page272)

3.4.8.2

How to work with user-defined colors

Introduction
In addition to the 16 basic colors from the Color Palette, you are free to use other colors and
assign them to objects. You can either define and use other colors directly or you can select
a color from the central color palette.
The central color palette must be created first.

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Define color yourself

1. On the Color Palette, click

. This will open the "Color selection" dialog box.

2. Define the desired color using the color square, the color circle and the scrollbars or enter
the value directly on the "Colors" tab.
The currently selected color is displayed in the preview window.
3. The new color is assigned to the currently selected element of the picture by pressing the
"OK" button. This changes:
With a closed object: The fill color
With an open object: The line color
With a text object: The background color
If no object is selected: The background of the active process picture.
This requires the "Global color scheme" being set to "No" in the object properties of the
respective object under "Display".

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Select color from central palette

1. On the Color Palette, click

. This will open the "Color selection" dialog box.

2. Select a color range and a palette color on the "Palette" tab.

3. The new color is assigned to the currently selected element of the picture by pressing the
"OK" button. This changes:
With a closed object: The fill color
With an open object: The line color
With a text object: The background color
If no object is selected: The background of the active process picture.
Note
This requires the "Global color scheme" being set to "No" in the object properties of
the respective object under "Display".

Change color centrally

If you have selected a color from the central color palette, this color is changed automatically
if also changed on the color palette.

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See also
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)
"Colors" Property Group (Page441)
The Color Palette (Page244)
How to define the central color palette (Page249)

3.4.8.3

How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes

Introduction
The default setting of the Graphics Designer is such that all toolbars and palettes are shown,
except for the Tag Palette. To enlarge the desktop, you can hide toolbars that you do not
require and show them again if required.

Procedure
1. Open the "View" menu and select the "Toolbars..." option. The "Toolbars" dialog is opened.
2. If the check box is enabled, the corresponding toolbar is displayed; if the check box is
disabled, it is not displayed.
3. The "Apply" button shows the new settings; the "Restore" button restores the default setting.
4. Save the new settings with "OK". The dialog is closed.
Note
After processing an OLE object, it can occur that the toolbars of the Graphics Designer are
no longer displayed. You can prevent this error after processing an OLE object if you first
close the server application (for example Excel or Paint) before exiting the Graphic Designer.

To restore the display of toolbars, proceed as follows:

1. Select all of the objects available in the active picture.
2. Open the "View" menu and select the "Toolbars..." option.
3. In the "Toolbars" dialog, click the "Restore" button.

See also
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page277)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)

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3.4.8.4

How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes

Introduction
The Standard Toolbar and the palettes are originally arrange at the border of the screen. You
can move them to another position or drag them as windows on the desktop.

Special features
The size of a palette can only be changed if it is located as a window on the desktop.
If you move a palette from the workspace back to the border of the screen, its size is not
adapted to the free space. For this reason, you should set the palette size to the size of the
free space before the move.
The default setting is such that the changed view is saved when you exit from the Graphics
Designer. If you do not want to save the settings, open the "Extras" menu, then "Settings...";
select the "Options" tab and disable the "Save settings on exit" check box.
Note
If you have greatly enlarged individual palettes and then moved them to the border of the
screen, your desktop might be too small to drag the palette back onto it to reduce its size. By
double-clicking on the palette title, you detach the palette from the border of the screen. It is
displayed as a window and you can reduce its size.

Moving a palette as a window on the desktop

Click on the border or on the handle of the palette; keep the left mouse button pressed and
drag the palette on the desktop. The size of some palettes can now changed.

Moving a palette to the screen border

Click on the title bar of the palette; keep the left mouse button pressed and drag the palette to
the border of the screen. If you want to change the size of the palette, convert it back into a
window by double-clicking on the palette title, change the size, and move it back to the border.

Restoring the original view

The original view can only be restored as long as the Graphics Designer has not saved the
current settings on exit, see above.
1. Open the "View" menu and select the "Toolbars..." option.
2. Click on the "Restore" button.

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See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page277)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)

3.4.8.5

How to Change the Standard Toolbar

Introduction
The Standard Toolbar can be customized. Buttons can be added, shifted or removed.

Requirements
The Standard Toolbar must be configurable. To enable this, open the "Extras", "Settings..."
menu, then the "Menu / Toolbars" tab and enable the check boxes of the Standard Toolbar.
"Configurable" means that the Configuration Dialog for the Standard Toolbar can be
opened. "Drag&Drop with ALT key active" means that the buttons can be shifted directly.

Changing the Standard Toolbar with the Configuration Dialog

Keep <ALT> pressed and double-click the Standard Toolbar. The "Customize Toolbar" window
opens. Here you can add and remove buttons and change the order of the buttons on the
toolbar.
To restore the original toolbar, click "Reset".

Changing the Standard Toolbar with drag&drop

Hold <ALT> pressed and drag an icon to the desired position with the mouse. To remove a
button from the toolbar, let go of the button outside the toolbar.

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Restoring the Standard Toolbar

If you have inadvertently removed buttons, you can simply restore the Standard Toolbar. In
the menu bar, click "View" and "Toolbars". In the "Toolbars" window, click the "Restore" button.

See also
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page276)
Customizing the Working Environment (Page271)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page275)

3.5

Working with Pictures

3.5.1

Working with Pictures

Introduction
In Graphics Designer, a picture is a file in the form of a sheet of drawing paper. The size of
the drawing sheet can be adjusted. A drawing sheet has 32 layers, which can be used to
improve the organization of the drawing. The files are saved in the project directory, GraCS,
in the PDL format. The complete process can be distributed over several individual pictures,
which are linked together. Retrievals of other applications and files can also be included in a
process picture.
The more complex the configured process is, the more detailed the planning should be.

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Project Planning Notes

Plan the structure of the process display: How many pictures are required in which
hierarchy?
Example: subprocesses can be shown in individual pictures, which are then merged into a
main picture.
Plan the navigation within a picture and between the individual pictures: Operating
sequence, buttons and hotkeys should be uniform in all pictures.
Create a Master picture in which the picture properties, default settings and object settings
are defined. This Master picture should then be used as the template for each individual
picture.
Use the program functions: Process pictures can be efficiently created by using libraries,
copying and transferring properties and by working with layers and multiple pictures.
To avoid changes in the picture layout, make certain that each picture is displayed - during
the design phase - at the same size that it later will be displayed on the target computer.
To avoid changes in the picture layout, make certain that you only use fonts that are also
available on the target computer.
Note
If you save a process picture, the system creates a backup in file format "*.sav" in the
project folder in the GraCS directory. In order to restore the process picture from the
backup, change the file format from "*.sav" to "*.pdl".
If you save a Faceplate type, the system creates a backup in file format "*.saf" in the
project folder in the GraCS directory. In order to restore the Faceplate type from the
backup, change the file format from "*.saf" to "*.fpt".

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See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
Working with Multiple Pictures (Page295)
Working with Layers (Page290)
How to set the picture properties (Page288)
How to export graphics (Page287)
How to convert pictures (Page286)
How to Delete a Picture (Page284)
How to Rename a Picture (Page282)
How to Copy the Picture (Page282)
How to open a picture (Page281)
How to save the pictures (Page281)
How to create a new picture (Page280)

3.5.2

How to create a new picture

Introduction
Depending on the selected method of working, you will either create a new picture using the
default settings or take your Master picture and save this under a new file name. The advantage
of working with a master picture is that all of the changes that you make while creating it will
then be kept consistently throughout the project.

Creating a New Picture

In Graphics Designer, either select "New" in the "File" menu or click the Windows symbol
. A new picture will be created with the default settings.
You can also create a new picture by using the pop-up menu in WinCC Explorer's navigation
window.

See also
Working with Pictures (Page278)
How to set the picture properties (Page288)
How to save the pictures (Page281)

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3.5.3

How to save the pictures

Introduction
Files are saved in Graphics Designer in the usual Windows manner.

Procedure
An active picture can either be saved via the button
or with the key combination <CTRL+S>.

, with the menu entry "File", "Save",

To save the active picture under a new file name, select "Save As" in the "File" menu.
To save all of the open pictures, select "Save All" in the "File" menu.

See also
Working with Pictures (Page278)
How to Copy the Picture (Page282)

3.5.4

How to open a picture

Introduction
Picture files are opened in Graphics Designer in the usual Windows manner.

Opening Picture
Click on the button
in the Graphics Designer or select the entry "File", "Open" in the menu
bar. Select a PDL format file.
You can also open a picture in WinCC Explorer by double-clicking on a PDL format file. This
will start Graphics Designer, if necessary, and then open the picture.
Note
Pictures may only be opened and edited in Graphics Designer. Pictures may not be opened
in Windows Explorer or any similar program.

See also
Working with Pictures (Page278)

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3.5.5

How to Copy the Picture

Introduction
If you want to transfer the settings that you have made in a picture to another one, simply save
the old picture under a different name and delete or change the new picture's contents.

Saving a picture under a different name

To do this, select "Save As..." from the "File" menu. Enter a new file name in the windows
"Save as".
Note
It is not possible to copy a picture and then insert it with a different file name in WinCC
Explorer. To accomplish this, use Windows Explorer.
If you copy a picture created with the SIMATIC Manager using "Save As", you may rename
or delete this copy in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC pictures created in WinCC
and subsequently imported into SIMATIC Manager by using the function "Import WinCC
Object".
Note
If you rename a picture in the WinCC Explorer, you use a picture name once only. The
software does not check for whether the new name already exists. Doubled picture names
can lead to conflicts in accessing via VBA or in making dynamic.

See also
How to open a picture (Page281)
How to Delete a Picture (Page284)
How to Rename a Picture (Page282)
Working with Pictures (Page278)

3.5.6

How to Rename a Picture

Introduction
A picture can only be renamed in WinCC Explorer.
Of course, you can save a picture with a different name; but the picture will still be in the project
directory with its old file name.

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Rename picture
Close the picture that you want to rename.
Start the WinCC Explorer and right-click the picture.
Select the entry "Rename picture" in the pop-up menu and enter a new name.

Note
If you rename a picture in the WinCC Explorer, you use a picture name once only. The
software does not check for whether the new name already exists. Doubled picture names
can lead to conflicts in accessing via VBA or in making dynamic.
Note
If you create pictures using the SIMATIC Manager, these cannot be renamed in WinCC
Explorer. This also applies to WinCC pictures created in WinCC and subsequently imported
into SIMATIC Manager by using the function "Import WinCC Object". You can recognize these
pictures from the "Created by SIMATIC Manager" entry in the Information column of the data
window.

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See also
How to Copy the Picture (Page282)
How to open a picture (Page281)
How to Delete a Picture (Page284)
Working with Pictures (Page278)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)

3.5.7

How to Delete a Picture

Introduction
A picture can only be deleted in WinCC Explorer.

Deleting Picture
Close the picture that you want to delete.
Start the WinCC Explorer and right-click the picture.
Select the entry "Delete picture" in the pop-up menu and confirm the security inquiry with "OK".

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Note
If you create pictures using the SIMATIC Manager, these cannot be deleted in WinCC
Explorer. This also applies to WinCC pictures created in WinCC and subsequently imported
into SIMATIC Manager by using the function "Import WinCC Object".

See also
How to Copy the Picture (Page282)
How to open a picture (Page281)
How to Rename a Picture (Page282)
Working with Pictures (Page278)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)

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3.5.8

How to convert pictures

Introduction
Pictures, which were created with an older version of Graphics Designer, can be converted to
the current version with WinCC Explorer.

Converting pictures
In WinCC Explorer, right-click "Graphics Designer". The pop-up menu will open.
Select the entry "Convert pictures" and a confirmation dialog will be displayed. Please observe
the warnings.
When you confirm the conversion of the pictures with "OK", all of the project's pictures will be
converted. It is not possible to convert an individual picture.
NOTICE
Conversion of pictures can not be undone.

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Note
It may take a while to convert the pictures.

See also
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
Working with Pictures (Page278)

3.5.9

How to export graphics

Introduction
Graphics can be exported from Graphics Designer in the EMF (Enhanced Metafile) and WMF
(Windows Metafile) file formats. However, in this case, dynamic settings and some objectspecific properties will be lost, since they are not supported by the graphic formats.
It is also possible to export graphics in the program's own PDL format. However, it is only
possible to export an entire picture in the PDL format and not individual objects. On the other
hand, when a picture is exported to a PDL file, the dynamics are retained and the exported
picture can then either be inserted in a picture window or opened as a file.
Note
We recommend that you check all pictures, which you export for further processing in other
programs, for both completeness and interpretation errors.

Special features
Some programs do not use the same graphic filters. It is possible that some programs will
not be able to open a graphic that was exported from Graphics Designer. Furthermore,
fonts and object information will also sometimes be incorrectly interpreted by other
programs. If the screen must appear precisely as it is in Graphics Designer, but your
program displays it incorrectly, you can solve this problem by making a screenshot.
When exporting a picture created with the Graphics Designer, all object properties
dynamics of the individual objects are lost.

Procedure
1. Select the object which should be exported. If you do not select an object, the entire picture
will be exported.
2. Open the "Tools" menu and select the entry "Settings". The "Save as metafile" window will
open.
By default, the file will be saved in the GraCS directory for the WinCC project. However,
you can of course export the file to a different directory.

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3. Enter the file name.
4. Select the graphic's export file type - EMF or WMF.
5. Confirm your entry by clicking on "Save".

See also
Working with Pictures (Page278)

3.5.10

How to set the picture properties

Introduction
In Graphics Designer, a process picture is treated as an object and is called a Picture Object.
It has properties and can be dynamized. The properties and dynamics of the picture can be
adjusted at any time. If no object has been selected in the picture, the "Object Properties"
window will display the properties of the Picture Object.

Procedure
1. If the properties of a picture should be changed, make certain that no objects has been
selected. Open the window "Object properties" by clicking the button
in the toolbar. As
an alternative, the "Object Properties" window can also be opened via the pop-up menu or
by selecting "Properties" in the "View" menu.
2. Check whether the properties of the picture are displayed: The entry "Picture Object" must
be displayed in the object type field at the top of the window. The picture's file name will be
shown in the drop-down list at the right.
3. The attributes, which are found by clicking on the "Properties" or "Event" tabs, can be
changed like the attributes of an object. For more information, please see the chapter
entitled "Change Attributes".

See also
Working with Pictures (Page278)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
Displaying the configured dynamics of a process picture (Page226)
Displaying the properties of a picture file (Page224)
How to transfer picture properties to another picture (Page295)

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3.5.11

How to configure a picture background

Introduction
You can use a picture file as a background for a process picture. The background picture and
the respective parameters belong to the properties of the picture.

Insert background picture

1. Make sure that no object is selected in the picture on which you click in the background
picture.
2. Open the window "Object properties" by clicking the button
in the toolbar.
As an alternative, the "Object Properties" window can also be opened via the pop-up menu
or by selecting "Properties" in the "View > Properties" menu.
The entry "Picture Object" is then displayed in the "Object type" field in the top line of the
window.
3. Click on the "Background picture" property.
4. Double click on "Picture".

5. Select the desired background picture in the "Picture" dialog.

Use "Find" to open the file selection dialog for loading other pictures into the selection. You
can use the following file types as backgrounds:
EMF, WMF, DB, BMP, GIF, JPG, JPEG, ICO.
6. Select the layout for the background picture after double clicking on "Show as":
Normal: The background picture is centered in the original size.
Stretched (window): If the runtime window is larger than the configured process picture,
the background picture is scaled to the size of the runtime window. Otherwise, the
background picture is scaled to the size of the process picture.
Tiled: The process picture is arranged with the picture in the original size.
Stretched (Picture): The background picture is scaled to the configured size of the
process picture.
7. Close the Properties dialog.
The current picture is provided with the selected background.

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Delete background picture

1. Make sure that no object is selected in the picture.
2. Open the window "Object properties" by clicking the button
in the toolbar.
As an alternative, the "Object Properties" window can also be opened via the pop-up menu
or by selecting "Properties" in the "View" menu.
The entry "Picture Object" is then displayed in the "Object type" field in the top line of the
window.
3. Click on the "Background picture" property.
4. Double-click on the "Picture".

5. Click on "Cancel selection" and confirm with "OK".

The background picture is removed from the picture.
6. Close the Properties dialog.

3.5.12

Working with Layers

3.5.12.1

Working with Layers

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer, a picture consists of 32 layers in which the objects can be inserted.
The position of an object in a picture is set when it is assigned to a layer. Objects of the layer
0 are located at the screen background, while objects of the layer 32 are located in the
foreground. Objects are always added on the active layer, but can be quickly moved to another
layer. An object's assignment to a layer can be changed using the "Layer" attribute in the
"Object Properties" window.
In addition, it is also possible to change the positioning of the objects with respect to each other
within a layer. Four functions are available for this purpose in the "Arrange / Within the Layer"
menu. When creating a process picture, the objects of a level are by default arranged in the
order in which they were configured: The object inserted first lies at the very back of the level,
each additional object is inserted one position toward the front.

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Note
You can define the level to insert a copied object into with the Graphics Designer settings.
More information on these settings can be found under topic "Create process pictures >
Elements and basic settings of the Graphics Designer > The basic settings of the Graphics
Designer > How to set options" in section "Copying and inserting objects".

Layer Techniques - Principles

When a picture is opened, all 32 layers of the picture will be displayed. This setting cannot be
changed. The layer palette can be used to hide all but the active layer. In this manner, it is
possible to concentrate on editing the objects of the active layer. Layers are particularly useful
when preparing pictures that contain many different types of object types.
For example, you could place all of the "Bar" objects on Layer 1 and all of the "I/O Field" objects
on Layer 2. If you later decide to change the font color of all of the I/O fields, you can now
display just Layer 2 and then select all of the objects on this layer. The time-consuming
selection of individual I/O fields scattered throughout the picture is thus unnecessary.

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See also
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
Working with Layers (Page290)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
How to change the position of an object (Page403)
How to use the layers palette (Page294)
How to assign a layer (Page293)
This is how you set the options (Page256)

3.5.12.2

How to assign a layer

Introduction
The "Object Properties" window can be used to assign the layer in which an object will be
placed.

Assigning Layers
Select an object and open the "Object Properties" window. Select the object type, double-click
the "Layer" attribute and enter the number of the desired layer.

Multiple selection
If several objects from a number of different layers should be moved to a single common
layer, this can be quickly accomplished by using a multiple selection.

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Example: There are objects on Layers 2, 5 and 7, which should be moved to Layer 9. Hide all
of the layers except Layers 2, 5 and 7, select the objects and then assign Layer 9 to the object
type "Multiple Selection" in the "Object Properties" window. All of the objects will then be moved
to Layer 9.

See also
How to assign a layer (Page293)
Making layers invisible (Page260)
Showing and hiding layers and objects (Page264)
How to use the layers palette (Page294)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
Working with Layers (Page290)

3.5.12.3

How to use the layers palette

Introduction
With the aid of the Layers palette, it is possible to display only those layers that are actually
used for editing a picture. Up to 31 layers can be hidden if need be. The active layer remains
visible.

Making layers visible / invisible

Click on one of the buttons on the Layers palette. When the button is depressed, the
corresponding layer will be visible. If you click ">>", Layers 16-31 will be displayed; a click the
"<<" button will display the Layers 0-15.

Select the Active Layer

Open the drop-down list and select an active layer.

Example: Layers 0 and 1 are displayed, all other layers are hidden. The active layer is Layer
1; this has been renamed to "Compressor".

Renaming layers
The "Settings..." menu on the "Visible Layers" tabbed card is used to rename layers. There
you can double-click a layer and enter a new name.

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See also
Making layers invisible (Page260)
How to assign a layer (Page293)
Showing and hiding layers and objects (Page264)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
Working with Layers (Page290)

3.5.13

Working with Multiple Pictures

3.5.13.1

Working with Multiple Pictures

Introduction
Multiple process pictures are quite useful when working with complex processes. These
process pictures are then linked to each other and one picture can be integrated in another.
Graphics Designer supports a number of features which ease the process of working with
multiple pictures.
The properties of a picture can transferred to another picture.
Objects can be transferred from one picture to another.
Objects can be copied from one picture to another.

See also
Working with Pictures (Page278)
How to copy objects to another picture (Page298)
How to transfer objects to another picture (Page296)
How to transfer picture properties to another picture (Page295)

3.5.13.2

How to transfer picture properties to another picture

Introduction
With the exception of the display of the grid and the grid width, the properties of a picture can
be transferred to other pictures with the aid of the "Pipette".

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Procedure
1. Open the picture with the properties you want to copy. Make certain that no object is
selected.
2. In the standard toolbar, click
.
The picture properties will be copied.
3. Open picture to which the properties should be assigned. Make certain that no object is
selected.
4. In the standard toolbar, click
.
The picture properties will be assigned.
As an alternative, the functions for copying and assigning properties can also be accessed via
the "Edit /Properties" menu.

See also
How to transfer objects to another picture (Page296)
How to copy objects to another picture (Page298)
Working with Multiple Pictures (Page295)
Working with Pictures (Page278)

3.5.13.3

How to transfer objects to another picture

Introduction
With "Cut" and "Paste", you can cut out a selected object and paste it from the operating
system's clipboard. Pasting from the clipboard, it can be copied into any picture. The object
can be copied any number of times, even into different pictures.

Multiple selection
It is possible to simultaneously cut out several selected objects and paste them into another
picture.

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Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Press the key combination <CTRL+X> in order to cut the selected object and to transfer it
to the clipboard.
Alternatively you can click the icon
in the standard toolbar or use the entry "Cut" in the pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.
2. Open the picture into which the object in the clipboard should be pasted.
3. Press the key combination <CTRL+V>.
Alternatively, you can click the icon
in the standard toolbar or use the entry "Cut" in the
pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.
The current content of the clipboard will be inserted into the active picture and selected.
4. Repeat this step to insert further copies of the contents.

Alternative Operation
Drag&Drop: Select the object to be transferred and drag it with the left mouse button depressed
to another picture.
Note
Objects from other applications can also be inserted via the clipboard of the operating
system.

Position X and Position Y of the inserted object are each 20 pixel greater as as Position X
and Y of the original object.

The inserted object receives the object name of the original object but is supplemented by a
continuous number.

See also
How to duplicate objects (Page402)
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to delete objects (Page398)
How to copy objects to another picture (Page298)
Working with Multiple Pictures (Page295)
Working with Pictures (Page278)

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3.5.13.4

How to copy objects to another picture

Introduction
With "Copy" and "Paste", a selected object can be copied to the clipboard and pasted from
there into any picture. The advantage of copying to the clipborad is that that object can be
inserted several times, and into different pictures.

Multiple selection
It is possible to simultaneously copy several selected objects and paste them into another
picture.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Press the key combination <CTRL+C> to copy the selected object to the clipboard.
Alternatively, you can click the icon
in the standard toolbar or the entry "Copy" in the
pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.
2. Open the picture into which the object in the clipboard should be pasted.
3. Press the key combination <CTRL+V>.
Alternatively, you can click the icon
in the standard toolbar or use the entry "Cut" in the
pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.
The current content of the clipboard will be inserted into the active picture and selected.
4. Repeat this step to insert further copies of the contents.
Note
Objects from other applications can also be inserted via the clipboard of the operating
system.

Position X and Position Y of the inserted object are each 20 pixel greater as as Position X
and Y of the original object.

The inserted object receives the object name of the original object but is supplemented by a
continuous number. No special characters are used in the object name.

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See also
How to duplicate objects (Page402)
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to delete objects (Page398)
How to transfer objects to another picture (Page296)
Working with Pictures (Page278)
Working with Multiple Pictures (Page295)

3.6

Working with Faceplate Types

3.6.1

Working with Faceplate types

Introduction
A faceplate is a standardized picture object that you create centrally as a type in a project.
WinCC saves the faceplate type in a fpt file. Afterward, you can insert the faceplate type as a
faceplate instance in a process picture. You edit the faceplate instance like an individual object
of the object palette in the Graphics Designer.
The use of faceplate types reduces the configuration work required, because one faceplate
type can be used in multiple pictures and the instances can be changed centrally via the
faceplate type.

Properties and events of faceplate types

Faceplate types have two types of properties and events:
Type-specific properties and events
These properties and events can only be changed in the faceplate type. Type-specific
properties and events are the properties and events of the individual objects, which cannot
be configured in the faceplate instances.
Instance-specific properties and events
You configure these properties and events in the faceplate instances.
When creating the faceplate type, define whether a property is type- or instance-specific in a
configuration dialog.
If you insert a faceplate type as an instance in a process picture, the instance-specific
properties and events are allocated with the predefined values from the faceplate type. You
can then adapt the instance-specific properties and events individually to the process picture.
The following picture shows the use of the type- and instance-specific properties in the
faceplate instances.

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The changes of the type-specific properties are not updated automatically in the faceplate
instances. You get the changes in the instances by closing and reloading the respective
process picture.
Note
The following menu functions of the Graphics Designer are not available to you when editing
a faceplate type.
Activating runtime
Customized Object
Tag connections

Copying a faceplate type

If you want to copy a faceplate type from a project into another, you must first copy the fpt file
of the faceplate type in the Windows Explorer into the project folder of the new project.
Afterwards, you can insert the instances of the faceplate type into the new project as normal.

Copying and inserting individual objects of a faceplate type

If you are copying individual objects of a faceplate type into a process picture, all dynamics of
this object are deleted. This prevents e.g. the use of invalid scripts with faceplate tags in a
process picture.
If you are copying objects from a process picture into a faceplate type, all dynamics of this
object are deleted. This prevents e.g. the use of invalid scripts with WinCC tags in a faceplate
type.

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Note
The faceplate instance and the corresponding faceplate type must be located in the currently
open project. If you open a "PDL" file from another previously edited project in the Graphics
Designer with the menu command "Last Files", the faceplate instances are shown in white,
since the associated faceplate types are located in another project directory.

3.6.2

How to create a Faceplate type

Introduction
A Faceplate type is the template for the Faceplate instances. The Faceplate type is created
centrally in the project. You define which properties and events can be configured in the
Faceplate type and which can be configured in the Faceplate instance in the Faceplate type.
The Faceplate type is a combination of individual objects from the object palette of the Graphics
Designer.
Note
The object types connector, customized object, application window, picture window and
Faceplate cannot be used.

Procedure
1. Creating a Faceplate type.
2. Inserting and configuring individual objects of the Faceplate type.
3. Configuring a Faceplate type.
4. Creating Faceplate tags.
5. Making a Faceplate type dynamic.

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See also
How to create a Faceplate type (Page302)
How to insert the individual objects of the Faceplate type (Page302)
Configuration of a Faceplate type (Page303)
Properties of a Faceplate type (Page304)
How to configure the properties of a Faceplate type (Page306)
Event of a Faceplate type (Page309)
How to configure the events of a Faceplate type (Page310)
Definition of the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type (Page312)
How to edit the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type (Page313)
Making a Faceplate type dynamic (Page314)

3.6.3

How to create a Faceplate type

Requirements
Faceplate.oll is integrated in the object palette of the Graphics Designer.
The Graphics Designer is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "New Faceplate type" command from the "File" menu.
A new picture will be created with format *.fpt.
2. Select the "Save" command on the "File" menu.
3. Save the Faceplate type in the project folder.
The Faceplate type is created.

3.6.4

How to insert the individual objects of the Faceplate type

Introduction
A faceplate type is a combination of objects from the object palette of the Graphics Designer.
You can insert and configure these individual objects like the objects in a normal WinCC picture.
Note
You cannot use the object types ActiveX control, customized object, application window,
picture window, faceplate, connector and the icons of the HMISymbol library.

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Requirement
A faceplate type is opened in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Insert the individual objects of the faceplate type from the object palette.
2. Position the individual objects in the desired position.
3. Configure the object properties of the individual objects.
Note
The configured object properties, which you later do not define as instance-specific in the
configuration dialog, are the type-specific properties of this faceplate type.
4. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the faceplate type.
You can find additional information on inserting and configuring the individual objects in the
object palette of the Graphics Designer in the section "Working with objects of the object
palette".

See also
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)

3.6.5

Configuration of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You define which properties and events of a Faceplate type should be able to be configured
in the instances in the configuration dialog of a Faceplate type. The "Object Properties" window
of the Faceplate instance shows only the properties and events defined in the configuration
dialog.
You call the configuration dialog in the "Edit" menu with the "Configure Faceplate type"
command.

"Properties" Tab
You define the properties that should be able to be configured in the instances in the
"Properties" tab. Every instance-specific property can be connected with multiple properties
of the individual objects.

"Events" Tab
You define the events that should be able to be configured in the instances in the "Events" tab.
You can only connect each instance-specific event with a single event of the individual objects.

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See also
Properties of a Faceplate type (Page304)
How to configure the properties of a Faceplate type (Page306)
Event of a Faceplate type (Page309)
How to configure the events of a Faceplate type (Page310)

3.6.6

Properties of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You define the properties that should be able to be configured in the instances in the
"Properties" tab. Every instance-specific property node can be connected with multiple
properties of the individual objects. Only the name of the property node is shown in the object
properties of the Faceplate instance. By changing the value of the property node, all of the
properties of the individual objects connected with the property nodes are changed.
Note
You are not permitted to assign the following properties of the individual objects with a
property node:
"OutputFormat" of the I/O field.
"Layer" for all objects.

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Selected Properties
This area contains the instance-specific property nodes for the Faceplate type. Each of these
property nodes can be assigned with one or more properties of the individual objects. Only the
name of the property node is shown in the object properties of the instances. By changing the
value of the property node, all of the properties of the individual objects connected with the
property nodes are changed.

Objects
This area contains all objects included in the Faceplate type. Select an object for which you
want to show the available properties in the "Object Properties" area.

Object Properties
This area contains all available properties for the object selected in the "Objects" area. In order
to define a property of the individual objects as instance-specific, drag the desired property
with Drag & Drop into the "Selected properties" area on the respective property node.

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Note
Group the properties of the individual objects in the property nodes in a meaningful fashion.
You should e.g. not group line thickness together with background color.
Enter a unique name for the property node. There are no language-dependent names for the
property nodes.
Note
You can only assign each property of an individual object to one property node.
You can only make the properties of an individual object dynamic in the Faceplate type that
are not assigned to a property node.
You can only assign a property node with properties of an individual object that you have not
made dynamic in the Faceplate type.

Special aspects of the property node

You have two possibilities for creating property nodes:
Connect the property nodes with properties of the individual objects.
Create an "empty" property node without any connection to the property of the individual
objects.
In order to use an "empty" property node, the following configuration steps are required:
Make property nodes dynamic with the dynamic capabilities that are available in the
Faceplate type.
When scripting, you access the "empty" property nodes in the Faceplate type by way of
SmartTags.
Connect property nodes in the Faceplate instance with Variable.
The variable can be used to trigger the OnChanged event of the property node.
Configure the event on an OnChanged event of the property node in the Faceplate instance.
The event is executed if e.g. the value of the property node is changed with a script in the
Faceplate type.

See also
How to configure the properties of a Faceplate type (Page306)

3.6.7

How to configure the properties of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You define the properties that should be able to be configured in the instances in the
"Properties" tab. Every instance-specific property node can be connected with multiple
properties of the individual objects. Only the name of the property node is shown in the object

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properties of the faceplate instance. By changing the value of the property node, all of the
properties of the individual objects connected with the property nodes are changed.

Requirements
The configuration dialog must be open.
The "Properties" tab has been selected.

Add properties
1. Click on "Add property" to add a property node in the "Selected properties" area.
2. Rename the property nodes using the context menu when required.
If you want to configure a property node without any connection to the individual objects,
proceed with step 8.
3. Select an object in the "Objects" area for which you want to define a property as instancespecific.
The properties available for the selected object are displayed in the "Object Properties"
area.
4. Select the desired property in the "Object Properties" area.

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5. Drag the desired property using Drag & Drop onto the property node in the "Selected
properties" area.
The property of the individual object is arranged under the property node.
Note
You can assign each property node with multiple properties of the individual objects. Make
sure that the properties of the individual objects are grouped in a meaningful fashion. Only
the name of the property node is shown in the object properties of the faceplate instance.
By changing the value of the property node, all of the properties of the individual objects
connected with the property nodes are changed.
6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 until all desired properties are in the "Selected properties" area.
7. Click "Apply".
The configurations that have been defined are accepted.
8. Click "OK".
The configuration dialog is closed.
9. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the faceplate type.

Deleting properties
1. Select the property or property nodes that you want to delete in the "Selected Properties"
area.
2. Select the "Delete" command from the context menu of the selected property or the selected
property node.
The selected property or the selected property node is deleted from the selection.
3. Click "Apply".
The configurations that have been defined are accepted.
4. Click on "Exit".
The configuration dialog is closed.
5. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the faceplate type.

Subsequently changing the properties of the faceplate type

You can assign another object property to an instance-specific property of a faceplate type at
a later point in time. You need to check and possibly adapt existing faceplate instances.
A red cross is shown on the instance in the pictures with affected instances of the faceplate
type.

See also
How to use a Faceplate instance (Page315)

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3.6.8

Event of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You define the events that should be made available in the instances in the "Events" tab.

"Selected events" area

This area contains the instance-specific event nodes for the faceplate type. Each of these
event nodes assign exactly one event to the individual objects. Only the name of the event
node is shown in the "Name" tab for the object properties of the instances. The event of the
individual object is triggered by triggering the event linked to the event node.

"Object" area
This area contains all objects included in the faceplate type. Select an object for which you
want to show the available events in the "Object Events" area.

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"Object events" area

This area contains all available events for the object selected in the "Objects" area. In order
to define an event as instance-specific, drag the desired event with Drag & Drop into the
"Selected events" area on the respective event node.
Note
Enter a unique name for the event node. There are no language-dependent names for the
event nodes.

See also
How to configure the events of a Faceplate type (Page310)

3.6.9

How to configure the events of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You define the events that should be able to be configured in the instances in the "Events" tab.
Every instance-specific event node can be connected with only one event of the individual
object. Only the name of the event node is shown in the object properties of the faceplate
instance. By changing the value of the event node, all of the events of the individual objects
connected with the event nodes are changed.

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Requirements
The configuration dialog must be open.
The "Events" tab has been selected.

Adding events
1. Click on "Add event" to add an event node in the "Selected events" area.
2. Rename the event nodes using the context menu when required.
3. Select an object in the "Objects" area for which you want to define an event as instancespecific.
The events available for the selected object are displayed in the "Object Events" area.
4. Select the desired event in the "Object Events" area.
5. Drag the desired event using Drag & Drop onto the event node in the "Selected events"
area.
Note
Every event node can only be assigned to a single event of the individual objects.

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6. Repeat steps 1 to 5 until all desired events are in the "Selected events" area.
7. Click "Apply".
The configurations that have been defined are accepted.
8. Click on "Exit".
The configuration dialog is closed.
9. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the faceplate type.

Deleting events
1. Select the event or the event node that you want to delete in the "Selected events" area.
2. Select the "Delete" command from the context menu of the selected event or the selected
event node.
The selected event or the selected event node is deleted from the selection.
3. Click "Apply".
The configurations that have been defined are accepted.
4. Click on "Exit".
The configuration dialog is closed.
5. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the faceplate type.

Subsequently changing the event of the faceplate type

You can assign another event to an instance-specific event of a faceplate type at a later point
in time. You need to check and possibly adapt existing faceplate instances.
A red cross is shown on the instance in the pictures with affected instances of the faceplate
type.

See also
How to use a Faceplate instance (Page315)

3.6.10

Definition of the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You cannot use the tags of the WinCC Tag Management in a faceplate type. You can only use
faceplate tags for making objects dynamic. These faceplate tags are only valid for this faceplate
type. The Faceplate tags can only be edited in the Faceplate type.

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"Faceplate tags" configuration dialog

The configuration dialog "Faceplate tags" is called up in the "Edit" menu with the "Edit
Faceplate tags" command.
You can configure the following for the tags:
Name
Data type
Start value
Lower limit
Upper limit

See also
How to edit the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type (Page313)

3.6.11

How to edit the Faceplate tags of a Faceplate type

Introduction
You cannot use the tags of the WinCC Tag Management in a faceplate type. You can only use
faceplate tags for making objects dynamic. These faceplate tags are only valid for this faceplate
type. The Faceplate tags can only be edited in the Faceplate type.

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Requirements
A Faceplate type is opened in the Graphics Designer.

Add Tags
1. Select the "Edit Faceplate tags" command from the "Edit" menu.
The "Faceplate tags" dialog opens.
2. Double click on "Add...".
A new tag is created with default values.

Editing Tags
1. Double click on a created tag.
The input fields are activated in the lower portion of the window.
Note
The active input fields depend on the data type of the tags.
2. Enter the desired values in the input fields.
3. Click on "Accept" to accept the changes.
4. Click "Exit" to close the dialog box.
5. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the Faceplate type.

Deleting tags
1. Select the tags to be deleted.
2. Clock on the "Delete selected tags" to delete the tags.
The selected tags are deleted.
3. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to save the changes in the Faceplate type.

3.6.12

Making a Faceplate type dynamic

Introduction
You cannot use the tags of the WinCC Tag Management in a faceplate type. You can only use
faceplate tags for making objects dynamic. Not all dynamization options are available in
WinCC. The dynamizations that you perform in a faceplate type are only valid for this faceplate
type.

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Available dynamizations
The following dynamizations are possible:
VB Scripts
Variable connection to the faceplate variables

Dynamization with VB scripts

You cannot use VB scripts to access data outside of the faceplate type. The "HMIRuntime"
component in the faceplate type was thus removed. None of the features of HMIRuntime are
therefore available in the faceplate type. However, you cannot debug scripts in faceplate types.
The new "SmartTags" component was added in the faceplate type. With "SmartTags", you
can access the faceplate variables and the properties of the faceplate type. You can find
additional information on "SmartTags" in the VBS reference under the "SmartTags Object"
topic.
Use "ScreenItems" to access the individual objects of a faceplate type. You can find additional
information on "ScreenItems" in the VBS reference under the "ScreenItems Object (Listing)"
topic.

Dynamizing through a tag connection

You can only use the faceplate tags for tag connections in a faceplate type. Otherwise do just
the same as you would for a normal process picture. For more information on variable
connections refer to the section headed "Dynamizing through a tag connection".

See also
Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection (Page838)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)

3.6.13

How to use a Faceplate instance

Introduction
You insert the faceplate type as a faceplate instance in a process picture. You configure the
instance-specific properties in the process picture.

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Requirement
The Graphics Designer is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "New" command on the "File" menu.
A picture is opened in format *.pdl.
2. Insert the "Faceplate" object from the object palette into the picture with a double click.
An "Open dialog" is opened.
3. Select the desired faceplate type.
The faceplate instance is inserted in the picture.
The selected faceplate type is listed under the "Faceplate type FPT" attribute in the object
properties.
Note
If you select no faceplate types or an invalid faceplate type, the faceplate object is deleted
from the picture.
4. Select "Properties" in the context menu of the faceplate instance.
The "Object properties" dialog box opens.
5. Configure the instance-specific properties in the "Properties" tab.

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6. Configure the instance-specific events in the "Events" tab.

7. Close the "Object properties" dialog box.

The configurations that have been defined are accepted.

Effects of the faceplate type change on the given instances

You can change properties and events of the faceplate type, even if an instance of the faceplate
type already exists. A red cross is shown on the instance in the pictures with affected instances.
A compete automatic adjustment of the scripts in the instances cannot be ensured after
changing the type-specific properties and events of the faceplate. Scripts can then no longer
be executed, or no longer executed correctly. A faulty operation can be triggered without this
being indicated to the user.
Therefore, check all scripts linked with the faceplate instance.
When you want to save a picture with faceplate instances that are affected by changing the
type-specific properties and events, the following dialog is displayed with all the faceplate
instances to be checked.

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When you have checked the scripts and, if necessary, adjusted these, select the check box
in front of the instance. The red cross on the unchecked or invalid faceplate instance is then
hidden.
In the Graphics Designer you can set the option to have this dialog displayed when saving the
picture. Use the menu command "Options/Settings" to open the "Options" tab and select the
check box "Show information at faceplate type change".

See also
How to configure the properties of a Faceplate type (Page306)
How to configure the events of a Faceplate type (Page310)

3.6.14

How to update a Faceplate instance

Introduction
The changes of type-specific properties in the Faceplate type are not updated in Faceplate
instances if the respective process picture of the Faceplate instance is open. You get the
changes in the instances by closing and reloading the respective process picture.

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Requirements
A Faceplate type is created.
An instance of the Faceplate type is inserted in a process picture.

Procedure
1. Select the "Open type" command from the "File" menu.
The "Open" dialog box is opened.
2. Select the desired Faceplate type.
3. Change the desired type-specific properties and events of the individual objects.
4. Select the "Save" command in the "File" menu to accept the changes in the Faceplate type.
5. Close the pictures in which the instances of the Faceplate type are contained.
6. Load the pictures into the Graphics Designer again.
The changes to the Faceplate type are accepted in the Faceplate instances.

3.7

Working with Controls

3.7

Resources

3.7.1

Working with Controls

Contents
ActiveX controls offer the option of integrating elements for controlling and monitoring system
processes into a process picture. WinCC supports the following types of controls:
ActiveX controls
ActiveX controls are control elements from any provider that can be used by other programs
via a defined interface based on OLE.
.NET controls
.NET controls are control elements from any provider based on the .NET framework 2.0
from Microsoft.
WPF controls
WPF controls are control elements from any provider based on the .NET framework 3.0
from Microsoft.
The size and properties that a control accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.
All ActiveX controls registered in the operating system and the .NET and WPF controls on your
system are available for use in WinCC.

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However, this chapter only covers the use of ActiveX controls provided by WinCC. The ActiveX
controls provided by WinCC can be changed as required and embedded dynamically in the
process.
This chapter shows you:
how to register ActiveX controls in the operating system
how to embed and configure controls in process pictures with the Graphics Designer
how to use controls.

3.7.2

Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls

Introduction
Controls are used for the monitoring and visualization of measured values and system
parameters. By appropriate dynamics they can be employed as control elements of the process
control.
While installing WinCC, a number of ActiveX controls will also be installed: The WinCC
controls.

Overview
Detailed descriptions of the following WinCC controls can be viewed via the links in the menu
bar.

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Control

Abbreviation

Function

Siemens HMI Symbol

Library

Symbol Library

The Symbol Library contains a comprehensive

collection of ready-made symbols for the display of
systems and system components in process pictures.

WinCC AlarmControl

AlarmControl

The AlarmControl can be used to display messages

during runtime.

WinCC Digital/Analog
Clock Control

Clock Control

The Clock Control can be used to integrate a time

display into a process picture.

WinCC
FunctionTrendControl

FunctionTrendCo
ntrol

The FunctionTrendControl can be used to display the

values of tags as functions of other tags and compare
the trend with the setpoint trend.

WinCC Gauge Control

Gauge Control

The Gauge Control can be used to display the

monitored measurement values in the form of an analog
measurement clock.

WinCC Media Control

Media Control

The Media Control can be used to play media files.

WinCC
OnlineTableControl

OnlineTableContr
ol

The OnlineTableControl can be used to display values

from archive tags in tabular form.

WinCC
OnlineTrendControl

OnlineTrendContr
ol

The OnlineTrendControl can be used to display values

from tags and archive tags as trends.

WinCC
RulerControl

RulerControl

RulerControl displays the evaluation of process data in

a statistics or ruler window.

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Control

Abbreviation

Function

WinCC Push Button

Control

Push Button
Control

The Push Button Control can be used to start execution

of a command.

WinCC Slider Control

Slider Control

The Slider Control can be used to display the monitored

measurement values in the form of a slider control.

WinCC
UserArchiveControl

UserArchiveContr
ol

The UserArchiveControl provides options to access

user archives and views of the user archives.

IXDiskSpace.DiskSpac
e

Disk Space
Control

Disk Space Control enables the monitoring of the

capacities available on a storage medium.

See also
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
The "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" Control' (Page349)
The "WinCC Gauge" Control (Page355)
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
WinCC AlarmControl (Page1014)
WinCC OnlineTrendControl (Page1220)
WinCC FunctionTrendControl (Page1274)
WinCC OnlineTableControl (Page1186)
WinCC Media Control (Page364)
The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Control (Page340)
The "IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace" Control (Page335)

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3.7.3

This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object:

Introduction
Insert an ActiveX control from the Object Palette into a process picture. You can insert controls
as a smart object or from the "Controls" tab.

If you insert the ActiveX control as a smart object, select the ActiveX control from the "Insert
a Control" dialog during the insertion process. The dialog shows all the ActiveX controls that
are registered in the operating system.
NOTICE
The use of ActiveX Controls from third party providers can lead to errors as well as drops in
performance or system blocks. The user of the software is responsible for problems caused
by the deployment of external ActiveX Controls.
We recommend testing for safe operation before implementation.
At the end of the insertion process a configuration dialog is usually opened, in which you adapt
the properties of the control. You can also open this dialog later by double-clicking the control.
Detailed description of the configuration dialog can be found in the descriptions of the related
controls.

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WinCC uses the designation of the control linked with a sequential number as the object name
by default. You can change this name with the "Object name" attribute in the "Object
Properties" window.

Procedure
1. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Control".
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the ActiveX
control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the control to the desired size with the mouse.
The "Insert a Control" dialog opens.

4. Select one of the ActiveX controls that are registered in the operating system. Confirm your
selection with "OK".
With some controls, the corresponding configuration dialog is automatically opened. In any
case, you can open the configuration dialog with a double-click or via the shortcut menu.
5. Adapt the settings of the configuration dialog as needed. Confirm your entries with "OK."
The insertion process for the "Control" object is finished.

Alternative procedure
Double click in the object palette on the Smart Object "Control", in order to insert it with the
default properties into the process picture. Select the desired control in the "Insert a Control"
dialog.

See also
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

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3.7.4

This is how you insert a .NET or WPF control as a smart object

Introduction
Insert a .NET or WPF control from the Object Palette into a process picture. You can insert
these controls as a smart object or from the "Controls" tab.
When inserting the control as a smart object, select the required control in the "Insert a Control"
dialog. All the controls which were configured for selection are displayed here.
NOTICE
Possible problems with third-party controls
The user of the software is responsible for problems caused by the deployment of external
controls.
We recommend testing for safe operation before implementation.
At the end of the insertion process a configuration dialog is usually opened, in which you adapt
the properties of the control. You can also open this dialog later by double-clicking the control.
By default, WinCC uses the name of the control, linked with a continuous number, as the object
name. You can change this name with the "Object name" attribute in the "Object Properties"
window.

Procedure
1. In the Object Palette, click the smart object ".NET Control" or "WPF Control".
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the control to the desired size with the mouse.
The "Insert a Control" dialog with the controls from the "Global Assembly Cache" is opened.

4. Select the required control and confirm with "OK".

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5. Select the required type in the "Select Type" dialog.
With some controls, the corresponding configuration dialog is now opened.
6. Adapt the settings of the configuration dialog as needed. Confirm your entries with "OK."
The insertion process for the ".NET Control" or "WPF Control" object is finished.

Alternative insertion procedure

1. Double click in the Object Palette on the smart object ".NET Control" or "WPF Control", in
order to insert it with the default properties into the process picture.
2. Select the required control in the "Insert a Control" and "Insert Type" dialog.

3.7.5

How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab

Introduction
Insert a control from the Object Palette into a process picture. You can insert controls as a
smart object or from the "Controls" tab. ActiveX controls, .NET controls and WPF controls are
available.

When WinCC has been installed, the "Controls" tab displays a preset selection of WinCC
controls under the ActiveX controls; initially there are no controls listed under ".NET Controls"
and "WPF Controls". You can configure this control selection if necessary.
When inserting the control from the "Controls" tab, select the required control at the beginning
of the insertion process in order to insert it directly into a process picture.
At the end of the insertion process a configuration dialog is usually opened, in which you adapt
the properties of the control. You can also open this dialog later by double-clicking the control.

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By default, WinCC uses the name of the control, linked with a continuous number, as the object
name. You can change this name with the "Object name" attribute in the "Object Properties"
window.

Procedure
1. In the Object Palette, click the "Controls" tab.
Select the control you want.
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the control to the desired size with the mouse.
With some controls, the corresponding configuration dialog is now opened.
4. Adapt the settings of the configuration dialog as required and confirm your entry with "OK".
The insertion process for the selected control is finished.

Alternative procedure
Double click in the object palette on the smart object Control, in order to insert it with the default
properties into the process picture.

See also
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

3.7.6

How to Resize a Control

Introduction
The size of an object is defined by the geometry of the rectangle surrounding the object. The
rectangle surrounding the control is symbolized when selecting an object by showing the
handles.
Controls can be resized by:
dragging the handle to a new position
Changing the values of the "Width" and "Height" attributes in the window "Object properties"

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Requirements
Select a control.

Procedure
1. Position the cursor on the handle of the selected control.
The mouse pointer will change to a double arrow. The alignment of the double arrow
indicates the directions in which you can move the handle:
Horizontal double arrow
The handles on the horizontal center axis can be used to change the width of the control.
Vertical double arrow
The handles on the vertical center axis can be used to change the height of the control.
Diagonal double arrow
The handles on the corners of the control can be used to change the height and width
of the control.
2. Use the mouse to drag the handle to the position you want.
In the settings of the Graphics Designer if the Snap to Grid function is activated, the control
can only be scaled with the mouse according to the settings for the grid.

See also
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

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3.7.7

How to Position a Control

Introduction
The position of a control is defined by the coordinates of the control origin. The left upper corner
of the rectangle surrounding the control is called the object origin. Controls can be positioned
by:
dragging the control to a new position
moving the selected control with the aid of the arrow keys for cursor control
Changing the "Position X" and "Position Y" attributes in the "Object Properties" window

Requirements
Select a control.

Procedure
1. Position the cursor on the selected control.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrowheads.
2. Click the control and hold down the left mouse button.
The cursor changes into an arrow with an outline icon (small rectangle with broken line).
3. Move the cursor.
The rectangle surrounding the control is displayed as broken and shows a possible new
position for the control. The control initially maintains its original position.
In the settings of the Graphics Designer if the Snap to Grid function is activated, the control
can only be positioned with the mouse according to the settings for the grid.
4. Release the mouse button.
The control is moved to the position previously displayed by the broken line of the rectangle
surrounding the object. The mouse pointer again changes into a crosshair with arrow ends.

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See also
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

3.7.8

This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette

Introduction
The "Controls" tab in the Object Palette of the Graphics Designer contains a selection of
controls in the folders "ActiveX Controls", ".NET Controls" and "WPF Controls". You can insert
these controls directly into a picture.
You can configure the selection of controls available in the tab yourself:
Change the selection of the ActiveX controls in the dialog "Select OCX Controls". You can
add any of the ActiveX controls registered in the operating system to the list of controls and
remove individual controls from the selection.
Change the selection of the .NET controls in the dialog "Select .NET Object".
Change the selection of the WPF controls in the dialog "Select WPF Object".
NOTICE
The use of controls from third party providers can lead to errors as well as drops in
performance or system blockage. The user of the software is responsible for problems
caused by the deployment of external controls.
We recommend a thorough test before implementation.

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Configuring ActiveX controls

1. Open the "Controls" tab and select the entry "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu of the
"ActiveX Controls" folder. The "Select OCX Controls" dialog is opened.

In the area "Available OCXs (Number)", the "Select OCX Controls" dialog shows all the
ActiveX Controls that are registered in the operating system. The exact number is shown
in the title of the area after the registration has been read in. A red check mark indicates
those controls that are available in the "Controls" tab dialog of the Object Palette. The path
and the program ID of the selected ActiveX Controls are displayed in the area "Details".
You can open the "Select OCX Controls" dialog also from the WinCC Explorer. Click on
the entry "Graphics Designer" in the navigation window and select the entry "Select ActiveX
Control" in the shortcut menu.
2. To add an ActiveX control to the Object Palette, select the desired control in the area
"Available OCX Controls".
A red check mark indicates that the control will be added to the "Controls" tab of the Object
Palette.
3. To remove an ActiveX control from the Object Palette, clear the control in question in the
area "Available OCX Controls".
The red check mark disappears.
4. Confirm your changes by clicking "OK".

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Configuring .NET objects and WPF objects

1. Open the "Controls" tab and select the entry "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu of the
".NET Controls" folder or the "WPF Controls" folder.
The dialog "Select .NET Object" or "Select WPF Object" opens.

In the area "Available Controls (Number)", the dialog shows all the .NET objects or WPF
objects on your computer. The precise number is displayed in the title of the area. A red
check mark indicates those controls that are available in the "Controls" tab dialog of the
Object Palette. The assembly, .NET version and path of the selected object are displayed
in the area "Details".
2. To add a control to the Object Palette, select the desired control in the area "Available
Controls".
A red check mark indicates that the control will be added to the "Controls" tab of the Object
Palette.
3. To remove a control from the Object Palette, clear the control in question in the area
"Available Controls".
The red check mark disappears.
4. Confirm your changes by clicking "OK".

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See also
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)
.NET controls (Page376)
WPF controls (Page377)

3.7.9

This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control

Introduction
ActiveX Controls must be configured in the operating system, in order to be available for
applications. Normally the registration is a component of the installation procedure. For
troubleshooting or also for upgrading of individual controls, you can also perform a registration
or deregistration manually. In WinCC you can edit the registration in the following dialogs:
Dialog "Select OCX Controls"
Use the button "Deregister OCX" and "Register OCX" ....
Dialog "Insert a Control"
Use the buttons "Register..." and "Deregister".
The procedure for changing the registration is the same in both dialogs. We will describe it
below in the example of the Insert a Control dialog.
NOTICE
You can use these buttons to change the settings of the operating system. Changes are
made immediately.
Before the deregistration of an ActiveX control, check in which path the related OCX file is
saved on the hard disk. How to facilitate a repeated registration of this control.

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Deregistering ActiveX Control

1. Insert a Control as a Smart Object.
The "Insert a Control" dialog is opened.
2. Select the desired Control in the selection list.

3. Check the details under the selection list (path and name).
4. Click on the button "Deregister".
The selected control is deregistered and deleted from the selection list. The related OCX
file is maintained in the specified path on the hard disk.

Registering ActiveX Control

1. Insert a Control as a smart object.
The "Insert a Control" dialog opens.
2. Click the "Register..." button.
You can use the Open dialog to open a browser window for the selection of the desired
OCX file.

3. Select the desired OCX file.

During the installation, WinCC Controls are normally copied into the folder "...\Siemens
\WinCC\BIN".
4. Click "OK" to confirm your choice.
The selected control is registered in the operating system and displayed in the selection
list of the "Insert a Control" dialog.

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See also
How to Change the Properties of a Control (Page334)
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

3.7.10

How to Change the Properties of a Control

Introduction
The properties of a control can be adopted according to your needs by:
Changing the attributes in the "Object Properties" dialog
Changing the settings in the Configuration dialog

Opening the "Object Properties" Window

In the pop-up menu of a control select the entry "Properties", in order to open the "Object
Properties" dialog. The change of an attribute is executed immediately.
The detailed description of the "Object Properties" dialog is found in chapter "The Window
Object Properties".

Opening the Configuration Dialog

Double-click a control to open the related configuration dialog. Select a tab to carry out the
desired changes. Click on "Accept" in order to assign the new settings to the control. Confirm
your configuration with "OK" to close the dialog.
The configuration dialogs are explained in the detailed description of the related control.

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See also
How to Resize a Control (Page326)
This is how you change the registration of an ActiveX control (Page332)
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)
How to Position a Control (Page328)
How to Insert a Control from the "Controls" Tab (Page325)
This is how you insert an ActiveX control as a smart object: (Page322)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

3.7.11

ActiveX controls

3.7.11.1

IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace Control

The "IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace" Control

Introduction
The control "IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace" allows the monitoring of the capacities available on a
storage medium.
Example: You archive measurement values and reports on a hard disk. Use the Disk Space
Control to configure the limits for the displaying of warning messages.

A displaying of the controlled values can be done in Runtime only.

Inserting Disk Space Control

Insert the Disk Space Control as Smart Object into a picture. The detailed description of the
insertion procedure can be found in the chapter "Insert control into a picture".

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The Disk Space Control is normally not displayed in the tab "Controls" of the Object Palette.
The Control can be accepted with the dialog "Select OCX Controls" in the tab "Controls". The
detailed description can be found in the chapter "Configure control selection of the Object
Palette".

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)
How to Control the Usage of Memory (Page338)
How to Configure the Disk Space Control (Page336)

How to Configure the Disk Space Control

Introduction
There is no configuration dialog for the Disk Space Control.
The properties of the control are changed in the "Object Properties" dialog.

Requirements
In the pop-up menu of a control select the entry "Properties" in order to open the "Object
Properties" dialog.
Select the property group "Control Properties".

Drive
Enter the letter of the drive which you want to control with the control.

Alarm, Warning, Tolerance

Specify the limit values for the control limits. The values are specified in percent. The values
are given in percent. The percent part of the occupied memory space is controlled at the total
capacity of the specified drive.

ToleranceColor, WarningColor, AlarmColor

Specify the colors in which the bar graph is shown as soon as the occupied memory space
has exceeded the respective control limit.

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Interval
Specify the interval for the update of the displayed measurement values. For the update an
interval of one minute up to 60 minutes can be defined freely.

Free, Used, Total

These attributes record the measurement values for the occupied and the free memory as well
as for the total capacity of the drive. The memory space is specified in kilobytes. The values
can be queried in Runtime. The values cannot be predefined.

UsedPercent, FreePercent
These two attributes record the measurement values for the occupied and the free memory in
percent. The values can be queried in Runtime. The values cannot be predefined.

See also
The "IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace" Control (Page335)
How to Control the Usage of Memory (Page338)

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How to Control the Usage of Memory

Introduction
The function of the Disk Space Control is explained by means of examples for the control of
five drives. Each drive is thereby controlled by a separate control.

In the Graphics Designer five Disk Space Controls were configured with the same limit values
and color assignments. These are displayed in the figure above as a multiple selection.
The object names of the controls are assigned according to the drives to be controlled:
DiskSpaceC, DiskSpaceD, DiskSpaceE, DiskSpaceH und DiskSpaceZ.
To provide a better overview, blue lines and labels have been added in the figure.
In this example the "Object Properties" window shows the following properties for the control
"DiskSpaceZ":

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Display of Disk Space Controls in Runtime

The monitored values can be displayed in Runtime only. The resulting graphs are shown in
the figure below:

The occupied memory space of drives C and Z are below the tolerance limit of 80%. The
occupied memory space is displayed in the color (green) configured for this limit.
Drive D with 87% occupied memory space has not exceeded the warning limit yet, but is above
the value for the tolerance limit. The drive is displayed in the color of the warning limit (yellow).
Above the warning limit the display of the value is in the color configured for the alarm limit
(red). The same applies to the drive H with a value of 91%.
Drive E shows the control of a CD-ROM drive. In this example there is no colored bar, since
there is currently no data medium in the drive.

Display of Memory Utilization

The display of the absolute values can be queried in Runtime by mouse control:
Move the mouse pointer onto the bar of the desired drive (here: drive D). The absolute values
of the usage of memory are shown as Quick Info.
The following is displayed:
1. "Drive": Letter code of the controlled drive
2. "Total": Total capacity of the drive in kilobytes
3. "UsedPercent": Used memory space as share in percent of the total
4. "FreePercent": Free memory space as share in percent of the total

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See also
The "IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace" Control (Page335)
How to Configure the Disk Space Control (Page336)

3.7.11.2

Siemens HMI Symbol Library

The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Control

Introduction
The control "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" contains a comprehensive collection of prepared
symbols. These symbols can be used for the display of systems and system components in
process pictures.

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Inserting Symbols of the Symbol Library

The symbols of the Symbol Library are inserted into a picture as a control from the Object
Palette or from the library of the Graphics Designer:
As a Smart Object:
The Smart Object "Control" is inserted from the "Standard" tab of the Object Palette. The
Symbol Library is selected in the dialog "Insert a Control".
The selection of the desired symbols is done after the insertion procedure in the
configuration dialog which is opened by double-clicking the control.
from the tab "Controls"
The control Siemens HMI Symbol Library is inserted directly from the "Controls" tab of the
Object Palette.
The selection of the desired symbols is done after the insertion procedure in the
configuration dialog which is opened by double-clicking the control.
From the library of the Graphics Designer:
The control Siemens HMI Symbol Library is integrated as a unique folder into the library of
the Graphics Designer.
The desired symbol is selected directly and inserted from the library. The properties of the
symbols can be changed in the configuration dialog, which is opened by double-clicking
the symbol.

Changing the Symbols of the Symbol Library

The properties of the symbols of the Symbol Library can be changed in the window "Object
Properties" and in the configuration dialog "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library".
The window "Object Properties" is opened from the pop-up menu of the inserted object. The
dialog "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library" is opened by double-clicking the symbol
to be changed.

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)
How to Change the Colors (Page347)
How to Change the Display Options (Page345)
How to Change the Alignment (Page343)
How to Select a Symbol from the Symbol Library (Page342)
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How to Select a Symbol from the Symbol Library

Introduction
You can use the "Symbols" tab in the Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library dialog to
replace the displayed symbol with another. The picture contents of the selected symbols is
changed by the selection of another symbol of the Symbol Library. The other properties of the
selected symbols are not changed.

Requirements
The "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog is opened by double-clicking the
symbol to be changed.
Select the "Symbols" tab.

Preview
In the area at the top left, the symbol selected in the selection will be displayed. All settings of
the "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog are displayed in the preview.

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Categories
In the area at the bottom left all categories containing symbols of the Symbol Library are
displayed.
Select the category that contains the desired symbol. All symbols of the selected category are
displayed in the selection.

Selection
The right area displays all the symbols available for the selected category.
Position the mouse pointer on a symbol, to show a short description.
Click on the desired symbol to select it. The selected symbol is displayed in the preview.

See also
How to Change the Colors (Page347)
The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Control (Page340)
How to Change the Display Options (Page345)
How to Change the Alignment (Page343)

How to Change the Alignment

Introduction
You can use the "Style" tab in the Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library dialog to set
different options. The display and the alignment of the selected symbols can be customized.
In the area at the top left, the symbol selected in the "Symbols" tab is displayed. All settings
of the "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog are displayed in the preview.

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Requirements
The "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog is opened by double-clicking the
symbol to be changed.
Select the "Style" tab.

Alignment
In the bottom left area the alignment of the symbol in the current picture can be changed. The
symbol can be mirrored and rotated.

Mirroring
Open the drop-down list box and select the desired mirroring type.
The picture content is mirrored on the horizontal or vertical central axis of the symbol
respectively. Objects can be mirrored both horizontally and vertically.

Rotation
Open the drop-down list box and select the desired angle for the rotation.
The rotation of the picture contents is done around the central axis of the symbol. The rotation
is done counter-clockwise in steps of 90, 180 and 270 degrees.

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See also
The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Control (Page340)
How to Change the Colors (Page347)
How to Change the Display Options (Page345)
How to Select a Symbol from the Symbol Library (Page342)

How to Change the Display Options

Introduction
You can use the "Style" tab in the Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library dialog to set
different options. The display and the alignment of the selected symbols can be customized.
In the area at the top left, the symbol selected in the "Symbols" tab is displayed. All settings
of the "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog are displayed in the preview.

Requirements
The "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog is opened by double-clicking the
symbol to be changed.
Select the "Style" tab.

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Display
Open the drop-down list box and select the desired appearance form for the picture contents.

Original
The appearance form of the symbol corresponds to the multi-colored display in the selection
of the "Symbols" tab.

Shadow
Lines of the color "Black" are maintained as contour lines. Elements of the symbols in other
colors are displayed as light grades of the current foreground color.

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Solid
Lines of the color "Black" are maintained as contour lines. All the elements of the symbol in
other colors are assigned the color value of the current foreground color.

Outline
Lines of the color "Black" are maintained as contour lines. All the elements of the symbol in
other colors are assigned the color value of the current background color.

Background
Open the drop-down list box and select the desired background type.
The background can be displayed either "Nontransparent" or "Transparent".

Customizing
Click on the control box next to the "Customize" option, in order to enable or to disable the
option.
When selecting the "Customize" option, the picture contents are adapted to the object size of
the selected symbol.

Display Mouse Pointer

Click on the control box next to the Customize option, in order to enable or to disable the
option.
When selecting the Display Mouse Pointer option, the mouse pointer is not hidden in Runtime,
if it is placed on the symbol.

See also
The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Control (Page340)
How to Change the Colors (Page347)
How to Change the Alignment (Page343)
How to Select a Symbol from the Symbol Library (Page342)

How to Change the Colors

Introduction
Using the "Color" tab in the Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library dialog you can set
different color settings for the display of the selected symbol.

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Requirements
The "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library" dialog is opened by double-clicking the
symbol to be changed.
Select the "Color" tab.

Properties
Select the color attribute you wish to change.
The "Flashing Color" acquires the symbol in the flashing status. The flashing is only visible in
Runtime. With the "Background Color" you can display the background of the symbol for the
background type "Nontransparent". In the appearance forms of "Shadow" and "Solid", the
symbol is shown in the Foreground Color.

Color group
Select one of the color groups in the drop-down list box. The related colors are displayed in
the "Color Palette" section.
The "Standard Colors" color group contains the 16 standard colors of the operating system.
The "Windows System Colors" color group contains the colors which are set in the operating
system currently as the display options at system start.

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Color palette
Select the desired color. Click "Accept" in order to assign the new color to the selected color
attribute.

Editing Custom Colors

Click on this button to access the "Colors" dialog. Depending on the graphic settings of the
operating system you can define the desired color freely.

See also
The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Control (Page340)
How to Change the Display Options (Page345)
How to Change the Alignment (Page343)
How to Select a Symbol from the Symbol Library (Page342)

3.7.11.3

WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control

The "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" Control'

Introduction
With the "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" control you can integrate a time display into a
process picture. In Runtime the current system time of the operating system is displayed.
The time can be displayed as analog or digital. In addition, the digital display contains the
current date.

Inserting a Clock Control

The clock control is inserted from the object palette into a picture:
As a Smart Object:
The Smart Object "Control" is inserted from the "Standard" tab of the Object Palette. The
Clock Control is selected in the dialog "Insert a Control".
from the tab "Controls"
The Smart Object Control is inserted from the "Controls" tab of the Object Palette.
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The properties of the control are changed in the configuration dialog "Properties of the WinCC
Digital/Analog Clock Control" or in the window "Object Properties".

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)
How to Change the Background Picture of the Clock Control (Page354)
How to Change the Color of the Clock Control (Page352)
How to Change the Font of the Digital Clock Control Display (Page351)
How to Change the Appearance of the Clock Control (Page350)

How to Change the Appearance of the Clock Control

Introduction
In the "General" tab, you have the option to set the general appearance of the clock control.
In addition, the geometry of the pointers can be changed.

Requirements
Double-click the control to open the "Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Control" dialog.
Click on the "General" tab.

Pointer width in %
For the analog display you can set the width of the second, minute and hour pointer. The values
are understood as percent share of the pointer length.
You can only set the pointer width in the classic design. The static values and the configured
dynamic properties have no effect on the new design.

Pointer length in %
For the analog display you can set the length of the second, minute and hour pointer. The
values are understood as percent share of the radius of the dial.

Analog display
Choose between analog and digital display of the clock.

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Dial
Hide or unhide the hour marks for the analog display.

Square
Select whether the analog clock is to be displayed in square shape.

Line pointer
Specify whether for the analog display only the border or also the filling color of the pointer will
be displayed.

Background style
Select "Nontransparent" in order to display the analog clock with a frame. With "Transparent
border" the colored dial is displayed without a border. Select "Transparent", in order to display
the analog clock without background.

See also
The "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" Control' (Page349)
How to Change the Background Picture of the Clock Control (Page354)
How to Change the Color of the Clock Control (Page352)
How to Change the Font of the Digital Clock Control Display (Page351)

How to Change the Font of the Digital Clock Control Display

Introduction
You can use the "Font" tab to adapt the font to the digital display of the clock. This setting has
no effect on the analog display of the Clock Control.

Requirements
Double-click the control to open the "Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Control" dialog.
Select the "Font" tab.

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Properties
The currently selected property is shown.

Font
Select the desired font for the digital display of the clock from the drop-down list box. You can
use any of the fonts registered in the operating system.

Font size
Select the desired font size for the digital display of the clock from the drop-down list box.
Alternatively, enter the font size directly in the field. The value is specified in points (pt).

Display
Select one or more display options.
The selected font can be displayed in "Bold", "Italic", "Underline" and "Strikethrough".

Sample Text
The selected settings are displayed in a preview.

See also
The "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" Control' (Page349)
How to Change the Background Picture of the Clock Control (Page354)
How to Change the Color of the Clock Control (Page352)
How to Change the Appearance of the Clock Control (Page350)

How to Change the Color of the Clock Control

Introduction
You can use the "Color" tab to adapt the color to the digital display of the clock. For the digital
display of the Clock Controls only the color attribute "Foreground color" (font color) is relevant.

Requirements
Double-click the control to open the "Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Control" dialog.
Select the "Color" tab.

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Properties
Select the color attribute you wish to change.

Color group
Select one of the color groups in the drop-down list box. The related colors are displayed in
the "Color Palette" section.
The "Standard Colors" color group contains the 16 standard colors of the operating system.
The "Windows System Colors" color group contains the colors which are set in the operating
system currently as the display options at system start.

Color palette
Select the desired color. Click "Accept" in order to assign the new color to the selected color
attribute.

Editing Custom Colors

Click on this button to access the "Colors" dialog. Depending on the graphic settings of the
operating system you can define the desired color freely.

See also
The "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" Control' (Page349)
How to Change the Background Picture of the Clock Control (Page354)
How to Change the Font of the Digital Clock Control Display (Page351)
How to Change the Appearance of the Clock Control (Page350)

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How to Change the Background Picture of the Clock Control

Introduction
You can use the "Picture" tab, to assign a background picture to the analog or digital display
of the clock. The current picture is shown in the "Preview" area.

Requirements
Double-click the control to open the "Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Control" dialog.
Select the "Picture" tab.

Browsing
Click the "Browse..." button to access the "Find Picture" dialog. Select the graphic file, to which
you want to assign the selected property.
Pictures in the following formats can be inserted:
BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.

Deleting
Click the "Clear" button to move on from the opening picture.

See also
The "WinCC Digital/Analog Clock" Control' (Page349)
How to Change the Color of the Clock Control (Page352)
How to Change the Font of the Digital Clock Control Display (Page351)
How to Change the Appearance of the Clock Control (Page350)

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3.7.11.4

WinCC Gauge Control

The "WinCC Gauge" Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Gauge" control is used to display the monitored measurement values in the form
of an analog measurement clock. Warning and danger areas as well as the extreme values of
the pointer movement can be marked in colors.

Inserting Gauge Control

The gauge control is inserted from the object palette into a picture:
As a smart object:
The Smart Object "Control" is inserted from the "Standard" tab of the Object Palette. The
Control is selected in the dialog "Insert a Control".
From the "Controls" tab
The Gauge Control is inserted from the "Controls" tab of the Object Palette.

Changing Important Properties

The properties of the control are changed in the configuration dialog "Properties of the WinCC
Gauge Control" or in the window "Object Properties".
The following attributes can be changed only in the window "Object Properties":

Labeling
Enter a text to be displayed, for example the type of the controlled value on the gauge. As a
standard, you must enter the label "SIMATIC".

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Unit text
Enter a text to display, for example, the physical unit of the displayed value on the gauge. By
default, this field is blank.

Unit offset
Specify the position for the display of the physical unit on the gauge. The value is given in
decimal format. The value is the percent share of the object height, starting from the topmost
border line of the rectangle encompassing the object.

See also
How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control (Page357)
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)
How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control (Page363)
How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control (Page361)
How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control (Page360)
How to Mark Special Value Ranges (Page359)
How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control (Page356)

How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control

Introduction
On the "General" tab, you have the option to adapt the general appearance of the Gauge
Control.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "Properties of WinCC Gauge Control" dialog.
Click on the "General" tab.

Center Point Size

Specify the radius for the display of the center point The value is given in decimal format as
percent share of the diameter of the gauge.

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Labeling Offset
Specify the position for the labeling of the gauge. The value is given in decimal format. The
value is the percent share of the object height, starting from the topmost border line of the
rectangle encompassing the object.

Slave Pointer
For the maximum and the minimum pointer movement a marker function can be activated,
which marks the real measurement area in Runtime with colored lines:
A green line marks the minimum pointer movement.
A red line marks the maximum pointer movement.

Square
Select whether the gauge is to be displayed in square shape.

Background Style
Select "Nontransparent" in order to display the gauge clock with a frame. "Transparent Border"
hides the frame. With "Transparent", only the scale of the gauge will be displayed.

Mouse Control
The mouse pointer can be shown in Runtime, if it is placed on the symbol.

See also
The "WinCC Gauge" Control (Page355)
How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control (Page363)
How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control (Page361)
How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control (Page360)
How to Mark Special Value Ranges (Page359)
How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control (Page357)

How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control

Introduction
On the "General" tab, you can set the measuring range to be monitored. In addition, you can
configure the display of the scale.

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Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "Properties of WinCC Gauge Control" dialog.
Click on the "General" tab.

Minimum value
Enter the lower limit value of the measuring range. This value is shown as the min. scale value.

Maximum value
Enter the upper limit value of the measuring range. This value is shown as the max. scale
value.

Value
Specify a start value for the pointer of the gauge. If process driver connections are missing,
this value is shown in Runtime.

Minimum Angle
Enter the angle for the display at the scale start. The value is entered in degrees.

Maximum Angle
Enter the angle for the display at the scale end. The value is entered in degrees.

Tick Width
Enter the distance of the main tick marks as the difference of two neighboring measurements.
The area between two main tick marks is divided by default by a wider tick mark of half the
length.

Scale Width
Specify the length of the main tick marks and thus the width of the scale. The value is given
in decimal format as percent share of the radius of the gauge.

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Scale Offset
Specify the outer radius of the scale. The value is given in decimal format as percent share of
the radius of the gauge.

Tick Text Offset

Specify the inner radius of the scale labeling. The value is given in decimal format as percent
share of the radius of the gauge.

Decimal point
The values of the scale labeling can be displayed as whole numbers or as decimal numbers
with one decimal place.

See also
How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control (Page363)
How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control (Page361)
How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control (Page360)
How to Mark Special Value Ranges (Page359)
How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control (Page356)

How to Mark Special Value Ranges

Introduction
You can use the "General" tab to highlight special range of values in the scale in colors.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "Properties of WinCC Gauge Control" dialog.
Click on the "General" tab.

Danger
Set the limit value for the start of the danger area.

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Warning
Set the limit value for the start of the warning area.

Danger Display
The scale area starting at the limit value "Danger" can be shown in the "Danger color" (default
color: red).

Warning Display
The scale area starting at the limit value "Warning" can be shown in the "Warning color" (default
color: yellow).

Normal Display
The scale area ending at the limit value "Warning" can be shown in the "Normal color" (default
color: green).

See also
The "WinCC Gauge" Control (Page355)
How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control (Page363)
How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control (Page361)
How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control (Page360)
How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control (Page357)
How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control (Page356)

How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control

Introduction
You can use the tab "Font" to adapt the fonts for the different labeling elements of the gauge.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "Properties of WinCC Gauge Control" dialog.
Select the "Font" tab.

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Properties
Select the font attribute you wish to change.
Select "Labeling font", in order to change the font for the name of the gauge. "Unit font" changes
the font for the display of the physical unit. You can configure the scale labeling with the "Scale
text font".

Font
Select from the drop-down list box the desired font for the selected labeling attribute. You can
use any of the fonts registered in the operating system.

Font size
Select from the drop-down list box the desired font size for the selected labeling attribute.
Alternatively, enter the font size directly in the field. The value is specified in points (pt).

Display
Select one or more display options.
The selected font can be displayed in "Bold", "Italic", "Underline" and "Strikethrough".

Sample Text
The selected settings are displayed in a preview.

See also
The "WinCC Gauge" Control (Page355)
How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control (Page363)
How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control (Page361)
How to Mark Special Value Ranges (Page359)
How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control (Page357)
How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control (Page356)

How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control

Introduction
You can use the "Color" tab to adapt the color for the display of the Gauge Control.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "Properties of WinCC Gauge Control" dialog.
Select the "Color" tab.
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Properties
Select the color attribute you wish to change.

Color group
Select one of the color groups in the drop-down list box. The related colors are displayed in
the "Color Palette" section.
The "Standard Colors" color group contains the 16 standard colors of the operating system.
The "Windows System Colors" color group contains the colors which are set in the operating
system currently as the display options at system start.

Color palette
Select the desired color. Click "Accept" in order to assign the new color to the selected color
attribute.

Editing Custom Colors

Click on this button to access the "Colors" dialog. Depending on the graphic settings of the
operating system you can define the desired color freely.

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See also
The "WinCC Gauge" Control (Page355)
How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control (Page363)
How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control (Page360)
How to Mark Special Value Ranges (Page359)
How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control (Page357)
How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control (Page356)

How to Assign Pictures to the Gauge Control

Introduction
You can use the tab "Picture" to assign a background and a frame image to the Gauge.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "Properties of WinCC Gauge Control" dialog.
Select the "Picture" tab.

Properties
Select the property for which you want to change the picture assignment. The current picture
is shown in the "Preview" area.
With the "background picture" option you can assign an image to the circular background of
the gauge. With the "Frame picture" option you can assign an image to the rectangular
background of the Control.

Browsing
Click the "Browse..." button to access the "Find Picture" dialog. Select the graphic file, to which
you want to assign the selected property.
Pictures in the following formats can be inserted:
BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.

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Deleting
Click the "Clear" button to move on from the opening picture.

See also
How to Change the Font of the Gauge Control (Page360)
The "WinCC Gauge" Control (Page355)
How to Change the Colors of the Gauge Control (Page361)
How to Mark Special Value Ranges (Page359)
How to Configure the Scale of the Gauge Control (Page357)
How to change the Appearance of the Gauge Control (Page356)

3.7.11.5

WinCC Media Control

WinCC Media Control

Introduction
You can use WinCC to also integrate multimedia files as controls into your pictures. This is
what WinCC Media Control is used for.
The WinCC Media Control can display the following file formats: GIF, BMP, JPG, JPEG, PNG.
The WinCC Media Control can play the following file formats: ASF, WMV, AVI, MPG, MPEG,
MP4, QT. The control can only play the formats that the MediaPlayer plays.
NOTICE
Data loss when coping the project
If you copy the project to a different computer, the multimedia files specified in the WinCC
Media Control will not be copied along with it. You will need to add them to the project again.

Inserting WinCC Media Control

Insert the WinCC Media Control from the Object Palette into a picture.
Drag the smart object "Control" on the "Standard" tab into the picture and select the WinCC
Media Control.
- or On the "Controls" tab, double-click "WinCC Media Control".
A placeholder for the WinCC Media Control is inserted in the picture:

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To configure the WinCC Media Control, double-click it to open the configuration dialog "WinCC
Media Control Properties". Enter the required information on the file to be played and for display
of the Media Control.
The WinCC Media Control will then be displayed differently:

Runtime
The user can display or play the specified multimedia file with the help of the control elements
in Runtime.

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

This is how you configure the WinCC Media Control:

Introduction
The WinCC Media Control can be used to display or play multimedia files in Runtime.

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Procedure
1. Double-click the object "WinCC Media Control".
The "Properties of WinCC Media Control" dialog is opened.

Note
If you want to dynamize the attributes, you have to open the object properties with the
"Properties" entry in the shortcut menu.
2. Enter the path and file name of the file to be displayed or played under "General" or look
for the file after clicking the button "...".
Depending on the media type entered, you can select different options.
3. For pictures, set whether the picture should be adapted to the control or whether the control
should be adapted to the picture.

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4. For films, set the playback format and playback options.
The option "Skip interval" is used to set the interval for forward or backward skip.

5. On the "View" tab, define the display of the WinCC Media Control for playing multimedia
files.
In runtime the WinCC Media Control is displayed with the selected display and operator
controls.

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3.7.11.6

WinCC Slider Control

The "WinCC Slider" Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Slider" control can be used to display the monitored measurement values in
the form of a slider control. The current value can be displayed under the slider and the
controlled measurement area can be displayed as scale labeling.

Inserting Slider Control

The slider control is inserted from the object palette into a picture:
As a smart object:
The Smart Object "Control" is inserted from the "Standard" tab of the Object Palette. The
Slider Control is selected in the dialog "Insert a Control".
From the "Controls" tab
The Slider Control is inserted from the "Controls" tab of the Object Palette.
The properties of the control are changed in the configuration dialog "Properties of the WinCC
Slider Control" or in the window "Object Properties".

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)
How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control (Page375)
How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control (Page373)
How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control (Page372)
How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control (Page371)
How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control (Page370)
How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control (Page369)

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How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control

Introduction
On the "General" tab, you have the option to adapt the general appearance of the Slider Control.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "WinCC Slider Control Properties" dialog.
Click the "General" tab.

Axis Label
The tick marks of the scale can be labeled with measurement values. The step size is set
depending on the specified measurement area and the size of the control automatically.

Scaling
On the left side of the slider tick marks can be shown for the display of a scale.

Position Text
The value of the current position of the slider can be displayed under the slider.

Slider
The slider can be hidden.

Bar Graph
The display of the sliding areas above and below the slider can be hidden.

Transparent
The background of the control can be displayed transparent. The configured background color
is hidden.

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See also
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control (Page375)
How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control (Page373)
How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control (Page372)
How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control (Page371)
How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control (Page370)

How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control
Introduction
On the "General" tab, you can set the measuring range to be monitored. In addition, you can
also enter a function description as a label of the Push Button.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "WinCC Slider Control Properties" dialog.
Click the "General" tab.

Labeling
Enter a text to be displayed, for example the type of the controlled value at the slider. As a
standard, you must enter the label "SIMATIC".

Minimum value
Enter the lower limit value of the measuring range. This value is shown as the min. scale value
of the slider control.

Maximum value
Enter the upper limit value of the measuring range. This value is shown as the max. scale
value of the slider control.

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Value
Specify a start value for the position of the slider gauge. If the Process Driver Connection is
missing, the slider is displayed at this position in Runtime.

See also
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control (Page375)
How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control (Page373)
How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control (Page372)
How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control (Page371)
How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control (Page369)

How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control

Introduction
On the "3D Effects" tab, you can choose the style and width for the 3D display of borders and
scales.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "WinCC Slider Control Properties" dialog.
Select the "3D-Effects" tab.

Style
Select a style for the display of the inner and outer frame as well as the scale.
The border of the Slider Control consists of the three elements outer frame, border and inner
frame. A 3D effect is created by the two-colored display of the outer and inner frames as well
as the tick marks of the scaling.
The styles "Depressed" and "Raised" can be distinguished by the changed alignment of the
two color attributes "Upper Frame color" and "Bottom Frame Color". The "Border" style for the
scale has the effect that the elements are displayed single-colored.

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Width
Enter a value for the width of the border elements in pixel(s).

See also
How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control (Page372)
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control (Page375)
How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control (Page373)
How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control (Page370)
How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control (Page369)

How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control

Introduction
You can use the tab "Font" to adapt the fonts for the different labeling elements of the Slider
Control.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "WinCC Slider Control Properties" dialog.
Select the "Font" tab.

Changing Configuration

Properties
Select the font attribute you wish to change.
With the "Position font" option, you can change the display of the value, which is displayed by
the current position of the slider. A change of the attribute "Font" affects the labeling of the
control and the scale.

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Font
Select from the drop-down list box the desired font for the selected labeling attribute. You can
use any of the fonts registered in the operating system.

Font size
Select from the drop-down list box the desired font size for the selected labeling attribute.
Alternatively, enter the font size directly in the field. The value is specified in points (pt).

Display
Select one or more display options.
The selected font can be displayed in "Bold", "Italic", "Underline" and "Strikethrough".

Sample Text
The selected settings are displayed in a preview.

See also
How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control (Page369)
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control (Page375)
How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control (Page373)
How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control (Page371)
How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control (Page370)

How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control

Introduction
You can use the "Color" tab to adapt the color for the display of the Slider Control.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "WinCC Slider Control Properties" dialog.
Select the "Color" tab.

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Properties
Select the color attribute you wish to change.

Color group
Select one of the color groups in the drop-down list box. The related colors are displayed in
the "Color Palette" section.
The "Standard Colors" color group contains the 16 standard colors of the operating system.
The "Windows System Colors" color group contains the colors which are set in the operating
system currently as the display options at system start.

Color palette
Select the desired color. Click "Accept" in order to assign the new color to the selected color
attribute.

Editing Custom Colors

Click this button to access the "Colors" dialog. Depending on the graphic settings of the
operating system you can define the desired color freely.

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See also
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control (Page375)
How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control (Page372)
How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control (Page371)
How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control (Page370)
How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control (Page369)

How to Assign Pictures to the Slider Control

Introduction
On the "Picture" tab, you can assign pictures to the Slider Control for the display of the
background and the slider.

Requirements
Double-click the inserted control to open the "WinCC Slider Control Properties" dialog.
Select the "Picture" tab.

Changing Configuration

Properties
Select the property for which you want to change the picture assignment. The current picture
is shown in the "Preview" area.
With the "Background picture" option, you can assign an image to the background of the
Control. With "Slider picture", you have the option to display an image on the slider.

Browsing
Click the "Browse..." button to access the "Find Picture" dialog. Select the graphic file, to which
you want to assign the selected property.
Pictures in the following formats can be inserted:
BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.

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Deleting
Click the "Clear" button to move on from the opening picture.

See also
The "WinCC Slider" Control (Page368)
How to Change the Colors of the Slider Control (Page373)
How to Change the Fonts of the Slider Control (Page372)
How to Change the 3D Effects of the Slider Control (Page371)
How to Change the Measurement Area and Labeling of the Slider Control (Page370)
How to Change the Appearance of the Slider Control (Page369)

3.7.12

.NET controls

Introduction
Together with WinCC, the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 is also installed. This enables you
to integrate .NET applications (assemblies) as controls in your pictures. This is what the
container for the .NET controls is used for.
NOTICE
The user of the software is responsible for problems caused by the deployment of external
controls.
We recommend testing for safe operation before implementation.

Inserting a .NET control

Insert a .NET control from the Object Palette into a process picture. You can insert the control
as a smart object or from the "Controls" tab.
When inserting the control as a smart object, select the required control in the "Insert a
Control" dialog. All the controls which were configured for selection are displayed here.
After selecting the control, define the type.
At the end of the insertion process, normally a configuration dialog is opened, in which you
adapt the properties of the control. You can also open this dialog later by double-clicking
the control.
When you insert the control from the "Controls" tab, only the controls which you added to
the Object Palette are available. Click the required control and draw a rectangular in the
picture for the control. Then define the type.
Configure the control selection with the "Add .NET Object" dialog.

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Note
For multi-user projects, the ".Net Control" must be saved locally on each client. You have
saved a ".Net Control" on the server under "C:\Controls" and added a ".Net Control" to the
project. Then you have to save the ".Net Control" to the associated clients under "C:\Controls"
or under "C:\Program Files\Common Files\Siemens\Assemblies." Create the "Assemblies"
folder.

See also
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)

3.7.13

WPF controls

Introduction
Together with WinCC, the Microsoft .NET Framework 3.0 is also installed. This enables you
to integrate .WPF files as controls in your pictures. This is what the container for the .WPF
(WPF = Windows Presentation Framework) controls is used for.
NOTICE
The user of the software is responsible for problems caused by the deployment of external
controls.
We recommend testing for safe operation before implementation.

Inserting a .WPF control

Insert a WPF control from the Object Palette into a process picture. You can insert the control
as a smart object or from the "Controls" tab.
When inserting the control as a smart object, select the required control in the "Insert a
Control" dialog. All the controls which were configured for selection are displayed here.
Then define the type.
At the end of the insertion process normally a configuration dialog is opened, in which you
adapt the properties of the control. You can also open this dialog later by double-clicking
the control.
When you insert the control from the "Controls" tab, only the controls which you added to
the Object Palette are available. Click the required control and draw a rectangular in the
picture for the control. Then define the type.
Configure the control selection in the Object Palette with the "Add WPF Object" dialog.

See also
This is how you configure the Control selection of the Object Palette (Page329)

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3.8

Working with Objects

3.8.1

Working with Objects

Introduction
You will find the following information in this chapter:
The basic functions of the Graphics Designer for working with objects
The features of the individual objects
How to use objects to create process pictures
How to specifically change object properties

Objects of the Object Palette

"Objects" in the Graphics Designer are the predefined graphic elements that enable efficient
creation of process pictures. You can easily insert all objects into a picture from the object
palette. The "Default" register tab of the Object Palette provides the objects in the following
four object groups:
Standard objects

Smart objects

Windows objects

Tube objects

Line
polygon
polygon line
ellipse
circle
ellipse segment
circle segment
ellipse arc
circle arc
rectangle
rounded rectangle
static text
connector

Application window
Picture window
Control
OLE object
I/O Field
Bar
Graphic object
Status display
Text list
Multi-line text
Combobox
List box
Faceplate instance
.NET control
WPF control
3D bar
Group display
Status display (Ext.)
Analog display (Ext.)

Button
Check Box
Radio Box
Round button
Slider object

Polygon tube
T-piece
Double T-piece
Tube bend

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Combined Objects
You can combine the objects of the object palette with one another by creating a "Group" or
a "Faceplate type" from a multiple selection.
You can prepare a Faceplate type can for reuse as a Faceplate instance in other process
pictures or projects.
You can insert a group into the project library and prepare it as a "Library object" for reusing
in other process pictures or projects.

See also
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
Working with Controls (Page319)

3.8.2

How to change the default setting of object types

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer, the various object types have default properties. If an object from
the Object Palette is inserted in a picture, the object adapts to these default settings.
You can adapt default settings for individual object types to your requirements. We recommend
that you make predefined settings for objects with multiple application before creating a
process picture. This is how to limit the scope for later adaptation.
There is an extensive description on backing up default settings in the chapter The" Graphics
Designer Basic Settings".
This section shows the general procedure to view the default setting for the object types.
Changing the default properties is based on changing the individual attributes of an object.
There is an extensive description on changing attributes can be found in the chapter "The
Properties of an Object".
Note
You can also define the design and colors of object types for an entire project. More
information on this is found under "Global object design" and "How to change the color
scheme of an object type".

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Note
The default setting for the object types applies across the project. The changed default
settings only apply to the images of the currently opened WinCC project. The basic settings
of the Graphics Designer are not changed here.

Prerequisites
A picture must be opened. This picture can also be empty.

Procedure
1. Right-click in the object palette on the the object type whose default setting you want to
change.
2. Choose the "Properties" option from the shortcut menu.
The "Object properties" window opens. The name if the object type with the additional
"Default" is displayed toolbar of this window.
3. Select the property group in the "Properties" tab that contains the attribute you want to
change.
Changing attributes in described extensively in the section "Change attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
Managing the default settings of objects (Page267)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
The Object Palette (Page238)
Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page228)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3

Basic Static Operations

3.8.3.1

Basic Static Operations

Introduction
To create a process picture, the required objects must be inserted from the Graphics Designer
object palette into a picture. These objects are then dynamically linked suitably to a process
to use the process picture to control and monitor processes.
This chapter introduces the basic static operations with which objects are inserted and
arranged in the picture.

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See also
How to position objects (Page390)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
You can change the text contents of objects (Page405)
You can link the tag connection of objects (Page418)
How to change the position of an object (Page403)
How to duplicate objects (Page402)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to copy objects (Page400)
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to delete objects (Page398)
How to rotate the objects (Page396)
How to mirror the objects (Page395)
How to scale an object (Page393)
How to Align Multiple Objects (Page392)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to Rename Objects (Page383)
How to insert an object into a picture (Page382)

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3.8.3.2

How to insert an object into a picture

Introduction
The objects which should form a process and a subprocess in a process picture are inserted
from the Graphics Designer object palette into a picture.

In the Graphics Designer, the various object types have default properties. When they are
inserted the objects import these default properties (except for individual geometric properties).
After insertion the properties of an object can be modified. In the same way the default settings
for the object types can be modified as required.
When inserting an object, an object name is automatically assigned. The name of the object
type is linked with a continuous number as the object name. No special characters are used
in the object name. You change the object name using the "Object Name" attribute.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
The example of the standard object "Rectangle" is used here to show the general procedure
as to how to insert an object in a picture. Some object types require additional steps. You can
learn more about these additional steps in the detailed description of the individual objects.
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an object.
2. Click the "Rectangle" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
rectangle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.

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Hold down the mouse button and drag the rectangle to the required size.
As soon as you release the mouse, the rectangle is added.

Alternative Operation
Double-click the required object in the object palette. The new object is inserted close to the
picture origin. The properties of the new object correspond to the default settings for the
selected object type.

See also
How to Rename Objects (Page383)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to position objects (Page390)
How to scale an object (Page393)
How to delete objects (Page398)
How to copy objects (Page400)
How to copy objects to another picture (Page298)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
The Object Palette (Page238)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.3

How to Rename Objects

Introduction
The "Object Name" attribute specifies the name of an object in the picture. The object name
is unique within a picture. The name of the object is used for example in configuring C actions
to call the object.
When an object is inserted, the object name assigned as standard is the description of the
object type with a consecutive number. This name can be changed using the "Object Name"
attribute.
Note
Avoid special characters in object names of these object names are used in scripts.

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Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" window.
2. On the "Properties" tab select the entry for the selected object type to which the property
groups of the object are subordinate.
3. Double-click the "Object name" attribute.
The "Text entry" dialog will open.
4. Enter the new name.
5. Click "OK" to confirm your entries.

See also
How to insert an object into a picture (Page382)
How to select an object (Page385)
Illegal Characters (Page152)
The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window (Page426)
The Object Palette (Page238)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

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3.8.3.4

How to select an object

Introduction
To change the properties of an object, the object must be selected.

Requirements
The active picture must contain at least one object.

Procedure
1. Position the cursor on the required object.
2. Click the object.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrowheads.
The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object appear.

Alternative Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" window.
2. On the toolbar of the window, open the drop-down list field to select the object.
3. Select the desired object.
The handles of the object are displayed.

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See also
How to select an object (Page385)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.5

Multiple Selection of Objects

Introduction
In order to change the properties of several objects at the same time, you must select all desired
objects. You do this using "Multiple selection".
All attributes of the selected objects are shown in the "Object properties" window for a multiple
selection. For an attribute however, a value is only displayed if it is the same for all selected
objects that have this attribute.
Along with "selection borders" and the "reference object", a multiple selection has two
characteristics which play an important role, for example for the common alignment of the
selected objects. These characteristics are however not visible in the Graphics Designer.

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Selection Frame of a Multiple Selection

The selection border encloses all objects in a multiple selection, comparable to the rectangle
surrounding individual objects. The selection border is known as a lasso.

The position and size of the selection border are dependent on the position of the selected
object. The midpoint of the selection border corresponds to the common midpoint of the
selected objects. The limit line of the selection border touches the outer edges of those objects
which have the greatest distance from the common midpoint.
The selection border is not visible. After finishing the multiple selection, only the handles of
the individual objects will be shown.

Reference object of a multiple selection

One of the selected objects has to be used as a reference object for aligning objects of the
multiple selection: For example, if the "Same width" function is selected in the Alignment
palette, then all selected objects will be set to the same width as the respective reference
object.
The object to be used as a reference object depends on the type of multiple selection and on
the function selected in the alignment palette:

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Selection type

Selection borders

<Shift> + left mouse button

<Ctrl + A>

Function

Reference object is:

Reference object is:

Reference object is:

Aligning

the outermost object

the object selected first

the reference object that is used

until the selection;
otherwise the outermost object

Center

the common center axis of the selected object

Distribute

No reference object

Match width or
height

the object with the greatest

width or height

Match width and

height

the first configured, therefore the oldest object in the multiple selection

the object selected first

the reference object used until the

selection;
otherwise the object with the
greatest width or height

See also
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
How to Align Multiple Objects (Page392)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
The Alignment Palette (Page241)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)

3.8.3.6

How to Select Multiple Objects

Introduction
In order to change the properties of several objects at once, all of the objects to be changed
must be selected. You do this using "Multiple selection". In the Graphics Designer, you can
make the multiple selection of objects using the following procedures:
multiple selection by clicking with the pressed <Shift> key
multiple selection by dragging a selection border with the mouse
multiple selection with key combination <Ctrl+A>
Note
With each of these three procedures, you can remove an object that was selected in the
multiple selection by mistake by clicking on it with the <Shift> key pressed.

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Prerequisites
The active picture contains at least two objects.

Multiple selection with <Shift> and click

1. Hold down <SHIFT>.
2. Click the relevant objects, working in succession.
The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object appear for every selected
object.
The mouse pointer will change to a crosshair with arrow points when it is positioned over
a selected object.

Multiple selection with the mouse

You can also make a multiple selection with the mouse only. This is done by dragging a
selection border around the desired objects with the mouse. The result depends on the setting
for the type of object selection:
"Surrounding object selection"
All objects inside the displayed frame are selected.
"Touching object selection"
All objects touched by the frame will be selected, in addition to those inside of it.
The procedure described here is for the "surrounding object selection" type.
1. Position the cursor on the picture close to one of the required objects.
2. Hold down the mouse button and drag a frame around the objects you want.
As soon as you release the mouse button, the handles for the rectangles surrounding the
objects will be shown for every selected object.

Multiple selection with <Ctrl+A>

1. Select one or more objects.
2. Press <Ctrl+A>.
If no object was selected, all objects of the picture are selected.
If at least one object was selected, all objects of the same type are selected like the
selected objects.

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Reference object
The object to be used as a reference object depends on the type of selection and on the function
selected in the alignment palette:
Selection type

Selection borders

<Shift> + click

<Ctrl + A>

Function

Reference object is:

Reference object is:

Reference object is:

Aligning

the outermost object

the object selected first

the reference object that is

used until the
selection;
otherwise the outermost
object

Center

the common center axis of the selected object

Distribute

No reference object

Match width or height

the object with the greatest

width or height

Match width and height

the first configured, therefore the oldest object in the multiple selection

the object selected first

the reference object used

until the selection;
otherwise the object with the
greatest width or height

See also
The Alignment Palette (Page241)
How to select an object (Page385)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)

3.8.3.7

How to position objects

Introduction
The position of an object is defined by the coordinates of the object origin. The left upper corner
of the rectangle surrounding the control is called the object origin.
Objects can be positioned by:
dragging the object to a new position
moving the selected object with the aid of the arrow keys for cursor control
Changing the "Position X" and "Position Y attributes"

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Multiple selection
It is possible to move several selected objects simultaneously.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Position the mouse pointer over the selected object.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points.
2. Click the object and hold the left mouse button.
The cursor changes into an arrow with an outline icon (small rectangle with broken line).
3. Move the mouse pointer.
The rectangle surrounding the object is displayed as broken and shows a possible new
position for the object.
The object itself initially keeps its original position.
4. Release the mouse button.
The object is moved to the position previously displayed by the broken line of the rectangle
surrounding the object.
The mouse pointer turns into crosshairs with arrow pointers

Alternative Operation
Move the selected object using the arrow keys for cursor control or change the value for the
geometric "Position X" and "Position Y" attributes in the "Object Properties" window.

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Note
In the settings of the Graphics Designer if the "Snap to grid" function is activated, the object
can only be positioned with the mouse according to the settings for the grid.

See also
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
How to Set the Grid (Page254)
How to position objects (Page390)
How to select an object (Page385)

3.8.3.8

How to Align Multiple Objects

Introduction
Using the functions of the alignment palette, the objects of a multiple selection can be arranged
together in the picture. A detailed description of these functions can be found in the section
"The Alignment palette".

Aligning
The selected objects are aligned on the border line of the selection frame (up, down, left, right).

Center
The selected objects are centered on a middle axis of the selection frame (horizontally,
vertically).

Distribute
The selected objects are distributed evenly across the height or width of the selection frame
(horizontally, vertically).

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Align
The size of the reference object is assigned to the selected objects (height, width or height
and width).

Requirements
Select at least two objects of any type.

Procedure
In the "Alignment Palette" click the required icon or on the "Arrange / Align" menu select the
required entry.
The alignment or the size of the selected objects changes.

See also
How to position objects (Page390)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
The Alignment Palette (Page241)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.9

How to scale an object

Introduction
The size of an object is defined by the geometry of the rectangle surrounding the object. The
rectangle surrounding the object is symbolized when selecting an object by showing the
selection markers.
Objects can be scaled by:
dragging the handle to a new position
changing the values of the "Width" and "Height" attributes

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Multiple selection
It is not possible to scale several selected objects simultaneously using the mouse. To do this,
the objects must be grouped.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Position the mouse pointer over a handle of the selected object.
The mouse pointer changes to double arrow. The alignment of the double arrow indicates
the directions in which you can move the handle:
"Horizontal double arrow"
The width of the object can be changed using the handles on the horizontal center axis.
"Vertical double arrow"
The handles on the vertical center axis can be used to change the height of the object.
"Diagonal double arrow"
The handles on the corners of the object can be used to change the height and width
of the object.
2. Use the mouse to drag the handle to the position you want.
In the settings of the Graphics Designer - if the "Snap to grid" function is activated, the
object can only be scaled with the mouse according to the settings for the grid.

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Alternative Operation
Change the values for the geometric "Width" and "Height" attributes in the "Object Properties"
window.

See also
How to select an object (Page385)
How to position objects (Page390)
How to Set the Grid (Page254)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.10

How to mirror the objects

Introduction
Objects can be mirrored on their horizontal or vertical center axis. The mirroring of an object
can cause its geometric attributes to change. Mirroring can also change the alignment of
elements contained in the object such as text or check boxes.

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Multiple selection
It is possible to mirror several selected objects simultaneously. The mirroring occurs on the
horizontal or vertical middle axis of the individual objects.

Requirements
Select any type of object except circle, application window, picture window, Control, OLE
object, status display, 3D bars, group display and round button.

Procedure
In the "Standard toolbar" click the icon

in order to mirror the selected object on its horizontal center axis

in order to mirror the selected object on its vertical center axis

Alternatively you can use the entries "Horizontal" and "Vertical" on the "Arrange / Mirror" menu.

See also
How to select an object (Page385)
How to rotate the objects (Page396)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.11

How to rotate the objects

Introduction
Objects can be rotated around their center point. The rotation is clockwise and in steps of 90
degrees.
The rotation of an object can cause its geometric attributes to change. Rotation can also
change the alignment of elements in an object such as a text.

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Multiple selection
It is possible to rotate several selected objects simultaneously. The objects are each rotated
around their center point.

Requirements
Select any type of object except circle, application window, picture window, Control, OLE
object, status display, 3D bars, group display and round button.

Procedure
In the standard toolbar, click the icon
It rotates 90 degrees.

to rotate the object clockwise around its center axis.

Alternatively, you can select the "Rotate entry" in the "Arrange "menu.

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See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
How to mirror the objects (Page395)
How to select an object (Page385)

3.8.3.12

How to delete objects

Introduction
The "Delete" command removes a selected object from a picture.

Multiple selection
It is possible to delete several selected objects simultaneously.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
Press <DEL> to remove the selected object from the picture.
Alternatively you can use the "Delete" entry on the popup menu or on the "Edit" menu.
Note
You can easily correct operating steps unintentionally carried out:
Click the button
in the standard toolbar to undo the last executed action. You can undo
the last 30 editing steps by repeatedly clicking this button.
Use the button

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in the standard toolbar to redo the last executed action.

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See also
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to copy objects (Page400)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to duplicate objects (Page402)
How to insert an object into a picture (Page382)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.13

How to cut objects

Introduction
The "Cut command" copies a selected object into the clipboard of the operating system. The
object itself is removed from the picture.

Multiple selection
It is possible to cut several selected objects simultaneously.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
Use the key combination <CTRL+X> to remove the selected object from the picture and copy
it to the clipboard.
Alternatively, you can click the icon
pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.

in the standard toolbar or use the entry "Cut" in the

Note
You can easily correct operating steps unintentionally carried out:
in the standard toolbar to undo the last executed action. You can undo
Click the button
the last 30 editing steps by repeatedly clicking this button.
Use the button

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See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to insert an object into a picture (Page382)
How to duplicate objects (Page402)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to copy objects (Page400)
How to delete objects (Page398)

3.8.3.14

How to copy objects

Introduction
The "Copy command" copies a selected object into the clipboard of the operating system. The
advantage of copying to the clipborad is that that object can be inserted several times, and
into different pictures.

Multiple selection
It is possible to copy several selected objects simultaneously.
Note
When inserting a copied object, an object name is automatically assigned. The name of the
original object is used as object name and linked with a continuous number. No special
characters are used in the object name. You change the object name using the "Object Name"
attribute.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
Use the shortcut <CTRL+C> to copy the selected object to the clipboard.
Alternatively, you can click the icon
pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.

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See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
How to copy objects to another picture (Page298)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to Rename Objects (Page383)
How to duplicate objects (Page402)

3.8.3.15

How to insert the contents of the clipboard

Introduction
The "Paste" command inserts the current contents of the clipboard into the active picture as
often as required. If for example an object was copied to the clipboard, any number of copies
of the object can be inserted into different pictures using this command.

Requirements
The clipboard must have contents.

Procedure
1. Press the shortcut <CTRL+V>.
The current contents of the clipboard are inserted into the active picture and selected.
2. Repeat this step to insert further copies of the contents.
Alternatively, you can click the icon
pop-up menu or in the "Edit" menu.

in the standard toolbar or use the entry "Paste" in the

Note
Objects from other applications can also be inserted via the clipboard of the operating
system.

Position X and Position Y of the inserted object are each 20 pixel greater as as Position X
and Y of the original object.

The inserted object receives the object name of the original object but is supplemented by a
continuous number.

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See also
How to copy objects (Page400)
How to duplicate objects (Page402)
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to delete objects (Page398)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.16

How to duplicate objects

Introduction
Use the "Duplicate" command to make a copy of the selected objects directly in the active
picture. The object itself is not modified. The selected object is not copied to the operating
system clipboard.

Multiple selection
It is possible to duplicate several selected objects simultaneously.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
Select "Duplicate" on the popup menu or on the "Edit" menu to make a copy of the selected
object directly in the active picture.
Note
Position X and Position Y of the duplicated object are each 20 pixel greater as as Position X
and Y of the original object.

The duplicated object receives the object name of the original object but is supplemented by
a continuous number.

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See also
How to copy objects (Page400)
How to cut objects (Page399)
How to insert the contents of the clipboard (Page401)
How to delete objects (Page398)
How to select an object (Page385)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.3.17

How to change the position of an object

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer, a picture consists of 32 layers in which the objects can be inserted.
By default the objects are inserted in the level prefined for the respective object tye.
The position of the objects to one another can however also be changed within a level. This
is important for example if several objects overlap and thereby over each other.

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When creating a process picture the objects of a level are by default arranged in the order in
which they were configured. The object inserted first lies at the very back of the level, each
additional object is inserted one position toward the front.

Multiple selection
It is possible to change the position of multiple selected objects simultaneously.
This modification will always apply to the reference object relative to the position of the
unselected objects. An individual position behind the reference object is assigned to each
selected object.

Requirements
The active picture should contain at least two objects of any type which partially overlap.
Both objects must be on the same level.
Select one of these objects.

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Procedure
Use one of the following shortcuts to change the position of the selected object:
<CTRL> und <+> = "All the way to the front"
The selected object is positioned in front of all the other objects contained in the picture.
<CTRL> und <-> = "All the way to the back"
The selected object is positioned behind all the other objects contained in the picture.
<+> = "one to the front"
The selected object moves up one position to the front.
<+> = "one to the back"
The selected object moves back one position.

Alternative Operation
Select the required entry on the "Arrange / Within the Level" menu to change the position
of the selected object.
In the standard toolbar, click
In the standard toolbar, click

, to position the selected object in the very front.

, to position the selected object in the very back.

Note
Some objects of the "Control" type generally are in the foreground.

See also
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Layers (Page290)
The Layer Palette (Page242)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
How to select an object (Page385)

3.8.3.18

You can change the text contents of objects

Introduction
The "Linking" command is used to reconfigure the text contents of attributes for all selected
objects. All configured texts are listed in a dialog and can be edited directly or using the "Find"
and "Replace" functions.

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Open the "Find and Replace Texts" dialog.

Select all the objects whose text contents you want to change. If you do not select an object,
all the objects in the active picture are evaluated.
In the "Edit" menu select "Linking / Text" or from the popup menu of the selection or of the
active picture.

Sort text contents

The three-columned upper area of the dialog lists the texts configured in the objects selection
and the associated attributes and objects.
Click the column name to sort the list according to texts, properties or objects.

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Directly edit text contents

1. In the "Text" column, select the text contents to be changed.
2. Click the text once to activate the edit function.
3. Enter the new text contents and confirm this by pressing <ENTER>.

Find
You can select certain text contents using the "Find" function in the lower area of the dialog:
Click "Select All" if you want to change the text contents displayed.
Enter the text or parts of text you want to search for in the search field. You can also activate
the options "Find whole words only" and "Match case". All text contents which so not meet
the search criteria are hidden.

Replace
You can replace the selected text contents using the "Replace" function in the lower area of
the dialog. Enter the new text in the field and click "Replace".
NOTICE
The "Replace" function replaces only the part of the text contents displayed in the "Find" field.
Note
Grouped objects can only be linked if there are no grouped objects in the group itself.

See also
You can link the tag connection of objects (Page418)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.4

Basic Dynamic Operations

3.8.4.1

Basic Dynamic Operations

Introduction
To create a process picture, the required objects must be inserted from the Graphics Designer
object palette into a picture. These objects are then dynamically linked suitably to a process
to use the process picture to control and monitor processes.
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This chapter introduces the basic dynamic operations provided in the Graphics Designer to
make objects dynamic:
Making Attributes Dynamic
Configuring Events
There is an extensive description of this topic in the chapter "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".

See also
How to make attributes dynamic (Page408)
How to configure events (Page410)
How to configure a dynamic dialog (Page411)
How to configure a C action (Page412)
How to configure a VBS action (Page414)
How to Configure a Tag Connection (Page416)
You can link the tag connection of objects (Page418)
How to Configure a Direct Connection (Page421)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

3.8.4.2

How to make attributes dynamic

Introduction
You can make certain attributes dynamic in the "Object properties" dialog on the "Properties"
tab.
By linking the attributes with dynamic dialogs, VBS actions, C actions or tags, the properties
of an object can be dynamically adapted to the requirements of the processes to be displayed.
Certain attributes cannot be made dynamic because a change has no effect in runtime. These
attributes have no dynamics icon.
Note
As soon as an attribute is defined with a global design, it is static and can no longer be made
dynamic. Pre-defined dynamics have no effect.
The "Dynamic" column of the "Properties" tab displays the type of configured dynamics for the
selected attribute and is marked by one of the following icons:

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Dynamics icon

Type of dynamics

White bulb

No dynamics

Green bulb

Dynamics with a tag

Red lightning

Dynamics via a dynamic dialog

Green lightning with attached abbreviation "VB"

Dynamics with a VBS action

Green lightning with attached abbreviation "C"

Dynamics with a C action

Yellow lightning with attached abbreviation "C"

Dynamics with a C action not yet translated

There is an extensive description of this topic in the chapter "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".

Prerequisites
You have selected an object

Procedure
1. Open the "Object properties" dialog and select the "Properties" tab.
2. Select the property group containing the attribute to be made dynamic.
3. Right-click the Dynamic icon of the required attribute in the "Dynamics" column.
4. Select the required dynamics type on the popup menu.
The associated dialog box opens.
There is a brief description of the dynamics types in this chapter.

See also
Global Design of the Objects (Page92)
How to configure a dynamic dialog (Page411)
How to configure a C action (Page412)
How to configure a VBS action (Page414)
How to Configure a Tag Connection (Page416)
You can link the tag connection of objects (Page418)
How to configure events (Page410)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

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3.8.4.3

How to configure events

Introduction
The "Event" tag in the "Object Properties" window allows events to be configured.
By linking the events with direct connections, VBS actions or C acions, certain actions can be
triggered in Runtime by the operation of an object.
The "Action" column of the "Event" tab displays the type of configured dynamics for the selected
event and is marked by one of the following icons.
Action icon

Type of dynamics

White lightning

There is no action for the event.

Blue lightning

There is an action via direct connection for the

event.

Green lightning with attached abbreviation "VB"

There is a VBS action for the event.

Green lightning with attached abbreviation "C"

There is a C action for the event.

Yellow lightning with attached abbreviation "C"

There is a C action not yet translated for the event.

There are events which cannot be made dynamic because a change in Runtime has no effect.
They have no action icon.
There is an extensive description of this topic in the chapter "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".

Requirements
Select an object.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" window and select the "Event" tab.
2. Select the event group containing the event to be configured.
3. Right-click the action icon of the required event in the Action column.
4. Select the required dynamics type on the pop-up menu.
The associated dialog opens.
There is a brief description of the dynamics types in this chapter.

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See also
How to configure a C action (Page412)
How to configure a VBS action (Page414)
How to Configure a Direct Connection (Page421)
How to make attributes dynamic (Page408)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

3.8.4.4

How to configure a dynamic dialog

Introduction
A dynamic dialog is used to achieve high Runtime performance when making attributes
dynamic. A C action is automatically generated from the dynamic dialog. This can however be
extended later. The advantage of higher Runtime performance is then lost.
A dynamic dialog is created with the "Dynamic Value Ranges" dialog which is described breifly
here. More detailed information on this topic can be found under "Dynamics with the Dynamic
dialog".

Opening the "Dynamic Value Ranges" dialog

Open the "Properties" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Dynamics column, "select
the "Dynamic Dialog" Box entry from the popup menu od the attribute to be made dynamic.

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Event Name
The "Event Name" field displays the name of the selected trigger event which defines the
update cycle for the value to be calculated.
The trigger event is configured using the "Trigger dialog". There is a choice of the events "Tag",
"Standard cycle", "Picture cycle" and "Window cycle", which can be configured and renamed
as required.
Click the button

to open the "Change trigger" dialog.

Expression / Formula
Specify the formula with which the new value of the attribute should be calculated in Runtime.
Click the button
in order to create the formula from the configured tags, global script
functions and operators. Click "Check" to check the formula for errors.

Event of the Expression / Formula

This field displays the calculated value or value range. The evaluation of the event depends
on the set data type.

Data type
Select the data type for the evaluation of the event. The options "Analog", "Bool", "Bit" and
"Direct are available".

Evaluate status of tags

Activate this check box to view the current values of the tags in the formula.

See also
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

3.8.4.5

How to configure a C action

Introduction
A C action is used to make attributes and events dynamic. The powerful script language ANSIC opens almost endless options for dynamics. However, the Runtime performance achieved
is lower than with other dynamic types. Therefore, before using a C action you should check
whether the required dynamics can be implemented with another dynamics type.
A C action is created with the "Edit action" dialog which is briefly described here. More detailed
information on this topic can be found under "Dynamics with a C Action".

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Open "Edit action" dialog

Attribute
Open the "Properties" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Dynamics" column, select
the "C Action" entry from the popup menu od the attribute to be made dynamic.

Event
Open the "Event" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Action" column, select the "C
Action" entry from the pop-up menu of the event to be made dynamic.

toolbar
The toolbar of the "Edit action" dialog also contains the following buttons in addition to the
familiar icons:
Icon

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Name

Description

Create Action

Checks the program codes of the C action for errors

Tag Selection

Selects tags which should be evaluated in the C action

Selection of
Picture

Selects the picture of the PDL format which should be evaluated

in the C action

Import an Action

Imports an existing C action.

C actions are saved in the ACT file format.

Exporting an
Action

Exporting the new or modified C action.

C actions are saved in the file format ACT.

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Event Name
The "Event Name" field displays the name of the selected trigger event which defines the
update cycle for the value to be calculated.
The trigger event is configured using the "Trigger dialog". There is a choice of the events "Tag",
"Standard cycle", "Picture cycle" and "Window cycle", which can be configured and renamed
as required.
Click the button

to open the "Change trigger" dialog.

Editor window
The editor window shows and edits the program code of the C action. Functions, tags and
pictures can be inserted and modified at the respective current cursor position.

Function selection
The function selection shows the Global Script functions available in the project in the form of
a directory tree. You can use these functions to create the C actions.
Double-click the required function to configure the contained paramaters with the Set
"Parameters" dialog. Confirm the new parameters by clicking "OK" to insert the function with
the new values at the position of the cursor in the editor window.

See also
Dynamizing Using C Action (Page877)

3.8.4.6

How to configure a VBS action

Introduction
A VBS action is used to make attributes and events dynamic. The script language of a VBS
action is Visual Basic.
A VBS action is created with the "Edit VBS action" dialog which is briefly described here. More
detailed information on this topic can be found under "Dynamics with a VBS Action".

Open "Edit VBS action" dialog

Attribute
Open the "Properties" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Dynamics" column, select
the "VBS Action" entry from the popup menu od the attribute to be made dynamic.

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Event
Open the "Event" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Action" column, select the
"VBS Action" entry from the pop-up menu of the event to be made dynamic.

toolbar
The toolbar of the "Edit VBS action" dialog also contains the buttons described below in addition
to the familiar icons: The composition of the icons on the toolbar varies according to the types
of attribute or event for which a VBS action was configured.
Icon

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Name

Description

Single view

Displays the currently edited module

Full view

Displays all modules

Comment

Changes marked program lines into commentary

lines

Uncomment

Deletes the commentary marking of a program line

Setting Bookmarks

Marks a program line for further editing

Delete Bookmark

Deletes the marking of a program line

Next bookmark

Jumps from the current cursor position to the next

bookmark

Previous bookmark

Jumps from the current cursor position to the

previous bookmark

Syntax Check

Checks the program codes of the VBS action for

errors

Tag Selection

Selects tags which should be evaluated in the VBS

action

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Icon

Name

Description

Tag dialog with extended return

parameter

Selects tags which should be evaluated in the VBS

action
The selection is made via a dialog with extended
return parameter.

Selection of Picture

Selects the picture of the PDL format which should

be evaluated in the C action

Event Name
The "Event Name" field displays the name of the selected trigger event which defines the
update cycle for the value to be calculated.
The trigger event is configured using the "Trigger dialog". There is a choice of the events "Tag",
"Standard cycle", "Picture cycle" and "Window cycle", which can be configured and renamed
as required.
Click the button

to open the "Change trigger" dialog.

Editor window
The editor window shows and edits the program code of the VBS action. Visual Basic modules,
tags and pictures can be inserted and modified at the respective current cursor position.

Module selection
The module selection displays Visual Basic modules already available in the form of a directory
tree. There are three tabs in which "Project modules", "Standard modules" and "Code
templates" are made available. You can use these modules to create the VBS actions.

See also
Activating Project (Page132)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)

3.8.4.7

How to Configure a Tag Connection

Introduction
Attributes can be made dynamic using a tag connection. Connecting an attribute to a process
tag for example enables the change of the measurement value to be displayed graphically.
All tags available in the project can be selected in the "Tags - project: ..." dialog, which is briefly
described here. More detailed information on the topic can be found under "Making Dynamic
using Tag Connection and "under "Tag Management".

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"Tags Project:" dialog ..." Opening

Open the "Properties" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Dynamics" column, select
the "Tag" entry from the pop-up menu of the attribute to be made dynamic.

Filter
If there is a large number of configured tags, the search procedure can take some time. For
instance, for 15,000 tags the search procedure takes about a minute.
By specifying a filter, you can narrow the scope of the search and reduce the duration of the
search procedure. You can achieve a significant increase in efficiency if you configure tags
with the aid of a tag prefix.

Data source
You can use the "Data Source" window to select the tags it is intended to display.

Tag groups
The selected tag group complete with its sub-folders is displayed in the left-hand area in the
form of a folder tree.
Directories and subdirectories can be opened or closed by clicking on the "+" or "-" icons. The
tags available for the selected entry are shown in the tag display.

Tag display
The right-hand area contains all the tags that are available for the entry The tag display is
divided into four columns showing the tag name, type and parameter, and the point in time at
which the tag was last changed. Tags can be sorted by clicking on the respective column
heading.

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Procedure
1. Select the required filter. An asterisk means that no filter is to be used or no filter has been
defined.
2. Select one or more data sources.
3. Open the desired tag group in the left-hand window area.
4. Select the desired tag from the right-hand window area.
5. Confirm you selection with "OK".
The dialog "Tags - project: ..." will be closed.
The selected tag is assigned to the selected object and you can continue with the
configuration.

See also
Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection (Page838)

3.8.4.8

You can link the tag connection of objects

Introduction
The "Linking" command is used to reconfigure the tag connection for all selected objects. The
tag connections configured for the selection are listed in a dialog and can be linked directly or
with the aid of the "Find" and "Replace" functions.

Open "Linking of the Tag Connection" dialog

Select all the objects whose tag connection contents you want to link.
On the "Edit" menu select "Linking / Tag Connection" or from the popup menu of the selection.

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Linking tags at the places of use

Tag Selection
The left area of the "Places of Use" tab shows a list of the tags configured in the object selection.
All objects are assigned to these tags in the form of a folder tree which contains the dynamics
of the respective tag.
Select a tag or object. The detail view shows the current tag connections.

Details
The right area of the "Places of Use" tab shows the current tag connections for the selected
tag or object. You can link these tag connections:
Right-click the required tag connection to call the "Linking" command. The "Linking a Tag"
dialog opens.

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Enter the name of the new tag or click the associated button to select a tag.

Linking tags by searching and replacing

Find
The left area of the "Find and Replace" tag shows the names of all tags configured in the object
selection. There are three search options available to select certain tag names:

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Click "Select All" if you want to link the texts displayed.

Select a tag name and click the button

, if you only wish to change the connections to
this tag. All remaining tag names are hidden.

Enter the tag names or parts of names you want to search for in the search field. You can
also activate the options "Find whole words only" and "Match case". All tags which so not
meet the search criteria are hidden.

Replace
In the right area of the "Find and Replace" tab you can enter the name of the new tag with
which the selected tag names should be replaced. Alternatively you can click the associated
button to select the required tag.
Click "Preview" to view and check the planned replacement.
Click "Replace" to link the selected tag connections as in the preview.
NOTICE
The "Replace" function replaces only the part of the tag names contents displayed in the
"Find" text field of the area.
Note
Grouped objects can only be linked if there are no grouped objects in the group itself.

See also
You can change the text contents of objects (Page405)
How to Configure a Tag Connection (Page416)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page388)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Working with Objects (Page378)

3.8.4.9

How to Configure a Direct Connection

Introduction
Events can be made dynamic using a direct connection. A direct connection offers the quickest
dynamics in the picture and acheives the hightest Runtime performance. However the direct
connection can only be used within a process picture and only one connection can be created.
A direct connection is created with the "Direct Connection" dialog which is briefly described
here. More detailed information on this topic can be found under "Dynamics with a Direct
Connection".

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Opening the "Direct Connection" dialog

Open the "Event" tab in the "Object Properties" window. In the "Action" column, select the
"Direct Connection" entry from the popup menu of the event to be made dynamic.

Source
You can select a constant, object property or a tag as the data source:

Constant
Click the associated buton or select a picture of the PDL format which provides the constant.

Object property
Select the object and an attribute of the object whose value should be used as the data source.

Tag
Click the associated button and select the required tag. Define whether the update of the tags
should be done permanently (directly) or only when called (indirectly).

Objective
You can select "Current window", "Object in Picture" or "Tag" as the target which should take
the value of the data source:

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Current window
Select this option if you want to assign the value of the data source to the active picture.

Object in the picture

Select the object and attribute of this object to which you want to assign the value of the data
source.

Tag
Click the associated button and select the required tag which should take the value of the data
source. Define whether the update of the tags should be done permanently (directly) or only
when called (indirectly). If required, you can activate the output of a operator message.

See also
Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection (Page841)

3.8.5

The Properties of an Object

3.8.5.1

The Properties of an Object

Introduction
Form, appearance and visibility, position and process connection of an object are determined
by the "Object properties". These properties can be changed as required in the Graphics
Designer.
The properties of an object are described by a large number of "attributes". An object property
can be changed by assigning a new value to its attribute.
The "Object Properties" window on the "Properties" tab contains all the attributes of a selected
object or a multiple selection of objects. The attributes are divided into property groups, such
as "geometry" or "Colors". The type and number of the available property groups and attributes
are dependent on the type of the selected objects. So, for example, the "Font" property group
is only shown for the object types which can be displayed with text.
With a multiple selection it is possible that individual property groups for one specific object
type are summarized to a shared property group. All attributes of the summarized property
groups available in this group are contained under the "User defined" label.
As an alternative to changing the attributes in the "Object properties" window, objects can also
be adjusted with the mouse and keyboard or by using the toolbar and palettes. However, in
this way only certain object properties, such as the basic geometric size, color and line style,
can be changed.

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See also
Elements and Basic Settings of the Graphics Designer (Page228)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Special Runtime Settings (Page466)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)

3.8.5.2

The "Object Properties" Window

The "Object Properties" Window

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer, the "Object Properties" window represents the central dialog for
changing object properties.
To create process pictures it is firstly important to adapt the static values of attributes to for
example define the shape, appearance, position or operability of an object. The "Object
Properties" window allows however process pictures to be made dynamic. By linking the
attributes with dynamic dialogs, C actions or tags, the properties of an object can be
dynamically adapted to the requirements of the processes to be displayed. An extensive
description of dynamic procedures can be found in the chapter Making "Process Pictures
Dynamic".
As an example, the "Object properties" window can have the following appearance for a
rectangle with the object name "Rectangle1":

The "Object Properties" window can be pinned on top of the Graphics Designer. The position
and size of the window can be changed as you like.

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The "Object Properties" window is subdivided into Elements toolbar, and the "Properties" and
"Event" tabs. You can find more about these elements in their detailed description.

Keeping the "Object properties" window in the foreground

Activating Pin
By activating the "Pin" button, the "Object Properties" window can be set so that it is always
in the foreground in the Graphics Designer.
1. On the toolbar of the "Object Properties", click

The button is activated and displays the icon

.
The "Object Properties" window is pinned on top.

Deactivating Pin
1.

On the toolbar of the "Object Properties", click

The button is deactivated and displays the icon

.
The "Object Properties" window is hidden, as soon as the mouse is clicked outside the
window.

Calling direct help for the "Object Properties" window

In the title bar of the "Object properties" window click
. Then click the window element for
which you want to call the direct help. A brief description of the element is shown.

See also
Opening the "Object properties" window (Page433)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page435)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window (Page426)
The "Properties" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page428)
The "Events" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page431)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)

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The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window

Introduction
You can make the following settings with the toolbar in the "Object properties" window:
The "Object Properties" can be pinned on top in the Graphics Designer.
Object properties can be transferred.
You can select individual objects of the active picture.
As an example, the toolbar can have the following appearance for a rectangle with the
object name "Rectangle1":

Elements of the toolbar in the "Object properties" window

Icon

Name

Function

"Pin"
activated/
deactivated

Deactivate:
The "Object Properties" window will be closed as soon
as the mouse is clicked outside the windows.
Aktivated:
The Object Properties window stays in the foreground
at all times. Different objects can be edited without
having to open the window again.

"Eyedropper" The properties of a selected object are copied.

Copy properties
"Eyedropper" The previously copied properties are transferred to the
Assign properties selected object without changing its geometric
attributes. For different object types, only those
attributes which both object types have are transferred.
"Object type"

Displays the object type of the selected object. With

several objects, here displays whether it is a "Multiple
selection", a "Group" or a "User object".

"Object selection" Displays the name of the selected object.

A different object can be selected in the dropdown list
field. The dropdown list field shows the names of all
objects in the active picture. The font style of the entries
depends on the type of dynamics.

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Font styles of the object selection

Different font style particularly highlight dynamic objects and the type of dynamics in the object
selection. The following font styles are used:
normal
No dynamics were configured for the object. The object is not the target of a configured
direct connection.
bold
At least one dynamics was configured for the object. However, the object is not the target
of a configured direct connection.
italics
No dynamics were configured for the object. The object is the target of at least one
configured direct connection.
bold and italic
At least one dynamics was configured for the object. The object is the target of at least one
configured direct connection.

See also
Opening the "Object properties" window (Page433)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page435)
The "Properties" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page428)
The "Events" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page431)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)

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The "Properties" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window

Introduction
In the "Object Properties" window, the "Properties" tab represents the central dialog to change
static values of a selected object.
The "Properties" tab can for example have the following appearance for a rectangle with
the object name "Rectangle1":

The width of both window areas and the columns in the attribute display can be changed by
moving the vertical separation lines.

Properties folder
The left area shows the selected object with its property groups in the form of a folder tree.
The selected object is displayed as a directory.
With a multiple selection or a user object, this folder only receives the shared property groups
of the contained individual objects. With a selected group the shared property groups are listed
first and then, as a subfolder, the individual objects with their property groups.
It is not possible to change the entries in the property folder. Directories and subdirectories
can be opened or closed by clicking on the "+" or "-" icons. The attributes available for the
selected entry are shown in the attribute display.

Attribute display
The right-hand area contains all the attributes that are available for the entry The attribute
display is divided into five columns in which the static values of the selected object are
displayed.
The displayed values can be changed by double-clicking or opening the pop-up menu in the
respective column.

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Columns of the attribute display

Column

Function

Description

Attribute Attribute name

All of the attributes from the selected property group that are available
for the selected object will be shown.
The name of the attribute cannot be changed. The static value of the
attribute can be changed by double-clicking the name of the attribute.

Static

Static value of the

attribute

The current value of the attribute is shown for the selected object. The
value will be displayed as a number, text or graphic display, depending
on the type of attribute.
The static value of the attribute can be changed by double-clicking the
attribute name. Further information can be found in chapter "Changing
Object Properties".

Dynami
c

Dynamization of
attribute

The type of dynamics is displayed and marked by one of the following

icons:
white bulb = no dynamics
green bulb = dynamics with one tag
red lightning = dynamics via a dynamics dialog
green lightning = dynamics with a C action
yellow lightning = dynamics with C action that has not yet been
translated

The dynamics of the attribute can be changed. Right-clicking opens a
popup menu on which the required dynamics can be set.
Further information can be found in chapter "Making Process Picture
Dynamic".

Current

Update cycle of
the attribute

The setting for the update cycle is displayed if dynamics of the attribute
are set.

The update cycle of the attribute can be changed by double-clicking
on the value. Further information can be found in chapter "Changing
Object Properties".

Indir.

Indirect attribute
addressing

An attribute can be directly or indirectly made dynamic:

Direct = The attribute is made dynamic directly with the tag
content.
Indirect = The attribute is linked to a tag of the type "string", which
references another tag. The attribute is made dynamic with the contents
of the referenced tag.

Indirect addressing of the attribute can be activated by double-clicking
the check box if the attribute is made dynamic with a tag. Further
information can be found in chapter "Making Process Picture Dynamic".

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Font styles to display dynamics and events

Dynamics and events are particularly highlighted with the aid of different font styles. The
following font styles are used:
bold
As soon as a dynamics or event has been configured for an attribute of the selected object,
this attribute is displayed in bold in the attribute screen. The associated property group in
the property folder and the selected object in object selection of the toolbar are also
displayed in bold.
italics
If a direct connection was configured for an event, the target of the direct connection is
displayed in italics in the attribute screen. The target object is also displayed in italics in the
object selection of the toolbar.
bold and italic
If an object is the target of a direct connection as well as dynamic itself, the attribute in the
attribute screen and the object in the object selection are displayed in bold and italics.

See also
Opening the "Object properties" window (Page433)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page435)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window (Page426)
The "Events" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page431)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)

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The "Events" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window

Introduction
In the "Object Properties" window the "Event" tab represents the central dialog for configuring
events. Configuring events is described extensively in the chapter "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".
The "Event" tab in the "Object Properties" window, for example, can have the following
appearance for a rectangle with the object name "Rectangle1":

The width of the two window areas and the columns in the event display can be changed by
moving the vertical dividing lines.

Event folder
The left area shows the selected object in the form of a folder tree. This folder shows entries
such as for example "Mouse", "Keyboard", "Focus" and "Misc" with which events for the
operation of the entire object can be configured. The "Property Topics" displays all property
groups of the selected object. An event can also be configured for each individual attribute of
a property group. If there are several individual objects in the selected object, the structure is
repeated for each individual object.
It is not possible to change the entries in the property folder. Directories and subdirectories
can be opened or closed by clicking on the "+" or "-" icons. The configurable events for the
selected entry are shown in the event display.

Event display
The right-hand area contains all the events that are available for the entry The event display
is divided into two columns in which the events and the linked actions are displayed.

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The displayed actions can be changed by double-clicking or opening the pop-up menu in the
"Action" column.

Columns of the event display

Column

Function

Description

Run at

Event
type

All events are displayed which are available for the selected object and assigned
to the entry selected in the event directory.

The name of the event cannot be changed. The configured action can be
changed by double-clicking the name of the attribute.

Action

Action
selection

The action, which is run when the event occurs, is displayed. The selected action
is marked by one of the following symbols:
White lightning = There is no action for this event.
Blue lightning = There is one action for this event via a direct connection.
Green lightning = There is a C action for this event.
Yellow lightning = There is a not yet translated C action for this event.

The configured action can be changed by double-clicking on the column "Execute
with" or by retrieving the pop-up menu in the column "Action". Further information
can be found in chapter "Making Process Picture Dynamic".

Event

Run at

Description

Mouse

Mouse
click

Is triggered if the cursor is on the object when the mouse button is pressed and
released.

Mouse

Click left/ Is triggered when pressing the mouse button directly on the object.
right

Mouse

Release
left/right

Triggering events

432

Is triggered when releasing the mouse button for the object the cursor was over
when the mouse button was pressed.

Keyboa Pressing
rd

Is triggered when pressing a key on the keyboard. The keys <F10> and <ALT
+PRINT> must not be used for process operation.

Keyboa Releasin
rd
g

Is triggered when releasing a key on the keyboard. The keys <F10> and <ALT
+PRINT> must not be used for process operation.

Focus

Focus
change

Occurs during focus reception, caused by C action, VBS action or selection of an

object using (TAB sequence) or mouse click.

Miscell
aneous

Object
change

Occurs if at least one object attribute changes.

Object
attribut
es

Change

Most object attributes have the Change event. It is used to be able to react
specifically to the change of a certain attribute. The event occurs if the attribute
value changes. The action linked to this event is logged on individually. With
"Close Picture", all actions logged on at this point are logged off individually. This
leads to an increased system load. To keep the system load low, this event type
should be used sparingly and only there where it is absolutely necessary to react
to the change. This is the case for example when inputting a value in the I/O field.

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See also
Opening the "Object properties" window (Page433)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page435)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window (Page426)
The "Properties" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page428)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)

Opening the "Object properties" window

Introduction
The "Object Properties" window on the "Properties" tab contains all the attributes of a selected
object or a multiple selection of objects. The changes are made to an object property by
assigning a new value to accompanying attribute.

Requirements
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
Open the "Object Properties" window by doing one of the following:
In the standard toolbar, click the icon

Double-click the selected object.

Choose the "Properties" option from the pop-up menu.
Select "Properties" on the "View" menu.
Note
If you want to make changes to several objects, you can lock the display of the "Object
Properties" window with the
.

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See also
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page435)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
The "Events" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page431)
The "Properties" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page428)
The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window (Page426)

How to Change an Attribute

Introduction
The properties of an object are defined in the Graphics Designer with values, which the
attributes of objects possess. Every change to an object, for example made with the mouse
or via a configuration dialog, changes the value of the accompanying attributes.
The "Object Properties" window on the "Properties" tab shows all the attributes of a selected
object or a multiple selection of objects. The attributes are assigned to so-called "property
groups". The type and number of the available property groups and attributes are dependent
on the type of the selected objects. So, for example, the "Font" property group is only shown
for the object types which can be displayed with text.
An object property can be changed by assigning a new value to its attribute. Depending on
the attribute type, the change in the value in the attribute display of the "Properties" tab is made
using different procedures which are broadly described below. Entries for changing a specific
attribute can be found in the detailed description of that attribute.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" window.
2. On the "Properties" tab, select the required property group.
3. Double-click the desired attribute.
A dialog to input or select the new value opens or the value is automatically changed by
double-clicking.

Attribute change via the "Value Input" dialog

Enter a new value in the "Value" Input dialog and confirm this by clicking "OK".
Alternatively, you can directly enter the new value by double-clicking on the "Static" column.

Attribute change via the "Text Input" dialog

In the "Text Input" dialog, click the "Text input" field to enter the new text.
For text with multiple lines, you can make a line break with the key combination <SHIFT
+ENTER> or <CTRL+M>. Confirm you entry with "OK".
Alternatively, you can directly enter the new value by double-clicking on the "Static" column.

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Attribute change via a switchover

If there are two values available for an attribute, for example the choice between "Yes" and
"No", each double-click causes a switchover between these two values.
Alternatively you can cause the switchover by double-clicking the "Static" column.

Attribute change via a selection dialog

Selection in the form of buttons
Click on the button to set the new value.
Alternatively you can select the new value in the dropdown list field after double-clicking the
"Static" column.

Selecting a color
In the selection dialog, select one of the 16 standard colors or open the palette with the
customized colors. In this palette, you can freely define additional colors.
Alternatively you can select the color selection by double-clicking the "Static" column.

Selecting a picture
Select a picture from the picture selection or open a selection window using the "Find" button
via which you can add other pictures to the picture selection. Confirm you selection with
"OK".
Alternatively, you can directly enter the name of the new picture by double-clicking on the
"Static" column.

See also
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)
The Start Screen of the Graphics Designer (Page234)
The "Properties" Tab in the "Object Properties" Window (Page428)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page435)

How to Transfer Object Properties

Introduction
The properties of an object can be transferred to another object with the "eyedropper". In the
Graphics Designer, you can use the following buttons to transfer object properties:

to copy properties of the selected object

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to apply copied properties to a selected object

These buttons are in the standard toolbar and in the "Object properties" toolbar. Alternatively,
these functions can be selected via the "Edit / Properties" menu.
With the exception of the user object, you can copy the properties of any object using the
eyedropper. You can also transfer the copied properties to any object such as to a multiple
selection, a group or a user object. The properties are transferred without changing the
geometric attributes of the object. With different object types, only those attributes which both
object types possess are changed.

Procedure
1. Select the object whose properties you want to copy.
2. In the standard toolbar, click
.
The properties of the selected object are copied.
3. Select the object to which you want to assign the copied properties.
4. In the standard toolbar, click
.
The selected object will be displayed with the new properties, but without changing its
geometric attributes. With different object types, only those attributes which both object
types possess are changed.
Note
It is possible to transfer the value of a selected attribute to other attributes using the
eyedroppers in the "Object Properties" window.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Toolbar in the "Object Properties" Window (Page426)
The Standard Toolbar (Page236)
The "Object Properties" Window (Page424)

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3.8.5.3

Property Groups and Attributes

Property Groups and Attributes

Introduction
On the "Properties" tab of the "Object properties" dialog all property groups are displayed which
are available for the selected object. If you select one of these properties, the associated
attributes for the selected object are listed in the attribute display.
You change the properties of an object by allocating the respective attributes with new values.
If you make an attribute dynamic, it will be changed dynamically in runtime.
Note
As soon as an attribute is defined with a global design, it is static and can no longer be made
dynamic. Pre-defined dynamics have no effect.
This chapter introduces all property groups and the associated attributes. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
An extensive description of the individual attributes can be found in the "Direct help" which can
be called from the pop-up menu of the required attribute.

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See also
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
"Geometry" Property Group (Page438)
"Colors" Property Group (Page441)
"Styles" Property Group (Page443)
"Font" Property Group (Page446)
"Flashing" Property Group (Page448)
"Miscellaneous" Property Group (Page450)
"Filling" Property Group (Page453)
The "Display" property group (Page445)
"Picture" Property Group (Page454)
"Pictures" Property Group (Page455)
"Status" Property Group (Page456)
"Axis" Property Group (Page457)
"Limits" Property Group (Page458)
"Output / Input" Property Group (Page459)
"Message Types" Property Group (Page461)
"Lock" Property Group (Page463)
"Connected Objects" Property Group (Page464)
"Assignment" Property Group (Page465)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)

"Geometry" Property Group

Introduction
The "Geometry" property group contains attributes, which you can use to change the geometric
properties of objects.

Requirements
The "Geometry" property group is available for all objects.

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Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Geometry" property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Current value X

Horizontal position of the currently selected corner

point, relative to the image origin.
(Unit: Pixels)

Polygon, polyline, connector

Current value Y

Vertical position of the currently selected corner

point, relative to the image origin.
(Unit: Pixels)

Polygon, polyline, connector

Alpha

Depth angle Alpha for the 3D effect

(Unit: Degree)

3D Bar

Start angle

Start angle for the display of segment or arc

objects
(Unit: Degree)

Ellipse arc, ellipse segment,

circular arc, pie segment,
tube bend

Number of corners Number of corner points

Polygon, polyline, polygon

tube

Number of boxes

Number of available selection fields

Check Box, Radio Box

Number of rows

Number of rows of text displayed

Combobox, list box

Alignment

Direction of movement of the slider control

(Value: horizontal or vertical)

Slider

Bar Width

Width of the 3D bar

(Unit: Pixels)

3D Bar

Bar Height

Height of the 3D bar

(Unit: Pixels)

3D Bar

Bar direction

Direction of the positive bar axis

(top, bottom, left, right)

Bar, 3D bar

Bar depth

Depth of the 3D bar

(Unit: Pixels)

3D Bar

Base X

Horizontal distance from the right bar edge to the

left object field edge

3D Bar

Base Y

Vertical distance from the lower bar edge to the

upper object field edge

3D Bar

Beta

Depth angle Beta for the 3D effect

(Unit: Degree)

3D Bar

Width

Distance between the left and right borderline

of an object
(Unit: Pixels)

All objects except application

and picture windows

Width Button 1-8

Individual width for each of the eight buttons

(1-8)
(Unit: Pixels)

Group Display

Display axis

Coordinate axis on which the measurement values 3D Bar

are displayed as 3D bars

Corner radius X

Radius of the corner rounding

(Unit: Percentage)

Rounded rectangle

Corner radius Y

Radius of the corner rounding

(Unit: Percentage)

Rounded rectangle

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Attribute

Function

Object type

End angle

End angle for the display of segment or arc

objects
(Unit: Degree)

Ellipse arc, ellipse segment,

circular arc, pie segment,
tube bend

Window width

Distance between the left and right

borderline
(Unit: Pixels)

Application window, picture

window

Window height

Distance between the top and bottom border

line
(Unit: Pixels)

Application window, picture

window

Same size

Display type of the four buttons

Group display

Height

Distance between the top and bottom border line

of an object
(Unit: Pixels)

All objects except application

and picture windows

Index

Number of the currently selected corner points

Polygon, polyline, connector,

polygon tube

Position X

Horizontal distance of the object origin from the

image origin
(Unit: Pixels)

All objects

Position Y

Vertical distance of the object origin from the

image origin
(Unit: Pixels)

All objects

Radius

Radius of a circular object

(Unit: Pixels)

Circle, circular arc, pie

segment, round button

Radius X

Horizontal radius of an elliptical object

(Unit: Pixels)

Ellipse, ellipse arc, ellipse

segment, tube bend

Radius Y

Vertical radius of an elliptical object

(Unit: Pixels)

Ellipse, ellipse arc, ellipse

segment, tube bend

Rotation
reference X

Horizontal coordinates of the reference point

around which an object is shown to rotate in
Runtime (Unit: Percentage)

Line, Polygon, Polyline,

Static Text

Rotation
reference Y

Vertical coordinates of the reference point around Line, Polygon, Polyline,

which an object is shown to rotate in Runtime (Unit: Static Text
Percentage)

Rotation angle

Angle around which an object is shown to rotate

in Runtime (Unit: Degree)

Line, Polygon, Polyline,

Static Text

Rotation angle

Orientation of a T-piece upwards, left, downwards

or right (unit: degrees). The values 0, 90, 180 and
270 are permitted. Other entries are rounded to
the multiple of 90.

T-piece

Angle settings

Type of depth display for the 3D effect

3D Bar

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
Setting Up Rotation of Objects (Page466)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Colors" Property Group

Introduction
The "Colors" property group contains attributes which you can use to change the color settings
of objects.
Note
Either define the color directly in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color from
the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.

Prerequisites
The "Colors" property group is available for all objects except application windows, picture
windows, Control and OLE object.
If you have selected a global design in the project, it is possible to have certain attributes of
the "Colors" property group only become effective if the "Global color scheme" is set to "No"
under "Display".

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Colors" property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

3D Border Color Top Color of the left and upper part of the 3D border

Button, round button

3D Shadow Color

Color of the right and lower part of the 3D border

Button, round button

List Background
Color

Background color of the non-selected entries in

the selection list

Text list, multiline text

List Font Color

Font color of the non-selected entries in the

selection list

Text list, multiline text

Bar Color

Color of the bar to display the current value

Bar

Bar Background
Color

Color of the bar background

Bar

High Limit Color

Color of the upper and right arrow key

Slider object

Low Limit Color

Color of the lower and left arrow key

Slider object

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Fill pattern color

Color of the fill pattern

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle,
rounded rectangle, static
text,
I/O field, bar, graphics
object, text list,
multiline text, combobox, list
box, all Windows objects

Background color

Fill color of the object

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle,
rounded rectangle, static
text,
I/O field, bar, graphics
object, text list, multiline text,
combobox, list box, 3D
bar,
all Windows objects

Button Color

Color of the regulator

Slider object

Line color

Color of the line

all standard objects except

static text,
graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects, all tube
objects

Line background
color

Background color of line

all standard objects,

graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

High Limit
Background Color

Color of the upper and right slider surface

Slider object

Border Color

Color of the border

Static text,
I/O field, bar, text list,
multiline text, combobox, list
box, 3D bar, round button

Border Background
Color

Background color of the border

I/O Field, bar, multiline text,

combobox, list box, text list,
round button

Font Flash Color

Color that text takes on when flashing

Font color

Color of the text in an object

Static text,
I/O field, text list, multiline
text, combobox,
list box, button, check box,
radio box, round button

Selection
Background Color

Background color in the selected entry of the

selection list

Text list, multiline text

Selection Font Color Color of the font in the selected entry of the
selection list

Text list, multiline text

Scale Color

Bar

Color to display the scale and label

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Trend Color

Color of the trend display which is displays the

trend of the measurement value in the form of a
small arrow at the lower end of the bar

Bar

Dividing Line Color

Color of the dividing lines in the selection list

Text list, multiline text

Dividing Line
Background Color

Background color of the dividing lines in the

selection list

Text list, multiline text

Low Limit
Background Color

Color of the lower and left slider surface

Slider object

See also
The central color palette (Page248)
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Styles" Property Group

Introduction
The "Styles" property group contains attributes which you can use to change the style for the
appearance of objects.

Requirements
The "Styles" property group is available for all objects except application windows, picture
windows, Control and OLE object.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Styles" property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

3D border weight

Line weight of the 3D border

(unit: pixel)

Group display
button, round button

Bar pattern

Pattern to display the bar surface, for example

solid or broken

Bar

Border weight

Width of the border of a slider control

(unit: pixel)

Slider

Display as dropdown list

Display as single object with arrow button for drop- Text list
down

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Corners

Representation of the corners of an object, e.g.

round, flat or pointed
(associated with the "Line style" attribute)

all standard objects,

graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Latch down

Saves the last selected switch positioned

("Pressed" or "Not pressed")

Button, round button,

Box alignment

Arrangement of the buttons relative to the

describing text

Check box, radio box

Fill pattern

Pattern for the display of background areas, for

example solid or hatched

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle, rounded
rectangle, static text,
I/O field, bar, graphics object,
text list, combo box, list
box,
all Windows objects

Pressed

Start position of the switch

Button, round button

Background

Display of the background

3D bar

Light effect

Display of the sides of a 3D bar with different

brightness

3D bar

Line end

Representation of the line ends of an object, e.g.

round, flat or pointed
(associated with the "Line style" attribute)

all standard objects,

graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Line style

Display type of a line, for example dotted or dashed all standard objects,
graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Line end style

Display type for the end points of a line

Line, polyline, connector

Line weight

Thickness of a line
(Unit: pixel)

all standard objects,

graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects,
all tube objects

Line connection
type

Type of transition at a corner point

Polygon tube

Draw Border
Inside

Ellipse, circle, ellipse

segment, circular segment,
ellipse arc, circle arc,
rectangle, round rectangle,
static text, graphic object,
status display, all Window
objects

Border style

Display type of a border line, for example dotted

or broken

I/O field, bar, multiline text,

combo box, list box, multiline
text, 3D bar

Border width

Thickness of a border line

(unit: pixel)

I/O field, bar, multiline text,

combo box, list box, multiline
text, 3D bar

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Dividing line style

Display type of the dividing lines of a selection list,

for example dotted or broken

Text list

Dividing line
weight

Thickness of the separation lines in a selection

list
(Unit: pixel)

Text list

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

The "Display" property group

Introduction
The "Display" property group contains attributes with which you can change the optical
appearance of the objects.

Requirements
The "Display" properties group is available for all objects of the object palette besides the
following Smart objects: application window, picture window, control, OLE object, Faceplate
instance, .NET control and WPF control.

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Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Display" property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Global shadow

Takes over the global setting for

a shadow underlying the object

Single objects, I/O Field, bar,

graphic object, status display,
text list, multiline text,
combobox, list box, 3D bar,
group display, status display,
analog display, button, check
box, radio box, round button,
slider object, polygon tube, Tpiece, double T-piece, tube bend

Global color scheme

Takes on the global color

scheme

Single objects, I/O Field, bar,

graphic object, text list, button,
check box, radio box, round
button, slider object, polygon
tube, T-piece, double T-piece,
tube bend

Object transparency

Defines the transparency of the

objects between 0 (not
transparent) and 100
(completely transparent).
100 % transparent or invisible
objects can also be operated in
runtime.

Single objects, I/O Field, bar,

graphic object, text list, 3D bar,
button, check box, radio box,
round button, slider object,
polygon tube, T-piece, double Tpiece, tube bend

[V6.2] Windows Style

Shows the objects in the

Windows style of WinCC V6.2

Button, Slider object

WinCC style

Defines the design of the objects

button, round button, slider

object

Display options

Defines the type of display.

Button, round button

"Font" Property Group

Introduction
The "Font" property group contains attributes which you can use to change the appearance
of text in objects.

Prerequisites
The "Font" property group is only available for the following objects: Static text, I/O field, bar,
text list, group display, multiline text, combobox, list box, button, check box and radio box.

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Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Font" property group. The function of an attribute
is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Bold

Text is displayed in boldface

Static text,
I/O field, bar, text list, group
display
button, check box, radio box

Index

Number of the label field displayed in the dialog

Check box, radio box,

combobox, list box

Italic

Text is displayed in italics

Static text,
I/O field, text list, group
display,
button, check box, radio box

Text orientation

Horizontal or vertical arrangement of the text in the

object

Static text,
I/O field, text list,
button, check box, radio box

Text

Object label for current index

Static text,
button, check box, radio box,
multiline text, combobox, list
box

Underline

Text is displayed underlined

Static text,
I/O field, text list, group
display,
button, check box, radio box

X alignment

Horizontal alignment of the text in the object

Static text,
I/O field, text list, group
display,
button, check box, radio box

Y alignment

Vertical alignment of the text in the object

Static text,
I/O field, text list, group
display,
button, check box, radio box

Font

Font of the text

Static text,
I/O field, bar, text list, group
display
multiline text, combobox, list
box, button, check box, radio
box

Font size

Font size of the text in points

Static text,
I/O field, bar, text list, group
display
multiline text, combobox, list
box, button, check box, radio
box

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Flashing" Property Group

Introduction
The "Flashing" property group contains attributes with which you can change the flashing of
object elements. The settings of the "Flashing" property group can only be seen in Runtime.

Prerequisites
The "Flashing" property group is available for all objects except application windows, picture
windows, multiline text, combobox, list box, control, OLE object and 3D bar.
If you have selected a global design in the project, it is possible to have the color attributes of
the "Flashing" property group only become effective if the "Global color scheme" is set to "No"
under "Display".

Overview
The following table shows all the attributes of the "Flashing" property group. The function of
an attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are
listed.
Attribute

448

Function

Object type

Flashing
Activates flashing of the background
Background Active

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle, rounded
rectangle, static text,
I/O field, bar, graphics object,
text list
all Windows objects

Flashing Line
Active

Activates flashing of the line

all standard objects,

bar, graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Flashing Border
Active

Activates flashing of the border

I/O field, Text List

Flashing Text
Active

Activates flashing of the font

Static text,
I/O field, text list,
button, check box, radio box

Flash frequency

Frequency for the flashing of the group display

Group Display

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Background Flash
Frequency

Frequency for the flashing of the background

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle, rounded
rectangle, static text,
I/O field, bar, graphics object,
text list
all Windows objects

Line Flash
Frequency

Frequency for the flashing of the line

all standard objects,

bar, graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Border Flash
Frequency

Frequency for the flashing of the border

I/O field, bar, text list

Text Flash
Frequency

Frequency for the flashing of the text

Static text,
I/O field, text list,
button, check box, radio box

Flashing
Background Color
Off

Color for the flash state "Off"

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle, rounded
rectangle, static text,
I/O field, bar, graphics object,
text list
all Windows objects

Flashing
Background Color
On

Color for the flash state "On"

Polygon, ellipse, circle,

ellipse segment, pie
segment, rectangle, rounded
rectangle, static text,
I/O field, bar, graphics object,
text list
all Windows objects

Flashing Line
Color Off

Color for the flash state "Off"

all standard objects,

bar, graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Flashing Line
Color On

Color for the flash state "On"

all standard objects,

bar, graphics object, status
display,
all Windows objects

Flashing Border
Color Off

Color for the flash state "Off"

I/O field, bar, text list

Flashing Border
Color On

Color for the flash state "On"

I/O field, bar, text list

Flashing Text
Color Off

Color for the flash state "Off"

Static text,
I/O field, text list,
button, check box, radio box

Flashing Text
Color On

Color for the flash state "On"

Static text,
I/O field, text list,
button, check box, radio box

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Miscellaneous" Property Group

Introduction
The "Miscellaneous" property group contains attributes which you can use to change the
miscellaneous settings of objects.

Requirements
The "Miscellaneous" property group is available for all objects.
The availability of the attributes depends on the type of selected objects. Only the attributes
which the selected object has will be displayed.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Miscellaneous" property group. The function of
an attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are
listed.

450

Attribute

Function

Object type

Update cycle

Type and frequency of the update

Picture window, picture

object

Display

Activates the display of an object

All objects

Display options

Specifies if a button is assigned to a graphic, text,

or both

Button

Operator control
enable

Release to operate an object

All objects
except:
application window
picture window

Operator input
message

Defines whether a message is output following

operation

I/O field, text list, combo

box, list box, check box,
radio box, slider

Operator activities
report

Defines whether the reason for an operation

should be logged

I/O field, text list, combo

box, list box, slider

Operation steps

Defines how many steps the slider is moved on

the slider surface when the mouse is clicked

Slider

User value 1-4

Any 32-Bit value which for example can be used

for a script evaluation

Group display

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Authorization

User-specific authorization to operate an object

all objects
except:
application window
picture window
control

Adapt picture

Permits adaptation of the picture size to the

window size

Picture window

Picture name

Defines the name of the picture to be shown

Picture window

Picture offset X

Horizontal coordinate to define a picture section

Picture window

Picture offset Y

Vertical coordinate to define a picture section

Picture window

Picture Status Off

Defines the picture displayed when a button is

not pressed

Button

Picture status on

Defines the picture displayed when a button is

pressed

Button

Bit pattern group

display

System-internal Output Value

Group display

Cursor mode

Picture object
Specifies if a process picture is operated in
Runtime using the alpha cursor or the tab cursor.

Cursor control

Defines whether the Alpha cursor automatically

jumps to the next field of the TAB order following
input in a field

I/O field
text list

Date of last change

Indicates the date when the process picture was

last saved.

Picture object

Immediate input

Defines whether when jumping to the object it

should change directly to input mode

I/O field
text list

Extended operation

Defines whether the slider jumps to the minimum

or maximum value when the mouse is clicked on
the slider surface

Slider

Extended zooming

The view of the process picture in Runtime may

be zoomed in or out using the mouse wheel.

Picture object

Change color

Defines whether the color changes segment-bysegment or for the entire bar when the limit value
is reached

Bar

Adapt size

Permits adaptation of the window size to the

picture size

Picture window

Window mode

Defines the position and scaling of the picture

window

Picture window

Sizeable

Permits the operator to change the window size

Application window
Picture window

Hotkey

Defines a key or key combination as an

alternative operation to a mouse action

Button

Hysteresis

Permits display with hysteresis

Bar

Hysteresis Range

Defines the hysteresis in percentage of the

display range

Bar

Maximum value

Absolute value to display the largest value

Bar
3D bar
slider

Maximizable

Permits the enlargement of a window to the

maximum screen size

Application window
Picture window

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Menu/Toolbar
configuration

Enables the assignment of an MTL file with the

layout of menu and toolbars

Picture window

Minimum value

Absolute value to display the smallest value

Bar
3D bar
slider

Average value

Permits the an average value over the last 15

values

Bar

Monitor number

Defines the monitor, on which the picture window

will be displayed

Picture window

Zero point value

Absolute value to display the zero point

Bar
3D bar

Process driver
connection

Default values for the display in Runtime if the

associated tag is not linked or updated

Bar
3D bar
slider

Acknowledgment
mask

During display of the group display object, the

events "Tolerance low", "Tolerance high",
"Operator request" and "Measuring point
blocked" are automatically identified as being
acknowledged.

Group display

Border

Display of a window with or without a border

Application window
Picture window

Adapt border

Dynamic adaptation of the field border to the text

size

Static text
I/O field
text list
button
check box
radio box

Scroll bar

Permits a scroll bar in the window

Picture window

Scroll bar position X

Horizontal move of picture scroll bar in picture

window with scroll bar

Picture window

Scroll bar position Y

Vertical move of picture scroll bar in picture

window with scroll bar

Picture window

Group relevant

Defines the consideration to form a group display Group display

Group value

Collect value of the current state of the active

message classes

Group display

Closable

Permits a window to be closed

Application window
Picture window

Selected box

Defines the number of the highlighted of

displayed text field

Combo box, list box

Selected text

Shows certain text with the "Selected box"

attribute

Combo box, list box

Server name

Display under which name an embedded object

is registered in the operating system

Control
OLE object

Server prefix

Name of the server from which the picture to be

shown is called

Picture window

Scaling factor

Zoom factor to display the picture in the window

Picture window

Scaling mode

Scaling and display of the components of the

faceplate instance.

Faceplate instance

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Configured
languages

Displays the languages configured for the

selected object

Static text, button, check

box, radio box, multiline
text, combo box, list box

Text reference

Defines whether the language-dependent

assignment texts are managed in the text library
or directly in the object

Text list

Title

Activates the title bar of a window

Application window
Picture window

Tooltip text

Describing text which appears in Runtime as

soon as the cursor is positioned on the object

all objects except:

application window
picture window
control

Trend

Permits the display of the trend of a

measurement value

Bar

Heading

Headline displayed in the title bar of the picture

window

Picture window

Independent window

Defines whether the picture window can be used

in position and scaling independent of the
process picture

Picture window

Tag prefix

Name extension prefixed on all tag in the picture Picture window

Visualize tag status

Determines of the object is grayed out when a

bad quality code or tag status is detected.

Bars, I/O field, group

display, text list, 3D bar,
status display (extended),
analog display (extended)

Movable

Permits a window to be moved

Application window
Picture window

Foreground

Defines whether a window is pinned on top

Application window
Picture window

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to configure the display of windows (Page468)
How to Configure Logging and Operator Authorizations (Page469)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Filling" Property Group

Introduction
The "Filling" property group contains attributes, which you can control the dynamic filling of
objects.

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Requirements
The "Filling" property group is available for all objects. Polygon, ellipse, circle, ellipse segment,
circlular segment, rectangle, round rectangle, static text, graphic object, button, tab, option
group, round button and slider.

Overview
The following table shows all the attributes of the "Filling" property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

dynamic filling

Permits dynamic filling of objects with closed

border line

All the objects mentioned

above

Fill Level

Height of the object filling with closed border line

as a percentage of the object height

All the objects mentioned

above

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Picture" Property Group

Introduction
The "Picture" property group contains attributes with which you can change the properties of
the picture to be displayed.

Prerequisites
The "Picture" property group is only available for the object "Graphic Object".

Overview
The following table shows all attributes of the "Picture" property group and brief description of
their function.

454

Attribute

Function

Picture

Picture displayed in the Graphic Object

Picture referenced

Defines whether the picture itself or only a reference to the picture is

incorporated

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Attribute

Function

Picture Transparent Color

Defines which color of the picture is set to "transparent"

Picture Transparent Color On Permits the "Transparent Color function"

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to insert a graphic object (Page547)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Pictures" Property Group

Introduction
The "Pictures" property group contains attributes with which you can change the properties of
the pictures to be displayed for different states.

Prerequisites
The "Pictures" property group is only available for the objects "Button" and "Round Button".

Overview
The following table shows all attributes of the "Pictures" properties group. The functionality of
an attribute is described briefly and assigned to the object types for which the attribute is
available.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Picture Off Referenced

For the "Off" state, defines whether the picture itself or only a
reference to the picture are incorporated

Button, round button

Picture Off Transparent Color For the "Off" state, defines which color of the picture is set to
"Transparent"

Button, round button

Picture Off Transparent

Color On

Permits the "Transparent Color" function for the "Off" state

Button, round button

Picture Deact. Referenced

For the "Deactivated" state, defines whether the picture itself or only Round Button
a reference to the picture are incorporated

Picture Deact. Transparent

Color

For the "Deactivated" state, defines which color of the picture is set
to "Transparent"

Picture Deact. Transparent

Color On

Permits the "Transparent Color" function for the "Deactivated" state Round Button

Picture On Referenced

For the "On" state, defines whether the picture itself or only a
reference to the picture are incorporated

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Button, round button

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Picture On Transparent Color For the "On" state, defines which color of the picture is set to
"Transparent"

Button, round button

Picture On Transparent
Color On

Permits the "Transparent Color" function for the "On" state

Button, round button

Picture Status Off

Picture displayed for the "Off" state

Button, round button

Picture Status Deactivated

Picture displayed for the "Deactivated" state

Round Button

Picture Status On

Picture displayed for the "On" state

Button, round button

Picture alignment

Defies the picture alignment and scaling

Button, round button

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to insert a round button (Page594)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Status" Property Group

Introduction
The "Status" property group contains attributes with which you can change the properties of
the status display.

Requirements
The "Status" property group is only available for the object "Status Display".

Overview
The following table shows all attributes of the "Status" property group and brief description of
their function.
Attribute

Function

Current status

Status set to display a basic picture or a flash picture

Flash Picture

Picture to be displayed as a flash picture

Flash Picture Referenced

Defines whether the picture itself or only a reference to the picture is

incorporated

Flash Picture Transparent

Color

Defines which color of the flash picture is set to "transparent"

Flash Picture Transparent

Color On

Permits the "Transparent Color" function for the flash picture

Flashing Flash Picture Active Activates flashing of the flash picture

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Attribute

Function

Flash picture flash frequency Frequency for the flashing of the flash picture
Basic Picture

Picture to be displayed as basic picture

Basic Picture Referenced

Defines whether the picture itself or only a reference to the picture is

incorporated

Basic Picture Transparent

Color

Defines which color of the basic picture is set to "Transparent"

Basic Picture Transparent

Color On

Permits the "Transparent Color" function for the basic picture

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to insert a status display (Page550)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Axis" Property Group

Introduction
The "Axis" property group contains attributes with which you can change the properties of the
bar.

Requirements
The "Axis" property group is only available for the object "Bar".

Overview
The following table contains all attributes of the "Axis" property group and brief description of
their function.
Attribute

Function

Axis section

Distance between the main tick marks

(value difference between two adjacent axis labels)

Alignment

Orientation of the scale relative to the bar

(top/bottom or left/right)

Bar Scaling

Type of scale divisions

(for example linear or logarithmic)

Label Each

Number of labeled main tick marks

(each one, every second one, every third one ...)

Exponent display

Permits number representation with exponents

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Attribute

Function

Large Tick Marks

Style for the display of the main tick marks of a scale

(bold or normal)

Large Tick Marks Length

Length of the main tick marks of a scale. The length of the trend tick
marks is 50% of the value set here
(Unit: Pixels)

Decimal Places

Number of digits to the right of the decimal point to display numerical

values on the scale

Zero point

Position of the zero point relative to the distance of the scale end
values
(Unit: Percentage)

Only Large Tick Marks

Defines whether only the main tick marks or only the trend tick marks
are displayed on the scale.

Scale

Permits the display of a scale to display the values

Scale Marks

Number of bar segments subdivided by the main tick marks of the scale

Digits to the Left of the

Decimal Point

Number digits to the left of the decimal point to display numerical values
on the scale

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to insert a bar (Page539)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Limits" Property Group

Introduction
The "Limits" property group contains attributes with which you can set limit values and the
monitoring of limit values.

Requirements
The "Limits" property group is only available for the following objects. I/O field, bar and 3D bar

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Overview
The following table shows all the attributes of the "Limits" property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Type
(AH, WH, TH, RH4,
RH5,
AL, WL, TL, RL4, RL5)

Type of display for the specified limit value

(percent or absolute)

Bar

Bar color (0 - 10)

Color the 3D bar takes when the specified limit is

reached

3D Bar

Bar color
(AH, WH, TH, RH4,
RH5,
AL, WL, TL, RL4, RL5)

Color the bar takes when the specified limit is

reached

Bar

Limit (0 10)

Value of the specified limit

3D Bar

Limit Marker

Permits the display of the limit values on the scale Bar

High limit value

Upper limit to display a value in the I/O field

I/O Field

Upper limit
(AH, WH, TH, RH4, RH5)

Value of the specified upper limit

Bar

Low Limit Value

Lower limit to display a value in the I/O field

I/O Field

Lower limit
(AL, WL, TL, RL4, RL5)

Value of the specified lower limit

Bar

Monitor (0 10)

Activates monitoring of the specified limit

3D Bar

Monitor
(AH, WH, TH, RH4,
RH5,
AL, WL, TL, RL4, RL5)

Activates monitoring of the specified limit

Bar

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)
How to insert a bar (Page539)
How to Insert a 3D Bar (Page575)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Output / Input" Property Group

Introduction
The "Output / Input" property group contains attributes with which you can set the properties
of input and output values.

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Prerequisites
The "Output / Input" property group is only available for the following objects: I/O field, text list,
check box and radio box.

Overview
The following table shows all the attributes of the "Output / Input" property group. The function
of an attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are
listed.

460

Attribute

Function

Object type

Number of visible Lines

Defines how many lines the selection list should

contain

Text list

Output format

Format indication for the display of the output value I/O Field

Output value

Default values for the display in Runtime if the

associated tag is not linked or updated

I/O field, Text List

Bit Number

Number of the relevant bit in the output value

Text list

Data Format

Data type of the field content

(binary, decimal, string, hexadecimal)

I/O Field

Input value

Enables the display of the input value via direction

connection, even after acceptance with "OK".

I/O Field

Field type

Defines the function type of the field

I/O field, Text List

List type

Data type of the field content

(binary, decimal, bit)

Text list

Clear on Invalid Input

Defines whether the field content is automatically

deleted if input is incorrect

I/O Field

Clear on New Input

Defines whether the existing field contents are

deleted when the input field is activated

I/O Field

Selected boxes

Informs the system about which fields are active

Check Box

Selected Box

Informs the system about which field is activated

Radio box

Apply on Exit

Defines whether the specified data are applied on

exiting the field.

I/O field, Text List

Transfer with Complete Input Defines whether the field is automatically exited
and the data applied simultaneously as soon as
the predefined number of characters have been
entered

I/O Field

Hidden Input

Defines whether the input is visible immediately or

replaced by "*"

I/O Field

Assignments

Assignment between the output value and the

output value to be actually output

Text list

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)
How to add a text list (Page557)
How to insert a check box (Page589)
How to insert an radio box (Page592)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Message Types" Property Group

Introduction
The "Message Types" property group contains attributes with which you can set the display
of messages depending on message type and message class.

Requirements
The "Message Types" property group is only available for the object "Group Display".

Overview
The following table contains all attributes of the "Message Types" property group and brief
description of their function.
Attribute

Function

Display Text

Label of buttons depending on the displayed message type

Went Out Unacknowledged

Background Flashing

Permits flashing background when a message goes out

unacknowledged

Went Out Unacknowledged

Background Color Off

Background color for the flash state Off

Went Out Unacknowledged

Background Color On

Background color for the flash state On

Went Out Unacknowledged

Text Flashing

Permits flashing font when a message goes out unacknowledged

Went Out Unacknowledged

Text Color Off

Color of the text for the flash state Off

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Attribute

Function

Went Out Unacknowledged

Text Color On

Color of the text for the flash state On

Came in
Background flashing

Permits flashing background when a message comes in

Came in
Background Color Off

Background color for the flash state Off

Came in
Background Color On

Background color for the flash state On

Came in
Text flashing

Permits flashing text when a message comes in

Came in
Text Color Off

Color of the text for the flash state Off

Came in
Text Color On

Color of the text for the flash state On

Came in acknowledged

Background flashing

Permits flashing background when a message comes in acknowledged

Came in acknowledged

Background Color Off

Background color for the flash state Off

Came in acknowledged

Background Color On

Background color for the flash state On

Came in acknowledged

Text flashing

Permits flashing text when a message comes in acknowledged

Came in acknowledged

Text Color Off

Color of the text for the flash state Off

Came in acknowledged

Text Color On

Color of the text for the flash state On

Message Type

Defines the message type (for example AL, AH, WL, etc.) for which the
attributes of the "Message Types" property group are configured

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Insert a Group Display (Page578)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

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The "Background picture" property group

Introduction
The "Background picture" properties group contains attributes with which you can change the
picture file used and the respective display for the background picture of the process picture.

Prerequisites
The "Background picture" property group is available for the process picture.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the "Background picture" property group. The
functionality of the attribute is briefly described.
Attribute

Function

Picture

File name of the background picture

Files of format EMF, WMF, DB, BMP, GIF, JPG, JPEG and ICO are suitable

Show as

Display of the picture in relation to the process picture and runtime window

"Lock" Property Group

Introduction
The "Lock" property group contains attributes with which you can change the properties to
display locked measuring points.

Requirements
The "Lock" property group is only available for the object "Group Display".

Overview
The following table contains all attributes of the "Lock" property group and a brief description
of their function.
Attribute

Function

Lock Display

Permits viewing a locked measuring point

Lock Display Text

Label of the buttons for a locked measuring point

Lock Background Color

Background color of the buttons for a locked measuring point

Lock Text Color

Font color of the buttons for a locked measuring point

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Insert a Group Display (Page578)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Connected Objects" Property Group

Introduction
The "Connected Objects" property group contains attributes with which you can change the
connection of two objects using the "Connector" object.

Requirements
The "Connected Objects" property group is only available for the object "Connector".

Overview
The following table shows all attributes of the "Connected Objects" property group and brief
description of their function.

464

Attribute

Function

Object name of the source object

Defines the object which is connected to the beginning of the

connector

Connection point index of the source

object

Defines for the beginning at which connection point of the

source object the connection is established

Object name of the target object

Defines the object which is connected to the end of the

connector

Connection point index of the target

object

Defines for the end at which connection point of the target

object the connection is established

Change Orientation

Turns the definition from the "Start" and "End" of the

connector with the current assignments around.

Connection Type

Defines whether an automatic or simple direct connection

should be created between the objects.

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to use the connector (Page506)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

"Assignment" Property Group

Introduction
The "Assignment" property group contains attributes you use to assign message types to
buttons of the group display object. The display of message types is configured in the "Message
Types" property group.

Requirements
The "Assignment" property group is only available for the "Group Display" object.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes of the "Assignment" property group and a brief
description of their function.
Attribute

Function

Message Types for Button 1

Specifies one or several message events for the first button

of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 2

Specifies one or several message events for the second

button of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 3

Specifies one or several message events for the third button

of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 4

Specifies one or several message events for the fourth button

of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 5

Specifies one or several message events for the fifth button

of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 6

Specifies one or several message events for the sixth button

of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 7

Specifies one or several message events for the seventh

button of the group display object.

Message Types for Button 8

Specifies one or several message events for the eighth

button of the group display object.

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page434)
How to Insert a Group Display (Page578)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)

3.8.5.4

Special Runtime Settings

Special Runtime Settings

Introduction
To display and operate individual objects in Runtime, there are different attributes available
whose change is only visible in Runtime:
Rotation of objects
Display of windows
Operation and logging
Multiple picture windows
The objects can also be displayed as transparent right to invisible in runtime.
These settings are described extensively below.

See also
Property Groups and Attributes (Page437)
How to Configure Logging and Operator Authorizations (Page469)
How to configure the display of windows (Page468)
Setting Up Rotation of Objects (Page466)
How to support multiple picture windows (Page470)
How to define the visibility of objects (Page473)

Setting Up Rotation of Objects

Introduction
A rotation around a reference point can be configured for objects of the type line, polygon,
polyline or static text.
The rotation of an object is only visible in Runtime.

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The coordinates of the reference point and the configured start position are defined by the
attributes "Rotation reference X", "Rotation reference Y" and "Rotation angle in the "Geometry"
property group.

Rotation reference X, Rotation reference Y

The attribute "Rotation reference X" and "Rotation reference Y" define the horizontal and
vertical distance of the reference point from the object origin.
The values are specified in percent. The object width or object height correspond to a value
of 100%. The reference point value can be outside the selection rectangle. This means that
both negative values and values higher than 100% are possible.

Rotation angle
The "Rotation Angle" attribute defines the rotation of an object around the reference point.
The Rotation Angle is specified in degrees. The configured start point corresponds to a value
of 0. The position of an object deviates from its configured start position by the value of the
"Rotation Angle" attribute.

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See also
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Special Runtime Settings (Page466)
How to Draw a Polyline (Page483)
How to Draw a Polygon (Page481)
How to Draw a Line (Page478)

How to configure the display of windows

Introduction
The "Application Window" and "Picture Window" objects are displayed in Runtime as a window
in a process picture. The properties of this window display can be changed as required with
the attributes described here. Some of these attributes are available for other object types.

Adapt Size
The "Adapt Size" attribute specifies whether or not a picture window adapts to the size of the
embedded picture in Runtime.

Sizeable
The "Sizeable" attribute specifies whether or not the size of a window can be changed in
Runtime.

Border
The "Border" attribute specifies whether or not a window is displayed with a border.

Scroll Bar
The "Scroll Bar" attribute specifies whether or not a picture window is displayed with a scroll
bar if required. A scrollbar is only visible in Runtime.

Can Be Closed
The "Can Be Closed" attribute specifies whether or not a window can be closed in Runtime.

Title
The "Title" attribute specifies whether a window is displayed in Runtime with or without a title
bar.

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Heading
The "Heading" attribute specifies which text appears in the title of a picture window.

Movable
The "Movable" attribute specifies whether or not a window can be moved in Runtime.

Foreground
The "Foreground" attribute specifies whether or not a window lies in the foreground. This
setting is independent of the layer to which the window is assigned.

See also
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Special Runtime Settings (Page466)
"Miscellaneous" Property Group (Page450)
How to insert a picture window (Page516)
How to Insert an Application Window (Page513)

How to Configure Logging and Operator Authorizations

Introduction
In WinCC to operate a process picture you can define user-specific authorization for the
contained objects. Each Operation may be logged and sent to the message system. The
associated settings can be changed with the attributes described here.

Display
The "Display" attribute specifies whether or not an object is displayed in Runtime.

Operator-Control Enable
The "Operator-Control Enable" attribute specifies whether or not an object can be operated in
Runtime.

Operator input message

The "Operator Input Message" attribute specifies whether or not a message is displayed after
an operation. If the attribute "Operator Input Message" has been set to "yes", a message is
generated upon operation, sent to the message system and archived. Using the message
system, a message may be output in a message line, for example.

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Operator Activities Report

The "Operator Activities Report" attribute specifies whether or not the reason for an operation
is to be logged by the operator. The Operator Activities Report is archived in the message
system.

Authorization
The User Administrator editor is used in WinCC to assign authorizations for the users. An
authorization can be assigned for every object in the Graphics Designer. The object can only
be operated by those users with the corresponding authorization.
Note
An object can only receive an operator authorization as a "Whole". A customized object can
have an operator authorization but its subordinate objects cannot.

Cursor Control
The "Cursor Control" attribute specifies whether the Alpha Cursor automatically jumps to the
next field in the TAB sequence after an entry has been made in a field. This function enables
rapid input in different fields without having to use the tab key to jump.

Hotkey
As an alternative to operation with the mouse, a button can also be triggered using the
keyboard. To do so, a hotkey must be set.

See also
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Special Runtime Settings (Page466)
"Miscellaneous" Property Group (Page450)

How to support multiple picture windows

Introduction
WinCC supports independent picture windows. Independent picture windows can be can be
used and positioned absolutely without being connected to the respective process picture.
With the respective hardware and the support of the operating system, you can control more
monitors to handle processes with greater scope and differentiation.
For example, you can visualize the process on monitors 1 to 3 and use monitor 4 to display
another view of the process with an Excel list.
The main window, in which you have configured the individual picture window, is no longer
required. You can hide it to increase the impact of more independent runtime windows.

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Procedure
1. Configure more picture windows with the desired process pictures in the start picture.
2. Open the properties for each picture window with a double click.
The "Object Properties" dialog is opened.

3. Set the attribute "Independent window" to "Yes".

4. Define the display for the configured picture window with window mode:
Standard: configured size in the configured position
Center: configured size in the central position
Maximize: display adapted to the size of the monitor
5. If you want to use more monitors:
Select the desired monitor for the picture window with the "Monitor number" attribute.

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6. If you want to hide the main window:
Select "Properties" in the WinCC Explorer of the pop-up menu of the computer, select the
respective computer and click on "Properties".
The "Computer Properties" dialog opens.

7. Activate check box "Hide main window" on the "Graphics Runtime" tab under "Independent
picture window".

Results
In runtime, the selected process pictures appear in several picture windows that are to be
controlled independent of one another.

See also
How to insert a picture window (Page516)

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How to define the visibility of objects

Introduction
The visibility of objects is controlled with the "Object transparency" property. The operability
of an object does not depend on its visibility. Even a completely transparent, or invisible, object
can be controlled in runtime.

Procedure
1. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu.
The "Properties" dialog opens.
2. Define the object transparency as a percentage in the "Display" property group.
0% means no transparency, therefore complete visibility.
100% means complete transparency, therefore invisibility of the object.
The text and fields of the graphic objects are only transparent at 100%.
Note
The transparency of the object is shown in the Graphics Designer as well as later in
runtime.

Finding objects again

A 100% transparent object cannot be seen in the project as well as in runtime. The selection
marks for the rectangle surrounding the object are also not seen in the project.
Use the setting with the knowledge that operation of an invisible object is still possible.
In order to have an overview of which objects belong to the process picture in the project,
select the "View Project Documentation" command in the "File" menu.
Existing, invisible objects are also included in the project documentation. The position of the
objects in the process picture are indicated in the schematic overview graphic.

3.8.6

Working with Objects in the Object Palette

3.8.6.1

Working with Objects in the Object Palette

Introduction
"Objects" in the Graphics Designer are the predefined graphic elements that enable efficient
creation of process pictures. You can easily insert all objects into a picture from the object

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palette. The "Default" register tab of the Object Palette provides the objects in the following
four object groups:
Standard objects

Smart objects

Windows objects

Tube objects

Line
polygon
polygon line
ellipse
circle
ellipse segment
circle segment
ellipse arc
circle arc
rectangle
rounded rectangle
static text
connector

Application window
Picture window
Control
OLE object
I/O Field
Bar
Graphic object
Status display
Text list
Multi-line text
Combobox
List box
Faceplate instance
.NET control
WPF control
3D bar
Group display
Status display (Ext.)
Analog display (Ext.)

Button
Check-Box
Radio Box
Round button
Slider object

Polygon tube
T-piece
Double T-piece
Tube bend

Note
Line display when zooming in "WinCC Classic" design
If you have set the "WinCC Classic" design, all occurrences of a dashed line with a line
thickness of "1" are shown as a solid in the Graphics Designer when zooming over 100%.
This effect is dictated by the graphics system of Microsoft. The effect does not occur if the
line thickness is greater than "1" or the zoom is less than 100% or if another design is defined.

See also
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

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3.8.6.2

Working with Standard Objects

Working with Standard Objects

Introduction
The standard objects include geometric shapes and static text. The geometric shapes draw
the individual elements of the process picture. For example, static text can be used for labels.
In the Graphics Designer, the various object types have default properties. When they are
inserted the objects import these default properties (except for individual geometric properties).
After insertion the properties of an object can be modified. In the same way the default settings
for the object types can be modified as required.

Overview
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Description

Line

The line is an open object. The length and angle of a line are determined
by the height and width of the rectangle around the object. The line
ends, for example, can be shown as arrows or points.

Polygon

The polygon is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern.
A polygon can have any number of corners. The corners are numbered
in their sequence of creation and can be modified individually or deleted.

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Icon

476

Object

Description

Polyline

The polyline is an open object. Even if the start and finish point have
the same coordinates, the area cannot be filled. A polyline can have
any number of corners. The corners are numbered in their sequence
of creation and can be modified individually or deleted. The line ends
of a polyline can for example be shown as arrows or points.

Ellipse

The ellipse is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern.
The height and width of an ellipse can be modified as desired to allow
it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Circle

A circle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A

circle can be resized at will.

Ellipse
segment

The ellipse segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or
pattern. The height and width of an ellipse segment can be modified as
desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Pie segment

The pie segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or
pattern. A pie segment can be resized at will.

Ellipse arc

The ellipse arc is an open object. The height and width of an ellipse arc
can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or
vertically.

Circular arc

The circular arc is an open object. A circular arc can be resized at will.

Rectangle

The rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern.
The height and width of a rectangle can be modified as desired to allow
it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Rounded
rectangle

The rounded rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color
or pattern. The height and width of a rounded rectangle can be modified
as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically. The corners
of a rounded rectangle can be rounded as much as desired.

Static text

The field for static text is a closed object that can be filled with a color
or pattern. The static text is entered into a field of any desired size. Oneline or multiline text can be input for all design languages.

Connector

The connector is a linear object whose ends can be connected with the
connection points of other objects. The number and arrangement of the
connection points depend on the specific object type. If connected
objects are moved, the connector's length and direction are
automatically adapted and the connection is retained.

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See also
How to Draw a Line (Page478)
How to Draw a Polygon (Page481)
How to Draw a Polyline (Page483)
How to Draw an Ellipse (Page487)
How to Draw a Circle (Page489)
How to draw an Ellipse Arc (Page491)
How to Draw a Circular Arc (Page493)
How to Draw an Ellipse Segment (Page495)
How to Draw a Pie Segment (Page497)
How to Draw a Rectangle (Page500)
How to Draw a Rounded Rectangle (Page502)
How to Insert Static Text (Page504)
How to use the connector (Page506)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

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How to Draw a Line

Introduction
The line is an open object. The length and angle of a line are determined by the height and
width of the rectangle around the object. The line ends, for example, can be shown as arrows
or points.

Drawing a line
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a line.
2. Click the "Line" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
line.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the line to the length and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the line is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the line in the Object Palette. A line with default object
properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing a line
Select an object of the line type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

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Actions with the mouse

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the line color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Configuring the Line Style

Line style
The "Line Style" attribute specifies the style in which a line appears. For example, a dotted or
dashed representation is possible.
A line with line weight 1 pixel can be displayed in two colors. To do so, you must select a broken
line style and assign another color to the background of the line. If the line color is identical to
the line background color in the "Colors" property group, breaks in the line are invisible.
Five line styles are available for selection.

Line termination
The "Line termination" attribute determines the appearance of the line termination. The
definition of the attribute applies to both ends of the line. Select one of the three following
options:
A round termination sets the center of a circle at the end point of the line. The diameter of
the circle adapts to the line weight.
A rectangular termination set the center of a square at the end point of the line. The width
and the height of the square adapts to the line weight.
A flat termination ends the line at its end points.

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Configuring line end style

The "Line End Style" attribute specifies the style of the ends of a line object. The ends of a line
object can have different shapes. For example, a line can begin with a dot and end with an
arrow.

Configuring rotation in Runtime

The line can rotate around a reference point in Runtime. The rotation is defined by the attributes
"Rotation Reference X", "Rotation Reference Y" and "Rotation Angle".

See also
Setting Up Rotation of Objects (Page466)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

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How to Draw a Polygon

Introduction
The polygon is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A polygon can have
any number of corners. The corners are numbered in their sequence of creation and can be
modified individually or deleted.

Drawing a polygon
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a polygon.
2. Click the standard object "Polygon" in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
polygon.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Click the selected starting point with the left mouse button.
5. Click any other desired corner of the polygon with the left muse button.
6. Click once with the right mouse button to correct the last drawn section of the polygon.
7. Finish the polygon by double-clicking the left mouse button.

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Alternatively, you can double-click the polygon in the Object Palette. A polygon with default
object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing a polygon
Select an object of the polygon type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Actions with the mouse

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Changing corners
The positions of the corners can be changed with the attributes "Current Value X" and "Current
Value Y" in the "Object Properties" window. The position number of the current selected corner
is shown by the "Index" attribute in the "Geometry" property group. Changing the value
specified here enables targeted selection of a corner. A change of the "Index" attribute for the
current selected corner also changes the displayed value of the attributes "Current Value X"
and "Current Value Y".
You can also change corners by actions with the mouse:

Moving corners
Position the mouse pointer on the corner that is to be moved and drag it to the desired position
with the mouse button held down.

Inserting corners
Hold down the <ALT> key and insert another corner by double-clicking on a corner. The
additional corner is inserted between the clicked corner and the previously created corner.

Deleting corners
Position the mouse pointer of the corner that you want to delete. Hold down the <CTRL> key
and delete the corner by double-clicking on the left mouse button.

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Configuring rotation in Runtime

The line can rotate around a reference point in Runtime. The rotation is defined by the attributes
"Rotation Reference X", "Rotation Reference Y" and "Rotation Angle".

See also
Setting Up Rotation of Objects (Page466)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

How to Draw a Polyline

Introduction
The polyline is an open object. Even if the start and finish point have the same coordinates,
the area cannot be filled. A polyline can have any number of corners. The corners are
numbered in their sequence of creation and can be modified individually or deleted. The line
ends of a polyline can for example be shown as arrows or points.

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Drawing a polygon line

1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a polyline.
2. Click the "Polyline" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
polyline.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Click the selected starting point with the left mouse button.
5. Click every other desired corner of the polyline with the left mouse button.
6. Click once with the right mouse button to correct the last drawn section of the polyline.
7. Finish the polyline by double-clicking the left mouse button.
Alternatively you can double-click the polyline in the Object Palette. A polyline with default
object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing a polyline
Select an object of the polyline type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the line color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Changing corners
The positions of the corners can be changed with the attributes "Current Value X" and "Current
Value Y" in the "Object Properties" window. The position number of the current selected corner
is shown by the "Index" attribute in the "Geometry" property group. Changing the value
specified here enables targeted selection of a corner. A change of the "Index" attribute for the
current selected corner also changes the displayed value of the attributes "Current Value X"
and "Current Value Y".
You can also change corners by actions with the mouse:

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Moving corners
Position the mouse pointer on the corner that is to be moved and drag it to the desired position
with the mouse button held down.

Inserting corners
Hold down the <ALT> key and insert another corner by double-clicking on a corner. The
additional corner is inserted between the clicked corner and the previously created corner.

Deleting corners
Position the mouse pointer of the corner that you want to delete. Hold down the <CTRL> key
and delete the corner by double-clicking on the left mouse button.

Configuring the Line Style

Line style
The "Line Style" attribute specifies the style in which a line appears. For example, a dotted or
dashed representation is possible.
A line with line weight 1 pixel can be displayed in two colors. To do so, you must select a broken
line style and assign another color to the background of the line. If the line color is identical to
the line background color in the "Colors" property group, breaks in the line are invisible.
Five line styles are available for selection.

Line termination
The "Line termination" attribute determines the appearance of the line termination. The
definition of the attribute applies to both ends of the line. Select one of the three following
options:
A round termination sets the center of a circle at the end point of the line. The diameter of
the circle adapts to the line weight.
A rectangular termination set the center of a square at the end point of the line. The width
and the height of the square adapts to the line weight.
A flat termination ends the line at its end points.

Corners
The "Corners" attribute define the appearance of the corner intersections of where lines meet.
The definition applies to all the corners of the object. Select one of the three following options:

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A round corner sets the center of a circle at the intersection of two line ends. The diameter
of the circle adapts to the line weight.
The two outer corner points of the line connection are linked by a straight line. This flattening
effect causes the corners to appear beveled.
A pointed corner corresponds to the real corner intersection of the meeting lines.

Configuring line end style

The "Line End Style" attribute specifies the style of the ends of a line object. The ends of a line
object can have different shapes. For example, a line can begin with a dot and end with an
arrow.

Configuring rotation in Runtime

The line can rotate around a reference point in Runtime. The rotation is defined by the attributes
"Rotation Reference X", "Rotation Reference Y" and "Rotation Angle".

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See also
Setting Up Rotation of Objects (Page466)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

How to Draw an Ellipse

Introduction
The ellipse is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height and width of
an ellipse can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

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Drawing an ellipse
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an ellipse.
2. Click on the "Ellipse" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
ellipse.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the ellipse to the size and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the ellipse is finished.
Alternatively, you can double-click the ellipse in the Object Palette. An ellipse with default
object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the ellipse, the "Ellipse" object is created in
the shape of a circle.

Changing an ellipse
Select an object of the Ellipse type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

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How to Draw a Circle

Introduction
A circle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A circle can be resized at
will.

Drawing a circle
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a circle.
2. Click the "Circle" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
circle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the circle to the size and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the circle is finished.
Alternatively you can double click the circle in the Object Palette. A circle with default object
properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
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Change circle
Select an object of the circle type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

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How to draw an Ellipse Arc

Introduction
The ellipse arc is an open object. The height and width of an ellipse arc can be modified as
desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically. An ellipse arc is by default a quarter
ellipse and can be configured after it has been created.

Drawing an ellipse arc

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert an ellipse arc.
2. Click the "Ellipse arc" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you wish to position the center
point of the ellipse arc.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the ellipse arc to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the ellipse arc insertion is finished.

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5. The start and end points of the ellipse arc are shown by small gray squares. Position the
mouse pointer over one of these squares.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points with either an A (start angle)
or E (end angle) above it.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.
Alternatively, you can double-click the ellipse arc in the Object Palette. An ellipse arc with
default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the ellipse, the "Ellipse arc" object is created
in the shape of a arc.

Changing an ellipse arc

Select an object of the Ellipse Arc type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the line color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Setting the length of the ellipse arc

The length of the ellipse arc is set by the "Start Angle" and "End Angle" attributes. They specify
the angle in degrees by which the start and end angle of the object deviate from the zero
position (0).
The start and end points of the ellipse arc are shown by small gray squares. Place the mouse
pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points
with either an A (start angle) or E (end angle) above it. Drag the start or end point to the desired
position while holding down the mouse button.
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, an ellipse arc does not turn into a
closed ellipse.

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See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

How to Draw a Circular Arc

Introduction
The circular arc is an open object. A circular arc can be resized at will. A circular arc is by
default a quarter circle and can be configured after it has been created.

Drawing a circular arc

1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a circular arc.
2. Click the "Circular arc" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you wish to position the center
point of the circular arc.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.

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4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the circular arc to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the circular arc insertion is finished.
5. The start and end points of the circular arc are shown by small gray squares. Place the
mouse pointer on one of these squares.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points with either an A (start angle)
or E (end angle) above it.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.
Alternatively, you can double-click the circular arc in the Object Palette. A circular arc with
default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing circular arc

Select an object of the Circular Arc type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the line color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Configuring the length of the circular arc

The length of the circular arc is set by the "Start Angle" and "End Angle" attributes. They specify
the angle in degrees by which the start and end angle of the object deviate from the zero
position (0).
The start and end points of the circular arc are shown by small gray squares. Place the mouse
pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points
with either an A (start angle) or E (end angle) above it. Drag the start or end point to the desired
position while holding down the mouse button.
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, a circular arc does not turn into a
closed circle.

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See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

How to Draw an Ellipse Segment

Introduction
The ellipse segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height and
width of an ellipse segment can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or
vertically. An ellipse segment is by default a quarter ellipse and can be configured after it has
been created.

Drawing an ellipse segment

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a ellipse segment.
2. Click the "Ellipse segment" standard object in the Object palette.

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3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you wish to position the center
point of the ellipse segment.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the ellipse segment to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the ellipse segment insertion is finished.
5. The start and end points of the ellipse segment are shown by small gray squares. Position
the mouse pointer over one of these squares.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points with either an A (start angle)
or E (end angle) above it.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.
Alternatively, you can double-click the ellipse segment in the Object Palette. An ellipse
segment with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key while drawing, the "Ellipse Segment" object is created in
the shape of a pie segment.

Changing an ellipse segment

Select an object of the ellipse segment type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Configuring size of the ellipse segment

The length of the ellipse segment is set by the "Start Angle" and "End Angle" attributes. They
specify the angle in degrees by which the start and end angle of the object deviate from the
zero position (0).
The start and end points of the ellipse segment are shown by small gray squares. Place the
mouse pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow
points with either an A (start angle) or E (end angle) above it. Drag the start or end point to the
desired position while holding down the mouse button.

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Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, an ellipse segment does not turn
into a closed ellipse.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

How to Draw a Pie Segment

Introduction
The pie segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A pie segment can
be resized at will. A pie segment is by default a quarter circle and can be configured after it
has been created.

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Drawing a pie segment

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a pie segment.
2. Click in the "pie segment" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you wish to position the center
point of the pie segment.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the pie segment to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the pie segment insertion is finished.
5. The start and end points of the pie segment are shown by small gray squares. Position the
mouse pointer over one of these squares.
The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points with either an A (start angle)
or E (end angle) above it.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.
Alternatively, you can double-click the pie segment in the Object Palette. A pie segment with
default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing Pie Segment

Select an object of the pie segment type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Configuring size of the pie segment

The size of the pie segment is set by the "Start Angle" and "End Angle" attributes. They specify
the angle in degrees by which the start and end angle of the object deviate from the zero
position (0).
The start and end points of the pie segment are shown by small gray squares. Place the mouse
pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrow points

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with either an A (start angle) or E (end angle) above it. Drag the start or end point to the desired
position while holding down the mouse button.
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, a pie segment does not turn into
a closed circle.

See also
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)

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How to Draw a Rectangle

Introduction
The rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height and width
of a rectangle can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Drawing a rectangle
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a rectangle.
2. Click the "Rectangle" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
rectangle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the rectangle to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the rectangle is finished.
Alternatively, you can double-click the rectangle in the Object Palette. A rectangle with default
object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key while drawing, the "Rectangle" object is created in the shape
of a square.

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Changing rectangle
Select an object of the Rectangle type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

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How to Draw a Rounded Rectangle

Introduction
The rounded rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height
and width of a rounded rectangle can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally
or vertically. The corners of a rounded rectangle can be rounded as much as desired.

Drawing a rounded rectangle

1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a rounded rectangle.
2. Click the "Rounded rectangle" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the rounded
rectangle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the rounded rectangle to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the rounded rectangle is finished.

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Alternatively, you can double-click the rounded rectangle in the Object Palette. A rounded
rectangle with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the rounded rectangle, the "Rounded
rectangle" object is created in the shape of a circular arc.

Changing Rounded Rectangle

Select an object of the Static Text type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Changing corner radii

The radii for rounding the corners of the rounded rectangle are specified with the "corner radius
X" and "corner radius Y" attributes. They define the horizontal or vertical distance between the
corners of the rectangle around the object and the starting point of the corner rounding. The
value is specified as a percentage of the half width and the half height of the object.
Note
If the "Corner Radius X" and "Corner Radius Y" attributes are both set to the value 100%,
the rounded rectangle is displayed as an ellipse or circle. The rectangle is shown without
rounded corners when either one of the two attributes is set to 0%.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

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How to Insert Static Text

Introduction
The field for static text is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The static
text is entered into a field of any desired size. One-line or multiline text can be input for all
design languages.

Inserting static text

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert static text.
2. Click the "static text" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the static
text.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the text field to the required size.
The field for the static text is complete as soon as you release the mouse button.
Several marked question marks will appear in the field.
5. Overwrite these question marks with the desired text.
For text with multiple lines, you can make a line break with the key combination <SHIFT
+ENTER> or <CTRL+M>.
6. Press <ENTER> to finish text input.

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Alternatively you can double-click static text in the Object Palette. Static text with default object
properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the static text, the "Static text" object is created
in the shape of a circular arc.

Changing static text

Select an object of the Static Text type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object or to change the
appearance of the text.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Changing the Contents of the Static Text

Double-click the static text to open the input mode for text. The complete text is selected.
Position the insertion point with another click at the position in the text at which you want to
change something.
Line breaks must be entered manually: You can create a line break with either <SHIFT
+ENTER> or <CTRL+M>.
A line break is shown in the "Object Properties" window in the "Static" column as a control
character.

Configuring rotation in Runtime

The static text can be rotated around a reference point in Runtime. The rotation is defined by
the attributes "Rotation Reference X", "Rotation Reference Y" and "Rotation Angle". The
rotation is displayed in Graphics Designer during configuration.
In order to rotate static text in a group object, watch for the following:
The current position and the rotation angle of the object "Static text" in Runtime are always
the result of the current values of properties "RotationReferenceX", "RotationReferenceY" and
"Rotation Angle". The orientation of static text depends on the sequence in which these
properties were applied.

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If the rotation references refer to the group object, the display in Runtime may deviate from
the display in the configuration system. This is caused by the fact that the sequence in which
these properties are updated is not always the same due to system constraints. You avoid
unexpected display problems in Runtime, if you do not dynamisize the properties
RotationReferenceX, RotationReferenceY and RotationAngle directly at the group object.
Instead, perform the dynamization directly at the respective object "Static Text" within the group
object.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

How to use the connector

Introduction
The connector is a linear object whose ends can be connected with the connection points of
other objects. Multiple connectors can also be connected together.
The number and arrangement of the connection points depend on the specific object type. If
connected objects are moved, the connector's length and direction are automatically adapted
and the connection is retained.
It is possible to select between two connection types. In the case of "Automatic" connection
type, the connector is comprised of horizontal and vertical parts.

If the connection type "Simple" is selected, the connecting points are connected by a straight
line.

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The start and end of a selected connector can be highlighted by small colored rectangles to
show their status:
Green rectangles identify unconnected ends
Red rectangles identify connected ends

Inserting connectors
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a connector.
2. In the Object Palette, click the standard object "Connector".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
connector.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the connector to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the connector insertion is finished.
The connector is displayed as a selected object with green ends.
Alternatively, you can double-click the connector in the Object Palette. A connector with default
object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing a connector
Select an object of the connector type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Palettes and toolbars

Use the color palette to change the line color.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

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Connecting objects

1. Select the connector which you would like to connect objects two.
Start and end of the connectors are symbolized by small green rectangles.
2. Drag the start of the connector to the first object that you want to connect without releasing
the mouse button.
The red connection points of the object to be connected in the beginning are displayed.
3. Position the start of the connector on the desired connection point of the object.
As soon as the mouse button is released, the connection to the first object is established.
The start of the selected connector is shown as red and the other unconnected end is green.
4. Drag the end of the connector to the second object that you want to connect without
releasing the mouse button.
The red connection points of the object to be connected in the end are displayed.
5. Position the end of the connector on the desired connection point of the second
object.
As soon as the mouse button is released, the connection is established. The beginning and
end of the selected connector are now symbolized by red rectangles.
The position of the connected objects can be changed as needed.

Changing connection
Select the connector and drag one end of the connector to the new position. For example, you
can connect the end to another connection point of the same object, or to a connection point
on a new object.
Alternatively you can change the attributes of the "Connected Objects" property group in the
"Object Properties" window.
The type of connector can be changed within the "Connected objects" property group using
the "Connection type" attribute. Select between the two connection types "Automatic" and
"Simple".

Releasing connection
Select the desired connector and press <DEL> to delete the "Connector" object.

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See also
"Connected Objects" Property Group (Page464)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

3.8.6.3

Working with Smart Objects

Working with Smart Objects

Introduction
Smart objects offer the option of building complex system pictures. The smart objects include
items such as various windows, fields and bars, which offer a variety of dynamic options.
In the Graphics Designer, the various object types have default properties. When added,
objects take on these defaults, with the exception of individual geometric properties. After
inserting the properties you can modify the properties of an object. In the same way, you can
adapt the default settings for the object types as required.

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Overview
Symbol

Object

Description

Application
Window

The application window is an object that can be provided from

applications of the global script and the logging system. In Runtime,
these applications open an application window, transfer information
and enable operation.
The size and properties which an application window accepts in
Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Picture Window

The picture window offers the option of displaying other pictures that
were created with the Graphics Designer in the current picture. For
example, with dynamics the contents of a picture window can be
continuously updated.
The size and properties that a picture window has in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

Control

The Object Control provides the option to integrate system process

control and monitoring elements into a picture. Controls are
prefinished objects such as for example alarm windows, measurement
value windows, selection dialogs or buttons. ActiveX Controls, WinCC
Controls and controls from other manufacturers are available if they
are registered in the operating system. These are changed as required
and dynamically integrated into the process.
The size and properties which a control accepts in Runtime are defined
in the Graphics Designer.

OLE object

The OLE object enables files created in other programs to be inserted

into a picture. Therefore all OLE object registered in the operating
system can be integrated.
The size and properties which an OLE object accepts in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.
No changes can be made to OLE objects in Runtime.

I/O Field

The I/O Field can be defined as an input field, an output field or a

combined input/output field. The following data formats are available:
Binary, decimal, string and hexadecimal. Limit values such as "Hidden
Input" or "Accept on complete input" can also be specified.
The size and properties which an I/O Field accepts in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

Bar

The bar offers the option of displaying values graphically. The values
can also be displayed in a combined view as graphics with freely
definable number scale.
The size and properties which a bar accepts in Runtime are defined
in the Graphics Designer.

Graphic Object

The graphic object enables graphics created in other programs to be

inserted into a picture. Graphics and pictures of the following formats
can be inserted:
EMF, WMF, DIB, BMP (to 32 Bit), GIF, JPEG, ICO and PNG.
The size and properties which a graphic object accepts in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

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Symbol

Object

Description

Status display

The status display offers the option to display almost any number of
different states of an object. The states are implemented via tags
whose value corresponds to the respective state. The states are
displayed via the assigned pictures.
The size and properties which a status display accepts in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

Text list

The text list offers the option of assigning specific values to a text. The
text list can be defined as an input list, an output list or as a combined
input/output list. The following data formats are available: Decimal,
binary or bit.
The size and properties which a text list has in Runtime are defined in
the Graphics Designer.

Multiple row text The Multiline Text object makes it possible to display text over several
lines in a rectangular, scrolling field and to edit it in runtime.
The size and properties which a multiline text takes on in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.
Combo box

The combobox makes it possible to display a drop-down list of several

values and to use the selection as the input.
The size and properties which a combobox takes on in runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

List box

The list box makes it possible to highlight a scrolling list of several

values and to use the selection as an input.
The size and properties which a list box accepts in Runtime are defined
in the Graphics Designer.

Faceplate
Instance

You can insert a Faceplate instance into the picture with the Faceplate
instance object. Faceplate types must first be saved on your system.
The size and properties which a Faceplate instance has in runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

.NET Control

You insert a .NET application (Assembly) as a control into your picture

with the .NET control object.
The size and properties which a .NET control takes on in runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

WPF Control

The WPF control object makes it possible to insert a WPF file into your
picture as a control.
The size and properties which a WPF control accepts in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

3D Bar

The 3D bar graph enables values to be displayed graphically threedimensionally.

The size and properties which a 3D bar has in Runtime are defined in
the Graphics Designer.
The 3D bar is only available if the "Basic Process Control" optional
package was installed with WinCC.

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Symbol

Object

Description

Group Display

The group display enables the current states of certain message types
to be displayed by hierarchy. Four buttons allow messages to be
represented and operated. Using a group display, you can configure
a quick change to represent an error source for example.
The size and properties which a group display accepts in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.
The group display is only available if the "Basic Process Control"
optional package was installed with WinCC.

Status display
(Ext.)

You can use an extended status display to assign "Came In" (+),
"Came In Acknowledged" (+Q) and "Went Out Unacknowledged" (-)
and "OK" picture statuses.
The sizes and properties of the extended status display in runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.
Extended status display is available only when a PCS 7 OS is installed.

Analog display
(Ext.)

The extended analog display is used to display the value of a tag in

different colors depending on the alarm status of a component.
The sizes and properties of the extended analog display in runtime
are defined in the Graphics Designer.
Extended analog display is available only when a PCS 7 OS is
installed.

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See also
How to Insert an Application Window (Page513)
How to insert a picture window (Page516)
How to insert a control (Page520)
How to Insert an OLE Object (Page522)
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)
How to insert a bar (Page539)
How to insert a graphic object (Page547)
How to insert a status display (Page550)
How to add a text list (Page557)
How to insert multiline text (Page565)
How to insert a combobox (Page567)
How to insert a list box (Page569)
How to insert a Faceplate instance (Page571)
How to insert a .NET control (Page572)
How to insert a WPF control (Page573)
How to Insert a 3D Bar (Page575)
How to Insert a Group Display (Page578)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

How to Insert an Application Window

Introduction
The application window is an object that can be provided from applications of the global script
and the logging system. In Runtime, these applications open an application window, transfer

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information and enable operation. The size and properties which an application window
accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Inserting application window

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert an application window.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Application Window".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
application window.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the application window to the required size.
The "Window contents" dialog will open.
5. In the "Window Contents" dialog select the desired display option and confirm your input
with "OK".
The "Template" dialog will open.
6. In the "Template" dialog select a template for the selected display option and confirm your
input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "Application window" object is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "Application Window" in the object palette.
An application window with the default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
The "Window Contents" and "Template" dialogs open. As soon as you have confirmed your
entries with "OK", the insertion process is completed.

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If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the size change, the object "Application window"
will assume the shape of a square.

Changing application windows

Select an object of the application window type if you wish to carry out one of the following
changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Configuring window contents and template

The contents of the application window are changed with the "Window Contents" and
"Template" attributes. Application windows can be provided from applications of the global
script and the logging system. In Runtime, these applications open an application window,
transfer information and enable operation.
The "Window Contents" attribute specifies for an application window which application is to be
displayed. The "Template" attribute specifies the template for displaying the window contents.
Depending on the value of the "Window Contents" attribute the following templates are
available:

Window Contents = Global Script

GSC diagnostics
The application window is supplied by applications of the Global Script. The results of the
diagnosis system are displayed.
GSC Runtime
The application window is supplied by applications of the Global Script. The analysis results
regarding characteristics in Runtime are displayed.

Window Contents = Print Jobs

All Jobs
The application window is supplied by the logging system. The available reports are
displayed as a list.
All Jobs Context Menu
The application window is supplied by the logging system. The available reports are
displayed as a list. The shortcut menu enables the selection of print options, display of a
print preview as well as a printout of the log.
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Job Detail View
The application window is supplied by the logging system. The available reports are
displayed in a selection menu. Detailed information is displayed for the selected report.
Selected Jobs Context Menu
The application window is supplied by the logging system. The available reports are
displayed as a list. This list only contains reports which you have activated the option "Mark
for print job list" in the "Print Job Properties" dialog. The shortcut menu enables the selection
of print options, display of a print preview as well as a printout of the log.

Window display in Runtime

The application window is displayed in Runtime as a separate window within a process picture.
The characteristics of the window display can be configured with attributes of the
"Miscellaneous" property group.

See also
How to configure the display of windows (Page468)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

How to insert a picture window

Introduction
The picture window offers the option of displaying other pictures that were created with the
Graphics Designer in the current picture. For example, you can continuously update the

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contents of a picture window with dynamics. The size and properties that a picture window has
in runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Inserting a picture window

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a picture window.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Picture Window".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a picture
window.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the picture window to the desired size with the mouse.
The insertion process is finished as soon as you release the mouse button.
Alternatively, you can double-click the "Picture window" object in the object palette. A
picture window with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
Note
If you hold down the <Shift> key during insertion, the "Picture Window" object is created
in the shape of a square.

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5. Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object
in the picture.
6. Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Configuring the picture window

Double click to open the "Object properties" dialog, in which you define the picture to be
displayed and the other attributes of the picture window.

Picture Name
Double-click on the "Picture name" attribute and select a picture of the "*.pdl" picture file that
you want to display in the picture window.

Open integrated picture

Use <Ctrl> and double click to immediately open the process picture integrated in the picture
window.

Specify picture zoom area

You can use the "Scaling factor" attribute to set the zoom factor for the display of the picture
in the picture window.
You can display the integrated process picture in the picture window a zoom area (cut-out) as
well. The origin of this zoom area is determined by the "Picture Offset X" and "Picture Offset
Y" attributes.
You use the picture offset to define the fixed point for the scaling of the picture as well.

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Independent picture window

WinCC supports many pictures windows and on several monitors. This requires attributes
"Independent picture window", "Window mode" and "Monitor number". More information on
this can be found under "How to support multiple picture windows".

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See also
How to support multiple picture windows (Page61)
Selecting pictures (Page610)
How to configure the display of windows (Page468)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

How to insert a control

Introduction
The "Control" object offers the option of integrating system process control and monitoring
elements into a picture. Controls are prefinished objects such as for example alarm windows,
measurement value windows, selection dialogs or buttons. ActiveX Controls, WinCC Controls
and controls from other manufacturers are available if they are registered in the operating
system. These are changed as required and dynamically integrated into the process. The size
and properties which a control accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.
For the detailed description of the controls and their configuration dialogs see "Working with
Controls".

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Prerequisites
The display of the object palette is activated.
The use of the configuration dialogs is activated under "Tools > Settings..." on the "Options"
tab.

Procedure
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a control.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Control".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the control to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "Insert a Control" dialog is opened.
The description of this dialog is to be found in the chapter "Working with controls".
5. Select one of the controls registered in the operating system and confirm your entry with
"OK".
With some controls, the corresponding configuration dialog will open.
The detailed description of the controls and their configuration dialogs can be found in the
chapter "Working with Controls".
6. Adapt the settings of the configuration dialog according to your needs and confirm the entry
with "OK".
The insertion process for the object "Control" is finished.
Alternatively you can select the desired control directly in the "Control" tab of the Object Palette.
Step five of the procedure described above is not used here.
If you hold down the <Shift> key when drawing the picture window, the "Control" object is
created in the shape of a square.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)
Working with Controls (Page319)

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OLE object
How to Insert an OLE Object
Introduction
The OLE object enables files created in other programs to be inserted into a picture. Therefore
all OLE object registered in the operating system can be integrated. The size and properties
which an OLE object accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer. No changes
can be made to OLE objects in Runtime.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The desired file type must be registered in the operating system.

Inserting Ole object

1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an OLE object and click the smart object
"OLE object" in the Object Palette.
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the OLE
object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.

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3. Drag the OLE object to the desired size.
The "Insert Object" dialog is opened.
4. Select the option "Create from file" or "Create new".
These two options are described in detail in the chapter "OLE object".

Create from file

With the option "Create from file", an already existing file is chosen for display in the selected
OLE object. The selected file is edited in the OLE object with the program that is registered
for editing the selected file type in the operating system.

Create new
The "Create new" option selects a file type for a new file that is created in the selected OLE
object. The selected file is edited in the OLE object with the program that is registered for
editing the selected file type in the operating system.
Note
To prevent problems in Runtime, a video object of the AVI format is inserted as a control
object and not as an OLE object.

Changing OLE object

Select an object of the OLE object type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Editing embedded file in the OLE object

1. Double-click the OLE object to edit the embedded file in the OLE object.
The program registered in the Windows operating system for editing the associated file
type opens in the Graphics Designer.
2. Execute the desired changes.
See the help system of the program for information on the editing procedures.
3. Finish editing the embedded file by deselecting the OLE object.

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Note
An OLE object that you want to edit in a picture must be in the original path. If this is not the
case, double-clicking on the OLE object may affect the operation of the Graphics Designer.

After processing an OLE object, it can occur that the toolbars of the Graphics Designer are
no longer displayed. You can prevent this error after processing an OLE object if you first
close the server application (for example Excel or Paint) before exiting the Graphic Designer.
To restore the display of toolbars, proceed as follows:
1. Select all of the objects available in the active picture.
2. Open the "View" menu and select the "Toolbars..." option.
3. In the "Toolbars" dialog, click the "Restore" button.

See also
How to insert an OLE object with the "Create from file" option (Page524)
How to insert an OLE object with the "Create new" option (Page526)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

How to insert an OLE object with the "Create from file" option
Introduction
The OLE object enables files created in other programs to be inserted into a picture.
With the option "Create from file", an already existing file is chosen for display in the selected
OLE object. The selected file is edited in the OLE object with the program that is registered
for editing the selected file type in the operating system.

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Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The desired file type must be registered in the operating system.

Procedure
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an OLE object and click the smart object
"OLE object" in the Object Palette.
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the OLE
object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the OLE object to the desired size.
The "Insert Object" dialog is opened.
4. Select option Create from File.
In the Create from File dialog are an input field, the "Browse..." button and the "Link" check
box.
5. Enter the directory path and the name of the desired file into the input field. Or click the
"Browse..." button to select the desired file with the "Browse" dialog.
6. Mark the "Link" check box if the selected file should not be copied to the OLE object, but
rather should only be used as a reference.
7. Mark the "As icon" check box if only an icon for the associated file type should be displayed
and not the contents of the selected file.
8. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "OLE" object is finished.

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See also
How to Insert an OLE Object (Page522)
How to insert an OLE object with the "Create new" option (Page526)

How to insert an OLE object with the "Create new" option

Introduction
The OLE object enables files created in other programs to be inserted into a picture.
The "Create new" option selects a file type for a new file that is created in the selected OLE
object in the "Insert object" dialog. The selected file is edited in the OLE object with the program
that is registered for editing the selected file type in the operating system.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The desired file type must be registered in the operating system.

Procedure
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an OLE object and click the smart object
"OLE object" in the Object Palette.
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the OLE
object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the OLE object to the desired size.
The "Insert Object" dialog is opened.

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4. Select the option Create New.
The Insert Object dialog, a list of all file types registered in the Windows operating system
is displayed.
5. Select the object type for the file that you want to create in the selected OLE object.
6. Mark the "As icon" check box if only an icon for the associated file type should be displayed
and not the contents of the selected file.
7. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "OLE" object is finished.
8. Double-click the OLE object to edit the embedded file in the OLE object.
The program registered in the Windows operating system for editing the associated file
type opens in the Graphics Designer.
9. Finish editing the embedded file by deselecting the OLE object.
The changes are accepted.

See also
How to Insert an OLE Object (Page522)
How to insert an OLE object with the "Create from file" option (Page524)

I/O Field
How to insert an I/O field
Introduction
The I/O Field can be defined as an input field, an output field or a combined input/output field.
The following data formats are available: Binary, decimal, string and hexadecimal. Limit values

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such as "Hidden Input" or "Accept on complete input" can also be specified. The size and
properties which an I/O Field accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The use of configuration dialogs must be enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools /
Settings..." menu.

Inserting an I/O Field

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert an I/O Field.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "I/O Field".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the I/O
field.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the I/O field to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "I/O Field Configuration" dialog is opened.

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5. Enter the desired values into the fields of the configuration dialog.
You will find the description of the configuration dialog in the next section.
6. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "I/O field" is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "I/O Field" in the object palette. An I/O Field
with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The "I/O Field
Configuration" dialog opens. As soon as you have confirmed your entries with "OK", the
insertion process is completed.
If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the insertion, the object "I/O field" will assume the
shape of a square.

Changing I/O Field

Select an object of the I/O Field type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object or to change the
appearance of the text.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

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See also
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)
How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field (Page531)
How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type (Page533)
How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type (Page535)
How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type (Page536)
How to define the output format for the "String" data type (Page537)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

How to configure an I/O Field

Introduction
The "I/O-Field Configuration" dialog opens after the insertion process if the use of configuration
dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..." menu. It enables fast
configuration of the important features of the I/O Field.
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's pop-up menu. Specific attributes
can be changed in the "Object Properties" window.

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Tag
The I/O Field can be set dynamically by embedding tags. Regardless of the selected field type,
the value of these tags can be displayed as output or changed by entering data.
, to open the dialog "Tags - project: ..." to
Enter the name of the desired tag or click the
select a tag. See the "Select Tag" section for the detailed description.

Updating
The frequency of updating the display can be configured for the value displayed as
output.
Enter the desired interval or select an interval from the dropdown list. See the "Changing
update cycle" section for the detailed description.

Field type
The I/O Field can be defined as an input field, an output field or a combined input/output
field.
Define the desired field type.

Font
The font for displaying input and output values can be changed regardless of the selected field
type.
Click one of the three possible buttons to open the associated dialogs.

See also
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)
How to define the output format for the "String" data type (Page537)
How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type (Page536)
How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type (Page535)
How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type (Page533)
How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field (Page531)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)
Selecting a tag (Page608)

How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field
Introduction
A value range can be defined for input and output of an I/O Field using limit values. Values
outside this value range cannot be displayed or input. Additional settings that offer protection
against accepting incorrect values can be made for value input.

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Specifying field type

The I/O Field can be defined as an input field, an output field or a combined input/output
field.
Specify the desired field type with the "Field type" attribute in the "Output / Input" property
group.

Setting Limit Values

The "High Limit Value" attribute defines the maximum limit value for input and output. The
specified value depends on the "data format" of the I/O field. The "Low Limit Value" attribute
defines the minimum limit value for input and output. The specified value depends on the "data
format" of the I/O field.
If a value is lower than the low limit value or higher than the high limit value, the following
effects may occur in Runtime:
Field type = "Input"
The "WinCC Runtime" dialog is opened and displayed the error message "The entered
value is outside the configured limits".
Confirm this error message with "OK" and enter another value.
Field type = "Output"
The display of the value is substituted by the character string "***".
The "Data Format" and "Field Type" attributes can be changed in the "Output / Input" property
group. A limit value cannot be specified for the "String" format.

Input value into an I/O Field

1. Double-click the I/O field.
The input mode opens. A placeholder is displayed for every character corresponding to the
specified output format.
If a value has already been input, it is highlighted.
2. Enter a new value.
3. Depending on the setting of the attributes of the I/O Field, the value is accepted on
completion of input or the input must be finished by pressing <Enter> .

Specifying type of value input

Immediate Input
The "Immediate Input" attribute specifies for input fields whether or not a direct change is made
into the input mode on jumping to the object.

Clear on New Input

The "Clear on New Input" attribute specifies whether the field contents are cleared when
selecting the input field.

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Clear on Invalid Input

The "Clear on Invalid Input" attribute can be used to prevent adoption of an incorrect input
value when the field is left. For example, an input value that does not correspond to the
predefined data format of the input field is incorrect.

Apply on Full
The "Apply on Full" attribute specifies when an input value is applied. If the attribute has the
value "No", the input value is only applied when the input is confirmed with <Enter> . Otherwise
the input value is automatically applied as soon as the preset number of characters has been
entered.

Apply on Exit
The "Apply on Exit" attribute can also be enabled for a value input in the event that the I/O
Field is exited without prior confirmation or reaching the required number of characters.

Hidden Input
The "Hidden Input" attribute specifies whether the input value is displayed during input as
normal or encrypted. If this attribute has the value "Yes", every character input is replaced with
the "*" character. The value entered and the data format of the value cannot be recognized.

Continue to shoe input value after <Enter>

After confirming the entry with <Enter>, the entered value is deleted. If you configure a direct
connection between the "Input value" attribute and the "Output value" attribute, the input value
continues to be shown after confirming with <Enter>.

See also
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)
How to define the output format for the "String" data type (Page537)
How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type (Page536)
How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type (Page535)
How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type (Page533)
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)

How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type
Introduction
Four different data formats are available for the input and output of values in an I/O field.
Numerical values can be edited in binary, decimal or hexadecimal format. The "String" data
format must be specified for the I/O Field to display text.

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Based on the specified data format different output formats can be selected or freely defined
for displaying the field contents.
The definition for an output format can be rewritten as a sequence of formatting codes. The
formatting codes act as placeholders for a specific group of characters. For example, if a
formatting code for which only the display of the numbers 0-9 is preset for a specific position
in the display of an I/O Field, only letters can be input at this position.
NOTICE
If the value you want to display does not correspond exactly to the definition of the output
format, only three asterisks are displayed. This applies for the length of the entire character
string and also for the type and position of the individual characters.

Formatting codes - "binary" data type

1
0

Placeholder for the binary values 0 and 1. The number of the formatting code "1"
specifies the permissible number of positions for displaying a binary value.
If necessary a leading zero is placed before the binary value. The output format can
therefore begin with the formatting code "0", but can only have this once.

Example - "binary" data type

The 8-digit binary value 10011101 can be displayed as follows:
Output format

Allowed number of positions

Display

11

01

011

2 + leading zero

001

1111

1101

01111

4 + leading zero

01101

1111111

0011101

01111111

7 + leading zero

00011101

1111111111

10

10011101

01111111111

10 + leading zero

010011101

See also
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)
How to define the output format for the "String" data type (Page537)
How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type (Page536)
How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type (Page535)
How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field (Page531)
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)

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How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type
Introduction
Four different data formats are available for the input and output of values in an I/O field.
Numerical values can be edited in binary, decimal or hexadecimal format. The "String" data
format must be specified for the I/O Field to display text.
Based on the specified data format different output formats can be selected or freely defined
for displaying the field contents.
The definition for an output format can be rewritten as a sequence of formatting codes. The
formatting codes act as placeholders for a specific group of characters. For example, if a
formatting code for which only the display of the numbers 0-9 is preset for a specific position
in the display of an I/O Field, only letters can be input at this position.
NOTICE
If the value you want to display does not correspond exactly to the definition of the output
format, only three asterisks are displayed. This applies for the length of the entire character
string and also for the type and position of the individual characters.

Formatting codes - "decimal" data type

9

,
s
0

Placeholder for the binary values 0 and 9. The number of the formatting code "9"
specifies the permissible number of positions for displaying a decimal value. If the actual
number of decimal places exceeds the number specified in the display format, the
displayed value is rounded out.
A comma defines the position for decimal point. The formatting code "," can be at any
position in the output format, but can only be used once.
Positive decimal numbers are displayed with signs. The formatting code "s" must be at
the first position of the output format and must be used only once.
Leading and following zeroes are displayed when the actual number of position before
and after the decimal point is less that the number set in the display format. The
formatting code "0" must be before the first "9" and must be used only once.
The decimal number is displayed in exponential format. The formatting code "e" must
be at the last position of the output format and must be used only once.

Example - "Decimal" data type

The 6-digit decimal number 123.456 can be displayed as follows:
Output format

Allowed number of positions

Display

999

124

999,9

123,5

s999.9

4 + sign

+123,5

999,999

123,456

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Output format

Allowed number of positions

Display

09999,9999

8 + zeroes

0123,4560

s09999.9999

8 + sign + zeroes

+0123,4560

1111111111

10

10011101

9.99999e

1.23456e+002

Note
If a floating point number is saved in the IEEE format of the S5, an output format that allows
the sign and exponent should be used for display in an I/O Field (e.g. s0999.999e).

See also
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)
How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field (Page531)
How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type (Page533)
How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type (Page536)
How to define the output format for the "String" data type (Page537)
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)

How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type
Introduction
Four different data formats are available for the input and output of values in an I/O field.
Numerical values can be edited in binary, decimal or hexadecimal format. The "String" data
format must be specified for the I/O Field to display text.
Based on the specified data format different output formats can be selected or freely defined
for displaying the field contents.
The definition for an output format can be rewritten as a sequence of formatting codes. The
formatting codes act as placeholders for a specific group of characters. For example, if a
formatting code for which only the display of the numbers 0-9 is preset for a specific position
in the display of an I/O Field, only letters can be input at this position.
NOTICE
If the value you want to display does not correspond exactly to the definition of the output
format, only three asterisks are displayed. This applies for the length of the entire character
string and also for the type and position of the individual characters.

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Formatting codes - "Hexadecimal" data type

f

Placeholder for the letters A-F and a-f and the digits 0-9, which are used to display
hexadecimal numbers. The allowed number of characters is defined by the number of
the formatting code "f" in the output format.
Leading zeros of the hexadecimal value are displayed if the output format begins with
the formatting code "0". The formatting code "0" must be included only once.

See also
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)
How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field (Page531)
How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type (Page533)
How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type (Page535)
How to define the output format for the "String" data type (Page537)
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)

How to define the output format for the "String" data type
Introduction
Four different data formats are available for the input and output of values in an I/O field.
Numerical values can be edited in binary, decimal or hexadecimal format. The "String" data
format must be specified for the I/O Field to display text.
Based on the specified data format different output formats can be selected or freely defined
for displaying the field contents.
The definition for an output format can be rewritten as a sequence of formatting codes. The
formatting codes act as placeholders for a specific group of characters. For example, if a
formatting code for which only the display of the numbers 0-9 is preset for a specific position
in the display of an I/O Field, only letters can be input at this position.
NOTICE
If the value you want to display does not correspond exactly to the definition of the output
format, only three asterisks are displayed. This applies for the length of the entire character
string and also for the type and position of the individual characters.

Formatting codes - "String" data type

The allowed length of a character string is defined by the number of formatting codes used
(exception "*").
*
?

Input of a character string of any length

Input of any character string

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a
A
b
B
1-9

Lower-case letters, upper-case letters and digits are allowed

no separators or similar.
Upper-case letters and digits are allowed
no lower case letters, separators or similar.
Lower-case letters and upper-case letters are allowed
no digits, separators or similar.
Only upper-case letters are allowed
no lower case letters, digits, separators or similar.
The formatting codes "1", "2", ..., "9" are used as placeholders for digits.
The selected formatting code also defines the actual digits allowed: For example,
if the "2" is specified, only the digits 0, 1 or 2 can be displayed. The formatting code
"8" allows all digits except for the 9.
Only the digits 0-9 and the letters A-F or a-f are allowed.
The formatting code "h" allows only characters that are required to display
hexadecimal numbers.
The formatting code "t" forces input of a separator at the specified position. These
separators are valid: Slash, colon, comma, period and space.

See also
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)
How to change limit values and type of value input of an I/O field (Page531)
How to define the output format for the "Binary" data type (Page533)
How to define the output format for the "Decimal" data type (Page535)
How to define the output format for the "Hexadecimal" data type (Page536)
How to insert an I/O field (Page527)

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Bar
How to insert a bar
Introduction
The "Bar" object offers the option of displaying values graphically. The values can also be
displayed in a combined view as graphics with freely definable number scale. The size and
properties which a bar accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The use of configuration dialogs must be enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools /
Settings..." menu.

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Inserting bar
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a bar.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Bar".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
bar.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the bar to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "Bar Configuration" dialog is opened.
5. Enter the desired values into the fields of the configuration dialog.
You will find the description of the configuration dialog in the next section.
6. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "Bar" object is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "Bar" in the object palette. A bar with default
object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The "Bar Configuration" dialog opens.
As soon as you have confirmed your entries with "OK", the insertion process is
completed.
If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the insertion, the object "Bar" will assume the
shape of a square.

Changing bar
Select an object of the bar type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object or to change the
appearance of the text.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

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See also
How to configure a bar (Page541)
How to configure the limits of a bar (Page542)
How to configure the bar scale (Page544)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

How to configure a bar

Introduction
The "Bar Configuration" dialog opens after the insertion process if the use of configuration
dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..." menu. It enables fast
configuration of the important features of the bar.
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's pop-up menu. Specific attributes
can be changed in the "Object Properties" window.

Tag
The display value of the bar can be dynamically changed by embedding a tag.

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Enter the name of the desired tag or click the
, to open the dialog "Tags - project: ..." to
select a tag. See the "Select Tag" section for the detailed description.

Updating
The frequency of updating the display can be configured for the value displayed by the
bar.
Enter the desired interval or select an interval from the dropdown list. See the "Changing
update cycle" section for the detailed description.

Limits
The two ends of the bar view are specified by the maximum value and the minimum value of
the bar.
Enter the desired limits for the bar display. See the "Change maximum value" and "Change
minimum value" for the detailed description.

Bar direction
Specify the direction of the coordinate axis to which the maximum value of bar points.
See the "Changing bar direction of the bar" section for the detailed description.

See also
Selecting a tag (Page608)
How to configure the limits of a bar (Page542)
How to configure the bar scale (Page544)
How to insert a bar (Page539)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)

How to configure the limits of a bar

Introduction
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:

542

Name

Upper limit (High)

Lower limit (Low)

Alarm limit A
Warning limit W
Tolerance limit T
Reserve 4 R4
Reserve 5 R5

AH Alarm High
WH Warning High
TH Tolerance High
RH4 Reserve High 4
RH5 Reserve High 5

AL Alarm Low
WL Warning Low
TL Tolerance Low
RL4 Reserve Low 4
RL5 Reserve Low 5

General: Limit X

XH High Limit Value of limit X

XL Low Limit Value of limit X

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Upper limit, Lower limit, type

The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.

Bar color, Change Color

The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.

Monitoring, Limit Marker

The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.

Trend
The "Trend" attribute specifies whether or not the trend is displayed.
The trend display enables a fast overview of changes for the bar. If the value displayed in the
scale is exceeded, a small arrow is displayed beside the scale by default. The arrow indicates
that the measured value cannot be displayed on the scale. Another scale can be shown on
the other side of the bar to avoid having to wait for the next update. This arrow shows the trend
of the current movement of the bar.

Hysteresis, Hysteresis Range

So that a color change is not triggered immediately in the case of a slight limit violation, the
"Hysteresis" and "Hysteresis Range" attributes can be used to define a distribution range for
the display of the value.
The "Hysteresis" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the display with hysteresis is
permitted or not.
The "Hysteresis Range" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the hysteresis as a percentage
of the display range.

See also
How to configure a bar (Page541)
How to configure the bar scale (Page544)
How to insert a bar (Page539)

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How to configure the bar scale

Introduction
The "Bar" object can be labeled by showing a scale. The layout and graduation of the scale
and the size and format of the label can be configured by changing the relevant attributes as
required.

Setting scale end values and zero point value

The attribute "Maximum value" defines the absolute value for the display of the highest
value.
The attribute "Minimum value" defines the absolute value for the display of the smallest
value.
The attribute "Zero point value" defines the absolute value for the zero value of the bar.

Setting layout of the scale

The "Scale" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the bar is labeled with a
scale.
The "Bar Direction" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the direction of the coordinate axis,
which the highest display value of the bar points to.

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The "Alignment" attribute defines the arrangement of the scale relative to the bar for the
"Bar" object. Depending on the setting for the "Bar Direction" attribute in the "Geometry"
property group, the scale can be displayed to the left or right or above or below the bar.

Defining bar segments

The "Scale Marks" attribute specifies the number of segments into which the bar is divided by
the large tick marks of the scale.
The "Axis Section" attribute defines the distance between the large tick marks. The value is
shown as the difference in value between two adjacent large tick marks.

Setting scale division

The "Zero Point" attribute specifies for the representation of the bar in which position the zero
point value is displayed. The value is specified relative to the spacing of the scale end values
in %. For a value of 0 %, for example, the zero point value is shown at the height of the large
tick mark with the lowest value. The zero point can also be outside of the range
represented.
The "Zero Point" attribute is only evaluated if the "Bar Scaling" attribute has the value
"Automatic". The absolute value for the zero point is set with the "Zero Point Value" attribute
in the "Miscellaneous" property group.
The "Bar Scaling" attribute specifies the type of scale division. By selecting suitable scale
divisions, it is possible to emphasize a particular range of values in the bar display.

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Setting format of tick marks

The "Large Tick Marks Length" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the sections
between the large tick marks in the scale of the bar are divided by shorter tick marks.
The "Large Tick Marks" attribute specifies whether the large tick marks of the scale are shown
in bold or normal.
The "Length of Large Tick Marks" attribute specifies the length of the large tick marks. The
length of the shorter tick marks corresponds to half of the value specified here. The values are
specified in pixels.

Setting format of label

The "Label Each" attribute specifies the number of labeled large tick marks. If, for example,
the attribute has the value "3", only every third large tick mark is labeled, starting with the large
tick mark with the lowest value.
The "Exponent Display" attribute shows whether the numerical values of the scale are shown
as exponents or as decimal values without exponents.
The "Decimal Places" attribute specifies the number of digits before the decimal point for the
display of numerical values in the scale.
The "Decimal Places" attribute specifies the number of digits to the right of the decimal point
for the numerical value display in the scale.

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See also
How to configure a bar (Page541)
How to configure the limits of a bar (Page542)
How to insert a bar (Page539)

How to insert a graphic object

Introduction
The graphic object enables graphics created in other programs to be inserted into a picture.
You can insert graphics or images with the following formats:
EMF, WMF, DIB, BMP (to 32 Bit), GIF, JPEG, ICO and PNG.
The size and properties that a graphic object has in runtime are defined in the Graphics
Designer.

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Prerequisites
The display of the object palette is activated.
The use of the configuration dialogs is activated under "Tools > Settings..." on the "Options"
tab.

Inserting Graphic Object

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a graphic object.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Graphic Object".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a graphic
object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the graphic object to the required size.
The "Graphic Object Configuration" dialog opens.
5. Select the picture that you want to display in the graphic object.
The description of the configuration dialog can be found in the next section.
6. Click "OK" to confirm your input.
The insertion process for the "Graphic Object" is finished.
Alternatively, you can double-click the smart object "Graphic Object" in the object palette. A
graphic object with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The
"Graphic Object Configuration" dialog opens. The insertion process is finished when you
confirm your inputs with "OK".
If you hold down the <Shift> key during insertion, the "Graphic object" object is created in the
shape of a square.

Configuring a graphic object

The "Graphic object configuration" dialog opens after the insertion process if the use of
configuration dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab under "Tools > Settings...". It enables fast
configuration of the important features of the graphic object.
You can open the configuration dialog with the pop-up menu for the object. You can change
the individual attributes in the "Object properties" window.

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Preview
The picture selected in the picture selection is displayed as a preview.

Selection of Picture
The picture selection shows all pictures in the EMF, WMF, DIB, BMP, GIF, JPEG, ICO and
PNG formats that are in the graphics directory "GraCS" of the current WinCC project.
Select the picture that you want to display in the graphic object. Click on the "Browse ..." button
to insert additional pictures from the picture selection.
See the "Select pictures" section for the detailed description.

Changing Graphic Object

Select an object of the graphic object type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the "Rotate" element of the standard toolbar to rotate the object.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

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Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.
Note
If the "Picture Transparent Color On" attribute has the value "Yes" for a graphic object, the
available flash frequency is also reduced if necessary.

See also
Selecting pictures (Page610)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

Status display
How to insert a status display
Introduction
The status display offers the option to display almost any number of different states of an
object. The states are implemented via tags whose value corresponds to the respective state.

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The states are displayed via the assigned pictures. The size and properties which a status
display accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The use of configuration dialogs must be enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools /
Settings..." menu.

Inserting a status display

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a status display.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Status Display".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the status
display.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the status display to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "Status Display Configuration" dialog is opened.

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5. Enter the desired values into the fields of the configuration dialog.
You will find the description of the configuration dialog in the next section.
6. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "Status display" object is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "Status Display" in the object palette. A line
with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The "Status Display
Configuration" dialog opens. As soon as you have confirmed your entries with "OK", the
insertion process is completed.
If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the insertion, the object "Status display" will
assume the shape of a square.

Changing Status Display

Select an object of the Status Display type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the color palette to change the line color.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
How to configure a status display (Page553)
How to configure states (Page554)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Standard Objects (Page475)

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How to configure a status display

Introduction
The "Status Display Configuration" dialog opens after the insertion process if the use of
configuration dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..." menu. The
"Status Display Configuration" dialog enables fast configuration of the important features of
the status display.
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's pop-up menu. Specific attributes
can be changed in the "Object Properties" window.

Tag
The value of the status you want to display can be set dynamically by embedding a tag.
Enter the name of the desired tag or click the
, to open the dialog "Tags - project: ..." to
select a tag. See the "Select Tag" section for the detailed description.

Updating
The frequency of updating the display can be configured for the status display.
Enter the desired interval or select an interval from the dropdown list. See the "Changing
update cycle" section for the detailed description.

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Status list
The status list shows the linked pictures and the specified flash frequency for all configured
states.
States can be inserted and every setting can be changed with a pop-up menu. Pictures of the
picture selection can be referenced by dragging them with the mouse to the required position
in the state list. See the "Configuring Status" section for the detailed description.

Bit Position
A status can also be assigned to a specific bit position of the tags.
Click the arrow keys to select a bit position. Click the field "Add" to enter the status of this bit
position in the status list. Click the button "Add" again to add the next highest bit
position.
See the "Configuring Status" section for the detailed description.

Preview
The picture selected in the picture selection is displayed as a preview.

Selection of Picture
The picture selection shows all pictures in the graphics directory "GraCS" of the current WinCC
project. Graphics and pictures of the following formats can be inserted:
BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
Use the mouse to drag a picture of the picture selection to the desired position in the status
list in order to assign it to a status as a basic picture or a flash picture. Click the "Browse ..."
button to insert additional pictures from the picture selection.
You will find the detailed description in the section "Select pictures".

See also
Selecting pictures (Page610)
Selecting a tag (Page608)
How to configure states (Page554)
How to insert a status display (Page550)

How to configure states

Introduction
The status display offers the option to display almost any number of different states of an
object. The states are implemented via tags whose value corresponds to the respective state.
In Runtime the states are displayed via the assigned pictures. If no picture that you want to
display is defined for a status, the symbol for the status display is shown as a
placeholder.

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If a status that has not been configured occurs in Runtime, the pictures of the prior status are
shown. The settings for the following status are shown if there was no prior status.
States can be configured in the status list of the "Status Display Configuration" dialog. The
configuration dialog is also be opened with the "Status Display" object's pop-up menu. The
status list shows the linked pictures and the specified flash frequency for all configured states.
States can be inserted and every setting can be changed with a pop-up menu. A state can
also be assigned to a certain bit position on the tag.

The status display is divided into four columns, the width of which can be changed by moving
the separation lines. Every line of the status list shows the settings for a specific state. Clicking
on the exact position of a setting opens the pop-up menu. The following settings can be
configured in the status list:
Status column
Shows the value of the configured status. States can be inserted or deleted. The command
"Clear List" of the pop-up menu removes all states to which no pictures are assigned.
Basic Picture column
Shows the name of the picture that is displayed in Runtime when the status happens. The
basic picture of a status can be deleted via the pop-up menu.
Flash Picture column
Shows the name of the picture that is displayed alternating with the basic picture, if a flash
frequency is set for the blinking attribute. The flash picture of a status can be deleted via
the pop-up menu.
Flashing attribute column
Displays the set flash frequency. The values "no flashing", "Slow", "Medium" and "Fast"
can be set via the pop-up menu.

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Inserting status
Select the position in the "State" column at which you wish to insert a status. Select the entry
"Add" in the pop-up menu. The status for the next free position is inserted.

Inserting status as bit position

Click the arrow key to select a bit position. Click the field "Add..." to enter the status of this bit
position in the status list. The value selected as bit position is increased by one position. Click
the "Add" button again to insert the next higher bit position.

Renaming status
Double-click the position in the state column at which you wish to rename a status. Enter the
new value and confirm this by pressing <ENTER>. If the new value is already assigned, no
change is made.

Deleting status
Select the position in the state column at which you wish to delete a status. Select the entry
"Delete" in the pop-up menu. The status is deleted so long as at least one additional status is
configured.

Clearing status list

Open the pop-up menu at any status in the state column and select the entry "Clear List". All
states to which no pictures are assigned are cleared.

Assigned pictures
Select the picture in the picture selection that you want to assign a status as basic picture or
flash picture. Drag the picture to the desired position with the mouse. An existing picture is
replaced by the new picture.

Delete pictures
Select the entry "Delete" in the pop-up menu of a configured picture to remove the picture from
the status list.

Changing flashing attribute

If a status is assigned only one basic picture, the associated flash automatically receives the
"no flashing" attribute. If a basic picture and flash picture are assigned to a status, you can
change the flash with the pop-up menu.

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See also
How to configure a status display (Page553)
How to insert a status display (Page550)

Text list
How to add a text list
Introduction
The text list offers the option of assigning specific values to a text. The text list can be defined
as an input list, an output list or as a combined input/output list. The following data formats are
available: Decimal, binary or bit. The size and properties which a text list has in Runtime are
defined in the Graphics Designer.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The use of configuration dialogs must be enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools /
Settings..." menu.

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Inserting Text List

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a text list.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Text List".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the text
list.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the text list to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "Text List Configuration" dialog is opened.
5. Enter the desired values into the fields of the configuration dialog.
You will find the description of the configuration dialog in the next section.
6. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "Text List" object is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "Text List" in the object palette. A text list
with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The "Text List
Configuration" dialog opens. As soon as you have confirmed your entries with "OK", the
insertion process is completed.
If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the insertion, the object "Text List" will assume
the shape of a square.
Note
If you assign a text to a value in the text list, the text must not include a semicolon.
The semicolon is a WinCC control character and will be automatically deleted in a text.

Changing text list

Select an object of the text list type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object or to change the
appearance of the text.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

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See also
How to configure a text list (Page559)
How to configure apply values and display text of a text list (Page560)
How to configure assignments for the "Decimal" type list (Page562)
How to configure assignments for the "Binary" list type (Page563)
How to configure assignments for the "Bit" list type (Page564)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

How to configure a text list

Introduction
The "Text List Configuration" dialog opens after the insertion process if the use of configuration
dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..." menu. It enables fast
configuration of the important features of the text list. The configuration dialog can also be
opened with the object's pop-up menu. Specific attributes can be changed in the "Object
Properties" window.

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Tag
The text list can made dynamic by embedding a tag. Regardless of the selected field type, the
value of these tags can be displayed as output or changed by entering data.
, to open the dialog "Tags - project: ..." to
Enter the name of the desired tag or click the
select a tag. See the "Select Tag" section for the detailed description.

Updating
The frequency of updating the display can be configured for the value displayed as
output.
Enter the desired interval or select an interval from the dropdown list. See the "Changing
update cycle" section for the detailed description.

Field type
The text list can be defined as an input list, an output list or as a combined input/output
list.
Define the desired field type.

Font
The font for displaying input and output values can be changed regardless of the selected field
type.
Click one of the three possible buttons to open the associated dialogs.

See also
Selecting a tag (Page608)
How to configure apply values and display text of a text list (Page560)
How to configure assignments for the "Decimal" type list (Page562)
How to configure assignments for the "Binary" list type (Page563)
How to configure assignments for the "Bit" list type (Page564)
How to add a text list (Page557)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)

How to configure apply values and display text of a text list

Introduction
Output value and apply values can be configured by changing the associated attributes for the
"Text List" object as required. In addition, assignments and reference for the display text can
be configured.

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Specifying field type

The fields of the text list can be defined as an input field, output field or combined input/output
field. Specify the desired field type with the "Field type" attribute in the "Output / Input" property
group.

Change output value

The "Output Value" attribute specifies a start value for the output which is displayed in Runtime
in the case of a missing process driver connection or if an update has not yet taken place.

Activating apply values on exit

The "Apply on Exit" attribute specifies whether the input is applied when you exit the text list
with <TAB> or by clicking the mouse.

Specifying text reference

The "Text Reference" attribute specifies where the language-dependent assignment texts are
stored. The texts can be managed directly in the object or in the text library where the
translation into other languages is made.

Configuring assignments
The "Assignments" attribute in the "Input/Output" property group allows display texts to be
specified. The display texts are displayed depending on the current "Output Value"
Note
If you assign a text to a value in the text list, the text must not include a semicolon.
The semicolon is a WinCC control character and will be automatically deleted in a text.

See also
How to configure a text list (Page559)
How to configure assignments for the "Decimal" type list (Page562)
How to configure assignments for the "Binary" list type (Page563)
How to configure assignments for the "Bit" list type (Page564)
How to add a text list (Page557)

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How to configure assignments for the "Decimal" type list

Introduction
The text list offers the option of assigning specific values to a text. The "Assignments" attribute
in the "Input/Output" property group allows display texts to be specified. The display texts are
displayed depending on the current "Output Value".
The "Decimal" list type allows specific values or value ranges to display texts.

Requirements
Select a text list of the "Decimal" list type.
Open the "TextList assignments (decimal)" dialog by double-clicking on the "Assignments"
attribute in the "Output/Input" property group.

Defining new assignments

1. Select a range type from the dropdown list field to specify the desired value range:
"Individual value" - A display text is assigned to an individual value.
"From Value" - A display text applies to all values greater than or equal to that specified
here.
"To Value" - A display text applies to all values lesser than or equal to that specified
here.
"From To Value" - A display text applies to all values of the value range specified here.
2. Enter the desired value or value range.
3. Enter the text that you want to display for this value or value range. The text must not include
a semicolon.
4. Click the "Append" button.
The new assignment is input into the assignments list.

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Sorting assignments
Select the assignments that you want to sort. Click the "Up" or "Down" button to move these
assignments to the assignments list.

Deleting assignments
Select the assignments that you want to delete in the assignments list and click the "Delete"
button.

See also
How to configure a text list (Page559)
How to configure apply values and display text of a text list (Page560)
How to configure assignments for the "Binary" list type (Page563)
How to configure assignments for the "Bit" list type (Page564)
How to add a text list (Page557)

How to configure assignments for the "Binary" list type

Introduction
The text list offers the option of assigning specific values to a text. The "Assignments" attribute
in the "Input/Output" property group allows display texts to be specified. The display texts are
displayed depending on the current "Output Value"
Display texts are assigned by bit number for the "Binary" list type. Up to 32 display texts can
be defined. If a bit set in the output value is not assigned a display text, three asterisks appear
in the drop-down list.

Requirements
Selecting a text list of the "Binary" list type.
Open the "TextList assignments (binary)" dialog by double-clicking on the "Assignments"
attribute in the "Output/Input" property group.

Defining new assignments

1. Enter the bit number that you want to assign to a display text.
2. Enter the desired display text. The text must not include a semicolon.
3. Click the "Append" button.
The new assignment is input into the assignments list.

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Sorting assignments
Select the assignments that you want to sort. Click the "Up" or "Down" button to move these
assignments to the assignments list.

Deleting assignments
Select the assignments that you want to delete in the assignments list and click the "Delete"
button.

See also
How to configure a text list (Page559)
How to configure apply values and display text of a text list (Page560)
How to configure assignments for the "Decimal" type list (Page562)
How to configure assignments for the "Bit" list type (Page564)
How to add a text list (Page557)

How to configure assignments for the "Bit" list type

Introduction
The text list offers the option of assigning specific values to a text. The "Assignments" attribute
in the "Input/Output" property group allows display texts to be specified. The display texts are
displayed depending on the current "Output Value"
With the "Bit" list type one display text each can be defined for the statuses "1 - Bit set" and
"0 - Bit not set" of the relevant bit in the output value. The "Bit Number" attribute specifies the
number of the relevant bit in the output value.

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Requirements
Selecting a text list of the "Bit" list type.
Open the "TextList assignments (bit)" dialog by double-clicking on the "Assignments"
attribute in the "Output/Input" property group.

Defining assignments

Enter the desired display text for the states 0 and 1 and confirm the assignments with "OK".
The display text must not include a semicolon.

See also
How to configure a text list (Page559)
How to configure apply values and display text of a text list (Page560)
How to configure assignments for the "Decimal" type list (Page562)
How to configure assignments for the "Binary" list type (Page563)
How to add a text list (Page557)

How to insert multiline text

Introduction
The "Multiline Text" object makes it possible to display multiple lines of text in a rectangle in
the picture. If the text is larger than the rectangle, WinCC automatically adds a scroll bar on
the right-hand edge.
If you enable operation, the operator can scroll and edit the text in Runtime. By connecting
variables, you can use the multilined text for entering or outputting text.
You define the size and properties of the "Multiline Text" object in the Graphics Designer.

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Insert multiline text

1. Open the picture into which you want to insert the object.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Multiline text".
3. Move the cursor to the screen position where you want to insert the "Multiline Text" object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the rectangle to the desired size with the mouse.
The insertion process is finished as soon as you release the mouse button.
As an alternative, double click in the Object palette on the smart object "Multiline
text".
The object with the default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
5. Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object
in the picture.
6. Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.
7. In order to change the background color, use the color palette.
8. Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Edit multiline text

Select the "Properties" menu point in the shortcut menu of the object and define the attributes
of the "Multiline Text" object in the "Object properties" window.

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"Font" property group

You define the text and the respective display with the attributes under "Font". Enter the text
in the "Dialog" window.

"Miscellaneous" property group

If the attribute "Operator-Control Enable" is set to "Yes" and the operator has the access
authorization, the operator can scroll the window and edit text in runtime.

Dynamization
If you connect tags to the "Text" attribute, you can use the "Multiline Text" object for entering
and outputting text.

How to insert a combobox

Introduction
The combobox makes it possible to select one of many possible text records from a drop-down
list for displaying and inserting in runtime. The text can be defined with tags.
The size and properties which a combobox takes on in runtime are defined in the Graphics
Designer.

Insert combobox
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an combobox.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "Combobox".

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3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a combobox.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Press the mouse button and drag the combobox to the required size.
The insertion process is finished as soon as you release the mouse button.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "Combobox" in the object palette. A
combobox with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
5. Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object
in the picture.
6. Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.
7. In order to change the background color, use the color palette.
8. Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.
Note
The color that backs the respectively selected field in runtime is defined in the operating
system as the color for the "Selected elements" and cannot be changed in WinCC.

Edit combobox
Select the "Properties" menu point in the context menu (pop-up menu) of the object and define
the attributes of the combobox in the "Object properties" window.

"Geometry" property group

Use the "Number of rows" attribute to define the amount of lines shown in the combobox.

"Font" property group

You define the text and the respective display with the attributes under "Font". Enter the
respective text for each index from 1 to "Number of rows".

"Miscellaneous" property group

The "Selected text" attribute defines the index, the text of which is displayed in the combobox
in runtime.

If the attribute "Operator-Control Enable" is set to "Yes" and the operator has the access
authorization, the operator can drop the combobox down and select another text in runtime.

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Dynamics
If you connect the respective tags, you can use the combobox:
For the entry of a predefined text or the respective index.
For the output of one or many predefined text records.
With other tags, you can predefine the text records dynamically yourself.

How to insert a list box

Introduction
The list box make it possible to highlight one of many text records or select it for entry in runtime.
If the list is longer than the list box is high, the list box is provided with two scroll arrows on the
right for scrolling upwards and downwards.
The size and properties that a list box has in runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.

Insert list box

1. Open the picture into which you want to insert an list box.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "List box".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a list box.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the list box to the desired size.
The insertion process is finished as soon as you release the mouse button.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "List box" in the object palette. A list box
with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

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5. Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object
in the picture.
6. Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.
7. In order to change the background color, use the color palette.
8. Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Edit list box

Select the "Properties" menu point in the shortcut menu of the object and define the attributes
of the list box in the "Object properties" window.

"Geometry" property group

Use the "Number of rows" attribute to define the amount of entries that the list box has. The
number of displayed entries is defined by the height of the list box.

Make sure that the list box is wide enough for displaying the text. Horizontal scrolling is not
possible. Text that is too long will be cut off.

"Font" property group

You define the text and the respective display with the attributes under "Font". Enter the
respective text for each index from 1 to "Number of rows".

"Miscellaneous" property group

The "Selected box" attribute defines the index, the text of which is highlighted in the list box
when runtime is started.

If the attribute "Operator-Control Enable" is set to "Yes" and the operator has the access
authorization, the operator can select another text and highlight it in the list box in runtime.

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Note
The color that backs the respectively selected field in runtime is defined in the operating
system as the color for the "Selected elements" and cannot be changed in WinCC.

Dynamization
If you connect tags to the respective attributes, you can use the list box for the following:
For entering a predefined text record or the respective index
For outputting one of the predefined text records
You can also make the predefined text records dynamic with the respective text tags.

How to insert a Faceplate instance

Introduction
You can insert a Faceplate instance into your picture with the Faceplate object. Faceplate
types must first exist in your project.
Faceplates are preconfigured combinations of objects. You save such a combination as a
Faceplate type and can use them again and again as Faceplate instances afterwards.
The size and properties that a Faceplate instance takes on in runtime are defined in the
Graphics Designer.

Insert Faceplate instance

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a Faceplate instance.
2. In the Object palette, click the smart object "Faceplate instance".
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Click with the mouse on the point in the picture that you would like to insert the Faceplate
instance.
The file selection dialog opens.
4. Select the desired FPT file.
5. Drag the Faceplate instance to the desired size with the mouse.
Alternatively, you can double-click the smart object "Faceplate instance" in the object
palette and select the Faceplate type. A Faceplate instance with default object properties
is then inserted near the picture origin.

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Change Faceplate instance

Select the "Properties" menu point in the context menu (pop-up menu) of the Faceplate
instance and edit the attributes of the Faceplate instance in the "Object properties" window.
The properties that you can change here depend on how the properties of the Faceplate type
are defined. Every Faceplate type has two types of attributes:
Type-specific attributes: These attributes can only be changed in the Faceplate type. After
changes in the Faceplate type, the changes are effective in the Faceplate instance by
reloading the picture.
Instance-specific attributes: These attributes are predefined in the Faceplate type and can
be changed in the Faceplate instance. A change in the Faceplate type has no effects on
already inserted Faceplate instances.
Other information on Faceplate types are found in chapter "Working with Faceplate types".

See also
Working with Faceplate Types (Page299)

How to insert a .NET control

Introduction
The .NET framework by Microsoft is also installed with WinCC. This makes it possible to
integrate .NET applications (Assemblies) as controls in your pictures.
When inserting the Smart object ".NET control" select the desired control in the "Insert control"
dialog. Here, all controls that are available on your system are displayed.
NOTICE
Possible problems when using third-party controls
The user of the software is responsible for problems caused by the deployment of external
controls.
We recommend testing for safe operation before implementation.
At the end of the insertion process normally a configuration dialog is opened, which the
properties of the control are adapted to. You can call up this dialog later by double clicking on
the control.
WinCC uses the designation of the control linked with a sequential number as the object name
as default. You can change these names with the "Object name" attribute in the "Object
properties" window.

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Procedure
1. In the Object Palette, click the smart object ".NET control".
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
2. Click on the position in the picture where you want to insert the control.
The "Insert control" dialog is opened with the controls from the "Global assembly cache".

3. Select the required control and confirm with "OK".

4. Choose the desired type in the "Select type" dialog.
The associated configuration dialog now opens for some controls.
5. Adapt the settings of the configuration dialog as needed. Confirm your entries with "OK."
The insertion process for the ".NET control" object is finished.
As an alternative, double click in the object palette on the Smart Object ".NET control", in order
to insert it with the default properties into the process picture. Select the desired control in the
"Insert control" and "Insert type" dialogs.

Edit .NET Control

You open the "Object properties" dialog in the context menu of the .NET control with
"Properties". You can define the specific attributes of the selected controls in the "Control
properties" properties group.

How to insert a WPF control

Introduction
The Windows Presentation Framework 3.0 (WPF) by Microsoft is also installed with WinCC.
This makes it possible to integrate WPF files as controls in your pictures.
When inserting the Smart object "WPF control", select the desired control. Here, all controls
that are available on your system are displayed.

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NOTICE
Possible problems when using third-party controls
The user of the software is responsible for problems caused by the deployment of external
controls.
We recommend testing for safe operation before implementation.
At the end of the insertion process normally a configuration dialog is opened, which the
properties of the control are adapted to. You can call up this dialog later by double clicking on
the control.
WinCC uses the designation of the control linked with a sequential number as the object name
as default. You can change these names with the "Object name" attribute in the "Object
properties" window.

Procedure
1. In the object palette, click the smart object "WPF control".
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
2. Click on the position in the picture where you want to insert the control.
The "Insert control" dialog is opened with the "PresentationFramework 3.0" entry.

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3. Select the "PresentationFramework 3.0" and confirm with "OK".

4. Choose the desired type in the "Select type" dialog.

The associated configuration dialog now opens for some controls.
5. Adapt the settings of the configuration dialog as needed. Confirm your entries with "OK".
The insertion process for the "WPF Control" object is finished.
As an alternative, double click in the object palette on the Smart Object "WPF control", in order
to insert it with the default properties into the process picture. Select the desired control in the
"Insert control" and "Insert type" dialogs.

Edit WPF control

You open the "Object properties" dialog in the context menu of the WPF control with
"Properties". You can define the specific attributes of the selected controls in the "Control
properties" properties group.

How to Insert a 3D Bar

Introduction
The 3D bar graph enables values to be displayed graphically three-dimensionally. The size
and properties which a 3D bar has in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.
The 3D bar is only available if the "Basic Process Control" optional package was installed with
WinCC.

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Inserting 3D Bar
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a 3D bar.
2. In the Object Palette, click the smart object "3D Bar".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a 3D
bar.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the 3D bar to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the circular arc insertion is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "3D Bar" in the object palette. A 3D bar with
default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the picture window, the "3D bar" object is
created in the shape of a square.

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Changing 3D Bar
Select an object of the 3D bar type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.
Note
The 3D bar is always surrounded by a rectangular frame. Do not use a black background.
The arrows indicating that an area has been exceeded are not visible at this time.

Configuring limits of the 3D bar

For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

See also
"Limits" Property Group (Page458)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

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How to Insert a Group Display

Introduction
The group display enables the current states of certain message types to be displayed by
hierarchy. Up to eight buttons permit display and operation of messages. Using a group display,
it is possible for example to implement a quick change to represent an error source. The size
and properties which a group display accepts in Runtime are defined in the Graphics Designer.
The group display is only available if the "Basic Process Control" optional package was
installed with WinCC.

Inserting group display

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a group display.
2. In the object palette, click the smart object "Group display".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the group
display.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the group display to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the circular arc insertion is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the smart object "Group display" in the object palette. A
group display with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key while drawing, the "Group display" object is created in the
shape of a square.

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Changing group display

Select an object of the group display type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.
Note
You cannot use group display objects in a group because of ORing UP.

Default settings of group display

If you insert a picture into the group display, the group display will have five buttons. 11
message types and their respective colors and texts are assigned to those five buttons. You
may change the assignment and may configure three additional buttons. The default settings
of graphics objects are changed by using the property dialog (right mouse button) of the default
object selected in the object palette.

Dynamizing the group display

The group display object is triggered by a tag which represents the message status. You can
use this tag to display the group display states in the other WinCC components . Other types
of dynamization are not possible.

Connect a group display with a PCS 7 measuring point

To configure the link to the tag, use the Dynamic Wizard "Link Group Display with PCS 7
Measuring Point". Start the wizard and define the required settings. The group display "Group
value" attribute is linked to the "EventState" structure tag of the PCS 7 measuring point
concerned.
The individual bits of this tag are interpreted in PCS 7 as follows:

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Status information of PCS 7 tag "EventState":

Bit in double word

Message class

Message type

Bit 31 (MS bit)

Alarm

AH

Bit 30

Alarm

AL

Bit 29

Warning

WH

Bit 28

Warning

WL

Bit 27

Tolerance

TH

Bit 26

Tolerance

TL

Bit 25

AS Process control message

Fault

Bit 24

AS Process control message

Error

Bit 23

Maintenance request

Maintenance request

Bit 22

Process message

PM

Bit 21

Not assigned

Not assigned

Bit 20

Operator request

OR

Bit 19

Operator input message

OM

Bit 18

Status message

Automation system (AS)

status

Bit 17

Status message

Status OS

Bit 16

Measuring point locked

Acknowledgment information of PCS 7 tag "EventState":

Bit in double word

580

Message class

Message type

Bit 15

Alarm

AH acknowledged

Bit 14

Alarm

AL acknowledged

Bit 13

Warning

WH acknowledged

Bit 12

Warning

WL acknowledged

Bit 11

Tolerance does not require acknowledgment for

PCS 7 *

TH acknowledged *

Bit 10

Tolerance does not require acknowledgment for

PCS 7 *

TL acknowledged *

Bit 9

AS Process control message

Fault acknowledged

Bit 8

AS Process control message

Fault acknowledged

Bit 7

Maintenance request

MR acknowledged

Bit 6

Process message

PM acknowledged

Bit 5

Not assigned

Not assigned

Bit 4

Operator request acknowledgment not required for

PCS 7

Bit 3

Operator input message acknowledgment not

required for PCS 7

Bit 2

Status message acknowledgment not required for

PCS 7

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Bit in double word

Message class

Message type

Bit 1

Status message acknowledgment not required for

PCS 7

Bit 0 (LS-bit)

Measuring point block acknowledgment not required

for PCS 7

* With new projects as of WinCC V7.01, you can configure messages of the "Tolerance"
message class as mandatory acknowledgement messages. The option is selected in the OS
Project Editor.
You may assign any of the 16 message types to any bit and thereby change the default settings.
Configuration is performed in the "Message type" property in "Message Types" property group.

Connecting a group display with a custom tag

Independent of PCS 7, you may connect a group display with a tag. In this tag you will assign
individual bits on a need basis.
1. Open the group display shortcut menu and select "Properties".
2. Select "Miscellaneous" in the "Properties" tab.
3. Open the shortcut menu in the "Group value" line, "Dynamic" column and select "Tag...".
The tag must be a signed 32-bit variable.
4. Select one of the tags from the process layer or from the internal tags in the "Select tag"
window.
5. Activate the "Upon Change" update cycle in the "Current" column.
If an internal tag is used, it should have the start value 65535 (0x0000FFFF). In this manner,
you can ensure that at the start - from the view of the group display - there are no
unacknowledged messages.
For individually configured group displays, the supplied PCS7 settings for acknowledgment
sample of "17" or "3089" is most likely not suitable for your project and must be adjusted.
You can thus influence the quitting pattern via the ""@EventQuit" tag.

Configuring Message Types

The "Message Types" property group contains attributes with which you can set the display
of messages depending on the 16 message types. For example, each message type may be
visualized by an appropriate label and by color changes of the button.

Assigning message types to buttons

In the "Assignment" object property of the group display you assign message types to the
buttons. Enter the respective bit numbers in the group value.
The buttons may have multiple assignments
with bit numbers corresponding to message classes. These are separated by "/".
with bit numbers corresponding to message types. These are separated by ",".

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The sequence of entries determines their priority. The earliest entry is displayed with the
highest priority in case of concurrent events.

Lock display
The "Lock" property group contains attributes with which you can change the view of locked
measuring points. The "Lock display" attribute specifies for a group display, whether or not a
locked measuring point should be displayed. The lock applies to all buttons of the group display,
independent of which other events in the hierarchy are pending.
In the default settings for the group display, the fifth button is reserved for display of status
"Measuring point locked" by using "Group value bit 16". This allows to display not only pending
events in the hierarchy but also those locked in subordinate measuring points.

See also
"Message Types" Property Group (Page461)
"Lock" Property Group (Page463)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)
Influencing the quitting pattern using EventQuit tag

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3.8.6.4

Working with Windows Objects

Working with Windows Objects

Introduction
The Windows objects are elements familiar from Windows applications: button, check box,
radio box and slider. A round button can also be designed. The objects can be modified and
made dynamic in many ways. They enable you to operate process events and to control
processes.
In the Graphics Designer, the various object types have default properties. When they are
inserted the objects import these default properties (except for individual geometric properties).
After insertion the properties of an object can be modified. In the same way the default settings
for the object types can be modified as required.

Overview
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Object

Description

Button

The button enables process operation. It is used for example to

acknowlege messages. A button can have one of two statuses: "On"
and "Off". A button is integrated into the process by providing the
corresponding attributes with dynamics.

Check box

The check box enables the operator to select several options and to
check the corresponding check boxes. It is also possible to check check
boxes by default so that the operator only changes the predefined value
as required. A check box is integrated into the process by providing the
corresponding attributes with dynamics.

Radio box

The option box enables the operator to selected one of the presented
options and to activate the corresponding options field. It is also
possible to activate one of the options fields by default so that the
operator only changes the predefined value as required. An option box
is integrated into the process by providing the corresponding attributes
with dynamics.

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Icon

Object

Description

Round
Button

The round button enables process operation. It is used for example to

acknowlege messages or to navigate in Runtime. A round button can
have one of three statuses: "On", "Off" and "Deactivated". It is also
possible to define whether a round button should by default be
displayed as pressed and whether it should latch down when pressed.
A round button is integrated into the process by making the
corresponding attributes dynamic

Slider

The slider is a slide controller and can be used to control processes.

For example, it can be used for infinitely variable changes to a value.
A slider is integrated into the process by providing the corresponding
attributes with dynamics.

See also
How to insert a button (Page585)
How to insert a check box (Page589)
How to insert an radio box (Page592)
How to insert a round button (Page594)
How to insert a slider (Page597)
How to change the default setting of object types (Page379)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Object Palette (Page238)
The Coordinate System of a Process Picture (Page228)
The Coordinate System of an Object (Page230)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Process Picture Dynamics (Page815)

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Button
How to insert a button
Introduction
The button enables process operation. A button is used for such actions as acknowledging
messages or for navigation in Runtime. A button can have one of two statuses: "On" and "Off".
A button is integrated into the process by providing the corresponding attributes with dynamics.

Inserting a button
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a button.
2. In the Object Palette, click the Windows object "Button".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
button.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the button to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "Button Configuration" dialog is opened.
5. Enter the desired values into the fields of the configuration dialog.
You will find the description of the configuration dialog in the next section.
6. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "Button" object is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the Windows object "Button" in the object palette. A button
with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The "Button Configuration"
dialog opens. As soon as you have confirmed your entries with "OK", the insertion process is
completed.
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If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the insertion, the object "Button" will assume the
shape of a square.

Changing a button
Select an object of the button type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the element "Rotate" in the standard toolbar to rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
How to configure a button (Page586)
How to configure a hotkey for navigation in Runtime (Page588)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)

How to configure a button

Introduction
The "Button Configuration" dialog opens at the end of the insertion process if the use of
configuration dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..." menu. It enables
fast configuration of the important features of the button.
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's pop-up menu. Specific attributes
can be changed in the "Object Properties" window.

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Text
The button can display a text that describes its function.
Enter the desired text. Only one text line is available in the configuration dialog. Multiline text
can be input by changing the "Text" attribute in the "Object Properties" window. You can find
the detailed description in the "Changing field labels with the "Text" attribute" section.

Font
The font for displaying the text can be changed.
Click one of the three possible buttons to open the associated dialogs. You can find the detailed
description of the dialogs in the sections "Changing the Font" and "Changing Font Color".

Operation
An authorization can be assigned for operation of the button. A hotkey can be defined for the
button, which allows the control with a key or key combination.
Click one of the two offered buttons to open the respective dialogs. You can find the detailed
description of the dialogs in the "Set hotkey for navigation in Runtime" section.

Change Picture on Mouse Click

An event can be assigned for the selected button with this function. If the button is clicked with
the mouse, the display of the process picture specified here is opened.

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Enter the name of the picture to be displayed or click the
, to open the dialog "Pictures" to
select a picture. The "Pictures" Dialog shows all pictures in the PDL format in the graphics
directory "GraCS" of the current WinCC project.
There is an extensive description of this topic in the chapter "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".
Note
You must not use the "Change Picture on Mouse Click" function in the Basic Process Control
area. Use the SSMChangeWorkField function for opening a picture in the working area. Use
the SSMOpenTopField function to open an additional picture window.

See also
Selecting a tag (Page608)
How to configure a hotkey for navigation in Runtime (Page588)
How to insert a button (Page585)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)

How to configure a hotkey for navigation in Runtime

Introduction
The "Button" object is used to open a configured event. For example, objects of the button
type can be placed between multiple pictures.
The configured change to another process picture is made as soon as the button is clicked
with the mouse in Runtime. This event can also be triggered by a keyboard operation if a
specific key or key combination was configured for the button with the "Hotkey" attribute. An
authorization can also be assigned for operation of the button.

Configuring change picture

The change picture is configured with a constant for the mouse-click event as direct connection.
If the button is clicked with the mouse, the display of the process picture specified here is
opened.
The name of the picture that you want to display can be configured in the "Insert Button" dialog.
Alternatively you can also change the configured direct connection in the "Events" tab of the
"Object Properties" window. You can find the detailed description in "Making Process Pictures
Dynamic".

Setting hotkeys
As an alternative to operation with the mouse, a button can also be triggered using the
keyboard. To do so, a hotkey must be set.

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Double-click the "Hotkey" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group of the "Object
Properties" window. Select one of the function keys with the mouse or enter a key or key
combination. If a hotkey has been defined for a button, an arrow is displayed in the object
properties beside the "Hotkey" attribute.
Note
If a group is to be operated with a hotkey, the hotkey must only be assigned to the single
"Button" object in the group. A hotkey assigned to the entire group will not work in Runtime.

Setting authorizations
The User Administrator editor is used in WinCC to assign authorizations for the users. An
authorization can be assigned for every object in the Graphics Designer. Only the user with
the appropriate authorization can operate this object.
Double-click the "Authorization" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group of the "Object
Properties" window. Select one of the available authorizations.
Note
To operate the button in Runtime, the "Operator-Control Enable" and "Display" attributes
must have the value "Yes". The value of the "Authorization" attribute must contain the access
authorization of the current user.

See also
How to configure a button (Page586)
How to insert a button (Page585)

How to insert a check box

Introduction
The check box enables the operator to select several options and to check the corresponding
check boxes. Check boxes can be activated by default so the user changes the default values

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only as required. A check box is integrated into the process by providing the corresponding
attributes with dynamics.

Inserting a check box

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a check box.
2. In the Object Palette, click the Windows object "Check box".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the check
box.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the check box to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the check box insertion is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the Windows object "Check box" in the object palette. A
check box with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the picture window, the "Check box" object
is created in the shape of a square.

Changing a check box

Select an object of the check box type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

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Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object or to change the
appearance of the text.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Setting the number of boxes

The "Number of Boxes" specifies the total number of boxes for the selected object. For each
object, a maximum number of 32 boxes can be set.
At the same time, the value of the "Number of Boxes" attribute specifies the upper limit value
for the "Index" attribute in the "Font" property group. Changing the value can have the following
effects:

Increasing the number

New fields are inserted under the field with the highest value in the "Index" attribute. The
standard labeling of the new box can be changed using the "Text" attribute in the "Font"
property group.

Reducing the number

All boxes with the value of the "Index" attribute higher than the new number are deleted.

Setting selected boxes

The "Selected Boxes" attribute sets which fields in a check box are to be shown as enabled.
Multiple boxes can be enabled simultaneously.
Each field is represented by a bit in a 32-bit word. In order to activate a field, the corresponding
bit must have the value "1". The 32-bit word contains the information for all fields of the check
box. The value of the "Selected Boxes" attribute is specified in hexadecimals.

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See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)

How to insert an radio box

Introduction
The option box enables the operator to selected one of the presented options and to activate
the corresponding options field. One of the option groups can be activated by default so the
user changes the default values only as required. An option box is integrated into the process
by providing the corresponding attributes with dynamics.

Inserting Radio box

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert an option group.
2. In the Object Palette, click the Windows object "Option Group".

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3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the radio
box.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the radio box to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the circular arc insertion is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the Windows object "Option Group" in the object palette. A
radio box with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.
If you hold down the <SHIFT> key when drawing the picture window, the "Radio box" object
is created in the shape of a square.

Changing radio box

Select an object of the option group type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the elements in the standard toolbar to mirror or rotate the object or to change the
appearance of the text.
Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

Setting the number of boxes

The "Number of Boxes" specifies the total number of boxes for the selected object. For each
object, a maximum number of 32 boxes can be set.
At the same time, the value of the "Number of Boxes" attribute specifies the upper limit value
for the "Index" attribute in the "Font" property group. Changing the value can have the following
effects:

Increasing the number

New fields are inserted under the field with the highest value in the "Index" attribute. The
standard labeling of the new box can be changed using the "Text" attribute in the "Font"
property group.

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Reducing the number

All boxes with the value of the "Index" attribute higher than the new number are deleted.

Setting selected boxes

The "Selected Box" attribute sets which option field in an option group is displayed as activated.
Only one of the boxes can be enabled.
Each field is represented by a bit in a 32-bit word. In order to activate a field, the corresponding
bit must have the value "1". The 32-bit word contains the information for all fields of the check
box. The value of the "Selected Box" attribute is specified in hexadecimals.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)

How to insert a round button

Introduction
The round button enables process operation. For example, it is used to acknowlege messages.
A round button can have one of three statuses: "On", "Off" and "Deactivated". It is also possible
to define whether a round button should by default be displayed as pressed and whether it

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should latch down when pressed. A round button is integrated into the process by making the
corresponding attributes dynamic

Inserting a round button

1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a round button.
2. In the Object Palette, click the Windows object "Round Button".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a round
button.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the round button to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the circular arc insertion is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the Windows object "Round Button" in the object palette. A
round button with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin.

Changing a round button

Select an object of the round button type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:

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Rectangle surrounding the object

Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use the color palette to change the background color.
Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)

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Slider
How to insert a slider
Introduction
The slider is a slide controller and can be used to control processes. For example, it can be
used for infinitely variable changes to a value. A slider is integrated into the process by
providing the corresponding attributes with dynamics.

Inserting a slider
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a slider.
2. In the Object Palette, click the Windows object "Slider".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert a
slider.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the slider to the desired size with the mouse button pressed.
The "Slider Configuration" dialog is opened.

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5. Enter the desired values into the fields of the configuration dialog.
You will find the description of the configuration dialog in the next section.
6. Confirm the input with "OK".
The insertion process for the "Slider" object is finished.
Alternatively you can double-click the Windows object "Slider" in the object palette. A slider
with default object properties is then inserted near the picture origin. The "Slider Configuration"
dialog opens. As soon as you have confirmed your entries with "OK", the insertion process is
completed.
If you press and hold down <SHIFT> during the insertion, the object "Slider" will assume the
shape of a square.

Changing a slider
Select an object of the slider type if you wish to carry out one of the following changes:
Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the picture.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.
Palettes and toolbars
Use the element "Rotate" in the standard toolbar to rotate the object.
Use the color palette to change the background color of the border.
Use the elements in the style palette to change the display style for the object.
Attributes
Open the "Object Properties" window to change the current values of the desired attributes.

See also
How to configure a slider (Page598)
How to configure the value range and operation of a slider (Page600)
Basic Static Operations (Page380)
Basic Dynamic Operations (Page407)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)

How to configure a slider

Introduction
The "Slider Configuration" dialog opens after the insertion process if the use of configuration
dialogs is enabled in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..." menu. It enables fast
configuration of the important features of the slider.

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The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's pop-up menu. Specific attributes
can be changed in the "Object Properties" window.

Tag
The slider can made dynamic by embedding a tag.
Enter the name of the desired tag or click the
, to open the dialog "Tags - project: ..." to
select a tag. See the "Select Tag" section for the detailed description.

Updating
The frequency of updating the display can be configured for the value displayed by the
slider.
Enter the desired interval or select an interval from the dropdown list. See the "Changing
update cycle" section for the detailed description.

Limits
The two holders of the slider are specified by the maximum value and the minimum value of
the slider. Setting operation steps specifies the number of increments by which the slider is
moved when the mouse is clicked on the slider.
Enter the desired limits and the number of operation steps for displaying the slider.

Alignment
Specifies whether the slider is moved horizontally or vertically.

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See also
Selecting a tag (Page608)
How to configure the value range and operation of a slider (Page600)
How to insert a slider (Page597)
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)

How to configure the value range and operation of a slider

Introduction
The value range of the required operation steps and the appearance of the "Slider" object can
be configured as required by changing the relevant attributes.

Setting scale end values and zero point value

The attribute "Maximum value" defines the absolute value for the display of the highest
value.
The attribute "Minimum value" defines the absolute value for the display of the smallest
value.
The attribute "Zero point value" defines the absolute value for the zero value of the bar.

Operation Steps
The "Operation Steps" attribute specifies for the slider the number of steps the slider is moved
in the corresponding direction with one mouse-click the slide surface.
The number of times to click the slider surface for the slider to move from one end to the other
is calculated as follows:
("Maximum value" "Minimum value") / "Operation steps".

Example:
Where maximum value = 100, minimum value = 0, operation steps = 25 the slider surface must
be clicked four times to move the slider from one end to the other.

Alignment
The "Alignment" attribute defines for the "Slider" object whether the movement of the slider is
in a horizontal or vertical direction.

Windows Style
The "Windows Style" attribute specifies whether the style for displaying the objects in the
Graphics Designer is set or the operating system defaults are used.

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See also
How to insert a slider (Page597)
How to configure a slider (Page598)

3.8.6.5

Working with Tube Objects

Working with tube objects

Introduction
With WinCC you can recreate in your process pictures systems of interconnected tubes, tanks
and other objects.
To do this, select suitable objects from the library and connect them with each other using the
tube objects. Due to the provided fill pattern, the tubes appear three-dimensionally and thus
allow the creation of intuitively well ascertainable pictures.

Tube objects
WinCC provides the following tube objects:
Tube objects

Function

Polygon Tube

Tube made of a polyline

T-piece

T-shaped branch in four possible orientations

Double T-piece

Cross-shaped connector

Tube Bend

Cross- or elliptical-shaped bend of any radian

You create your system from these tube objects and the objects in the object library, e.g. tanks
and valves.

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See also
How to insert a polygone tube (Page602)
How to insert a T-piece (Page603)
How to insert a double T-piece (Page604)
How to insert a tube bend (Page605)

How to insert a polygone tube

Introduction
WinCC has tube objects for simulating pipe systems. Using the polygon tube, you create pipes
with as many bends as is required. You can round off the corner points or display them as
angled corners.
The polygon tube is an open polygon: Even if you select the same start and end point, the
ends will not be connected with one another.

A polygon tube can have any number of corners. The corner points are numbered in the order
of their creation. You can move them individually.

Procedure
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a polygon tube.
2. In the object palette, click the tube object "Polygon tube".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to begin the polygon
tube.
The mouse pointer changes into a cross with arrows pointing inward.
4. Click the selected starting point with the left mouse button.
5. Click every other desired corner of the polygon tube with the left mouse button.
Click with the right mouse button to correct the last drawn section of the polygon tube.

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6. In order to complete the polygon tube, double click on the desired end point.
7. In order to move an individual corner point at a later point in time, drag the small square
next to the end point to the desired point.

Properties
Use the "Line connection type" attribute under "Styles" to set the type of corner display:
Square: No rounding on the corner points
Round: Arc-formed corner rounding
Use the "Line weight" attribute under "Styles" to set the width of tube display.

How to insert a T-piece

Introduction
WinCC contains tube objects to recreated pipe systems. You can create a T-shaped tube
connection with the T-piece.

You can give the T-piece any of four possible orientations.

Procedure
1. Open the picture into which you want to insert a T-piece.
2. Click on the tube object "T-piece" in the object palette.
The mouse pointer will change to a hollow T.
3. Position the mouse point at the position in the picture where you want to insert the T-piece
and click on the desired position.
The T-piece is inserted. You can change the position and size using the mouse.
Change the orientation using the properties of the T-piece.

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Properties
Set the width of the tube using the "Line Weight" and "Styles" attribute.
Set the orientation of the T-piece in degrees using the "Rotation Angle" attribute. This
determines whether the "leg" of the "T" points downwards (0), to the left (90), upwards (180)
or to the right (270). The entered value is automatically rounded to a multiple of 90.
Note
If you have grouped the "T piece" tube object and then dissolve the group, the tube object
loses the rotation position and jumps backs to the original location.

How to insert a double T-piece

Introduction
WinCC has tube objects for simulating pipe systems. Use the double T-piece to construct a
tube-crossing.

Procedure
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a double T-piece.
2. In the object palette, click the tube object "Double T-piece".
The mouse pointer will change to a hollow cross.
3. Position the mouse pointer on the place in the picture that you want to put the double Tpiece and click on the desired point.
The double T-piece is inserted. You can adapt it in position and size.

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Features
Use the "Line weight" attribute under "Styles" to set the width of tube display.

How to insert a tube bend

Introduction
WinCC has tube objects for simulating pipe systems. Use the tube bend to create a bend in a
piece of pipe.
You can set the size, shape - circular or elliptical arc - and bend dimensions of the tube bend
to your requirements.

Procedure
1. Open the picture in which you want to insert a tube bend.
2. In the object palette, click the tube object "Tube bend".
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the tube
bend.
The mouse pointer will change to a hollow quarter-ellipse.
4. Click on the selected position.
The tube bend is inserted with certain start parameters: As a circular arc with equal width
and height in the first quadrant with a circular dimension 90 = .
5. Adapt the tube bend in position, size and shape.
If the width and height are not equal, the circular arc becomes an elliptical arc.
6. To change the orientation of the quarter-arc, mirror or turn it.
7. To move the start or end point at a later point in time, drag the small square next to the
affected point in the desired direction.
This changes the circular dimensions of the tube bend.

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Features
Geometry of the tube bend
Define the size and shape of the tube bend with the attributes under "Geometry". The "Start
angle" and "End angle" attributes determine the circular dimensions.
The attributes are independent from one another.
If you change the "Width" and "Height", the "RadiusX" and "RadiusY" change with them
automatically. Start and end angle remain.
If the start and end angle change, the "Width" and "Height" change with them automatically.
RadiusX and RadiusY remain.
If you change "RadiusX" and "RadiusY", the "Width" and "Height" change with them
automatically. Start and end angle remain.

Tube width
Use the "Line weight" attribute under "Styles" to set the width of tube display.

3.8.6.6

Quick Object Configuration

Quick Object Configuration

Introduction
The Graphics Designer has configuration dialogs for quick configuration of individual objects.
the important features of an object can be set in the configuration dialogs.
If the use of configuration dialogs is activated in the "Options" tab of the "Tools / Settings..."
menu, the associated dialog is opened when an object is inserted.
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's pop-up menu.
Configuration dialogs are available for the following objects: I/O Field, Bars, Graphic Object,
Status Display, Text List, Button and Slider. The contents of the configuration dialogs are
different for different objects.

Short description of the configurable features

Features

Description

Object type

Updating

Specifies the frequency with which the display of the displayed value
is updated. Enter the desired interval or select an interval from the
dropdown list.

I/O field, bar,

status display,
text list, slider

Alignment

Specifies whether the slider is moved horizontally or vertically.

Slider

Bar direction Specifies the direction of the coordinate axis to which the maximum
value of bar points.

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Features

Description

Object type

Operation

An authorization can be assigned for operation of the button. A hotkey

can also be defined, which allows operation with a key or key
combination.
You can find the detailed description in the "Button" chapter.

Button

Bit Position

A state can also be assigned to a certain bit position on the tag.

Click the arrow key to select a bit position.

Status display

Picture
The picture selection shows all pictures in the graphics directory
Selection
"GraCS" of the current WinCC project. The picture selected in the
with Preview picture selection is displayed as a preview. Select a picture or click the
"Browse ..." button to insert additional pictures from the picture
selection.
See the "Select Pictures" section for the detailed description.

Graphic
object, Status
Display

An event can be assigned for the selected button with this function. If
Change
the button is clicked with the mouse, the display of the process picture
Picture on
Mouse Click specified here is opened.
See the "Select Pictures" section for the detailed description.

Button

Field type

Specify whether the selected object is used for input, output or input
and output of values.

I/O field, Text

List

Limits

Enter values as "Max. value" and "Min. value" to define the two ends
of the slider. You can also define the number of operation steps for the
slider. The number of operation steps specifies the number of
increments by which the slider is moved when the mouse is clicked on
the slider.

Bar, Slider

Font

Change font options for viewing button labels and display values. Click
one of the buttons to open the associated dialog.

I/O field, Text

List, button

Text

Enter a text as a button label, which for example describes its

function.
Only one text line is available in the configuration dialog. Multiline text
can be input by changing the "Text" attribute in the "Object Properties"
window.

Button

Tag

The selected object can be set dynamically by embedding a tag. With

an I/O field and text list the value of the tags can be displayed as output
or changed by an input depending on the selected field type.
See the "Select Tags" section for the detailed description.

I/O field, bar,

status display,
text list, slider

Status list

The status list shows the linked pictures and the specified flash
frequency for all configured states. States can be inserted and every
setting can be changed with a pop-up menu. Pictures of the picture
selection can be referenced by dragging them with the mouse to the
required position in the state list.
You can find the detailed description in "Status Display".

Status display

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See also
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
How to configure a slider (Page598)
How to configure a button (Page586)
How to configure a text list (Page559)
How to configure a status display (Page553)
How to insert a graphic object (Page547)
How to configure a bar (Page541)
How to configure an I/O Field (Page530)
Selecting pictures (Page610)
How to configure states (Page554)
Selecting a tag (Page608)

Selecting a tag
Introduction
Tags are a central element in the dynamics of process pictures created with the aid of the
Graphics Designer. By linking a process tag to an object, such things as the change in a
measured value can be represented graphically. More details about the use of tags can be
found in the chapter called "Tag Management".
The dialog "Tags project: ..." contains all tags available in the project. This dialog can look
as follows:

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The width of both window areas and the columns in the tag display can be changed by
moving the vertical separation lines.

Filter
If there is a large number of configured tags, the search procedure can take some time. For
instance, for 15,000 tags the search procedure takes about a minute.
By specifying a filter, you can narrow the scope of the search and reduce the duration of the
search procedure. You can achieve a significant increase in efficiency if you configure tags
with the aid of a tag prefix.

Data source
You can use the "Data Source" window to select the tags it is intended to display.

Tag groups
The selected tag group complete with its sub-folders is displayed in the left-hand area in the
form of a folder tree.
Directories and subdirectories can be opened or closed by clicking on the "+" or "-" icons. The
tags available for the selected entry are shown in the tag display.

Tag display
The right-hand area contains all the tags that are available for the entry The tag display is
divided into four columns showing the tag name, type and parameter, and the point in time at
which the tag was last changed. Tags can be sorted by clicking on the respective column
heading.

Procedure
1. Select the required filter. An asterisk means that no filter is to be used or no filter has been
defined.
2. Select one or more data sources.
3. Open the desired tag group in the left-hand window area.
4. Select the desired tag from the right-hand window area.
5. Confirm you selection with "OK".
The dialog "Tags - project: ..." will be closed.
The selected tag is assigned to the selected object and you can continue with the
configuration.

See also
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)
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Selecting pictures
Introduction
Pictures can be linked to many objects in the Graphics Designer.
Depending on the object, the linked pictures can be in various file formats:
Object

Formats

How pictures are linked

Picture Window

PDL

Open the "Picture Name" selection dialog via the "Object

Properties" window, "Picture Name" attribute, in the
"Miscellaneous" property group

Graphic Object

BMP, DIB,
ICO, CUR,
EMF, WMF,
GIF, JPG

Open the "Picture" selection dialog via the "Object Properties"

window, "Picture" attribute,
or
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's popup menu

Status display

BMP, DIB,
EMF, WMF

Open the "Picture" selection dialog via the "Object Properties"

window, "Basic Picture" and "Flash Picture" in the property group
"Status",
or
The configuration dialog can also be opened with the object's popup menu; it has a picture selection with picture preview

Button

BMP, DIB,
ICO, CUR,
EMF, WMF,
GIF, JPG

Open the "Picture" selection dialog via the "Object Properties"

window, "Picture Status On" and "Picture Status Off" attributes, in
the "Miscellaneous" property group

Round Button

BMP, DIB,
ICO, CUR,
EMF, WMF,
GIF, JPG

Open the "Picture" selection dialog via the "Object Properties"

window, "Picture Status On", "Picture Status Off" and "Picture
Status Deactivated" attributes, in the "Pictures" property group

The "Picture Name" selection dialog

The "Picture Name" selection dialog displays all the PDL files in the current project. Any file
that you wish to link to the picture window must belong to the current WinCC project.

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The "Picture" selection dialog

The "Picture" selection dialog lists the pictures that are available in the project. These pictures
are held in the "GraCS" graphic folder belonging to the current WinCC project. To add further
pictures to the current project, you can use the "Browse ..." button to open another selection
dialog.

Configuration Dialog
The appearance of a configuration dialog depends on the selected object. For instance it may
look like this for a graphic object:

The picture selection lists the pictures that are available in the project. These pictures are held
in the "GraCS" graphic folder belonging to the current WinCC project. To add further pictures
to the current project, you can use the "Browse ..." button to open another selection dialog.

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Find Picture
This dialog can be used to switch to any folder in order to select one or more pictures and add
them to the current project. These are then displayed in the selection of pictures in the selection
dialog.

Note
Referenced graphic files must be copied to the "GraCS" graphic folder for the current WinCC
project in order to be available on a destination computer. If you use the Browse ..." button
in the picture selection, the selected graphic files are automatically copied to the "GraCS"
graphic folder.
To select a series of pictures:
Hold down the <SHIFT> key and click the first and the last picture.
To select individual pictures:
Hold down the <CTRL> key and click the individual pictures.

See also
Quick Object Configuration (Page606)
Working with Windows Objects (Page583)
Working with Smart Objects (Page509)

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3.8.7

Working with Combined Objects

3.8.7.1

Working with Combined Objects

Introduction
The objects of the Object Palette can be combined by forming a group or a customized object
from a multiple selection. In addition, a group or a combined object can be inserted into the
project library. This makes the group or the combined object available as a library object for
re-use in other process pictures or projects.

Overview
Object

Description

Group

A multiple selection of objects can be combined into a group. A group of objects

can be edited like a single object in the Graphics Designer. In addition, it is possible
to edit the objects in the group individually.

Unlike multiple selection, the selection marks of the individual objects in a group
are not shown. The selection marks cover the entire group. The selection frame
of the multiple selection becomes the rectangle around all the objects of the group.

Customized
Object

A customized object allows the properties and events that are displayed and
changed in the "Object Properties" window to be configured individually. A
customized object can be edited in the Graphics Designer like a single object of
the object palette.

As in a group the selection marks of the individual objects are no longer shown
after creation of a customized object. The selection marks surround the entire
customized object. The selection frame of the multiple selection becomes the
rectangle around all the objects of the customized object.

Library object

The library of the Graphics Designer is versatile tool for saving and managing
graphic objects that can be used for creating process pictures. It is divided into
two areas:

The "Global Library" offers a variety of prefinished graphic objects that are inserted
into a picture as library objects and can be configured as required.

The "Project Library" enables a project-specific library to be built.

See also
Working with the library (Page646)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Working with Groups (Page614)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
Working with Objects in the Object Palette (Page473)
Working with Objects (Page378)
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3.8.7.2

Working with Groups

Working with Groups

Introduction
A multiple selection of objects can be combined into a group. A group of objects can be edited
like a single object in the Graphics Designer. It is also possible to edit objects in the group
individually.
Unlike multiple selection, the selection marks of the individual objects in a group are not shown.
The selection marks cover the entire group. The selection frame of the multiple selection
becomes the rectangle around all the objects of the group.

See also
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
How to ungroup a group (Page617)
How to change the properties of a group (Page616)
How to change the objects of a group (Page615)
How to group objects (Page614)

How to group objects

Introduction
The objects of a multiple selection can be combined into a group with the "Group" command.

Requirements
Select at least two objects of any type, except for control and OLE objects.

Procedure
1. Open the pop-up menu of the multiple selection or the "Edit" menu.
2. Select the entry "Group / Grouping".
The selected objects are combined into a group. The selection frame of the multiple
selection becomes the rectangle around the group. Selection marks are shown for the group
only.

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Note
Single groups can be combined into larger groups with the "Group" command. This allows a
group hierarchy to be built up. Groups can be ungrouped in the reverse order of grouping.

See also
Working with Objects (Page378)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
Working with Groups (Page614)
How to ungroup a group (Page617)
How to change the properties of a group (Page616)
How to change the objects of a group (Page615)

How to change the objects of a group

Introduction
The objects included in a group can be edited individually by changing their attributes. The
objects are displayed in the "Object Properties" window with their property groups as a
component of the "Group" object type.

Requirements
Select a group.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" window.
2. Select the property group of the desired individual object in the "Properties" tab that contains
the attribute you want to change.
The change of attributes is described in detail in the section "Change object properties".

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See also
Working with Groups (Page614)
Working with Objects (Page378)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
How to ungroup a group (Page617)
How to change the properties of a group (Page616)
How to group objects (Page614)

How to change the properties of a group

Introduction
A group can be edited in the Graphics Designer like all other objects.
The following elements are shown as components of the "Group" object type in the "Object
Properties" window:
Property groups and attributes that have at least one of the selected objects.
All objects in the group with their own property groups and attributes.
Changing a common group attribute affects all single objects that have this attribute. However,
for some attributes this effect has special rules that only apply to the group.

Examples
If the origin of a group is moved, the values of the individual objects are configured for the
new coordinates. The attributes "Position X" and "Position Y" of the individual objects do
not change relative to the origin of the group.
If the size of a group is changed, the attributes "Height" and "Width" of the individual objects
are adjusted by percentage to match the resize.
If a rotation has been specified for single objects of a group in Runtime, these settings are
matched to the size of the group. The reference points for the rotation refer to the origin of
the group, not the origin of the single object. In Runtime, the objects for which no rotation
was specified remain unchanged.
Linear objects that are in a group with surface objects always take the color that was last
selected for the background color or the line color in the properties of the group.
If a group is to be operated with a hotkey, the hotkey must only be assigned to the single
"Button" object in the group. A hotkey assigned to the entire group will not work in Runtime.

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Requirements
Select a group.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" window.
2. Select the property group in the "Properties" tab that contains the attribute you want to
change.
The change of attributes is described in detail in the section "Change object properties".

Alternative Operation
You can also change the properties of a group with the mouse. The complete group is edited
in the same way as single objects.
Note
The objects included in a group can also be edited individually by changing their attributes.
The objects are displayed in the "Object Properties" window with their property groups as a
component of the "Group" object type.

See also
How to group objects (Page614)
How to change the objects of a group (Page615)
How to ungroup a group (Page617)
The Properties of an Object (Page423)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Working with Groups (Page614)

How to ungroup a group

Introduction
Use the "Ungroup" command to split a group into its individual objects. The individual objects
are then shown as a multiple selection.

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Requirements
Select a group.

Procedure
1. Open the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu.
2. Select "Group / Ungroup".
The group selection marks are hidden.
The objects of the group are shown as a multiple selection.
Note
The "Group" command can be used to group single objects again and thus to build up a
hierarchy of groups. Groups can be ungrouped in the reverse order of grouping.

See also
How to group objects (Page614)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Working with Groups (Page614)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)

3.8.7.3

Working with Customized Objects

Working with Customized Objects

Introduction
A customized object allows the properties and events that are displayed and changed in the
"Object Properties" window to be configured individually.
A customized object can be edited in the Graphics Designer like a single object of the object
palette. As in a group, the selection marks of the individual objects are no longer shown after
creation of a customized object. The selection marks surround the entire customized object.
The selection border of the multiple selection becomes the rectangle around all the objects of
the customized object.
Note the following features for working with customized objects:
The "Undo" function is not available for editing a customized object.
Configured events of the single objects are deleted when the customized object is created.

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If editing mode is exited without an object having been selected, the customized object is
deleted. When edit mode is exited, only the selected objects are imported into the
customized object.
Assigning hotkeys and specifying a TAB sequence for objects within the customized object
is not supported.
If a group display is embedded in a customized object, the attributes "group value", "group
relevant" and "bit pattern group display" are available for the customized object to capture
and acknowledge states.
It is not possible to create an attribute name twice. These attributes are preassigned by the
system (standard attributes). If the attributes of a customized object are deleted, these
attribute names cannot be used in a user specific attribute. Further information on the
standard attributes is available under "ScreenItem Object".
User-specific attribute names of the customized object must not contain special characters.
Use the "Configuration Dialog Customized Object" to display the properties for the
customized object. If a standard property is deleted in "Configuration Dialog Customized
Object", this property is not displayed on the Graphics Designer user interface. Access to
the property is still possible using VBS. This relates to the following properties: ObjectName,
Layer, Left, Top, Width, Height, Visible, Enabled and PasswordLevel
Properties with the prefix "@" are not electronically numbered (enum) by VBA. Therefore,
these properties cannot be edited by VBA either.
Properties with the prefix "@" cannot be accessed by VBS.
When addressing the user-specific properties of a customized object, the spelling used in
the VB scripts must correspond to the spelling in the Configuration dialog. Particular
attention must be paid to upper/lower case.
The property name is dependent on the language set. In the case of customized object with
multilanguage, user-specific properties, the language must be set in the "Configuration
Dialog Customized Object" before editing the customized object. The required language
can then be selected.
Note
The text properties of the text object must be dynamic to allow changes from external
sources so the language change can function.

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See also
How to create a customized object (Page620)
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
Events of a customized object (Page632)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
How to edit a customized object (Page634)
How to delete a customized object (Page635)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
Example: How to create a compressor as a customized object (Page636)
Configuration on a Customized Object (Page621)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)

How to create a customized object

Introduction
The objects of a multiple selection can be combined into a customized object with the command
"Customized Object / create..." in the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu. A customized object
can be created from one single object. The object types Application Window, Picture Window,
OLE object, Group or another customized object cannot be imported into a customized object.

Requirements
Select at least two objects of any type, except for Application Window, Picture Window,
OLE object, Group or another customized object.

Procedure
1. Open the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu.
2. Select the entry "Customized object / create...".
The dialog "Configuration Dialog Customized object" will open.

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3. Configure the available properties and events of the customized object.
For more information on the configuration of a customized object see section "The
Configuration of a Customized Object".
4. Confirm your configuration with "OK".
The selected objects are combined into a customized object.
The selection border of the multiple selection becomes the rectangle around the customized
object.

See also
How to edit a customized object (Page634)
How to delete a customized object (Page635)
Example: How to create a compressor as a customized object (Page636)
Working with Objects (Page378)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Configuration on a Customized Object (Page621)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)

Configuration on a Customized Object

Introduction
The "Configuration Dialog Customized object" can be used to specify which properties and
events can be configured for the customized object. The "Object Properties" window will show

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only the properties and events defined in the configuration dialog for the customized object.
The settings are configured in the "Properties" and "Events" tab.

The "Configuration Dialog Customized object" can be opened from the pop-up menu of a
selected customized object.

"Properties" Tab
A selection of the available property groups and attributes can be defined in the "Properties"
tab. The name and configured language of an available attribute can be changed. Every
attribute of the customized object can also be linked to attributes of the included single objects.

"Event" Tab
The events available for the customized object are configured with the "Events" tab. It is also
possible to make "Object Events" available for the included single objects.

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See also
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
Events of a customized object (Page632)

Properties of a Customized Object

Introduction
A selection of the available property groups and attributes is defined in the "Properties" tab.
The name and configured language of an available attribute can be changed. Every attribute
of the customized object can also be linked to attributes of the included single objects.

Configuration Dialog
Object type
The name of the selected customized object is shown and can be changed.

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Enter the desired name.

Language
The customized object and the attributes of the selected properties can be configured for
different languages.
Select the desired attribute and click the

to select one of the languages installed in WinCC.

Selected Properties
This area contains the property groups and attributes that are displayed as properties of the
customized object in the "Object Properties" window. Property groups and attributes can be
inserted or removed from the selection as required.
Click the "+" or "-" symbols to show or hide subordinate entries.
The detailed description can be found in the following chapters: "Configuring property groups
of a customized object" and "Configuring attributes of a customized object".

Objects
This area contains all objects included in the customized object.
Select an object for which you want to show the available attributes in the "Properties" area.

Properties
This area contains all available attributes for the object selected in the "Objects" area.
Double-click the desired attribute to insert it into the assigned position in the "Selected
Properties" area. The detailed description can be found in "Inserting or deleting attributes of a
customized object".
Note
An object can only receive an operator authorization as a "Whole". A customized object can
have an operator authorization but its subordinate objects cannot.

Object Properties dialog

"Inherit Status" attribute
The statuses of the "Display" and "Operator-Control Enable" properties of the user object can
be inherited by the individual objects of the customized object. The "Inherit status" property
determines whether a change in the outer "Display" and "Operator-Control Enable" properties
will be passed on to the inner objects.

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Example 1
You have configured the "Inherit status" properties for the customized object with "Yes" and
"Display" as "Visible".
One object of the customized object has the property "invisible".
If the customized object is made invisible and then again visible, then all objects of the
customized object are shown as visible even if one object of the customized object has the
property "invisible".

Example 2
You have configured the "Inherit status" property for the customized object with "No" and
"Display" as "Visible".
The customized object is now switched to invisible. If you then set the property of an inner
object to "Visible", the inner object will not be visible. The inner object will only become visible
if the customized object is changed to visible.

See also
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Events of a customized object (Page632)

How to configure the property groups of the customized object

Introduction
Only the property groups that are listed in the "Selected Properties" area are shown for the
customized object in the "Object Properties" window. The selection of the property groups is

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configured with the "Theme Selection" dialog. The predefined name of the user-defined
property groups can be changed.

All Themes
All property groups that can be made available for the customized object are listed in the left
section of the dialog.

Selected Themes
All property groups that have been selected for the customized object are listed in the right
section of the dialog.

Arrow buttons
Use the arrow buttons to move property groups in the direction of the arrow:
Moves the selected property groups from the left to the right section.
Moves the selected property groups from the right to the left section.

Prerequisites
The "Properties" tab in the "Configuration Dialog Customized object" must be open for the
selected customized object.
There must be at least one property group in the "Selected Themes" area.

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Selecting property groups

1. Select the "Theme Selection..." entry in the pop-up menu of the "Selected Properties"
area".
The "Theme Selection" dialog will open.
2. Select the desired property groups and move them with the arrow buttons.
3. Confirm your configuration with "OK".

Renaming property groups

User-defined property groups can also be used for a customized object. By default they contain
the name "User-defined" and a sequential number. The name of the user-defined property
groups can be changed.
1. Select "Rename" in the pop-up menu of the property group.
The name of the property group can now be edited.
2. Enter the new name for the property group.
3. Confirm your entry with <ENTER>.

See also
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
Events of a customized object (Page632)

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How to add and delete attributes of a customized object

Introduction
Attributes of the customized object that are to be shown in the "Object Properties" window can
be added or deleted from the selection in the "Selected Properties" area of the configuration
dialog.

Prerequisites
The "Properties" tab in the "Configuration Dialog Customized object" must be open for the
selected customized object.

Adding attributes
1. Select an object in the "Objects" area from which you want to provide an attribute for the
customized object.
The available attributes of the selected object are shown in the "Properties" area.
2. Double-click the desired attribute in the area "Properties".
The selected attribute is added at the relevant position in the "Selected Properties" area.
The attribute name is extended by the object name of the object.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until all desired attributes are in the "Selected Properties" area.
Alternatively you can drag attributes to the desired position in the "Selected Properties" area
with the mouse.

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Note
The attributes of the customized object are automatically assigned to the associated property
group. The default assignments cannot be changed.

Deleting attributes
1. Select the attributes of the customized object that you want to delete in the "Selected
Properties" area.
2. Select "Delete" in the pop-up menu of the selected attribute.
The selected attribute is removed from the selection.

See also
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
Events of a customized object (Page632)

How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object

Introduction
The properties of the attributes available in the customized object can be changed for display
in the "Object Properties" window. The properties of the attributes can bee configured with the
"Properties" dialog.

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Current language
Displays the language for which the attribute was designed.

Attribute Name
Displays the attribute names under which the attribute is registered in WinCC. The "OLE
Automation Name" must be unique. A change of the attribute name affects all languages
configured for the attribute.

Name of Property
Property names with which the attribute is displayed in the "Object Properties" window.

Prerequisites
The "Properties" tab in the "Configuration Dialog Customized object" must be open for the
selected customized object.

Procedure
1. Select the attribute of the customized object whose properties you want to configure in the
"Selected Properties" area.
2. Select "Properties..." in the pop-up menu of the selected attribute.
Opens the "Properties" dialog.
3. Change the settings and confirm your input with "OK".

See also
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
Events of a customized object (Page632)

Linking a Customized Object with a Structure Tag

Introduction
Customized object may be linked with a structure tag with an open tag dialog in Graphics
Designer simply by using Drag&Drop. Using the object properties of two text fields, structure
type and unique identification of the object are characterized using the structure tag.

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Prerequisites
A structure type and at least one structure tag must be configured.
In the customized object, you have added two objects "Static Text" with the property "Text"
in "Selected Properties" to "UserDefined2".
In Graphics Designer, the tag dialog must be open. Using the menu "View/Toolbars..." you
activate the tag dialog.

Procedure
1. In "Configuration Dialog Customized Object" in the area "Selected Properties", select one
of the static texts for the Customized Object.
2. In the dialog "Properties" for "Attribute Name", enter the name "StructureType".
3. In "Configuration Dialog Customized Object" in the area "Selected Properties", select the
second static text for the Customized Object.
4. In the dialog "Properties" for "Attribute Name", enter the name "tagname".
5. Confirm your settings with "OK".
6. In the "Object Properties" dialog of the Customized Object, enter under attribute
"StructureType" the name of the structure type as text.
7. Dynamize the desired properties with an element of a valid structure tag.
8. If you now select the Customized Object, the open tag dialog will only display the available
tags of the assigned structure type.
9. Using Drag&Drop, you connect the desired structure tag from the tag dialog with the
customized object. The structure tag is entered into the object property "tagname".
Duplicate customized object may be assigned a tag of the same structure type using
Drag&Drop.

See also
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Configuration on a Customized Object (Page621)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)

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Events of a customized object

Introduction
The events available for the customized object are configured with the "Events" tab. It is also
possible to make "Object Events" available for the included single objects.

Selected Events
This area contains the event groups "Mouse", "Keyboard", "Focus", "Miscellaneous" and
"Object Events". The events designed for the customized object are assigned to these event
groups. All events that are designed for the single objects in the customized object are assigned
to the "Object Events" event group.
Click the "+" or "-" symbols to show or hide subordinate entries.

Objects
This area contains all objects included in the customized object.
Select an object for which you want to show the available events in the "Properties" area.

Event
This area contains all available events for the object selected in the "Objects" area.
Double-click the desired event to insert it into the assigned position in the "Selected Events"
area.

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See also
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)

How to configure the events of a customized object

Introduction
The events available for the customized object are configured with the "Events" tab. It is also
possible to make "Object Events" available for the included single objects.

Prerequisites
Select a customized object.
Open the "Configuration Dialog Customized object" from the pop-up menu and select the
"Events" tab.

Adding events
1. In the "Objects" area, select an object for which you want to configure an event in the
customized object.
The events available for the selected object are displayed in the "Events" area.
2. Double-click the desired event in the area "Properties".
The selected event is inserted into the respective event group in the "Selected Events"
area. The event name is extended by the object name of the object.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until all desired events are in the "Selected Events" area.
4. Confirm your configuration with "OK".
Alternatively you can drag events to the desired position in the "Selected events" area with the
mouse.
Note
The events configured for the customized object are automatically assigned to the associated
event group. The default assignments cannot be changed.

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Deleting events
1. Select the event of the customized object that you want to delete in the "Selected Events"
area.
2. Select "Delete" in the pop-up menu of the selected event.
The selected event is removed from the selection.

See also
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)
Events of a customized object (Page632)

How to edit a customized object

Introduction
The edit mode for the customized object is activated with the "Customized object / Edit ..."
function. In edit mode the properties of all included single objects can be separately changed.
Single objects can be added or deleted. A single object contained in a customized object is
edited as described in "Working with objects".
The selection marks of the single objects are shown as gray squares with a white border in
edit mode. When edit mode is exited, only the selected objects are imported into the
customized object.

Prerequisites
Select a customized object.

Activating edit mode

1. Open the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu.
2. Select "Customized object / Edit...".
The Edit mode will be activated.
Like multiple selection of objects, selection marks for the single objects contained in the
customized object are shown. The selection marks are shown as gray squares with a white
border in edit mode.

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Exit edit mode

1. Open the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu.
2. Select "Customized object / Exit edit".
Edit mode is deactivated.
When edit mode is exited, only the selected objects are imported into the customized object.
If no object is selected, the customized object is discarded.

See also
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Configuration on a Customized Object (Page621)
Working with Objects (Page378)
How to delete a customized object (Page635)
How to create a customized object (Page620)

How to delete a customized object

Introduction
A customized object can be split into its component objects with the command "Customized
Object / Delete" in the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu. The individual objects are then shown
as a multiple selection.

Prerequisites
Select a customized object.

Procedure
1. Open the pop-up menu or the "Edit" menu.
2. Select "Customized Object / Delete".
The selection marks of the customized object are hidden.
The individual objects of the customized object are shown as a multiple selection.

See also
How to create a customized object (Page620)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page386)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page232)
Working with Customized Objects (Page618)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)

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Example: How to create a compressor as a customized object

Introduction
A customized object that can be used to display a compressor is to be prepared for a system
design. Only specific properties should be configurable to allow multiple use of the
"Compressor" customized object in the design.
The "Compressor" customized object should have the check-back messages "On", "Off",
"Approach" and "Retract". The "On" and "Off" states must be visualized by a change in a
background color. The "Approach" and "Retract" states must be displayed by flashing lines.
The following example implements this task step-by-step.

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Procedure
1. Create a graphic to show the compressor.

The compressor is created from the following standard objects: 2 circles, 3 lines and a static
text.
2. Select all objects from which the customized object must be created.
Select "Customized Object / Create..." in the multiple selection context menu.

The "Configuration Dialog Customized object" dialog opens.

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3. The "Configuration Dialog Customized Object" shows all the single objects contained in the
customized object with their properties and events.
Select the "Properties" tag.

In this example the "UserDefined2" property group is used to define the desired properties
and events of the customized object.

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4. Select "Rename" in the pop-up menu of the "UserDefined2" property group.

In this example the term "Settings" is entered as the new name of the "UserDefined2"
property group.

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5. The "On" and "Off" states must be visualized by changing the background color of
Circle1:
Select the object "Circle1".
Drag the "Background color" property by Drag&Drop to the "Settings" property group.

The customized object now has the "Circle1.Background Color" attribute in the "Settings /
Background Color" property group.
6. Select "Properties..." in the pop-up menu of the attribute "Circle1.Background color".
Opens the "Properties" dialog.

Enter a name for the dynamics of the attribute by C or VBS actions in the "Attribute Name"
field. The "Name of Property" field contains the exact name of the attribute for the display
in the "Object Properties" window and can also be changed.

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7. The "Approach" and "Retract" states must be displayed by flashing lines:
The line colors of all objects, which flashing is to be configured for, can be combined into
an attribute of the customized object.
Select the desired objects in sequence and drag the property "Line Color" via Drag&Drop
into the property group ""Settings".

The customized object now has the "Object.Line Color" attributes in the "Settings / Line
Color" property group.

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8. Repeat this process for all attributes that the customized object requires.

In this example the attributes "Flashing Line Color On", "Flashing Line Color Off" and
"Flashing Line Active" are added to various single objects.

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9. Select the "Events" tab to configure the required events for the customized object.

In this example only the "Mouse Action" event is configured.

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10.Select the event "Mouse".
Select the "CustomizedObject1" object that is to respond to the desired event. If the event
is to be configured for a contained single object, select the single object only.
Double-click the event "Mouse click".

The customized object now has the "CustomizedObject1.Mouse Action" event in the
"Mouse" event group.
Add more events in the same manner.

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11.The customized object should have the name "myCompressor":
Select the "Properties" tab.
Enter the name "myComprssor" in the field "Object type".
Click the entry "Customized Object" in the "Selected Properties" area to accept the name.

Confirm the configuration with "OK" to finish creating the "myCompressor" customized
object.
The configuration dialog "Configuration Dialog Customized object" will be closed.
12.Select the new customized object in your process picture.
Open the window "Object Properties" to check the configuration of the customized object.

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The "Settings" property group only shows the properties and events that you defined in the
"Configuration Dialog Customized Object".

See also
How to create a customized object (Page620)
How to configure the property groups of the customized object (Page625)
How to add and delete attributes of a customized object (Page628)
How to configure the properties of attributes of the customized object (Page629)
How to configure the events of a customized object (Page633)
How to edit a customized object (Page634)
How to delete a customized object (Page635)
Configuration on a Customized Object (Page621)
Events of a customized object (Page632)
Properties of a Customized Object (Page623)

3.8.7.4

Working with the library

Working with the library

Introduction
The library of the Graphics Designer is versatile tool for saving and managing graphic objects
that can be used for creating process pictures. It is divided into two areas:

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Global Library
The "Global Library" offers a variety of prefinished graphic objects that are inserted into a
picture as library objects and can be configured as required. Sorted by subject in the form of
a folder tree, graphic views of machine and system parts, instruments, control elements and
buildings can be provided.
The "Global Library" can be extended with user-defined objects to make them available for
other projects. However, these objects must not be linked with dynamics, to prevent errors
when embedding them in other projects.

Project Library
The "Project Library" enables a project-specific library to be built. The objects can sorted by
subjects by creating folders and subfolders.
User-defined objects can be stored here as copies and made available for multiple use.
Because the Project Library is only available for the current project, dynamic objects should
only be included in this library. The names of user-defined objects inserted into the library can
be freely selected.

Opening library
The Graphics Designer library can be shown or hidden with the "Library" command in the
"View" menu or via the icon
. The structure and functions of the library are similar to the
Windows Explorer. The display of the library objects can be configured with the elements of
the toolbar.

Backup library objects

The project library is only available for the current project. If it has been extended with userdefined objects, the project library should be backed up.
In WinCC the library objects are stored in different folder paths:

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All information on the global library is by default saved in the "\aplib" subfolder of the WinCC
installation folder.
Objects of the project library as components of the current project are stored in the "\library"
subfolder of the
To be able to use the user-defined configurations of the project library in other projects, the
contents of the relevant folder must be copied to the relevant folder of the target project. It is
also recommended that you create a backup copy of the "\library" folder and update it regularly.

Types of library objects

Two different object types are used as library objects in the global library. Accordingly a library
object that has been inserted into a picture is changed in various configuration dialogs:

Customized Objects
The folders "System Modules", "Displays", "Operation" and "Symbols" contain prefinished
customized objects.
If such a library object is inserted into a picture, changes can be executed in the window "Object
properties" and in the configuration dialog "Customized Object". Both dialogs can be opened
from the pop-up menu of the inserted object.

Controls
The "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" folder contains a comprehensive symbol library, whose
elements can also be inserted in a picture as controls.
If such a library object is inserted into a picture, changes can be executed in the window "Object
properties" and in the dialog "Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library". The window "Object
Properties" is opened from the pop-up menu of the inserted object. The "Properties of Siemens
HMI Symbol Library" dialog can only be opened by double-clicking on the inserted object.

See also
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder (Page655)
How to import objects into the library (Page653)
How to convert library objects (Page652)
How to import library objects into a picture (Page650)
The Library Toolbar (Page649)

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The Library Toolbar

Introduction
You can make the following settings with the tools in the toolbar of the "Library" dialog:
Folders for sorting library objects by subject can be created and deleted in the library.
Library objects can be copied, moved and deleted or added to the current picture.
The library can be extended with user-defined objects.
The display of the library objects can be configured.

Overview
Icon

Name

Function

New subfolder Creates a new subfolder in the selected folder.

Folders can be renamed or deleted from their pop-up menu.

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Cut

The "Cut" command is used to copy a selected library object to the

operating system clipboard. The library object is removed from the
library.

Copying

The "Copy" command is used to copy a selected library object to the

operating system clipboard. The library object itself is not changed.

Paste

The "Paste" command can be used to add the current contents of the
clipboard to the selected library folder as often as desired.

Deleting

The "Delete" command removes a selected library object from the

current library folder.

Giant Icons

The "Giant Icons" command shows the library objects in the current
folder as large symbols.
No detailed information is shown except for the name of the
object.
If the preview is activated, the symbol for the picture contents of the
library object is used.

Large Icons

The "Large Icons" command shows the library objects in the current
folder as medium-sized symbols.
No detailed information is shown except for the name of the
object.
If the preview is activated, the symbol for the picture contents of the
library object is used.

Small Icons

The "Small Icons" command shows the library objects in the current
folder as a list with small symbols.
No detailed information is shown except for the name of the
object.
If the preview is activated, the symbol for the picture contents of the
library object is used.

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Icon

Name

Function

List

The "List" command shows the library objects in the current folder as
a list with small symbols.
Besides the name of the object, the file size and the date of the last
modification are displayed as detailed information.
If the preview is activated, the symbol for the picture contents of the
library object is used.

Preview

The picture contents of the library objects are used for the symbolic
display of the library object.
If the preview is not activated, a default symbol is shown.

See also
Working with the library (Page646)
"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder (Page655)
How to import objects into the library (Page653)
How to convert library objects (Page652)
How to import library objects into a picture (Page650)
The Library Toolbar (Page649)

How to import library objects into a picture

Introduction
Library objects can be added to a picture by dragging them with the mouse or by using the
operating system clipboard.
When a library object is added to a picture, the object name is by default a combination of the
name of the object type and a sequential number. This name can be changed with the "Object
name" attribute in the "Object Properties" window.

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Requirements
A picture must be opened.

Procedure
1. In the default toolbar of the Graphics Designer click the icon
The "Library" dialog will open.

2. Select a subfolder of the global library or the project library in the left section of the
dialog.
The library objects in this subfolder are shown in the right section of the dialog.
3. Select a library object and drag it with the mouse to the desired position in the
picture.
When you release the mouse button, the insertion procedure is finished.

Alternative Procedure
1. In the default toolbar of the Graphics Designer click the icon
The "Library" dialog will open.

2. Select a subfolder of the global library or the project library in the left section of the
dialog.
The library objects in this subfolder are shown in the right section of the dialog.
3. Select the desired library object.
4. In the toolbar of the "Library" dialog, click
.
The library object will be copied to the clipboard of the operating system.
5. In the default toolbar of the Graphics Designer click the icon .
The library object will be inserted into the current picture from the clipboard.

See also
How to convert library objects (Page652)
How to import objects into the library (Page653)
How to Rename Objects (Page383)
The Library Toolbar (Page649)
"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder (Page655)
Working with the library (Page646)

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How to convert library objects

Introduction
Library objects that were created in an older version of WinCC can be converted to the current
format for continuing use. The commands for converting the libraries are opened from the popup menu of the "Graphics Designer" entry in the WinCC Explorer navigation window.
The conversion can be only run completely for the Global Library or the Project Library.
Individual library objects cannot be selected.

NOTICE
The conversion starts immediately, as soon as you have selected the entry. No confirmation
prompt appears.
Conversion of the libraries cannot be undone.

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Requirements
A project must be opened.

Procedure
1. Right-click the entry "Graphics Designer".
The pop-up menu will be opened.
2. Select the entry "Convert global library" or "Convert project library" from the pop-up
menu.
The procedure may take some time, depending on the number and file size of the included
library objects.

See also
How to import library objects into a picture (Page650)
How to import objects into the library (Page653)
The Library Toolbar (Page649)
The shortcut menu in the Navigation window (Page212)
"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder (Page655)
Working with the library (Page646)

How to import objects into the library

Introduction
The objects in a picture can be added to the library by dragging them with the mouse or by
using the operating system clipboard. The objects can sorted by subjects by creating folders
and subfolders. A new name can be assigned to the imported library object to simplify later
use.
The "Global Library" can be extended with user-defined objects to make them available for
other projects. These objects must not be linked with dynamics, to prevent errors when
embedding them in other projects.
Because the Project Library is only available for the current project, dynamic objects can also
be included in this library.

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Requirements
A picture must be opened.

Procedure
1. In the default toolbar of the Graphics Designer click the icon
The "Library" dialog will open.

2. Select or create a subfolder of the global library or the project library in the left section of
the dialog.
The library objects in this subfolder are shown in the right section of the dialog.
3. Select the object that you want to add to the selected folder in the active picture.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the selected object into the library folder.
When you release the mouse button, the check box insertion is finished.
5. If you want to assign a name for later use to the new library object, select "Rename" in the
pop-up menu of the new library object.
The name of the library object will become editable.
6. Enter the new name and confirm this by pressing <ENTER>.

Alternative Procedure
1. In the default toolbar of the Graphics Designer click the icon
The "Library" dialog will open.

2. Select or create a subfolder of the global library or the project library in the left section of
the dialog.
The library objects in this subfolder are shown in the right section of the dialog.
3. Select the object that you want to add to the selected folder in the active picture.
4. In the standard toolbar of the Graphics Designer, click
.
The selected object will be copied to the clipboard of the operating system.

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5. In the toolbar of the "Library" dialog, click
.
The new library object will be inserted into the selected library folder from the clipboard of
the operating system.
6. If you want to assign a name for later use to the new library object, select "Rename" in the
pop-up menu of the new library object.
The name of the library object will become editable.
7. Enter the new name and confirm this by pressing <ENTER>.

See also
How to import library objects into a picture (Page650)
How to convert library objects (Page652)
The Library Toolbar (Page649)
"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder (Page655)
Working with the library (Page646)

"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder

Introduction
The global library contains a comprehensive symbol library in the "Siemens HMI Symbol
Library" folder. It contains different objects from the other library objects.
The objects of this library area are provided by a control of the same name and can also be
added to a picture as a control from the object palette.

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An object of this type is changed in the "Properties of the Siemens HMI Symbol Library"
configuration dialog, which can only be opened by double-clicking on the inserted object.
The detailed description of the "Siemens HMI Symbol Library" is in the chapter "Working with
Controls".

See also
How to import objects into the library (Page653)
How to convert library objects (Page652)
How to import library objects into a picture (Page650)
Working with Controls (Page319)
Working with Combined Objects (Page613)
The Library Toolbar (Page649)
Working with the library (Page646)

3.9

Process Pictures in Runtime

3.9.1

Testing Process Pictures in Runtime

Introduction
The behavior of process pictures, which were created and dynamized in Graphics Designer,
can be tested in Runtime. Some object properties, such as the rotation or flashing of an object,
can only be displayed in Runtime.
In this chapter, you will learn
activate and deactivate Runtime
test changes to a picture in directly Runtime
modify the settings for the execution of Runtime
configure mouseless operation for Runtime

See also
Activating Project (Page132)
How to activate / deactivate Runtime (Page657)
How to test the active picture in Runtime (Page658)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)

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3.9.2

How to activate / deactivate Runtime

Introduction
Runtime can be activated from WinCC Explorer or Graphics Designer. If it is called in WinCC
Explorer, Runtime will start with the predefined start picture. If it is started from Graphics
Designer, the active picture will be opened in Runtime. Runtime can only be deactivated from
WinCC Explorer.

Requirements
A project must be opened.
The local computer's name must be entered as the computer name in the project.
A process picture, which is found in the project, must be defined as the start picture.
Changes in a picture can only be displayed in Runtime, when the picture was saved before
Runtime was activated.

Activating Runtime
Runtime is executed in the "WinCC-Runtime" program window. The "Runtime" command is
used to load additional program modules, which are required for the execution of Runtime.

WinCC Explorer
Click this button in the toolbar to open Runtime with the predefined start picture.
As an alternative, you can select "Activate" in the "File" menu. When Runtime is activated this
will be indicated by a tick in front of the entry "Activate".

Graphics Designer
Click this button in the default toolbar to open Runtime with the active picture.
As an alternative, you can select "Runtime" in the "File" menu.

Deactivate Runtime
Runtime can only be deactivated from WinCC Explorer.
Click this button in the toolbar to deactivate Runtime.
The modules for the execution of Runtime are deactivated. The "WinCC-Runtime" program
window will be closed.
As an alternative, you can select "Activate" in the "File" menu. The tick in front of the entry
"Activate" will be removed.

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See also
How to test the active picture in Runtime (Page658)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Testing Process Pictures in Runtime (Page656)

3.9.3

How to test the active picture in Runtime

Introduction
The behavior of process pictures, which were created and dynamized in Graphics Designer,
can be tested in Runtime. Furthermore, changes made to the configuration of a picture can
be checked directly in Runtime.

Requirements
Runtime must be activated.
To start Runtime directly with the active picture, it must be activated from Graphics Designer.
To test - in Runtime - the changes made, the active picture must first be saved.

Procedure
1. Open the picture that you want to change.
2. Change the desired Properties and Events.
3. In the standard toolbar, click the button
.
The active picture is saved with the changes applied.
4. In the standard toolbar, click the button
.
The active picture is activated in Runtime and can be tested in the program window "WinCCRuntime".
5. Repeat steps 2 - 4 to make further changes.

See also
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Testing Process Pictures in Runtime (Page656)
Working with Objects (Page378)
How to activate / deactivate Runtime (Page657)

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3.9.4

Menus and Toolbars

3.9.4.1

User-defined menus and toolbars

Introduction
In the "Menus and Toolbars" editor you can configure customized menus and toolbars. The
customized menus and tool bars can be displayed in the basic picture of a project and also in
the picture windows. You connect menu items and symbols using procedures from Global
Script VBS.

Usage
You used customized menus and tootbars, for e.g. to implement a picture navigation. The
customized menus and toolbars are displayed in the basic picture of the project. You can thus
shift from any picture to the pictures that you have configured the picture change using menu
commands and symbols.

Principle
You save the customized menus and toolbars in configuration files. For each configuration file
you can save one menu and any number of toolbars you want. You can indicate a configuration
file as "Start Configuration" in the "Computer Properties":

Configure a file in the "Menu/Toolbar configuration" attribute in the picture window.

Note
Customized menus and toolbars in the WebNavigator
If you have indicated a configuration file in the "Start Configuration", the customized menus
and toolbars are also displayed in the WebNavigator.

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Configuration Options for Customized Menus and Toolbars

Operator authorization
You can assign authorizations to customized menus and toolbars and their elements. The
elements are automatically disabled if a logged in user does not have the required
authorization.

Inactive or invisible elements

Further, you can disable or hide customized menus and toolbars and their elements. You can
also exchange the configuration file, for e.g. in case of user change during runtime, if you save
the modified functional scope in a new configuration file.

Language-dependent configuring
In the "Menus and Toolbars" editor you can configure language-dependent texts for menus
and toolbars. For this, switch to the language in the Menus and Toolbars editor. Then re-enter
the language-dependent texts.

Connect menu command or icon to procedure

Use the following syntax to connect a procedure from the global script to a menu item or icon:
Sub <Procedurename> (ByVal Item)
Tag declarations
'Instructions
End Sub
The transfer parameter "Item" shows the object that the user has clicked. Use the "User data"
field in the "Menus and Toolbars" editor to apply a parameter to the procedure
The following example shows the "ActivateScreen" procedure that executes the picture
change. Enter the picture name in the "User Data" field:
Sub ActivateScreen (ByVal Item)
Dim objScreen
Dim strScreenName
' "UserData" contains the screen name specified
' in editor menus and toolbars.
strScreenName = Item.Userdata
HMIRuntime.BaseScreenName = strScreenName
End Sub

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Change Customized Menus or Toolbars at Runtime

You can dynamize the "Menu/Toolbar configuration" attribute in a picture window. There is
also the possibility of changing the configuration of the basic picture and the picture window
with VBS.
The following example shows a procedure that applied the configuration file to be loaded as
parameter.
Sub ChangeMenuToolbarConfigFile (ByVal strMTConfigFile)
HMIRuntime.MenuToolBarConfig = strMTConfigFile
End Sub
Note
Updating Changed Configuration in Runtime
A changed VB script that is connected with "Menus and toolbars" is only updated after
Runtime is restarted.
If you change the properties of "Menus and toolbars" in Runtime, the changes are only applied
in the following cases:
After a picture change, if the configuration change does not affect the basic picture.
When you load another configuration file and reload the modified configuration file.

3.9.4.2

How to Create a Menu

Introduction
In each picture, a menu is placed at the top margin. You can configure one menu bar for each
configuration file.

Menu structure
The configuration options for a menu element depend on the position where the menu is
located in the menu structure.
The following picture shows a typical menu structure with different menu elements:

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The following table explains the function of the menu elements shown in the picture:
Menu element

Function

MainMenu

Represents a menu bar.

Clean

Displays a menu item. You can add menu commands, separators or other menu
items (as sub-menus) in a menu item.

Sort

Represents a menu command. Assign a procedure that is run when you click
on the menu command to a menu command. You can enter a parameter (for
e.g. picture frame) that is to be transferred to the procedure under "User Data".

Requirement
The menu structure is yet to be planned.
The Menus and Toolbars editor is open.
The tab "Menus" is displayed

Procedure
1. Add the required number of menu elements.
2. Assign the menu elements to the desired hierarchy levels.
3. Enter a Name and a Text for each menu element.
4. For each menu element, select a procedure that is run while clicking a menu element. Enter,
if required, a transfer parameter for the procedure under "User data".
5. Define, if required, for each element whether it is "visible" or "active" during runtime and
whether an authorization to operate is necessary.
6. While configuring a multi-lingual user interface, select the desired target language and enter
the Texts for the menu elements.
7. Select "File > Save" to save the configuration.
Select "File > Save As" to save the configuration under a new name.

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Results
The following picture shows the menu structure with a configured menu "Clean":

The following picture shows the menu at runtime:

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Changing Configuration
1. Select the "File > Open" command to load a configuration file.
2. Change the menu elements.
3. Save the configuration.

3.9.4.3

How to Create a Toolbar

Introduction
You can configure any number of tools for each configuration file. For each toolbar you can
define the placement position of the toolbar in the picture. Further, you can also define whether
the user should have the option of freely placing the toolbar.

Requirement
The toolbar structure is yet to be planned.
The Menus and Toolbars editor is opened.
The tab "Toolbars" is displayed.

Procedure
1. To add a new toolbar, select the "Edit > Add Toolbar" command.
2. Enter a Name and a Text for each toolbar.
3. Select an "Alignment" and the "Mode" and define the "Masking color", if required.
4. Define, if required, whether the toolbar is "visible or "active" during runtime and whether an
authorization is required for operation.
5. To add a new icon to the toolbar, select the "Edit > Add Toolbar element" command.

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6. Configuring the icon:
Depending on the toolbar configuration, enter a text for the icon and/or select a picture.
If required, also enter a tooltip text that is to be displayed at runtime as help for the icon.
For the icon, select the procedure that is to be run when the icon is clicked. Under "User
data" enter a transfer parameter for the procedure.
Define, if required, whether the icon is "visible or "active" during runtime and whether
an authorization is required for operation.
7. Select "File > Save" to save the configuration.
Select "File > Save As" to save the configuration under a new name.

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Results
The following picture shows a toolbar with three icons that are labeled with a text.

The following picture shows the toolbar at runtime:

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3.9.4.4

How to configure menus and toolbars in a picture

Introduction
For each project you can save a configuration file with configured menus and toolbars. The
customized menus and toolbars are displayed in each basic picture at the configured position.
You can use VBScript to load other configuration files at runtime. You can e.g. load different
configuration files depending on the selected picture or from users that are logged in.

Procedure
1. Click the Computer component in the navigation window of the WinCC Explorer.
WinCC displays the list of computers in the data window.
2. Select the computer and then click the Properties command in the pop-up menu.
The "Computer properties" dialog will open.
3. Click "Search" in the "Start configuration menu and toolbars" area of "Graphics Runtime"
tab.
4. Select the configuration file in the file selection dialog.
5. Click "OK" to close all dialogs.

Results
When you activate a project, all customized menus and toolbars will be displayed in the basic
picture of the project.

3.9.4.5

How to configure menus and toolbars in a picture window

Introduction
Independent of the start configuration, you can load, in a picture window, an additional
configuration file with user-defined menus and toolbars.

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The customized menus and toolbars of the picture window and the start configuration can thus
be displayed in the picture window.
Note
The "Configuration of menu/toolbars" attribute can be made dynamic using the
"MenuToolBarConfig" name.

Requirements
The picture is opened.
Picture window can be configured.

Procedure
1. Open the object properties of the configured picture window.
2. Select the "Others" property group.
3. Double-click the "Configuration of menu/toolbars" attribute and select the desired
configuration file in the file selection dialog.

Results
The customized menus and toolbars are displayed in the picture window during runtime.

3.9.4.6

Control elements of the "Menus and Toolbars" editor

Common features
The toolbars, menus and their elements have the following properties:

668

Properties

Function

Explanation

Name

Defines the name of the element.

Use the internal name to uniquely

identify the element.

Text

Defines the text that is displayed in the

menu or toolbar.

The text is language-dependent.

Active

defines whether the element is active

(enabled).

Visible

defines whether the element is visible

Use these settings if you have

already configured the structure of
the menus and toolbars; however,
not all elements are capable of
functioning.

Authorization

Defines the authorization required to

operate the element at runtime.

The element is disabled

automatically when the logged-in
user does not have the
authorization.

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Properties of Menus and Toolbars

The following properties are available only for menus and toolbars:
Properties

Function

Explanation

Fixed (only toolbar)

Determines whether the toolbar is fixed

If the toolbar is not fixed, the user

can move it to any margin of the
window (docked) or it can also be
displayed as a separate window
("floating").

Alignment (only
toolbar)

Defines the toolbar position.

Possible positions are:

Mode (only toolbar)

Defines the display type for the element

in the toolbar.

Possible display types are:

Picture size

Defines the picture size in pixels for the

icon.

The selected picture is automatically

scaled to the defined picture size.

Masking Color

Indicates which icon color is to be

replaced by the background color of the
menu or toolbar.

Use the masking color if you use, for

e.g. round, symbols.

Top, right, left or bottom

Text, picture or text+picture

Properties of menu items and icons

The following properties are available only for menu items and icons:
Properties

Function

Explanation

Tooltip text (only

toolbar)

Defines the help text for the icon.

The help text is displayed if the user

points with the mouse on the icon.

Separator

Configuring the element as separator.

Use separators to optically

demarcate the function groups from
each other.

User Data

Contains the value that is transferred

during procedure call.

You can enter, for e.g. the picture

name that is transferred to the
procedure as parameter.

Script

Defines the procedure that is run when

the element is clicked.

Use "..." to open a selection dialog.

Use "R" to remove the procedure.

Picture

Defines the icon displayed for the

element.

Use "..." to open a selection dialog

where you can select a picture.

Commands for Changing the Structure of Menus and Toolbars

Command

Icons in the
Toolbar

Function

Paste Element

Adds a new menu item under the selected menu

item.

Add toolbar

Adds a new toolbar.

Add icon

Adds a new icon to the selected toolbar.

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Command

3.9.4.7

Icons in the
Toolbar

Function

Delete object

Deletes the selected object.

Moves Object Up

Moves up an element within a layer.

Move Object Down

Moves down an element within a layer.

Move Object Left

Moves a menu item to one higher layer.

Move Object Right

Moves a menu item to one lower layer.

Reduce

Closes the highlighted part of the tree when the

tree part has been opened.

Expand

Opens the highlighted part of the tree when the

tree part is closed.

How to define the font for the various languages

Introduction
You can define the font and text size for the menus and toolbars for each language individually.

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Requirements
The WinCC Explorer is open.

Procedure
1. Select item "Font settings" command from the "Menus and Toolbars" context menu.
The "Font settings" dialog opens.

2. Select the language for which you want to define a font.

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3. Click on "Font".
The "Font" dialog box will open.

4. Select the font and text size.

5. Click "OK".
The changes that have been made are shown in the "Font settings" dialog.

6. Repeat steps 2 to 5 for all languages for which you want to define the font.

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3.9.5

Virtual keyboard

3.9.5.1

Virtual keyboard - General Information

Introduction
The virtual keyboard is a virtual keyboard on the screen of the operator device, which is
generally a Panel PC with a touchscreen, since these do not have a built-in keyboard. The
operator can click the keys shown on the screen to e.g. fill in an entry field.

Properties of the virtual keyboard

The virtual keyboard has keys for entering numerical or alphanumeric characters.
The key labels shown on the virtual keyboard are set to agree with the Regional Settings
in the Windows Control Panel. In other words, an English keyboard will not have any special
characters for German or French. The layout of the letters on the keyboard is also in part
different. If several keyboard layouts have been installed, you can click the "Regional
Settings" button, here

, to change the keyboard layout.

The illustration shows a German virtual keyboard for entering alphanumeric values.

Activating the virtual keyboard

The virtual keyboard can be either displayed automatically for an input or activated by the
operator when needed by pressing a key. The virtual keyboard can only be hidden using the
"X" button in the virtual keyboard's title bar or by clicking on a place outside of an entry field.

Virtual keyboard - position on screen

The default position of the virtual keyboard is at the lower edge of the screen. The virtual
keyboard can be positioned on the screen and minimized like any other window, but cannot
be maximized to a full-screen setting.

See also
How to configure the activation of the virtual keyboard (Page674)
How to operate the virtual keyboard (Page675)

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3.9.5.2

How to configure the activation of the virtual keyboard

Introduction
The behavior of the virtual keyboard can be configured as follows:
The virtual keyboard will be displayed automatically for an entry and then hidden once the
entry is finished.
The virtual keyboard can be displayed manually when the operator presses a key. The
virtual keyboard can only be hidden using a button in its title bar.

Display virtual keyboard automatically for input

The virtual keyboard will always be shown in Runtime as soon as the operator has selected
an entry field. Once the entry has been completed, the keyboard will be automatically hidden
again.

Procedure
1. In WinCC Explorer double-click "Computer" and then right click in the project window on
the right to open the pop-up menu with the properties of the computer.
2. On the "Runtime" tab, use the check box "Virtual keyboard".

Press a key to display the virtual keyboard

In this configuration, the operator can call up the virtual keyboard and use it not only for making
entries in WinCC, but also in other applications such as Excel.
Connect the action to start the virtual keyboard to a button. If the operator clicks on the button
in Runtime, the virtual keyboard will remain on the screen even after a switching to another
application or exiting from WinCC. To close it, the operator must use the button in the virtual
keyboard's title bar.

Prerequisite
Start the Graphics Designer and open a picture.

Procedure
1. Configure a button by dragging the Windows "Button" object from the Object palette into
the picture. Label the button in the Configuration dialog with the appropriate text.
2. On the Dynamic Wizard's "System Functions" tab, double-click the "Start other applications"
function. The configured button must be selected in the picture while you perform the above
step.
3. In the Wizard select a trigger, e.g. a mouse action, which will be used to start the virtual
keyboard.

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4.

To select the application to start the virtual keyboard, click the button
dialog opens.

. The file selection

5. Select the path in which WinCC is installed. In this path open the "Common/PTTouchInput"
directory and then start the application "TouchInputPC.exe".
6. Exit from the Wizard and save the picture.
The operator can use this button to display the virtual keyboard permanently. To close it, the
operator must use the button in the virtual keyboard's title bar.

See also
How to operate the virtual keyboard (Page675)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)

3.9.5.3

How to operate the virtual keyboard

Entering alphanumeric values

To enter character strings and numeric values in hexadecimal format, WinCC will automatically
display an alphanumeric virtual keyboard in Runtime, as soon as you
have selected an entry field,
double-clicked a cell in a WinCC Online Table Control in Editing mode or
double-clicked a table element in a WinCC User Archive Table Control.
Once the entry has been completed, the keyboard will be automatically hidden again.

Keyboard levels
The alphanumeric virtual keyboard has several levels:
the normal level
the shifted level for entering uppercase and special characters
the Alt Gr level for entering special characters
the function key level for accessing the function keys F1 to F12

Alphanumeric values can be entered character by character using the virtual keyboard's
buttons. Click on the Enter key to confirm the value entered; with "ESC", you can cancel your
entry. In both cases, the virtual keyboard will be closed.

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Note
Click the button

twice to activate the taskbar.

Entering numerical values

To enter numerical values, click the "Num" button to display the numeric virtual keyboard. Once
the entry has been completed, the keyboard will be automatically hidden again.

Numeric values can be entered character by character using the virtual keyboard's buttons.
Click on the Enter key to confirm the value entered; with "ESC", you can cancel your entry. In
both cases, the virtual keyboard will be closed.

Disable keys and key combinations

The following key combinations and keys can also be disabled for the virtual keyboard in
WinCC:
CTRL+ALT+DEL
CTRL+ESC
CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
ALT+TAB
Windows Buttons
1. In WinCC Explorer double-click "Computer" and then right click in the project window on
the right to open the pop-up menu with the properties of the computer.
2. On the "Parameters" tab, activate the check box "CTRL+AL+DEL" in "Disable Keys". This
will disable all of the key-combinations described above and the keys on the virtual
keyboard.

See also
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)

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3.9.6

Setting up Mouseless Operation of a Picture

3.9.6.1

How to set up a picture for mouseless operation

Introduction
Objects such as buttons or I/O fields must be operated in Runtime to influence the process.
To ensure convenient operation and that all necessary entries are made, you can configure
the operation via the keyboard. In this case, the process of entering the data is simplified, since
the cursor will jump from one object to the next as the operator makes the required entries.

Operable objects
The objects must be enabled for operation and the operator must be granted the required
permission. Set the Operator-Control Enable and the Authorization for each object. Click on
the object and select the object properties on the "Properties" tab. In the "Miscellaneous"
property group, you can set the Operator-Control Enable and the Authorization.

Mouseless operation
There are two types of mouseless operation.
"Alpha cursor"
The user jumps only to those objects in Runtime, into which values can be entered. These
objects are the I/O Field and the TextList.
"Tab Order"
Depending on the setting, the user jumps only to those objects, into which values can be
entered.
The cursor mode can be changed in Runtime, but must be specified before starting Runtime.
The cursor mode is set in the picture's object properties. To accomplish this, click a free area
in the picture and select the "Properties" tab in the object settings. The value of "Cursor Mode"
attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group can be set to either "Alpha Cursor" or "Tab
Order cursor".

Combining the alpha and tab order cursors in a picture

The cursor mode can be switched in Runtime, if a hotkey has been assigned for this purpose,
see the chapter entitled "Hotkeys for operation and screen navigation". With this hotkey, the
operator can then toggle back and forth between using the alpha or tab order cursor in Runtime.
In this case, the tab sequence must be set for both types of cursor.

Jump from one object to the next in Runtime

The tab sequence is used to set the order in which objects are operated in Runtime. By default,
the cursor is moved in operation with the <TAB> key (or <SHIFT+TAB> for the reverse order).
You can also configure the operation to use shortcuts or the mouse. It is also possible to define
hotkeys. For more information on this topic, please see the chapter entitled "Setting up
Runtime".

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See also
Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence (Page678)
Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence (Page679)
Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence (Page681)
Removing Objects from the Tab Sequence (Page682)
Putting Objects Back into the Tab Sequence (Page683)
How to define hotkeys for operation and screen navigation (Page119)
How to Assign Hotkeys in the Project (Page110)
How to configure the cursor control in Runtime (Page124)
How to set up Runtime (Page112)
Virtual keyboard - General Information (Page673)
Testing Process Pictures in Runtime (Page656)

3.9.6.2

Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence

Introduction
The <TAB> key can be used in Runtime to move from one object to another to make entries.
In Runtime, the alpha cursor will only access two object types - I/O field and text list. The order
in which the cursor will move from one object to another in Runtime is set with the TAB
Sequence. When the alpha cursor is selected in Runtime, you can move through the process
picture with the key, the mouse or previously defined hotkeys.
You can display and, if necessary, change the tab sequence. Individual objects can be
removed from or restored to the tab sequence.

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Example: With the configuration in the picture, the cursor will (in Runtime) move to the I/O field
(number 1) first and then to the text list (number 2).

Procedure
1. In the "Edit" menu, "TAB Sequence", "Alpha Cursor" select "Order". All objects of the types
I/O field and text list are given a number in a square (classic design) or a circle (other
designs) in the upper left corner. This number was assigned automatically when the object
was created.
Note: If the "Order" entry is not active, the picture contains no I/O field or text list objects.
2. Beginning with the first one, click all of the objects in the desired tab sequence. The numbers
will be changed accordingly.
If you want to cancel the assignment of the tab sequence and begin again, press the
<SHIFT> key and click the object which should be assigned the number 1. Then release
the <SHIFT> key and click all of the objects in the desired sequence.
3. To conclude the entry, click the work surface.

Requirement for Runtime

The cursor mode for the process picture must be set to "Alpha Cursor". To accomplish this,
click a free area in the picture and select the "Properties" tab in the object settings. The
"Cursor Mode" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group must be assigned the value
"Alpha Cursor".
The objects must be enabled for operation and the operator must be granted the required
permission. Set the operator control enable and the authorization for each object. Click on
the object and select the object properties on the "Properties" tab. In the "Miscellaneous"
property group, you can set the operator control enable and the authorization.

See also
Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence (Page679)
Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence (Page681)
Removing Objects from the Tab Sequence (Page682)
Putting Objects Back into the Tab Sequence (Page683)
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)

3.9.6.3

Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence

Introduction
The <TAB> key can be used in Runtime to move from one object to another to make entries.
Every object can be accessed in Runtime with the tab order cursor. The order in which the
cursor will move from one object to another in Runtime is set with the TAB Sequence. When
the tab order cursor is selected in Runtime, you can move through the process picture with
the key, the mouse or previously defined hotkeys.

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You can display and, if necessary, change the tab sequence. Individual objects can be
removed from or restored to the tab sequence.
First set which types of objects should be operable.

Setting object types

In the "Edit" menu, "TAB Sequence", "Tab Order" select "Settings". Using the "Object Types"
check boxes, you can set the types of objects for which the tab sequence should apply.

Once you have confirmed your selection(s) by clicking on "OK", all of the objects will be
displayed with a tab sequence number in accordance with your settings.

Example: With the settings in the picture, the cursor will first move to the I/O Field (number 1),
then to the TextList (number 2) and then to the bar (number 3) etc. in Runtime.

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Setting the tab order cursor's sequence

1. In the "Edit" menu, "TAB Sequence", "Tab Order" select "Order" All of the objects will be
given a number in the upper left corner in accordance with the settings in the "Object Types"
window. This number was assigned automatically when the object was created.
Note: If "Order" is not active, the picture does not contain any objects of the type selected
in "Object Types" window.
2. Beginning with the first one, click all of the objects in the desired tab sequence. The numbers
will be changed accordingly.
If you want to cancel the assignment of the tab sequence and begin again, press the
<SHIFT> key and click the object which should be assigned the number 1. Then release
the <SHIFT> key and click all of the objects in the desired sequence.
3. To conclude the entry, click the work surface.

Prerequisite for Runtime

The cursor mode for the process picture must be set to "Tab Order". To accomplish this,
click a free area in the picture and select the "Properties" tab in the object settings. The
"Cursor Mode" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group must be assigned the value
"Tab Order".
The objects must be enabled for operation and the operator must be granted the required
permission. Set the Operator-Control Enable and the Authorization for each object. Click
on the object and select the object properties on the "Properties" tab. In the "Miscellaneous"
property group, you can set the Operator-Control Enable and the Authorization.

See also
Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence (Page678)
Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence (Page681)
Removing Objects from the Tab Sequence (Page682)
Putting Objects Back into the Tab Sequence (Page683)
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)

3.9.6.4

Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence

Introduction
Graphics Designer supports a number of options for avoiding the necessity of resorting all of
the objects if the tab sequence is changed.

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Setting the tab sequence - keys

<SHIFT>
Hold down the <SHIFT> key while clicking the object. This object will be given the number
1 in the tab sequence.
<CTRL>
Hold down the <CTRL> key while clicking the last object to keep its present number. Then
release the <CTRL> key and click the object which should come next in the sequence.
<SHIFT+CTRL>
Hold down the <SHIFT+CTRL> key while clicking an object to remove this object from the
TAB sequence or to put an object back into the TAB sequence.

See also
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)
Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence (Page679)
Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence (Page678)

3.9.6.5

Removing Objects from the Tab Sequence

Introduction
The <TAB> key can be used in Runtime to move from one object to another to make entries.
If you do not want the cursor to jump to an object, remove it from the tab sequence.
Example: A complex process picture contains many objects for which the operator could make
entries. Normally, however, entries need only be made for a few objects. In this case, simply
put these objects in the tab sequence. If necessary, the operator can click the other objects to
activate them and make his entries.

Procedure
1. In the "Edit" menu, "TAB Sequence" select one of the two types of cursor and then the entry
"Order".
Based on the settings, the objects are given a number in a square (classic design) or a
circle (other designs) in the upper left corner. This number was assigned automatically
when the object was created.
2. Hold the keys <SHIFT+CTRL> pressed and click the object, which should be removed from
the tab sequence. The number of the object will be replaced by an asterisk. The objects
with higher numbers will be automatically renumbered.
3. To conclude the entry, click the work surface.

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Requirement for Runtime

The objects must be enabled for operation and the operator must be granted the required
permission. Set the operator control enable and the authorization for each object.
Click on the object and select the object properties on the "Properties" tab. In the
"Miscellaneous" property group, you can set the operator control enable and the
authorization.

See also
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)
Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence (Page681)
Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence (Page679)
Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence (Page678)

3.9.6.6

Putting Objects Back into the Tab Sequence

Introduction
The <TAB> key can be used in Runtime to move from one object to another to make entries.
If you have removed an object from the tab sequence, you can put it back into the sequence.

Procedure
1. In the "Edit" menu, "TAB Sequence" select one of the two types of cursor and then the entry
"Order".
Based on the settings, the objects are given a number in a square (classic design) or a
circle (other designs) in the upper left corner. This number was assigned automatically
when the object was created. Objects, which have an asterisk instead of a number, have
been removed from the tab sequence and can be put back into it.
2. Hold the keys <SHIFT+CTRL> pressed and click the object, which should be put back into
the tab sequence. The asterisk in the rectangle or circle will be replaced by a
number.
If you now want to redefine the tab sequence, hold the <SHIFT> key pressed and click the
object to which the cursor should first jump. Then release the <SHIFT> key and click all of
the objects in the desired sequence.
3. To conclude the entry, click the work surface.

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Requirement for Runtime

The objects must be enabled for operation and the operator must be granted the required
permission. Set the operator control enable and the authorization for each object.
Click on the object and select the object properties on the "Properties" tab. In the
"Miscellaneous" property group, you can set the operator control enable and the
authorization.

See also
How to set up a picture for mouseless operation (Page677)
Removing Objects from the Tab Sequence (Page682)
Tips on Changing the Tab Sequence (Page681)
Setting the tab order cursor's tab sequence (Page679)
Defining the Alpha cursor's tab sequence (Page678)

3.10

Object properties

3.10

Resources

3.10.1

"Axis" Property Group

3.10.1.1

Axis Section (AxisSection)

The "Axis Section" attribute defines the distance between the large tick marks for the "Bar"
object. The value is specified as the difference in value between two neighboring large tick
marks.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit is provided by the minimum value and
maximum value of the scale.
0

The spacing between the large tick marks is set automatically according to the setting
of the "Bar Scaling" attribute.

The "Axis Section" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AxisSection".

3.10.1.2

Alignment
The "Alignment" attribute defines the arrangement of the scale relative to the bar for the "Bar"
object. Depending on the setting for the "Bar Direction" attribute in the "Geometry" property
group, the scale can be displayed to the left or right or above or below the bar.

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The possibilities for arrangement of the scale relative to the bar depend on the value of the
"Bar Direction" attribute in the "Geometry" property group.
Above / Below
Left / Right

The scale is displayed above or below the bar.

The scale is displayed to the left or right of the bar.

The "Alignment" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Alignment".

3.10.1.3

Bar Scaling (ScalingType)

The "Bar Scaling" attribute specifies the type of scale division for the "Bar" object. By selecting
suitable scale divisions, it is possible to emphasize a particular range of values in the bar
display.
Linear

Logarithmic

Negative
logarithmic
Automatic (linear)
Tangent
Square

Cubic

The large tick marks are evenly distributed across the scale.
The spacing between the large tick marks corresponds to the value of
the "Axis Section" attribute.
The distribution of the large tick marks on the scale follows a logarithmic
function.
The representation of low values is strongly emphasized.
The distribution of the large tick marks on the scale follows a negative
logarithmic function.
The representation of high values is strongly emphasized.
The large tick marks are evenly distributed across the scale.
The spacing between the large tick marks is set automatically.
The distribution of the large tick marks on the scale emphasizes the
representation of the low and high values.
The distribution of the large tick marks on the scale follows a square
function.
The representation of high values is emphasized.
The distribution of the large tick marks on the scale follows a cubic
function. The representation of high values is emphasized.

The "Bar Scaling" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ScalingType".

3.10.1.4

Label Each (Long StrokesText Each)

The "Label Each" attribute specifies the number of labeled large tick marks for the "Bar" object.
If, for example, the attribute has the value "3", only every third large tick mark is labeled, starting
with the large tick mark with the lowest value.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the number of large tick marks.
0
1
5

The large tick marks are not labeled

Each large tick mark is labeled
Every fifth large tick mark is labeled

The "Label Each" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

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3.10.1.5

Exponent Display (Exponent)

The "Exponent Display" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the numerical values
of the scale are shown exponentially or as decimal values without exponent.
The representation of decimal values can be defined with the attributes "Decimal Places" and
"Digits to the Left of the Decimal Point".
Yes
No

The numerical values of the scale are displayed exponentially.

The numerical values of the scale are displayed as decimal values without
exponent.

The "Exponent display" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Exponent".

3.10.1.6

Large Tick Marks (LongStrokesBold)

The "Large Tick Marks" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the large tick marks of
the scale are shown in bold or as normal.
Normal
Bold

The large tick marks of the scale are displayed normally.

The large tick marks of the scale are displayed in bold.

The "Large Tick Marks" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LongStrokesBold".

3.10.1.7

Large Tick Marks Length (LongStrokesSize)

The "Large Tick Marks Length" attribute specifies the length of the large tick marks for the
"Bar" object. The length of the shorter tick marks corresponds to half of the value specified
here. The values are specified in pixels.
If the "Only Large Tick Marks" attribute has the value "Yes", no shorter tick marks are displayed.
There is a free choice of value.
The "Only Large Tick Marks" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LongStrokesSize".

3.10.1.8

Decimal Places (RightComma)

The "Decimal Places" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the number of digits after the
decimal point for the display of numerical values in the scale.
0 - 20

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Decimal Places" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RightComma".

3.10.1.9

Zero Point (ZeroPoint)

The "Zero Point" attribute specifies for the representation of the bar in which position the zero
point value is displayed. The value is specified relative to the spacing of the scale end values
in %. For a value of 0 %, for example, the zero point value is shown at the height of the large
tick mark with the lowest value. The zero point can also be outside of the range represented.

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The "Zero Point" attribute is only evaluated if the "Bar Scaling" attribute has the value
"Automatic". The absolute value for the zero point is set with the "Zero Point Value" attribute
in the "Miscellaneous" property group.
There is a free choice of value.
The "Zero Point" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ZeroPoint".

3.10.1.10 Only Large Tick Marks (LongStrokesOnly)

The "Only Large Tick Marks" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the sections
between the large tick marks in the scale of the bar are divided by shorter tick marks.
The length of the large tick marks is specified with the "Large Tick Marks Length" attribute.
The length of the shorter tick marks corresponds to half of the value specified here.
Yes
No

In the scale of the bar, only large tick marks are displayed.
In the scale of the bar, the sections between the large tick marks are divided by
shorter tick marks.

The "Only Large Tick Marks" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LongStrokesOnly".

3.10.1.11 Scale (Scaling)

The "Scale" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the bar is labeled with a scale.
Yes
No

The bar is displayed with a scale.

The bar is displayed without a scale.

The "Scale" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Scaling".

3.10.1.12 Scale Marks (ScaleTicks)

The "Scale Marks" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the number of segments into which
the bar is divided by the large tick marks of the scale.
0 - 100
=0

The "Bar" object can be divided into a maximum of 100 segments.

The optimum number of segments is set automatically.

The "Scale Marks" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ScaleTicks".

3.10.1.13 Digits to the Left of the Decimal Point (LeftComma)

The "Digits to the Left of the Decimal Point" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the number
of digits before the decimal point for the display of numerical values in the scale.
0 - 20

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The "Digits to the Left of the Decimal Point" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"LeftComma".

3.10.2

"Output / Input" Property Group

3.10.2.1

Number of Visible Lines (NumberLines)

The "Number of Visible Lines" attribute specifies the number of lines displayed in the selection
list of a text list. If the amount of configured text is larger than this value, the selection list
receives a vertical scroll bar in Runtime.
There is a free choice of value.
The " Number of Visible Characters" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"NumberLines".

3.10.2.2

Output Format (OutputFormat)

The "Output Format" attribute specifies the format for the display of an output value in the I/O
field. The available format definitions depend on the value of the "Data Format" attribute.
Four different data formats are available for the input and output of values in an I/O field.
Numerical values can be processed in binary, decimal or hexadecimal form; for the display of
text, the I/O field must be assigned the data format "String".
The "Output Format" can be dynamized using the "OutputFormat" name.

3.10.2.3

Output Value (OutputValue)

The "Output Value" attribute specifies a start value for the output which is displayed in Runtime
in the case of a missing process driver connection or if an update has not yet taken place.
It must be possible to display the output value with the format specifications specified with the
"Output Format" attribute. If this is not the case, three asterisks are displayed instead of the
output value.
There is a free choice of value.
The "Output Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "OutputValue".

3.10.2.4

Bit Number (BitNumber)

The "Bit Number" attribute specifies the number of the relevant bit in the output value.
0 - 31

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Bit Number" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitNumber".

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3.10.2.5

Data Format (DataFormat)

The "Data Format" attribute defines the data type for a value to be displayed.
Four different data formats are available for the input and output of values in an I/O field.
Numerical values can be processed in binary, decimal or hexadecimal form; for the display of
text, the data format "String" must be assigned.
It must be possible to display the output value with the format specifications specified with the
"Output Format" attribute. If this is not the case, three asterisks are displayed instead of the
output value.
The "Data Format" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.2.6

Input value
The "Input value" attribute defines the value to be entered in the I/O field by the user.
You can configure the I/O field with this attribute so that the input value changed by the user
is also displayed in the I/O field after confirming with the <Return> key.
This requires that you configure a direct connection between the attributes "Input value" and
"Output value". Without this direct connection, the entered value is deleted after acceptance
with the <Return> key. The direct connection is only practical when no tag is connected to the
output value, but the user can nevertheless query the specified value, for example, through a
script.
The "Input value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "InputValue".

3.10.2.7

Field Type (BoxType)

The "Field Type" attribute defines the application area for I/O fields or fields of a text list.
Input
Edition
Input/Output

The field is only used for the input of values.

The field is only used for the output of values.
The field can be used for the input and output of values.

The "Field Type" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BoxType".

3.10.2.8

List Type (ListType)

The "List Type" attribute defines the data type for the "Text List" object.
Depending on the selected list type, a distinction is made in the specification of display texts
for test lists defined with the "Assignment" attribute.
Decimal
Binary
Bit

Display texts are assigned for certain value ranges.

Display texts are assigned for each bit number.
One display text can be assigned for each of the statuses "1
bit set" and "0 - bit not set".

The "List Type" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

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3.10.2.9

Clear on Invalid Input (ClearOnError)

The "Clear on Invalid Input" attribute can be used to prevent adoption of an incorrect input
value when the field is left. An input value is bad, for example, when it does not correspond to
the predefined data format of the input field.
Yes
No

An incorrect input value is deleted automatically on leaving the field.

An incorrect input value is not deleted automatically on leaving the field.

The "Clear on Invalid Input" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ClearOnError".

3.10.2.10 Clear on New Input (ClearOnNew)

The "Clear on New Input" attribute specifies whether the current field contents are
automatically deleted when an input field is selected.
Yes
No

The field contents are deleted automatically when the field is selected.
The field contents not are deleted automatically when the field is selected.

The "Clear on New Input" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ClearOnNew".

3.10.2.11 Selected Boxes (Process)

The "Selected Boxes" attribute sets which fields in a check box are to be shown as enabled.
Each field is represented by a bit in a 32-bit word. In order to activate a field, the corresponding
bit must have the value "1". The 32-bit word contains the information for all fields of the check
box. The value of the "Selected Boxes" attribute is specified in hexadecimals.
The "Selected Boxes" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process".

3.10.2.12 Selected Box (Process)

The "Selected Box" attribute sets which option field in an option group is displayed as activated.
Each field is represented by a bit in a 32-bit word. In order to activate a field, the corresponding
bit must have the value "1". The 32-bit word contains the information for all fields of the check
box. The value of the "Selected Box" attribute is specified in hexadecimals.
The "Selected Box" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process".

3.10.2.13 Apply on Exit (AssumeOnExit)

The "Apply on Exit" attribute can be used to activate application of a value for the case that
the user leaves the I/O field without confirmation or before the required number of characters
is reached.
The "Apply on Exit" attribute has no effect if the "Apply on Complete Input" attribute has the
value "Yes".

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Yes
No

The field contents are accepted automatically when the field is selected.
The input value is only accepted when the input is confirmed by the ENTER (return)
key.

The "Apply on Exit" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AssumeOnExit".

3.10.2.14 Apply on Complete Input (AssumeOnFull)

The "Apply on Complete Input" attribute specifies when an input value is applied.
Yes
No

The input value is automatically applied as soon as the preset number of

characters has been entered.
The entered value is only applied when the input is confirmed by the ENTER
(return) key

The "Apply on Complete Input" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AssumeOnFull".

3.10.2.15 Hidden Input (HiddenInput)

The "Hidden Input" attribute specifies whether the input value is displayed during input as
normal or encrypted.
Yes
No

Each entered character is replaced in the display with the "*" character. The value
entered and the data format of the value cannot be recognized.
Each entered character is displayed as normal.

The "Hidden Input" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "HiddenInput".

3.10.2.16 Assignments (Assignments)

The "Assignments" attribute enables specification of display texts that are displayed depending
on the current "Output Value" in the text list. The type of assignment depends on the selected
"List Type".
List Type
Decimal

List Type
Binary
List Type
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Display texts are assigned for certain value ranges. The following criteria can
be used to define the value range:
"Single Value" - A display text is assigned to a single value.
"From Value" - A display text applies to all values greater than or equal to that
specified here.
"To Value" - A display text applies to all values lesser than or equal to that
specified here.
"From To Value" - A display text applies to all values of the value range specified
here.
Display texts are assigned for each bit number. Up to 32 display texts can be
defined. If a bit set in the output value is not assigned a display text, three
asterisks appear in the drop-down list.
One display text can be assigned for each of the statuses "1 - bit set" and "0 bit not set" of the bit relevant in the output value.

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Note
When you assign a text to a value in the text list, this text may not contain a semicolon";".
The semicolon is a WinCC control character and will be automatically deleted in a text.
The "Assignments" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.3

"Picture" Property Group

3.10.3.1

Picture (PictureName)
The "Picture" attribute specifies which picture is displayed in a graphic object. Pictures with
the following formats can be inserted: BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
If no picture that you want to display is defined for a graphic object, the symbol for the graphic
object is shown as a placeholder.
The graphic object should be the same size as the selected picture; otherwise, its display is
distorted.
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in
the "Picture Selection" dialog.
The "Picture" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PictureName".

3.10.3.2

Picture Referenced (PicReferenced)

The "Picture Referenced" attribute specifies whether the picture itself or only the reference in
the form of a cross-reference to the picture is integrated.
Yes
No

Only the reference of the picture is integrated and saved.

The picture itself is integrated and saved.

The "Picture Referenced" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.3.3

Picture Transparent Color (PicTransColor)

The "Picture Transparent Color" attribute specifies the transparent color of the picture to be
displayed. Transparent colors can only be displayed for pictures in BMP or DIB format. The
"Picture Transparent Color On" attribute must have the value "Yes".
The "Picture Transparent Color" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of
the name "PicTransColor".

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3.10.3.4

Picture Transparent Color On (PicUseTransColor)

The "Picture Transparent Color On" attribute specifies whether the "Transparent Color"
function is to be used for the picture to be displayed. Transparent colors can only be displayed
for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
Yes
No

The "Picture Transparent Color On" attribute is enabled.

The "Picture Transparent Color On" attribute is disabled.

The "Picture Transparent Color On" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "PicUseTransColor".

3.10.4

"Pictures" Property Group

3.10.4.1

Picture Off Referenced (PicUpReferenced)

The "Round button" object can have three different statuses: "On", "Off" or "Deactivated".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. The attributes "Picture Off
Referenced", "Picture On Referenced and "Picture Deact. Referenced" determine for the
various statuses whether the pictures or only references to the pictures are integrated.
Yes
No

Only the reference of the picture is integrated and saved.

The picture itself is integrated and saved.

The "Picture Off Referenced" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.4.2

Picture Off Transparent Color (PicUpTransparent)

The "Picture Off Transparent Color" attribute specifies the transparent color of the picture to
be displayed in "Off" state. Transparent colors can only be displayed for pictures in BMP or
DIB format.
The "Picture Off Transparent Color On" attribute must have the value "Yes".
The "Picture Off Transparent Color" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "PicUpTransparent".

3.10.4.3

Picture Off Transparent Color On (PicUpUseTransColor)

The "Picture Off Transparent Color On" attribute specifies whether the "Transparent Color"
function is to be used for the picture to be displayed in "Off" state. Transparent colors can only
be displayed for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
Yes
No

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The "Picture Off Transparent Color On" attribute is enabled.

The "Picture Off Transparent Color On" attribute is disabled.

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The "Picture Off Transparent Color On" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "PicUpUseTransColor".

3.10.4.4

Picture Deact. Referenced (PicDeactReferenced)

The "Round button" object can have three different statuses: "On", "Off" or "Deactivated".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. The attributes "Picture Off
Referenced", "Picture On Referenced and "Picture Deact. Referenced" determine for the
various statuses whether the pictures or only references to the pictures are integrated.
Yes
No

Only the reference of the picture is integrated and saved.

The picture itself is integrated and saved.

The "Picture Deact. Referenced" cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.4.5

Picture Deact. Transparent Color (PicDeactTransparent)

The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color" specifies the transparent color for the picture to be
displayed in "Deactivated" state. Transparent colors can only be displayed for pictures in BMP
or DIB format.
The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color On" attribute must have the value "Yes".
The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "PicDeactTransparent".

3.10.4.6

Picture Deact. Transparent Color On (PicDeactUseTransColor)

The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color On" attribute specifies whether the "Transparent Color"
function is to be used for the picture to be displayed in "Deactivated" state. Transparent colors
can only be displayed for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
Yes
No

The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color On" attribute is enabled.

The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color On" attribute is disabled.

The "Picture Deact. Transparent Color On" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by
means of the name "PicDeactUseTransColor".

3.10.4.7

Picture On Referenced (PicDownReferenced)

The "Round button" object can have three different statuses: "On", "Off" or "Deactivated".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. The attributes "Picture Off
Referenced", "Picture On Referenced" and "Picture Deact. Referenced" determine for the
various statuses whether the pictures or only references to the pictures are integrated.
Yes
No

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The picture itself is integrated and saved.

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The "Picture On Referenced" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.4.8

Picture On Transparent Color (PicDownTransparent)

The "Picture On Transparent Color" attribute specifies the transparent color of the picture to
be displayed in "On" state. Transparent colors can only be displayed for pictures in BMP or
DIB format.
The "Picture On Transparent Color On" attribute must have the value "Yes".
The "Picture On Transparent Color" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "PicDownTransparent".

3.10.4.9

Picture On Transparent Color On (PicDownUseTransColor)

The "Picture On Transparent Color On" attribute specifies whether the "Transparent Color"
function is to be used for the picture to be displayed in "On" state. Transparent colors can only
be displayed for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
Yes
No

The "Picture On Transparent Color On" attribute is enabled.

The "Picture On Transparent Color On" attribute is disabled.

The "Picture On Transparent Color On" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "PicDownUseTransColor".

3.10.4.10 Picture Status Off (PictureUp)

A round button can have one of three statuses: "On", "Off" or "Deactivated".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. Pictures with the following formats
can be inserted: BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in the
"Picture Selection" dialog.
The "Picture Status Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PictureUp".

3.10.4.11 Picture Status Deactivated (PictureDeactivated)

A round button can have one of three statuses: "On", "Off" or "Deactivated".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. Pictures with the following formats
can be inserted: BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
The "Picture Status Deactivated" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"PictureDeactivated".
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in the
"Picture Selection" dialog.

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3.10.4.12 Picture Status On (PictureDown)

A round button can have one of three statuses: "On", "Off" or "Deactivated".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. Pictures with the following formats
can be inserted: BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
The "Picture Status On" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PictureDown".
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in the
"Picture Selection" dialog.

3.10.4.13 Picture Alignment

The "Picture alignment" attribute defines the position and scaling of the picture placed on the
round button.
centered
Left justified
Right justified
Stretched

The picture is positioned, centered in the original proportions.

The picture is positioned with original proportions, with left justification on
the left-hand side of the round button.
The picture is positioned with original proportions, with right justification on
the right-hand side of the round button.
The picture is scaled to a square and is adapted to the size of the round
button.

The attribute "Picture alignment" can be made dynamic with the name "BackPictureAlignment".

3.10.5

"Flashing" Property Group

3.10.5.1

Flashing (EnableFlashing)
The "Flashing" attribute shows whether the value for status "OK" and "Simulation" appears
flashing or not in the extended analog display in Runtime.
So that the flashing is visible in Runtime, the font flashing color must be different to the
background flashing color.
Yes
No

Flashing for status "OK" and "Simulation" in Runtime is enabled.

Flashing for status "OK" and "Simulation" in Runtime is disabled.

The "Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "EnableFlashing".

3.10.5.2

Flashing Background Active (FlashBackColor)

The "Flashing Background Active" attribute specifies whether in Runtime a background is to
appear as flashing or not.

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To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to set flashing for a button or slider, the "Windows
Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Yes
No

The background of the object flashes in Runtime.

The background of the object does not flash in Runtime.

The "Flashing Background Active" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashBackColor".

3.10.5.3

Flashing Line Active (FlashBorderColor)

The "Flashing Line Active" attribute specifies whether in Runtime a line is to appear as flashing
or not.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic.
Yes
No

The line of the object flashes in Runtime.

The line of the object does not flash in Runtime.

The "Flashing Line Active" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FlashBorderColor".

3.10.5.4

Flashing Border Active (FlashBorderColor)

The "Flashing Border Active" attribute specifies whether in Runtime a border is to appear as
flashing or not.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off".
Yes
No

The border of the object flashes in Runtime.

The border of the object does not flash in Runtime.

The "Flashing Border Active" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashBorderColor".

3.10.5.5

Flashing Text Active (FlashForeColor)

The "Flashing Text Active" attribute specifies whether in Runtime a text is to appear as flashing
or not.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic.
Yes
No

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The text in the object does not flash in Runtime.

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The "Flashing Text Active" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FlashForeColor".

3.10.5.6

Flash Frequency (FlashRate)

The "Flash Frequency" attribute defines at what speed the messages flash in the group display,
the extended status display, and in the extended analog display in Runtime. The frequencies
"slow", "medium" and "fast" can be set. The flash frequency depends on the system
performance.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off".
Slow
Medium
Fast

The messages flash slowly in Runtime.

The messages flash at medium speed in Runtime.
The messages flash quickly in Runtime.

The "Flash Frequency" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FlashRate".

3.10.5.7

Background Flash Frequency (FlashRateBackColor)

The "Background Flash Frequency" attribute specifies the speed at which a background
flashes in Runtime. The frequencies "slow", "medium" and "fast" can be set. The flash
frequency depends on the system performance.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to set flashing for a button or slider, the "Windows
Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Slow
Medium
Fast

The background of the object flashes slowly in Runtime.

The background of the object flashes in Runtime at medium rate.
The background of the object flashes quickly in Runtime.

The "Background Flash Frequency" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashRateBackColor".

3.10.5.8

Line Flash Frequency (FlashRateBorderColor)

The "Line Flash Frequency" attribute specifies the speed at which a line flashes in Runtime.
The frequencies "slow", "medium" and "fast" can be set. The flash frequency depends on the
system performance.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to set flashing for a button or slider, the "Windows
Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Slow
Medium
Fast

698

The line of the object flashes slowly in Runtime.

The line of the object flashes in Runtime at medium speed.
The line of the object flashes quickly in Runtime.

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The "Line Flash Frequency" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashRateBorderColor".

3.10.5.9

Border Flash Frequency (FlashRateBorderColor)

The "Border Flash Frequency" attribute specifies the speed at which a border flashes in
Runtime. The frequencies "slow", "medium" and "fast" can be set. The flash frequency depends
on the system performance.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off".
Slow
Medium
Fast

The border of the object flashes slowly in Runtime.

The border of the object flashes in Runtime at medium speed.
The border of the object flashes quickly in Runtime.

The "Border Flash Frequency" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashRateBorderColor".

3.10.5.10 Text Flash Frequency (FlashRateForeColor)

The "Text Flash Frequency" attribute specifies the speed at which a text flashes in Runtime.
The frequencies "slow", "medium" and "fast" can be set. The flash frequency depends on the
system performance.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off".
Slow
Medium
Fast

The text in an object flashes slowly in Runtime.

The text in an object flashes in Runtime at medium speed.
The text in an object flashes quickly in Runtime.

The "Text Flash Frequency" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashRateForeColor".

3.10.5.11 Flashing Background Color Off (BackFlashColorOff)

The "Flashing Background Color Off" attribute specifies the color a background assumes in
flash status "Off". The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic. In order to set flashing for
a button or slider object, the "[V6.2] Windows Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BackFlashColorOff".

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3.10.5.12 Flashing Background Color On (BackFlashColorOn)

The "Flashing Background Color On" attribute specifies the color a background assumes in
flash status "On". The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic. In order to set flashing for
a button or slider object, the "[V6.2] Windows Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BackFlashColorOn".

3.10.5.13 Flashing Line Color Off (BorderFlashColorOff)

The "Flashing Line Color Off" attribute specifies the color a line assumes in flash status "Off".
The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Line Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BorderFlashColorOff".

3.10.5.14 Flashing Line Color On (BorderFlashColorOn)

The "Flashing Line Color On" attribute specifies the color a line assumes in flash status "On".
The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Line Color On" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BorderFlashColorOn".

3.10.5.15 Flashing Border Color Off (BorderFlashColorOff)

The "Flashing Border Color Off" attribute specifies the color a border assumes in flash status
"Off". The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.

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The "Flashing Border Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BorderFlashColorOff".

3.10.5.16 Flashing Border Color On (BorderFlashColorOn)

The "Flashing Border Color On" attribute specifies the color a border assumes in flash status
"On". The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Border Color On" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BorderFlashColorOn".

3.10.5.17 Flashing Text Color Off (ForeFlashColorOff)

The "Flashing Text Color Off" attribute specifies the color a text assumes in flash status "Off".
The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic. In order to set flashing for
a button or slider object, the "[V6.2] Windows Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ForeFlashColorOff".

3.10.5.18 Flashing Text Color On (ForeFlashColorOn)

The "Flashing Text Color On" attribute specifies the color a text assumes in flash status "On".
The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
To make the flashing visible in Runtime, the flashing color of the status "On" must differ from
the flashing color of the status "Off". In order to activate flashing, the "Global color scheme"
attribute must be set to "No" - except with Design WinCC Classic. In order to set flashing for
a button or slider object, the "[V6.2] Windows Style" attribute must be set to "No".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ForeFlashColorOn".

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3.10.6

The "Display" property group

3.10.6.1

Display Options (DisplayOptions)

The "Display options" attribute defines what can be displayed in the object.
Picture or text
Picture and text
Text only
Picture only

Either pictures or text can be displayed in the object.

Pictures and text can be displayed in the object.
Only text can be displayed in the object.
Only pictures can be displayed in the object.

The "Display Options" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "DisplayOptions".

3.10.6.2

Global Shadow
The "Global shadow" attribute defines whether the object will be displayed with the shadowing
defined in the active design.
yes
no

Uses the global shadowing defined for this object type.

No shadowing.

The attribute "Global shadow" can be made dynamic with the name "GlobalShadow".

3.10.6.3

Global Color Scheme

The "Global color scheme" attribute defines whether the colors defined for the current design
in the global color scheme will be used for this object.
yes
no

Uses the colors from the global color scheme defined for this type of object.
Uses the colors from the color scheme defined for this type of object under
"Colors".

The attribute "Global color scheme" can be made dynamic with the name
"GlobalColorScheme".

3.10.6.4

Object Transparency
The "Transparency" attribute defines the percentage to which the object will become
transparent.
0 - 100
(integer)

Defines the percentage of transparency.

0 = no transparency; 100 = complete transparency (invisible)

The text and fields of the graphic objects are only transparent at "100."
In runtime, a completely transparent object (invisible) is also functional.
The attribute "Transparency" can be made dynamic with the name "Transparency".

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3.10.6.5

[V6.2] Windows Style

The attribute "[V6.2] Windows Style" defines whether the object will be shown in Windows style
by WinCC version 6.2. It can only be selected if "WinCC Classic" is chosen as the current
design.
yes
no

Shows the object using the Windows style from WinCC version 6.2.
Shows the object not using the Windows style from WinCC version 6.2.

The "[V6.2] Windows style" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "WindowsStyle".

3.10.6.6

WinCC style
The attribute "WinCC Style" defines the style in which the object will be displayed.
User-defined
Global
Windows Style

Shows the object according to the respective settings.

Shows the object in a globally defined design.
Shows the object in Windows style.

The attribute "WinCC Style" can be made dynamic with the name "WinCCStyle".

3.10.7

"Colors" Property Group

3.10.7.1

Colors - 3D to H

3D Border Color Top (BorderColorTop)

The "3D Border Color Top" attribute defines the color for the left and upper part of a 3D border.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "3D Border Color Top" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderColorTop".

3D Border Color Bottom (BorderColorBottom)

The "3D Shadow Color" attribute defines the color for the right and lower part of a 3D border.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "3D Shadow Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderColorBottom".

List Background Color (UnselBGColor)

The "List Background Color" attribute defines for the "Text list" object the color with which the
entries not selected in the selection list of the background are displayed.

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Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "List Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "UnselBGColor".

List Font Color (UnselTextColor)

The "List Font Color" attribute defines for the "Text list" object the color with which the text not
selected in the selection list of the background is displayed.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "List Font Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "UnselTextColor".

Bar Color (BackColor2)

The "Bar Color" attribute defines the color with which the current value is displayed for the
"Bar" object.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Bar color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackColor2".

Bar Background Color (BackColor3)

The "Bar Background Color" attribute defines the color with which the background of the bar
is displayed for the "Bar" object.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Bar background color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackColor3".

High Limit Color (HighLimitColor)

The "High Limit Color" attribute defines the color with which the upper or right arrow key is
displayed for the "Slider object" object. The position of the slider is set using the "Alignment"
attribute in the "Geometry" property group.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "High Limit Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "HighLimitColor".

Low Limit Color (LowLimitColor)

The "Low Limit Color" attribute defines the color with which the lower or left arrow key is
displayed for the "Slider object" object. The position of the slider is set using the "Alignment"
attribute in the "Geometry" property group.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.

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The "Low Limit Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LowLimitColor".

Fill Pattern Color (FillColor)

The "Fill Pattern Color" attribute defines the color of the pattern that is displayed on the picture
background.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The selected color is only effective if the "Global color scheme" is set to "No" under "Display".
The "Fill Pattern Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillColor".

Fill Pattern Color (FillColor)

The "Fill Pattern Color" attribute defines the color of the pattern that is displayed on a filled
area.
The "Fill Pattern Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillColor".

Background Flash Color (BackColor)

The "Background Flash Color" attribute defines the color used to display the background of
the picture when flashing.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Background Flash Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackColor".

Background flashing fill color (OK, simulation) (BackFillColor)

The "Background flashing fill color (OK, simulation)" attribute defines the background color of
the flashing picture.
Either define a permanent color directly in the "Color selection" dialog, or select an indexed
color from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Background flashing fill color (OK, simulation)" attribute can be assigned dynamic
properties by means of the name "BackFillColor".

Background flashing fill pattern (OK, simulation) (BackFillStyle)

The "Background flashing fill pattern (OK, simulation)" attribute defines the background pattern
of the flashing picture.
There is a choice of 50 fill patterns. "Solid" fill pattern 0 fills the object with the set background
color; "Transparent" fill pattern 1 disables the display of a background and of a fill pattern.
The "Background flashing fill pattern (OK, simulation)" attribute can be assigned dynamic
properties by means of the name "BackFillColor".

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3.10 Object properties

Background Color (BackColor)

The "Background Color" attribute defines the color used to display the background.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The selected color is only effective if the "Global color scheme" is set to "No" under "Display".
The "Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackColor".

Background Color (BackColor)

The "Background Color" attribute defines the color used to display a filled area.
The "Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackColor".

Background Color (OK) (BackColor_OK)

The "Background Color (OK)" attribute defines the color used to display the background with
the status "OK".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Background Color (OK)" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackColor_OK".

Background Color (Simulation) (BackColor_Simulation)

The "Background Color (Simulation)" attribute defines the color used to display the background
with the status "Simulation".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Background Color (Simulation)" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BackColor_Simulation".

Background fill color (OK) (BackColor_OK)

The "Background fill color (OK)" attribute defines the background color used to indicate the
"OK" state.
Either define a permanent color directly in the "Color selection" dialog, or select an indexed
color from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Background fill color (OK)" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of
the name "BackFillColor_OK".

Background fill color (simulation) (BackColor_Simulation)

The "Background fill color (simulation)" attribute defines the background color used to indicate
the active "Simulation" state.
Either define a permanent color directly in the "Color selection" dialog, or select an indexed
color from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.

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The "Background fill color (simulation)" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "BackFillColor_Simulation".

Background fill pattern (OK) (BackColor_OK)

The "Background fill pattern (OK)" attribute defines the background pattern used to indicate
the "OK" state.
There is a choice of 50 fill patterns. "Solid" fill pattern 0 fills the object with the set background
color; "Transparent" fill pattern 1 disables the display of a background and of a fill pattern.
The "Background fill pattern (OK)" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of
the name "BackFillStyle_OK".

Background fill pattern (simulation) (BackColor_Simulation)

The "Background fill pattern (simulation)" attribute defines the background pattern used to
indicate the "Simulation" state.
There is a choice of 50 fill patterns. "Solid" fill pattern 0 fills the object with the set background
color; "Transparent" fill pattern 1 disables the display of a background and of a fill pattern.
The "Background fill pattern (simulation)" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by
means of the name "BackFillStyle_Simulation".

3.10.7.2

Colors - I to R

Button Color (ButtonColor)

The "Button Color" attribute defines the color of a "Slider object" object.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Button Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ButtonColor".

Line Color (BorderColor)

The "Line Color" attribute defines the color for representation of a line.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Line Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderColor".

Line Background Color (BorderBackColor)

The "Line Background Color" attribute defines the color used to display the background of a
broken line.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.

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In Design WinCC Classic, the background color is only visible with a line weight of "1". With
line weight of "2" or greater, the intermediate areas are shown as being transparent.
The "Line Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderBackColor".

High Limit Background Color (BackColorTop)

The "High Limit Background Color" attribute defines the color with which the upper or right
area of the slide surface is displayed for the "Slider object" object. The range depends on the
"Alignment" attribute in the "Geometry" property group.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "High Limit Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BackColorTop".

Border Color (BorderColor)

The "Border Color" attribute defines the color for representation of a border line.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Border Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderColor".

Border Background Color (BorderBackColor)

The "Border Background Color" attribute defines the color used to display the background of
a broken border line.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Border Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BorderBackColor".

Grid Color
The "Grid Color" attribute defines the color used to display the grid in the workspace of the
current picture.
The grid is a utility of the Graphics Designer which makes it easier to position objects in a
process picture precisely. The grid lines of the grid are symbolized by display of the intersection
points.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Grid Color" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Grid Color with Quality Code: "bad" (PaintColor_QualityCodeBad)

The "Grid Color with Quality Code: "bad"" attribute defines the color that the grid will be shown
in when a poor status exists, e.g. if the connection to the server is broken.

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Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Grid Color with Quality Code: "bad"" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"PaintColor_QualityCodeBad".

Grid Color with Quality Code: "uncertain" (PaintColor_QualityCodeUnCertain)

The "Grid Color with Quality Code: "uncertain"" attribute defines the color that indicates that
the grid in an uncertain status.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Grid Color with Quality Code: "uncertain"" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"PaintColor_QualityCodeUnCertain".

3.10.7.3

Colors - S to Z

Font Flash Color (ForeColor)

The "Font Flash Color" attribute defines the color of a text when flashing. The flashing is only
visible in Runtime.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Flashing Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ForeColor".

Font Color (ForeColor)

The "Font Color" attribute defines the color of the text in the object.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The selected color is only effective if the "Global color scheme" is set to "No" under "Display".
The "Font Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ForeColor".

Font Color (OK) (ForeColor_OK)

The "Font Color (OK)" attribute defines the color in which the foreground is displayed with the
status "OK".
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Font Color (OK)" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ForeColor_OK".

Font Color (Simulation) (ForeColor_Simulation)

The "Font Color (Simulation)" attribute defines the color in which the foreground is displayed
with the status "Simulation".
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Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Font Color (Simulation)" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ForeColor_Simulation".

Selection Background Color (SelBGColor)

The "Selection Background Color" attribute defines for the "Text list" object the color with which
the background of the entry selected in the selection list is displayed.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Selection Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SelBGColor".

Selection Font Color (SelTextColor)

The "Selection Font Color" attribute defines for the "Text list" object the color with which the
text selected in the selection list of the background is displayed.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Selection Font Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SelTextColor".

Scale Color (ScaleColor)

The "Scale Color" attribute defines the color with which the scale and the label are displayed
for the "Bar" object.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Scale Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ScaleColor".

Trend Color (TrendColor)

The "Trend Color" attribute defines the color with which the trend display is shown for the "Bar"
object. The trend display shows the tendency of the measured value in the form of a small
arrow at the lower end of the bar.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Trend Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TrendColor".

Dividing Line Color (ItemBorderColor)

The "Dividing Line Color" attribute defines the color with which the dividing line in the selection
list is displayed for the "Text list" object.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.

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The "Dividing Line Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ItemBorderColor".

Dividing Line Background Color (ItemBorderBackColor)

The "Dividing Line Background Color" attribute defines for the "Text list" object the color with
which the background of a broken line in the selection list is displayed.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Dividing Line Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ItemBorderBackColor".

Low Limit Background Color (BackColorBottom)

The "Low Limit Background Color" attribute defines the color with which the lower or left area
of the slide surface is displayed for the "Slider object" object. The range depends on the
"Alignment" attribute in the "Geometry" property group.
Either permanently define the color in the "Color selection" dialog or select an indexed color
from the central color palette if a central color palette is defined.
The "Low Limit Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"BackColorBottom".

3.10.8

"Filling" Property Group

3.10.8.1

Dynamic Filling (Filling)

The "Dynamic Filling" attribute specifies whether an object with a closed border line can be
filled.
Yes
No

The object can be filled.

The object cannot be filled.

The "Dynamic Filling" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Filling".

3.10.8.2

Fill Level (FillingIndex)

The "Fill Level" attribute specifies the height up to which an object is filled. The value is entered
as a percentage, in relation to the object height.
The fill level is displayed according to the value of the "Background Color" attribute in the
"Colors" property group. The non-filled background is displayed as "transparent".
0% - 100%

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Fill Level" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillingIndex".

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3.10.9

"Geometry" Property Group

3.10.9.1

Geometry - A to B

Current Value X (ActualPointLeft)

The "Current Value X" attribute specifies the horizontal position of the currently selected corner.
The value stands in relation to the picture origin and specifies in pixels the distance of the
corner from the left picture border.
The currently selected corner is uniquely determined by the "Index" attribute. In order to display
the current value X of another corner, the value of the "Index" attribute must be modified.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the picture size.
The "Current Value X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ActualPointLeft".

Current Value Y (ActualPointTop)

The "Current Value Y" attribute specifies the vertical position of the currently selected corner.
The value stands in relation to the picture origin and specifies in pixels the distance of the
corner from the top picture border.
The currently selected corner is uniquely determined by the "Index" attribute. In order to display
the current value Y of another corner, the value of the "Index" attribute must be modified.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the picture size.
The "Current Value Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ActualPointTop".

Alpha (AngleAlpha)
The "Alpha" attribute specifies the depth angle Alpha for the 3D display of the right side of a
3D bar. The values are specified in degrees.
0 - 90

There is a free choice of value for the depth angle Alpha within the specified
limits.

The "Alpha" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AngleAlpha".

Start Angle (StartAngle)

For segment or arc objects, the "Start Angle" attribute specifies the angle by which the starting
point of the object deviates from the zero position (0). The values are specified in degrees.
The start angle can be chosen freely. A meaningful limit results from the definition of a circle.
The "Start Angle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "StartAngle".

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Number of Corners (PointCount)

The "Number of Corners" specifies the total number of corners for the selected object. The
minimum number of three corners is given.
Changing the "Number of Corners" attribute has the following effects:
Increasing the number: All new corners are placed on the corner with the highest value for the
"Index" attribute. The exact position can be set by dragging with the mouse or changing the
individual position values.
Reducing the number: All corners are removed for which the value of the "Index" attribute is
higher than the new number of corners.
There is a free choice of value. The minimum number of corners is 3.
The "Number of Corners" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Number of Boxes (BoxCount)

The "Number of Boxes" specifies the total number of boxes for the selected object. For each
object, a maximum number of 32 boxes can be set.
At the same time, the value of the "Number of Boxes" attribute specifies the upper limit value
for the "Index" attribute in the "Font" property group. Changing the value can have the following
effects:
Increasing the number: New fields are inserted under the field with the highest value in the
"Index" attribute. The standard labeling of the new box can be changed using the "Text"
attribute in the "Font" property group.
Reducing the number: All fields are removed for which the value of the "Index" attribute is
higher than the new number.
1 - 32

There is a free choice of value within the specified value range.

The "Number of Boxes" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BoxCount".

Number of rows
The "Number of rows" attribute defines the number of text lines for a combination field and a
list field. You can define a maximum of 100,000 lines.
At the same time, the value of the "Number of rows" attribute specifies the upper limit value
for the "Index" attribute in the "Font" property group. Changing the value can have the following
effects:
Increasing the number: New lines are added at the bottom. The standard labeling of the
new filed can be changed using the "Text" attribute in the "Font" property group.
Reducing the number: All lines are removed for which the value of the "Index" attribute is
higher than the new number.
1 - 100 000

There is a free choice of value within the specified value range.

The attribute can be made dynamic with the name "NumberLines".

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Alignment (Direction)
The "Alignment" attribute defines for the "Slider" object whether the movement of the slider is
in a horizontal or vertical direction.
Horizontal
Vertical

The movement of the slider is in horizontal direction.

The movement of the slider is in vertical direction.

The "Alignment" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Direction".

Bar Width (BarWidth)

The "Bar Width" attribute defines for 3D bars the distance between the vertical limitation lines
of the front bar area. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the object size.
=0

The representation of the 3D bar is reduced to a vertical line.

The "Bar Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BarWidth".

Bar Height (BarHeight)

The "Bar Height" attribute defines for 3D bars the distance between the horizontal limitation
lines of the front bar area. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the object size.
=0

The representation of the 3D bar is reduced to a horizontal line.

The "Bar Height" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BarHeight".

Bar Direction (Direction)

The "Bar Direction" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the direction of the coordinate axis
in which the highest display value of the bar points.
Up
Down
Left
Right

The highest display value of the bar points upwards.

The highest display value of the bar points downwards (negative direction).
The highest display value of the bar points to the left (negative direction).
The highest display value of the bar points to the right.

The "Bar Direction" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Direction".

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Bar Direction (Direction)

The "Bar Direction" attribute specifies for the "3D bar" object whether the highest display value
of the bar points in the positive or negative direction of the coordinate axis. The position of the
3D bar in the coordinate system is specified using the "Display Axis" attribute.
Positive
Negative

The highest display value of the 3D bar points towards the positive coordinate
axis.
The highest display value of the 3D bar points towards the negative
coordinate axis.

The "Bar Direction" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Direction".

Bar Depth (BarDepth)

The "Bar Depth" attribute defines for the 3D bar the length of the oblique lines for the depth
display. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the object size.
=0

The representation of the 3D bar appears in two dimensions.

The "Bar Depth" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BarDepth".

Base X (BaseX)
The "Base X" attribute defines for the 3D bar the distance between the left object border and
the right limitation line of the front bar area. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the object size.
The "Base X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BaseX".

Base Y (BaseY)
The "Base Y" attribute defines for the 3D bar the distance between the top object border and
the bottom limitation line of the front bar area. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the object size.
The "Base Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BaseY".

Beta (AngleBeta)
The "Beta" attribute specifies the depth angle Beta for the 3D display of the left side of a 3D
bar. The values are specified in degrees.
0 - 90

There is a free choice of value for the depth angle Beta within the specified
limits.

The "Start Angle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AngleBeta".

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Picture Width (Width)

The "Picture Width" attribute defines the width of a process picture. The default value
corresponds to the vertical component of the current screen resolution and is specified in pixels.
If the value for the picture width exceeds the screen resolution, scroll bars appear in Runtime
to enable movement of the picture.
1 - 10000 pixels

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits. A meaningful
limit results from the screen resolution.

The "Picture Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Width".

Picture Height (Height)

The "Picture Height" attribute defines the height of a process picture. The default value
corresponds to the horizontal component of the current screen resolution and is specified in
pixels.
If the value for the picture height exceeds the screen resolution, scroll bars appear in Runtime
to enable movement of the picture.
1 - 10000 pixels

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits. A meaningful
limit results from the screen resolution.

The "Picture Height" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Height".

Width (Width)
The "Width" attribute defines the horizontal distance between the left and right limitation line
of an object. The values are specified in pixels.
In the case of the objects "Group Display", "Button" and "Round Button", changing the object
size can make it necessary to adapt the "3D Border Width" attribute in the "Styles" property
group.
0 - 10000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Width".
With the object "Connector", the attribute "Width" cannot be made dynamic.

Button 1 Width (Button1Width)

The "Button 1 Width" attribute defines for the "Group Display" object the width of the first button
from the left. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 1 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button1Width".

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Button 2 Width (Button2Width)

The "Button 2 Width" attribute defines for the "Group Display" object the width of the second
button from the left. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 2 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button2Width".

Button 3 Width (Button3Width)

The "Button 3 Width" attribute defines for the "Group Display" object the width of the third
button from the left. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 3 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button3Width".

Button 4 Width (Button4Width)

The "Button 4 Width" attribute defines for the "Group Display" object the width of the fourth
button from the left. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 4 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button4Width".

Button 5 Width (Button5Width)

The "Button 5 Width" attribute defines the width of the fifth button from the left for the "Group
Display" object. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 5 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button5Width".

Button 6 Width (Button6Width)

The "Button 6 Width" attribute defines the width of the sixth button from the left for the "Group
Display" object. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".

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The "Button 6 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button6Width".

Button 7 Width (Button7Width)

The "Button 7 Width" attribute defines the width of the seventh button from the left for the
"Group Display" object. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 7 Width" can be made dynamic with the name "Button7Width".

Button 8 Width (Button8Width)

The "Button 8 Width" attribute defines the width of the eighth button from the left for the "Group
Display" object. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. If the button should not be visible, set the width to "0".
Different values for the buttons are only displayed if the "Same Size" attribute has the value
"No".
The "Button 8 Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Button8Width".

3.10.9.2

Geometry - C to Z

Display Axis (Axe)

The "Display Axis" attribute defines the position of the 3D bar in the coordinate system.
X axis
Y axis
Z axis

The representation of the 3D bar takes place on the X axis.

The representation of the 3D bar takes place on the Y axis.
The representation of the 3D bar takes place on the Z axis.

The "Display Axis" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Axe".

Corner radius (CornerRadius)

The "Corner radius" attribute defines the rounding radius of the rectangles which enclose
objects in the extended analog display. The values are defined in pixels.
The range of values which can be displayed for the corner radius depends on the values set
for the "height" and "width" attributes. The maximum corner radius value which can be
displayed is equivalent to 50% of the lower one of the "height" or "width" values. The maximum
value is used if higher values are entered.
The "Corner Radius" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"CornerRadius".

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Corner Radius X (RoundCornerHeight)

The "Corner Radius X" attribute defines for a rounded rectangle the horizontal distance
between the corner of the rectangle around the object and the starting point of a rounded
corner. The value is specified as a percentage of half the object width.
If the "Corner Radius X" and "Corner Radius Y" attributes are both set to the value 100%, the
rounded rectangle is displayed as an ellipse or circle. The rectangle is shown without rounded
corners when either one of the two attributes is set to 0%.
0% - 100%
0
100

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

No rounded corners; the rounded rectangle has the appearance of a normal
rectangle.
The Corner Radius X corresponds to half the width of the rounded rectangle.
The start point of the curved section is located at the vertical center line of
the object. Both horizontal limitation lines are displayed as arcs.

The "Corner Radius X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RoundCornerHeight".

Corner Radius Y (RoundCornerWidth)

The "Corner Radius Y" attribute defines for a rounded rectangle the vertical distance between
the corner of the rectangle around the object and the starting point of a rounded corner. The
value is specified as a percentage of half the object height.
If the "Corner Radius X" and "Corner Radius Y" attributes are both set to the value 100%, the
rounded rectangle is displayed as an ellipse or circle. The rectangle is shown without rounded
corners when either one of the two attributes is set to 0%.
0% - 100%
0
100

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

No rounded corners; the rounded rectangle has the appearance of a normal
rectangle.
The Corner Radius Y corresponds to half the height of the rounded
rectangle.
The start point of the curved section is located at the vertical center line of
the object. Both vertical limitation lines are displayed as arcs.

The "Corner Radius Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RoundCornerWidth".

End Angle (EndAngle)

For segment or arc objects, the "End Angle" attribute specifies the angle by which the end
point of the object deviates from the zero position (0). The values are specified in degrees.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the definition of a circle.
The "End Angle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "EndAngle".

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Window Width (Width)

The "Window Width" attribute defines the horizontal distance between the left and right
limitation line of an object. The values are specified in pixels.
0 - 10000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Window Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Width".

Window Height (Height)

The "Window Height" attribute defines the vertical distance between the top and bottom
limitation line of an object. The values are specified in pixels.
0 - 10000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Window Height" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Height".

Same Size (SameSize)

The "Same Size" attribute defines whether the buttons of a group display will have the same
width or whether the widths can be defined individually for each button.
Yes

No

All buttons that have the "Button ... Width" attribute defined as unequal to "0" will
be set to the same size within the overall width of the "Group Display" object.
Changing the overall width of the object changes the width of the all buttons that
have a width unequal to 0.
The width of the buttons can be defined individually using the "Button ... Width"
attributes.

The "Same Size" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SameSize".

Height (Height)
The "Height" attribute defines the vertical distance between the top and bottom limitation line
of an object. The values are specified in pixels.
In the case of the objects "Group Display", "Button" and "Round Button", changing the object
size can make it necessary to adapt the "3D Border Width" attribute in the "Styles" property
group.
0 - 10000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Height" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Height".
With the object "Connector", the attribute "Height"

Index (Index)
The "Index" attribute indicates the item number of the currently selected corner. Changing the
value specified here enables targeted selection of a corner.

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Changing the "Index" attribute also changes the displayed value of the "Current Value X" and
"Current Value Y" attributes. The display of these three attributes only applies to the currently
selected corner in each case.
1 - "Number of Corners"

The value can be chosen freely within

the specified limits.

The "Index" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Index".

Position X (Left)
The "Position X" attribute defines the horizontal distance of the object origin from the left picture
border. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the picture size.
The "Position X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Left".
With the object "Connector", the value can only be changed with unlinked ends.

Position Y (Top)
The "Position Y" attribute defines the vertical distance of the object origin from the top picture
border. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the picture size.
The "Position Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Top".
With the object "Connector", the value can only be changed with unlinked ends.

Radius (Radius)
The "Radius" attribute defines the radius of circular objects. The values are specified in pixels.
0 - 5000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Radius" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Radius".

Radius X (RadiusWidth)
The "Radius X" attribute defines the horizontal radius of elliptical objects. The values are
specified in pixels.
0 - 5000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Radius X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RadiusWidth".

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Radius Y (RadiusHeight)
The "Radius Y" attribute defines the vertical radius of elliptical objects. The values are specified
in pixels.
0 - 5000

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "Radius Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RadiusHeight".

Grid On
The "Grid On" attribute specifies whether a grid is shown in the workspace of the current picture.
The grid is a utility of the Graphics Designer which makes it easier to position objects in a
process picture precisely. The grid lines of the grid are symbolized by display of the intersection
points.
If the additional option "Snap to Grid" is enabled, all objects are automatically aligned

Grid Height
The "Grid Height" attribute is used to specify the vertical distance for the grid lines of the grid.
The value is specified in pixels.
The grid is a utility of the Graphics Designer which makes it easier to position objects in a
process picture precisely. The grid lines of the grid are symbolized by display of the intersection
points.
The minimum grid height that can be displayed on the screen is 10 pixels. A low value can be
specified, but only the intersection points with a spacing of at least 10 pixels are displayed on
the screen.
With a grid height of 4 pixels, only each third intersection is displayed. The objects can however
also be aligned to the two grid lines between them.

Grid Width
The "Grid Width" attribute is used to specify the horizontal distance for the grid lines of the The
value is specified in pixels.
The grid is a utility of the Graphics Designer which makes it easier to position objects in a
process picture precisely. The grid lines of the grid are symbolized by display of the intersection
points.
The minimum grid width that can be displayed on the screen is 10 pixels. A low value can be
specified, but only the intersection points with a spacing of at least 10 pixels are displayed on
the screen.
With a grid width of 4 pixels, only each third intersection is displayed. The objects can however
also be aligned to the two grid lines between them.

Rotation Reference X (ReferenceRotationLeft)

The "Rotation Reference X" attribute defines the horizontal coordinates of the reference point
around which the object rotates in Runtime. The value describes the horizontal distance

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between the reference point and the origin of the object. The value is indicated in percentages,
whereby the object width corresponds to 100%.
The reference point value can be outside the selection rectangle. This means that both
negative values and values higher than 100% are possible.
The rotation of an object is visible only in Runtime. The direction of rotation depends on the
value of the "Rotation Angle" attribute.
There is a free choice of value. Both negative values and values greater than 100% are
permitted.
Example:
-100%
0%
50%
100%
200%

The reference point lies to the left of the object origin (distance = one object
width).
The vertical coordinates of the reference point and object origin are the same.
The reference point lies on the vertical center axis of the object.
The reference point lies to the right of the object origin (distance = one object
width).
The reference point lies to the right of the object origin (distance = two object
widths).

The "Rotation Reference X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ReferenceRotationLeft".

Rotation Reference Y (ReferenceRotationTop)

The "Rotation Reference Y" attribute defines the vertical coordinates of the reference point
around which the object rotates in Runtime. The value describes the vertical distance between
the reference point and the origin of the object. The value is indicated in percentages, whereby
the object width corresponds to 100%.
The reference point value can be outside the selection rectangle. This means that both
negative values and values higher than 100% are possible.
The rotation of an object is visible only in Runtime. The direction of rotation depends on the
value of the "Rotation Angle" attribute.
There is a free choice of value. Both negative values and values greater than 100% are
permitted.
Example:
-100%
0%
50%
100%
200%

The reference point lies above the object origin (distance = one object width).
The horizontal coordinates of the reference point and object origin are the
same.
The reference point lies on the horizontal center axis of the object.
The reference point lies below the object origin (distance = one object width).
The reference point lies below the object origin (distance = two object widths).

The "Rotation Reference Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ReferenceRotationTop".

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Rotation Angle (RotationAngle)

The "Rotation Angle" attribute defines the rotation of an object around a reference point. The
value of the rotation angle is specified in degrees; the starting value corresponds to a value of
0.
The position of the object deviates from its configured start position by the value of the "Rotation
Angle" attribute. The changed orientation of the object is only visible in Runtime.
The coordinates of the reference point are defined with the "Rotation Reference X" and
"Rotation Reference Y" attributes.
-360 - 360
< 0
= 0
> 0

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The object is rotated counterclockwise.
The object is not rotated (display of the configured start position).
The object is rotated clockwise.

The "Rotation Angle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RotationAngle".

Rotation Angle (RotationAngle)

The "Rotation Angle" attribute defines the orientation of a T-piece. The attribute can have one
of four values that are specified in degrees.
The orientation is produced by rotating the T-piece clockwise around the center point by the
specified number of degrees.
If you enter another value, it is automatically converted to modulus 360 and rounded up or
down to the closest permissible value.
0
90
180
270

The standard position of the T-piece is the shape of the letter "T"
The "leg" of the "T" points towards the left
The "leg" of the "T" points upwards
The "leg" of the "T" points to the right

The "Rotation Angle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "RotationAngle".

Angle Settings (PredefinedAngles)

The "Angle Settings" attribute offers three predefined variants for the depth display of a 3D
bar. A fourth variant enables free setting of the two depth angles Alpha and Beta.
If the "Angle Settings" attribute is changed, the "Alpha" and "Beta" attributes receive predefined
values.
Cavalier
Isonometric
Axionometric
Freely Defined

724

Depth display with the values: Alpha = 45 and Beta = 0

Depth display with the values: Alpha = Beta = 45
Depth display with the values: Alpha = 10 and Beta = 42
There is a free choice of values for Alpha and Beta.

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3.10.10

"Limits" Property Group

3.10.10.1 Limits - A
Type AH (TypeAlarmHigh)
The "Type AH" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Limit AH is
displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are shown on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of limit AH is accepted as an absolute value in the representation

of the bar.
The value of limit AH is displayed as a percentage value, starting from the
zero point of the bar display.

The "Type AH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeAlarmHigh".

Type AL (TypeAlarmLow)
The "Type AL" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Alarm Low Limit
AL is displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of
the bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.

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The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are shown on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of Alarm Low Limit AL is accepted as an absolute value in the

representation of the bar.
The value of Alarm Low Limit AL is displayed as a percentage value, starting
from the zero point of the bar display.

The "Type AL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeAlarmLow".

Type RH4 (TypeLimitHigh4)

The "Type RH4" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the High Limit RH4
is displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are shown on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of High Limit RH4 is accepted as an absolute value in the

representation of the bar.
The value of High Limit RH4 is displayed as a percentage value, starting from
the zero point of the bar display.

The "Type RH4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeLimitHigh4".

Type RH5 (TypeLimitHigh5)

The "Type RH5" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the High Limit RH5
is displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:

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The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are shown on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of High Limit RH5 is accepted as an absolute value in the

representation of the bar.
The value of High Limit RH5 is displayed as a percentage value, starting from
the zero point of the bar display.

The "Type RH5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeLimitHigh5".

Type RL4 (TypeLimitLow4)

The "Type RL4" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Low Limit RL4
is displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of Low Limit RL4 is accepted as an absolute value in the

representation of the bar.
The value of Low Limit RL4 is displayed as a percentage value, starting from
the zero point of the bar display.

The "Type RL4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeLimitLow4".

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Type RL5 (TypeLimitLow5)

The "Type RL5" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Low Limit RL5
is displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of Low Limit RL5 is accepted as an absolute value in the

representation of the bar.
The value of Low Limit RL5 is displayed as a percentage value, starting from
the zero point of the bar display.

The "Type RL5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeLimitLow5".

Type TH (TypeToleranceHigh)
The "Type TH" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Limit TH is
displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.

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Absolute
%

The value of limit TH is accepted as an absolute value in the representation

of the bar.
The value of limit TH is displayed as a percentage value, starting from the
zero point of the bar display.

The "Type TH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeToleranceHigh".

Type TL (TypeToleranceLow)
The "Type TL" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Limit TL is
displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of limit TL is accepted as an absolute value in the representation

of the bar.
The value of limit TL is displayed as a percentage value, starting from the
zero point of the bar display.

The "Type TL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeToleranceLow".

Type WH (TypeWarningHigh)
The "Type WH" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Limit WH is
displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the

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Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of limit WH is accepted as an absolute value in the representation

of the bar.
The value of limit WH is displayed as a percentage value, starting from the
zero point of the bar display.

The "Type WH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeWarningHigh".

Type WL (TypeWarningLow)
The "Type WL" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the value of the Limit WL is
displayed as an absolute value or as a percentage value, starting from the zero point of the
bar display.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Absolute
%

The value of limit WL is accepted as an absolute value in the representation

of the bar.
The value of limit WL is displayed as a percentage value, starting from the
zero point of the bar display.

The "Type WL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TypeWarningLow".

3.10.10.2 Limits - Bar color

Bar Color 0 (Layer00Color)
The "Bar Color 0" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 0" attribute.

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You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 0" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer00Color".

Bar Color 1 (Layer01Color)

The "Bar Color 1" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 1" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer01Color".

Bar Color 2 (Layer02Color)

The "Bar Color 2" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 2" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer02Color".

Bar Color 3 (Layer03Color)

The "Bar Color 3" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 3" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
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The "Bar Color 3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer03Color".

Bar Color 4 (Layer04Color)

The "Bar Color 4" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 4" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer04Color".

Bar Color 5 (Layer05Color)

The "Bar Color 5" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 5" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer05Color".

Bar Color 6 (Layer06Color)

The "Bar Color 6" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 6" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 6" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer06Color".

Bar Color 7 (Layer07Color)

The "Bar Color 7" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 7" attribute.

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You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 7" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer07Color".

Bar Color 8 (Layer08Color)

The "Bar Color 8" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 8" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 8" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer08Color".

Bar Color 9 (Layer09Color)

The "Bar Color 9" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 9" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
The "Bar Color 9" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer09Color".

Bar Color 10 (Layer10Color)

The "Bar Color 10" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the color for the representation of
a display value that is lower than the value of the "Limit 10" attribute.
You can define up to 11 limit values for the "3D bar" object by means of the "Limit N" (N = 0
to 10) attributes. For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a
color change. This color setting is activated if the corresponding "Monitoring N" attribute has
the value "Yes".
A display value is output in the Bar Color N as long as it is less than the value of Limit N. A
black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are less than Limit 0
or greater than Limit 10.
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The "Bar Color 10" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer10Color".

Bar Color AH (ColorAlarmHigh)

The "Bar Color AH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is higher than the value of the upper limit "Alarm High".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color AH" attribute can assogned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorAlarmHigh".

Bar Color AL (ColorAlarmLow)

The "Bar Color AL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the lower limit Alarm Low".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color AL" attribute can assogned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorAlarmLow".

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Bar Color RH4 (ColorLimitHigh4)

The "Bar Color RH4" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is higher than the value of the upper limit "Reserve High 4".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color RH4" attribute can assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorAlarmHigh4".

Bar Color RH5 (ColorLimitHigh5)

The "Bar Color RH5" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is higher than the value of the upper limit "Reserve High 5".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color RH5" attribute can assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorAlarmHigh5".

Bar Color RL4 (ColorLimitLow4)

The "Bar Color RL4" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the lower limit "Reserve Low 4".

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For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color RL4" attribute can assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorAlarmLow4".

Bar Color RL5 (ColorLimitLow5)

The "Bar Color RL5" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the lower limit "Reserve Low 5".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color RL5" attribute can assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorLimitLow5".

Bar Color TH (ColorToleranceHigh)

The "Bar Color TH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is higher than the value of the upper limit "Tolerance High".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:

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The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color TH" attribute can assogned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorToleranceHigh".

Bar Color TL (ColorToleranceLow)

The "Bar Color TL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the lower limit "Tolerance Low".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color TL" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorToleranceLow".

Bar Color WH (ColorWarningHigh)

The "Bar Color WH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is higher than the value of the upper limit "Warning High".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.

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The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color WH" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorWarningHigh".

Bar Color WL (ColorWarningLow)

The "Bar Color WL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the color for the representation of a
display value that is lower than the value of the lower limit "Warning Low".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
The "Bar Color WL" attribute be assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ColorWarningLow".

3.10.10.3 Limits - Bar fill color

Bar fill color 0 (Layer00FillColor)
The "Layer00FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
0".
The "Layer00FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer00FillColor".

Layer01FillColor
The "Layer01FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
1".

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The "Layer01FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer01FillColor".

Layer02FillColor
The "Layer02FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
2".
The "Layer02FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer02FillColor".

Layer03FillColor
The "Layer03FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
3".
The "Layer03FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer03FillColor".

Layer04FillColor
The "Layer04FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
4".
The "Layer04FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer04FillColor".

Layer05FillColor
The "Layer05FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
5".
The "Layer05FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer05FillColor".

Layer06FillColor
The "Layer06FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
6".
The "Layer06FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer06FillColor".

Layer07FillColor
The "Layer07FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
7".
The "Layer07FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer07FillColor".

Layer08FillColor
The "Layer08FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
8".
The "Layer08FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer08FillColor".

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Layer09FillColor
The "Layer09FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
9".
The "Layer09FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer09FillColor".

Layer10FillColor
The "Layer10FillColor" attribute defines the color with which the bar is filled in relation to "Limit
10".
The "Layer10FillColor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer10FillColor".

3.10.10.4 Limits - Bar fill style

Layer00FillStyle
The "Layer00FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 0". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 0" must differ from "bar color 0".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer00FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer00FillStyle".

Layer01FillStyle
The "Layer01FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 1". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 1" must differ from "bar color 1".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer01FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer01FillStyle".

Layer02FillStyle
The "Layer02FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 2". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 2" must differ from "bar color 2".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer02FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer02FillStyle".

Layer03FillStyle
The "Layer03FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 3". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 3" must differ from "bar color 3".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.

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The "Layer03FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer03FillStyle".

Layer04FillStyle
The "Layer04FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 4". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 4" must differ from "bar color 4".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer04FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer04FillStyle".

Layer05FillStyle
The "Layer05FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 5". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 5" must differ from "bar color 5".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer05FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer05FillStyle".

Layer06FillStyle
The "Layer06FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 6". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 6" must differ from "bar color 6".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer06FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer06FillStyle".

Layer07FillStyle
The "Layer07FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 7". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 7" must differ from "bar color 7".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer07FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer07FillStyle".

Layer08FillStyle
The "Layer08FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 8". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 8" must differ from "bar color 8".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer08FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer08FillStyle".

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Layer09FillStyle
The "Layer09FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 9". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 9" must differ from "bar color 9".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer09FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer09FillStyle".

Layer10FillStyle
The "Layer10FillStyle" attribute defines the style of the bar in relation to "Limit 10". For the fill
pattern to become visible, "bar fill color 10" must differ from "bar color 10".
There is a choice of 50 fill styles. The 0 "Solid" fill style fills the object with the set background
color. The 1 "Transparent" fill style means neither a background nor a fill pattern is displayed.
The "Layer10FillStyle" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer10FillStyle".

3.10.10.5 Limits - C to T
Limit 0 (Layer00Value)
The "Limit 0" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 0.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 0" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer00Value".

Limit 1 (Layer01Value)
The "Limit 1" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 1.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

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There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer01Value".

Limit 2 (Layer02Value)
The "Limit 2" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 2.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer02Value".

Limit 3 (Layer03Value)
The "Limit 3" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 3.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer03Value".

Limit 4 (Layer04Value)
The "Limit 4" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 4.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

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There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer04Value".

Limit 5 (Layer05Value)
The "Limit 5" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 5.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer05Value".

Limit 6 (Layer06Value)
The "Limit 6" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 6.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 6" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer06Value".

Limit 7 (Layer07Value)
The "Limit 7" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 7.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

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There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 7" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer07Value".

Limit 8 (Layer08Value)
The "Limit 8" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 8.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 8" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer08Value".

Limit 9 (Layer09Value)
The "Limit 9" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display value
is displayed with Bar Color 9.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 9" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer09Value".

Limit 10 (Layer10Value)
The "Limit 10" attribute defines for the "3D bar" object the limit value up to which a display
value is displayed with Bar Color 10.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the bar color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

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There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "3D bar".
The "Limit 10" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer10Value".

Limit Marker (Marker)

The "Limit Marker" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Display elements
Do Not Display

The configured and monitored limits are marked by marking arrows.

The configured and monitored limits are not marked by marking arrows.

The "Limit Marker" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Marker".

High Limit Value (LimitMax)

The "High Limit Value" attribute defines for the "I/O field" object the maximum limit value for
input and output. The specified value depends on the "data format" of the I/O field.
If a value is higher than the upper limit value, the following effects are possible in Runtime:
Field type = "Input": The "WinCC Runtime" dialog is opened and displayed the error message
"The entered value is outside the configured limits".
Confirm the error message with "OK" and enter another value.
Field type = "Output": The display of the value is substituted by the character string "***".
The "Data Format" and "Field Type" attributes can be changed in the "Output / Input" property
group.
There is a free choice of value depending on the "data format" of the I/O field.
The "High Limit Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LimitMax".

Limit AH (AlarmHigh)
The "Limit AH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the upper limit value for the alarm limit
"Alarm High". If the display value exceeds the value specified here, it is displayed in the Bar
Color AH.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.

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The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Limit AH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AlarmHigh".

High Limit RH4 (LimitHigh4)

The "High Limit RH4" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the upper limit value for the limit
"Reserve High 4". If the display value exceeds the value specified here, it is displayed in the
Bar Color RH4.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "High Limit RH4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LimitHigh4".

High Limit RH5 (LimitHigh5)

The "High Limit RH5" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the upper limit value for the limit
"Reserve High 5". If the display value exceeds the value specified here, it is displayed in the
Bar Color RH5.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
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The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "High Limit RH5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LimitHigh5".

Limit TH (ToleranceHigh)
The "Limit TH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the upper limit value for the tolerance limit
"Tolerance High". If the display value exceeds the value specified here, it is displayed in the
Bar Color TH.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Limit TH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ToleranceHigh".

Limit WH (WarningHigh)
The "Limit WH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the upper limit value for the warning limit
"Warning High". If the display value exceeds the value specified here, it is displayed in the Bar
Color WH.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.

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The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Limit WH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "WarningHigh".

3.10.10.6 Limits - U to Z
Monitoring 0 (Layer00Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 0" attribute activates the monitoring of Limit 0.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 0 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 0 until Limit 0 is
exceeded.
Limit 0 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 0" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer00Checked".

Monitoring 1 (Layer01Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 1" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 1.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 1 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 1 until Limit 1 is
exceeded.
Limit 1 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer01Checked".

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Monitoring 2 (Layer02Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 2" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 2.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 2 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 2 until Limit 2 is
exceeded.
Limit 2 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer02Checked".

Monitoring 3 (Layer03Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 3" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 3.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 3 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 3 until Limit 3 is
exceeded.
Limit 3 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer03Checked".

Monitoring 4 (Layer04Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 4" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 4.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

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Yes
No

Limit 4 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 4 until Limit 4 is
exceeded.
Limit 4 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer04Checked".

Monitoring 5 (Layer05Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 5" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 5.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 5 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 5 until Limit 5 is
exceeded.
Limit 5 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer05Checked".

Monitoring 6 (Layer06Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 6" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 6.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 6 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 6 until Limit 6 is
exceeded.
Limit 6 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 6" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer06Checked".

Monitoring 7 (Layer07Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 7" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 7.

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For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 7 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 7 until Limit 7 is
exceeded.
Limit 7 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 7" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer07Checked".

Monitoring 8 (Layer08Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 8" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 8.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 8 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 8 until Limit 8 is
exceeded.
Limit 8 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 8" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer08Checked".

Monitoring 9 (Layer09Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 9" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 9.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.

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Yes
No

Limit 9 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 9 until Limit 9 is
exceeded.
Limit 9 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next monitored
limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring 9" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer09Checked".

Monitoring 10 (Layer10Checked)
For the "3D bar" object, the "Monitoring 10" attribute activates the monitoring of limit 10.
For the "3D bar" object, up to 11 limit values can be defined using the attributes "Limit N" (N
= 0 to 10). For each limit value, the "Bar Color N" attributes can be used to specify a color
change. If the corresponding attribute "Monitoring N" has the value "Yes", the color setting is
activated.
A display value is displayed in the Bar Color N as long as it is lower than the value of the Limit
N. A black arrow at the ends of the bar display symbolizes display values that are lower than
Limit 0 or higher than Limit 10.
Yes
No

Limit 10 is monitored. The display value is displayed with bar color 10 until Limit
10 is exceeded.
Limit 10 is not monitored. There is no color change.

The "Monitoring 10" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Layer10Checked".

Monitoring AH (CheckAlarmHigh)
The "Monitoring AH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the alarm limit
"Alarm High".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
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Limit AH is monitored. The display value is displayed with the bar color AH as soon
as it exceeds the Limit AH.
Limit AH is not monitored. No color change takes place.

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The "Monitoring AH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckAlarmHigh".

Monitoring AL (CheckAlarmLow)
The "Monitoring AL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the alarm limit "Alarm
Low".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit AL is monitored. The display value is displayed with the bar color AL as soon
as it falls below the Alarm Low Limit AL.
Limit AL is not monitored. No color change takes place.

The "Monitoring AL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckAlarmLow".

Monitoring RH4 (CheckLimitHigh4)

The "Monitoring RH4" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the limit "Reserve
High 4".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.

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Yes
No

Limit RH4 is monitored. The display value is displayed with the bar color RH4 as
soon as it exceeds the High Limit RH4.
Limit RH4 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next
monitored limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring RH4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckLimitHigh4".

Monitoring RH5 (CheckLimitHigh5)

The "Monitoring RH5" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the limit "Reserve
High 5".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit RH5 is monitored. The display value is displayed with the bar color RH5 as
soon as it exceeds the High Limit RH5.
Limit RH5 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next
monitored limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring RH5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckLimitHigh5".

Monitoring RL4 (CheckLimitLow4)

The "Monitoring RL4" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the limit "Reserve
Low 4".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.

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The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit RL4 is monitored. The display value is displayed with the bar color RL4 as
soon as it falls below the Low Limit RL4.
The limit RL4 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the value
falls below the next monitored limit.

The "Monitoring RL4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckLimitLow4".

Monitoring RL5 (CheckLimitLow5)

The "Monitoring RL5" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the limit "Reserve
Low 5".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit RL5 is monitored. The display value is displayed with the Bar Color RL5 as
soon as it falls below the Low Limit RL5.
Limit RL5 is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the value falls
below the next monitored limit.

The "Monitoring RL5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckLimitLow5".

Monitoring TH (CheckToleranceHigh)
The "Monitoring TH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the tolerance limit
"Tolerance High".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.

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The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit TH is monitored. The display value is displayed with the Bar Color TH as
soon as it exceeds the Limit TH.
Limit TH is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next
monitored limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring TH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckToleranceHigh".

Monitoring TL (CheckToleranceLow)
The "Monitoring TL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the tolerance limit
"Tolerance Low".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit TL is monitored. The display value is displayed with the Bar Color TL as soon
as it falls below the Limit TL.
Limit TL is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the value falls
below the next monitored limit.

The "Monitoring TL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckToleranceLow".

Monitoring WH (CheckWarningHigh)
The "Monitoring WH" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the warning limit
"Warning High".

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For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit WH is monitored. The display value is displayed with the Bar Color WH as
soon as it exceeds the Limit WH.
Limit WH is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the next
monitored limit is exceeded.

The "Monitoring WH" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckWarningHigh".

Monitoring WL (CheckWarningLow)
The "Monitoring WL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the monitoring of the warning limit
"Warning Low".
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
Yes
No

Limit WL is monitored. The display value is displayed with the Bar Color WL as
soon as it falls below the Limit WL.
Limit WL is not monitored. A color change only takes place when the value falls
below the next monitored limit.

The "Monitoring WL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CheckWarningLow".

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Low Limit Value (LimitMin)

The "Low Limit Value" attribute defines for the "I/O field" object the minimum limit value for
input and output. The specified value depends on the "data format" of the I/O field.
If a value is lower than the low limit value, the following effects are possible in Runtime:
Field type = "Input": The "WinCC Runtime" dialog is opened and displayed the error message
"The entered value is outside the configured limits".
Confirm the error message with "OK" and enter another value.
Field type = "Output": The display of the value is substituted by the character string "***".
The "Data Format" and "Field Type" attributes can be changed in the "Output / Input" property
group.
There is a free choice of value depending on the "data format" of the I/O field.
The "Low Limit Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LimitMin".

Alarm Low Limit AL (AlarmLow)

The "Alarm Low Limit AL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the lower limit value for the
alarm limit "Alarm Low". If the display value falls below the value specified here, it is displayed
in bar color AL.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Alarm Low Limit AL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AlarmLow".

Low Limit RL4 (LimitLow4)

The "Low Limit RL4" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the lower limit value for the limit
"Reserve Low 4". If the display value falls below the value specified here, it is displayed in bar
color RL4.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:

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The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Low Limit RL4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LimitLow4".

Low Limit RL5 (LimitLow5)

The "Limit RL5" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the lower limit value for the limit "Reserve
Low 5". If the display value falls below the value specified here, it is displayed in bar color RL5.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Low Limit RL5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LimitLow5".

Limit TL (ToleranceLow)
The "Limit TL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the lower limit value for the tolerance limit
"Tolerance Low". If the display value falls below the value specified here, it is displayed in bar
color TL.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:

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The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Limit TL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ToleranceLow".

Limit WL (WarningLow)
The "Limit WL" attribute defines for the "Bar" object the lower limit value for the warning limit
"Warning Low". If the display value falls below the value specified here, it is displayed in bar
color WL.
For the "Bar" object, up to 5 limits can be defined, each of which has an upper (High) and a
lower (Low) limit value. The limits are termed:
The "Upper Limit XH" and "Lower Limit XL" attributes specify the limit values for the
corresponding Limit X. The "Type X" attributes specify whether the specified limit values are
displayed as absolute values or as percentage values.
The "Bar Color XH" and "Bar Color XL" attributes can be used to assign a color to any Limit
X. The display value is shown in the corresponding color as soon as, starting from the zero
point of the bar display, it is higher than the corresponding Upper Limit XH or lower than the
Lower Limit XL. The "Change Color" attribute in the "Miscellaneous" property group specifies
whether this color change is to take place segment-wise or for the entire display.
The color change can only be displayed for a limit X if the "Monitoring X" attribute has the value
"Yes". If the "Limit Marker" attribute has the value "Display", the configured and monitored
limits are indicated by marking arrows. These limit markers receive the bar color of the
corresponding limit and are displayed on the side of the bar opposite the scale.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the value range that is to be
displayed with the object "Bar".
The "Limit WL" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "WarningLow".

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3.10.11

The "Background picture" property group

3.10.11.1 BackPictureName
The "Picture" attribute defines the name of the file that is used as the background image in the
process picture. The file must exist in the \GraCS subdirectory. If you assign the attribute in
the properties dialog, you can select it from any directory. The selection creates a copy in the
\GraCS directory.
Files of format EMF, WMF, DB, BMP, GIF, JPG, JPEG and ICO are suitable.
The "Picture" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackPictureName".

3.10.11.2 Show as (Back Picture Alignment)

The "Show as" attribute defines the method of displaying the background image of the process
picture.
Normal
Stretched (window)

Tiled
Stretched (picture)

The background picture is centered in the original size. When

opening the picture in runtime, it remains in the location.
The background picture is scaled to the larger of the two windows
runtime window and process picture. In runtime, it is scaled to the
size of the runtime window and is scaled further when opening.
Graphics Designer and process picture are exhibited with the picture
in its original size.
The background picture is scaled to the configured size of the
process picture. When opening the picture in runtime, it retains its
size.

The "Show as" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackPictureAlignment".

3.10.12

"Message Types" Property Group

3.10.12.1 Display Text (MCText)

The "Display Text" attribute is used to specify the type of text for the representation of a
message of the selected "Message Type".
The "Display Text" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "MCText".

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3.10.12.2 Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing (GNQBackFlash)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected
message type and the status "Went Out Unacknowledged" whether the background of the
value to be displayed flashes when a message goes out unacknowledged.
Yes
No

When a message goes out unacknowledged, the background of value to be

displayed flashes.
When a message goes out unacknowledged, the background of the displayed
value flashes.

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "GNQBackFlash."

3.10.12.3 Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing (MCGUBackFlash)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected
message type whether the background of the button flashes when a message goes out
unacknowledged.
Yes
No

When a message goes out unacknowledged, the background of the button flashes.
When a message goes out unacknowledged, the background of the button does
not flash.

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "MCGUBackFlash".

3.10.12.4 Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off (GNQBackColorOff)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected
message type and the status "Went Out Unacknowledged" which color the background of the
value to be displayed assumes for flashing status "Off" when a message goes out
unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "GNQBackColorOff".

3.10.12.5 Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off (MCGUBackColorOff)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected
message type which color the background of the button assumes for the flashing status "Off"
when a message goes out unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "MCGUBackColorOff".

3.10.12.6 Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On (GNQBackColorOn)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On" attribute specifies for the selected
message type and the status "Went Out Unacknowledged" which color the background of the

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value to be displayed assumes for flashing status "On" when a message goes out
unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "GNQBackColorOn".

3.10.12.7 Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On (MCGUBackColorOn)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On" attribute specifies for the selected
message type which color the background of the button assumes for the flashing status "On"
when a message goes out unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "MCGUBackColorOn".

3.10.12.8 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing (GNQTextFlash)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message
type and the status "Went Out Unacknowledged" whether the text of the value to be displayed
flashes when a message goes out unacknowledged.
Yes
No

When a message goes out unacknowledged, the text of the message flashes.
When a message goes out unacknowledged, the text of the message does not
flash.

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the
name "GNQTextFlash."

3.10.12.9 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing (MCGUTextFlash)

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message
type whether the text of the button flashes when a message goes out unacknowledged.
Yes
No

When a message goes out unacknowledged, the text of the button flashes.
When a message goes out unacknowledged, the text of the button does not flash.

The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the
name "MCGUTextFlash".

3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off (GNQTextColorOff)

0
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message
type and the status "Went Out Unacknowledged" which color the text of the button assumes
for flashing status "Off" when a message goes out unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the
name "GNQTextColorOff".

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3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off (MCGUTextColorOff)

1
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message
type which color the text of the button assumes for the flashing status "Off" when a message
goes out unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the
name "MCGUTextColorOff".

3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On (GNQTextColorOn)

2
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message
type and the status "Went Out Unacknowledged" which color the text of the button assumes
for flashing status "On" when a message goes out unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the
name "GNQTextColorOn".

3.10.12.1 Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On (MCGUTextColorOn)

3
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message
type which color the text of the button assumes for the flashing status "On" when a message
goes out unacknowledged.
The "Went Out Unacknowledged - Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the
name "MCGUTextColorOn".

3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Flashing (CBackFlash)

4
The "Came In - Background Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message type and
status "Came In" whether the background of the value to be displayed flashes.
Yes
No

When the message comes in, the background of the displayed value flashes.
When the message comes in, the background of the displayed value does not
flash.

The "Came In - Background Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"CBackFlash".

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3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Flashing (MCKOBackFlash)

5
The "Came In - Background Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message type
whether the background of the button flashes when a message comes in.
Yes
No

When the message comes in, the background of the button flashes.
When the message comes in, the background of the button does not flash.

The "Came In - Background Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKOBackFlash".

3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color Off (CBackColorOff)

6
The "Came In - Background Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message type which
color the background of the value to be displayed assumes for flashing status "Off" when a
message comes in.
The "Came In - Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"CBackColorOff".

3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color Off (MCKOBackColorOff)

7
The "Came In - Background Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message type which
color the background of the button assumes for the flashing status "Off" when a message
comes in.
The "Came In - Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKOBackColorOff".

3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color On (CBackColorOn)

8
The "Came In - Background Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message type which
color the background of the value to be displayed assumes for flashing status "On" when a
message comes in.
The "Came In - Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"CBackColorOn".

3.10.12.1 Came In - Background Color On (MCKOBackColorOn)

9
The "Came In - Background Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message type which
color the background of the button assumes for the flashing status "On" when a message
comes in.
The "Came In - Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKOBackColorOn".

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3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Flashing (CTextFlash)

0
The "Came In - Text Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message type and status
"Came In" whether the text of the value to be displayed flashes.
Yes
No

When the message comes in, the text of the value to be displayed flashes.
When the message comes in, the text of the value to be displayed does not flash.

The "Came In - Text Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the name "CTextFlash".

3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Flashing (MCKOTextFlash)

1
The "Came In - Text Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message type whether the
text of the button flashes when a message comes in.
Yes
No

When the message comes in, the text of the button flashes.
When the message comes in, the text of the button does not flash.

The "Came In - Text Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKOTextFlash".

3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color Off (CTextColorOff)

2
The "Came In - Text Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message type which color
the text of the button assumes for flashing status "Off" when a message comes in.
The "Came In - Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the name "CTextColorOff".

3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color Off (MCKOTextColorOff)

3
The "Came In - Text Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message type which color
the text of the button assumes for the flashing status "Off" when a message comes in.
The "Came In - Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKOTextColorOff".

3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color On (CTextColorOn)

4
The "Came In - Text Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message type which color
the text of the button assumes for flashing status "On" when a message comes in.
The "Came In - Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the name "CTextColorOn".

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3.10.12.2 Came In - Text Color On (MCKOTextColorOn)

5
The "Came In - Text Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message type which color
the text of the button assumes for the flashing status "On" when a message comes in.
The "Came In - Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKOTextColorOn".

3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing (CQBackFlash)

6
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected
message type and the status "Came In Acknowledged" whether the background of the value
to be displayed flashes when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
Yes
No

The background of the value to be displayed flashes when the arrival of a message
is acknowledged.
The background of the value to be displayed does not flash when the arrival of a
message is acknowledged.

The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "CQBackFlash".

3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing (MCKQBackFlash)

7
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected
message type whether the background of the button flashes when the arrival of a message is
acknowledged.
Yes
No

The background of the button flashes when the arrival of a message is

acknowledged.
The background of the button does not flash when the arrival of a message is
acknowledged.

The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "MCKQBackFlash".

3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off (CQBackColorOff)

8
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected
message type and the status "Came In Acknowledged" which color the background of the
value to be displayed assumes for flashing status "Off" when the arrival of a message is
acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "CQBackColorOff".

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3.10.12.2 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off (MCKQBackColorOff)

9
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected
message type which color the background of the button assumes for the flashing status "Off"
when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "MCKQBackColorOff".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On (CQBackColorOn)

0
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On" attribute specifies for the selected
message type and the status "Came In Acknowledged" which color the background of the
value to be displayed assumes for flashing status "On" when the arrival of a message is
acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "CQBackColorOn".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On (MCKQBackColorOn)

1
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On" attribute specifies for the selected
message type which color the background of the button assumes for the flashing status "On"
when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Background Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using
the name "MCKQBackColorOn".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing (CQTextFlash)

2
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message type
and the status "Came In Acknowledged" whether the text of the value to be displayed flashes
when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
Yes
No

The text of the value to be displayed flashes when the arrival of a message is
acknowledged.
The text of the value to be displayed does not flash when the arrival of a message
is acknowledged.

The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"CQTextFlash".

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3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing (MCKQTextFlash)

3
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute specifies for the selected message type
whether the text of the button flashes when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
Yes
No

The text of the button flashes when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
The text of the button does not flash when the arrival of a message is
acknowledged.

The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Flashing" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKQTextFlash".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off (CQTextColorOff)

4
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message
type and the state "Came In Acknowledged" which color the text of the value to be displayed
assumes for flashing status "Off" when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"CQTextColorOff".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off (MCKQTextColorOff)

5
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute specifies for the selected message
type which color the text of the button assumes for the flashing status "Off" when the arrival
of a message is acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color Off" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKQTextColorOff".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On (CQTextColorOn)

6
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message
type and the status "Came In Acknowledged" which color the text of the value to be displayed
assumes for flashing status "On" when the arrival of a message is acknowledged.
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"CQTextColorOn".

3.10.12.3 Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On (MCKQTextColorOn)

7
The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On" attribute specifies for the selected message
type which color the text of the button assumes for the flashing status "On" when the arrival
of a message is acknowledged.

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The "Came In Acknowledged - Text Color On" attribute can be made dynamic using the name
"MCKQTextColorOn".

3.10.12.3 Message Type (MessageClass)

8
The "Message Type" attribute shows all message types that can be configured for the group
display and the extended analog and status display. They configure the type of message using
a bit in the group value.
For each message type, you can configure the following attributes for the statuses "Came in",
"Came in acknowledged" and "Went unacknowledged":
Font color
Background color
Flashing text
Flashing background
A change of attribute applies to the selected message type.
The "Message Type" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "MessageClass".

3.10.13

The "Object" Property Group

3.10.13.1 Layer (Layer)

The "Layer" attribute specifies the position of an object in the picture.
In the Graphics Designer, a picture consists of 32 layers in which the objects can be inserted.
Objects of the layer 0 are located at the screen background, while objects of the layer 32 are
located in the foreground.
Depending on certain events, the Layer object can be used with VBScript to obtain access to
the properties of a complete layer in order, for example, to hide or unhide a layer with operating
elements according to the operator authorization. More information is available in the VBS
Reference in the Information System.
0 - 31

There is a free choice of layer for each object.

The "Layer" attribute cannot be changed in Runtime. However, layers can be hidden or
unhidden in Runtime.

3.10.13.2 Faceplate Type FPT

The "Faceplate type" attribute shows the file name of the respective faceplate type.
The attribute is defined by selecting the faceplate type and cannot be changed.
The "Faceplate type" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

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3.10.13.3 Window Contents (Application)

The "Window Contents" attribute specifies for an application window which application is to be
displayed. Application windows can be supplied from applications of the Global Script and the
report system. In Runtime, these applications open an application window, transfer information
and enable operation.
Global Scripts The application window is supplied by applications of the Global Script.
Print Jobs
The application window is supplied by the report system.
The "Window Contents" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.13.4 Object Name (ObjectName)

The "Object Name" attribute specifies the name of an object in the picture. The object name
is unique within a picture and, for example, is used in the project engineering of C actions for
the call instruction of the object.
When an object is inserted, the object name assigned as standard is the description of the
object type with a consecutive number. This name can be changed using the "Object Name"
attribute.
There is a free choice of object name and it can have a length of up to 128 characters without
restriction.
The "Object Name" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.13.5 Template (Template)

The "Template" attribute specifies for an application window which template is to be used for
display of the window contents. The available templates depend on the value of the "Window
Contents" attribute.
Application windows can be supplied from applications of the Global Script and the report
system.
GSC Diagnostics

The application window is supplied by applications of the Global Script.

The results of the diagnosis system are displayed.
GSC Runtime
The application window is supplied by applications of the Global Script.
The analysis results regarding characteristics in Runtime are displayed.
All Jobs
The application window is supplied by the report system. The available
reports are displayed as a list.
All Jobs Shortcut The application window is supplied by the report system. The available
Menu
reports are displayed as a list. The shortcut menu enables the selection
of print options, display of a print preview as well as a printout of the log.

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Job Detail View

Selected Jobs Shortcut Menu

The application window is supplied by the report system. The available

reports are displayed in a selection menu. Detailed information is
displayed for the selected report.
The application window is supplied by the logging system. The available
reports are displayed as a list. This list only contains reports which you
have activated the option "Mark for print job list" in the "Print Job
Properties" dialog. The shortcut menu enables the selection of print
options, display of a print preview as well as a printout of the log.

The "Template" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.14

"Font" Property Group

3.10.14.1 Bold (FontBold)

The "Bold" attribute specifies whether or not the text in an object is displayed as bold.
Yes
No

The text is displayed in bold face.

The text is not displayed in bold face.

The "Bold" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FontBold".

3.10.14.2 Format (Format)

The "Format" attribute shows in which format the value of the analog display is displayed.
No Character
(0)
(#)
(.)
(%)
(,)
( ( E- E+ e- e+ )
-+$()

Displays the number without formatting.

Displays a digit or a zero.
Displays a digit or no output.
Placeholder for decimal character.
Placeholder for percentage.
Thousand separator.
Scientific format.
Display of a literal character.

Display the next character in the format character sequence.

( ( "ABC" )

Displays the string in inverted commas (" ").

The "Format" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Format".

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3.10.14.3 Index (Index)

The "Index" attribute is a help attribute that is used in the "Object properties" dialog for
accessing text of fields or lines of the object.
The number of the fields of an object is defined with the "Number of Boxes" attribute in the
"Geometry" properties group to determine the supply of values for the "Index" attribute.
The number of the lines of an object is defined with the "Number of rows" attribute in the
"Geometry" properties group to determine the supply of values for the "Index" attribute.
Use the "Index" attribute to set the position number of the field or the line that you want to
display or edit. The content of the field or the line is shown as a value of the "Text" attribute.
Changing the "Index" attribute also changes the displayed value of the "Text" attribute.
1 - "Number of
Check Box, Radio Box
Boxes"
1 - "Number of rows" Combination field, List field
The "Index" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Index".

3.10.14.4 Italic (FontItalic)

The "Italic" attribute specifies whether or not the text in an object is displayed in italics.
Yes
No

The text is displayed in italic.

The text is not displayed in italic.

The "Italic" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FontItalic".

3.10.14.5 Text Orientation (Orientation)

The "Text Orientation" attribute specifies whether a text appears with a vertical or horizontal
orientation. Changing the attribute only changes the position of the text within an object, while
the object itself remains unchanged.
Horizontal
Vertical

The orientation of the text is from left to right.

The orientation of the text is from top to bottom.

The "Text Orientation" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Orientation".

3.10.14.6 Text (Text)

The "Text" attribute specifies the text for a text field. Here, for example, buttons can be labeled.
In the case of the objects "Check Box" and "Option Group", each text field is selected
individually via the "Index" attribute.
Line breaks must be entered manually: You can create a line break with either <SHIFT
+ENTER> or <CTRL+M>.

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A line brake is shown in the "Object Properties" window in the "Static" column as a control
character.
A text of any length can be entered. A meaningful limit results from the object size.
The "Text" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Text".

3.10.14.7 Underline (FontUnderline)

The "Underline" attribute specifies whether or not the text in an object is displayed as
underlined.
Yes
No

The text is displayed as underlined.

The text is not displayed as underlined.

The "Underline" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FontUnderline".

3.10.14.8 X alignment (AlignmentLeft)

The "X Alignment" attribute specifies the horizontal alignment of a text in an object. Changing
the attribute only changes the position of the text within an object, while the object itself remains
unchanged.
On left
centered
right

The text is aligned to the left in the object.

The text is centered horizontally in the object.
The text is aligned to the right in the object.

The "X Alignment" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AlignmentLeft".

3.10.14.9 Y alignment (AlignmentTop)

The "Y Alignment" attribute specifies the vertical alignment of a text in an object. Changing the
attribute only changes the position of the text within an object, while the object itself remains
unchanged.
top
centered
bottom

The text is aligned to the top of the object.

The text is centered vertically in the object.
The text is aligned to the bottom of the object.

The "Y Alignment" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "AlignmentTop".

3.10.14.1 Font (FontName)

0
The "Font" attribute specifies in which font a text appears. You can use every font that is
installed in the Windows operating system.
If a selected font is not available on a system, the text is automatically displayed in "Arial".
Any of the fonts installed in the Windows operating system can be selected.
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The "Font" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Font Name".

3.10.14.1 Font Size (FontSize)

1
The "Font Size" attribute specifies in which font size a text appears. The values are specified
in points.
The size of the font can be set between 1 point and 127 points.
The "Font Size" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FontSize".

3.10.15

"Miscellaneous" Property Group

3.10.15.1 Others - A to B
Update Cycle (UpdateCycle)
The "Update Cycle" attribute defines the type and the frequency for updating a process picture.
The value specified here corresponds to the "picture cycle", which can be set as the update
cycle for individual objects. In this case, the display of these objects will be updated at the
same time as the display of the process picture.
The "Update Cycle" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Update Cycle (UpdateCycle)

The "Update Cycle" defines the type and the frequency of the update for a picture window.
The "Update Cycle" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Display (Visible)
The "Display" attribute specifies whether or not a process picture is displayed in Runtime.
Yes
No

The process picture is displayed in Runtime.

The process picture is not displayed in Runtime.

The "Display" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Visible".

Display (Visible)
The "Display" attribute specifies whether or not an object is displayed in Runtime.
Yes
No

776

The object is displayed in Runtime.

The object is not displayed in Runtime.

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The "Display" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Visible".

Display Options (DisplayOptions)

The "Display Options" attribute specifies whether a button will be allocated with a picture or
text or both.
0
1
2
3

Picture or text: If a picture exists, the button is assigned with the picture, otherwise
it is assigned with text.
Picture and text
Text only
Picture only

The "Display Options" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "DisplayOptions".

Operator-Control Enable (Operation)

The "Operator-Control Enable" attribute specifies whether or not a process picture can be
operated in Runtime.
In order to be able to operate a process picture, the operator must have the relevant
authorization. You specify this with the "Authorization" attribute.
Yes
No

The process picture can be operated in Runtime.

The process picture cannot be operated in Runtime.

The "Operator-Control Enable" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Operation".

Operator-Control Enable (Operation)

The "Operator-Control Enable" attribute specifies whether or not an object can be operated in
Runtime.
In order to be able to operate an object, the operator must have the relevant authorization.
You specify this with the "Authorization" attribute.
Yes
No

The object can be operated in Runtime.

The object cannot be operated in Runtime.

The "Operator-Control Enable" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Operation".
With WinCC Alarm Control, the attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Operator Input Message (OperationMessage)

The "Operator Input Message" attribute specifies whether or not a message is displayed after
an operation. If the attribute "Operator Input Message" has been set to "yes", a message is
generated upon operation, sent to the message system and archived. Using the message
system, a message may be output in a message line, for example.

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So that the operator can enter a reason for the operation after its completion, the "Operator
Activities Report" attribute must be enabled. The reason for the operator input is displayed as
a comment for the operator input message in the long-term archive list.
Yes
No

An operator output message is displayed.

An operator output message is not displayed.

The "Operator Input Message" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"OperationMessage".

Operator Actions Report (OperationReport)

The "Operator Activities Report" attribute specifies whether the reason for an operation will be
logged by the operator. The operator activities report is archived in the message system. The
reason for the operator input is displayed as a comment for the operator input message in the
long-term archive list.
Yes
No

The reason for the operation is logged. On operation of the object, a dialog opens
in Runtime in which the operator can enter a text.
The reason for the operation is not logged.

The "Operator Activities Report" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"OperationReport".

Operation Steps (SmallChange)

The "Operation Steps" attribute specifies for the slider the number of steps the slider is moved
in the corresponding direction with one mouse-click on the slide surface.
The number of times to click on the slider surface for the slider to move from one end to the
other is calculated as follows: ("maximum value" - "minimum value") / "operation steps".
Example: Where maximum value = 100, minimum value = 0, operation steps = 25 the slider
surface must be clicked four times to move the slider from one end to the other.
With one mouse-click on the slide surface, the slider can be set to the minimum or maximum
value if the "Extended Operation" attribute has the value "Yes".
There is a free choice of value.
The "Operation Steps" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SmallChange".

User Value (UserValue1)

The "User Value 1" to "User Value 4" attributes make it possible to enter sample values for a
group display. Any values can be entered and, for example, evaluated in a script. In Runtime,
the entered user values are neither displayed nor evaluated.
0 (232-1)

The value can be chosen freely within the specified limits.

The "User Value 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "UserValue1".
The "User Value 2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "UserValue2", etc.

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Authorization (PasswordLevel)
The User Administrator editor is used in WinCC to assign authorizations for the users. In the
Graphics Designer, an authorization can be assigned for each process picture, which means
that this process picture can only be operated by those users who have the corresponding
authorization.
So that a process picture can be operated, the "Operator-Control Enable" attribute must have
the value "Yes".
The "Authorization" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PasswordLevel".

Authorization (PasswordLevel)
The User Administrator editor is used in WinCC to assign authorizations for the users. In the
Graphics Designer, an authorization can be assigned for each object, which means that this
object can only be operated by those users who have the corresponding authorization.
So that an object can be operated, the "Operator-Control Enable" attribute must have the value
"Yes".
The "Authorization" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PasswordLevel".

Adapt Picture (AdaptPicture)

The "Adapt Picture" attribute specifies whether or not the picture displayed in a picture window
adapts to the size of the picture window in Runtime.
Yes
No

The picture adapts to the size of the picture window in Runtime.

The picture does not adapt to the size of the picture window in Runtime.

The "Adapt Picture" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Picture Status Off (PictureUp)

A button can have one of two statuses: "On" or "Off".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. Pictures with the following formats
can be inserted: BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in the
"Picture Selection" dialog.
The "Picture Status Off" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PictureUp".

Picture Status On (PictureDown)

A button can have one of two statuses: "On" or "Off".
For each status, a picture to be displayed can be selected. Pictures with the following formats
can be inserted: BMP, DIB, ICO, CUR, EMF, WMF, GIF and JPG.
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in the
"Picture Selection" dialog.
The "Picture Status On" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PictureDown".

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Picture Name (PictureName)

The "Picture Name" attribute specifies which picture is displayed in a picture window. Only
pictures of the format PDL that belong to the current project can be inserted.
If no picture to be displayed is defined for a picture window, the picture window is not displayed
in Runtime.
The "Picture Name" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PictureName".

Picture Offset X (OffsetLeft)

A process picture that is embedded in a picture window can only be displayed as a zoom area.
The origin of this zoom area is determined by the "Picture Offset X" and "Picture Offset Y"
attributes.
The "Picture Offset X" specifies the horizontal coordinates for the origin of the zoom area. The
values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the size of the integrated picture.
The "Picture Offset X" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "OffsetLeft".

Picture Offset Y (OffsetTop)

A process picture that is embedded in a picture window can only be displayed as a zoom area.
The origin of this zoom area is determined by the "Picture Offset X" and "Picture Offset Y"
attributes.
The "Picture Offset Y" specifies the vertical coordinates for the origin of the zoom area. The
values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the size of the integrated picture.
The "Picture Offset Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "OffsetTop".

Bit Pattern Group Display (SignificantMask)

The value of the attribute is an internal system output value. The value is updated if the group
display is clicked for a loop-in-alarm.
The "Bit Pattern Group Display" attribute should not be made dynamic by the user.

3.10.15.2 Others - C to O
Cursor Mode
The "Cursor Mode" attribute specifies whether a process picture is operated in Runtime by
means of an "Alpha Cursor" or a "Tab Order".
The cursor mode can be toggled in Runtime if a hotkey is configured for the toggle.
Alpha-Cursor
Tab Order

780

Operation in Runtime is by means of the Alpha Cursor.

Operation in Runtime is by means of Tab Order.
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The "Cursor Mode" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Cursor Control (CursorControl)

The "Cursor Control" attribute specifies whether the Alpha Cursor automatically jumps to the
next field in the TAB sequence after an entry has been made in a field. This function enables
rapid input in different fields without having to use the tab key to jump.
Yes
No

The cursor automatically jumps to the next field of the TAB sequence after the
input has been made.
The cursor does not automatically jump to the next field of the TAB sequence after
the input has been made.

The "Cursor Control" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CursorControl".

Date of Last Change

The "Date of Last Change" attribute shows the date on which the process picture was last
saved.
The "Date of Last Change" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Immediate Input (EditAtOnce)

The "Immediate Input" attribute specifies for input fields whether or not a direct change is made
into the input mode on jumping to the object.
Yes
No

When the focus moves to the object, the input mode is immediately active.
When the focus moves to the object, the input mode is not immediately active.

The "Immediate Input" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "EditAtOnce".

Extended Operation (ExtendedOperation)

The "Extended Operation" attribute specifies whether the slider jumps on the slide surface in
one step to the minimum value or maximum value when clicked.
Yes
No

With one mouse-click on the slide surface, the slider jumps to the minimum value
or maximum value.
With a mouse-click on the slide surface, the slider is moved in the corresponding
direction by the value set in the "Operation Steps" attribute.

The "Extended Operation" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ExtendedOperation".

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Extended Zooming (ExtendedZoomingEnable)

The "Extended Zooming" specifies whether the picture can be zoomed in on or out of for the
selected process picture with the mouse wheel. Requirements for using the zoom function:
a mouse driver by Logitech or Microsoft Intellimouse
the mouse wheel must be set to "Autoscroll".
The "Extended Zooming" function must be enabled in the "Graphics Runtime" tab of the
"Computer Properties" dialog for all process pictures.
Yes

No

The mouse wheel can be used to zoom in on or out of the picture. Press the
<CTRL> key in Runtime, while you turn the mouse wheel. If you turn the mouse
wheel away from the palm of your hand, you increase the zoom factor.
Rotating the mouse wheel does not zoom in on or out of the picture, even if
extended zooming is enabled for all process pictures.

The "Extended Zooming" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"ExtendedZoomingEnable".

Change Color (ColorChangeType)

The "Change Color" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether a color change is run
segment-wise or for the entire bar. With segment-wise display, for example, it is possible to
visualize which limits are exceeded by the displayed value.
Total
Segment

When a limit is reached, the entire bar changes color.

When a limit is reached, the bar changes segment by segment. The
color allocation takes place in accordance with the settings in the "Limits"
property group.

The "Change Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ColorChangeType".

Adapt Size (AdaptSize)

The "Adapt Size" attribute specifies whether or not the picture window adapts to the size of
the embedded picture in Runtime.
Yes
No

The picture window adapts to the size of the picture in Runtime.

The picture window does not adapt to the size of the picture in Runtime.

The "Adapt Size" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

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Windows Position Mode

The "Window mode" attribute defines the position and scaling of the picture window on the
screen. It is only effective if the "Independent window" attribute is set to "Yes".
Standard
Center
Maximize

The picture window is positioned in its original size in the configured position
on the screen.
The picture window is positioned in its original size, centered on the screen.
The picture window is scaled to the size of the screen.

The "Window mode" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "WindowPositionMode".

Outgoing State Visible (AlarmGoneVisible)

The attribute "Outgoing State Visible" defines for an object whether an outgoing state is visible
or not.
Yes
No

The outgoing state is visible

The outgoing state is suppressed

The "Outgoing State Visible" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"AlarmGoneVisible".

Sizeable (Sizeable)
The "Sizeable" attribute specifies whether or not the size of a window can be changed in
Runtime.
Yes
No

The size of the window can be changed in Runtime.

The size of the window cannot be changed in Runtime.

The "Sizeable" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Hotkey (Hotkey)
As an alternative to operation with the mouse, a button can also be triggered using the
keyboard.
To do so, a hotkey must be set.
If a hotkey has been defined for a button, an arrow is displayed in the object properties beside
the "Hotkey" attribute.
The "Hotkey" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Hysteresis (Hysteresis)
So that a color change is not triggered immediately in the case of a slight limit violation, the
"Hysteresis" and "Hysteresis Range" attributes can be used to define a distribution range for
the display of the value.

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The "Hysteresis" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether the display with hysteresis is
permitted or not.
Set the hysteresis value with the "Hysteresis Range" attribute.
Yes
No

Display with hysteresis.

Display without hysteresis.

The "Hysteresis" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Hysteresis".

Hysteresis Range (HysteresisRange)

So that a color change is not triggered immediately in the case of a slight limit violation, the
"Hysteresis" and "Hysteresis Range" attributes can be used to define a distribution range for
the display of the value.
The "Hysteresis Range" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object the hysteresis as a percentage
of the display range.
The "Hysteresis Range" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "HysteresisRange".

Maximum Value (Max)

The "Maximum Value" attribute specifies the absolute value for display of the largest value for
bars, 3D bars and sliders.
The hysteresis range is only taken into account if the "Hysteresis" attribute has the value "Yes".
There is a free choice of value.
The "Maximum Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Max".

Can Be Maximized (MaximizeButton)

The "Can Be Maximized" attribute specifies whether or not a window can be enlarged to the
maximum screen size in Runtime.
The attributes "Can Be Maximized" and "Can Be Closed" are displayed in the title bar; if one
of the attributes has the value "Yes", the "Title" attribute is automatically assigned the value
"Yes".
Yes
No

The window can be maximized in Runtime.

The window cannot be maximized in Runtime.

The "Can Be Maximized" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Configuration of Menu/Toolbars
Defines the configuration file using the user-defined menus and toolbars that are displayed in
the picture screen.
The "Configuration of menu/toolbars" attribute cannot be made dynamic using the
"MenuToolBarConfig" name.

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Minimum Value (Min)

The "Minimum Value" attribute specifies the absolute value for display of the smallest value
for bars, 3D bars and sliders.
There is a free choice of value.
The "Minimum Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Min".

Average Value (Average)

The "Average Value" attribute specifies for the "Bar" object whether or not a mean value of
the last 15 values is formed.
Yes
No

An average value of the last 15 values is formed.

An average value is not formed.

The "Average Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Average".

Monitor number (WindowMonitorNumber)

The "Monitor number" attribute specifies the monitor that displays the picture window. This
requires that your system supports more than one monitor.
The attribute is only effective if the "Independent window" attribute is set to "Yes".
1-n

The number of the monitor in the operating system on which the picture window is
displayed.

The "Monitor number" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"WindowMonitorNumber".

Zero Point Value (ZeroPointValue)

The "Zero Point Value" attribute specifies the absolute value for the zero point of bars or 3D
bars.
The display of the zero point value on the scale is specified using the "Zero Point" attribute in
the "Axis" property group.
There is a free choice of value within the limits of "minimum value" and "maximum value".
The "Zero Point Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ZeroPointValue".

3.10.15.3 Others - P to S
Process Driver Connection (Process)
If an object of the type "Bar", "3D Bar" or "Slider" is not embedded using a tag in the process,
the object accesses a preset value in Runtime and displays this value.

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The "Process Driver Connection" attribute specifies the default setting for the value to be
displayed.
There is a free choice of value.
The "Process Driver Connection" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process".

Acknowledgment Sample (EventQuitMask)

The events "ToleranceLow," "ToleranceHigh," "Operator Request," and "Measuring point
blocked" are not acknowledgeable events in the PCS7 environment. These events are
automatically indicated as being acknowledged during the group display calculations using the
"@EventQuit" tag.
To eliminate flashing, the "Acknowledgment mask" is used to automatically indicate the events
"ToleranceLow," "ToleranceHigh," "Operator Request," and "Measuring point blocked" as
being acknowledged when the group display object is displayed.
The attribute is assigned a default start value of 0x00000C11 (3089). These are precisely the
acknowledgment bits for "ToleranceLow," "ToleranceHigh," "Operator Request," and
"Measuring point blocked." By setting other acknowledgment bits, you can indicate other
events as being acknowledged as well with the display of the group display object and the
extended analog and status display.
With new projects as of WinCC V7.01, you can configure messages of the "Tolerance"
message class as mandatory acknowledgement messages. The option is selected in the OS
Project Editor. This causes the events "ToleranceLow" and "ToleranceHigh" to be identified
as not acknowledged. The start value of the attribute is then 0x00000011 (17).
The value of the attribute should be identical for all group, analog, and status display objects
as well as for the "@EventQuit" tag.

Border (WindowBorder)
The "Border" attribute specifies whether or not an application window or picture window is to
be displayed with a border.
If the "Sizeable" attribute for a window is set to the value "Yes", the "Border" attribute
automatically assumes the value "Yes".
So that the picture window is displayed in Runtime, a picture must be embedded.
Yes
No

The window is displayed with a border.

The window is displayed without a border.

The "Border" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Adapt Border (AdaptBorder)

The "Adapt Border" attribute defines for objects that contain text whether the field border adapts
dynamically to the text size.
The dynamic change of the text in the field can mean that the field size changes continuously
in Runtime.
The performance in Runtime is higher if the "Adapt Border" attribute has the value "No".

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Yes
No

The field border resizes dynamically to fit the text size.

The field border retains its size regardless of the text.

The "Flash Picture" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Scroll Bars (ScrollBars)

The "Scroll Bars" attribute specifies whether or not a picture window is displayed with a scroll
bar if required. This setting is only visible in Runtime.
The "Scroll Bars", "Adapt Size" and "Adapt Picture" attributes can influence one another.
Yes
No

The picture window is displayed in Runtime with scroll bars if the picture to be
displayed does not fit in the picture window.
The picture window is always displayed in Runtime without scroll bars, even if the
picture to be displayed does not fit in the picture window.

The "Scroll Bars" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Scroll Bar Position X (ScrollPositionX)

The "Scroll Bar Position X" attribute specifies the horizontal movement of the scroll bar position
in a picture window with the scroll bar. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the size of the integrated picture.
The "Scroll Bar Position X" can be made dynamic with the name "ScrollPositionX".

Scroll Bar Position Y (ScrollPositionY)

The "Scroll Bar Position Y" attribute specifies the vertical movement of the scroll bar position
in a picture window with the scroll bar. The values are specified in pixels.
There is a free choice of value. A meaningful limit results from the size of the integrated picture.
The "Scroll Bar Position Y" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ScrollPositionY".

Group Relevant (Relevant)

All displays in a class can be grouped hierarchically into a group display. This makes possible
a rapid overview of alarms, warnings and malfunctions.
The "Group Relevant" attribute specifies for the object whether or not the object is taken into
account for the formation of the group, extended analog or status display.
Yes
No

The object is taken into account for the formation of the group display.
The object is not taken into account for the formation of the group display.

The "Group Relevant" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Relevant".

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Collect Value (CollectValue)

All displays in a class can be grouped hierarchically into a group display. This makes possible
a rapid overview of alarms, warnings and malfunctions.
The "Collect Value" attribute specifies as an initial value the current status of the active
message classes in each case.
So that an object of the group display type is taken into account for the formation of the group,
extended analog or status display, the "Group Relevant" attribute must have the value
"Yes".
When a new group display is inserted, it has the collect value 65535 as start value. In this
manner, you can ensure that at the start - from the view of the group display - there are no
unacknowledged messages.
The group value is controlled by a tag. Other types of dynamization are not possible.

Use Group Value for Display (UseEventState)

The "Use Group Value for Display" attributed defines for the extended status display whether
the group value is evaluated for the display of the statuses.
If the group value is used, you can assign pictures for the individual alarm statuses.
Yes
No

The group value is taken into consideration for the display of the extended status
display.
The group value is not taken into consideration for the display of the extended
status display.

The attribute "Use Group Value for Display" can be made dynamic with the name
"UseEventState".

Can be Closed (CloseButtton)

The "Can Be Closed" attribute specifies whether or not a window can be closed in Runtime.
The attributes "Can Be Maximized" and "Can Be Closed" are displayed in the title bar; if one
of the attributes has the value "Yes", the "Title" attribute is automatically assigned the value
"Yes".
Yes
No

The window can be closed in Runtime.

The window cannot be closed in Runtime.

The "Can Be Closed" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Selected text (SelText)

The "Selected text" attribute shows the text defined with the "Selected box" attribute, which is
highlighted in the object.
You cannot directly change the "Selected text" attribute. You change the "Selected text"
attribute by changing the "Selected box" attribute or the text itself in the "Font" properties group.
The "Selected text" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SelText".

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Selected box (SelIndex)

The "Selected box" attribute defines the index, the text of which is highlighted in the
combination field or the list field.
1 - Number of
rows

Index of the highlighted field

The "Selected Box" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SelIndex".

Server Prefix (ServerPrefix)

Pictures that are embedded can be stored on any server in a multi-client system. Either the
server is specified directly on embedding a picture, or assigned later via the object properties
of the picture window.
The "Server Prefix" attribute specifies on which server the picture to be displayed in the picture
window is located.
Changes to the server prefix only take effect when the picture is loaded once again. When the
picture is changed, this occurs automatically, otherwise the picture name must be reassigned.
The "Server Prefix" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ServerPrefix".

ServerName (ServerName)
The "ServerName" attribute indicates under which name an embedded object is registered in
the Windows operating system. A change of the registration is not possible in the Graphics
Designer.
The "ServerName" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Simulation (Simulation)
With the "Simulation" attribute, you define the linking with any tag which is used for simulation.
The "Simulation" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Simulation".

Simulation Bit (SimulationBit)

The "Simulation Bit" attribute shows the bit position of the linked simulation tags that are used
for evaluation.
The value of the simulation tag is only evaluated with the alarm status "OK".
The "Simulation Bit" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "SimulationBit".

Scaling Factor (Zoom)

The "Scaling Factor" attribute sets the zoom factor for the display of the picture in the picture
window. The values are specified as a percentage.
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The "Scaling Factor" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Zoom".

Scaling Mode
The "Scaling mode" attribute defines the size to display the objects of the faceplate instance.
Default
1:1

proportional

Like scaling mode "proportional"

The faceplate type is displayed centered in the original size in the
faceplate instance. If the faceplate instance is too small, its size is
adapted to the size of the faceplate type.
The faceplate type is scaled in proportion with the size of the faceplate
instance.

The "Scaling mode" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Configured Languages (DataLanguage)

The "Configured Languages" attribute specifies in which language variant an entry in a text
object is displayed.
The "Configured Languages" attribute can only be modified if the individual languages have
been set beforehand in the "View" "Languages" menu. With the "Configured Languages"
attribute, configured languages can only be deleted, not added.
The "Configured Languages" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Status (ProcessValue)
With the "Status" attribute, you define the linking with any tag.
The "Status" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ProcessValue".

Status1 (Process)
In the "Status1" attribute, you can preset the first tag used for the calculation of the status value
for the extended status display. In the configuration dialog of the extended status display, you
can define the bit position taken into account for the status value calculation of this tag. This
results in the statuses, to which you can then assign pictures.
The "Status1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process".

Status2 (Process1)
In the "Status2" attribute, you can preset the second tag used for the calculation of the status
value for the extended status display. In the configuration dialog of the extended status display,
you can define the bit position taken into account for the status value calculation of this tag.
This results in the statuses, to which you can then assign pictures.
The "Status2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process1".

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Status3 (Process2)
In the "Status3" attribute, you can preset the third tag used for the calculation of the status
value for the extended status display. In the configuration dialog of the extended status display,
you can define the bit position taken into account for the status value calculation of this tag.
This results in the statuses, to which you can then assign pictures.
The "Status3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process2".

Status4 (Process3)
In the "Status4" attribute, you can preset the fourth tag used for the calculation of the status
value for the extended status display. In the configuration dialog of the extended status display,
you can define the bit position taken into account for the status value calculation of this tag.
This results in the statuses, to which you can then assign pictures.
The "Status4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Process3".

3.10.15.4 Others - T to Z
Tag (tag)
The "Tag" attribute is used for the Tool Graphic Object Update Wizard and is not evaluated
for the object.
The "Tag" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "tag".

Tagname (tagname)
The attribute "Tag Name" is used for the Tool Graphic Object Update Wizard and is not
evaluated for the object.
The "Tag Name" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "tagname."

Tagtype (tagtype)
The "Tag Type" attribute is used for the Tool Graphic Object Update Wizard and is not
evaluated for the object.
The "Tag Type" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "tagtype."

Text Reference (LanguageSwitch)

The "Text Reference" attribute specifies where the language-dependent assignment texts are
stored:
Yes
No

The texts are managed in the text library. They are translated into other languages
in the text library.
The texts are managed directly in the object.

The "Text Reference" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

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Title (Caption)
The "Title" attribute specifies whether a window is displayed in Runtime with or without a title
bar.
The attributes "Can Be Maximized" and "Can Be Closed" are displayed in the title bar; if one
of the attributes has the value "Yes", the "Title" attribute is automatically assigned the value
"Yes".
Yes
No

In Runtime, the window is displayed with a title bar.

In Runtime, the window is displayed without a title bar.

The "Title" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Tooltip text (ToolTipText)

The "Tooltip text" attribute specifies the tooltip text to display in Runtime by positioning the
mouse pointer on the object. The tooltip text can be entered for all available languages.
To define a tooltip text which contains the special character "&", enter three successive
commercial ampersands, e.g.:
Save &&& Close
Two "&" have the effect of underlining the next character.
One "&" has no effect.
The "Tooltip text" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means of the name
"ToolTipText".

Trend (trend)
The attribute "Trend" is used for the Tool Graphic Object Update Wizard and is not evaluated
for the object.
The "Trend" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "trend."

Trend (Trend)
The trend display enables a fast overview of changes for the bar. As standard, when the values
shown in the scale are exceeded, a small arrow is displayed beside the scale to indicate that
the measured value cannot be displayed on the scale. In order to avoid having to wait for the
next update, an additional arrow can be shown on the other side of the bar to show the trend
of the current movement of the bar.
The "Trend" attribute specifies whether or not the trend is displayed.
Yes
No

The trend is displayed.

The trend is not displayed.

The "Trend" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Trend".

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Caption (CaptionText)
The "Caption" attribute specifies which text appears in the title of a picture window.
The "Caption" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "CaptionText".

Independent window
The "Independent window" attribute defines whether the display of the picture window in
runtime depends on the process picture in which the picture window was configured.
Yes
No

Size and position of the picture window change with the shift or scaling of the process
picture
Size and position of the picture window are independent of the process picture and
only defined by the "Window mode" attribute

The "Independent window" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"IndependentWindow".

Tag Prefix (TagPrefix)

WinCC offers a wide variety of possibilities to define and structure tags. For a picture window,
a tag prefix can be assigned to precede all tags that are used in the picture. In this way, a
picture that is embedded in a picture window retains access to its own tags while another
accesses other tags.
The "Tag Prefix" attribute specifies the prefix that is placed before all tags present in the picture.
Changes to the tag prefix only take effect when the picture is loaded once again. When the
picture is changed, this occurs automatically, otherwise the picture name must be reassigned.
The prefix can be freely defined, but must match the name of the structure tags. It must end
with a period, for example "Structure2.".
The "Tag Prefix" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "TagPrefix".
The TagPrefix property is not available for the controls.

Visualize tag status (ShowBadTagState)

The "Visualize tag status" attribute defines whether the graphic object is grayed out when a
bad QualityCode or tag status is detected. For both objects "extended analog display" and
"extended status display," the attribute determines whether the settings for attributes "Grid
Color of Quality code: "bad" and "Grid Color of Quality code: "uncertain" are used.
Yes
No

If the quality code or the the tag status are poor, the object is grayed out or the
settings for the grid color are used.
If the quality code or the the tag status are poor, the object is not grayed out or
the settings for the grid color are not used.

The "Visualize tag status" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ShowBadTagState".

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Movable (Moveable)
The "Movable" attribute specifies whether or not a window can be moved in Runtime.
Yes
No

The window can be moved in Runtime.

The window can not be moved in Runtime.

The "Movable" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Foreground (OnTop)
The "Foreground" attribute specifies whether or not a window lies in the foreground. This
setting is independent of the layer in which the window lies.
If two windows overlap, and they both have the value "Yes" for the "Foreground" attribute, the
settings exclude one another.
Yes
No

The window is always in the foreground.

The window is not always in the foreground.

The "Foreground" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

Value (OutputValue)
With the attribute "Value", you define the linking with any analog/text tag. The analog display
represents the value of this tag in the configured colors depending on the alarm state.
The "Value" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "OutputValue".

Value as Text (UseValueText)

The attribute "Value as Text" shows whether a text tag is linked instead of a formatted analog
value.
Yes
No

The value is linked with a text tag.

The value is not linked with a text tag

The "Value as Text" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "UseValueText".

Inherit status [WinCC V6]

The statuses of the "Display" and "Use release" properties of the user object can be inherited
by the individual objects of the user object.
Example: You have configured the "Inherit status" properties for the user object with "Yes" and
"Display" as "Visible". One object of the user object has the property "invisible". If the user
object is now made invisible and then again visible, then all objects of the user object are
shown as visible even if one object of the user object has the property "invisible".
The "Inherit Status" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

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3.10.16

"Lock" Property Group

3.10.16.1 Lock Display (LockStatus)

The "Lock Display" attribute defines for the marked group display whether a locked measuring
point should be displayed. The lock applies to all the buttons of the group display.
The attributes "Lock Display Text", "Lock Text Color" and "Lock Background Color" are only
evaluated if the attribute "Lock Display" has the value "Yes".
Yes
No

A locked measuring point is displayed as locked.

A locked measuring point is not displayed as locked. The queued message classes
are displayed normally.

The "Lock Display" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LockStatus".

3.10.16.2 Lock Display Text (LockText)

The "Lock Display Text" attribute specifies the text that is displayed as button label for a locked
measuring point. The value applies to all the buttons of the selected group display.
The "Lock Display Text" attribute is only evaluated if the "Lock Display" attribute has the value
"Yes".
The "Lock Display Text" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LockText".

3.10.16.3 Lock Background Color (LockBackColor)

The "Lock Background Color" attribute specifies the background color that the buttons assume
for a locked measuring point. The value applies to all the buttons of the selected group display.
The "Lock Background Color" attribute is only evaluated if the "Lock Display" attribute has the
value "Yes".
The "Lock Background Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LockBackColor".

3.10.16.4 Lock Text Color (LockTextColor)

The "Lock Text Color" attribute specifies the color that the button labels assume for a locked
measuring point. The value applies to all the buttons of the selected group display.
The "Lock Text Color" attribute is only evaluated if the "Lock Display" attribute has the value
"Yes".
The "Lock Text Color" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LockTextColor".

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3.10.17

"Styles" Property Group

3.10.17.1 3D Border Width (BackBorderWidth)

The "3D Border Width" attribute defines the line width of a 3D border. The values are specified
in pixels.
=0
>0

The object has no 3D border.

There is a free choice of value depending on the object size.

The "3D Border Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackBorderWidth".

3.10.17.2 Bar Pattern (FillStyle2)

The "Bar Pattern" attribute specifies the fill pattern for display of the bar area.
So that the fill pattern becomes visible, the color of the fill pattern must differ from that of the
background. The "Solid" fill pattern fills the object with the set background color; the
"Transparent" fill pattern defines that neither a background nor a fill pattern are displayed.
There is a choice of 45 fill patterns.
The "Bar Pattern" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillStyle2".

3.10.17.3 Border Weight (BackBorderWidth)

The "Border Weight" attribute defines the width of the border of a slider. The values are
specified in pixels.
=0
>0

The object has no border.

There is a free choice of value depending on the object size.

The "Border Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BackBorderWidth".

3.10.17.4 Display as DropDownList

The "Display as DropDownList" attribute displays all entries of the text box in a drop-down box.
The "Display as DropDownList" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.17.5 Latch Down (Toggle)

The "Latch Down" attribute specifies whether or not a round button latches down. The setting
of the "Latch Down" attribute is only visible in runtime.
The initial position of the round button can be set using the "Pressed" attribute.

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Yes
No

The round button latches down in the new switch setting when pressed. In order
to release it, it must be pressed again.
On pressing, the round button jumps back to the initial position.

The "Latch Down" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Toggle".

3.10.17.6 Box Alignment (BoxAlignment)

The "Box Alignment" attribute defines the arrangement of the buttons in a check box or option
group. The buttons can be arranged to the right or left of the descriptive text.
The descriptive text of the buttons can be aligned using the "Text Orientation", "X Alignment"
and "Y Alignment" attributes in the "Font" property group.
Aligned Left
Aligned Right

The buttons appear in the field aligned left.

The buttons appear in the field aligned right.

The "Box Alignment" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BoxAlignment".

3.10.17.7 Fill Pattern (FillStyle)

The "Fill Pattern" attribute specifies the pattern for display of the picture background. So that
the fill pattern becomes visible, the color of the fill pattern must differ from that of the
background.
There is a choice of 49 fill patterns. The "Solid" fill pattern 1 fills the object with the set
background color; the "Transparent" fill pattern 2 defines that neither a background nor a fill
pattern are displayed.
The "Fill Pattern" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillStyle".

3.10.17.8 Fill Pattern (FillStyle)

The "Fill Pattern" attribute specifies the pattern for display of the background areas. So that
the fill pattern becomes visible, the color of the fill pattern must differ from that of the
background.
There is a choice of 49 fill patterns. The "Solid" fill pattern 1 fills the object with the set
background color; the "Transparent" fill pattern 2 defines that neither a background nor a fill
pattern are displayed.
The "Fill Pattern" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillStyle".

3.10.17.9 Pressed (Pressed)

The "Pressed" attribute specifies whether a round button is displayed in the initial position as
"pressed" or "not pressed".
The "Latch Down" attribute specifies whether or not a round button latches down when pressed.

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Yes
No

The round button has the initial position "pressed".

The round button has the initial position "not pressed".

The "Pressed" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Pressed".

3.10.17.1 Background (Background)

0
The "Background" attribute specifies whether a 3D bar is displayed with or without a
background.
Yes
No

The background of the 3D bar is visible.

The background of the 3D bar is not visible.

The "Background" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Background".

3.10.17.1 Light Effect (LightEffect)

1
The "Light Effect" attribute specifies whether or not the 3D bar is displayed as illuminated.
Yes
No

The 3D bar is displayed spatially by means of a bright/dark contrast.

The 3D bar is displayed as normal.

The "Light Effect" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "LightEffect".

3.10.17.1 Line Style (BorderStyle)

2
The "Line Style" attribute specifies the style in which a line appears. For example, a dotted or
dashed representation is possible.
A line with line width of 1 pixel can be displayed in two colors. To do so, you must select a
broken line style and assign another color to the background of the line. If the line color is
identical to the line background color in the "Colors" property group, breaks in the line are
invisible.
There is a choice of 5 line styles.
The "Line Style" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderStyle".

Line termination
The "Line termination" attribute determines the appearance of the line termination. The
definition of the attribute applies to both ends of the line. Select one of the three following
options:

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A round termination sets the center of a circle at the end point of the line. The diameter of
the circle adapts to the line width.
A rectangular termination set the center of a square at the end point of the line. The width
and height of the square adapts to the line width.
A flat termination ends the line at its end points.

Corners
The "Corners" attribute define the appearance of the corner intersections of where lines meet.
The definition applies to all the corners of the object. Select one of the three following options:
A round corner sets the center of a circle at the intersection of two line ends. The diameter
of the circle adapts to the line width.
The two outer corner points of the line connection are linked by a straight line. This flattening
effect causes the corners to appear beveled.
A pointed corner corresponds to the real corner intersection of the meeting lines.
The "Line termination" and "Corners" attributes cannot be dynamized.

3.10.17.1 Line End Style (BorderEndStyle)

3
The "Line End Style" attribute specifies in which style the ends of a line appear. The ends of
a line can be designed differently. It is possible, for example, that a line begins with a dot and
ends with an arrow.
There is a choice of 7 line end styles.
The "Line End Style" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderEndStyle".

3.10.17.1 Line Weight (BorderWidth)

4
The "Line Weight" attribute specifies the width of a line. The value is specified in pixels.
In order to display a line in two colors, select the broken line style and assign the "Line color"
and "Line background color" attributes with different colors. In Design WinCC Classic, only
one line can be displayed with a 1 pixel line weight.
0 - 100

There is a free choice of value within the limits. With line weight 0, no line is
visible.

The "Line weight" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderWidth".

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3.10.17.1 Line connection type (LineJoinStyle)

5
The "Line connection type" attribute defines the way that corners are displayed in a tube
polygon.
Angle
Round

The tubes are joined at corner points without rounding

The tubes are rounded at the outside corner points.

The attribute "Line connection type" can be made dynamic with the name "LineJoinStyle".

3.10.17.1 Pattern alignment (Fill Style Alignment)

6
The "Pattern alignment" attribute defines the alignment of the fill pattern for the process picture.
Normal
Stretched
(window)

The fill pattern refers to the process picture. In runtime, no scaling is

performed when opening the picture.
The fill pattern refers to the window in the Graphics Designer. In runtime,
scaling is performed when opening the picture.

The "Pattern alignment" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FillStyleAlignment".

3.10.17.1 Draw Border Inside (DrawInsideFrame)

7
For all line thicknesses greater than 1, the "Draw Border Inside" attribute defines whether the
border lines are to be drawn inside the object frame or symmetrically on the frame.
The following objects have the "Draw Border Inside" attribute:
Ellipse, circle, ellipse segment, circlular segment, ellipse arc, circle arc, rectangle, round
rectangle, static text, graphic object, status display, button, checkbox, radio box, slider object.
Yes
No

The border lines are drawn inside the object frame.

The border lines are drawn symmetrically on the object frame.

The "Draw Border Insider" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.17.1 Border Style (BorderStyle)

8
The "Border Style" attribute specifies the style in which a border appears. For example, a dotted
or dashed representation is possible.
A border with border width 1 pixel can be displayed in two colors. To do so, you must select
a broken border style and assign another color to the background of the border. If the border
color is identical to the border background color in the "Colors" property group, breaks in the
border are invisible.

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There is a choice of 5 border styles.
The "Border Style" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderStyle".

3.10.17.1 Border Width (BorderWidth)

9
The "Border Width" attribute specifies the width of a border. The values are specified in pixels.
A border with border width 1 pixel can be displayed in two colors. To do so, you must select
a broken border style and assign another color to the background of the border. If the border
color is identical to the border background color in the "Colors" property group, breaks in the
border are invisible.
0 - 100

There is a free choice of value within the limits.

With border width 0, no border is visible.

The "Border Width" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BorderWidth".

3.10.17.2 Dividing Line Style (ItemBorderStyle)

0
The "Dividing Line Style" attribute specifies in which style the separation lines in a selection
list appear. For example, a dotted or dashed representation is possible. The setting of the
"Dividing Line Style" attribute is only visible in runtime.
If a broken dividing line style (e.g. dashed, dotted) is chosen, only the dividing line weights 0
pixel and 1 pixel can be displayed.
There is a choice of 5 dividing line styles.
The "Dividing Line Style" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ItemBorderStyle".

3.10.17.2 Dividing Line Weight (ItemBorderWidth)

1
The "Dividing Line Weight" attribute specifies the width of a dividing line. The values are
specified in pixels. The setting of the "Dividing Line Weight" attribute is only visible in Runtime.
If a broken dividing line style (e.g. dashed, dotted) is chosen, only the dividing line weights 0
pixel and 1 pixel can be displayed.
0 - 10

There is a free choice of value within the limits. With dividing line weight 0,
no dividing line is visible.

The "Dividing Line Weight" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "ItemBorderWidth".

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3.10.17.2 Windows Style (WindowsStyle)

2
The "Windows Style" attribute specifies for the "Button" or "Slider" objects whether the style
for the display of the objects in the Graphics Designer is set or taken from the default settings
of the Windows operating system.
A change to the "Border Width" or "Background Color" attributes sets the value of the "Windows
Style" attribute to "No" if the new values do not match the default settings
Yes
No

The objects are displayed according to the default settings of the Windows
operating system. Attributes that do not match the Windows style are ignored.
The objects are displayed according to the settings of the Graphics Designer.

The "Windows Style" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "WindowsStyle".

3.10.18

"Connected Objects" Property Group

3.10.18.1 Index of the Connection Point of the First Object Connected

(TopConnectedConnectionPointIndex)
The "Index of the Connection Point of the First Object Connected" attribute specifies for the
start of the connector at which connection point of the object the connection is formed.
The "Index of the Connection Point of the First Object Connected" attribute can be made
dynamic with the name "TopConnectedConnectionPointIndex".

3.10.18.2 Index of the Connection Point of the Object Connected at the End
(BottomConnectedConnectionPointIndex)
The "Index of the Connection Point of the Object Connected at the End" attribute specifies for
the end of the connector at which connection point of the object the connection is formed.
The "Index of the Connection Point of the Object Connected at the End" attribute can be made
dynamic with the name "BottomConnectedConnectionPointIndex".

3.10.18.3 Object Name of the First Object Connected (TopConnectedObjectName)

The "Object Name of the First Object Connected" attribute specifies the object that is
connected to the start of the connector.
The "Object Name of the First Object Connected" attribute can be made dynamic with the
name "TopConnectedObjectName".

3.10.18.4 Object Name of the Object Connected at the End (BottomConnectedObjectName)

The "Object Name of the Object Connected at the End" attribute specifies the object that is
connected to the end of the connector.

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The "Object Name of the Object Connected at the End" attribute can be made dynamic with
the name "BottomConnectedObjectName".

3.10.18.5 Change Orientation (Orientation)

The "Change Orientation" attribute reverses the definition of "Start" and "End" of the connector,
including the current assignments
The "Change Orientation" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Orientation".

3.10.18.6 Connection Type (ConnectorType)

The "Connection Type" attribute defines the type of connector. It is possible to select between
two connection types.
Automatic
Simple

Both objects are connected by a polyline made up of

horizontal and vertical parts.
Both objects are connected by a straight line between the
connecting points.

The "Connection Type" can be dynamized with the name "ConnectorType".

"Assignment" Property Group

3.10.19

"Assignment" Property Group

3.10.19.1 Message Types for Button 1 (Button1Messagetype)

Define one or more message events for displaying the first button in the group display. This is
done by entering the numbers of the bits in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"Button1Messagetype".

3.10.19.2 Message Types for Button 2 (Button2Messagetype)

For displaying both buttons, define one or more message events in the group display. This is
done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.

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One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 2" can be made dynamic with the name
"Button2Messagetype".

3.10.19.3 Message Types for Button 3 (Button3Messagetype)

For displaying the third button, define one or more message events in the group display. This
is done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"Button3Messagetype".

3.10.19.4 Message Types for Button 4 (Button4Messagetype)

For displaying the fourth button, define one or more message events in the group display. This
is done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 4" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"Button4Messagetype".

3.10.19.5 Message Types for Button 5 (Button5MessageType)

For displaying the fifth button, define one or more message events in the group display. This
is done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 5" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"Button5Messagetype".

3.10.19.6 Message Types for Button 6 (Button6Messagetype)

For displaying the sixth button, define one or more message events in the group display. This
is done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.

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If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 6" can be made dynamic with the name
"Button6Messagetype".

3.10.19.7 Message Types for Button 7 (Button7Messagetype)

For displaying the seventh button, define one or more message events in the group display.
This is done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message
events is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 7" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"Button7Messagetype".

3.10.19.8 Message Types for Button 8 (Button8Messagetype)

For displaying the eighth button, define one or more message events in the group display. This
is done by entering the number of the bit in the collect value. The display of the message events
is configured in the "Message Types" property group.
If you want to assign several message events, separate the numbers with a comma. The
sequence of the assignment defines the priority. If there are more than one selected event for
one button, the event that has been entered first is displayed.
One event can be displayed simultaneously in more than one button.
The "Message Types for Button 8" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"Button8Messagetype".

3.10.20

"Status" Property Group

3.10.20.1 Current Status (Index)

The "Current Status" attribute shows the identification number of the currently selected status.
Changing the value specified here selects the individual statuses of a status display to specify
the settings of the other attributes in the "Status" property group.
4,294,967,296 different states can be shown for a status display. The permitted value range
is from 0 to 4.294.967.295 (= 232 - 1).
The "Current Status" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Index".

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3.10.20.2 Bit Selection 0 (BitSelect0)

"Bit Selection 0" indicates the status tag that you have defined for the first bit of the status
value. The tags are defined in the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
0
1
2
3
4

The first bit of the status value is not evaluated. No status tag is used.
Status tag "Status1" is used for the status value of the first bit.
Status tag "Status2" is used for the status value of the first bit.
Status tag "Status3" is used for the status value of the first bit.
Status tag "Status4" is used for the status value of the first bit.

The "Bit Selection 0" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitSelect0".

3.10.20.3 Bit Selection 1 (BitSelect1)

"Bit Selection 1" indicates the status tag that you have defined for the second bit of the status
value. The tags are defined in the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
0
1
2
3
4

The second bit of the status value is not evaluated. No status tag is used.
Status tag "Status1" is used for the status value of the second bit.
Status tag "Status2" is used for the status value of the second bit.
Status tag "Status3" is used for the status value of the second bit.
Status tag "Status4" is used for the status value of the second bit.

The "Bit Selection 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitSelect1".

3.10.20.4 Bit Selection 2 (BitSelect2)

"Bit Selection 2" indicates the status tag that you have defined for the third bit of the status
value. The tags are defined in the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
0
1
2
3
4

The third bit of the status value is not evaluated. No status tag is used.
Status tag "Status1" is used for the status value of the third bit.
Status tag "Status2" is used for the status value of the third bit.
Status tag "Status3" is used for the status value of the third bit.
Status tag "Status4" is used for the status value of the third bit.

The "Bit Selection 2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitSelect2".

3.10.20.5 Bit Selection 3 (BitSelect3)

"Bit Selection 3" indicates the status tag that you have defined for the fourth bit of the status
value. The tags are defined in the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
0
1

806

The fourth bit of the status value is not evaluated. No status tag is used.
Status tag "Status1" is used for the status value of the fourth bit.

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2
3
4

Status tag "Status2" is used for the status value of the fourth bit.
Status tag "Status3" is used for the status value of the fourth bit.
Status tag "Status4" is used for the status value of the fourth bit.

The "Bit Selection 3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitSelect3".

3.10.20.6 Flash Picture

The "Flash Picture" attribute specifies which flash picture is to be displayed for the currently
selected status. Pictures with the following formats can be inserted: EMF, WMF, DIB, BMP.
If no flash picture has been defined for the selected status, the symbol for the status display
is shown as a placeholder during flashing. The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
The "Flashing Flash Picture Active" attribute must have the value "Yes".
The flash picture should have the same picture size as the basic picture, otherwise, its display
is distorted.
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in
the "Picture Selection" dialog.
The "Flash Picture" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.20.7 Flash Picture (FlashPicture)

The "Flash Picture" attribute specifies which flash picture is to be displayed for the currently
selected status. Pictures with the following formats can be inserted: EMF, WMF, BMP, GIF,
JPG.
The flashing is only visible in Runtime.
The flash picture should have the same picture size as the basic picture, otherwise, its display
is distorted.
The "Flash Picture" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "FlashPicture".

3.10.20.8 Flash Picture Referenced (FlashPicReferenced)

The "Status Display" object can have an almost infinite number of different statuses.
For each status, you can choose a basic picture and a flash picture. The "Flash Picture
Referenced" attribute specifies whether the flash picture for the selected status itself or only
the reference in the form of a cross-reference to the picture is integrated.
Yes
No

Only the reference of the picture is integrated and saved.

The picture itself is integrated and saved.

The "Flash Picture Referenced" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.20.9 Flash Picture Transparent Color (FlashPicTransColor)

The "Flash Picture Transparent Color" attribute specifies the transparent color of the flashing
picture. Transparent colors can only be displayed for pictures in BMP or DIB format.

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The "Flash Picture Transparent Color" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "FlashPicTransColor".

3.10.20.1 Flash Picture Transparent Color On (FlashPicUseTransColor)

0
The "Flash Picture Transparent Color On" attribute specifies whether the "Transparent Color"
function is to be used for the picture to be displayed. Transparent colors can only be displayed
for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
Yes
No

The "Flash Picture Transparent Color On" attribute is enabled.

The "Flash Picture Transparent Color On" attribute is disabled.

The "Flash Picture Transparent Color On" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by
means of the name "FlashPicUseTransColor".

3.10.20.1 Flashing Flash Picture Active (FlashFlashPicture)

1
The "Flashing Flash Picture Active" attribute specifies whether in runtime only the basic picture
is displayed or the basic picture and the flash picture alternate in the display.
If no flash picture has been defined, a symbol is displayed as placeholder in runtime.
Yes

In Runtime, the basic picture and flash picture alternate in the display.

No

Only the basic picture is displayed in Runtime.

The "Flashing Flash Picture Active" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashFlashPicture".

3.10.20.1 Flash Picture Flash Frequency(FlashRateFlashPic)

2
The "Flash Picture Flash Frequency" attribute specifies how quickly the basic picture and flash
picture alternate in Runtime. The frequencies "slow", "medium" and "fast" can be set. The flash
frequency depends on the system performance.
The "Flashing Flash Picture Active" attribute must have the value "Yes".
Slow
Medium
Fast

In Runtime, the basic picture and flash picture alternate slowly.

In Runtime, the basic picture and flash picture alternate at medium speed.
In Runtime, the basic picture and flash picture alternate quickly.

The "Flash Picture Flash Frequency" attribute can be made dynamic with the name
"FlashRateFlashPic".

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3.10.20.1 Basic Picture (BasePicture)

3
The "Basic Picture" attribute specifies which picture is to be displayed for the currently selected
status. Pictures with the following formats can be inserted: EMF, WMF, DIB, BMP.
If no picture that you want to display is defined for a status, the symbol for the status display
is shown as a placeholder.
In order to cancel an existing assignment, the "Cancel Selection" button must be clicked in the
"Picture Selection" dialog.
The "Basic Picture" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.20.1 Basic Picture (BasePicture)

4
The "Basic Picture" attribute shows which picture is to be displayed for the currently selected
status. Pictures with the following formats can be inserted: EMF, WMF, BMP, GIF,
JPG.
If no picture that you want to display is defined for a status, the symbol for the status display
is shown as a placeholder.
The "Basic Picture" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BasePicture".

3.10.20.1 Basic Picture Referenced (BasePicReferenced)

5
The "Status Display" object can have an almost infinite number of different statuses.
For each status, you can choose a basic picture and a flash picture. The "Basic Picture
Referenced" attribute specifies whether the basic picture for the selected status itself or only
the reference in the form of a cross-reference to the picture is integrated.
Yes
No

Only the reference of the picture is integrated and saved.

The picture itself is integrated and saved.

The "Basic Picture Referenced" attribute cannot be made dynamic.

3.10.20.1 Basic Picture Transparent Color (BasePicTransColor)

6
The "Basic Picture Transparent Color" attribute specifies the transparent color of a picture.
Transparent colors can only be displayed for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
The "Basic Picture Transparent Color" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by means
of the name "BasePicTransColor".

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3.10.20.1 Basic Picture Transparent Color On (BasePicUseTransColor)

7
The "Basic Picture Transparent Color On" attribute specifies whether the "Transparent Color"
function is to be used for the picture to be displayed. Transparent colors can only be displayed
for pictures in BMP or DIB format.
Yes
No

The "Basic Picture Transparent Color On" attribute is enabled.

The "Basic Picture Transparent Color On" attribute is disabled.

The "Basic Picture Transparent Color On" attribute can be assigned dynamic properties by
means of the name "BasePicUseTransColor".

3.10.20.1 Highest Index (MaxIndex)

8
The "Highest Index" attribute shows the highest index of all configurable alarm and status
combinations.
The "Highest Index" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "MaxIndex".

3.10.20.1 Index (Index)

9
The "Index" attribute shows the index of the currently selected state. By changing the value
specified here, you can define the object properties for this index in the property group "Status".
The "Index" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "Index".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 16 (PrioBit16)

0
The "Priority Bit 16" indicates the priority of bit 16 (measuring point locked) in the collect value
for the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts
at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 16" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit16".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 17 (PrioBit17)

1
The "Priority Bit 17" indicates the priority of bit 17 (OS status) in the collect value for the alarm
evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at the
highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned priority
0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 17" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit17".

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3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 18 (PrioBit18)

2
The "Priority Bit 18" indicates the priority of bit 18 (AS status) in the collect value for the alarm
evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at the
highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned priority
0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 18" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit18".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 19 (PrioBit19)

3
The "Priority Bit 19" indicates the priority of bit 19 (operator input message) in the collect value
for the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts
at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 19" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit19".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 20 (PrioBit20)

4
The "Priority Bit 20" indicates the priority of bit 20 (operator instruction) in the collect value for
the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts
at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 20" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit20".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 21 (PrioBit21)

5
The "Priority Bit 21" indicates the priority of bit 21 (system message) in the collect value for
the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts
at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 21" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit21".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 22 (PrioBit22)

6
The "Priority Bit 22" indicates the priority of bit 22 (process message) in the collect value for
the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts

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at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 22" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit22".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 23 (PrioBit23)

7
The "Priority Bit 23" indicates the priority of bit 23 (maintenance instruction) in the collect value
for the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts
at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 23" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit23".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 24 (PrioBit24)

8
The "Priority Bit 24" indicates the priority of bit 24 (AS control technology error) in the collect
value for the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation
starts at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are
assigned priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 24" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit24".

3.10.20.2 Priority Bit 25 (PrioBit25)

9
The "Priority Bit 25" indicates the priority of bit 25 (AS control technology fault) in the collect
value for the alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation
starts at the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are
assigned priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 25" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit25".

3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 26 (PrioBit26)

0
The "Priority Bit 26" indicates the priority of bit 26 (tolerance low) in the collect value for the
alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at
the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 26" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit26".

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3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 27 (PrioBit27)

1
The "Priority Bit 27" indicates the priority of bit 27 (tolerance high) in the collect value for the
alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at
the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 27" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit27".

3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 28 (PrioBit28)

2
The "Priority Bit 28" indicates the priority of bit 28 (warning low) in the collect value for the
alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at
the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 28" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit28".

3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 29 (PrioBit29)

3
The "Priority Bit 29" indicates the priority of bit 29 (warning high) in the collect value for the
alarm evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at
the highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned
priority 0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 29" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit29".

3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 30 (PrioBit30)

4
The "Priority Bit 30" indicates the priority of bit 30 (alarm low) in the collect value for the alarm
evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at the
highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned priority
0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 30" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit30".

3.10.20.3 Priority Bit 31 (PrioBit31)

5
The "Priority Bit 31" indicates the priority of bit 31 (alarm high) in the collect value for the alarm
evaluation for the extended analog and status display. The alarm evaluation starts at the

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highest priority (priority 1). Bits that are not used for the alarm evaluation are assigned priority
0.
If several bits are queued in the collect value, the status is determined by the priority.
The "Priority Bit 31" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "PrioBit31".

3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 0 (BitPosition0)

6
The "Status Word Bit 0" indicates the bit position of the selected tag for bit 0 of the status value.
The content is only evaluated, if a tag is selected for bit selection 0. The tags are defined in
the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
Enter a value from 0 to 31. Each value can only be assigned once.
The "Status Word Bit 0" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitPosition0".

3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 1 (BitPosition1)

7
The "Status Word Bit 1" indicates the bit position of the selected tag for bit 1 of the status value.
The content is only evaluated, if a tag is selected for bit selection 1. The tags are defined in
the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
Enter a value from 0 to 31. Each value can only be assigned once.
The "Status Word Bit 1" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitPosition1".

3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 2 (BitPosition2)

8
The "Status Word Bit 2" indicates the bit position of the selected tag for bit 2 of the status value.
The content is only evaluated, if a tag is selected for bit selection 2. The tags are defined in
the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
Enter a value from 0 to 31. Each value can only be assigned once.
The "Status Word Bit 2" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitPosition2".

3.10.20.3 Status Word Bit 3 (BitPosition3)

9
The "Status Word Bit 3" indicates the bit position of the selected tag for bit 3 of the status value.
The content is only evaluated, if a tag is selected for bit selection 3. The tags are defined in
the "Miscellaneous" property group under "Status1" to "Status4".
Enter a value from 0 to 31. Each value can only be assigned once.
The "Status Word Bit 3" attribute can be made dynamic with the name "BitPosition3".

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4

Resources

4.1

Process Picture Dynamics

Contents
This chapter shows you how to dynamize process pictures using WinCC. It contains
information on
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard
Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection
Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Dialog
Dynamizing Using VBS Action
Dynamizing Using C Action

4.2

Types of Dynamization

Introduction
WinCC offers various ways of dynamizing the objects of a process picture.
Basically, there are two types of dynamization.

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4.2 Types of Dynamization
Dynamic objects change their appearance and position depending on, for example, a
process value. An example of a dynamic object is a bar whose length is influenced by a
current temperature, a pointer instrument with a moving pointer, or an object which changes
color depending on the position of a workpiece.
Operator-controllable objects react to events, e.g. a mouse-click, and enable the operator
to actively intervene in the process. Operator-controllable objects can be, for example,
buttons, sliders, or I/O fields used for entering certain process parameters.
Note
If you copy a dynamized object in the Graphics Designer, the dynamics are also copied.
The copied object will then be affected by the dynamics in just the same way as the original
object.
Graphics Designer will permit identical object names in a picture which differ only in lower
and upper case letters. For dynamization of objects in a picture, however, you must assign
a unique nomenclature. Differentiation of object names by upper and lower cases alone
shall not be sufficient.

Dynamizing by Means of Direct Tag Connection

When a tag is connected to a property of an object, the value of the tag is transferred directly
to the object property. This means, for example, that the value of a tag can be directly
influenced by an I/O field.
Dynamization by means of tag connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog with the
icon and the name of the tag.

Dynamizing by Means of Indirect Tag Connection

When a tag is connected to a property of an object, the value of the tag is interpreted as the
tag name. The value of this tag is transferred to the object property. You configure an indirect
tag connection by double-clicking the box in the "Indirect" column of the "Object Properties"
dialog.
Dynamization by means of tag connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog with the
icon and the name of the tag. The indirect tag connection is indicated with the icon
in
the "Indirect" column of the "Object Properties" dialog.

Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection

Direct connection is used for reacting to events. If the event occurs in Runtime, the value of a
source element is used for a target element. The values of the source element and target
element can be defined by:
a constant
a WinCC tag
the value of an object property
Dynamizing by means of direct connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog with the
icon.

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4.3 Using tag prefixes and server prefixes

Dynamizing Using Dynamic Dialog

The Dynamic dialog is used for dynamizing an object property. You should use the Dynamic
dialog if you want to map the value of a tag to a value which can be interpreted by the operator.
For example, you can use the Dynamic dialog to map the value range of a tag to color values.
Dynamizing using the Dynamic dialog is indicated in the Object properties dialog with the
icon.

Dynamizing Using VBS Action

VBS actions are used to dynamize an object property or to react to events. You should use
VBS actions if, for example, you want to process several input parameters in one action or you
want to execute conditional instructions (if ... then ...).
Dynamization with a VBS action is indicated with the

icon in the "Object Properties" dialog.

Dynamizing Using C Action

C actions are used to dynamize an object property or to react to events. You should use C
actions if, for example, you want to process several input parameters in one action or you want
to execute conditional instructions (if ... then ...).
Dynamization with a C action is indicated with the

4.3

icon in the "Object Properties" dialog.

Using tag prefixes and server prefixes

Introduction
WinCC offers a wide variety of possibilities to define and structure tags. For a picture window,
a tag prefix can be assigned to precede all tags that are used in the picture.
Pictures that are embedded can be stored on any server in a multi-user system. Either the
server is specified directly on embedding a picture with the server prefix, or assigned later via
the object properties of the picture window. Tags can also be requested from other servers
with the server prefix.

TagPrefix Property
Use "TagPrefix" to define or return the tag prefix that is added to all tags, which are contained
in the picture window object, or that returns a tag prefix. In this way, a picture that is embedded
in a picture window retains access to its own tags while another picture accesses other tags.
Example: In a picture window the "temperature" tag is requested on an object. If the "Motor1."
tag prefix is assigned to the picture window, the tag "Motor1.Temperature" is requested.
Note
The TagPrefix property is only provided for "WinCC Gauge Control" and "WinCC Slider
Control" where controls are concerned.

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ServerPrefix Property
Use "ServerPrefix" to determine in a multi-user system:
the server where the picture to be displayed in the picture window is located.
the server, from which the tags are read.

Requesting tags without prefix

The example below shows a reason for requesting tags without prefix.
You want to read the local user using the "@CurrentUser" tag. In a multi-user system, or if the
faceplate technology is used, the tag names are always preceded by a server prefix or a tag
prefix. You can use the following tag add-ons to switch off the prefix in order to read the
"@CurrentUser" tag.
"@NOTP" switches off the tag prefix.
"@NOSP" switches off the server prefix.
"@NOP" switches off the tag prefix and the server prefix.
The add-ons cannot be used in the "TagPrefix" or "ServerPrefix" properties of a picture window
or basic picture.
The add-ons are available in all dynamization types. It only makes sense to switch off the
server prefix in the case of clients with their own project.
If a standard server is set up on a multi-user system, you cannot use the "@NOP" and
"@NOSP" add-ons.
Tag prefixes will only function for tags.

Example
The following VBScript reads the "@CurrentUser" tag without tag prefix and outputs the content
as a trace in a diagnostics window.

'VBS200
Dim tag
tag = HMIRuntime.Tags("@NOTP::@CurrentUser").Read
HMIRuntime.Trace "CurrentUser: " & tag & vbNewLine

Note
The setting of the prefix only becomes effective when newly supplying the picture name. This
means you must either set the prefix before picture selection or newly supply the picture name
if the picture is not changed.

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4.4 Trigger Types

4.4

Trigger Types

4.4.1

Trigger Types

Introduction
Triggers are used to execute actions at runtime. To do this, a trigger is linked to an action,
forming the triggering event for calling the action. Actions without triggers will not be carried
out.
The following triggers are available for the dynamization of objects:
Cyclic Triggers
Cyclic Triggers Based on Window Cycle
Cyclic Triggers Based on Picture Cycle
Tag Triggers
Event-Driven Triggers
Note
It is important to remember that the cycle time has a major effect on the performance of the
project. All the actions of a picture must be completed within their cycle time. Apart from the
runtimes of the actions, the times required for requesting the tag values and the reaction
times of the automation systems must also be taken into consideration. You should only set
trigger events with a cycle time under one second if variables which change rapidly have to
be queried.

4.4.2

Cyclic Triggers

Introduction
Cyclic triggers are a means of processing periodic actions in WinCC. In the case of a cyclic
trigger, the action is executed when the trigger event occurs, e.g. every 20 seconds.

Principle of Operation
When actions with a cyclical trigger are configured in a picture, each tag is requested
individually following selection of the picture.
The start of the first time interval coincides with the start of Runtime. The length of the interval
is determined by the cycle. Cycles between 250 ms and 1 h can be selected. Self-defined user
cycles are also available.

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4.4 Trigger Types

The action is always executed when the triggering event occurs.

Note
Depending on the system, it cannot be guaranteed that an action with a cyclic trigger is carried
out at exactly the specified time.

Cyclic Triggers Based on Window Cycle

A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object property Update
Cycle of the Picture Window object. This cycle provides the option of defining the cycles of all
the actions used in a picture window centrally.

Cyclic Triggers Based on Picture Cycle

A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object property Update
Cycle of the picture object. This cycle provides the option of defining the cycles of all the actions
used in a picture centrally.

Recommendation
In order that the WinCC project has a high level of performance, it is advantageous to dispense
with actions which have a cyclical trigger and to realize periodic actions in the automation
system.

4.4.3

Tag Triggers

Introduction
Tag triggers consist of one or more specified tags. The action which is connected to such a
trigger is executed if a change in the value of one of these tags was detected when the query
was launched.

Principle of Operation
When actions with tag triggers are configured in a picture, all the tag triggers related to an
action are requested block by block when the picture is selected.

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4.4 Trigger Types
The beginning of the first interval coincides with the point at which the picture is first selected.
The length of the interval is determined by the cycle. Query cycles between 250 ms and 1 h
can be selected. Self-defined user cycles are also available.

The action is only executed when the value of the tag triggers has changed.
Note
If a tag briefly changes within a query cycle and then resumes its original value, the action is
not executed.
Note
Reaction in case of non-existing variables
A C/VBS action is not executed after screen selection if a non-existing tag is requested. The
object is shown regardless. However, a dynamic dialog is executed once after screen
selection. The object is not shown.

Upon change
You can also configure a tag trigger so that the action is executed whenever the tag value is
changed.
The "On change" mode setting for process tags corresponds to a cyclic read request with a
cycle time of 1 second.
Note
If the WinCC diagnostics tags are used as action triggers, this form of the tag trigger should
not be used. Diagnostics tags can change very quickly. Since every change could trigger the
action, it can lead to high system utilization.

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

Recommendation
Tag triggers should be used in order that the WinCC project has a high performance level:
With cyclic actions, the action is always executed, e.g. every 2 seconds. The tag trigger
only executes the action if a change in the value of the tag has been detected. This reduces
the load on the system and increases performance.
When a picture is selected, all of the tags contained in tag triggers are known and can be
requested all at the same time by the automation system. The best possible optimization
can thus be achieved from the channel.

4.4.4

Event-Driven Triggers

Introduction
Actions which are connected to an event are executed whenever this event occurs. Events
can be, for example, mouse control, keyboard control, or changes in focus.
If the Mouse Control event is connected to an action, this action is also triggered by a configured
hotkey.

Mode of Operation
The action is only executed when the object's triggering event is triggered. If the event occurs,
all the tags contained in the action are registered. Process tags are subsequently updated at
a cycle time of 1 s.

Recommendation
Event-driven triggers are not suitable for bulk configuration in the case of dynamizing with Cactions because each action must be logged on and off individually by the action control.

4.5

Dynamic Wizard

4.5.1

Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard

Introduction
With the Dynamic Wizard, you can dynamize an object using C actions. When you execute a
wizard, preconfigured C actions and trigger events are defined and transferred to the object
properties. If necessary, you can change the C actions in the object properties using the Events
tab.

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Dynamic Wizard

The preconfigured C actions are divided into the following groups:

System functions
Standard dynamics
Picture components
Import functions
Picture functions
SFC
The available groups and the wizards contained in the groups depend on the WinCC
installation type, the project type, and the selected object.
Note
You can use the Toolbars... item in the View menu of the Graphics Designer to show or hide
the Dynamic Wizard.

See also
SFC (Page836)
System Functions (Page835)
Standard Dynamics (Page829)
Import Functions (Page828)
Picture Components (Page827)
Picture Functions (Page824)

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

4.5.2

Picture Functions

Updating Picture Objects

This wizard updates all user objects with type identification contained in the current WinCC
picture or in the project.
The wizard is part of the Graphic Object Update functionality.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

Changing User Object Connection

This wizard is used to change the individual connections of user objects at a later stage, e.g.
connection to a different AS block instance.
The wizard is part of the Graphic Object Update functionality.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

Picture Selection in Process Window

With this wizard you can create an action used to change a picture in the process window. The
name of the picture to be displayed is specified in the wizard.
Note
This wizard is only available if the WinCC Basic Process Control and SFC Visualization option
is installed and the project has been processed with the OS Project Editor.

Picture Selection Via Measurement Point

With this wizard you can create an action used to select a picture by means of a measurement
point which you must select. The name of the measurement point and of the picture to be
displayed is specified in the wizard.
Note
This wizard is only available if the WinCC Basic Process Control and SFC Visualization option
is installed and the project has been processed with the OS Project Editor.

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

Picture Selection Via Group Display

With this wizard you can create an action used to select a picture by means of a group display.
If an alarm occurs in Runtime, the location (graphic) of this alarm is displayed.
Note
This wizard is only available if the WinCC Option Basic Process Control is installed, the project
has been processed with the OS Project Editor, and a group display has been selected.

Picture Navigation
This wizard creates an action which performs the selected picture navigation when the trigger
occurs at the selected object.
The following picture navigation functions can be selected:
Display Start Picture
Display Previous Picture
Display Next Picture
Display Stored Picture
Store Picture
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project
Editor.

Picture Change in Working Area

With this wizard you can create an action used to change a picture in the working area. The
name of the picture to be displayed is specified in the wizard.
Note
This wizard is only available if the WinCC Basic Process Control is installed and the project
has been processed with the OS Project Editor.

Picture Change in Window

This wizard is used to change the content of a window object in a Graphics Designer picture.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

Simple Picture Change

With this wizard you can create an action used to change a picture. The name of the picture
to be displayed is specified in the wizard.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Picture Object Export

This wizard exports user objects with type identifier contained in the current picture and in the
project into an Excel table (.csv format). Information such as the object type and connection
information is exported.
The wizard is part of the Graphic Object Update functionality.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

Display Error Box

The wizard creates an action which displays a dialog. The type of dialog, info box, question
box, or emergency box, and the title and text of the dialog must be specified in the wizard.
The action which calls the error box is not resumed until the box has been closed. Other actions
which have been configured under the same trigger type in the same application are not
triggered while the box is open.
If one of the buttons in the dialog is clicked in Runtime, the action is given a return value which
you can evaluate in your script:
Button
OK
Cancel
Yes
No

Return value
1
2
6
7

Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

Picture Object Import

This wizard imports user objects into WinCC pictures. The required information is normally
read from a file that has earlier been generated and modified using the Dynamic Wizard "Export
Picture Objects".
The wizard is part of the Graphic Object Update functionality.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

Display WinCC Dialog

With this wizard you can display any picture of the Graphics Designer in a picture window. The
name of the picture to be displayed and the appearance of the picture window is set in the
wizard.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

See also
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.5.3

Picture Components

Creating faceplate as type - V 1.14

This wizard is used to configure the assignment between the object properties of the picture
and the structural components of a structured data type.
Supply output value of an I/O field every second with .actual value
Provide data to the process connection of a bar graph at intervals of two seconds.
Temperature
Here .actual value and .temperature are components of a structured data type
The original picture has become a type picture.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.
The WebNavigator does not support the basic faceplate technology of the wizard.

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

Creating instances in the plant picture - V 1.14

With this wizard you can create a picture window in a parent picture and then call a type picture
in this picture window. When doing so, you specify which tag of a structured data type the
picture window works with and at which position the picture window is placed. The instance
wizard enables the positioning of picture windows in several ways:
as a fixed component in the picture
as a displayable component which can be called using a button
as several displayable components which can each be called using a button
as a fixed component with a selectable name .he name of the component can be preassigned with a tag.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been edited using the OS - Project Editor.
The WebNavigator does not support the basic faceplate technology of the wizard.

Picture Module Technology

The documentation concerning the Picture module technology explains the WinCC screen-inscreen technology. An example project illustrates how to create and modify a picture module.

See also
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.5.4

Import Functions

Import Messages
With this wizard you can import a COROS LS-B message list into WinCC. You will find further
information in the WinCC Information System under WinCC Documentation, Smart Tools,
Migration of COROS LS-B to WinCC.

Import S5L, Tag Only

With this wizard you can import a COROS LS-B tag list into WinCC. You will find further
information in the WinCC Information System under WinCC Documentation, Smart Tools,
Migration of COROS LS-B to WinCC.

Import S7 S5 ASLI
With this wizard you can read the assignment list of STEP 5 and STEP 7 into WinCC. You will
find further information in the WinCC Information System under WinCC Documentation, Smart
Tools, Importing Assignment List.

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4.5 Dynamic Wizard

See also
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.5.5

Standard Dynamics

Operative with Authorization

With this Wizard you may generate an action to check the authorization level of a user.

Link picture component with measuring point

Using the "Link Picture Component with Measuring Point" wizard you can link an existing
picture component with the measuring points existing in the project.
Perform the following steps to establish such a link:
1. Open a picture with the desired picture component in Graphics Designer.
2. Select this picture component (mark the header, not the object contained within the picture
component).
3. Select the "Standard Dynamics" tab in the "Dynamic Wizard" and start the wizard by double
clicking it.
4. Follow the instructions in the Dynamic Wizard dialogs.
5. Using the tag selection dialog, the wizard will offer you all measuring points corresponding
to the structure tag of the selected picture component. Select the desired measuring point.
6. Start the action by clicking the Finish button.
The wizard will link the objects of the picture component with the structure tags of the selected
measuring point.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS. One component icon must have
been selected.

Bit Set/Reset
Using this wizard you may create an action to set or reset the bit of a tag. The tag to be changed
as well as the bit number will be displayed during the wizard run

Color Dynamics - Create a New Entity

Dynamizations done using the "Color dynamics with table" wizard can also contain references
to structure tags. For example: there can be a reference to a structure tag "Engine1" for a user
object to display an engine. To copy this object, for e.g. for displaying another engine, then
the references to the structure tag "Engine1" are to be modified.

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The wizard does the required changes by switching all references to "Engine1" to the new
structure instance that is to be mentioned. This affects all dynamizations established through
tag links or scripts. Excluded are dynamizations established through Dynamic Dialog.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Color Dynamics With Table

Color attributes of graphics objects may be controlled during Runtime by using a table. Each
table entry may be assigned a color and a logical expression. The logical expression is a link
of bit information of one or several tags from the WinCC Tag Management. The table is
prioritized. The top table entry has the highest priority, the lowest table entry the lowest priority.
If several expressions are valid during Runtime, the one with the highest priority will be used.
After selecting a graphics object in Graphics Designer the wizard is ready to start. Initially the
wizard lists all object properties from which a dynamic color property may be selected.
Afterwards the update timer for the tag trigger is set. All used tags are entered as triggers.
Upon reselection of the wizard, the settings for any color dynamization previously made are
displayed again.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Set/Reset Several Bits

Using this wizard you may create an action to set or reset several bits of a tag. The tag to be
changed as well as the number of the bits will be displayed during the wizard run.

Network Entry Point

Using this wizard you may implement a direct network entry point during Runtime, triggered
by an object event to be configured.
If the event occurs the program editor is started from STEP 7. At the same time a direct entry
is made into the respective network.
In order to use the wizard, the following prerequisites must be met:
the WinCC project with the picture to which entry is supposed to be made and the STEP 7
project must be on the same computer
the WinCC project must be created as a subdirectory of the STEP 7 project (STEP 7-Project
\wincproj\WinCC project)
the S7 tags are mapped onto the WinCC tags
For the current object you specify an event which will trigger the entry. For e.g. "Click with the
left mouse key" on a button. In addition, the selected WinCC tag will be linked with an attribute

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of the current object, for example the background color of the button. This attribute is controlled
by the contents of the WinCC tag upon modification of tag value.
Once the triggering event occurs on the respective object during Runtime, e.g., click with the
left mouse button, the program editor (KOP, FUP, AWL) is started from STEP 7 and direct
entry is made into the network defined by the selected tag.

Move Object
The object properties "Position X" and "Position Y" can be linked with tags in the course of the
wizard so that the position of the object can be dynamized.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Fill Object
With this wizard you may create an action to dynamize the fill level of an object through a tag.
During the wizard run you may also define the tags as well as upper and lower limits for fill
levels 0% and 100%.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Dynamize Prototype
With this wizard you may dynamize the object properties through a structure tag element.

Dynamic Entity of Prototype

You can use this wizard to link an object property or user object edited using "Dynamize
Prototype" in runtime with a tag of a structured data type.
The wizard can only be used if the selected object has the "tagname" property in the correct
upper and lower case.
You can only use the wizard together with the "Link Prototype with Structure or Rename
Existing Ones" wizard.

Link Prototype with Structure or Rename Existing Ones

With this wizard you may link object properties to a structure or may rewire the link with a
structure.
The following options may be selected:

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Change Object Name: The structure name is assumed as the object name.
Check Structures: Checks if the stated structure is known.
Remove Server Prefix: Removes server prefix from tag name.
This wizard makes all necessary changes by modifying all references to the new structure
entity. This affects all dynamizations established through actions, direct links, or dynamic
dialog.
You can only use the wizard together with the "Dynamic Entity of Prototype" wizard.

Link Group Display with Picture

The wizard is only offered for selection if a picture component or group display is marked in
Graphics Designer.
With this wizard you may link the selected group display to a picture which is linked to additional
group displays/picture components. In the selected group display in Runtime, you will see a
display of the message states for the linked picture.
Note
This wizard is only available if the WinCC Basic Process Control is installed, the project has
been processed with the OS Project Editor, and a group display has been selected.

Link Group Display with PCS7 Measuring Point

The wizard is only offered for selection if a picture component or group display is marked in
Graphics Designer.
With this wizard you may link an existing group display to the measuring points available in
the project.
Note
This wizard is only available if the WinCC Basic Process Control is installed, the project has
been processed with the OS Project Editor, and a group display has been selected.

Actual Value Bar

Issues the tag content as actual value on a bar. Cycle time, tag name, minimum and maximum
value, and zero of the bar display may be entered during the wizard run.
Note
This wizard is only available if a bar has been selected.

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See also
Color Dynamics with Table (Page833)
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.5.6

Color Dynamics with Table

Dialog for the Creation of Color Dynamics

This dialog is used to define color changes which are controlled by tag states. The color can
be determined by a single tag or by the logical combination of several tags.
AND and OR conditions are available as logical operations.
A maximum of 10 color definitions are possible. These are then processed in the listed
sequence. Entries which are at the top of the table have a higher priority than entries which
are at the bottom of the table. The last entry in the table is always the Default entry. Its priority
cannot be changed.

Creating Color Change Table

Before new color conditions can be added, a new row must be inserted using the New button.
The empty entry is then automatically highlighted and can be changed in the editing area for
expressions. The editing area is below the table.

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Properties button. All the bit masks in the selected row are displayed in sequence. They
can be changed.
Color button. This button opens the color selection dialog. The color selection dialog can
also be opened by double-clicking the selected row.
New List Entry button. This button inserts a new row in the table.
Delete List button. All entries in the table are deleted, except for the entry other (table
area).
Delete Highlighted Entry button. The highlighted row is deleted.
Up button. The selected row is moved up in the table and is thus given a higher priority.
Down button. The selected row is moved down in the table and is thus given a lower
priority.

Editing Expression
Delete Entire Expression button. Deletes the entire expression.
Delete the Last Part of the Expression button. Deletes the last part of the expression.
Accept Expression in Table button. Transfers the expression into the highlighted table row.
Tag Selection button. Opens the tag selection dialog. All tags of the Bit, Byte, Word, and
DWord type are displayed. When the tags have been selected, the tag bit mask appears in
which the bits to be checked are set.
And button. If permitted syntactically, a logical AND operation is attached to the expression.
Or button. If permitted syntactically, a logical OR operation is attached to the expression.
Open Parenthesis button. If permitted syntactically, an opening parenthesis is attached to
the expression.
Close Parenthesis button. If permitted syntactically, a closing parenthesis is attached to
the expression.
Note
It is not possible to edit the expression manually.

Dialog for Creating Tag Bit Mask

This dialog is used to enter the tag bits to be checked.
Up to four bytes (only one bit in the case of binary tags) of the tag value are displayed. The
states to be checked are entered here. An 'x' means that the bit is ignored.

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If '0' or '1' is entered, the state of the bits concerned is checked accordingly.

See also
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.5.7

System Functions

Start Other Applications

With this wizard you can create an action which starts another application. The path and name
of the application to be started is entered in the wizard.

Hardcopy
With this wizard you can create an action for making a hardcopy of the screen.

Set Up Redundant Connection

With this wizard you can create an action for SIMATIC S7 Protocol Suite which performs a
dynamic connection switch.
Further information can be found in the description of S7 Protocol Suite.
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Language Switch
With this function you can create an action which switches the Runtime language.

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Exit WinCC
With this wizard you can create an action which closes WinCC. The action only acts on the
computer on which the action is executed (this also applies to multi-user systems).
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

Exit WinCC or Windows

With this wizard you can create an action which closes WinCC or the operating system. You
can specify how the operating system is to be closed (Exit, Restart, Relogin). The action only
acts on the computer on which the action is executed (this also applies to multi-user systems).

Exit WinCC Runtime

With this wizard you can create an action which closes Runtime. The action only acts on the
computer on which the action is executed (this also applies to multi-user systems).
Note
This wizard is only available if the project has not been processed with the OS - Project Editor.

See also
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.5.8

SFC

Introduction
The Sequential Function Chart (SFC) is a process control which is used to control the sequence
of processes.
You can use the "SFC Visualization" software package using the WinCC configurations for
SFC visualization and to use and observe the SFC plans and SFC instances in runtime.
The help becomes available when SFC is installed.
Note
You can find information about the Dynamic Wizard and SFC in the SFC documentation by
searching for "Dynamic Wizard".

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Configuring SFC Control

You can use this wizard to link an existing "PCS 7 SFC Control" with a SFC-Plan or SFCInstance existing in the project.

Requirement
A "PCS 7 SFC Control" has been selected

Procedure
1. Open a picture with a "PCS 7 SFC Control" in Graphics Designer and select this control.
2. Select the "SFC" tab in the "Dynamic Wizard" and start the wizard by double clicking
"Configure SFC Control".
3. Follow the instructions in the Dynamic Wizard dialogs.
4. The wizard offers all the available SFCs via the SFC selection dialog. Select an SFC.
5. Select the required representation for this SFC.
6. Start the action by clicking the "Next" button and confirm it by clicking "Finish". The wizard
connects "PCS 7 SFC Control" with the selected SFC.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

Configure SFC Browser

You can use this wizard to dynamize a graphic object, say a button, to open the SFC browser
at runtime using configured operations and to select and display a SFC plan or a SFC instance.
For additional information, see "SFC Visualization" in the PCS 7 description.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

Configure SFC Button

You can use this wizard to dynamize a graphic object, say a button, to select and display a
SFC plan or a SFC instance during runtime using configured operations.
For additional information, see "SFC Visualization" in the PCS 7 description.
Note
The Wizard functionality is only available in a PCS7-OS.

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4.6 Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection

See also
Dynamizing Using Dynamic Wizard (Page822)

4.6

Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection

4.6.1

Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection

Introduction
When a tag is connected to a property of an object, the value of the tag is transferred directly
to the object property. This means, for example, that the value of a tag can be directly
influenced by an I/O field.
You should always use this type of dynamization if you want to transfer the value of a tag
directly to an object property.

See also
Example: Dynamic Filling of Rectangle (Page840)
How to Configure a Tag Connection (Page838)
Types of Dynamization (Page815)

4.6.2

How to Configure a Tag Connection

Requirement
Start Graphics Designer and open a picture.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties dialog of the object to be dynamized.
2. Click the Properties tab.
3. In the left-hand window area, select the property group to which the property you want to
dynamize belongs.
4. In the right-hand window area, select the property which you want to dynamize.

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5. Right-click the
up menu.

icon belonging to this property and select the Tag... command in the pop-

The tag selection dialog is displayed.

6. Select the tag which you want to link to the property.
7. Close the tag selection dialog using the OK button.
Dynamization by means of tag connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog by
the
icon and the name of the tag. The default trigger set in the Graphics Designer is
used as the update cycle.
8. Check the update cycle and, if necessary, make changes using the pop-up menu.

Alternative Operation
You can also configure a tag connection by dragging a tag from the Tags toolbar onto the
icon.
You can also configure a tag connection by double-clicking the
can then be entered directly in the entry field.

icon. The name of the tag

You can also configure a tag connection to the Output Value object property by dragging a tag
from the Tags toolbar onto the object in the Graphics Designer picture.

See also
Example: Dynamic Filling of Rectangle (Page840)
Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection (Page838)

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4.6.3

Example: Dynamic Filling of Rectangle

Introduction
A process tag is to directly influence the fill level of a rectangle. In the example, the process
tag is simulated by an internal tag, the value of which can be changed by means of an I/O field.

Requirement
Configure a "FillLevel" tag of data type "Unsigned 8-Bit Value".
Start Graphics Designer and open a picture.
Insert an I/O field into the picture and connect it to the "FillLevel" tag.
Insert a rectangle into the picture.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" dialog of the rectangle and click the "Properties" tab (if not
already activated).
2. In the left-hand window area, select the "Filling" property group.
3. In the right-hand window area, double-click the "Dynamic Filling" property. "Yes" now
appears in the "Static" column.
button belonging to the Fill Level property and select the Tag... command
4. Right-click the
in the pop-up menu.

The tag selection dialog is displayed.

5. In the tag selection dialog, select the "FillLevel" tag and close the tag selection dialog using
the "OK" button.

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4.7 Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection
6. Dynamization by means of tag connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog with
the
icon and the name of the tag. The default trigger set in the Graphics Designer is
used as the update cycle.
7. Save the picture and activate Runtime using the

button.

8. In Runtime you can change the value of the tag using the I/O field. If, for example, you enter
the value 30 in the I/O field, the bottom third of the rectangle is filled with the background
color of the rectangle. The top two thirds of the rectangle are transparent.

See also
Dynamizing by Means of Tag Connection (Page838)

4.7

Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection

4.7.1

Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection

Introduction
Direct connection can be used as a reaction to events. If the event occurs in Runtime, the
'value' of a source element (Source) is used for a target element (Target).
Constants, tags, or the attributes of the objects in the picture are available as sources.
Tags or the dynamizable attributes of objects and windows or tags can be used as targets.
The advantages of direct connection are the simple configuration and the time response in
Runtime. Direction connection has the best performance of all dynamization types.

Copying Objects
If in the Graphics Designer you copy an object whose properties are dynamized with a direct
connection, the dynamizations are also copied.
If the direct connection in the original object relates to an object property of this object, the
direct connection in the copied object relates to the corresponding property of the copied object.
If the direct connection in the original object relates to an object property of a third object, this
third object is influenced by the direct connection of the copied object in exactly the same way
as the direct connection of the original object.

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See also
Example: Picture Change in Picture Window (Page844)
How to Configure a Direct Connection (Page843)
Application Examples of Direct Connection (Page842)
Types of Dynamization (Page815)

4.7.2

Application Examples of Direct Connection

Constants As Source of Direct Connection

If a constant is selected as the source of the direct connection, a character string can be entered
in the entry field.
The table below explains the effect that the entries have on various target elements.
Source

Objective

Explanation

picture1.pdl

Current window /
picture name

If the event occurs, a picture change is performed. The

picture with the name picture1.pdl is displayed in the window.

picture1

Button1 / text

The picture with the name picture1.pdl is displayed in the

window.

50

Rectangle1 / width

If the event occurs, the object Rectangle1 is displayed with

a width of 50 pixels.

50

Tag, direct with

operator message

If the event occurs, the tag is assigned the value 50. An

operator message is sent at the same time.

Note
button to configure a picture change. This button opens the picture
You can also use the
selection dialog in which all configured pictures are displayed.

Object Properties As Source of Direct Connection

The table below explains the effects of various direct connections when an object property is
used as the source.

842

Source

Objective

Explanation

Circle1 / fill
pattern

Rectangle1 / fill pattern

If the event occurs, the fill pattern of the object Rectangle1

is adapted to the fill pattern of the object Circle1.

Circle / width

Current window / width

If the event occurs, the width of the window is adapted to the

width of the object Circle1.

Bar1 / height

Tag, direct

If the event occurs, the height of the object Bar1 is assigned

to the tag.

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Note
The list of objects contains the entry this object. If you use properties of the currently selected
object as the source or target of the direct connection, this entry is used automatically when
the dialog is closed. The dynamics are also copied when an object is copied. The direct
connection of the object created during copying therefore refers to this object. The newly
created object is therefore used as the source or target of the direct connection.

Tags As Source of Direct Connection

The table below explains the effects of various direct connections when a tag is used as the
source.
Source

Objective

Explanation

Tag1, direct

Tag2, indirect with

operator message

If the event occurs, the tag whose name is stored in Tag2 is

given the value of Tag1. An operator message is also sent.

Tag1, direct

Circle1 / radius

If the event occurs, the radius of the object Circle1 is changed

according to the value of the tag.

See also
Example: Picture Change in Picture Window (Page844)
How to Configure a Direct Connection (Page843)
Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection (Page841)

4.7.3

How to Configure a Direct Connection

Requirement
Start the Graphics Designer and open a picture.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties dialog of the object for which you want to configure an action.
2. Click the Event tab.
3. In the left-hand window area, select the event trigger, e.g. mouse, background color, ...

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4. In the right-hand window area, double-click the event type: e.g. mouse click,
change, ...
The Direct Connection dialog opens.

5. Set the source of the direct connection.

6. Set the target of the direct connection.
7. In the "Direct Connection" dialog, click the "OK" button. Dynamizing by means of direct
connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog with the
icon.

See also
Example: Picture Change in Picture Window (Page844)
Application Examples of Direct Connection (Page842)
Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection (Page841)

4.7.4

Example: Picture Change in Picture Window

Introduction
In a picture window, a picture change is executed by means of a direct connection.

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Requirement
Start the Graphics Designer.
Create two pictures "NewPDL1.pdl" and "NewPDL2.pdl". These pictures should contain
objects which allow a distinction to be made between the objects.
Insert a button into a new picture.
Insert a picture window into the picture. Enter the picture name "NewPDL1.pdl" in the
"Picture Name" object property.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object Properties" dialog of the button and click the "Event" tab (if not already
activated).
2. In the left-hand window area, select the mouse as the event trigger.
3. In the right-hand window area, select Mouse Control as the event type.
button belonging to the Fill Level property and select the Tag... command
4. Right-click the
in the pop-up menu.

The "Direct Connection" dialog opens.

5. In the Source area, select a constant as the source of the direct connection.
Click the

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6. In the "Target" area, select the object "PictureWindow1" and the property "Picture Name".

7. In the "Direct Connection" dialog, click the "OK" button. Dynamizing by means of direct
connection is indicated in the Object Properties dialog with the
icon.
8. Save the picture and activate Runtime using the

button.

9. In Runtime, the picture "NewPdl1.pdl" is displayed in the picture window. If you click the
"Button" object, a picture change occurs in the picture window and the picture
"NewPdl2.pdl" is displayed.

See also
Dynamizing by Means of Direct Connection (Page841)

4.8

Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog

4.8.1

Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog

Introduction
The Dynamic Dialog is used to dynamize object properties. In Dynamic Dialog you formulate
an expression by using tags, functions, and arithmetic operands. The value of the expression,

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the status as well as the quality code of tags used within the expression are used to form the
object property value in Runtime.
The Dynamic Dialog may be used for the following purposes:
Map the value ranges of a tag into colors
Monitor single tag bits and map bit value onto colors or texts
Monitor a Boolean tag and map bit value onto colors or texts
Monitor tag status
Monitor tag quality code
Note
If you divide two tags in a dynamic dialog, the decimal places are removed in the result. In
the generated C code, a "LONG" is erroneously placed before the "GetTagDouble".
Remove the "LONG" so that the result of the division is output correctly.
Note
When using several tags or operands, the essential performance advantage of Dynamic
Dialog is lost.

Convert to C Action
An action created with Dynamic Dialog is indicated in the "Object Properties" dialog with the
icon.
The code of this action is displayed if you use the right mouse button to click the
icon in
the "Object Properties" dialog and select the command "C Action..." in the pop-up menu. This
converts the dynamization created with Dynamic Dialog into a C action.
If you save the action or modify the code of the action, the action may no longer be modified
by using the Dynamic Dialog.
Note
The "check_limits" feature generated during conversion of the Dynamic Dialog is reserved
for the Dynamic Wizards.

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See also
Example: Color Change Depending on Position (Page864)
Monitoring Quality Code (Page859)
Monitoring Tag Status (Page857)
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
Creating Expressions (Page850)
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)

4.8.2

How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog

Requirement
Start the Graphics Designer and open a picture.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object properties" dialog of the object to be dynamized.
2. Click the Properties tab.
3. In the left window area, select the property group which contains the property to be
dynamized.
4. In the right window area, select the property to be dynamized.
5. With the right mouse button, click the
button belonging to the property and select the
Dynamic Dialog... command in the pop-up menu.

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6. The Dynamic dialog opens.

7.

Click the

button and specify the trigger.

8. In the Result of Expression/Formula area, specify the data type of the expression
result.
The data type determines the options to specify the printout and to define the value ranges.
9. In the Expression/Formula area specify the expression which will control the object
properties.
You may enter the expression either directly or add tags, functions and operands to your
expression by using the

button.

10.Click the button "Check" to check the syntax of your expression.

11.Specify the valid ranges in the "Result of Expression/Formula" area.
12.Assign a value to the object properties of each valid range.
13.Specify whether or not to perform an analysis of the tag status of quality code of a tag.
Assign values to the object properties of the desired status or quality codes, if any.
14.Close the tag selection dialog by clicking the Apply button.
Dynamizing using the Dynamic dialog is indicated in the Object Properties dialog by the
icon.

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Note
If you do not set a trigger, the trigger event is defaulted by the system. The default values
are dependent upon the contents of the formulated expression.
The direct connection to a text tag as output value of the I/O field cannot be dynamized using
"Direct" data type in the Dynamic dialog.

See also
Example: Color Change Depending on Position (Page864)
Monitoring Quality Code (Page859)
Monitoring Tag Status (Page857)
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
Creating Expressions (Page850)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

4.8.3

Creating Expressions

Introduction
In Dynamic Dialog you formulate an expression by using tags, functions, and arithmetic
operands. The value of the expression is used to formulate the value of the object property
during Runtime.
The options to formulate the expression are dependent upon the desired data type of the
printout result.

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Formulating the Expression for Analog, Boolean, Direct Data Types

Tags
Tags may be entered either directly or by clicking the
button and the tag selection dialog.
For direct entry, make sure that tag names are included in single quotation marks.
Note
If you enter the name of a tag which cannot be found, the dialog Missing tags appears.
Click the OK button to define a new tag with this name. Click the Cancel button to edit the
tag name.
Click the Ignore button to link the attribute with a nonexistent tag. This is useful, for example,
if you work with structure tags in a picture window or subsequently wish to import tags. Check
prior to commissioning that the respective tag is actually found in the system.

Functions
Functions may be entered either directly or by using the
button and the function browser.
You may use all C functions of the Global Script within an expression.

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Operands
button. Within an expression,
Operands may be entered either directly or by using the
operands may be used for addition, subtraction, multiplication or division.
Decimal numbers may be entered directly. Only a period is permissible as the decimal point.
Note
When using several tags or operands, the essential performance advantage of Dynamic
Dialog is lost.

Creating an Expression for Bit Data Types

Tags
Tags may be entered either directly or by clicking the
button and the tag selection dialog.
For direct entry, make sure that tag names are included in single quotation marks.

Masking Relevant Bits

For 8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit tags, clicking the
bits.

852

button will open a dialog to mask the relevant

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Checking the Expression Syntax

Clicking the Check or Apply buttons, the syntax of the expression will be checked. You will
receive an error message if the expression contains an error.

Clicking the Details button, you will receive additional information on the error message.
Note
Clicking the Check or Apply buttons will sort the list of value ranges Result of Expression/
Formula in ascending order by range upper limit.

See also
Example: Color Change Depending on Position (Page864)
Monitoring Quality Code (Page859)
Monitoring Tag Status (Page857)
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

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4.8.4

Defining a Valid Range

Value Ranges for an Expression of Data Type Analog

For an expression of data type Analog, you may specify several value ranges. Use the Add
button to create new value ranges. A new value range is always created between the most
recently creates value range and the range Other.
The upper limit of a value range is changed by double-clicking the respective value in column
to.
The applicable value of an object property in a value range is changed by double-clicking the
respective value in the column of the object property.
Settings shown in the picture have the following effect:
If the value of the tag Position is less or equal 100, the property Position X is set to 300.
If the value of the tag Position is greater than 100 and less or equal 200, the property
Position X is set to 500.
If the value of the tag Position is greater than 200, the property Position X is set to 0.

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Value Ranges for an Expression of Data Type Boolean

The applicable value of an object property in a value range is changed by double-clicking the
respective value in the column of the object property.
Settings shown in the picture have the following effect:
If the tag Position equals TRUE, the property Position X is set to 300.
If the tag Position equals FALSE, the property Position X is set to 0.

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Value Ranges for an Expression of Data Type Bit

The applicable value of an object property in a value range is changed by double-clicking the
respective value in the column of the object property.
Settings shown in the picture have the following effect:
If Bit4 of the tag Position is set, the property Position X is set to 300.
If Bit4 of the tag Position is not set, the property Position X is set to 0.

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Value Ranges for an Expression of Data Type Direct

Settings shown in the picture have the following effect:

The value of tag Position is divided by 10. The result of this calculation is accepted as the
value for the object property to be dynamized.

See also
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
Example: Color Change Depending on Position (Page864)
Monitoring Quality Code (Page859)
Monitoring Tag Status (Page857)
Creating Expressions (Page850)
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

4.8.5

Monitoring Tag Status

Introduction
Dynamizing by using the Dynamic Dialog may also be used to monitor the status of a WinCC
tag in Runtime. Monitoring the tag status will also allow for conclusions on the status of
associated links for external tags.
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If you activate the check box Tag Status, the Dynamic Dialog is extended.

The left subarea will display all tags used in the expression.
In the right subarea, you may assign a value for each tag status of the object property to be
dynamized. The applicable value of an object property for a tag status is changed by doubleclicking the respective value in the column of the object property.
Note
If definitions for the value of an object property in the areas Result of Expression/Formula
and Tag status contradict each other, the value of the object property is determined by the
definition in area Tag status.

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See also
Example: Color Change Depending on Position (Page864)
Monitoring Quality Code (Page859)
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
Creating Expressions (Page850)
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

4.8.6

Monitoring Quality Code

Introduction
Dynamizing by using the Dynamic Dialog may also be used to monitor the quality code of a
WinCC tag in Runtime. Monitoring the quality code of external tags will also allow for
conclusions on the quality of associated tags during the process.
If you activate the check box Quality Code, the Dynamic Dialog is extended.

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The left subarea will display all tags used in the expression.
In the right subarea, you may assign a value for each quality code of the object property to be
dynamized. The applicable value of an object property in a quality code is changed by doubleclicking the respective value in the column of the object property.
Note
If definitions for the value of an object property in the areas Result of the Expression/Formula
and Quality Code contradict each other, the value of the object property is determined by the
definition in area Quality Code.

Quality Codes that can be Dynamized

In the right-hand portion of the Dynamic dialog, a selection of the possible Quality Codes is
shown. The missing Quality Codes are combined in the collection signals "bad miscellaneous
state" and "uncertain miscellaneous states".

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The Quality Codes that are offered in the Dynamic dialog are found in the following table. This
list of Quality Codes is ordered by descending priority. If an expression is comprised of several
tags, the expression contains the Quality Code of the tags for which the Quality Code is highest
in the table.
Quality Code
(Hex)

0x1C

bad (0x1C) out of service

0x18

bad (0x18) no communication (no usable value)

0x14

bad (0x14) no communication (last usable value)

0x0C

bad (0x0C) device failure

0x08

bad (0x08) not connected

0x04

bad (0x04) configuration error, value not accepted

0x00

bad (0x00) non specific

0x28

bad (0x28) process related, substitute value

0x2B

bad (0x2B) process related, no maintenance

remaining codes with quality bad

bad miscellaneous states

0x68

uncertain (0x68) maintenance demanded

0x60

uncertain (0x60) simulated value

0x54

uncertain (0x54) engineering unit range violation, no limits set

0x55

uncertain (0x55) engineering unit range violation, low limits set

0x56

uncertain (0x56) engineering unit range violation, high limits

set

0x78

uncertain (0x78) process related, no maintenance

0x4C

uncertain (0x4C) initial value

0x48

uncertain (0x48) substitute set

0x44

uncertain (0x44) last usable value

0x40

uncertain (0x40) non specific

remaining codes with quality uncertain uncertain miscellaneous states

0x02

high limited (0x02)

0x01

low limited (0x01)

See also
Example: Color Change Depending on Position (Page864)
Editing Triggers (Page862)
Monitoring Tag Status (Page857)
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
Creating Expressions (Page850)
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

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4.8.7

Editing Triggers

Introduction
If you do not set a trigger, the trigger event is defaulted by the system. The default setting
depends on the content of the formulated expression in the Dynamic dialog.
If the expression contains one or more tags, a tag trigger with the standard cycle set in the
Graphics Designer is used as the trigger. All tags contained in the expression are entered
in the tag list.
If the expression does not contain any tags, a cyclic trigger with the standard cycle set in
the Graphics Designer is used as the trigger.

Trigger Events
The following trigger events are available in the Dynamic dialog.
Tag: A tag trigger is used as the trigger. The query can be performed either when a change
is made or cyclically. Query cycles between 250 ms and 1 h can be selected. Self-defined
user cycles are also available.
Standard cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. Cycle times between 250 ms and 1
h can be selected. Self-defined user cycles are also available.
Picture cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object
property Update Cycle of the picture object. This cycle provides the option of defining the
cycles of all the actions used in a picture centrally.
Window cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object
property Update Cycle of the Picture Window object. This cycle provides the option of
defining the cycles of all the actions used in a picture window centrally.
Note
It is important to remember that the cycle time has a major effect on the performance of
the project. All the actions of a picture must be completed within their cycle time. Apart
from the runtimes of the actions, the times required for requesting the tag values and the
reaction times of the automation systems must also be taken into consideration. You
should only set trigger events with a cycle time under one second if variables which change
rapidly have to be queried.

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Requirement
Open the Dynamic dialog

Procedure
1.

Click the

button in the "Event Name" area.

2. The Change Trigger dialog opens.

3. Select the desired trigger event in the Event section.

4. Select the desired cycle time in the Cycle section.
5. For the trigger events Standard Cycle, Picture Cycle, and Window Cycle, you can enter a
specific name for your trigger in the Trigger Name field.
6. Click "OK".

See also
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

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4.8.8

Example: Color Change Depending on Position

Introduction
The position of a workpiece is to influence the background color of the workpiece. In the
example, the workpiece is simulated by a rectangle and the position by an internal tag. The
position may be changed by using an I/O field.

Requirement
Configure a "Position" tag of data type "Unsigned 16-Bit Value".
Start Graphics Designer and open a picture.
Insert an I/O field into the picture and connect it to the "Position" tag.
Insert a rectangle into the picture. Dynamize the "Position X" object property by means of
a tag connection to the "Position" tag.

Procedure
1. Open the "Object properties" dialog of the rectangle and click the "Properties" tab, unless
already activated.
2. In the left-hand window area, select the "Colors" property group.
3. Use the right mouse button to click the
button next to the property Background color.
From the pop-up menu, select the command "Dynamic Dialog...".

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4. The Dynamic dialog opens.

5.

In the Expression/Formula area, left-click the

command.
The tag selection dialog opens.

button and select the Tag...

6. In the tag selection dialog, select the "Position" tag and close the tag selection dialog using
the "OK" button.
7. Click the Add button in the Result of Expression / Formula area.
The first value range is created.
8. In the Background color column, double-click the color bar and select green as the
background color.
9. Click the Add button in the Result of Expression / Formula area.
The second value range is created.
10.In the Background color column, double-click the color bar and select yellow as the
background color.
11.Double-click the value "200" in the "to" column. Enter "300" in the value entry dialog.
12.Click the Add button in the Result of Expression / Formula area.
The third value range is created.
13.In the Background color column, double-click the color bar and select red as the background
color.
14.Click the "Accept" button.
15.Dynamizing using the Dynamic dialog is indicated in the Object properties dialog with the
icon. A tag trigger with the standard cycle set in the Graphics Designer is used as the
trigger.

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16.Save the picture and activate Runtime using the

button.

17.In Runtime, you may change the X position of the rectangle by using the I/O field. Four
value ranges (0-100, 101-300, 301-500, 501-...) have been defined by Dynamic Dialog
dynamization. The background color of the rectangle changes according to the value range
in which the left-hand edge of the rectangle is located.

See also
Monitoring Quality Code (Page859)
Monitoring Tag Status (Page857)
Defining a Valid Range (Page854)
Creating Expressions (Page850)
How to Configure Dynamization Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page848)
Dynamizing Using the Dynamic Dialog (Page846)

4.9

Dynamizing Using VBS Action

4.9.1

Dynamizing Using VBS Action

Introduction
Apart from the dynamization options using direct connection, C action, and tags, WinCC also
offers VBS actions for dynamizing graphic objects in Runtime.
You should use VBS actions if
you want to process several input parameters in an action
you want to execute conditional instructions (if ... then ...)
you want to change several object properties in an action
you want to access selection dialogs of the operating system, e.g. file selection dialog or
color selection dialog
You create VBS actions in the VBS action editor of the Graphics Designer. The action editor
offers a similar range of functions to the VBS editor Global Script. From the Graphics Designer
you can also access procedures which you have created in Global Script.
Actions which you create in the Graphics Designer are always stored with the picture in which
they have been configured. In addition to all configured object properties, the configured VBS
actions are also documented in the project documentation of the Graphics Designer. All of the
VBS actions configured in this picture are displayed if you select a picture in the WinCC
Explorer and call up the Properties dialog using the pop-up menu.
Further information on VBS actions can be found in the section Creating Procedures and
Actions Using VBScript.

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Application Scenarios
VBS Action for Dynamizing Object Properties
You use VBS actions for dynamizing an object property. You can dynamize the value of the
object property in Runtime depending on a trigger, a tag, or the status of other object properties.
You should use a VBS action if the options provided by tag connection or the Dynamic dialog
are not sufficient to solve the task in question.

VBS Action for Events

You can use a VBS action to react to an event which occurs at a graphic object. You should
use a VBS action if the options provided by tag connection or the Dynamic dialog are not
sufficient to solve the task in question.
The use of actions to react to changes to object properties influences performance in Runtime.
The event occurs if the value of the object property changes. The action associated with the
event is then started. When a picture is closed, all of the started actions are stopped one by
one. This can cause high system loads.

See also
Editing Triggers (Page875)
How to Configure a VBS Action (Page874)
Working in Action Editor (Page871)
Action Editor in Graphics Designer (Page868)
Working with VBS Actions (Page867)
Types of Dynamization (Page815)

4.9.2

Working with VBS Actions

Introduction
If you create VBS actions in the Graphics Designer, it is important to note the following
differences compared to actions in Global Script:
An action in the Graphics Designer is always saved with the picture.
If you copy a graphic object for which you have configured an action, the action is copied
together with the properties of the graphic object.
Actions can only be saved in the Graphics Designer if they have the correct syntax.
Therefore use the syntax check before you save an action.
You cannot create globally applicable procedures in the Graphics Designer.

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Working with Actions

The editor for VBS actions in the Graphics Designer provides the following options:
Before you save an action, check it to make sure that it is syntactically correct.
To do so, click the
button in the toolbar or select the appropriate command from the
pop-up menu in the VBS dialog.
To delete actions from object properties, open the Object Properties dialog of the graphic
object and select the relevant command from the pop-up menu:

If a different type of dynamics is configured for a property or event, the previous type of
dynamizing is automatically deleted.

See also
Editing Triggers (Page875)
How to Configure a VBS Action (Page874)
Working in Action Editor (Page871)
Action Editor in Graphics Designer (Page868)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)

4.9.3

Action Editor in Graphics Designer

Introduction
You create and process VBS actions at graphic objects in the editor for VBS actions in the
Graphics Designer. The action editor offers a similar range of functions to the VBS editor Global
Script.

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Calling Action Editor

You start the editor for VBS actions from the Object Properties dialog of a graphic object in
the Graphics Designer. If you configure an action to dynamize an object property, you call the
dialog in the Properties tab. Place the mouse pointer in the Dynamic column and select the
VBS Action command from the pop-up menu:

If you want to react to an event at a graphic object using an action, you call the dialog in the
Event tab. Place the mouse pointer in the Action column and select the VBS Action command
from the pop-up menu:

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Layout of Action Editor

The editor for VBS actions offers a similar range of functions to the VBS editor Global Script.

Toolbar (1)
In the toolbar you will find all the commands needed to create actions.

Navigation window (2)

You manage your actions in the navigation window. Here you will also find:
Project and standard procedures which you have created in Global Script and which you
can insert into your action code (drag and drop).
Code templates which you can insert into your action or procedure (drag and drop).

Editor window (3)

You write and edit your actions in the Editor window.

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See also
Editing Triggers (Page875)
How to Configure a VBS Action (Page874)
Working with VBS Actions (Page867)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)
Working in Action Editor (Page871)

4.9.4

Working in Action Editor

Declaration Area in Actions

If you create actions in Graphics Designer, you can display the declaration area of the action
using the button
. When creating a new action, the Option explicit instruction is
automatically entered in the declaration area and cannot be deleted. The instruction is
necessary as it prevents errors caused by the incorrect notation of tags without declaration.
The instruction requires that tags are always defined in your code with the Dim instruction.
Do not use the instruction Option explicit in your code as this can cause runtime errors.
In the declaration area, you can also make general settings which you want to use globally for
the current picture, e.g.:
Tag Definitions
Procedures which you only want to use in this picture
In the declaration area of the actions, you may define global tags independent of each other
in the areas Event and Properties of an object. There is no link between global tags of identical
names in both areas.
Note
Always make sure that the procedures in the declaration area have correct syntax, i.e. with
Sub - End Sub. Do not create directly executable codes in the declaration area as this can
cause runtime errors.
Please note that when creating a tag, it must not contain a value (Value = VT_EMPTY).
Initialize the tags after declaration with the corresponding value.
In the general declaration part of screens, no check is made whether a procedure or function
name has already been assigned. Therefore, a name could occur several times and it is not
defined which function will be executed. This is standard behavior of the MS Scripting Engine.

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Intellisense and Highlight Syntax

During text entry, context-sensitive lists appear containing the properties, methods, and objects
possible at the current code position. If you insert an element from the list, the required syntax
is also indicated automatically.
Note
Full intellisense for all objects can only be utilized in the Graphics Designer if the list is
accessed using the object name and the result is assigned to a tag. Otherwise, you are only
offered a list of standard properties.
Example of full intellisense:
Dim Tag
Set Tag = ScreenItems (Circle1)
Variable.<Intellisense selection>
If picture window limits are exceeded during addressing, it is once again only the standard
properties which are offered since the picture of the picture window is not loaded.

General VBS Functions

Using the pop-up menu in the Editor window you can view a list of the possible VBS standard
functions, e.g. Abs, Array, ... , Year.

Lists of Objects, Properties and Methods

Using the pop-up menu in the Editor window you can view a list of the possible objects by
calling the Object List command in Graphics Designer.
Use the Properties/Methods pop-up menu command to call in a list of possible properties and
methods.
The same lists can be called in with the key combination <CTRL + SPACEBAR> but according
to the context of the script.

Code Templates
In the Code templates tab in the Navigation window of the Editor, you will find a selection of
frequently used instructions, e.g. for loops and conditional instructions. You can insert these
templates into your process code by dragging and dropping or by double-clicking.
If you insert a code template into your code, it is important to note that, for example, conditions
in the templates are identified by _XYZ_. You must replace these placeholders with the
appropriate information.

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Selection Dialogs
If you use WinCC tags or picture objects in the code, you can open the following selection
dialogs:

Opens the tag selection dialog and gives the selected tag name as the return value.

Opens a tag selection dialog and returns the tag name with an associated reference.
Opens a picture/object browser in which a picture/object can be selected whose name
is then used for the return value.
Opens a picture selection dialog for pictures and returns the picture name, with the
server prefix if necessary.

Syntax Check
The Action Editor supports you by providing a syntax check which you can perform after the
code has been created. Syntax errors in the code are displayed in the output window of the
editor. You can move to the erroneous point in the code directly by double-clicking the error
in the output window.
Note
The syntax check can only detect syntax errors in the code. Programming errors, such as
missing references, only become visible in Runtime. You should therefore also always check
your scripts in the Runtime environment.

See also
Editing Triggers (Page875)
How to Configure a VBS Action (Page874)
Working with VBS Actions (Page867)
Action Editor in Graphics Designer (Page868)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)

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4.9.5

How to Configure a VBS Action

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer you configure VBS actions to
dynamize an object property. You can, for example, display a fill level according to a tag
value, implement a color change if a tag value is exceeded, or create cyclic actions (e.g.
flashing).
react to an event which is triggered on an object: This can involve the execution of actions,
for example, on clicking the mouse or a color change following the change of an object
property.
The procedure is basically the same for both types of action.

Executing Actions in Runtime

An action which you have configured for an event is executed whenever the triggering event
(e.g. mouse click) occurs.
Actions which you have used to dynamize object properties always need a trigger for execution.
Actions without trigger are not executed in Runtime.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties dialog of the object for which you want to configure an action.
2. Activate the Properties tab if you want to dynamize an object property.
Activate the Event tab if you want to react to an event with an action.
3. Highlight the Dynamic column of the object property which you want to dynamize, or the
Action column of the event to which you want to react. Select the command VBS Action
from the pop-up menu.
The editor for VBS actions is opened.
4. Create the VBS action.
5. Check your action with <F7>. If your action contains syntax errors, they are displayed in
an output window. Correct the code and check it again.
6. If your action is syntactically correct, exit the dialog with OK.
Note
Actions can only be saved in the Graphics Designer if they have the correct syntax. To save
an erroneous action temporarily, you must first remove the comment from the action.

Result
The action is displayed in the Object Properties dialog of the object with the following symbol:

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See also
Editing Triggers (Page875)
How to Configure a VBS Action (Page874)
Working in Action Editor (Page871)
Action Editor in Graphics Designer (Page868)
Working with VBS Actions (Page867)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)

4.9.6

Editing Triggers

Introduction
If you configure an action for an event, you do not have to configure a trigger. The event is the
trigger for the action. You have to assign triggers if you configure an action for dynamizing an
object property.
A cyclic trigger with the standard cycle set in the Graphics Designer is used by default as the
trigger.

Trigger Events
The following trigger events are available in the editor for VBS actions.
Tag: A tag trigger is used as the trigger. The query can be performed either when a change
is made or cyclically. Query cycles between 250 ms and 1 h can be selected. Self-defined
user cycles are also available.
Standard cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. Cycle times between 250 ms and 1
h can be selected. Self-defined user cycles are also available.
Picture cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object
property Update Cycle of the picture object. This cycle provides the option of defining the
cycles of all the actions used in a picture centrally.
Window cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object
property Update Cycle of the Picture Window object. This cycle provides the option of
defining the cycles of all the actions used in a picture window centrally.
Note
It is important to remember that the cycle time has a major effect on the performance of
the project. All the actions of a picture must be completed within their cycle time. Apart
from the runtimes of the actions, the times required for requesting the tag values and the
reaction times of the automation systems must also be taken into consideration. You
should only set trigger events with a cycle time under one second if variables which change
rapidly have to be queried.

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Automatic Ending of Actions

After a change of picture, scripts still running are automatically stopped 1 minute after the
change of picture.
Scripts which are still running when runtime is terminated are stopped after 5 seconds.

Requirement
Open the editor for VBS actions.

Procedure
1.

In the toolbar, click the

button.
The Change Trigger dialog opens.

2. Select the desired trigger event in the Event section.

3. Select the desired cycle time in the Cycle section.
4. For the trigger events Standard Cycle, Picture Cycle, and Window Cycle, you can enter a
specific name for your trigger in the Trigger Name field.
5. Click "OK".

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See also
How to Configure a VBS Action (Page874)
Working in Action Editor (Page871)
Action Editor in Graphics Designer (Page868)
Working with VBS Actions (Page867)
Dynamizing Using VBS Action (Page866)
Trigger Types (Page819)

4.10

Dynamizing Using C Action

4.10.1

Dynamizing Using C Action

Introduction
C actions are used to dynamize an object property or to react to events. When object properties
are dynamized, the value of the object property is determined by the return value of the C
function.
Use C actions if, for example, you want to process several input parameters in one action or
you want to execute conditional instructions (if ... then ...). It is advisable to use C actions
especially if in the case of recipes, for example, you want to access several tags in the
automation system at the same time.

Application Scenarios
C Action for Dynamizing Object Properties
You use C actions for dynamizing an object property. You can dynamize the value of the object
property in Runtime depending on a trigger, a tag, or the status of other object properties. You
should use a C action if the options provided by tag connection or the Dynamic dialog are not
sufficient to solve the task in question.

C Action As Reaction to Events

You can use C actions to react to an event which occurs at a graphic object. You should use
a C action if the options provided by tag connection or the Dynamic dialog are not sufficient to
solve the task in question.
The use of actions to react to changes to object properties influences performance in Runtime.
The event occurs if the value of the object property changes. The action associated with the
event is then started. When a picture is closed, all of the started actions are stopped one by
one. This can cause high system loads.

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See also
Types of Dynamization (Page815)
Importing and Exporting Actions (Page886)
Editing Triggers (Page883)
How to Apply Functions in the Action Code (Page882)
How to Configure a C Action (Page879)
Working with C Actions (Page878)

4.10.2

Working with C Actions

Introduction
If you create C actions in the Graphics Designer, it is important to note the following differences
compared to actions in Global Script:
An action in the Graphics Designer is always saved with the picture.
If you copy a graphic object for which you have configured an action, the action is copied
together with the properties of the graphic object.
Actions can be saved in the Graphics Designer if they can be compiled without error.
You cannot create functions in the Graphics Designer; you can only call functions in actions
which you have created in Global Script.

Layout of Editor for C Actions

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Toolbar
In the toolbar you will find the commands needed to create actions.

Navigation window
The navigation window enables you to access the existing C functions. You can apply these
functions to the function code by double-clicking.

Edit Window
You write and edit your C actions in the Editor window.
In order to utilize the functions of the Cross Reference editor used to locate the places of use
of tag and picture names, the tag and picture names used in a C action must first be declared.
This is done in the areas WINCC:TAGNAME_SECTION and WINCC:PICNAME_SECTION.
More detailed information can be found under WinCC Coding Rules

See also
Importing and Exporting Actions (Page886)
Editing Triggers (Page883)
How to Apply Functions in the Action Code (Page882)
How to Configure a C Action (Page879)
Dynamizing Using C Action (Page877)

4.10.3

How to Configure a C Action

Introduction
In the Graphics Designer you configure C actions to
dynamize an object property. You can, for example, display a fill level according to a tag
value, implement a color change if a tag value is exceeded, or create cyclic actions (e.g.
flashing).
react to an event which is triggered on an object: This can involve the execution of actions,
for example, on clicking the mouse or a color change following the change of an object
property.
The procedure is basically the same for both types of action.

Processing of Actions in Runtime

An action which you have configured for an event is executed whenever the triggering event
(e.g. mouse click) occurs.

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Actions which you have used to dynamize object properties always need a trigger for execution.
Actions without trigger are not executed in Runtime.

Requirement
Start the Graphics Designer and open a picture.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties dialog of the object to be dynamized.
2. To dynamize an object property: In the left window area, select the property group. In the
right window area, select the property.
3. To configure a reaction to an event: In the left-hand window area, select the event trigger,
e.g. mouse, background color, etc. In the right window area, select the type of the event:
e.g. mouse click, change, etc.
4. Right-click the associated
menu.

880

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5. The editor for C actions opens.

6. Formulate the C function.

7.

Click the

button and specify the trigger.

8. Click on the
command button. The function is compiled. This process is indicated in the
status bar of the dialog by the message "Compile Action...".
9. If compilation has been completed without error, the message 0 Error(s), 0 Warning(s) is
displayed in the status bar. Click on the OK button. The Edit Action dialog is closed.
Dynamizing using a C action is indicated in the Object Properties dialog by the
icon.
10.If compilation has not been completed without error, the number of errors and warnings is
displayed in the status bar. More detailed information about the errors is shown at the
bottom of the Editor window.

11.Correct all errors. Recompile the function. Close the dialog by activating the "OK"
button.
Dynamizing using a C action is indicated in the Object Properties dialog by the
icon.

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See also
Importing and Exporting Actions (Page886)
Editing Triggers (Page883)
Working with C Actions (Page878)
Dynamizing Using C Action (Page877)
How to Apply Functions in the Action Code (Page882)

4.10.4

How to Apply Functions in the Action Code

Introduction
You can use internal functions, standard functions, or project functions within your action. The
function is always inserted in the action code at the cursor position.

Requirement
Open the editor for C actions.

How to Export an Action

1. Place the cursor at the point at which the function is to be inserted.
2. In the navigation window, double-click the function to be inserted.
3. If the function to be inserted has parameters, the Set Parameters dialog opens.

4. This dialog shows a list of all parameters belonging to the function to be inserted, and allows
you to set parameters for this function.
5. In the Value column, click the parameter which you want to set.

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6. You can enter tags either directly or using the ... button and the tag selection dialog.
You can enter objects and object properties either directly or using the ... button and the
selection dialog for pictures, objects, and object properties.
You can enter pictures either directly or using the ... button and the picture selection
dialog.
With direct entry, make sure that you put names between quotation marks.
7. Click the OK button.
The Set Parameters dialog is closed and the function is inserted in the action code at the
cursor position.

Alternative Operation
You can also open the Set Parameters dialog using the commands Apply or Parameter
Assignment in the pop-up menu of the functions in the navigation window.

Notes on special functions

The SetProperty function should not be used within a C-action because it initiates a 'Redraw'
of the picture.

See also
Working with C Actions (Page878)
Dynamizing Using C Action (Page877)

4.10.5

Editing Triggers

Introduction
If you configure an action for an event, you do not have to configure a trigger. The event is the
trigger for the action.
You have to assign a trigger if you configure an action for dynamizing an object property. A
cyclic trigger with the standard cycle set in the Graphics Designer is used by default as the
trigger.

Trigger Events
The following trigger events are available in the Edit C Action dialog.
Tag: A tag trigger is used as the trigger. The query can be performed either when a change
is made or cyclically. Query cycles between 250 ms and 1 h can be selected. Self-defined
user cycles are also available.
Standard cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. Cycle times between 250 ms and 1
h can be selected. Self-defined user cycles are also available.

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Picture cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object
property Update Cycle of the picture object. This cycle provides the option of defining the
cycles of all the actions used in a picture centrally.
Window cycle: A cyclic trigger is used as the trigger. The cycle time is defined by the object
property Update Cycle of the Picture Window object. This cycle provides the option of
defining the cycles of all the actions used in a picture window centrally.
Note
It is important to remember that the cycle time has a major effect on the performance of
the project. All the actions of a picture must be completed within their cycle time. Apart
from the runtimes of the actions, the times required for requesting the tag values and the
reaction times of the automation systems must also be taken into consideration. You
should only set trigger events with a cycle time under one second if variables which change
rapidly have to be queried.

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Requirement
Open the editor for C actions in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1.

In the toolbar, click the

button.

2. Select the desired trigger event in the Event section.

3. Select the desired cycle time in the Cycle section.
4. For the trigger events Standard Cycle, Picture Cycle, and Window Cycle, you can enter a
specific name for your trigger in the Trigger Name field.
5. Click "OK".

See also
How to Configure a C Action (Page879)
Working with C Actions (Page878)
Dynamizing Using C Action (Page877)

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4.10.6

Importing and Exporting Actions

Introduction
In order to transfer an action to a different object or object property, you can export and then
import the function code.
When exporting, no check is performed to determine whether or not the function code can be
compiled without error.

Requirement
Open the editor for C actions.

How to Export an Action

1. Click the

button in the toolbar.

2. The file selection dialog opens.

Enter an appropriate name for the exported file. Click OK. Click OK.

How to Import an Action

1. Click the

button in the toolbar.

2. The file selection dialog opens.

Select the file containing the function code to be imported. Click OK. Click OK.

See also
Working with C Actions (Page878)
Dynamizing Using C Action (Page877)

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5

Resources

5.1

WinCC Alarm Logging

Content
The signaling system
Access to comprehensive information about error and operating states
Early detection of critical situations
Prevention of and reduction in downtime
Quality improvements
Targeted documentation of error and operating states
You use the "Alarm Logging" editor to configure the following:
Preparation of messages
Representation of messages in runtime
Acknowledgement of messages
Archiving of messages

5.2

Message System in WinCC

Introduction
The message system processes results from functions that monitor actions in the process, on
the automation level and in the WinCC System. The message system indicates detected alarm
events both visually and acoustically and archives them electronically and on paper. Direct
access to the messages and supplementary information for individual messages ensures that
faults are localized and cleared quickly.

Archiving
Depending on the message class, changes that occur in message states are written to
configurable archives.
Archiving takes place in the message archive. For this purpose, various parameters such as
the archive size, time range, switchover time, etc., are set. If one of the configured criteria is

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exceeded, the oldest messages in the archive are overwritten. The backup of the archiving
databases can be specified through additional settings.
Display of messages saved in a message archive takes place in a long-term archive list or a
short-term archive list. Display of messages in the short-term archive list is updated
immediately upon receipt of a new incoming message.

Hiding Messages
Hiding messages reduces the information load for the system user. You can select whether
the messages are to be displayed in the message list, short-term archive list and long-term
archive list. The display depends on the activated option in the "Display Options" dialog. The
possible options are:
Display All Messages
Display visible messages (default setting)
Display Hidden Messages
The hidden messages are displayed in the list of messages to be hidden and can be shown
again.
You can hide messages in two ways:
Automatic hide: Messages are hidden and shown again later depending on a certain status
of the hide tag. You can configure the condition for hide or show using the hide mask.
Hide Manually: In the message window, you can use a button to define when you want to
hide a message. You can also show the messages again using another button. The system
displays the messages again after a configurable time.

Operator Input Message

An operation in the process can trigger an operator input message.
The configuration of an operator input message depends on the object being operated and
the type of operation:

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For the control of certain objects, such as the input of a value in an I/O field, you have the
option of activating the "Operator Input Message" property for the respective object in the
Graphics Designer. This is done by setting the "Operator Input Message" attribute. The
structure of this message cannot be edited. The message number of the operator input
message is "12508141". The operator input message contains the value before the
operation (old value) in process value block 2, and the modified value (new value) in process
value block 3.
By activating the "Operator Activities Report" attribute, the user can enter the reason for
an operation as a comment on the message in a dialog after he performs the operation.
The "Operator Activities Report" comment can be viewed in the long-term archive list using
the "Comment" button. The Comment dialog only shows the old value and new value for
the operator input message "12508141".
For operating optional graphic WinCC objects, you can configure your own operator
message as a C action or as a VBS action.
Execute the respective C action as a reaction to the operation event. In this case, the
operation event can be e.g. the mouse click on the WinCC object. Configure your own
operator input message with the "GCreateMyOperationMsg" function from the "Alarms"
function group.
Execute the respective VBS action as a reaction to the operation event. In this case,
the operation event can be e.g. the mouse click on the WinCC object. Configure your
own operation message with the "HMIRuntime.Alarms" object.
For the operation of a message, such as the acknowledgement of locking/releasing or
message, an operator input message is configured in the WinCC Alarm Logging. You must
create the WinCC system messages in the Alarm Logging Editor for this purpose.
By default, an operator input message may contain information on the logged-on user and
current computer. For this purpose, you add the "User name" and "Computer name" system
blocks in the Alarm Logging Editor. You add the system blocks to the selected message
blocks on the "Message Lists" tab in the WinCC AlarmControl.
The triggering event for an operational message is activated in the WinCC AlarmControl
on the "Operator input messages" tab. You can also configure the operator input message
itself there. Before WinCC V7, the triggering events for an operator input message are
activated in the WinCC Alarm Control on the "Message Lists" tab using the "Operator Input
Message" button.
To display or enter a comment for a selected operator input message, a dialog can be
opened in the long-term archive list using the "Comment" button. When the "Comment"
system block is inserted in the message line in the AlarmControl, this message block
indicates the existence of a comment for this message.

Single Message, Group Message

WinCC Alarm Logging distinguishes between two message forms:
Single messages. Each event is assigned a separate message.
Group messages are used to compile multiple single messages. In the case of group
messages from message classes, all associated messages and message types are stored.
With user-defined group messages, you can combine any of the single messages into group
messages, which can then be combined to form higher-level group messages.
To automatically display individual messages, you need a customized group message.

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Single Acknowledgement, Group Acknowledgement

A pending message can be acknowledged in two different ways:
Messages that are not assigned the "Group Acknowledgement" attribute must be
acknowledged individually.
Group Acknowledgement can be used to collectively acknowledge all messages with the
"Group Acknowledgement" attribute that are visible in the message window.
The message acknowledgement log can include the identity of the acknowledging user and
computer used. This requires that you insert the "User Name" and "Computer Name" system
blocks in the message line of a message in the WinCC AlarmControl. Upon acknowledgement
of a message, the user name and computer name are not displayed in the message line of
the incoming message but rather are displayed in the operator input message of the
acknowledgement in the short-term archive list and the long-term archive list. The operator
input message must be activated in the WinCC AlarmControl on the "Operator input messages"
tab. Before WinCC V7, the operator input message must be activated in the WinCC
AlarmControl on the "Message lists" tab using the "Operator input message" button.

Events
The message system distinguishes between binary events and monitoring events:
Binary events are state changes of internal or external tags.
Monitoring events are not supported directly from the WinCC Alarm Logging. Monitoring
events include overflow of archives and hard disks, printer messages, server failure and
faulty process communication.

Initial Value Message, New Value Message

The initial value message is a message of a message class with single-mode
acknowledgement, which is highlighted as the first message of the message class by
flashing in the message window.
The new value message is a message of a message class with single-mode
acknowledgement or duel-mode acknowledgement, highlighted by flashing in the message
window.

Alarms
The message system is used to chronologically signal and archive events that occur
sporadically during the process via messages at a central location. A message can be caused
by an event or a message frame.
The message system distinguishes between three messages:
Operating messages are used to display a state in the process.
Alarm messages are used to display an error in the process.
System messages are used to display error messages from other applications.
In Alarm Logging, messages with similar behavior, for example, with the same
acknowledgement theory or color assignment of message states, can be grouped into
message classes and message types.

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Message Classes, Message Types

Message classes are used to define numerous basic settings for messages. Message
classes differ from one another with respect to the acknowledgement theory. The following
message classes are preconfigured in Alarm Logging: "Error", "System, Requires
Acknowledgement", and "System, Without Acknowledgement". You can define up to 16
message classes. Messages with the same acknowledgement theory can be combined
into a single message class.
Message types are subgroups of the message classes and can differ with respect to the
color assignment of the message states. You can create up to 16 message types for each
message class.

Message blocks
The state change of a message is displayed in a message line during runtime. You define the
information you want to have displayed in the message line during configuration of the
message blocks:
System blocks enable the specification of information that is predefined and not freely
utilizable, such as date, time, duration, comment. The value of the message block (for
example, the time of day) is displayed in the message line.
User text blocks enable you to assign a message to up to ten different freely definable texts.
The message line will display the content of the text you defined. The message text of a
user text block can also display a process value. You define the output format for it.
Using process value blocks, you can display the values of tags in the message line. The
formatting that is used for this cannot be user-defined. You specify the associated tags for
the process value blocks.
When usingin multi-user systems the contentof a messagecan be displayed on a client by
configuring the message blocksequally on all servers. This also applies to the output of
alarmsvia theWinCC CAS.

Message Event, Message State

Message events refer to the "coming in", "going out", and "acknowledging" of messages.
All message events are stored in the message archive.
Message states are the possible states of a message: "Came In", "Went Out",
"Acknowledged".

Alarm window
During runtime, the changes in message states are indicated in a message window. You can
configure the appearance and operating options of the message window in the Graphics
Designer.
A message window contains all messages that have yet to be displayed in a table. Each
message to be displayed appears in its own line the message line.
The content of the message window can be influenced by a user-defined filter, for example
sorting according to message blocks.

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Depending on the source of the messages displayed in the Message Window, a distinction is
made between five types of message windows.
Message lists are used for displaying currently pending messages.
Short-term archive lists are used to display messages that are stored in a message archive.
The display of messages is immediately updated when a new message arrives.
Long-term archive lists are used to display messages that are stored in a message archive.
All messages in the system that have been locked are displayed in the lock list. Locked
messages can be unlocked by means of a button in the toolbar.
The hit list contains statistical information on the messages.
The list of hidden messages shows all messages that to be hidden due to automatic or
manual hide in the message list, in the short-term archive list or the long-term archive list.

Message Frames
Message frames originate from either the process or from the process-control monitoring
system. They are exchanged between the control system or the monitoring application and
Alarm Logging.

Message tag
In the bit message procedure, the control system signals the occurrence of an event in the
process by means of the message tag. Several messages can be masked via one message
tag. You can only use a bit of the message tag for a single message.

Message procedure
The message procedure is a result of the configuration of the message. Alarm Logging
supports multiple message procedures:
In the bit message procedure, the control system signals the occurrence of an event by
means of a message tag. The time stamp (date and time) of the message is assigned by
Alarm Logging.
With chronological reporting, the control system transmits a message frame with the
message data when the event occurs. This is evaluated in Alarm Logging. The time stamp
(date and time) of the message is assigned by the controller.
-If the "Acknowledgement-Triggered Messaging" (QTM) procedure is activated on an AS
S7-400, not every signal change is transmitted to the OS. With the QTM procedure, when
messages occur frequently due to sensor chatter, the AS does not send a new message
about a signal change until the last signaled positive signal change (incoming message)
has been acknowledged in the OS.
Limit value monitoring can be used to monitor the course of an analog tag for violation of
the upper and lower limit values.

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Message line
In a message window, each message is displayed in its own message line. The content of the
message line depends on the message blocks to be displayed:
In the case of system message blocks, the value of the message block is displayed, for
example date and time.
In the case of process and user text blocks, the content is displayed, for example, the text
you have defined.

Logging
There are two options available in WinCC AlarmControl for logging messages:
With message sequence reports, all state changes (came in, went out, acknowledged) from
all currently pending messages are output to a printer.
The messages in the individual message lists can be printed out directly via Print Current
View button in WinCC AlarmControl.

Acknowledgement theory
The acknowledgement theory refers to the manner in which a message is to be displayed and
processed from the time it "comes in" to the time it "goes out." The following acknowledgement
theories can be implemented in Alarm Logging:
Single message without acknowledgement
Single message with incoming acknowledgement
Message with dual-mode acknowledgment
Initial value message with single-mode acknowledgment
New-value message with single-mode acknowledgment
New-value message with dual-mode acknowledgment
Message without "Went Out" status and without acknowledgement
Message without "Went Out" status and with acknowledgement

Acknowledgement tag
The acknowledgement tag contains the "Acknowledgement Status" of a message. A central
signaling device can thus be controlled using the acknowledgement tag.

Locking and Unlocking Messages

In order to reduce the number of message events, known recurring messages can be locked
and unlocked again. The system distinguishes between active and passive locking/unlocking
of messages. For active locking, the message source must support the locking/unlocking of
messages with confirmation and a valid date/time stamp. In addition, a general query of the
source must return the currently locked messages. If the message source meets these

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requirements, the messages are locked/unlocked in active mode; otherwise, the messages of
WinCC are locked/unlocked in passive mode.
In the case of active locking, a lock request is sent to the message source (for example,
the AS). The message is locked in WinCC only after the source confirms that the message
as locked. The above procedure is also used to unlock messages. Only messages that
have been configured chronologically on the AS level are locked/unlocked in active mode.
In the case of passive locking, the message is locked/unlocked in the alarm server of
WinCC. The message source is not involved in this process.

Status tag
The "Came In / Went Out" status of the message type and an identifier for messages requiring
acknowledged are stored in the status tag.

See also
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)
How to Configure the Message System Using the System Wizard (Page904)
Alarm Logging (Page896)
Principles of the Message System (Page894)
WinCC Alarm Control (Page1070)

5.3

Principles of the Message System

5.3.1

Principles of the Message System

Introduction
Messages inform the operator about operating states and error states in the process. They
help identify critical situations early so that downtimes can be avoided.

Structure of a Message
Messages are displayed during runtime in the form of lines in a table. The individual messages
are composed of information that is shown in the fields of the table. These individual pieces
of information are referred to as message blocks.
The message blocks are subdivided into three groups:

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System blocks with system data, for example, date, time of day, message number, and
status
Process value blocks with process values, for example, current fill levels, temperatures or
rotational speeds
User text blocks with explanatory texts, for example, the message text containing
information on the location and cause of a fault
Whereas the contents of the system blocks are fixed, the contents of the process value blocks
and user text blocks can be modified by the user. Selections in system blocks affect only the
data display but not the logging.

Configuration
You configure messages in Alarm Logging. Several wizards are available to assist you during
configuration:
The System Wizard assists you in defining the basic settings of the message system.
The Interconnection Wizard facilitates the assignment of process tags to messages.
A selection of single messages can be processed simultaneously.
You can assign the same text to several user text blocks.
You configure the message window for displaying messages in runtime in the form of an
ActiveX control in the Graphics Designer. You can configure the appearance and operating
options of the message window here according to your requirements.
The Report Designer is used to configure the printout of messages in chronological order and
to log message archives.

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Display of Messages during Runtime

In runtime, Alarm Logging records, evaluates, and archives the events coming from the
controllers or process control system and then displays them in a message window.

See also
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)
How to Configure the Message System Using the System Wizard (Page904)
Alarm Logging (Page896)
Message System in WinCC (Page887)
WinCC Alarm Control (Page1070)

5.3.2

Alarm Logging

Introduction
You configure the messages and the message archive in Alarm Logging. You start Alarm
Logging by double-clicking in WinCC Explorer.

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Structure of alarm logging

The alarm logging interface consists of the navigation, data and table windows.

(1) Navigation window

To configure messages, you work through the folders in the tree view in their given order. The
shortcut menu menu allows you to access the individual areas and their elements.

(2) Data window

The data window contains the icons of the available objects. By double-clicking an object, you
can access the respective message system settings. You can use the shortcut menu to display
the object properties. These differ from object to object.

(3) Table window

The table window contains a table of the individual generated messages and the configured
properties. The individual fields can be accessed for editing with a double-click. You can use
the "Find" menu to search for terms and numbers in all or selected columns.

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Note
If there is an inconsistency in the configuration of a single message, the entries in the table
window are shown with a dark magenta background. An inconsistent configuration results
when the message class or message type of the single message is not available in the
message configuration data.

See also
Working with Single Messages (Page927)
Working with Message Classes (Page913)
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)
Configuring the Message System (Page903)
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging (Page898)
Message Archiving in WinCC (Page994)

5.3.3

Basic Settings of Alarm Logging

5.3.3.1

Basic Settings of Alarm Logging

Introduction
The following basic Alarm Logging settings can be adapted:
Adding and removing columns in the data window
Changing the configuration language
Integrating add-ins to the message system
Changing the text input mode

See also
Adding and Removing Columns (Page899)
How to Change the Text Input Mode (Page901)
How to Integrate Add-Ins into the Message System (Page900)
How to Change the Configuration Language (Page899)

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5.3.3.2

Adding and Removing Columns

Introduction
You can use the "Add/Remove Columns" command to hide or unhide individual columns in
the table window.

Procedure
1. In the "View" menu, select "Add/Remove Columns..."
2. In the "Add/Remove Columns" dialog, all columns to be displayed are marked with a check
mark. You can click select or clear the checkmarks for individual columns.
3. Click "OK" to close the dialog. The table window is updated, and the non-selected columns
are hidden.

See also
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging (Page898)

5.3.3.3

How to Change the Configuration Language

Introduction
You can change the configuration language by selecting the desired language from a list.
The language change affects only the texts stored in the text library. The language of the user
interface is not affected by the language change. If no texts are stored for the selected
language, the user interface language is used.

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Procedure
1. In the "View" menu, select "Language...".
2. Select the desired language from the list and click "OK" to confirm.

Note
You enter the texts in the various languages in the "Text Library" editor.

See also
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging (Page898)

5.3.3.4

How to Integrate Add-Ins into the Message System

Introduction
Add-ins are only integrated into the message system, if needed. The limit value monitoring is
available as an add-in.

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Procedure
1. In the "Tools" menu, select "Add Ins...".
2. Select the add-in in the dialog.

3. Click "OK" to close the dialog. The add-ins selected are displayed in the navigation window.

See also
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring (Page984)
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging (Page898)

5.3.3.5

How to Change the Text Input Mode

Introduction
You can specify how text changes are to take effect in the table fields of single messages.

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Text Input Options

The following text input options are available:
option

Description

Changes to the selected text apply If a text is changed, all single message text fields containing this
to all identical texts.
text are changed.
Changes apply only to the
selected text.

The change to a text in a text field applies only to that field.

Keep settings.

The selected mode is retained for future text changes; otherwise

the selected mode applies only to the current change.

Effects on Multilingual Projects

If a message text is configured in a different language after the project language has been
changed, the text input mode settings determine whether the text is stored in the text library.
"Changes to the selected text apply to all identical texts": The message text is stored in the
text library under the same ID. When the runtime language is changed, the translation of
the text is displayed.
"Change applies only to the selected text": The message text is stored in the text library
under a new ID. You can now enter the translation of the changed message text in the text
library.

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the "Messages" menu, select "Text Input Mode...". The "Text Input Mode" dialog opens.
2. Select the desired input mode.

See also
How to Specify the Message Texts of a Single Message (Page938)
Basic Settings of Alarm Logging (Page898)

5.4

Configuring the Message System

5.4.1

Configuring the Message System

Introduction
In Alarm Logging, you can specify which messages and which content are to be displayed in
the message window and archived.

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General Procedure
Configuration of the message system is broken down into the following steps:
1. Use the System Wizard to specify the basic settings for the message system.
2. Configure the message blocks in accordance with your requirements.
3. Configure the message classes and message types.
4. Configure the single messages and group messages.
5. Configure the data archiving method.
6. After completion of each configuration step, save the changes made in Alarm Logging.
Note
Make use of the wizards and configuration dialogs for all aspects of creation of new messages.

See also
Message System in WinCC (Page887)
Working with Group Messages (Page970)
Working with Single Messages (Page927)
Working with Message Classes (Page913)
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)
How to Configure the Message System Using the System Wizard (Page904)
Alarm Logging (Page896)
Message Archiving in WinCC (Page994)

5.4.2

How to Configure the Message System Using the System Wizard

Introduction
The System Wizard is used to preconfigure the message system. Here, for example, frequently
used message blocks and message types are created. You can adapt the objects created by
the wizard at a later time.
The System Wizard generates the messages in all installed languages in the text library. After
the wizard has run, you can delete any unnecessary languages from the text library. If you
install a language at a later time, you must set the configuration language for the existing
project to the new language in Alarm Logging. The messages will then also be generated in
this language.

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the File menu, select "Select Wizard" and then select "System Wizard". Click "OK".
2. After the start screen, specify the message blocks you want to create with the System
Wizard in the "Select Message Blocks" dialog..
3. In the "Preset Classes" dialog, specify the message classes along with their respective
acknowledgement theory and associated message types.
4. The "Final" dialog contains a summary of the message blocks and message classes to be
created by the wizard. Click "Finish".
Note
Any settings that are modified after execution of the System Wizard will be lost when the
wizard is run again.

See also
Configuring the Message System (Page903)

5.4.3

Working with Message Blocks

5.4.3.1

Working with Message Blocks

Introduction
The content of a message consists of message blocks. Each message block corresponds to
one column in the tabular display of the message window.
There are three groups of message blocks:
System blocks with system data, for example, date, time, message number and status. The
description of the system blocks provides information on the individual system blocks.
User text blocks with explanatory texts, for example, message text with information on the
cause of a fault or the fault location.
Process value blocks are used to link the messages to process values, for example, current
fill levels, temperatures or speeds. In each message system, up to 10 individually
configurable process value blocks are available for each single message.

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Configuring Message Blocks

You use Alarm Logging to
Add message blocks from an existing selection list
Remove available message blocks
Modify the properties of the available message blocks

General Properties of Message Blocks

A message requiring acknowledgement or single message blocks can be displayed flashing
in runtime. To do this, the following conditions must be satisfied:
The "Flashing On" property must be activated in the message class to which the message
is assigned. You configure this property in the "Configure Message Class" dialog on the
"Acknowledgement" tab.
"Flashing On" must also be enabled in the properties of the message block to be displayed
as flashing. You configure this property in the "Properties" dialog of the message block. If
several message blocks or all message blocks in a message are to be displayed flashing,
this property must be enabled in each message block of this message.

"Status" System Block

The status texts of the messages are displayed in the "Status" system block. The length of this
system block must be configured so that the status texts can be displayed in full.

Length Restrictions for User Text Blocks and Process Value Blocks
User text blocks can contain a maximum of 255 characters.
The display of process value blocks is restricted during runtime to the following:
Maximum of 32 characters for chronological reporting
Maximum of 255 characters for the bit message procedure

See also
Description of System Blocks (Page907)
How to Remove Message Blocks (Page912)
How to Change the Properties of Message Blocks (Page910)
How to Add Message Blocks (Page909)

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5.4.3.2

Description of System Blocks

Introduction
System blocks allow for the specification of predefined information that is not freely utilizable,
such as date, time and duration.
The value of the message block (for example, the time of day) is displayed in the message
line. The description of the system blocks provides information on the individual system blocks.

Overview
System block

Description

Standard
length

AS/CPU-Number

Number of the CPU and AS in which the message is

triggered. During runtime, the value of this system block
is not taken from the AS but rather is taken from the
configured data of the single message. The value has no
function in the communication with the AS.

Archiving

Indicates whether the message will be archived.

Type

One of 16 message types per message class. The text is

user-defined.

User Name

Indicates the name of the user (login name):

10

The user name is shown the short-term archive list

and the long-term archive list if the user has entered
a comment in the long-term archive list and has
changed windows.
After acknowledgement of a message, the user who
was logged on to WinCC at time of acknowledgement
is identified in the operator input message in the shortterm archive list and the long-term archive list. The
operator input message must be activated in WinCC
Alarm Control on the "Message Lists" tab.
Date

Date for the "incoming", "outgoing" and "acknowledged"

states of a message.

Duration

Period of time between the "incoming" and "outgoing"

states and the acknowledgement of a message. There is
only one column for duration:

The column remains blank for messages with "came

in" status.
For messages with "gone out" status , the time that
elapses between "came in" and "went out" is
displayed.
When the message is acknowledged, the time
between "came in" and "acknowledged" is displayed.
Limit Violation

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occurs.
This is not supported during runtime.

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System block

Description

Standard
length

Info Text

Information texts for the message, limited to a maximum

of 255 characters, for example, "Message might be
caused by...". The system block indicates whether an info
text is available for this message. Info texts cannot be
edited during runtime.

Class

One of 16 message classes. The text is user-defined.

Comment

The "Comment" system block indicates whether there is 1

a comment for this message. A comment is an entry made
by the user in the event of a message occurrence, for
example "This message occurred today because...".

Loop In Alarm

This field is marked with an "X" when the "Loop In Alarm"

function is activated.

Number

Message number

Priority

Defines the priority of a message. You can sort the list of

messages by priority. By sorting according to priority, you
can ensure that, in single-line message view the most
important message (that is, the message with highest
priority) is shown. In this case, a message with a lower
priority is not displayed, even if it occurred later.

Value range: 0 - 16
In WinCC, the value corresponding to the highest priority
is not specified. When using the Basic Process Control
or PCS7, reserve priority "16" for the highest priority
messages of the system.

Logging

Indicates whether the message will be logged (message

number-specific). Starting from WinCC V6, the logging is
incorporated into every message by default. Logging
cannot be changed or removed.

Acknowledgement Status

Indicates whether a message has been acknowledged.

The status texts displayed in this system block are
configured in the message class and depend on the
window type of the message window.

Computer Name

Indicates the name of the computer:

10

The name of the computer used by the operator is

shown in the short-term archive list and the long-term
archive list, provided that the user has entered a
comment in the long-term archive list and has
changed windows.
After acknowledgement of a message, the computer
on which this has message was acknowledged is
shown in the operator input message in the short-term
and long-term archive lists. The operator input
message must be activated in WinCC Alarm Control
on the "Message Lists" tab.

908

Daylight Saving Time/

Standard Time

An "X" in this system block indicates whether daylight

saving time applies.

Time of day

Time of day for "incoming", "outgoing" and

"acknowledged".
Accuracy of the WinCC time stamp: 1 s.
Display accuracy: 10 ms.

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System block

Description

Standard
length

Tag

The "Tag" system block is not yet supported at this time.

Status

Message status, for example, "Came In" or "Went

Out".
The status texts displayed in this system block are
configured in the message class and depend on the
window type of the message window.

Note
If the "ISO 8601-Swap Format to All Components" setting is activated in the "Computer
Properties" dialog, the formats configured for system blocks "Date" and "Time" are affected.

See also
How to Add Message Blocks (Page909)
How to Configure the Status Texts of a Message Class (Page925)

5.4.3.3

How to Add Message Blocks

Introduction
You can add message blocks that are necessary for the archiving and display of messages to
the message system.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "Message Blocks" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select "Message Blocks..." in the shortcut menu. The "Configure Message Blocks" dialog
opens.
3. Select the message block that you want to add, for example, a system block. Click "Add".

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4. Select the required message blocks from the list of available system blocks. Click
to add these message blocks to the list of selected system blocks.

5. If you want to add all available system blocks, click

selection.

. Click "OK" to confirm your

6. Proceed in the same way to add user text blocks and process value blocks.

Alternative Procedure
1. Select the "Message Blocks" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select the desired message block, for example, system blocks, in the data window, and
select "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu.
3. Select the required message blocks in the list of available system blocks. Click
to
add these message blocks to the list of selected system blocks. If you want to add all
available system blocks, click
. Click "OK" to confirm your selection.
4. Proceed in the same way to add user text blocks and process value blocks.

See also
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)

5.4.3.4

How to Change the Properties of Message Blocks

Introduction
You can display and modify the properties of a message block in the Properties dialog for the
message block.

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Requirement
You have added the message blocks to the message system.

Procedure
1. Select the "Message Blocks" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select "Message Blocks..." in the shortcut menu. The "Configure Message Blocks" dialog
opens.
3. In the tree view, select the message block you want to modify, for example, the "Time of
day" system block.

4. Click the "Properties" button. The Properties dialog for the selected message block opens.
5. Edit the properties of the message block, for example, the name, in the dialog. Click "OK."

Alternative Procedure
1. Select the "System Blocks" folder in the navigation window.
2. In the data window, select the desired message block, for example, time of day. Select
"Properties" in the shortcut menu, or double-click the message block. The Properties dialog
for the selected message block opens.
3. Edit the properties of the message block, for example, the name, in the dialog. Click "OK."
4. Proceed in the same way to change the properties of the user text blocks and process value
blocks.

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See also
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)

5.4.3.5

How to Remove Message Blocks

Introduction
You have the option of removing message blocks that are no longer required for archiving and
displaying messages from the message system.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "Message Blocks" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select "Message Blocks..." in the shortcut menu. The "Configure Message Blocks" dialog
opens.
3. In the tree view, select the message block you want to remove, for example, the "Time of
day" system block.

4. Click "Remove". Clicking "OK" removes the "Time of day" message block from the message
system. Proceed in the same way to remove other message blocks.

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Alternative Procedure
1. Select the "Message Blocks" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select the message block to be removed, for example, system blocks, in the data window
and then select "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu.
3. Select the message blocks you want to remove in the list of selected system blocks.
to move these message blocks to the list of available system blocks. If you
Click
want to remove all selected system blocks, click

. Click "OK" to confirm your selection.

4. Proceed in the same way to remove user text blocks or process value blocks.

See also
Working with Message Blocks (Page905)

5.4.4

Working with Message Classes

5.4.4.1

Working with Message Classes

Introduction
When configuring the message system, you must assign a message class to each message.
This means you do not have to make a lot of individual basic settings; instead, you can make
settings that apply globally for the entire message class.

Overview
WinCC provides 16 message classes and two preset system message classes. The following
standard message classes are available:
Fault
System, requires acknowledgement
System, without acknowledgement
You configure the following basic settings for message classes:
Assigned message types
Acknowledgement theory and associated status texts
Output of acoustical/optical signals

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Configuring Message Classes

Message classes are configured using the "Message Classes" folder in the navigation window
in Alarm Logging. You can add, remove or configure message classes.

See also
System Message Classes (Page914)
How to Configure the Acknowledgement of a Message Class (Page922)
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)
How to Delete Message Classes (Page917)
How to Add Message Classes (Page915)
How to Add Message Types for the Message Class (Page918)

5.4.4.2

System Message Classes

Introduction
System messages are messages that are generated internally by the system, such as
messages from operator inputs or system failures.
WinCC provides special system classes for the processing of system messages. You cannot
add new system classes. The acknowledgement theory is preset.

System Message Class Requiring Acknowledgement

An incoming message that is assigned to the system message class that requires
acknowledgement must be acknowledged in order to remove it from the queue. The message
disappears immediately following an acknowledgement.
You configure the parameter settings in the "Configure Message Classes" dialog for the system
message class.
The following message types are available:
Process control messages. Messages are generated by the process control system, for
example, during system startup.
System messages. Messages are generated by the system, for example, when a system
component fails.

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Note
The "Went Out" status is not registered or stored in the archive.

System Message Class Without Acknowledgement

A message that is assigned to the system message class not requiring acknowledgement does
not have to be acknowledged.
You configure the parameter settings in the "Configure Message Classes" dialog for the system
message class.
The following message types are available:
Process control messages. Messages are generated by the process control system, for
example, during system startup.
Operator input messages. Messages are generated by the operator input, for example,
through operation of a component.
Note
Be aware that an erroneous operator input will also be reported in an operator input message.

See also
How To Insert WinCC System Messages (Page960)
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)

5.4.4.3

How to Add Message Classes

Introduction
You add additional message classes to the message system in order to combine messages
having the same acknowledgement theory into additional message classes.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "Message Classes" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu. The "Add Message Class..." dialog opens.

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3. Select the required message classes in the list of available message classes. Click
to add these message classes to the list of selected message classes.

4. If you want to add all available message classes, click

selection.

. Click "OK" to confirm your

See also
Working with Message Classes (Page913)

5.4.4.4

How to Configure Message Classes

Introduction
You configure the following basic settings for message classes:
Name of message class
Assigned message types
Acknowledgement theory and associated status texts
Output of acoustical/optical signals

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Requirement
You have added the message classes to the message system.

Procedure
1. Select the "Message Classes" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select the message class to be configured in the data window. Select "Properties" in the
shortcut menu, or double-click the message class. The Properties dialog for the selected
message class opens.
3. In the "Configure Message Classes..." dialog, click the tab on which you want to display
and edit the properties of the message class.
4. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

See also
How to Configure the Status Texts of a Message Class (Page925)
How to Configure the Acknowledgement of a Message Class (Page922)
How to Remove Message Types (Page921)
How to Change the Properties of Message Types (Page920)
Working with Message Classes (Page913)
How to Add Message Types for the Message Class (Page918)

5.4.4.5

How to Delete Message Classes

Introduction
You remove a message class from the message system when you no longer need it for the
configured messages.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "Message Classes" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select "Add/Remove" in the shortcut menu. The "Add Message Class..." dialog opens.

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3. Select the message classes you want to remove in the list of selected message classes.
Click
to move these message classes to the list of available message classes.

4. If you want to remove all selected message classes, click

selection.

. Click "OK" to confirm your

Note
You cannot remove the "System, requires acknowledgement" and "System, without
acknowledgement" message classes.

See also
Working with Message Classes (Page913)

5.4.4.6

How to Add Message Types for the Message Class

Introduction
You configure message types within a message class that differ with respect to the color
assignment for the message statuses.

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Requirement
You have added the message class to the message system.

Procedure
1. Select the message class to be configured in the navigation window.
2. Select "Add/Remove Message Types..." in the shortcut menu. The "Add Message Type..."
dialog opens.
3. Select the required message types in the list of available message types. Click
add these message types to the list of selected message types.

If you want to add all available message types, click

to

. Click "OK" to confirm your selection.

Alternative Procedure
1. Select the "Message Class" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select the desired message class in the data window. Select "Properties" in the shortcut
menu. The "Configure Message Classes..." dialog opens.
3. Click "Add".
The "Add Message Type..." dialog opens.
4. Select the required message types in the list of available message types. Click
to
add these message types to the list of selected message types. If you want to add all
available message types, click
. Click "OK" to confirm your selection.

See also
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)
How to Change the Properties of Message Types (Page920)

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5.4.4.7

How to Change the Properties of Message Types

Introduction
You configure the properties of a message type in the Properties dialog for the message type.
You have the option of changing the name of the message type and the display color of the
messages for the statuses "Came In", "Went Out" and "Acknowledged".

Requirement
You have added the message type to the message class.

Procedure
1. Select the message class whose message type you want to change in the navigation
window.
2. Select the desired message type in the data window.
3. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Type" dialog opens.

4. Change the properties of the message type, for example, the text color of the "Came In"
status, in the dialog. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

Alternative Procedure
1. Select the message class whose message type you want to change in the navigation
window.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Configure Message Classes" dialog iopens.

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3. Select the desired message type in the dialog, and click "Properties". The "Type" dialog
opens.
4. Change the properties of the message type, for example, the text color of the "Came In"
status, in the dialog. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

See also
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)

5.4.4.8

How to Remove Message Types

Introduction
You remove a message type from the message class if it is no longer required for the configured
message class.
Note
You cannot remove the "Process Control System", "System Messages", and "Operator Input
Messages" message types.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the message class from which you want to remove a message type in the navigation
window.
2. Select "Add/Remove Message Types..." in the shortcut menu. The "Add Message Type..."
dialog opens.

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3. Select the message types you want to remove in the list of selected message types. Click
to move these message types to the list of available message types.

4. If you want to remove all selected message types, click

selection.

. Click "OK" to confirm your

Alternative Procedure
1. Select the "Message Class" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select the desired message class in the data window. Select "Properties" in the shortcut
menu. The "Configure Message Classes..." dialog opens.
3. Select the message type you want to remove. Click "Remove".
The message type is removed from the message class. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

See also
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)

5.4.4.9

How to Configure the Acknowledgement of a Message Class

Introduction
For the acknowledgement of a message, you specify how the message is to be displayed and
processed during runtime from "Incoming" status to "Outgoing" status.

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Requirement
You have opened the "Configure Message Classes" dialog for the message class in Alarm
Logging.

Basic procedure
On the "Acknowledgement" tab, you configure the acknowledgement theory of a message of
the message class and the acknowledgement of a message using a central signaling device.
You can choose between eight different statuses for the acknowledgement of a message:
Single message without acknowledgement
Single message with incoming acknowledgement
Single message with dual-mode acknowledgement
Initial-value message with single-mode acknowledgement
New-value message with single-mode acknowledgement
New-value message with dual-mode acknowledgement
Message without "Went Out" status and with acknowledgement
Message without "Went Out" status and without acknowledgement

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Acknowledgement Theory Options

option

Description

Acknowledgeme
nt came in

Select the check box for a single message with incoming acknowledgement.
Incoming messages of this message class must be acknowledged. The message
remains pending until it is acknowledged.

Acknowledgeme
nt went out

Select the check box for a single message with dual-mode acknowledgement.
Outgoing messages of this message class must be acknowledged.

Flashing On

Select the check box for a new-value message with single-mode or dual-mode
acknowledgement. The messages of this message class are displayed flashing in
the message window. In order for a message block of a message to flash in runtime,
flashing must be enabled in the properties of the respective message block.

Only Initial Value

Select the check box for an initial-value message with single-mode

acknowledgement. Only the first message in this message class is displayed
flashing in the message window, The "Flashing On" check box must have been
selected beforehand.

Message
Without Status
"Went Out"

Select the check box for a message without "Went Out" status and with or without
acknowledgement. If this option is selected, the messages doe not have "Went Out"
status. If the message only recognizes the "Came In" status, it is not entered in the
message window and is only archived.

Comments with
Explicit User

If you select the check box, the comments in the message window are assigned to
the logged-on user. The user is entered in the "User Name" system block. If no
comment has yet been entered, any user can enter the first comment. After the first
comment has been entered, all other users have only read access to this comment.

Comment of
Incoming
Message Always
in Message List

If you select the check box, the comment of the incoming message is always
displayed in the user text blocks with the dynamic components "@100%s@",
"@101%s@", "@102%s@" und "@103%s@". The display then depends on the
status of the message in the message list.

If certain options have been selected, other options may no longer be available for selection.
If you want to select one of these options, you must undo the previous selection.
Note
If a message type does not need to be acknowledged and is not assigned a "Went Out" status,
it is not displayed in the message window. The message is only archived. If such a message
is used within a group message, the occurrence of the message does not trigger the group
message.

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Acknowledgement of a Central Signaling Device

option

Description

Separate
Central signaling devices that are triggered when a message comes in are
acknowledgemen acknowledged by the user by means of a separate acknowledgement button in the
t button
toolbar or by means of a keyboard entry. The acknowledgement button must be
configured in the message window. The separate acknowledgement button is
always available, even if the "By Means Of Single Ack." option has been selected.
By Means of
Central signaling devices that are triggered when a message comes in are
Single
acknowledged together with the triggering message.
Acknowledgemen
t
Variable

The central signaling device is controlled by a defined tag.

Opens the "Select Tag" dialog so that a tag can be selected as an
acknowledgement tag.

See also
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)

5.4.4.10

How to Configure the Status Texts of a Message Class

Introduction
Message status texts of a message are displayed in the message line in the "Status" and the
"Acknowledgement Status" system blocks.

Requirement
You have opened the "Configure Message Classes" dialog for the message class in Alarm
Logging.

Display in the Message Window

The display of customizable status texts depends on the type of the selected Message Window:
Window Type

System Block

Display of the Status Texts from the Field

Message list

State

"Came In", or "Came In and Went Out"

Message list

Acknowledgeme "Acknowledged"
nt Status

Archive List

State

Archive List

Acknowledgeme No text is displayed.

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Window Type

System Block

Display of the Status Texts from the Field

Lock list

State

No text can be configured. Locked messages are labeled with

"Lock"; the lock cannot be configured.

Lock list

Acknowledgeme No text can be configured. No text is displayed.

nt Status

Note
The system generates the display of status texts "Ackn System" for system-acknowledged
messages and "Ackn Reset" for acknowledged messages using emergency
acknowledgement.

Configuration of Status Texts

You configure the texts for the individual message statuses on the "Status Texts" tab.

926

option

Description

Came In

Text for "incoming" messages when there is a change to the signaling

operating state

Went Out

Text for "outgoing" messages when there is a change from the signaling
operating state

Acknowledged

Text for acknowledged messages

Came In and Went Out

Text for message that has come in and gone out

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Note
Status texts are displayed in the message line only up to their configured length in the system
block properties. Therefore, a system block should be long enough for the longest status text
to be displayed.

See also
How to Configure Message Classes (Page916)

5.4.5

Working with Single Messages

5.4.5.1

Working with Single Messages

Introduction
With single messages, a message is assigned to every event. Several single messages can
be compiled to form a group message. A single message is made up of the defined message
blocks.

Configuring Single Messages

You can process single messages in the table window of Alarm Logging:
Create and copy single messages
Delete single message
Define and modify parameters of a single message

See also
How to Delete a Single Message (Page931)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a Single Message (Page931)

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5.4.5.2

Parameters of a Single Message

Introduction
Make the following settings on the "Parameters" tab of the "Single Message" dialog:
Parameters of the single message, e.g. association with a message class and message
type
Parameters for the connections to different tags, such as the message tag

Opening the "Single message" dialog

You open the properties dialog for a single message by selecting "Properties" in the shortcut
menu of the single message selected.

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Click

to open the dialog for tag selection.

Click

to reset the tag assignment and the bit used in it.

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Parameters of single messages

You can set the following parameters for a single message:
Parameters

Description

Number

Number of the single message. You can only set the number in the table window.

Class

Message class of the single message.

Type

Message type of the single message.

Group

You can select a configured group message in the selection list when assigning the single
message to a user-defined group message.

Hide mask

Defines the condition for hiding the message based on a hexadecimal value. If the value of
the hide tag number corresponds to a system status in runtime, the message is automatically
hidden in the message list and in the short-term or long-term archive list. The single message
must be assigned to a user-defined group message and a hide tag must have been configured
for the group message.

Priority

Defines the message priority. Messages can be selected and sorted based on their priority.
The range of values is "0" to "16".
The value which is equivalent to the highest priority is not specified in WinCC. The value 16
corresponds to the highest priority in the PCS7 environment.

requires single
acknowledgment

The message must be acknowledged separately. It cannot be acknowledged using a group

acknowledgement button.

controls the central signaling Activation of a message triggers central signaling device.
device
will be archived

The message is saved to the archive.

Is created on a negative
edge

You can specify whether to trigger generation of a message for discrete alarms at the positive
or at the negative signal edge . Message generation is always triggered at the positive signal
edge for all other message procedures.
The message tag for messages triggered at the negative edge must be assigned start value
"1".

triggers an action

The message triggers the default GMsgFunction which you can edit using the "Global Script"
editor. The function is available at "Standard Functions/Alarm" in the function browser of
Global Script.

contains expanded
associated values

The option "contains expanded associated values" refers to the evaluation of message events
from message blocks by means of raw data tags. If the option is activated, the process values
are evaluated according to the data type of associated values defined in the dynamic text
parts in Alarm Logging and are archived or displayed in the single message. The 12 bytes of
the associated values can contain the following data types: Byte(Y), WORD(W), DWORD(X),
Integer(I), Integer(D), BOOL(B), CHAR(C) and REAL(R). E.g. @1Y%d@, @2W%d@, @3W
%d@, @3X%d@, @5W%d@, @6Y%d@. "@2W%d@" references the second associated
value as "WORD", for example.

AS Number

Number of the AS (sublevel controller - PLC) which triggers the message.

This field is only displayed if the "AS/CPU-Number" block is available in the system message
blocks.
The value configured in this field is displayed in the message block of the single message at
runtime and has no function for communication with the AS.

CPU number

Number of the CPU which triggers the message.

This field is only displayed if the "AS/CPU-number" block is available in the system message
blocks.
The value configured in this field is displayed in the message block of the single message at
runtime and has no function for communication with the AS or CPU.

Message tag

The message tag contains the bit which is used to trigger the currently selected message.

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Parameters

Description

Message bit

Number of the message tag bit which is used to trigger the currently selected message.

Acknowledgment tag

Select this field to specify the acknowledgment tag.

Acknowledgment bit

Number of the acknowledgment tag bit that is used to acknowledge the message.

Status tag

Select this field to specify the tag to which single message states are saved ("activated /
deactivated" and acknowledgment state).

Status bit

Number of the status tag bit which indicates the message status. The bit for mandatory
acknowledgment is determined automatically.

Format DLL

If the message tag is a raw data tag, you must select the corresponding compiler program in
this field.

DLL parameters

Enter the interface-specific DLL message parameters (Format DLL) in this field. This setting
is only required if this message belongs to a separate format DLL which is interconnected by
means of ODK.

Note
Do not combine any tag bits of the message with other tags of the message, such as message
tag and status tag.

Parameter input for single messages in the table window

You have several options of entering parameters in the fields of the table window. Double-click
has the following functions:
Opening dialogs for single messages, e.g. to select a tag.
Selecting parameters be means of selection field.
Direct input of parameters.

See also
How to Link a Picture to a Single Message (Page943)
How to Specify the Message Texts of a Single Message (Page938)
How to Connect Tags and Messages Using the Interconnection Wizard (Page937)
How to Specify the Tag of a Single Message (Page936)
Status Tag of a Single Message (Page933)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Single Message (Page935)
Message Tag of a Single Message (Page932)
Working with Single Messages (Page927)
How to Configure the Hiding of Messages (Page945)
Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message (Page975)

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5.4.5.3

How to Create a Single Message

Introduction
You create a single message in the table window of Alarm Logging by inserting a new line or
copy and paste and existing single message.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Creating a New Single Message

1. In the table window, select "Add New Line" in the shortcut menu.
2. A line will be added at the bottom of the table. This line contains the data of the new
message. If necessary, change the properties of the new single message.

Copying and Pasting a Single Message

1. In the table window, select a field of the single message that you want to copy.
2. Select "Copy line" in the shortcut menu.
3. Select "Append copied line" in the shortcut menu.
4. A line will be added at the bottom of the table. This line contains the data of the copied
message. If necessary, change the properties of the copied single message.

See also
How to Delete a Single Message (Page931)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
Working with Single Messages (Page927)

5.4.5.4

How to Delete a Single Message

Introduction
You can delete a single message in the table window of Alarm Logging.

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the table window, select a field of the single message that you want to delete.
2. Select "Delete line" in the shortcut menu.
3. The single message is deleted and removed from the table.

See also
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a Single Message (Page931)
Working with Single Messages (Page927)

5.4.5.5

Tags of a Single Message

Message Tag of a Single Message

Introduction
The message is triggered by means of the message tag. The structure of message tags is not
specified.
You have the following options of configuring message tags:
Configuring separate message tags for single messages.
Triggering several single messages using one message tag. The message bit is used to
identify the single messages. A message tag bit can only be used for a single message.

Procedure for Configuration

Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the selected single message. You specify the
message tag on the "Parameters" tab of the "Single Message" dialog.
Click

to open the dialog for selection of the tag to be used as the message tag.

Click

to reset the message tag assignment and the message bit.

Note
Do not combine any tag bits of the message with other tags of the message, such as a status
tag.

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See also
How to Connect Tags and Messages Using the Interconnection Wizard (Page937)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
Status Tag of a Single Message (Page933)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Single Message (Page935)

Status Tag of a Single Message

Introduction
There are two determining message statuses for a single message:
The "Came In / Went Out" status indicates whether the message is incoming or outgoing.
The acknowledgement status indicates whether the message requires acknowledgement
and has not yet been acknowledged.
Both statuses of the single message are stored in a status tag. Depending on the data type of
the tag, up to 16 single messages can be recorded in a status tag. Each single message
occupies 2 bits in the status tag.

"Acknowledgment bit"
The acknowledgement bit in the status tag changes to "1" as soon as a single message
requiring acknowledgement has come in and has not yet been acknowledged. The
acknowledgement bit changes to "0" as soon as a single message requiring acknowledgement
has been acknowledged.

Position of the bits in "activated/deactivated" state and in acknowledgment state

The position of the bit for "activated/deactivated" states in the status tag is identified by the
status bit. The position of the "acknowledgment bit" depends on the data type of the status
tag.
The distance to the bit with the "Came In / Went Out" status is:
4 bits for the "8 bit unsigned" tag.
8 bits for the "16 bit unsigned" tag.
16 bits for the "32 bit unsigned" tag.

Status tag of data type "32 Bit Unsigned"

If the status tag is of data type "32 bit unsigned" and the status bit = 9,
bit 9 of the status tag indicates the "activated/deactivated" state of the single message.
bit 25 of the status tag indicates whether this single message requires acknowledgment.
Bits "0-15" correspond accordingly to bits "16-31" of a "32-bit" status tag.

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Status tag of data type "16 Bit Unsigned"

If the status tag is of data type "16 bit unsigned" and the status bit = 3,
bit 3 of the status tag indicates the "activated/deactivated" state of the single message.
bit 11 of the status tag indicates whether this single message requires acknowledgment.
Bits "0-7" correspond accordingly to bits "8-15" of a "16-bit" status tag.

Status tag of data type "8 Bit Unsigned"

If the status tag is of data type "8 bit unsigned" and the status bit = 3,
bit 3 of the status tag indicates the "activated/deactivated" state of the single message.
bit 7 of the status tag indicates whether this single message requires acknowledgment.
Bits "0-3" correspond accordingly to bits "4-7" in an "8-bit" status tag.

Configuring the status tags

Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the selected single message. Specify the status
tag on the "Parameters" tab of the "Single Message" dialog.
Click

to open the dialog for selecting the status tag.

Click

to reset the status tag assignment and the status bit.

Note
Do not combine any tag bits of the status with other tags of the message, such as an
acknowledgment tag.

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See also
How to Connect Tags and Messages Using the Interconnection Wizard (Page937)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
Message Tag of a Single Message (Page932)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Single Message (Page935)

Acknowledgement Tag of a Single Message

Introduction
One bit of the acknowledgment tag in single messages is used to trigger the acknowledgment
and to display the status. The following rules apply:
The single message was acknowledged if the corresponding acknowledgment bit has the
value "1".
The single message has not yet been acknowledged if the corresponding acknowledgment
bit has the value "0".
This acknowledgment bit is set when a single message is acknowledged at runtime.
The structure of the acknowledgment tag is not specified. You have the following options of
configuring message tags:
Configure a separate acknowledgment tag for each single message.
Group several single messages in a single acknowledgment tag. The acknowledgment bit
is used to distinguish between the single messages.
Note
For the acknowledgment of the single message using the WinCC Alarm Control, the
acknowledgment bit assigned to the single message is set. The acknowledgment bit is
reset by user actions, for example, by clicking a button in the WinCC process window or
by means of a program in the AS.

Configuring acknowledgment tags

Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the selected single message. Specify the
acknowledgment tag on the "Parameters" tab of the "Single Message" dialog.
Click

to open the dialog for selection of the tag you want to use as an acknowledgment tag.

Click

to reset the acknowledgment tag assignment and the acknowledgment bit.

Note
Do not combine any bits of the acknowledgment tag with other tags of the message, such as
a status tag.

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See also
How to Connect Tags and Messages Using the Interconnection Wizard (Page937)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
Status Tag of a Single Message (Page933)
Message Tag of a Single Message (Page932)

How to Specify the Tag of a Single Message

Introduction
The process variables are represented by tags. You must connect the process value blocks
configured for the single message to the associated WinCC tags.

Requirement
You have already created single messages.
At least one process value block has been added to the message system.

Procedure
1. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the selected single message. The "Single
Message" dialog opens.
2. Select the "Tag / Action" tab.

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3. Click
for the configured process value block. Select the process tag that you want to
connect the process value block to in the displayed tag selection dialog. Click "OK."
4. Click

to reset the process tag assignment.

See also
How to Link a Picture to a Single Message (Page943)
How to Specify the Message Texts of a Single Message (Page938)
How to Add Message Blocks (Page909)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a Single Message (Page931)

How to Connect Tags and Messages Using the Interconnection Wizard

Introduction
The Interconnection Wizard assists you in connecting the message tags and
acknowledgement tags of messages to the tags of WinCC Explorer. The tag connections
generated by the wizard can be changed later on in the table window.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the File menu, select "Select Wizard" and then select "Interconnection Wizard". Click
"OK". Alternatively, you can start the Interconnection Wizard in the "Messages" menu.
2. Click the
button to select a message tag in the "Interconnect Tag: Message Tag" dialog.
Enter the numbers of the messages to which you want to interconnect the selected
message tag.
3. Click the
button to select an acknowledgement tag in the "Interconnect Tag:
Acknowledgement Tag" dialog. Enter the numbers of the messages to which you want to
interconnect the selected acknowledgement tag.
4. Click "Apply" to close the wizard. The selected tags are interconnected with the
corresponding messages.

See also
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)

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5.4.5.6

How to Specify the Message Texts of a Single Message

Introduction
In message texts for a message, you can specify, for example, information on the cause of a
fault or the location of the fault.

Settings for Configuring Message Texts

You specify the configurable texts of the single message on the "Text" tab of the "Single
Message" dialog.
You can make the following settings on the "Text" tab:
option

Description

Info text

Here, you enter an information text containing up to 255 characters. Info texts
cannot be changed during runtime.

Blocks 1 to 10

Here, you enter a text for each block containing up to 255 characters.
Blocks 1 to 10 represent the respective user text blocks.
In the user text block, you can display the field contents of the comment dialog of
the message using the following formatting instructions:
@100%s@ = Computer Name (max. 16 characters)

@101%s@ = Application name (max. 32 characters)

@102%s@ = User name (max. 16 characters)

@103%s@ = Comment (max. 255 characters) of the message in the long-term
archive list. For this, a comment must have been entered in the message.
The format instructions should not contain any alphabets in upper case.
Click the button to display the "Insert Process Value" dialog. Here, you insert a
process value in the user text block.
The inserted process value is identified in the user by the format instruction
@.....@.

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Requirement
You have already created single messages.

Procedure
1. Select the desired single message in the table window.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Single Message" dialog opens.

3. Make the desired settings on the "Text" tab.

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Alternative Procedure
1. In the table window, double-click the field in the selected single message whose text you
want to insert or change. Edit the user text blocks directly in the table field. In the case of
"Info text", the "Info Text" dialog opens.
2. In the "Info Text" dialog, enter an additional information text containing up to 255 characters
for a single message. An information text can be used, for example, to describe why a
message can arrive.
You can use the shortcut menu and the standard editing functions to copy or paste text in
the dialog. Info texts cannot be changed during runtime.

See also
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a Single Message (Page931)

5.4.5.7

How to Insert Process Values in User Text Blocks

Introduction
You can insert the value of a process variable in a user text block. However, the maximum
length of a user text block (i.e., 255 characters) must not be exceeded.

Settings for Configuring Process Values

You assign the format in the user text block to the process value in the "Insert Process Value"
dialog.
The following settings can be made:

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Icon

Description

User text block

Indicates the user text block in which a process value is to be inserted.

Length

Indicates the defined text length of the user text block.

Text

Mirrors the appearance of the user text.

Process value
block

Here, you select the process variable whose value you want to insert.

Type

Defines the format type of the process value to be inserted.

The following options are available:
- Text
- Fixed-point number (decimal, octal, hexadecimal)
- Floating-point number

Position

Determines the position of the format statement in the text. Specifying "Position:
10" causes the process value to be inserted after the tenth character in the user
text.

Number of digits

Defines the number of digits reserved in the user text for the process value.

Accuracy

Defines who many digits of the process value are to be inserted in the user text.

Pad with 0

If this function is activated, floating-point numbers are filled in until the number of
digits specified in the "Precision" text field is reached.

Align Left

If the number of digits in the process value to be inserted is less than the number
of digits reserved, this function is used to specify whether the process value is
aligned right or left when it is inserted in the user text.

Format statement

Indicates the specified format statement.

Example:

Displays examples of how the specifications regarding the number of digits,

precision, left alignment, and padding affect the different types of process values.

Requirement
You have already created single messages.
You have added at least one process value block to the message system.

Procedure
1. Select the desired single message in the table window.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Single Message" dialog opens.

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3. Click

for a user text block on the "Texts" tab. The "Insert Process Value" dialog opens.

4. Specify the desired settings.

See also
How to Add Message Blocks (Page909)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a Single Message (Page931)

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5.4.5.8

How to Link a Picture to a Single Message

Introduction
You can display a plant graphic for a single message during runtime that represents the part
of the process where the message occurred. To do this, assign the name of the plant graphic
to a picture function that is triggered in the message window as follows:
By double-clicking a message. The configuration is performed on the "Parameters" tab in
the WinCC Alarm Control.
By clicking the "Loop in Alarm" button on the toolbar.
Note
The WinCC standard function "OpenPicture" is used for the picture function. You can
specify any function and specify another file as the transfer parameter.
If you wish to use a different function, you should note the following:
Use a function that accepts a transfer parameter of the type char*, for example: void
MyFunction(char* NameOwnData).
Use only functions whose return parameter corresponds to the "unsigned char", "short
int", "long int", "float", "double", "bool", or "void" types

Requirement
You have already created single messages.
You have configured a plant graphic in the Graphics Designer.

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Procedure
1. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the selected single message. The "Single
Message" dialog opens.
2. Select the "Tag/Action" tab.

3. Enter the name of the picture in the "Picture Name/Call Parameter" text field or click
Select the picture in the project directory. Click

to reset the picture name assignment.

4. If you are using a different picture function, click

in the "Function Name" field. Select
your function in the function browser that appears.
5. Click on OK to confirm.

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Alternative Procedure
1. Double-click the "Loop in Alarm" field in the selected single message in the table window.
The "Loop in Alarm" dialog opens.

2. Enter the name of the picture in the "Picture Name/Call Parameter" text field or click
Select the desired picture in the directory of your project. Click
assignment. Click "OK."

to reset the picture name

3. If you are using a different picture function, click

in the "Function Name" field. Select
your function in the function browser that appears.
4. Click on OK to confirm.

See also
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a Single Message (Page931)

5.4.5.9

How to Configure the Hiding of Messages

Introduction
Hiding messages reduces the information load for the system user. You as user can
concentrate better on the messages only if selected messages are shown.

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Properties of Hidden Messages

Hidden messages are:
In the message list, short-term archive list and long-term archive list, you can select whether
the hidden messages are to be displayed. The display depends on the activated option in
the "Display Options" dialog.
They are included in the list of messages to be hidden and displayed there.
They are archived.
They do not trigger the alarm in Basic Process Control.
The central messaging tag is not set in WinCC.
You can manually or automatically unhide messages that are hidden.
In manual hide, they are displayed again after a certain defined period.
Manual hiding forces you to acknowledge messages that need acknowledgement and
triggers an operator input message.
Automatic hiding does not force you to acknowledge and therefore it also does not trigger
an operator input message.
In the period when messages requiring confirmation are hidden, the system acknowledges
the outgoing messages. If a message does not have the "gone" status, the system
acknowledges it immediately.

Hide process
You can hide messages in two ways:
Automatic hide: Messages are hidden and shown again later depending on a certain system
status of the hide tag. You need to assign a hide tag to a group message. You add the
single messages that you want to hide during runtime to the group message. You can
configure the system status for hide or show using the hide mask in the single message.
Hide Manually: In the message window, you can use a button to define when you want to
hide a message from one of the three message lists. You can also show the messages
again using another button in the Message window. The system displays the messages
again after a configurable time. Operator input messages can be triggered in Manual Hide.

Configuring Hide
You can configure automatic hide and the duration for manual hide in Alarm Logging. This
section describes the configuration process.
You configure the button for manual hide in WinCC Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer.
Refer chapter "How to Hide and Unhide Messages" for details about configuring and operating
in runtime during manual hide in WinCC Alarm Control.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
Single messages have been created.

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Procedure for Automatic Hiding

1. Select the "User-Defined" folder in the "Group Messages" folder.
2. Select "Add Group Message" in the shortcut menu. The "New Group Message" dialog
opens.

3. Enter the name of the new group message in the "Name" box. Choose the hide tag via the
tag selection dialog. You can use an unsigned 8 bit, 16 bit or 32 bit value as a hide tag.
4. Click "OK" to save your settings.
5. Add the single messages that you want to hide automatically to the group message. Select
"Add Single Message" in the pop-up menu of the group message.

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6. Define the hide condition for each single message of the group message. Select the
"Properties" command in the pop-up menu of the single message selected. The "Single
Message" dialog opens.

7. Select the group with the hide tag in the "Group" field.

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8. You will determine the system status of the hide tag in the field "Hide mask" when the
message will be hidden. Enter the hexa-decimal value in the "Hide mask" or click
.

Select the system statuses in the "System status" dialog. The selected system statuses
are then entered into the "Hide mask" as a hexadecimal value.
9. Click "OK" to save your settings.

Procedure for Manual Hiding

1. If the messages are hidden manually, define the duration for hiding messages from the
messages list in the "Alarm Logging" editor. Select the menu command "Tools" > "Hide
Manually...".

2. Enter the required duration. 30 minutes are preset. The period is interpreted internally in
minutes. You can enter a maximum of 9 days, 23 hours and 59 minutes. This corresponds
to 239 hours and 59 minutes or 14399 minutes.
3. Click "OK" to save your settings.

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See also
Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message (Page975)
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
How to Create a User-Defined Group Message (Page979)
How to Add a Single Message to a Group Message (Page982)
How to Hide and Show Messages (Page1100)

5.4.5.10

Description of WinCC System Messages

Introduction
The system messages generated by the various WinCC modules are described below. You
can integrate these messages into your message system using the "WinCC - System
Messages" menu command.
Note
When you assign system messages to a user-defined message class, the message class
must have the same properties as the system message class.
Note
You can obtain additional information on the system messages in the system message block
"Comment" for the message.

WinCC system messages

950

Number

Error Message / Description

1000000

WCCRT:Error

1000001

WCCRT:Error loading the object engine

1000002

WCCRT:Channel could not be loaded

1000003

WCCRT:Tag - Violated lower limit

1000004

WCCRT:Tag value of the high limit is exceeded

1000005

WCCRT:Format error of tag

1000006

WCCRT:Scale error of tag

1000100

WCCRT:Drive error

1000200

WCCRT:Status

1000201

WCCRT:Object Engine was loaded

1000202

WCCRT:Runtime has been activated

1000203

WCCRT:Runtime has been deactivated

1000204

WCCRT:Connection not established

1000205

WCCRT:Connection established

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Number

Error Message / Description

1000206

WCCRT:Client connection established

1000207

WCCRT:Client connection disconnected

1000208

WCCRT:Client connection broken

1000209

WCCRT:Connection deleted

1000210

WCCRT:Connection modified

1000211

WCCRT:Connection reestablished

1000300

WCCRT:Driver state

1000800

PACKAGE:Import

1000801

PACKAGE:Export

1000802

PACKAGE:Delete

1000803

PACKAGE:New

1000804

PACKAGE:Reload

1000805

PACKAGE:DefaultServer

1000806

PACKAGE:Implicit update

1000807

PACKAGE:Update

1000900

PERFMON: is low

1000901

PERFMON: is OK

1000902

PERFMON: is high

1000903

PERFMON: is OK

1000904

PERFMON: is low

1000905

PERFMON: is OK

1000906

PERFMON: is high

1000907

PERFMON: is OK

1000908

PERFMON: is low

1000909

PERFMON: is OK

1000910

PERFMON: is high

1000911

PERFMON: is OK

1000912

PERFMON: Redundancy loss of the terminal adapter

1000913

PERFMON: Redundancy of the terminal adapter restored

1000914

PERFMON: Terminal adapter connected

1000915

PERFMON: Terminal adapter disconnected

1001000

PDLRT: General error

1001001

PDLRT: Operator action not active

1001002

PDLRT: Wrong picture format

1001003

PDLRT: Picture not found

1001004

PDLRT: No dynamic active in picture

1001005

PDLRT: Tag could not be written

1001006

PDLRT: Dynamic Actions not active

1002000

TLGRT: General error

1002001

TLGRT: Error during initialization

1002002

TLGRT: Error during loading of run-time data

1002003

TLGRT: Error during language switch

1002004

TLGRT: Error during access to database

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Number

Error Message / Description

1002005

TLGRT: Error during creation of run-time objects

1002006

TLGRT: Error during on-line configuration

1002007

TLGRT: Error in client/server environment

1002008

TLGRT: Error in memory management

1002009

TLGRT: Error compiling measured values

1002010

TLGRT: Error processing measured values

1002011

TLGRT: Error archiving measured values

1002012

TLGRT: Error in Format DLL

1002013

TLGRT: Error with user archive option

1002014

TLGRT: Error in process controlled archiving

1002015

TLGRT: Error in the API

1002016

TLGRT: Error with the application window

1002017

TLGRT: System error

1002018

TLGRT: Database queue overflow

1002019

TLGRT: Notification queue overflow

1002020

TLGRT: Norm DLL queue overflow - data is lost!

1002021

TLGRT: Problems with the connection to the central archive server.

1002022

TLGRT: The problem with the connection to the central archive server was fixed.

1003018

ALGRT:Message does not require acknowledgment.

An attempt was made to acknowledge a message that does not require acknowledgement.

1003019

ALGRT:Message has already been acknowledged

An attempt was made to acknowledge a message that has already been acknowledged.

1003020

ALGRT:Message class for the message not found

The message class associated with the message does not exist.

1003021

ALGRT:Message status cannot be processed

The message status (Came In, Went Out, Acknowledged, ...) could not be interpreted.

1003022

ALGRT:Message is locked
This message occurs if you attempt to trigger a locked message via the API.

1003023

ALGRT:Message date/time-stamp invalid

The date/time stamp from the AS could not be interpreted.

1003032

ALGRT:Message window template name unknown

This error occurs when a message window that was previously configured in the Graphics
Design is deleted subsequently.
In the case of client/server projects, this message could also be triggered by a
communication error in the network.

1003033

ALGRT:Message window could not be created

1003034

ALGRT:Message window data invalid

The configuration data are faulty.

1003048

ALGRT:Bit is outside the tag range.

For example, an attempt was made to trigger the 18th bit of a 16-bit tag.

1003049

ALGRT:No tag change

1003050

ALGRT:Message tag (bit) already occupied by a message

The bit of the message tag has already been interconnected to a message.

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Number

Error Message / Description

1003051

ALGRT:Acknowledge tag(bit) already used

The acknowledgement tag bit has already been interconnected to a message.

1003052

ALGRT:Status tag already occupied by message

The bit of the status tag has already been interconnected to a message.

1003053

ALGRT:Error during conversion of the variant data type

1003054

ALGRT:Message tag (bit) already occupied-->different type

1003055

ALGRT:Event tag or tag type invalid

The data type of the message tag is invalid. A tag with sign was used, for example.

1003056

ALGRT: Acknowledgment tag or tag type invalid

The data type of the acknowledgement tag is invalid. A tag with sign was used, for example.

1003057

ALGRT:Status tag or tag type invalid

The data type of the status tag is invalid. A tag with sign was used, for example.

1003058

ALGRT:Handle invalid
This error message can occur during accesses via the API.

1003059

ALGRT: Selection criteria invalid

This error message can occur during accesses via the API.

1003060

ALGRT: Resources DLL for language not found

One of the language-dependent files is missing.

1003061

ALGRT:Error while creating the memory mapped file

This internal error indicates a problem involving the memory.

1003062

ALGRT:Error while creating the synchronization mechanism.

This error occurs when the operating system is overloaded.

1003063

ALGRT:Wrong parameter
This error message can occur during accesses via the API.

1003064

ALGRT:Transfer buffer too small

This error message can occur during accesses via the API.

1003065

ALGRT:This function is not available at this time

This error message can occur during accesses via the API.

1003066

ALGRT:Format DLL send data cannot be evaluated.

1003067

ALGRT:Format DLL. Do not execute function

1003068

ALGRT:No message blocks in the report

Check the message sequence report.

1003069

ALGRT:Invalid log

1003070

ALGRT:Report printout is already active

An attempt was made to restart an active report.

1003071

ALGRT:Message system runtime <Server> not installed

The server reports that the project was activated without the runtime component of Alarm
Logging.

1003072

ALGRT:Printout of the message report could not be started.

1003073

ALGRT:Printout of the short-term archive not started.

1003074

ALGRT:Printout of the sequence archive report not started.

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Number

Error Message / Description

1003075

ALGRT:Limit of Messages for Online Configuration exceeds.

The maximum number of messages that can be configured online (default setting is 600)
has been exceeded.

1003076

NRMS7:Parameter error for S7 message frame

A parameter error has occurred on the interface to S7.

1003077

NRMS7:Parameter error for ALGRT

A parameter error has occurred on the interface to ALGRT.

1003078

NRMS7:Invalid parameter TLGRT

A parameter error has occurred on the interface to TLGRT.

1003079

NRMS7:Invalid process value blocks

The additional data of the messages are faulty.

1003080

NRMS7:Parameter error at AR_SEND

The structure of the AR-SEND user data is faulty.

1003081

NRMS7:General error
An internal error of unknown cause has occurred.

1003082

NRMS7:Message loss on the automation system

1003083

NRMS7:Link-up and update on PLC active

1003084

NRMS7:Link-up and update on PLC finished

1003085

NRMS7:System modification in RUN (CiR) active

1003086

NRMS7:System modification in RUN (CiR) inactive

1003087

NRMS7:Error while logging on to receive message

1003098

ALGRT:Message archiving overflow - messages will be lost

1003099

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Locked messages [message number] [message text of locked

message]
This message occurs when a message is locked.

1003100

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Message [message number] unlocked [message text of

unlocked message]
This message occurs when a message is unlocked.

1003101

ALGRT:Acknowledgement request for message [message number] was issued

This message occurs when a message is acknowledged.

1003102

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Message group [message group number] locked

This message occurs when a message group is locked.

1003103

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Message group [message group number] unlocked

This message occurs when a message group is unlocked.

954

1003104

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Alarm Message Archive Overflow ended - no more Alarms will

be lost

1003105

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:alarm input queue reaches critical count

1003106

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:alarm input queue reaches uncritical count

1003107

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Message [Message Number] hidden:@1%s@

1003108

ALGRT:[Computer Name]:Message [Message Number] shown:@1%s@

1003109

ALGRT:[Computer name]: The connection to the master was interrupted.

1003110

ALGRT:[Computer name]: Incomplete configuration data for message [message number]

detected

1004000

RPTRT:General error

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Number

Error Message / Description

1004001

RPTRT:PRT_OUT-Folder full.

1004002

RPTRT:Spool-Folder full.

1004003

RPTRT:Report was not printed. PRT_OUT directory full

1004004

RPTRT:Report was not printed. Spool folder full

1004005

RPTRT:Message sequence report is reprinted.

1004006

RPTRT:Spool-Folder full.

1004007

RPTRT:Hardcopy was not printed. Spool folder full

1005000

TXTRT:General error

1005001

TXTRT:Error while logging off runtime applications.

1005002

TXTRT:Error during connection of the run-time applications.

1005003

TXTRT:Error during initialization of the MMF.

A memory error has occurred.

1005004

TXTRT:Error while loading the MMF.

Error during access to database.

1005005

TXTRT:Error while opening the MMF.

A memory error has occurred.

1005006

TXTRT:An error occurred while creating the Service window.

1005007

TXTRT:No language found.

1005008

TXTRT:Text ID not found.

The requested Text ID could not be found in the text library.

1005009

TXTRT:MMF Read access refused.

1005010

TXTRT:Language not found.

The requested language has not been configured in the text library.

1005011

TXTRT:Language table could not be opened.

Either the data are faulty or the table is locked in the database.

1005012

TXTRT:Text table could not be opened.

Either the data are faulty or the table is locked in the database.

1005013

TXTRT:Invalid Language specified.

The Language ID specified is invalid.

1005014

TXTRT:DBConnect error
No connection to the database could be set up.

1006000

GSCRT:Error

1007000

SCRIPT:Overflow
Overload: either there are too many actions running in a cycle that is too small, or an action
is suspended (endless loop, dialog output). All the other actions are in the queue and cannot
be processed.

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Number

Error Message / Description

1007001

SCRIPT:Action error
One of the following errors has occurred:
Exception in the action (specific cause unknown)
Exception upon access to the return result (char* associated memory invalid)
Stack overflow upon execution of the action
The action contains a division by 0
The action contains an access to a non-existing symbol
The action contains an access violation
In WinCC version 4.0 and higher, you can integrate the OnErrorExecute function in
your script, which allows for a detailed analysis of errors.

1007002

SCRIPT:Overflow
Internal lists have overflowed.

1007003

SCRIPT:Connection error
The connection to the server is broken.

1007004

SCRIPT:Action error 1
The called function is not known. Check the spelling in the function call and the
implementation of the function.

1007005

SCRIPT:Action error 2
This error can have several causes:
The action does not contain a P code. Recompile the action.
The function could not be loaded, for example, due to incorrect function name.
The type of the returned value of the function is invalid.
In WinCC version 4.0 and higher, you can integrate the OnErrorExecute function in
your script, which allows for a detailed analysis of errors.

1007006

SCRIPT:Tag error
A requested tag was not supplied by WinCC Explorer within 10 seconds. Check the spelling
of the tag name. In the case of external tags, there may be a communication problem
between the WinCC Explorer and the PLC.
From WinCC version 4.0, you have the option to incorporate the OnErrorExecute function
into your script, which allows for a detailed analysis of errors.

1007007

SCRIPT: Info
Additional information under "Diagnostics of WinCC / Runtime Monitoring for Actions".

1007009

SCRIPT:Error in Thread
Additional information under "Diagnostics of WinCC / Runtime Monitoring for Actions".

956

1008000

USERT:Connection to chip card reader paused

1008001

USERT:Incorrect login name/password

1008002

USERT:Incorrect login name/password by chip card

1008003

USERT:Manual Login

1008004

USERT:Login by chipcard

1008005

USERT:Manual Logout

1008006

USERT:Logout by chipcard

1008007

USERT:Automatic Logout by timeout

1009000

LBMRT:Error

1010000

STRRT:Error

1010001

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

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Number

Error Message / Description

1010002

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010003

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010004

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010005

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010006

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010007

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010008

Storage:included for compatibility to earlier versions

1010101

CAS:Starts archive service

1010102

CAS:Archive service is running

1010103

CAS:Archive service could not be started, error

1010104

CAS:Stops archive service

1010105

CAS:Archive service could not be stopped, error

1010106

CAS:Media backup completed successfully

1010107

CAS:Backup process failed, error

1010108

CAS:Backup medium created

1010109

CAS:Backup medium closed

1010110

CAS:Backup connected

1010111

CAS:Backup connection failed, error

1010112

CAS:Backup disconnected

1010113

CAS:Backup disconnection failed, error

1010114

CAS:Import of archive started

1010115

CAS:Import of archive failed, error

1010116

CAS:Import of archive completed

1010117

CAS:Archive failed, error

1010118

CAS:Archive completed

1010119

CAS:Starts processing of archive

1010120

CAS:Data backup started

1010121

CAS:Data backup completed successfully

1010122

CAS: No symbolic name could be assigned to the physical server.

1010123

CAS: Caution, License not found: SIMATIC PCS7 StoragePlus Server. Long-term archiving
deactivated

1010124

CAS: Archive cannot be verified.

1010130

StoragePlus: Directory cannot be created, error

1010131

StoragePlus: File cannot be moved, error

1011000

CSIG:Group display error at start up

1011001

CSIG:Group display hierarchy not updated

1011002

Group display: Connection fault

1011003

Group display: Tag does not exist

1011101

PTM: Error during start up

1011201

SSM: Error during start up

1011202

The fill level of the project drive is over 80%

1011203

The project was created with the wrong WinCC version

1012001

SYNC:Switched to master operation

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958

Number

Error Message / Description

1012002

SYNC:Cannot issue time message frame

1012003

SYNC:Time receipt service: Poor or failed signal

1012004

SYNC:Cannot receive time message frame

1012005

SYNC:Cannot receive any time message frame on redundant bus

1012006

SYNC:No time message frame. Switch to redundant device

1012007

SYNC:Can issue time message frame properly

1012008

SYNC:Time reception service functions properly

1012009

SYNC:Can receive time message frame properly

1012010

SYNC:Can receive time message frame properly on redundant bus

1012011

SYNC:Switched to slave operation

1012012

SYNC:Time synchronization deactivated

1012013

SYNC:Time synchronization activated

1012014

SYNC:DCF77 client service has failed

1012015

SYNC:DCF77 client service is working properly

1012016

SYNC:Device switched to master operation

1012017

SYNC:Device switched to slave operation

1012018

SYNC:Device cannot issue time message frame

1012019

SYNC:Device can issue time message frame properly

1012020

SYNC:Device sets local time

1012021

SYNC:LAN sync: Time synchronization fault on PC

1012022

SYNC:LAN sync: Time synchronization set on PC

1012023

SYNC:LAN sync: Time synchronization established with PC

1012024

SYNC:Configured device name for the time synchronization does not agree with PC
installation

1012025

SYNC:LAN sync: Cannot acquire time from the connected WinCC server

1012026

SYNC:Time jump - switched to permanent slave mode

1012027

SYNC:Time jump - time synchronization permanently deactivated

1012028

SYNC:Time reception service not started

1012029

SYNC:Time reception service

1012200

REDRT:Partner station has failed

1012201

REDRT:Partner station restarted

1012202

REDRT:Projects are not functionally identical

1012203

REDRT:Archive synchronization failed

1012204

REDRT:Internal error in Redundancy

1012205

REDRT:Connection to partner disturbed

1012206

REDRT:Connection to the partner has been reestablished

1012207

REDRT:Partner server - WinCC has not been started

1012208

REDRT:Archive synchronization starts

1012209

REDRT:Synchronization finished

1012210

REDRT:Tag Logging is being synchronized

1012211

REDRT:Tag Logging synchronization finished

1012212

REDRT:Alarm Logging is being synchronized

1012213

REDRT:Alarm Logging synchronization finished

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Number

Error Message / Description

1012214

REDRT:User Synchronization launched

1012215

REDRT:User Archive synchronization finished

1012216

REDRT:Synchronization was paused

1012217

REDRT:Partner Server-Project has not been activated

1012218

SWITCH:Client has been switched automatically

1012219

SWITCH:Client has been switched manually

1012220

REDRT:Synchronization is not ready for all User Archives

1012221

REDRT:Synchronization is ready for all User Archives

1012222

SWRED:Main connection disturbed

1012223

SWRED:Main connection operational

1012224

SWRED:Backup connection disturbed

1012225

SWRED:Backup connection operational

1012226

REDRT:Partner Server-Project has been activated

1012227

REDRT:Error: Partner computer is not a server

1012228

REDRT:CAS: Archive synchronization launched

1012229

REDRT: CAS: Archive synchronization finished

1012240

REDRT:RedundancyControl error triggered switching

1012241

REDRT:RedundancyControl: Switch to status

1012242

DELTALOADER:Delta loading was started

1012243

DELTALOADER:Delta loading ended

1012244

REDRT:Overload during Alarm Logging online update

1012245

REDRT:RedundancyControl: Loss of serial connection

1012246

REDRT:RedundancyControl: Serial connection reestablished

1012247

REDRT: OS server (standby) redundancy error

1012248

REDRT: OS server (standby) redundancy reestablished

1012250

AM:Archive database inconsistency possible

1012251

AM:Internal error

1012252

AM:Backup:Error on writing to backup path

1012253

AM:Backup:Insufficient storage space on destination drive

1012254

AM:No connection to WriteArchiveServer

1012255

AM:No connection to Microsoft Message Queue

1012256

AM:No connection to WinCC project

1012257

AM:No connection to the database

1012258

AM:No connection to text library

1012259

AM:Error on generating TagLogging data

1012260

AM:Error on generating AlarmLogging data

1012265

AM:Data base verification failed

1012301

CA:No access to SQL Server (loss of data possible)

1012348

AM:Insufficient free memory space on project drive

1012349

REDRT:RedundancyControl: Connection of network card (MAC) address lost

1012350

REDRT:RedundancyControl: Connection via network card (MAC) address established

again

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Number

Error Message / Description

1012400

WEBRT:WebClient connection established

1012401

WEBRT:WebClient connection disconnected

See also
How To Insert WinCC System Messages (Page960)

5.4.5.11

How To Insert WinCC System Messages

Introduction
The installation directory of WinCC contains the "LTMDaten.CSV" file. This file contains special
system messages that are triggered by various WinCC components at runtime.
Use the "WinCC System Messages" menu command to integrate the system messages into
your message system.
Note
If installing a language later while having already created the WinCC system messages using
this dialog, you once again have to read in the system messages.
Click "OK" in the "WinCC system messages" dialog. This enters the message texts of the
new language in the text library.

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Prerequisite
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select "WinCC System Messages..." in the "Tools" menu. The "WinCC System Messages"
dialog opens.
2. In the dialog, select the message generation parameters.

3. Click "Create" to start generating the system messages according to the options selected.
Click "Close" to exit the dialog.

See also
Description of WinCC System Messages (Page950)

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5.4.5.12

Importing and Exporting Messages

Structure of the Import/Export File

Introduction
You can import text files into Alarm Logging and export the configured messages.
ASCII is the reference format for the import and export files. The individual message blocks
are separated by commas, and the message lines are separated by paragraph symbols (hard
returns).
Messages are imported individually. Both of the system-internal classes are also exported.
System classes changed by the import are to be disregarded.
Note
When importing texts, you must set the associated indices to "0".

Structure of the File

The data are output and input according to a standardized sequence.
Alphabetical order corresponds to the columns in MS Excel tables.
Column Description

962

Message number

Parameter bit-coded.
For exact coding details, refer to "ODK Open Developers Kit" documentation. The
documentation is only available when WinCC option "ODK" is installed.

Message classes 1-16 and default message classes 17+18

Message type (1-260, depending on class; 256 user-defined message types, 4 systeminternal message types)
Class 1: ;1-16
Class 2: ;17-32,
Class 3: ;33-48,
Class n: ;(n-1)*16+1 to n*16

Index of 1st user text block in the text library

Index of 2nd user text block in the text library

Index of 3rd user text block in the text library

Index of 4th user text block in the text library

Index of 5th user text block in the text library

Index of 6th user text block in the text library

Index of 7th user text block in the text library

Index of 8th user text block in the text library

Index of 9th user text block in the text library

Index of 10th user text block in the text library

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Column Description
O

Text of the 1st user text block

Text of the 2nd user text block

Text of the 3rd user text block

Text of the 4th user text block

Text of the 5th user text block

Text of the 6th user text block

Text of the 7th user text block

Text of the 8th user text block

Text of the 9th user text block

Text of the 10th user text block

Tag of the 1st process value bock for the message

Tag of the 2nd process value bock for the message

AA

Tag of the 3rd process value bock for the message

AB

Tag of the 4th process value block for the message

AC

Tag of the 5th process value bock for the message

QD

Tag of the 6th process value bock for the message

AE

Tag of the 7th process value bock for the message

AF

Tag of the 8th process value bock for the message

AG

Tag of the 9th process value bock for the message

AH

Tag of the 10th process value bock for the message

AI

Message tag

AJ

Message bit

AK

Acknowledgement tag

AL

Acknowledgement bit

AM

Status tag

AN

Status bit

AO

Automation system number

AP

PLC subnumber (CPU number)

AQ

Info text

AR

Action type (LoopInAlarm)

AS

Function name

AT

Function parameter (Picture Name)

AU

Name of the Format DLL

AV

Group identification

QW

Group name

AX

Hide mask

AY

Creator identification

AZ

Priority

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See also
How to Export Single Messages (Page966)
How to Import Single Messages (Page964)

How to Import Single Messages

Introduction
You can import text files containing messages in standard text format in Alarm Logging. Empty
or non-occupied positions of a message to be imported must be assigned a "0" in the text file.

Settings for Importing

You can specify the following settings for importing single messages:
Mode

Description

Import new messages and

overwrite existing messages

When messages are imported, messages with as yet non-existing

message numbers are imported while messages with existing message
numbers are overwritten

Import new messages only

When messages are imported, only messages with as yet non-existing

message numbers are imported.

Deleting messages

When messages are imported, messages with existing message

numbers are deleted.

Note
The text that you want to import import into the message system must not contain any special
characters, e.g., commas, semicolons, tabs, paragraph end marks, and line breaks. The
special characters are interpreted as separators during an import.
Check files imported from external applications for incorrect assignments and interconnection
errors.
If the tags are not configured in the WinCC tag management, the tag connection is lost when
the messages are imported. These messages must be deleted following an import before
new messages are compiled using "OS-Compile".

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the "Messages" menu, select "Import Single Messages...". The "Import Messages" dialog
is opened.
2. Click the
button next to the "File:" box. Select an import file in the file selection dialog
that appears.

3. If you want to import single messages that were exported using WinCC Version 1.0, select
"File Format WinCC Version 1.0".
4. Specify the import mode of the text file in the "Mode" group.
5. Click "Import" to import the text file into the message system. Click "Cancel Import" to cancel
the import in progress.
6. Click "Close" to close the dialog.

See also
Structure of the Import/Export File (Page962)

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How to Export Single Messages

Introduction
You can export all configured messages or messages belonging to a specific message class.
In so doing, the messages to be exported are transferred in standard format to a text file. You
cannot select individual messages.

Settings for Exporting

The following options can be set for exporting single messages:

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Options

Description

Format

Only text files (ASCII-format) can be exported at this time.

Separator within
the fields

You must activate this option if separators, such as commas, colons, semicolons,
etc., are contained in the field texts to be exported.
During the export, the content of a field is checked. If the text in a field to be
exported contains a separator, this text will be placed in quotation marks in the
export file.

Set text identifiers

to 0

This option is used to specify whether the ID of the message in the text library is
also to be exported.
If an import to another file is to be carried out, we recommend that you set the
IDs to 0.
If the messages are to be re-imported at a later stage into the current project, we
recommend not setting the text IDs to 0.

Set group
identifiers to 0

This option is used to define whether the group ID is also to be exported with the
message.
If an import to another file is to be carried out, we recommend that you set the
group IDs to 0.
If the messages are to be re-imported at a later stage into the current project, we
recommend not setting the group IDs to 0.

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the "Messages" menu, select "Export Single Messages...". The "Export Message" dialog
opens.
2. Click the
appears.

button next to the "File:" box. Select an export file in the selection dialog that

3. If you want to export only specific single messages, click "Selection". In the "Specify
Selection" dialog, select the message classes you want to export messages from.
4. Click "Export" to start exporting the messages. Click "Cancel Export" to cancel the export
in progress.
5. Click "Close" to close the dialog.

See also
Structure of the Import/Export File (Page962)

5.4.5.13

How to Edit Multiple Messages

Introduction
A selection of single messages can be edited simultaneously.

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Possible Actions
You can edit multiple messages simultaneously with the following actions:
Action

Description

Deleting messages

The messages indicated in the "Message Numbers" box are deleted.

Append messages to the end of

the list

The messages indicated in the "Message Numbers" box are

appended to the end of the table of single messages.

Delete tag connections of the

messages

The tag connections of the messages indicated in the "Message

Numbers" box are deleted

Delete text connections of the

messages

The text fields of the messages indicated in the "Message Numbers"

box are deleted.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the "Messages" menu, select "Multiple Messages...". The "Multiple Messages" dialog
opens.
2. In the "Message Numbers" field, enter the numbers or the number ranges of the individual
messages that you want to edit.

3. Select the action to be carried out by clicking the appropriate button.

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5.4.5.14

How to Assign Texts to Multiple Messages

Introduction
You can assign the same text to several user text blocks.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the "Messages" menu, select "Texts for Multiple Messages...". The "Messages with Same
Text" dialog opens.
2. In the "Message Numbers:" box, enter the numbers or the number range of the individual
messages to which you wish to assign the text.

3. Enter a text of up to 255 characters in the desired user text blocks. By clicking
insert process values into your user text blocks.

, you can

4. If you exit the dialog by clicking "OK", the entries in the text library are changed accordingly.
If the "Keep Existing Text" function is not activated, new text IDs are created in the text
library. The existing texts are no longer linked to the specified messages.

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See also
How to Change the Text Input Mode (Page901)
How to Insert Process Values in User Text Blocks (Page940)
How to Specify the Message Texts of a Single Message (Page938)

5.4.6

Working with Group Messages

5.4.6.1

Working with Group Messages

Introduction
A group message is used to combine several single messages into one overall message.
You can combine single messages into two different group messages:

Compilation into a "Group Message from Message Classes"

When a new message class is created, the associated group message is also created from
all the included messages. All message types within the message class are applied to the
group message.

Compilation into a "User-defined group message"

User-defined group messages can contain single messages as well as other group messages
and can be processed via the shortcut menu. However, a single message can only be included
in one group message.

Assignment of Tags
The following tags can be assigned to a group message:
The status tag returns the message status. You can also query the message status of a
group message from the other WinCC components.
Using the lock tag you can evaluate the lock of a group message.
Use an acknowledgement tag to define the acknowledgement of the group message.
Use the hide tag of a customized group message to define the conditions for single
messages of the group - when should a message be automatically hidden from the
message list, short-term archive list and long-term archive list.

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See also
How to Delete a User-Defined Group Message (Page983)
How to Remove a Single Message from a Group Message (Page983)
How to Add a Single Message to a Group Message (Page982)
How to Create a User-Defined Group Message (Page979)
User-defined group message (Page978)
How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes (Page977)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Group Message (Page974)
Lock Tag of a Group Message (Page973)
Status Tag of a Group Message (Page971)
Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message (Page975)

5.4.6.2

Status Tag of a Group Message

Introduction
Two message states are associated with a group message:
The "activated/deactivated" states indicate the corresponding state of one of the nested
messages. This can also be another group message.
The acknowledgment status indicates whether the triggering single message of the group
message requires acknowledgment and has not yet been acknowledged.
Both states of the group message are saved to a status tag. Depending on the data type of
the tag, up to 16 group messages can be logged to a status tag. Each group message uses
2 bits of the status tag.

"Acknowledgment bit"
The acknowledgment bit in the status tag changes to the status "1" as soon as at least one
single message that belongs to the group message and that requires acknowledgment was
activated and was not acknowledged. The acknowledgment bit changes to the status "0" as
soon as all the single messages that belong to the group message and that require
acknowledgment have been acknowledged.

Position of the bits in "activated/deactivated" state and in acknowledgment state

The position of the bit for "activated/deactivated" states in the status tag is identified by the
status bit. The position of the "acknowledgment bit" depends on the data type of the status tag.
The distance to the bit with "activated/deactivated" state is:
4 bits for the "8 bit unsigned" tag.
8 bits for the "16 bit unsigned" tag.
16 bits for the "32 bit unsigned" tag.

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Status tag of data type "32 Bit Unsigned"

If the status tag is of data type "32 bit unsigned" and the status bit = 9,
bit 9 of the status tag indicates the "activated/deactivated" state of the group message.
bit 25 of the status tag indicates whether the group message contains a message requiring
acknowledgment that has not yet been acknowledged.
Bits "0-15" correspond accordingly to bits "16-31" of a "32-bit" status tag.

Status tag of data type "16 Bit Unsigned"

If the status tag is of data type "16 bit unsigned" and the status bit = 3,
bit 3 of the status tag indicates the "activated/deactivated" state of the group message.
bit 11 of the status tag indicates whether the group message contains a message requiring
acknowledgment that has not yet been acknowledged.
Bits "0-7" correspond accordingly to bits "8-15" of a "16-bit" status tag.

Status tag of data type "8 Bit Unsigned"

If the status tag is of data type "8 bit unsigned" and the status bit = 3,
bit 3 of the status tag indicates the "activated/deactivated" state of the group message.
bit 7 of the status tag indicates whether the group message contains a message requiring
acknowledgment that has not yet been acknowledged.
Bits "0-3" correspond accordingly to bits "4-7" in an "8-bit" status tag.

Configuring the status tags

Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of a group message you created. Specify the status
tag in the "Properties" dialog.

972

Click

to open the dialog for selecting the status tag.

Click

to reset the status tag and the status bit assignment.

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Note
Do not combine any tag bits of the status with other tags of the message, such as an
acknowledgment tag.

See also
How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes (Page977)
Lock Tag of a Group Message (Page973)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Group Message (Page974)
Working with Group Messages (Page970)

5.4.6.3

Lock Tag of a Group Message

Introduction
The lock tag of a group message is used to evaluate the locked status of the group message.
Define a lock bit in the lock tag for this purpose.
The structure of the lock tag is not specified. You have the following options of configuring lock
tags:
Configure a separate lock tag for each group message.
Group several group messages in a single lock tag. Group messages are identified by
means of the lock bit.
If a group message is locked at runtime by means of the lock dialog, the associated lock bit is
set in the configured tag.

Configuring the lock tag

Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of a group message you created. Specify the lock tag
in the "Properties" dialog.
Click

to open the dialog for selection of the tag you want to use as a lock tag.

Click

to reset the lock tag and the lock bit assignment.

Note
Do not mix any lock tag bits of the message with other tags of the message, such as a status
tag.

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See also
How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes (Page977)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Group Message (Page974)
Status Tag of a Group Message (Page971)
Working with Group Messages (Page970)

5.4.6.4

Acknowledgement Tag of a Group Message

Introduction
The acknowledgment tag of a group message is used to acknowledge all of its single
messages. Define an acknowledgment bit in the acknowledgment tag for this purpose.
The structure of the acknowledgment tag is not specified. You have the following options of
configuring acknowledgment tags:
Configure a separate acknowledgment tag for each group message.
Group several group messages in a single acknowledgment tag. Group messages are
distinguished by means of the acknowledgment bit.
The corresponding acknowledgment bit is set to acknowledge the group message at runtime.
The acknowledgment or the reset of the acknowledgment bit is triggered by actions, e.g. by
clicking a button on the WinCC process screen, or by means of a program in the AS.
Note
The acknowledgment bit of a group message of a specific message class, or of a user-defined
group message, does not indicate any acknowledgments triggered by the WinCC Alarm
Control.

Configuring acknowledgment tags

Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of a group message you created. Specify the
acknowledgment tag in the "Properties" dialog.
Click

to open the dialog for selection of the tag you want to use as an acknowledgment tag.

Click

to reset the acknowledgment tag and acknowledgment bit definition.

Note
Do not combine any bits of the acknowledgment tag with other tags of the message, such as
a status tag.

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See also
How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes (Page977)
Lock Tag of a Group Message (Page973)
Status Tag of a Group Message (Page971)
Working with Group Messages (Page970)

5.4.6.5

Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message

Introduction
The hide tag of a customized group message is used for automatically hiding single messages
that belong to this group message.

Overview
In the parameters of the single message you will specify the system status for the hiding of
the single mask via the hide mask. Select the system statuses in the "System status" dialog.

The selected system statuses are then entered into the "Hide mask" as a hexadecimal value.
During runtime, if the value of the tag number matches a system status, the message is
automatically hidden in the message list, short-term archive list and long-term archive list. The
hidden messages are added to the list of hidden messages.

Relation between hide tag and hide mask

The hexadecimal value of the hide mask is composed of the configured system statuses. The
hide tag must accept the value of the system status so that the message can be hidden. Thus,
multiple messages can be hidden for a value of the system status if you have configured the
hide masks accordingly.
In the following sections you will see five examples for 8, 16 and 32-bit values of the hide tag.
The value of the hide tag corresponds to the respective system status.

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Hide mask 0x0. Hiding is deactivated. The message is never hidden. The system status is
configured as follows:

Hide mask 0x1. If the hide tag assumes the value "1", the message is hidden. The system
status is configured as follows:

Hide mask 0xD. If the hide tag assumes the value "1", "3" or "4", the message is hidden.
The system status is configured as follows:

Hide mask 0x80000008. If the hide tag assumes the value "4" or "32", the message is
hidden. The system status is configured as follows:

Hide mask 0xFFFFFFFF. If the hide tag has a value greater than zero, the message is
hidden. The system status is configured as follows:

Configuring the hide tags

Select the "Properties" command in the group message pop-up menu in the case of a group
message already created. Define the hide tag in the "Properties" dialog. You can use an
unsigned 8 bit, 16 bit or 32 bit value as a hide tag.

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Click

to open the dialog for selecting the tags you want to use as hide tag.

Click

to reset the definition of the hide tag.

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See also
Parameters of a Single Message (Page928)
User-defined group message (Page978)
How to Configure the Hiding of Messages (Page945)

5.4.6.6

How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes

Introduction
You can change the properties of the group message:
for Group Message from Message Classes
for the Message Types within the Group Message from Message Classes
As a result, you can assign various status tags, lock tags and acknowledgement tags to the
group messages.

Parameters of Group Messages from Message Classes

You can set the following properties for a group message:
Parameters

Description

Status tag

Here, you specify the tag in which the statuses of the group message ("Came In /
Went Out" and acknowledgement status) are to be stored.

Status bit

The status bit is used to specify the two bits of the status tag in which the statuses
of the currently selected group message are to be stored.

Lock tag

If you lock a group message via the Lock dialog during runtime, the relevant bit is
set in the tag defined here.

Lock bit

If you are using a lock tag for several group messages, you specify the assignment
to a group message by means of a lock bit.

Acknowledgement Here, you specify the tag to be used as the acknowledgement tag.
tag
Acknowledgement Here, you specify the bit in the acknowledgement tag that is to be used to
bit
acknowledge the message.

Click

to open the dialog for tag selection.

Click

to reset the tag assignment and the bit used in it.

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select a group message from message classes or a message type within a message class
from message classes.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Properties" dialog opens.
3. Change the specifications for status tags, lock tags and acknowledgement tags, e.g., in the
message class of a group message.

4. Click "OK" to save your settings.

See also
User-defined group message (Page978)
Working with Group Messages (Page970)

5.4.6.7

User-defined group message

User-defined group message

Introduction
You can use user-defined group messages to configure a message hierarchy tailored to your
own needs.

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You can combine single messages as well as another group message into one overall
message. However, a single message can only be included in one user-defined group
message. A maximum of six nesting levels of the user-defined group message is possible.
You need a customized group message with single messages whose messages you want to
hide in runtime from the message list, short-term archive list or long-term archive list.

Configuration
You have the following configuration options:
Inserting and configuring customized group messages
Display and modify the properties of a user-defined group message
Add additional single messages to an existing group message
Add additional group messages to an existing group message
Modify the properties of a single message contained in a group message

See also
How to Delete a User-Defined Group Message (Page983)
How to Remove a Single Message from a Group Message (Page983)
How to Add a Single Message to a Group Message (Page982)
How to Create a User-Defined Group Message (Page979)
Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message (Page975)

How to Create a User-Defined Group Message

Introduction
You have the following options available when creating user-defined group messages:
Create a new user-defined group message
Create a subordinate group message to a user-defined group message

User-Defined Group Message Parameters

You can set the following properties for a user-defined group message:
Parameters

Description

Source

Name of the higher-level object in the navigation window.

Name

Name of the user-defined group message

Status tag

Here, you specify the tag in which the statuses of the group message ("Came In /
Went Out" and acknowledgement status) are to be stored.

Status bit

The status bit is used to specify the two bits of the status tag in which the statuses
of the currently selected group message are to be stored.

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Parameters

Description

Lock tag

If you lock a group message via the Lock dialog during runtime, the relevant bit is
set in the tag defined here.

Lock bit

If you are using a lock tag for several group messages, you specify the assignment
to a group message by means of a lock bit.

Acknowledgement Here, you specify the tag to be used as the acknowledgement tag.
tag
Acknowledgement Here, you specify the bit in the acknowledgement tag that is to be used to
bit
acknowledge the message.
Hide tag

You define here the hide tag needed to hide messages of the single message of
the group message.

Click

to open the dialog for tag selection.

Click

to reset the definition of the tags.

Note
In the case of a group message made up of message classes or a user-defined group
message, the acknowledgement bit does not indicate an acknowledgement made through
the WinCC Alarm Control.

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "User-Defined" folder in the "Group Messages" folder.
If you want to subordinate a group message, select a user-defined group message that you
have already created.
2. Select "Add Group Message" in the shortcut menu. The "New Group Message" dialog
opens.

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3. Enter the name of the new group message in the "Name" box. Configure the tags you need
for the group message.

4. Click "OK" to save your settings.

See also
How to Delete a User-Defined Group Message (Page983)
How to Remove a Single Message from a Group Message (Page983)
How to Add a Single Message to a Group Message (Page982)
User-defined group message (Page978)
How to Change the Properties of a Group Message from Message Classes (Page977)
Acknowledgement Tag of a Group Message (Page974)
Status Tag of a Group Message (Page971)
Hide tag of a User-Defined Group Message (Page975)

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How to Add a Single Message to a Group Message

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
You have already created a user-defined group message.
Note
If you delete a single message in the table window, all assignments of this single message
in the group messages are also deleted.

Procedure
1. In the "Group Messages" folder, select the user-defined group message to which you want
to add single messages.
2. Select "Add Single Message" in the shortcut menu. The "New Single Message(s)" dialog
opens.
3. Enter the numbers of the single messages in the "Message Number(s)" box that correspond
to the numbers in the table window.

4. The "Only then insert single message(s) if it does not already belong to a group" option
prevents you from changing existing assignments.
If this option is not selected, the existing assignments are canceled and replaced by an
assignment to the selected group message.
If this option is selected, existing assignments of single messages to a group message are
retained.
If the assignment is changed, no message is issued by WinCC.
5. Click "OK" to save your settings.

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See also
How to Delete a User-Defined Group Message (Page983)
How to Remove a Single Message from a Group Message (Page983)
User-defined group message (Page978)

How to Remove a Single Message from a Group Message

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
You have already created a user-defined group message.

Procedure
1. Select the single message whose group assignment you want to change in the table window.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Single Message" dialog opens.
3. Change the group assignment in the "Group" selection list on the "Parameters" tab. If you
do not want to assign the single message to any group message, select "None".
4. Click "OK" to confirm the change.

Alternative Procedure
1. In the table window, double-click the single message whose group assignment you want
to change.
2. Change the group assignment in the selection list. If you do not want to assign the single
message to any group message, select "None".

See also
How to Delete a User-Defined Group Message (Page983)
How to Add a Single Message to a Group Message (Page982)
User-defined group message (Page978)

How to Delete a User-Defined Group Message

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
You have already created a user-defined group message.

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Procedure
1. In the "Group Messages" folder, select the user-defined group message that you want to
delete.
2. Select "Delete Group Message" in the shortcut menu. The group message is removed from
the message system.

See also
How to Remove a Single Message from a Group Message (Page983)
How to Create a User-Defined Group Message (Page979)
User-defined group message (Page978)

5.4.7

Working with the Limit Value Monitoring

5.4.7.1

Working with the Limit Value Monitoring

Introduction
The limit value monitoring allows you to specify any number of limit values for a tag. A message
is generated in runtime if one of the limit values is exceeded.
The limit value monitoring function is an add-on in WinCC and must be integrated into the
message system. The "Limit Value Monitoring" folder is then incorporated in the navigation
window of the message system.

Configuring Limit Value Monitoring

1. Integration of the limit value monitoring
2. Specification of the tag to be monitored
3. Specification of a limit value to be monitored

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Note
Changes in the dialogs of the limit value monitoring are applied immediately to the database
tables after the dialog is closed.
In the case of online configuration, you must save your message system in order to supply
the modified values to the project during runtime.

See also
Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page985)
How to Delete Objects of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page991)
How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored (Page989)
How to specify the tag to be monitored (Page986)
How to Integrate Add-Ins into the Message System (Page900)

5.4.7.2

Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring

Specification of message numbers

In the "Properties" dialog for the tag and the limit value, you can specify the number of a
message that is to be generated during a limit violation. This affects the configuration of a
message as follows:
If you specify the number of a message that does not yet exist, this message will be created
automatically.
If you specify the number of an existing message, several properties of that message will
be changed. Settings for message tags as well as the interconnections of process value
blocks 1 to 3 will be deleted.
Note
When configuring the limit value monitoring, you must not create the automatically generated
messages additionally via the table window in Alarm Logging.. After Alarm Logging is
restarted, the messages are visible and can be modified in the table window.
The values of the limit value, hysteresis, and trigger value are stored in process value blocks
1 to 3. The process value blocks 4 to 10 must not be used for a limit value monitoring message.

See also
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring (Page984)
How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored (Page989)
How to specify the tag to be monitored (Page986)

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5.4.7.3

How to specify the tag to be monitored

Parameters of the tag

You can set the following properties for the tag to be monitored:
Parameters

Description

Number of limit
values

This field displays the number of limit values to be monitored.

A message for all

limit values

If this option is selected, the same message is always displayed if one of the
configured limit values is violated during runtime.

Message number

Here, you specify the number of the message that is to be generated during
runtime in the event of a limit violation.

Delay time

Here, you specify the delay time between the limit value violation and the
generation of the message. The message will only be triggered if the limit value
has been violated for the entire delay time.
The delay time can be set from 250 to 10,000 ms. If you wish no delay time, enter
the value "0".

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
Limit value monitoring has been integrated into the message system.

Procedure
1. Select the "Limit Value Monitoring" folder in the navigation window.
2. Select "New..." in the shortcut menu. The "Properties" dialog opens.

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3. Enter the name of the tag in the "Tag to be Monitored" box or click
the dialog that opens:

. Select the tag in

4. Specify the other tag properties.

5. Click "OK" to save your settings.

See also
How to Change the Properties of a Tag to be Monitored (Page988)
Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page985)
How to Delete Objects of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page991)
How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored (Page989)
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring (Page984)

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5.4.7.4

How to Change the Properties of a Tag to be Monitored

Parameters of the tag

You can change the following properties for the tag to be monitored:
Parameters

Description

A message for all

limit values

If this option is selected, the same message is always displayed if one of the
configured limit values is violated during runtime.

Message number

Here, you specify the number of the message that is to be generated during
runtime in the event of a limit violation.

Delay time

Here, you specify the delay time between the limit value violation and the
generation of the message. The message will only be triggered if the limit value
has been violated for the entire delay time.
The delay time can be set from 250 to 10,000 ms. If you wish no delay time, enter
the value "0".

Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
Limit value monitoring has been integrated into the message system.
You have configured a tag of the limit value monitoring to be monitored.

Procedure
1. Select the tag whose properties you want to change in the "Limit Value Monitoring" folder
in the navigation window or in the data window.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu. The "Properties" dialog opens.

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3. Change the properties of the tag.

4. Click "OK" to save your settings.

See also
Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page985)
How to Delete Objects of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page991)
How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored (Page989)
How to specify the tag to be monitored (Page986)
How to Integrate Add-Ins into the Message System (Page900)
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring (Page984)

5.4.7.5

How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored

Introduction
You can specify any number of limit values to be monitored for a tag. To do this, call up the
dialog for specifying limit values multiple times.

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Parameters of Limit Values

You can set the following properties for the limit values to be monitored:
Parameters

Description

High limit

A message is generated when the tag value exceeds the high limit.

Low limit

A message is generated when the tag value falls below the low limit.

Limit value or tag

The edit box contains the limit value to be monitored or the specified tag. Click
"Tag" to open the tag selection dialog.
When you click "OK" to close the variable selection dialog, the "Indirect" option
will be selected. Do not use a tag whose name is comprised solely of numbers to
define indirect limit values. The tag name must start with a letter. With indirect limit
value specification, the value of the tag to be monitored is stored in process value
block 3 when the message is triggered.

Hysteresis

If a hysteresis has been defined, messages are not triggered immediately when
the limit value is reached; rather, they are triggered when the actual tag value
exceeds or falls below the limit value by the amount of the hysteresis.
You can specify the hysteresis either as an absolute deviation or as a percentage
deviation from the limit value. Depending on the selected setting, the hysteresis
will become effective while a message is generated or revoked.

Message

Here, you enter the number of the message to be generated in runtime if a limit
value violation occurs.
This field can only be edited if you did not select the "A message for all limit values"
option in the "Properties of Tags" dialog.

No check with
quality codes
other than
"GOOD"

If this option is activated, a possible value change for the tag with a quality code
other than "GOOD" is not checked for a limit value violation, such as a failed
connection to the automation system.

Requirements
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
Limit value monitoring has been integrated into the message system.
You have configured a tag of the limit value monitoring to be monitored.

Procedure
1. Select the tag to be monitored in the "Limit Value Monitoring" dialog in the navigation
window or in the data window.
2. Select "New..." in the shortcut menu. The "Properties" dialog opens.

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3. Specify the properties of the limit value.

4. Click "OK" to save your settings.

See also
Examples of Configuring a Limit Value (Page992)
Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page985)
How to Delete Objects of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page991)
How to specify the tag to be monitored (Page986)
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring (Page984)

5.4.7.6

How to Delete Objects of the Limit Value Monitoring

Introduction
You can delete the tag to be monitored and the limit values.

Deleting a Tag To Be Monitored

1. Select the tag to be monitored that you want to delete in the "Limit Value Monitoring" folder
in the navigation window or in the data window.
2. Select "Delete" in the shortcut menu. The tag along with the configured limit values are
deleted. The assigned message is retained in the message system.

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Deleting a limit value

1. In the data window of the tag of the limit value monitoring to be monitored, select the limit
value.
2. Select "Delete" in the shortcut menu. The configured limit value is deleted. The assigned
message is retained in the message system.

5.4.7.7

Examples of Configuring a Limit Value

Introduction
The following examples illustrate how the configuration of limit values affects the behavior of
the limit value monitoring.

Example 1

Message No. 4 is triggered (arrives) when the tag to be monitored has exceeded the value
220.
Message No. 4 is revoked (exits) when the tag to be monitored drops below the value 200.

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Example 2

Message No. 4 is triggered (arrives) when the tag to be monitored has exceeded the value in
the "Limit Value" tag.
Message No. 4 is revoked (exits) when the tag to be monitored has dropped below the value
of the "Limit Value" tag by 10%.

See also
Messages of the Limit Value Monitoring (Page985)
How to Specify the Limit Values to be Monitored (Page989)
How to specify the tag to be monitored (Page986)
Working with the Limit Value Monitoring (Page984)

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5.5

Message Archiving

5.5

Resources

5.5.1

Message Archiving in WinCC

Introduction
With the archive management feature in WinCC, you have the option to archive process values
and messages for the documentation of specific operational faults and error statuses. A
Microsoft SQL Server is used for archiving.
Messages configured in Alarm Logging are output during runtime when the corresponding
event occurs, for example, a fault or a limit violation. Messages are archived if events known
as message events occur, for example:
when the message occurs,
when the status of the message changes (e.g., from "Message Came In" to "Message
Acknowledged")
You can save the message events in an archive database and archive it as a message report
on paper. The messages archived in the database can, for example, be output in a message
window.

Archived Message Data

All data associated with a message, including the configuration data, is saved in the message
archives. You can read out all properties of a message from the archives, including its message
type, time stamp, and texts. A subsequent change to the configuration data of a message
results in the creation of a new archive with the new configuration data. This ensures that the
change has no effect on messages that were archived before the change was made.
Note
The time stamp on archived messages is always in standard UTC format (Coordinated
Universal Time).
Because messages are configured on a language-dependent basis, archives contain a table
with the configuration data for each configured language.

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Quantity Structure
The following table shows the number of messages that WinCC can process. The actual
number depends on the server in use. The information in the table refers to the following server
configuration:
Intel Pentium III with 1.4 GHz
512 MB RAM
40 GB hard disk
Maximum of 16 clients

Server

Special archive server

Sustained message load (per second)

10 messages

100 messages

Message flow (per 10 seconds)

2,000 messages

15,000 messages

Note
The values for message flow apply only to archiving. For further processing in Alarm Logging,
additional time must be planned: five minutes must elapse before a new message overload
can be created.

See also
Message Server (Page1012)
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)
Configuration of Message Archiving (Page995)

5.5.2

Configuration of Message Archiving

5.5.2.1

Configuration of Message Archiving

Introduction
To archive messages, WinCC uses short-term archives of configurable size, which you can
configure with or without backup.

Storing archive files

Archive files are always stored so that they are local to the computer in the associated project.

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Properties of message archives

A WinCC message archive consists of multiple individual segments. You can configure both
the size of the message archive and the size of the individual segments in WinCC:
The size of the message archive or individual segments, for example, Message archive
size 100 MB, 5 MB per individual segment.
The archiving period of the message archive or the individual segments, for example, The
message archive archives all messages which occur within one week, each individual
segment archives the messages which occur within one day. The configuration of the
archiving period is called archive partitioning.

You can always configure both conditions at the same time. If either of the two criteria is
exceeded, the following happens:
1. Criteria for message archive (DB) is exceeded: the oldest messages (i.e. the oldest
individual segment) are deleted.
2. Criteria for individual segment is exceeded: a new individual segment (ES) is created.
A new individual segment is also created when you configure message data online.
Note
When starting Runtime, the system checks whether the configured size of the individual
segment has been calculated to a sufficient size. If the configured size is too small, the system
automatically adapts the segment to the minimum size.

Backing up archived messages

The data of the message archives can be stored in a backup.

See also
How to Link an Archive Backup (Page1002)
How to Configure the Archive Backup (Page1000)
How to Configure a Message Archive (Page998)
How to Configure Messages for Archiving (Page997)

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5.5.2.2

How to Configure Messages for Archiving

Introduction
You can select the messages to be archived from all configured messages.
Note
A newly created message in WinCC is archived by default. In principle, you need only carry
out the procedure described below for messages whose archiving status has been modified.

Requirement
The message system is configured. For additional information on how to configure the
message system, please refer to the online help for Alarm Logging.

Procedure
1. Open Alarm Logging.
2. Select the message you wish to archive in the Alarm Logging message list.
3. From the shortcut menu, select the "Properties" command.
4. In the Properties dialog for the message, select the "This message will be archived" check
box.

5. Click "OK" to confirm your entry.

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See also
How to Configure the Archive Backup (Page1000)
How to Configure a Message Archive (Page998)
Configuration of Message Archiving (Page995)

5.5.2.3

How to Configure a Message Archive

Introduction
You have the option to configure the message archive in Alarm Logging.
Note
Make sure that the archive size does not exceed the free memory space available. The
archive manager does not check the selected settings for plausibility. A high number of linked
database segments can lead to longer waiting periods in the system when starting and ending
Runtime.

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Procedure
1. Open Alarm Logging and select "Archive Configuration" in the Alarm Logging navigation
window.
2. Select the "Message Archive" and then select the "Properties" command from the shortcut
menu.
The "AlarmLogging" dialog is opened.

3. Make the following settings for the archive:

Time period of all segments and their maximum size. This specification defines the size
of the archive database. If one of the criteria is violated, a new segment is started and
the oldest segment is deleted.
The time period in which messages are to be archived in an individual segment and its
maximum size. If either of these criteria is violated, a new individual segment is started.
When the criterion for "Time period of all segments" is violated, the oldest individual
segment is also deleted.
4. In the "Time of the segment change", field enter the start date and the start time for the first
segment change.
When a new individual segment begins, the configuration of "Time of the segment change"
is taken into account.
5. Click "OK" to confirm your entry.

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Note
If you modify the archiving size (time range) in Runtime, such a modification will take effect
with the next segment change.

Example:
In the above screen shot, the segment changes for the first time on January 17 at 23:59. The
next time-related segment change occurs at the configured time in the cycle defined in "Time
period covered by a single segment". With the above cycle settings "1 day", the change is
made every day at 23:59. If the cycle is set to "1 month", the segment change takes place on
the 17th day of the next month at 23:59.
The segment is also changed, if the configured size is violated after Runtime start ("Max. size
of all segments"). In this case, the oldest individual segment is also deleted.
NOTICE
After selecting the "Reset" command in the Archive Configuration shortcut menu, the Runtime
data is deleted from the archives.

See also
How to Configure the Archive Backup (Page1000)
How to Configure Messages for Archiving (Page997)
Configuration of Message Archiving (Page995)

5.5.2.4

How to Configure the Archive Backup

General procedure
Create regular backups of your archive data to ensure seamless documentation of your
process.
Note
The backup normally starts 15 minutes after the first time-related segment change. If the start
of backup and start of segment should be synchronous with the start of Runtime, define the
start time for the segment change prior to the start of Runtime.
You can change the displayed message in Runtime using Alarm Control. If the location of
the archive segment where the message is stored has already been changed, then the
modified comment is not accepted in the swapped-out archive. The change is limited to the
local archive segment.
If the archive segment has not yet been swapped out, then the changed comment is accepted
permanently.

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Procedure
1. Open Alarm Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the Alarm Logging navigation window, select the "Archive Configuration" option. In the
data window, select "Message Archive" and then select the "Properties" command from
the shortcut menu. The "AlarmLogging" dialog is opened.
3. Select the "Backup Configuration" tab.

4. Select the "Signing off activated" check box, if the swapped archive data are to receive a
signature. Upon reconnection with WinCC, the signature allows the system to determine
whether any modifications have been made to the archive backup file after its swap-out.
5. Select the "Activate Backup" check box, if the archived data are to be backed up. In addition,
select the "Backup to both paths" check box, if the archived data are to be saved in both
directories, "Destination path" and "Alternative destination path".
6. Enter the destination path in which the backup files are to be stored. Network paths are
also valid as destination paths. The "Alternative destination path" is used if:
- The memory space of a backup medium is occupied.
- The original destination path does not exist, for example due to network failure.
After the corresponding system messages have been configured, the messages are output
if the specified destination path is not available.
7. Click "OK" to confirm your entry.

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Result
The archive backup is stored in the specified destination path.

Structure of the Archive Backup File

An archive backup consists of two files, with the extensions LDF and MDF. To transfer an
archive backup, for example to another computer, copy the corresponding LDF and MDF files.
The file name is as follows:
"<Computer_name>_<Project_name>_<Type>_<Time_from>_<Time_to>". The type
identification of the message archive is "ALG". The time period is specified in format
yyyymmddhhmm, for example 200212021118 for December 2, 2002, 11:18 hours.
Underscores ("_") in the project name are displayed as "#".

Signing Off of Archive Backup Files

Upon activated signing off and activated backup, each archive backup file is signed off upon
swapping out. It is thus possible to determine upon reconnection of the file with WinCC whether
or not the file has been changed after swapping.
The "Signing off activated" check box must be selected to verify the data.
If you use archive signing-off, the maximum size of a single segment may not exceed 200 MB.

See also
How to Link an Archive Backup (Page1002)
How to Configure a Message Archive (Page998)
How to Configure Messages for Archiving (Page997)
Configuration of Message Archiving (Page995)

5.5.2.5

How to Link an Archive Backup

Introduction
To access data in an archive backup during Runtime, link the associated database files to the
project. You have the option to manually establish a link to an archive in the Alarm Logging
Editor or to let the system establish a connection automatically. The archived messages are
displayed in the message display in Runtime.

Requirement
The corresponding LDF file and MDF file of the archive backup are stored in a local directory
on the configuration computer, such as hard disk, MOD, or CD. The project is loaded on the
configuring computer and is in Runtime.

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Note
The messages are only displayed in Runtime if the time window in the message display has
been configured accordingly. Example: You have configured a time window to display only
the messages of the past 24 hours. If you link up to an archive backup containing messages
that are older than 24 hours, these messages are not included in the message display.

Linking to the Archive Using the Alarm Logging Editor

1. Open the Alarm Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the navigation window of Alarm Logging, select "Archive Configuration". In the data
window, right-click "Message Archive" and select "Link Archive" from the shortcut menu.
3. Select the desired database file and click "Open". After selecting the file, the message
archive is linked to the project.
If signing off is activated and you link a modified or unsigned archive backup file to the project,
you must acknowledge the link to these files, as the archive backup files are otherwise not
linked. A WinCC system message is generated and an entry is added to the Windows event
log in the "Application" section.

Automatic Linking to an Archive

1. Add the archive backup files to the "ProjectName\CommonArchiving" directory.
2. In Runtime, the message archive is automatically linked to the project.
If signing off has been activated, modified signed-off archive backup files are not automatically
linked. A WinCC system message is generated and an entry is added to the Windows event
log in the "Application" section.

Linking an Archive Using a Script

Using the "AlarmLogs" VBS object, you can link the archive backup files to the WinCC project
using a script. The archive segments are then copied with the "Restore method" to the common
archiving directory of the Runtime project. For more information, refer to chapters "AlarmLogs
VBS Object" and "VBS Method 'Restore'".

See also
How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime (Page1005)
How to Configure the Archive Backup (Page1000)
How to Disconnect an Archive Backup (Page1004)

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5.5.2.6

How to Disconnect an Archive Backup

Introduction
If you no longer wish to access the data in an archive backup during Runtime, disconnect the
associated database files from the project.

Requirements
Archive backup files are linked. The project is loaded on the configuring computer and is in
Runtime.

Procedure
1. Open the Alarm Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the navigation window of Alarm Logging, select "Archive Configuration". Right-click
"Message Archive" in the data window and select "Disconnect from archive" from the
shortcut menu.
3. Select the desired archive file and click "OK".
The link to the archive file is disconnected. Access is no longer possible to the archived
messages in Runtime.
Automatically linked archives must be removed from the "Project name" directory. This can be
done manually or by using a script in "AlarmLogs" VBS object.

See also
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)
How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime (Page1005)
How to Configure the Archive Backup (Page1000)
How to Link an Archive Backup (Page1002)

5.5.3

Output of Message Archive Data

5.5.3.1

Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime

General procedure
Messages stored in message archives can be output in Runtime in the following ways:
Display the archived messages in a message window; in the event of a power failure, the
messages queued for loading from the archive to the message system are loaded with the
correct time stamp (reloading after power failure).
Prin archive report.

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Access to message archive database via OLE-DB for output of archived messages.
Access via ODK.
Access by means of suitable client applications.

See also
Direct Access to the Archive Database (Page1010)
How to Configure a Message Archive Report (Page1008)
How to Configure Reloading of Messages Following a Power Failure (Page1007)
How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime (Page1005)

5.5.3.2

How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime

Introduction
In Runtime, use the WinCC Alarm Control to display current messages and call up messages
from the archive. You have the option to display archive messages in a short-term archive list
or long-term archive list. The short-term archive list also contains current messages.

Requirement
All archived data displayed in Runtime must be stored locally on the archive server. The SQL
server does not permit access to backup files held elsewhere, for example on another computer
in the network.
For additional information on this topic, refer to chapter "Message Server" in this
documentation.

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Procedure
The following procedure describes just the principle steps for the display of archived messages
in Runtime. For detailed instructions on the configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control, refer to
the online help, chapter "Message System Structure / Display of Messages in Runtime".
1. Insert a WinCC AlarmControl into the desired picture in the Graphics Designer.
2. Double-click the control to open the "WinCC AlarmControl Properties" dialog.

3. In the "General" tab, select which list will be shown when the picture opens in the
"Properties" area. To display archived messages, select "Short-term archive list" or "Longterm archive list".

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4. If you want to only display messages from a certain server in a distributed system,
deactivate the "All servers" checkbox. Click on

to select a server. Confirm with "OK".

5. Go to the "Toolbar" tab. Activate the "Display toolbar" check box. Select at least button
function "Short-term archive list" or "Long-term archive list". Confirm with "OK".
Note
When displaying messages in the short-term archive list, the system immediately updates
new incoming messages. This is not the case when the long-term archive list is selected.
In the short-term archive list, you cannot enter or view comments. This is only possible in
the long-term archive list.

Results
In Runtime, click
or
to display messages from the archive in the message list. You
can also filter the messages from the archive, for example to display messages of the "Fault"
type only or to view messages from particular plant sections.

See also
Direct Access to the Archive Database (Page1010)
How to Configure a Message Archive Report (Page1008)
How to Configure Reloading of Messages Following a Power Failure (Page1007)
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)

5.5.3.3

How to Configure Reloading of Messages Following a Power Failure

General procedure
To display the most recent messages in Runtime following a power failure, configure the
"Reload after power failure" function in the Alarm Logging. In the event of a power failure, a
user-defined number of messages is read from the message archive to reconstruct the most
recent process image.

Procedure
1. Open the "Archive Configuration" group in the Alarm Logging navigation window.
2. Select "Message Archive" and then select the "Reload after power failure" command from
the shortcut menu.

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3. In the "Message Archive" dialog, enter the number of messages to be reloaded after a
power failure. In the following example, the last 60 messages are displayed again after a
power failure:

4. Select the "Reload Message List After Power Failure" check box so that the message list
is reloaded in Runtime after the system has rebooted.
5. Click "OK" to confirm your entry.

See also
Direct Access to the Archive Database (Page1010)
How to Configure a Message Archive Report (Page1008)
How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime (Page1005)
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)

5.5.3.4

How to Configure a Message Archive Report

Introduction
You can print the archived messages. You configure the log for the message archive in the
Report Designer.

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Overview
WinCC provides you with a pre-configured system layout for the log, which you can adjust to
suit your specific needs. You can also create your own log layouts. You have three alternatives
to configure the layout for a message archive:
Configuration with the layout of the "WinCC Control Runtime Print Provider". The layouts
are available with WinCC V7 and higher. The message archive list is either printed out in
table format with all messages or the current display of the message archive list in
AlarmControl is printed out. The output of the archive log is only possible via the WinCC
AlarmControl with the button "Print current view".
Configuration with the layout "WinCC Alarm Control". You initiate the print job with the "Print
current view" button in the WinCC Alarm Control. You can initiate the output of the archive
log outside the Alarm Control as well.
Configuration with the layout "Alarm Logging RT". You initiate the print job outside the Alarm
Control.

Configuration with the layout of the "WinCC Control Runtime Print Provider"
1. Open the Report Designer in the WinCC Explorer. Either open the layout "@Alarm Control
- Table.RPL" for a table print-out or the layout "@Alarm Control - Picture.RPL" for printing
the current display.
2. Double click on "WinCC Control Runtime Print Provider.Table" or "WinCC Control Runtime
Print Provider.Picture" in the open layout. The "Object properties" dialog opens.
3. Configure the layout of the table in the "Properties" tab.
4. Save the configuration in the Report Designer.
5. The layouts of the "WinCC Control Runtime Print Provider" are connected with the
respective print jobs "@Report Alarm Control - Table" or "@Report Alarm Control - Picture".
Select one of these print jobs in the "General" tab of the Graphics Designer in the picture
with the AlarmControl . If you click on the "Print current view" button in Runtime, the
messages are printed according to the configured layout.

Configuration with the layout "WinCC Alarm Control"

1. Open the Report Designer in the WinCC Explorer. then open the "@CCAlarmCtrl-CP.RPL"
layout.
2. Double click the table "WinCC Alarm Control.Table" in the open layout. The "Object
properties" dialog opens.
3. Configure the layout of the table in the "Properties" tab.
4. Change the output options for the WinCC Alarm Control. For more detailed information,
refer to
5. Save the configuration in the Report Designer.

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6. The layout "@CCAlarmCtrl-CP.RPL" is connected with the print job "@Report
AlarmControl-CP". Select this print job in the Graphics Designer in the picture with the
AlarmControl in the "General" tab. If you click on the "Print current view" button in Runtime,
the messages of the selected message list are printed out in a table.
7. You can also define a print job outside of the Alarm Control, for example by configuring a
cyclic log output. If all archiving data is to be logged, the output cycles are not to be shorter
than the configured archiving period. For more detailed information, refer to

Configuration with the layout "Alarm Logging RT"

1. Open the Report Designer in the WinCC Explorer. then open the
"@CCAlgRtSequenceArchive.RPL" layout.
2. Double click the table "Alarm Logging RT Archive Log" in the open layout. The "Object
properties" dialog opens.
3. Configure the layout of the table in the "Properties" tab.
4. Change the output options for the archive log. For more detailed information, refer to
5. Save the configuration in the Report Designer.
6. The layout "@CCAlgRtSequenceArchive.RPL" is connected with the print job "@Report
Alarm Logging RT Sequence archive New". Configure this print job to define the output of
the archive log. You can, for example, configure a cyclic log output. If all archiving data is
to be logged, the output cycles are not to be shorter than the configured archiving period.
For more detailed information, refer to

See also
Direct Access to the Archive Database (Page1010)
How to Configure Reloading of Messages Following a Power Failure (Page1007)
How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime (Page1005)
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)

5.5.3.5

Direct Access to the Archive Database

Introduction
Various providers offer interfaces that you can use to access databases. These interfaces also
enable you to directly access the WinCC archive databases. Direct access lets you read
process values, for example, for editing in spreadsheet programs.

Access to archive databases with ADO/OLE DB

The process values are partially saved in compressed format to the archive databases. Use
the WinCC OLE DB Provider to access such compressed process values. You can use the
Visual Basic or Visual C++ programming languages, for example.

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Note
Note that the table structure may vary in a new WinCC version when directly accessing the
archive database using ADO/OLE DB.
For additional information, refer to the Microsoft MSDN Library "Win32 and COM Development
> Data Access and Storage > Windows Data Access Components SDK" available on the
Internet at:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/default.aspx (http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/
library/default.aspx)

Access to the archive database using OPC

OPC (OLE for Process Control) provides interfaces for communication with process
automation systems. The OPC interface enables harmonized interconnection of devices and
applications from different manufacturers. You can use WinCC as an OPC client to access
process data or messages of an OPC server. WinCC can be used as OPC server to manage
archive data.
For additonal information, refer to:
"WinCC Information System", "Communication" > "OPC",
"WinCC Information System", "System Overview" > "Open Source"
On the Internet at "http://www.opcfoundation.org"

Access to the archive database using C-API/ODK

You can use the "WinCC Open Development Kit" option to access WinCC data and functions
by means of open source programming interfaces.
For additional information, refer to:
Documentation on the WinCC Open Development Kit

See also
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/default.aspx (http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/
default.aspx)
How to Configure a Message Archive Report (Page1008)
How to Configure Reloading of Messages Following a Power Failure (Page1007)
How to Display Archived Messages in Runtime (Page1005)
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)

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5.5.4

Message Server

Introduction
When using WinCC to configure a client/server system, you have the option to configure
different scenarios for message archiving.

Archiving on WinCC Servers

The messages are archived on every server (2) in a client/server system. All Runtime
applications including archiving run on each server. The clients (1) have access to the message
archives on the servers.

Use this configuration, if each server is dedicated to a certain section of the plant. Each server
thereby monitors a specific section of the plant, and manages its own messaging and archiving
system.

Archiving on archive servers without a process driver connection (server/server communication)

Archiving on a central archive server (3) on which the message archives (and process value
archives, if any) are stored. The only programs run on the archive server are the archiving
applications. The archive server receives the data to be archived from the servers (2). The

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clients (1) access the archive server (3) to display archived data. All other Runtime data is
provided by the servers (2):

Note
This configuration cannot be implemented for message archives in a PCS7 environment, as
messages are generated separately on each server and cannot be brought together on a
single server.
For additional information, refer to the WinCC documentation "Client/Server Systems" and
"Redundancy".

See also
Output of Message Archive Data in Runtime (Page1004)
Configuration of Message Archiving (Page995)
Message Archiving in WinCC (Page994)

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5.6

Display of Messages during Runtime

5.6

Resources

5.6.1

WinCC AlarmControl

Introduction
WinCC AlarmControl is an alarm window used to display message events. All messages are
displayed in a separate message line. The content of the message line depends on the
message blocks to be displayed.

Lists in the message window

You have the option of viewing six different lists in the message window:
Message list to view currently activated messages.
Short-term archive list, to view archived messages. The display is updated immediately
after activation of new messages.
Long-term archive list, to view archived messages.
Lock list, to view currently locked messages.
Hitlist, to view statistics data.
List of messages to be hidden, to view hidden archived messages.
The figure below shows an example of a message list:

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Note
A message is shown with a crossed-out date and time stamp in the message list if any of the
following events are triggered:
A locked message is released again.
A message is reloaded after power failure. This applies only to correct chronological
messaging.
The AS is restarted. This applies only to correct chronological messaging.

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

5.6.2

Configuring the AlarmControl

5.6.2.1

How to configure the AlarmControl

Introduction
The messages are displayed in a message window in runtime. You can configure a
corresponding WinCC AlarmControl in Graphics Designer.

Prerequisite
A message system has been set up using the "Alarm Logging" editor.
You configured the necessary message blocks, message classes and the message types
according to requirements configured in "Alarm logging".
You configured the necessary single and group messages and their properties in "Alarm
logging".

Configuration steps
1. Insert the AlarmControl into a picture of Graphic Designer.
2. Configure the basic properties of the AlarmControl in the "General" tab.
The message window properties
The general properties of the control
The time base of the control
The default sorting order in the table
Properties of the long-term archive list
The action to be triggered by double-clicking in the message line

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3. Configure the content of the message lines in the message window. The content of the
message line depends on the configuration of the message blocks. Go to the "Message
blocks" tab.
4. Select the "Message lists" tab to define the message blocks to be shown as columns in the
message window. Use the selection dialog to define the messages to be displayed in the
message window.
5. Configure the layout and properties of the message window in the "Parameter", "Display"
and "Marker" tabs.
6. Configure the toolbar and the status bar of the message window.
7. Configure a hitlist if you want to view message statistics.
8. Configure the display for the operator input messages to adapt these as required.
9. Save your configuration data.

5.6.2.2

How to configure the message blocks

Introduction
The message content to be displayed in the message line depends on the message blocks
configured. The message blocks configured in the "Alarm logging" editor can be applied without
changes, or be configured in AlarmControl.

Prerequisite
You created a message system using the "Alarm Logging" editor.
In "Alarm logging", you configured the message blocks to be used in the message line.

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Configuring existing message blocks

1. Go to the "Message blocks" tab in AlarmControl. All of the message blocks configured in
the "Alarm logging" editor are listed in "Available message blocks". The message blocks
for the hitlist are also listed.

2. If the "Apply project settings" option is activated, the message blocks and their properties
you configured in "Alarm logging" are activated in the AlarmControl. The message blocks
are displayed with these properties in the message window and can only be changed by
means of the Alarm logging. The message blocks of the hitlist depend on "Alarm logging".
You can configure these message blocks as required.
3. Deactivate the "Apply project settings" option to let you add or remove message blocks for
the message lists, or to configure message block properties. The changed properties are
stored in the picture. Changes to properties made in "Alarm logging" are ignored in this
control.
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4. Activate the check box next to the name of a message block to be used in the message
window in the "Available message blocks" list.
5. A selected message block can be set as criteria in the selection dialog by activating the
"Use selection dialog" option for this message block.

Message block names

1. You can assign the message blocks custom names for the column header in the message
window. Remove the text ID and enter a name in the "Name" field. The name is saved to
the picture in the currently active language.
2. Use a corresponding entry from the text library for multi-lingual functions and for the
message block names in all pictures. Enter an existing text ID from the text library in the
"Text ID" field. The text ID stored in the text library is entered in the "Name" field.

Displaying message blocks

1. Resize the message block width in the message window as required. Enter a value in the
"Length in chars" field.
2. Certain message blocks can also visualize the content and column of the message window
by means of an icon. The content of message block "State" in the message lists, for
example, can be visualized by means of "activated", "activated/deactivated" and "activated/
acknowledged" icons in the "Display" field. The text and icons can be displayed in parallel.
3. You can format certain message blocks. Select the message block from the "Available
message blocks" list. Define the format in the "Format" field.
4. Save the configuration.

5.6.2.3

How to define the content of the message window

Introduction
All messages are displayed in a separate message line in the message windows. The content
of the message window is determined by the message blocks and messages selected.

Requirement
You created a message system using the "Alarm Logging" editor.
You configured the message blocks to be used in the message line.

Determine the message blocks to be displayed in the message lists.

Define the message window content on the "Message lists" tab.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Message lists" tab.

2. Select the "Available message blocks" list and select the configured message blocks to be
displayed in the message lists. Use the arrow buttons to move these message blocks to
the "Selected message blocks" list. Using the arrow keys you can cut selected message
blocks from the message lists and paste these to the "Available message blocks" list.
3. You can define the sorting order of selected message blocks in the message lists and move
these using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. Save the configuration.

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Selecting messages to be displayed in the message lists

Use a selection dialog to select the message to be displayed in the message lists. You can
configure one permanent and several custom selections.
The configured fixed selection is always used in Runtime. The custom selections configured
are only used in Runtime if activated.
You can also import custom selections. The import is used, for example, to reuse selection in
the project made by the user or to compare selections of clients. The imported selection
replaces the existing selection in this case. Importing selections does not require an export.
Any activated custom selection used is logically linked with the fixed selection you are using
by means of "AND" operation.

Procedure
1. Click "Edit..." in the "Selection" area to create or edit custom selections. The selection dialog
is opened.
2. Click on "New..." to create a selection or import a selection. Activate the new or existing
selections. For further information on the selection of messages, refer to .
3. Click "OK" to close the selection dialog. The activated selections are included in the
message window at the start of Runtime.
4. Click on "Edit..." in the "Fixed selection" area to create or edit a fixed selection. The selection
dialog is opened.
5. Select the message blocks. Enter one operand and a text or value in the "Setting" column,
depending on the message block, or select an option.
6. Press "OK" to save the fixed selection and close the selection dialog. The fixed selection
is included in the message window at the start of Runtime.

Configuring the sorting order of messages

You configure the sorting order of the columns in the message lists in the "Sorting" field. You
can also define sorting criteria using the toolbar in Runtime. Disable the "Auto-Scrolling" option
to activate the configured sorting order in Runtime. Only the default sorting order is available
if "Auto-Scrolling" is activated.

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Procedure
1. Click "Edit...". The sorting dialog opens.

2. Define a sorting order. For further information on the sorting of messages, refer to .
3. Click "OK" to close the sorting dialog.
Note
You can change the default sorting order by "date/time/number" to "message block/date/
time/number". Configure the "DefaultSort2Column" and "DefaultSort2" object properties
accordingly. Define a message block and its object name in the "DefaultSort2Column"
object property. Define the ascending or the descending sorting order in the "DefaultSort2"
object property.

5.6.2.4

How to configure the display for the table

How to configure the properties of the table elements

Introduction
You can adjust the properties of the table elements in the WinCC controls to suit requirements.

Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Parameters" tab.

2. Specify the properties for of

Column header
Line labeling
Sorting
Table content
3. Save the configuration.

How to configure the colors of the table elements

Introduction
You can adjust the colors of the table elements in the WinCC controls to suit requirements.

Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Display" tab.

2. Define the colors for the background or text here for:

Table content. You can define different colors for even and odd line numbers to improve
differentiation between both.
Contents of the table header
Separating lines in the table and for table headers
3. Define the color and the line weight in the "General" area in terms of:
Control borders
Window dividers for control elements
4. Save the configuration.

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How to configure the marking of the selected cells and lines

Introduction
You can customize the marking of the selected cells and rows in the WinCC control to suit
requirements.

Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

Procedure
1. Go to the "Marker" tab.

2. Define whether to select rows or only cells using the mouse.

3. Configure the properties of the selection rectangle that can be displayed around selected
table cells or rows.
4. Configure the marking color for selectable cells and/or rows. The system colors are used
for marking with "Automatic coloring" property.
5. Save the configuration.

How to configure sorting via the column heading

Introduction
You can adjust the sorting order by means of table column header in the WinCC controls to
suit requirements.

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Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

Procedure
1. Go to the "Parameters" tab.

2. Define whether to enable sorting and the sorting method by column header. In WinCC
AlarmControl, you can only sort by column header if the "Auto-Scrolling" is disabled. You
can deactivate "Auto-Scrolling" either in the "General" tab, or using the "Autoscroll" toolbar
icon of the WinCC AlarmControl.
3. Determine the sorting order by mouse click on the column header. Select ascending,
descending or no sorting order.
4. Configure the sorting icon and index to be displayed in the column header with right
justification. These show the sorting order and sequence of the columns.
5. Activate the "Use sorting button" to display the sorting icon as sorting button above the
vertical scroll bar. Click this sorting button to activate a configured sorting order for the
column selected. The sort button is not displayed if a vertical scroll bar is missing.
6. Save the configuration.

5.6.2.5

How to configure the toolbar and the status bar

Introduction
The WinCC controls are operated at runtime using the functions of the toolbar buttons. The
status bar contains information pertaining to the current status of the WinCC control. You can
adapt the toolbar and the status bar for all WinCC controls when configuring, or at runtime.

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Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The WinCC control is assigned the "Configuration dialog" button function for opening the
configuration dialog in Runtime.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

How to configure the toolbar

1. Go to the "Toolbar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. In the list, activate the button functions you require for operating the WinCC control in
Runtime. For information on the button functions, refer to the description of the
corresponding WinCC control at "Operation in runtime".

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3. Determine the sorting order for displaying the button functions in the toolbar. Select the
button functions from the list and the move the functions using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. Define a hotkey for the functions of the toolbar buttons.
5. Any button functions assigned operator authorizations are only available in Runtime to
authorized users.
6. An activated button function is displayed in runtime if you deactivate its "Active" option,
however, it cannot be operated.
7. You can set separators between the button functions. Activate the "Separator" option for
the button function to be restricted by separator.
8. Configure the general properties of the toolbar, e.g. alignment or background color.

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How to configure the status bar

1. Go to the "Status bar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. Activate the elements required in runtime in the list of status bar elements. For further
information on status bar elements, refer to the descriptions of the corresponding WinCC
control at "Operation in runtime".
3. Determine the sorting order for displaying of the status bar elements. Select the elements
from the list and move these using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. To resize the width of a status bar element, deactivate the "Automatic" option and enter a
pixel value for the width.
5. Configure the general properties of the status bar, e.g. alignment or background color.

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5.6.2.6

How to Configure a Hit List of Messages

Introduction
The hit list displays statistic calculations for archived messages in the message window. In
addition to statistics, the hit list can display configured message blocks. The message blocks
display the data of the message most recently activated if contents are variable.

Overview
Customize the hit list columns which consist of message blocks and statistics data.
The following statistic calculations are available for messages:
Frequency of a message number. The frequency is only increased if the archive contains
a message with "activated" state. If the frequency of a message number in the selected
message range is "0", an entry does not exist for this message number in statistics data.
The cumulative duration of a message number for the status:
"activated/activated" (Message block: Sum +/+)
"activated/deactivated" (Message block: Sum +/-)
"activated/initial acknowledgment" (message block: Sum +/*1)
"activated/second acknowledgment" (message block: Sum +/*2).
The average duration of a message number for the states:
"activated/activated" (Message block: average +/+),
"activated/deactivated" (Message block: Average +/-),
"activated/initial acknowledgment" (message block: average +/*1)
"activated/second acknowledgment" (message block: average +/*2).
Only the "Acknowledgment", "System Acknowledgment" and "Emergency Acknowledgment"
states are included in the statistics calculation of acknowledgment times.
Note
Messages with "Acknowledgment", "System acknowledgment", "Emergency
Acknowledgment" and "Deactivated" state are only included in the calculation of statistic data
if the events available for statistics calculation includes a corresponding, previous message
with "activated" state.

If only one acknowledgment is triggered for a message with initial or second acknowledgment,
the acknowledgment time is included in the calculation of the cumulative and average duration
of the "activated/initial Acknowledgment" and "activated/second Acknowledgment"
states.

The message is only entered several times in the archive with "activated" state and included
several times in the calculation if runtime was stopped/restarted several times and a message
was active within this time, for example, due to the external discrete message procedures or
chronological messaging.

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Requirement
You opened a picture which contains the AlarmControl in Graphics Designer.
You configured the message blocks to be included in the hit list.
You activated the "Hit List" button function on the "Toolbar" tab of the AlarmControl.

Procedure
1. Go to the "Hit list" tab.

2. Select the message blocks to be displayed in the hit list from the list of available message
blocks. Use the arrow buttons to move these message blocks to the "Selected message
blocks" list. You can cut message blocks from the hit list and paste these to the "Available
message blocks" list using the arrow keys.

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3. You can define the sorting order of message blocks in the hit list by selecting and then
moving these using the "Up" or "Down" buttons.
4. Specify the criteria to be used for displaying messages in the hit list, such as a specific
message class or a specific time range in the "Selection" area of the tab. All times are
included in the calculation of average values if you have not specified a time range. Note
that a long-range selection can adversely affect performance. Click the "Edit..." button to
configure a selection or import it. The imported selection replaces the existing selection in
this case. Importing selections does not require an export. You can also define selection
criteria for the hit list in runtime using the "Selection dialog" button. For further information
on the selection of messages, refer to "How to select messages".
5. Define the sorting criteria for the hit list columns in the "Sorting" area of the tab, for example,
first descending by date and then ascending by message number. Click the "Edit..." button
to configure a sorting order. You can also define the sorting criteria for the hit list in runtime
by means of the "Sort dialog" button.
6. In the lower portion of the tab, define the settings in terms of quantity and time limits for the
creation of statistics data.
7. Save the configuration.

Results
The hit list is configured for display in the message window. Call the hit list at runtime by clicking
in the toolbar.
The values in the hit list are sorted by frequency in descending order if you have not set any
sorting criteria.
New activated messages are not automatically included in the hit list. To include them, you
must reselect the hit list.

5.6.2.7

How to configure operator messages

Introduction
Operation of a message can trigger an operator message. Operator messages can be
triggered at the following events:
Lock message
Enable message
Acknowledge message
Hide message
Show message
Configure operator messages in WinCC AlarmControl:
If you want to use and adapt the default operator messages of WinCC
If you want to use custom operator messages

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Prerequisite
You defined the WinCC system messages in the "Alarm logging" editor.
In the "Alarm logging" editor, you configured the messages editor to be used as operator
messages in WinCC Alarm control.
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC AlarmControl.
The configuration dialog of the AlarmControl is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Operator messages" tab.

2. In the list, activate "Operator input message for:" the events which trigger operator
messages.
3. If not using the operator messages from WinCC, enter the message number of the
configured message for every event.
4. Assign the message blocks of the operated message to the process value blocks of the
operator message. The message blocks must be selected in the "Message Blocks" tab.
5. Define whether to transfer the content as text or value for further value-based processing.

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Example
An operator message is to be generated on locking a message. The content of "User text block
1" of the locked message, e.g. "Motor faulty", is to be displayed in "Process value block 1" of
the operator message. This requires that you select "1" under process value as the message
block of operated message "User text block 1".
Note
It is recommend to use message class "System, without acknowledgment" for all operator
messages. Always use message classes that are configured as "without deactivated status".
Note
Operator messages can only be logged if corresponding system messages are set up in the
message archive.

Operator message triggering upon locking and unlocking a message

Operator messages triggered by locking and unlocking messages are always assigned
a time stamp
name of the logged on user
the computer name in the message archive of the alarm server concerned
The time stamp for the message is derived from:
the message source (e.g., AS), in the case of active locking and unlocking
the alarm server (OS), in the case of passive locking and unlocking
Actively locked messages are visible and operable on all WinCC servers and clients.

Results
The contents of operated messages are displayed in the updated process value blocks of the
operator message. The process value blocks must have been selected in the "Message Lists"
tab to enable the display of process value blocks of the operator message. The hitlist displays
statistic data of the operator messages.

5.6.2.8

How to export runtime data

Introduction
The runtime data shown in the WinCC controls can be exported using a button function. Set
up operation of the data export in runtime in the configuration dialog.

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Requirements
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

How to configure the operation of the data export

1. Go to the "Export" tab.

2. A standard file name and a standard directory are already entered in the "Data export default
settings." In this case for AlarmControl. If necessary, define a file name and a directory for
the export file.
3.

CSV is currently available as data format. Click on

file.

to define the separator in the CSV

4. Define the scope of the data export:

All runtime data is exported
Selected runtime data is exported. This data export is only possible in WinCC controls
with tabular display.
5. Configure the operation of the data export in runtime. Define:
whether users are allowed to rename the file, or change the directory.
whether to display the "Data export default settings" dialog in Runtime.
6. If "Display dialog" is deactivated, the data for operation of the "Export data" button function
is immediately exported to the defined export file.
7. Save the configuration.
8. Go to the "Toolbar" tab to activate the "Export data" button function for runtime.

Results
You can export all or selected data to a defined file at runtime using button function

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5.6.2.9

How to define the effect of the online configuration

Introduction
Users can parameterize the WinCC controls in Runtime. You must define the runtime effects
of the online configuration.
Changes configured at runtime are saved to a separate picture in the configuration system.
The original picture configuration is retained in the configuration system.

Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Online configuration" tab. For example, in OnlineTrendControl:

2. The option buttons of the "Online configuration" field for setting online configuration defaults
are only available in the configuration system. The option buttons are not available in
runtime.
Select one of the three effects of the online configuration:
"Do not retain". The online configurations are not retained in Runtime. This default
setting disables all options for runtime users. Online configurations are lost at the next
picture change and on activation/deactivation of the project.
"Retain during runtime". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change

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if the "retain" option is enabled, however, these are lost on activation/deactivation of the
project.
"Retain permanently". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change
and on activation/deactivation of the project if the "retain" option is enabled.
3. Define corresponding user authorizations for online configuration.
4. The option buttons of the "Online configuration on next picture change" can be enabled for
operation in the configuration system and at runtime by setting the "retain at runtime" and
"retain permanently" defaults. The "reset" operation is only available in runtime, because
the configuration system contains the original configuration.
Select one of three effects of the online configuration at the next picture change:
Select "discard" if to discard the online configuration at the next picture change.
Activate "retain" to activate the online configuration based on default settings at the next
picture change or on activation/deactivation of the project.
Activate "reset" to activate a picture which is older than the version stored in the
configuration system for runtime. All online changes are lost.
Note
The picture is also replaced at runtime if you save it in Graphics Designer, or when
loading deltas in online mode. All online changes are lost.
5. Save the configuration.
Note
The different configurations are only activated for new users after you performed a picture
change.

5.6.2.10

SQL statements for filtering messages in AlarmControl

Introduction
WinCC AlarmControl only supports SQL statements which can also be generated using the
selection dialog of the message window. The following conditions are valid for WinCC:
The syntax consists of the "field", "operand", and "value", with parameters separated by
space characters. For example: DATETIME >= '2007-12-21 00:00:00' AND MSGNR >=
100 (as of 2007-12-21, all messages with message number greater than and equal to 100)
Strings, date, and time must be passed in single quotation marks.
The date and time in the DATETIME argument must be separated by a space character.
The output of DATETIME is based on the "Local Time", regardless of any other time base
setting in the object properties. Exception: UTC is set as the time base: in this case, the
output is based on the "UTC" time base.

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Valid arguments
Name

SQL name

Type

Data

Example

Date/time

DATETIME

Date

'YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm:ss.ms'

DATETIME >= '2007-12-03

16:00:00.000'
Outputs messages as of 12/03/2007,
16.00 hours.

Number

MSGNR

Integer

Message number

MSGNR >= 10 AND MSGNR <= 12

Outputs messages with message
numbers 10-12.

Class

Class

Integer

Message class ID 1-16 and

system message classes 17+18

Class = 1
Outputs messages of message class1.
Class IN ( 1,2 )
Outputs messages of message class1
and message class2.

Type

State

Computer name

Type

State

ComputerName

Integer

Integer

Text

Message type ID 1-256 and

system message types 257, 258,
273, 274

Type = 1
Outputs messages of message type1.

Valid values:
1 = activated messages
2 = deactivated messages
3 = acknowledged
messages
4 = blocked messages
10 = hidden messages
11 = displayed messages
16 = messages acknowledged by
the system
17 = Emergency-acknowledged
messages
18 = ackn. central signaling
devices

State = 1

Type IN (1,2,3 )
Outputs messages of message type1
and message type2
State IN(1,2,3,16,17)

Search text for the computer name Computer name LIKE 'PC1234'
Outputs messages whose computer
name corresponds to "PC1234".
Computer name LIKE '%C12%'
Outputs messages whose computer
name corresponds to "C12".

User name

UserName

Text

Search text for the user name

User name LIKE 'User123'

Outputs the messages whose user
name corresponds to "User123".
User name LIKE '%er12%'
Outputs messages whose user name
corresponds to "er12".

Priority

Priority

Integer

Message priority 0-16

Priority >= 1 AND Priority =< 5

Outputs messages with priority 1 to 5.

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Type

Data

Example

AS number (AS/ AGNR

CPU number)

Name

SQL name

Integer

AS Number

AGNR >= 2 AND AGNR <= 2

CPU number
(AS/CPU
number)

CPU__NR

Integer

Instance

Instance

Text

Instance

Block: 1
...
Block: 10

Textxx

Text

Search text for block: 1 - Block: 10 Text2 LIKE 'Fault'

Outputs messages with the AS number

2.
AS subnumber

CPU__NR >= 5 AND CPU__NR <= 5

Outputs messages with AS subnumber
5.
Outputs message whose block: 2
corresponds to "Fault".
Text2 LIKE '%Fault%'
Outputs message whose block: 2
contains the "Fault" entry.

Process value:
1
...
Process value:
10

PValuexx

Double

Search value for process value: 1

- Process value: 10

PValue1 >= 0 AND PValue1 <= 50

Outputs messages with process value
between 0 and 50.

Valid operands
>=, <=, =, >, <
IN(...) : Several values as comma separated array, e.g.: Class IN(1, 2, 3) AND Type IN(1,
2,19, 20, 37,38)
LIKE : The message text must match the string. The message text must only contain the
string if this string is enclosed with "%" characters. The "LIKE" operand is only valid for
"Textxx" arguments.

Invalid arguments and operands

Only the arguments defined in the table and the operands from the list are valid.
Group arguments are invalid, e.g. by means of parenthesis.
Note
If using SQL statements of versions older than WinCC V7 in the new WinCC AlarmControl
V7, you possibly have to convert the operands and contents for "Textxx" arguments. Only
the "LIKE" operand is used for "Textxx" arguments.

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5.6.2.11

How to make the toolbar for the AlarmControl dynamic

Introduction
The default functions for operating the WinCC AlarmControl are no longer supported in the
new WinCC AlarmControl for WinCC V7.0 or higher. However, you can use the dynamic
methods of WinCC to operate the function of a toolbar button by means of script.

Overview
WinCC Controls V7.0 or higher no longer requires special functionality for operating the control
by means of dynamic toolbar. The default functions "AXC_OnBtn..." and "OnBtn..." used
previously are no longer supported.
If you do not want to operate the message window using the toolbar, you can set the "ID" of a
button to the "ToolbarButtonClick" object property using any dynamic mode.
Determine a toolbar button "ID":
using the table on page "Operation of the AlarmControl in Runtime".
by means of the "Object ID" field of the the "Toolbars" tab in the configuration dialog of the
AlarmControl.

Example: Open the control configuration dialog

The following options of assigning dynamic properties are available for opening the control
configuration dialog:
VBScript:
ScreenItems("Control1").ToolbarButtonClick = 2
As an alternative to the "ToolbarButtonClick" property, you can use the VBS methods
for operating the toolbar: ScreenItems("Control1").ShowPropertyDialog
Or, with the following notation and support of "Intellisense":
Dim obj
Set obj = ScreenItems("Control1")
obj.ShowPropertyDialog
C script:
SetPropWord(lpszPictureName, "Control1", "ToolbarButtonClick", 2);
Direct connection
Enter "2" as source constant in the direct connection dialog.
Select the "ToolButtonClick" property for the "Control1" object as the "Object in picture"
target.

See also
Operating the AlarmControl in runtime (Page1042)

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5.6.3

Operation during runtime

5.6.3.1

Operating the AlarmControl in runtime

Introduction
You operate the message window at runtime using the toolbar buttons. If you do not want to
operate the message window using the toolbar, you can set the "ID" of a button to the
"ToolbarButtonClick" object property using any dynamic mode.
Icon

Description

ID

"Help"

Calls the WinCC AlarmControl help.

"Configuration dialog"

Opens the configuration dialog for editing the properties of the AlarmControl.
"Message list"

Lists currently active messages.

"Short-term archive list"

Lists the archived messages of the short-term archive list.

"Long-term archive list"

Shows the messages saved to the long-term archive list.

"Lock list"

Shows all messages locked in the system.

"Hitlist"

Displays the message blocks and the statistic data you configured on the Hitlist tab
of the AlarmControl.
"List of messages to be hidden"

Shows all messages which were hidden automatically or manually in the message
list.
"Ackn. central signaling devices"

Acknowledges a visual or acoustic signal generator.

"Single acknowledgment"

10

Acknowledgment of a selected and visible single message. If using the multiple

selection, the selected messages which require single acknowledgment are not
acknowledged.
"Group acknowledgment"

11

Acknowledges all active, visible messages which require acknowledgment in the

message window, unless these require single acknowledgment. If you use the
multiple selection, all marked messages are acknowledged, even if the messages
are hidden.

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"Emergency acknowledgment"

18

Emergency acknowledgment of a message requiring acknowledgment. This

function transfers the acknowledgment signal of a selected single message directly
to the AS, even if this message is not activated.
Acknowledgment of inactive messages only refers to messages which were
configured in proper chronological order.
"Selection dialog"

13

Specifies the selection criteria for messages to be displayed in the message window.
The messages which do not meet these criteria are not displayed but are
nevertheless archived.
"Display options dialog"

14

Specifies the messages to be displayed in the message window.

If the "All Messages" option is activated, the message windows shows the hidden
as well as displayed messages.
If the "Shown messages only" option is activated, only shown messages are
displayed in the message window.
If the "Hidden messages only" option is activated, only hidden messages are
displayed in the message window.
"Lock dialog"

15

Defines the locking criteria. All messages that meet these criteria are neither
displayed, nor archived.
"Print"

17

Start printing of the messages of the selected list. Define the print job in the "General"
tab of the the configuration dialog.
"Export data"

35

Use this button to export all or selected runtime data to a CSV file. If the option
"Display dialog" is enabled, a dialog opens in which you can view the export settings
and start the export. You can select the export file and directory, provided you are
granted corresponding authorizations.
The data is exported immediately to the default file if this dialog is not displayed.
"Autoscroll"

12

If "Autoscroll" is activated, the last message in chronological order is selected in the

message window. The visible range of the message window is moved if necessary.
New messages are not selected if "Autoscroll" is disabled. The visible range of the
message window is not modified.
Messages can only be selected explicitly if "Autoscroll" is disabled.
"First message"

19

The first of the currently active messages is selected. The visible range of the
message window is moved if necessary. The button is only available if "Autoscroll"
is disabled.
"Previous message"

20

The message activated previously to the currently selected message is selected.

The visible range of the message window is moved if necessary. The button is only
available if "Autoscroll" is disabled.
"Next message"

21

The next message relative to the currently selected message is selected. The visible
range of the message window is moved if necessary. The button is only available if
"Autoscroll" is disabled.

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22

"Last message"
The last of the currently active messages is selected. The visible range of the
message window is moved if necessary. The button is only available if "Autoscroll"
is disabled.
"Infotext dialog"

23

Opens a dialog for viewing infotexts.

"Comments dialog"

24

Opens a text editor for entering comments

"Loop-in-alarm"

25

Shows a picture for the selected message or triggers a script.

"Lock message"

26

The selected message is locked in the message list and in the message archive list.
"Enable message"

27

Enables messages selected in the lock list.

"Hide message"

28

Hides the message you selected in the message list, or in short-term or long-term
archive list. The message is entered in the "List of messages to be hidden".
'Unhide messages"

29

Reactivates the display of messages you selected in the "List of messages to be

hidden" in the message list, or in the short-term or long-term archive list. The
message is removed from the "List of messages to be hidden".
"Sort dialog"

30

Opens a dialog for setting custom sorting criteria for displayed messages.
A custom sorting order has higher priority than the sorting order set at attribute
"MsgCtrlFlags".
"Time base dialog"

31

Opens a dialog for setting the time base for times displayed in the messages.
"Copy rows"

32

Copies the selected messages. You can paste the copy to the table editor or text
editor.
"Connect backup"

33

Use this button to open a dialog for interconnecting selected backup files with WinCC
Runtime.
"Disconnect backup"

34

Use this button to open a dialog for disconnecting selected backup files from WinCC
Runtime.
"First page"

36

Returns you to the first page of the long-term archive list. The button is only available
if paging is enabled in the long-term archive list. You can activate this setting in the
"General" tab of the configuration dialog.
"Previous page"

37

Returns you to the previous page of the long-term archive list. The button is only
available if paging is enabled in the long-term archive list. You can activate this
setting in the "General" tab of the configuration dialog.

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"Next page"

38

Opens the next page of the long-term archive list. The button is only available if
paging is enabled in the long-term archive list. You can activate this setting in the
"General" tab of the configuration dialog.
"Last page"

39

Opens the last page of the long-term archive list. The button is only available if
paging is enabled in the long-term archive list. You can activate this setting in the
"General" tab of the configuration dialog.
"User-defined 1"

1001

Shows the first button function created by the user. The button function is userdefined.

Available status bar elements

The following elements can be output to the status bar of the message window:

Icon

Name

Description

Pending messages

Shows the number of current messages in the message list.

Pending
acknowledgeable
messages

Shows the number of pending messages requiring

acknowledgment.

Number of pending
hidden messages

Shows the number of pending messages that are hidden.

Messages in the list

Shows the number of messages in the current message

window. The count includes messages hidden in the
message list.

Selection

A message selection exists.

Display option

The filter criteria is active. The "Display all messages" or

"Show hidden messages only" option is currently active.

Locked

The lock is set on messages.

Pending hidden
messages

There are hidden messages pending.

Connection status

Shows the status of the connection to the alarm servers:

No connection errors
Faulty connections exist
All connections are faulty

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Date

Shows the system date.

Time

Shows the system time.

Time base

Shows the time base used for displaying times.

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5.6.3.2

How to Select Messages

Introduction
You can use the selection dialog in Runtime to specify the messages to be displayed in the
message window. You define new selection criteria in the selection dialog, or select an already
existing selection.

New properties of the selection dialog

The design of the selection dialog was enhanced to improve handling comfort and offers the
following new properties:
Concise input of selection criteria.
The "*" and "?" wildcards are supported for setting a criterion.
Saving a selection enables reuse of the selection without having to reenter the selection
criteria.
Creating several selections.
Duplicating a configured selection
Linking specific selections in terms of a logical "OR" operation.
A fixed selection is available that cannot be changed in Runtime. The fixed selection and
the active user-defined selections are logically linked by "AND" operation.
All users are granted full access to all user-defined selections.
The SQL statements you created by means of scripting, or entered in the object property
"MsgFilterSQL", are written to the list of selections and provided with a comment.

Requirement
You configured the "Selection dialog" button function on the "Toolbar" tab of the
AlarmControl.
You activated the message blocks that are available as the selection criteria on the
"Message blocks" tab using the "Selectable in selection dialog" option.
If a fixed selection is configured, other activated selections and the fixed selection are
logically linked by "AND" operation.

Procedure
1.

Click on

in Runtime. The "Selections" dialog opens.

2. Click "New..." to create a selection. You can also activate existing selections by clicking in
the check box in front of the selection name.
3. When creating a new selection, assign a name to the selection and an expressive comment
to distinguish it from other selections.

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4. Click in the first empty row of the "Criterion" column. The list with the selectable system
blocks, configured user text blocks and process value blocks is displayed. Select the
message block.
5. Select the suitable operand using the "Operand" column.
6. Click in the corresponding row of the "Setting" column. Depending on the text block, enter
a text or a value, or select an option.
7. Click "OK". The selection is saved and is listed in the table of selections.
8. You can create other selections or edit, remove or duplicate existing selections in the
selection dialog.
9. In the table, activate the selections to be included in the message window.
10.Click "Apply". The message window shows the selected messages.
11.Click "OK" to close the selection dialog.
NOTICE
Ensuring the display of all messages
Observe the proper use of criteria, operands and settings of selections.
Incorrectly linked criteria can lead to important messages not being displayed in the
AlarmControl. Use the "Apply" button in Runtime to check the selection.
Test all selections separately and before linking these, and then test the linked selections.
Verify that all expected messages are also displayed in combination.
This ensures that all selections are displayed in the AlarmControl.
Note
It is not possible to enter text as selection criterion for a process value. If you want to select
based on the text of a process value block or on the displayed process tags, proceed as
follows:
1) Insert this process value as message text of a user text block in a message.
2) Select the messages based on the text in the "Message Text" text block in Runtime.
In multi-user systems, you must ensure that contents displayed in the selection dialog on
a client are named identically on all servers.

Note
Displaying messages from WinCC/CAS in WinCC AlarmControl
You must specify a time range in the selection dialog to display messages from WinCC/CAS
in AlarmControl. If you did not specify a time range, only messages from the server are
displayed.

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5.6.3.3

How to Lock and Unlock Messages

Introduction
Message locking suppresses the display and archiving of messages. You can set a lock for
the following:
Single messages
Message types
Message classes
Group messages and user-defined group messages

Persistence of message locking

The lock of single messages is not persistent. Locked single messages are unlocked
automatically at the restart of WinCC Runtime. Exceptions are messages that are locked
directly in the AS by means of data blocks (locking via source).
The lock of message classes and message types also remains active after the restart of
WinCC Runtime.

Prerequisite
You configured the relevant button functions on the "Toolbar" tab of the AlarmControl.

Locking and enabling selected messages using the "Lock message" and "Enable message" button
functions
1. In the message list, select the message row which contains the message to be locked.
2.
3.

Click the "Lock message" button

. The message is removed from the message list.

You can view the locked message by clicking the "Lock List" button
the selected message again by clicking the "Enable message" button
is removed from the lock list.

. You can enable

. The message

Note
Users who are authorized to lock and unlock messages must have been granted both
authorizations in the User Administrator, and these authorizations must be configured
directly one below the other. This is necessary as the authorization level defined below
the authorization for "Lock Messages" in the User Administrator is used automatically as
the authorization for enabling.
Note
If locking/enabling a single message of an Alarm_8P using S7PMC, you lock/enable all 8
single messages of this block.

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Locking and enabling single messages using the message number

1.

Click the "Lock Dialog" button

. The "Set the lock list parameters" dialog opens.

2. Click a server in the server list, or click the local computer for workstation projects.
3. Click the "Add" button. Enter the message number to be locked in the next dialog.

4. You can lock several messages simultaneously. Enter comma separated message
numbers accordingly. Enter a range with the syntax "5-10" for a message number range.
Only continuous message ranges are locked. If there are gaps in the specified range, the
message "Invalid Range" is returned.
5. To enable a locked message, select the message from the list of locked messages and
then click the "Delete".
Note
You can lock and enable a up to 50 messages simultaneously.

Locking and enabling of messages based on message class, message type, or user-defined group
message criteria
1.

Click the "Lock Dialog" button

. The "Set the lock list parameters" dialog opens.

2. Click a server in the server list, or click the local computer for workstation projects.

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3. In the tree view, select the message class, the message type, or the user-defined group
message to be locked. Click the "Lock" button. All message of the specified message class,
message type or user-defined group message are locked.

4. To enable the locked messages, select the relevant message class, message type or userdefined group message and then click the "Enable" button.
Note
The server list contains only those server projects whose "Packages" are loaded on the
computer containing the project where you are configuring the control.

5.6.3.4

How to Perform an Emergency Acknowledgement

Introduction
In exceptional cases, a message can be acknowledged on the basis of its message number.
In this case, the acknowledgment signal is also transferred to the AS if the message is currently
inactive. Acknowledgment of inactive messages only refers to messages which were
configured in proper chronological order.
Note
The emergency acknowledgment function is not provided for general acknowledgment. The
function may only be used in extreme emergency situations.

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Prerequisite
You configured the "Emergency Acknowledgment" button function on the "Toolbar" tab of
the AlarmControl.

Procedure
1.

Click the "Emergency acknowledgment" button

of messages" dialog opens.

. The "Emergency acknowledgment

2. Select a server. In the "Message number" input field, enter the number of the message to
be acknowledged.

3. Click the "Send request" button. In the message window, the message now appears in the
color that you specified for an acknowledged message.
Note
In the dialog for the selection of the servers, only server projects are shown whose
"Package" is loaded onto the computer.

5.6.3.5

How to Sort the Display of Messages

Introduction
During runtime, you can sort the messages in the message window on the basis of message
blocks. You sort the message blocks either via the "Sort Dialog" keyboard function or directly
via the column headers of the message blocks. User defined sorting is only executed if autoscrolling is disabled. The default sorting mode is executed if auto-scrolling is enabled
Examples of message sorting:

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Descending by date, time and message number. The most recent message is displayed
at the top. This is the default descending setting.
Messages are displayed based on their priority. To apply this sorting method, you must
have specified the priorities of messages in the "Alarm logging" editor and configured the
"Priority" message block in the WinCC AlarmControl. As a result, in a single-line message
view, only the top-priority message appears in the message window. The messages are
usually shown in chronological order.
Display of messages in ascending or descending order based on various message blocks,
allowing for user-defined sorting during runtime.
The "Status" message block is sorted according to the status type and not according to the
configured status texts. If sorting is in ascending order, the messages are sorted in the
following order: "Activated", "Deactivated", "Acknowledged", "Locked", "Enabled", "System
acknowledgement", "Emergency acknowledgement" and "Activated/deactivated".
Note
You can also specify the sort criteria during configuration in the AlarmControl by clicking
the "Edit..." button under "Sorting" on the "Message lists" tab. You configure the sort
criteria for the hit list on the "Hit List" tab.

How to sort with the Sort dialog

Prerequisite
You have configured the button function "Sort dialog" on the "Toolbar" tab of the
AlarmControl.
You have deactivated the button function "Autoscroll" in the toolbar or option "Autoscrolling" on the "General" tab.

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Procedure
1.

Click the "Sort Dialog" button

2. In the "Sort By" field, select the message block by which to sort first. Select the relevant
check box to specify sorting in ascending or descending order. If you want to sort by more
than one message block, select the other message blocks in the desired order in the "Then
sort by" lists.

How to sort the displayed message blocks with the column heading
When sorting using the column header, you are able to specify the sort order for more than
four message blocks. A sorting icon and sorting index, displayed with right-justification in the
column heading, show sorting order and sorting sequence of the message blocks.

Prerequisite
You have permitted the sorting in the list field "Sorting with column heading" by clicking or
double clicking on the WinCC AlarmControl on the "Parameter" tab.
You have activated the "Show sorting icon" and "Show sorting index" check boxes.
You have deactivated the button function "Autoscroll" in the toolbar or option "Autoscrolling" on the "General" tab.

Procedure
1. Click the column header of the message block you want to sort by first. The sorting index
"1" is displayed, and the sorting icon points upwards for ascending sort order.
2. If you want to sort in descending order, click the column header again.
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3. If the sorting order has been defined with "up/down/none", you can undo the sorting of the
message block with a third click.
4. If you want to sort on the basis of several message blocks, click the header columns of the
respective message blocks in the desired sequence.

5.6.3.6

How to Hide and Unhide Messages

Introduction
Manual hiding of messages puts lesser information load on the user of the system. You as
user can concentrate better on the messages only if lesser important messages are not shown.

Manual hide process

During manual hide, you as user will decide whether to hide a message by using a button in
the message window. You can show the message again using a button or the system will show
the message after a configurable period. Operator input messages can be triggered in Manual
Hide.

Requirement
You have configured the button functions "Hide message" and "Unhide message" and "List
of messages to be hidden" on the "Toolbar" tab in WinCC AlarmControl.
Runtime has been activated and the WinCC AlarmControl is displayed.

Procedure
1. Select the message you want to hide in the message list, short-term archive list or longterm archive list.
2.

3.

button. The message is no longer displayed in the list and

Click the "Hide message"
is added to the list of messages to be hidden.
Click the "List of messages to be hidden"

button to display the hidden messages.

4. To show these messages again, display the "List of messages to be hidden". Select a
message and click the "Unhide message"
button. The message is removed from the
"List of messages to be hidden" and displayed back in the original list.
5. If you do not take any action to show the hidden messages, the configured duration will
decide when the system has to display back a message and remove it from the "List of
messages to be hidden".

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Runtime response to manual and automatic hiding of messages

Using the manual and automatic hide functions during Runtime has an effect on both the hide
modes:
If the message is hidden automatically, you can display it again by clicking "Unhide
message".
Automatic hiding takes priority over manual hiding:
If the status of the hiding tag occurs for automatic hiding of the message, the message
is shown again, even if the time period for manual hiding has not yet elapsed.
If a message has the status of the hide tag for automatic hiding, the message remains
hidden, even if the time period for manual hiding has elapsed.

5.6.4

AlarmControl example project

5.6.4.1

Examples of configuring an AlarmControl

Introduction
The following example shows the configuration of a WinCC Alarm Control and the display of
messages in runtime.

Prerequisite
A message system has been set up using the "Alarm Logging" editor.

The procedure in principle

In Alarm Logging
1. Configure the required message blocks, message classes and message types according
to your requirements.
2. Configure the single messages and group messages that you require.
In Graphics Designer
1. Link the WinCC AlarmControl to a Graphics Designer picture and change the properties of
the control.
2. For the example, configure buttons to trigger and acknowledge messages in the Graphic
Designer.

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5.6.4.2

How to Configure the Message System

Introduction
If you have created a message system in Alarm Logging, you configure the message system
in Alarm Logging according to your requirements.
The following settings are configured for the AlarmControl example:
Number of displayable characters in the "Message Text" user text block
Acknowledgment conception for message class "Error"
Coloring of message states for the "Alarm" and "Warning" message classes

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Prerequisite
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the "Message Text" user text block, and change
the length of the message block.

2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the "Error" message class, and select the
"Acknowledgment activated" check box on the "Acknowledgment" tab.

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3. Select the "Properties" command in the shortcut menus of message type "Alarm" or
"Warning," respectively, and select the font color and background color for the message
states.

4. Save the settings in Alarm Logging.

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5.6.4.3

How to Configure Single Messages

Introduction
In the example, four message are displayed during runtime. You configure these message in
Alarm Logging with the following settings:
No.

Class

Type

Message tag

Message text

Point of error

Fault

Alarm

Tank1

Tank 1 empty

Tank 1

Fault

Alarm

Tank2

Tank 2 empty

Tank 2

Fault

Alarm

Tank3

Tank 3 empty

Tank 3

Prerequisite
Configure the three "Binary" type tags "Tank1", "Tank2" and "Tank3" in the Tag
Management.
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the Alarm Logging table window, add a new line for each message using the shortcut
menu.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the messages created.

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3. On the "Parameters" tab of the "Single Message" dialog, select the class and type indicated
above and connect the message to the respective message tag.

4. Activate the option "is single acknowledgment only"in order to acknowledge the message
with an acknowledgment button in the example project.
5. On the "Text" tab of the "Single Message" dialog, enter the text indicated above for
"Message Text" and "Point of Error".
6. Configure two additional messages with "Tank2" and "Tank3".
7. Save the settings in Alarm Logging.
Note
You can create the tags used as message tags either in the Tag Management of WinCC
Explorer or directly by selecting the message tag on the "Parameters" tab of Alarm Logging.

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5.6.4.4

How to configure the AlarmControl in the Graphics Designer

Introduction
Messages are displayed in runtime in WinCC AlarmControl. Configure the AlarmControl in the
Graphics Designer.
The following settings are configured for the example project:
Keyboard functions in the toolbar
Selection in the message window
Selection and order of the message blocks that are displayed in the message window

Procedure
1. Start Graphics Designer and open a new picture.
2. On the object palette, double-click the "WinCC AlarmControl" on the "Controls tab".
3. The Control is inserted into the picture. Click the Control at the drag point and drag it to the
desired size.
4. Double-click the Control. The "Properties of WinCC AlarmControl" is opened with the
"General" tab.

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5. "Normal" is already selected as the window heading. Enter the desired window name in the
"Text" input field.

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6. On the "Toolbar" tab, select the "Display Toolbar" check box. Select the keyboard functions
you require. You need button functions "Configuration dialog", "Message list", "Lock list",
"Single acknowledgment", "Selection dialog", "Autoscroll", "Lock message" and "Enable
message" for the examples.

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7. Select "Single selection" as lines that can be marked and "Line" as selection outline on the
"Marker" tab. Define the marking colors as you wish.

8. Define the other display options as you like on the "Parameter" and "Display" tabs.

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9. Select the available message blocks "Time", User text block 1" and "User text block 2" to
change the format and name on the "Message blocks" tab. You can only change the
message blocks if you have deactivated the "Apply project settings" option. Select the
desired format in the "Format" field for "Time". For "User text block 1", the name "Message
text" and for "User text block 2" the name "Fault location" are already entered.

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10.Define the message blocks and the sequence as columns on the "Message lists" tab. Using
the arrow keys, move the selected message blocks from the list of "Available message
blocks" to the list of "Selected message blocks". Change the order by selecting a message
block and clicking "Up" or "Down".

11.Click "OK" to close the dialog, and save your settings in the Graphics Designer.

Results
The WinCC AlarmControl is configured for the example. If you have activated button function
"Configuration dialog" on the "Toolbar" tab, you can change the display of tables in the control
at any time in runtime.

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5.6.4.5

How to Configure Buttons for Changing Message Tags

Introduction
You have configured three single messages in Alarm Logging. In order to reproduce the
example for the Alarm Control, you configure three buttons in the Graphics Designer that you
use during runtime to set and reset the binary message tags of the individual messages. The
message window shows the message statuses with the configured colors.

Procedure
1. In the object palette of the Graphics Designer, select the "Standard" tab and click the
"Button" object in the "Windows Object" group. Position the cursor in the picture to the spot
where you want to insert the button, and enter the text "Tank1".
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu.
3. Make the "Press left" event dynamic by establishing a direct link between the constant "1"
and the tag "Tank1".

4. Make the "Press right" event dynamic by establishing a direct link between the constant "0"
and the tag "Tank1".
5. Likewise, configure two additional buttons with "Tank2" and "Tank3".
6. Save your settings in the Graphics Designer.

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5.6.4.6

Example of making the toolbar of the AlarmControl dynamic

Introduction
In order to operate a button function of the toolbar of the WinCC AlarmControl from another
location, you must provide the "ToolbarButtonClick" property with the respective "ID".
In principle, any object can be used to operate the AlarmControl. In the following example, the
standard object "Button" is used to acknowledge a message.

Prerequisite
You have configured the example project for AlarmControl.
You have opened the picture with the configured AlarmControl in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Determine the object name of the AlarmControl based on the object properties of the
control, for example, "Control1".
2. Insert a button object from the Windows objects of the object palette into the picture. Enter
a button text, e.g. "Acknowledge".
3. In order to make the button object dynamic, open the shortcut menu for the properties of
the button object. In the "Event" tab, select the "Mouse" property. Make the attribute "Mouse
click" dynamic with a C action.
4. Select "C action..." with the right mouse button. The "Edit action" window is opened.
5. Insert the following into the right window area:
\\ activate toolbar button single acknowledgment (ID: 10)
SetPropWord(lpszPictureName, "Control1", "ToolbarButtonClick", 10);
6. Compile and save the C action.
7. Save your settings in the Graphics Designer.

5.6.4.7

How to operate the example on AlarmControl

Prerequisite
You have saved the configured picture in the Graphics Designer.
You have entered the configured picture as the start screen in the "Computer properties"
dialog on the "Graphics Runtime" tab.
You have activated "Graphics Runtime", "Alarm Logging Runtime" and "Global Script
Runtime" applications in the startup list of WinCC Explorer using the "Computer properties"
dialog.

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Activating and deactivating Runtime

1. Activate runtime by clicking the relevant button in the toolbar or selecting the relevant menu
option in WinCC Explorer.
2. Click on the three buttons with the left mouse button. The respective messages are
incoming and are displayed.
3. Click on the "Tank 1" button with the right mouse button for example. The message is
outgoing. The message status changes, indicated by the changed color.

4. After you have tested other control capabilities, e.g. locking messages, deactivate runtime.
You can deactivate Runtime using the toolbar or the menu bar of WinCC Explorer.

Locking and enabling messages

1. In the message list, select the message line containing the message to be locked, for
example, "Tank1".
2.
3.
4.

Click on the

button. The message is removed from the message list.

If you click the button

, you will see the locked message in the lock list.

You can unlock the selected message in the lock list again by clicking button
message will be removed from the lock list.

. The

Acknowledging a message using the acknowledgment button

1. Mark one of the messages that has the "Activated" state, e.g. the message "Tank 3 empty".
2. Now click on the dynamic acknowledgment button. The message is acknowledged. The
message status changes, indicated by the changed color.

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5.7

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5.7

Resources

5.7.1

WinCC Alarm Control

Introduction
WinCC Alarm Control is used as a message window for displaying message events.

Lists in the Message Window

You have the option to view six different lists in the message window:
Message list showing the currently pending messages.
Short-term archive list showing archived messages. The display is updated immediately
when new incoming messages occur.
Long-term archive list showing archived messages.
Lock list showing the currently locked messages.
Hit list showing statistics.
List of hidden messages to show messages that have been archived but are not displayed.

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Note
A message is shown with a crossed-out date and time stamp in the message list when any
of the following occur:
A locked message is unlocked.
A message is reloaded after a power failure. This applies only to chronological messaging.
The AS is restarted. This applies only to chronological messaging.

See also
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)
How to Configure Single Messages (Page1075)

5.7.2

Configuration of the Alarm Control

5.7.2.1

Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control

Introduction
Using an example, you will see how to display messages during runtime WinCC Alarm Control.

Requirement
You have created a message system with the "Alarm Logging" editor.

General Procedure
In Alarm Logging
1. Configure the required message blocks, message classes and message types according
to your requirements.
2. Configure the single messages and group messages that you require.
In Graphics Designer
1. Link the WinCC Alarm Control to a Graphics Designer picture and change the properties
of the Control.
2. In order to reproduce the message window settings for the example, you must configure
buttons for setting and resetting the message tags in the Graphics Designer.
Note
Standard functions can be used to control the message window. If you do not want to use
the toolbar functions to operate the message window, you can make any of the Graphics
Designer objects dynamic using the appropriate functions.

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See also
Standard Functions for Operation of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1106)
How to Configure the Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer (Page1077)
How to Configure Single Messages (Page1075)
How to Configure the Message System (Page1072)
Configuring the Message System (Page903)

5.7.2.2

How to Configure the Message System

Introduction
If you have created a message system in Alarm Logging, you configure the message system
in Alarm Logging according to your requirements.
The following settings are configured for the Alarm Control example::
Number of displayable characters in the "Message Text" user text block
Acknowledgement theory for message class "Error".
Color assignment for the message statuses of message types "Alarm" and "Warning"

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Requirement
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the "Message Text" user text block, and change
the length of the message block.

2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the "Error" message class, and select the
"Acknowledgement Came In" check box on the "Acknowledgement" tab.

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3. Select the "Properties" command in the shortcut menus of message type "Alarm" or
"Warning," respectively, and select the text color and background color for the message
statuses.

4. Save the settings in Alarm Logging.

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See also
How to Configure the Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer (Page1077)
How to Configure Single Messages (Page1075)
Configuring the Message System (Page903)

5.7.2.3

How to Configure Single Messages

Introduction
In the example, four message are displayed during runtime. You configure these message in
Alarm Logging with the following settings:
No.

Class

Type

Message tag

Message text

Location of
fault

Fault

Alarm

Tank1

Tank 1 empty

Tank 1

Fault

Alarm

Tank2

Tank 2 empty

Tank 2

Fault

Alarm

Tank3

Tank 3 empty

Tank 3

Fault

Warning

Motor

Motor on

Requirement
Configure the four "Binary"-type tags "Tank1", "Tank2", "Tank3" and "Motor" in the Tag
Management.
The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. In the Alarm Logging table window, add a new line for each message using the shortcut
menu.
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu of the created message.

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3. On the "Parameters" tab of the "Single Message" dialog, select the class and type indicated
above and connect the message to the respective message tag.

4. On the "Text" tab of the "Single Message" dialog, enter the text indicated above for
"Message Text" and "Point of Error".
5. Likewise, configure three additional messages with "Tank2", "Tank3" and "Motor".
6. Save the settings in Alarm Logging.
Note
You can create the tags used as message tags either in the Tag Management of WinCC
Explorer or directly by selecting the message tag on the "Parameters" tab of Alarm Logging.

See also
How to Configure the Message System (Page1072)
Configuring the Message System (Page903)

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5.7.2.4

How to Configure the Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer

Introduction
During runtime, the message events are displayed in an ActiveX Control, which is inserted
and configured in a picture in the Graphics Designer.
The following settings are configured for the example project:
Keyboard functions in the toolbar
Selection in the message window
Selection and order of the message blocks that are displayed in the message window

Procedure
1. Start Graphics Designer and open a new picture.
2. In the object palette on the "Controls" tab, double-click "WinCC Alarm Control".

3. The Control is inserted into the picture. Click the Control at the drag point and drag it to the
desired size.

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4. Double-click the Control to open the "WinCC Alarm Control Properties" dialog. Enter a name
for the window in the "Window Header" box and select the "Window Header" check box in
order to display the window name during runtime.

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5. On the "Toolbar" tab, select the "Display Toolbar" check box. Select the keyboard functions
you require. For the examples, you need the following keyboard functions: "Message List",
"Lock List", "Selection Dialog", "Lock Dialog", "Emergency Acknowledgement", "Lock/
Unlock Message" and "Sort Dialog".

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6. In the "Selection" group of the "Parameters" tab, select the "Line" option.

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7. On the "Message Blocks" tab, select the "Time" system block and the two user text blocks
"Message Text" and "Point of Error".

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8. On the "Message Lists" tab, specify the message blocks and the order in which they are to
be displayed in the message window. Using the arrow keys, move the selected message
blocks from the list of "Existing Message Blocks" to the list of "Selected Message Blocks".
or

Change the order by selecting a message block and clicking

9. Click "OK" to close the dialog, and save your settings in the Graphics Designer.

See also
How to Configure Buttons for Changing Message Tags (Page1083)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

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5.7.2.5

How to Configure Buttons for Changing Message Tags

Introduction
You have configured four single messages in Alarm Logging. In order to reproduce the example
for the Alarm Control, you configure four buttons in the Graphics Designer that you use during
runtime to set and reset the binary message tags of the individual messages. The message
window shows the message statuses with the configured colors.

Procedure
1. In the object palette of the Graphics Designer, select the "Standard" tab and click the
"Button" object in the "Windows Object" group. Position the cursor on the image at the spot
where you want to insert the button, and enter the text "Tank1".
2. Select "Properties" in the shortcut menu.
3. Make the "Left-click" event dynamic by establishing a direct link between the constant "1"
and the tag "Tank1".

4. Make the "Right-click" event dynamic by establishing a direct link between the constant "0"
and the tag "Tank1".
5. Likewise, configure three additional buttons with "Tank2", "Tank3" and "Motor".
6. Save your settings in the Graphics Designer.

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See also
How to Configure the Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer (Page1077)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

5.7.2.6

How to Configure a Hit List of Messages

Introduction
The hit list displays statistics for the archived messages in the message window. In addition
to statistics, a limited selection of configured message blocks can also be displayed in the hit
list. In the case of variable contents, the message blocks display the data for the last incoming
message.
You assemble the columns of the hit list yourself, which consist of the message blocks and
the statistics.
The following statistical calculations are available fro messages:
Frequency of a message. The frequency is only increased, if a message with status "Came
In" is included in the archive. If the frequency of a message number in the selected message
range is "0", no entry is made in the statistics for this message number.
The cumulative duration of a message number in seconds for status "Came In/Came In"(+/
+),"Came In/Went Out"(+/-), the status "Came In/Initial Acknowledgment"(+/*1) or the status
"Came In/Second Acknowledgement"(+/*2).
The average duration of a message number in seconds for status "Came In/Came In"(+/
+),"Came In/Went Out"(+/-), the status "Came In/Initial Acknowledgment"(+/*1) or the status
"Came In/Second Acknowledgement"(+/*2).
Only the acknowledgement statuses "Acknowledgement", "System Acknowledgement" and
"Emergency Acknowledgement" are taken into account in the statistical calculation of the
acknowledgement times.
Note
Messages with the statuses "Acknowledgement", "System acknowledgement", "Emergency
Acknowledgement" and "Went Out" are only taken into account in the statistical calculation
if the event set available for the statistical calculation includes a relevant, earlier-occurring
message with "Came In" status.

If only one acknowledgement occurs for a message with single or double acknowledgement,
the acknowledgement time is taken into account for the calculation of the cumulative duration
and the average duration of the two statuses "Came In/Initial Acknowledgement" and "Came
In/Second Acknowledgement".

If runtime has been deactivated and reactivated several times and a message is pending
during this time, for example, due to the external bit message procedure or chronological
messaging, the message will be entered multiple times in the archive with status "Came In",
so that it is also counted several times in the calculation.

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Requirement
You have opened the Graphics Designer is opened and linked an Alarm Control.
You have selected the message blocks you want to incorporate in the hit list on the
"Message Blocks" tab.
You have specified the properties of the message blocks that you want to incorporate in
the hit list.
You have activated the keyboard function "Hit List" on the "Toolbar" tab of the Alarm Control.

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Procedure
1. Double-click the Control. Select the "Hit List" tab.

2.

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Select the columns you want to display in the hit list. To do so, click
Columns" dialog opens.

. The "Add

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The dialog contains all statistical calculations that are available, as well as a limited number
of configured message blocks. You add the columns to the hit list by making one or more
selections and clicking "OK". If you want to remove columns from the hit list, select the
relevant columns in the "Hit List Columns" list and click

3. You can change the order in which the columns are displayed in the hit list by selecting the
column and clicking

or

to move it within the list.

4. Configure the column properties for the statistics data columns. You can rename the
column, change the alignment and the format of the values in the column, and adjust the
width of the column.
5. Columns can be named in two ways: If you are assigning a column name that is identical
every runtime language, enter a name in the edit box. If you want to use multiple languages,
use a text entry in the test library. Click

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6. If you want to configure the format of the column, select the "User Defined" check box.
Enter the desired format specification in the edit box or click
. If you have selected the
column for "Frequency" or a summation, the "Integer Formatting Help" dialog opens. For
formatting the averaging calculation, the "Formatting Help Floating-Point Number" dialog
opens.

Specify the format settings. The preview shows the effect of your column format settings.
In the Format Specification box, you can enter additional text in front of and behind the
formatting specification. Click
specification.

to confirm your entry. Click "OK" to confirm the format

7. Using the "Selection" button, specify the criteria to be used for displaying messages in the
hit list, such as a specific message class or a specific time range. If no time range is
specified, all times are taken into account in calculating average values. Note that a longrange selection can adversely affect performance. Alternatively, you can specify the
selection criteria for the hit list during runtime.
8. Using the "Sort..." button, specify the criteria to be used for sorting the columns in the hit
list, for example, first descending by date and then ascending by message number.
Alternatively, you can define the sort criteria for the hit list during runtime using the Sort
dialog or "Sort by Column Header" function.

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9. Using the "Settings..." button, specify limitations regarding the number of messages and
the time range to be taken into account in the statistical calculations for the hit list. This
enables you to avoid adverse impacts on performance.

If no time range is specified in the selection dialog, you can select the relevant check box
and enter a time factor and a time type to be used to generate the statistics. If the check
box is not selected, the time factor is set to "0" and no time filter is applied.
In the "Quantity Limitation" field, specify the maximum number of data records from the
message archive that are to be used to generate the hit list.
Example: You have specified the "Message Class Alarm High" filter in the selection dialog.
For the compilation of the hit list, all alarm messages that meet this criteria are retrieved
from the message server. From this group, the number of data records that is taken into
account in the statistics is limited to the amount you specified in the quantity limitation.
When the maximum number of records is reached, a warning can be issued.
10.Click "OK" or "Apply" to confirm the settings for the hit list. The hit list is now compiled. You
can access the hit list during runtime by clicking

in the toolbar.

If no sort criteria are specified, the values in the hit list are sorted in descending order of
frequency.
New incoming messages are not automatically included in the hit list. To include them, you
must reselect the hit list.

See also
How to Configure the Alarm Control in the Graphics Designer (Page1077)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

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5.7.2.7

How to Activate the Example for Alarm Control

Requirement
Prior to activating the example for the WinCC Alarm Control, you must
Activate "Graphics Runtime" and "Alarm Logging Runtime" in the startup list of WinCC
Explorer using the "Computer Properties" dialog
Save the picture you configured in the Graphics Designer and enter it as the startup picture
on the "Graphics Runtime" tab of the "Computer Properties" dialog.

Procedure
1. Activate runtime by clicking the relevant button in the toolbar or selecting the relevant menu
option in WinCC Explorer.
2. Click the four buttons. The corresponding messages are displayed. If you now right-click
the "Tank 2" button, the message status changes as indicated by the color assignment.

3. Deactivate runtime by clicking the relevant button in the toolbar or selecting the relevant
menu option in WinCC Explorer.

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5.7.3

Operation during runtime

5.7.3.1

Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime

Introduction
The buttons on the toolbar are used to operate the message window during runtime. If you do
not want to use the toolbar to operate the message window, you can use the functions available
in the "Standard Functions/Alarm" group of the "Global Script" editor.
"Message list"
Shows the currently pending messages.
"Short-term archive list"
Shows the archived messages in the short-term archive list.
"Long-term archive list"
Shows the archived messages in the long-term archive list
"Lock List"
Shows all messages blocked in the system.
"Hit List"
Displays the message blocks and the static information that you have configured on the
hit list tab of alarm control.
"Ackn. Central Signaling Devices"
Acknowledges a visual or audio messenger
"Single acknowledgment"
Acknowledges a selected single message
"Group acknowledgement"
Acknowledges all pending visible messages in the message window that require
acknowledgement, unless they require single acknowledgment
"Autoscroll"
If "Autoscroll" has been activated, the latest modified message is selected in the message
window. The visible range of the message window is moved, if necessary.
If "Autoscroll" is not activated, a new message that appears is not selected. The visible
range of the message window is not modified.
Message rows can be selected in a targeted manner only if "Autoscroll" is activated.
"Selection dialog"
Specifies the selection criteria for the messages to be displayed in the message window.
The messages that meet these criteria are not displayed but are nevertheless archived.
"Display options dialog"
Defines which messages are to be displayed in the message window.
If the "Display all messages" option has been activated, the message windows shows the
hidden as well as displayed messages.
If the "Display shown messages only" option is activated, only shown messages are
displayed in the message window.
If the "Display hidden messages only" option is activated, only hidden messages are
displayed in the message window.

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"Lock dialog"
Defines the blocking criteria. All messages that meet these criteria are neither displayed
nor archived.
"Print message report"
Function for generating documentation containing a user-defined selection of messages
"Print current view"
Starts the printout of the messages displayed in the message window. Print job used during
printing can be specified in the control properties on the "General" tab.
In the Parameter dialog of the layouts linked to the print order, select the list of messages
you want to print.
"Emergency acknowledgement"
Emergency acknowledgement of a message requiring acknowledgement. This function is
used to send the acknowledgment signal of a selected single message directly the the
AS, even when the message is not queued.
The acknowledgment of unqueued messages only relates to messages configured in
correct chronological order.
"First message"
The first of the currently pending messages is selected. The visible range of the message
window is moved, if necessary. The button is only available if "Auto scrolling" is deactivated.
"Last message"
The last of the currently pending messages is selected. The visible range of the message
window is moved, if necessary. The button is only available if "Auto scrolling" is deactivated.
"Next message"
The next message (relative to the currently selected one) is selected. The visible range
of the message window is moved, if necessary. The button is only available if "Auto
scrolling" is deactivated.
"Previous message"
The previous message (relative to the currently selected one) is selected. The visible range
of the message window is moved, if necessary. The button is only available if "Auto
scrolling" is deactivated.
"Info text dialog"
Opens a dialog where you can display info texts
"Comments dialog"
Opens a text editor where you can enter comments
This button is only available in the long-term archive window. The configuration of this
function therefore has an effect on the alarm control properties only for this window type.
"Loop in alarm"
Shows a picture related to the selected message, or triggers a script.
The function can also be started by double-clicking a message.
"Enable message"
Click this button to unlock a message selected in the lock list.
"Lock message"
A selected message is locked in the current message list and in the message archive list.
"Sort dialog"
Opens a dialog for setting user-defined sort criteria for the displayed messages.
User-defined sort criteria override the sort criteria resulting from the "MsgCtrlFlags"
attribute.

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"Time base dialog"
Opens a dialog for setting the time base for the time data displayed in the messages.
"List of hidden messages"
The list of hidden messages shows all messages that are not visible due to automatic or
manual hide in the message list, in the short-term archive list or the long-term archive list.
"Hide messages"
Hides the message you have selected in the message list, short-term archive list or longterm archive list. The message is entered in the list of hidden messages.
'Unhide messages"
Shows again the message you have selected in the "List of hidden messages" in the
message list, short-term archive list or long-term archive list. The message is removed
from the list of hidden messages.

Possible elements of the status bar

Icon

Description

Date

System date

Time of day

System time

List:

Number of current messages in the message list.

Window:

Number of messages in the window

Ackn:

Number of pending messages requiring acknowledgement

Selection has been made.
Filter criterion is effective, i.e. the "Display all messages" or "Display hidden
messages only" option is currently active.
Lock is set.
There are hidden messages pending.

See also
Standard Functions for Operation of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1106)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

5.7.3.2

How to Select Messages

Introduction
You can use selection criteria during runtime to define which messages you want to display
in the message window. In the example below, only messages that contain message text
"Motor on" are displayed.

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Requirements
You have configured the relevant keyboard functions on the "Toolbar" tab of the Alarm
Control.

Procedure
1.

Click the "Selection Dialog" button

during runtime. The "Selection" dialog opens.

2. Double-click the "Text Blocks" folder in the tree structure, and click "Message Text". In the
right pane, select the "Search Text" check box and double-click the "Search Text" selection.

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3. The "Text Input" dialog opens. Enter the search text "Tank 1" and click "OK" to confirm.
4. Click "OK" to close the "Specify Selection" dialog. The message window now shows only
the selected messages.

Notes on defining the dialog

For certain message blocks, such as the date and time-of-day system blocks, you specify the
start and end times or a search text in the dialog. The entry must conform to the format required
in the dialog.
In the "Specify Selection" dialog, you can make the following settings:
Array

Description

Text selection if
exact match

If the "Text selection if exact match" check box is not selected, all text blocks
containing the search string are selected.
If the "Text selection if exact match" check box is selected, all text blocks correspond
exactly to the search string are selected.

Persistence in
RT

If the "Persistent in RT" check box is selected, changes in the search criteria are
retained even after a picture change.

Persistence in
CS and RT

If the "Persistent in RT and CS" check box is selected, the modified settings are also
applied to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in Graphics
Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when the
project is reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS
with PCS 7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS,
the changed settings on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

Delete selection Click this button to delete all configured selection criteria.

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Note
It is not possible to enter text as a selection criterion for a process value. If you want to select
based on the text of a process value block or the displayed process tags, proceed as follows:
1) Insert this process value as a message text of a user text block in a message.
2) During runtime, select the messages based on the text in the "Message Text" text block.
In multi-user systems, you must ensure that contents displayed in the selection dialog on a
client are named identically on all servers.
To select based on the time of day, start and stop values are not automatically adjusted when
the time base of the Alarm Control is changed. For example, a computer located in time zone
"UTC + 1h" has the "Local Time Zone" time base specified in the Control. A selection criterion
based on the time of day 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. is then applied. If the time base of the
Control is now switched to "UTC" and you want to display the same messages in the Control
as before, the start and stop values of the selection must be changed to 9:00 a.m. and 10:00
a.m., respectively.

See also
Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime (Page1091)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

5.7.3.3

How to Lock and Unlock Messages

Introduction
Locked messages are not shown on the display and not archived. You can set a lock for the
following:
Single messages
Single messages with multiple instances. The selected instance of the message will be
locked.
Message types
Alarm classes
Group messages

Persistence in Locking of Messages

The locking of single messages is not persistent. Locked single messages are automatically
unlocked when WinCC Runtime restarts. Exception: messages that are locked directly in
the AS by means of data blocks (locking at source).
The locking of message classes and message types remains in force even after a restart
of WinCC Runtime.

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Requirement
You have configured the relevant keyboard functions on the "Toolbar" tab of the Alarm
Control.

Locking and Unlocking Selected Messages using Keyboard Function "Lock/Unlock Message"
1. In the message list, select the message line containing the message to be locked, for
example, "Tank1".
2.
3.

Click the "Lock/Unlock Message" button

list.
If you click the "Lock List" button

. The message is removed from the message

, you will see the locked message. You can unlock

the selected message again by clicking the "Lock/Unlock Message" button

message will be removed from the lock list.

. The

Note
If a user is authorized to lock and unlock messages, this user must have both authorizations
in the User Administrator, and these authorizations must be configured directly one below
the other. This is necessary, since the unlock authorization for locked messages automatically
uses the authorization level defined in the authorization for "Lock Messages" in the User
Administration.

Note
Locking/unlocking of a single message of an Alarm_8(P) using S7PMC always results in the
locking/unlocking of all 8 single messages of this block.

Locking and Unlocking of Single Messages Using the Message Number

1.

Click the "Lock Dialog" button

. The "Configure Lock List" dialog opens.

2. Click a server in the server list, or click the local computer in the case of a single-user
projects.

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3. Click the "Add" button. In the subsequent dialog, enter the message number that you want
to lock.

4. You can lock several messages simultaneously. To do this, enter the message numbers
separated by commas. To select the a range of message numbers, enter a range in the
form "5-10". Only uninterrupted message ranges are locked. If there are gaps in the
specified range, the message "Invalid Range" is returned.
5. To unlock a locked message, select the messages in the list of locked messages and click
the "Delete" button.
Note
You can lock and unlock a maximum of 50 messages simultaneously.

Locking and Unlocking of Messages Using the Message Class, Message Type or User-Defined Group
Message
1.

Click the "Lock Dialog" button

. The "Configure Lock List" dialog opens.

2. Click a server in the server list, or click the local computer in the case of a single-user
projects.

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3. In the tree structure, select a message class, message type or user-defined group message
that you want to lock. Click the "Lock" button. All message of the specified message class,
message type or user-defined group message are locked.

4. To unlock the locked messages, select the relevant message class, message type or userdefined group message and click the "Unlock" button.
Note
The server list contains only those server projects whose "Packages" are loaded on the
computer containing the project where you are configuring the Control.

Operator Input Message upon Locking a Message

In the Alarm Control, you can specify whether an operator input message is generated when
a message is locked or unlocked. You can configure the operator input message yourself. It
contains the following information, by default:
Time stamp
Logged-on user
Name of the computer in the message archive of the relevant alarm server
The time stamp for the message comes from the following:
The message source (e.g., AS), in the case of active locking
The alarm server (OS), in the case of passive locking
Actively locked messages are visible and operable on all WinCC servers and clients.

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Procedure
1. On the "Message Lists" tab in the properties dialog for the Alarm Control, click the "Operator
Input Messages..." button.
2. In the "Operator Input Messages" dialog, select the relevant check boxes if an operator
input message is to be triggered when messages are locked or unlocked.
3. If you want to configure the content of the operator input message yourself, click
.
In the configuration dialog, enter the number of a message that you have configured
previously in Alarm Logging. You assign the message blocks of the locked message to the
process value blocks of the operator input message. These message blocks must be
selected on the "Message Blocks" tab. Click "OK" to confirm your settings.
Note
Operator input messages can only be archived if system messages are set up in the message
archive.

See also
Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime (Page1091)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

5.7.3.4

How to Hide and Show Messages

Introduction
Manual hiding of messages puts lesser information load on the user of the system. You as
user can concentrate better on the messages only if lesser important messages are not shown.

Properties of Hidden Messages

Hidden messages are:
In the message list, short-term archive list and long-term archive list, you can select whether
the hidden messages are to be displayed. The display depends on the activated option in
the "Display Options" dialog.
They are included in the list of hidden messages and displayed there.
They are archived.
They do not trigger the alarm in Basic Process Control.
You can again show messages that are hidden manually or automatically.
In manual hide, they are displayed again after a certain defined period.
Manual hiding forces you to acknowledge messages that need acknowledgement and
triggers an operator input message.

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Automatic hiding does not force you to acknowledge and therefore it also does not trigger
an operator input message.
In the period when messages requiring confirmation are hidden, the system acknowledges
the outgoing messages. If a message does not have the "gone" status, the system
acknowledges it immediately.

Hide process
During manual hide, you as user will decide whether to hide a message by using a button in
the message window. You can show the message again using a button or the system will show
the message after a configurable period. Operator input messages can be triggered in Manual
Hide.

Configuring Message Hiding in Alarm Logging

You can configure automatic hide and the duration for manual hide in Alarm Logging. The
configuration process is described in the chapter "How to Configure th Hiding of Messages".

Requirement
You have configured the key functions "Hide/Show Message" and "List of Hidden
Messages" in the "Toolbar" tab in WinCC Alarm Control.
Runtime has been activated and the WinCC Alarm Control is displayed.

Procedure
1. Select the message you want to hide in the message list, short-term archive list or longterm archive list.
2.

button. The message is no longer displayed in the list

Click the "Hide/Show message"
and is added to the list of hidden messages.

3. Click the "List of Hidden Messages"

button to display the hidden messages.

4. To show these messages again, display the "List of Hidden Messages". Select a message
and click the "Hide/Show Message"
button. The message is removed from the "List
of Hidden Messages" and displayed back in the original list.
5. If you do not take any action to show the hidden messages, the configured duration will
decide when the system has to display back a message and remove it from the "List of
Hidden Messages".

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Runtime Behavior in Mnaual and Automatic Hiding of Messages

Using the manual and automatic hide functions during runtime has an effect on both the hide
types:
If the message is hidden automatically, you can display it again by clicking "Hide/Show
Message".
You have manually hidden the message using the "Hide/Show Message" button. The
message is shown again when the hide tag reaches the state for automatic display. The
period for manual hide should not have elapsed.
You have manually hidden the message using the "Hide/Show Message" button. Further,
the message has the status of the hide tag for automatic hiding. If the period for manual
hide has expired, this message remains hidden.

See also
How to Configure the Hiding of Messages (Page945)

5.7.3.5

How to Perform an Emergency Acknowledgement

Introduction
In exceptional cases, a message can be acknowledged on the basis of its message number.
In this case, the acknowledgement signal is sent to the AS even if the message is currently
not pending. Acknowledging messages that are not pending only refers to messages that are
configured in chronological order.
For this reason, the function should only be used in extreme emergency situations.

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Requirements
You have configured the keyboard function "Emergency Acknowledgement" on the
"Toolbar" tab of the Alarm Control.

Procedure
1.

Click the "Emergency Acknowledgement" button

for Messages" dialog opens.

. The "Emergency Acknowledgement

2. Select a server. In the "Message Number" box, enter the number of the message to be
acknowledged. Click the "Request" button. In the message window, the message now
appears in the color that you specified for an acknowledged message.

Note
In the dialog for the selection of the servers, only server projects are shown whose "Package"
is loaded onto the computer.

See also
Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime (Page1091)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

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5.7.3.6

How to Sort the Display of Messages

Introduction
During runtime, you can sort the messages in the message window on the basis of message
blocks. You sort the message blocks either via the "Sort Dialog" keyboard function or directly
via the column headers of the message blocks.
Examples for sorting messages:
Display of messages in descending order by date, time and message number The most
recent message is displayed at the top.
Display of messages according to priority. To apply this sorting method, you must have
specified the priorities of messages in Alarm Logging and configured the "Priority" message
block in the Alarm Control. As a result, in a single-line message view, only the top-priority
message appears in the message window. A message with a lower priority is not displayed,
even if it is more recent. Normally, the messages are shown in chronological order.
Display of messages in ascending or descending order based on various message blocks,
allowing for user-defined sorting during runtime.
The "Status" message block is sorted according to the status type and not according to the
configured status texts. If sorting is in ascending order, the messages are sorted in the
following order: Came In, Went Out, Acknowledged, Locked, Unlocked, System
Acknowledgement, Emergency Acknowledgement, Came In/Went Out.
Note
You can also specify the sort criteria during configuration in the Alarm Control by clicking
the "Sorting..." button on the "Message Lists" tab. You configure the sort criteria for the
hit list on the "Hit List" tab.

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Sorting Using the Sort Dialog

Requirement
You have configured the "Sort Dialog" keyboard function on the "Toolbar" tab of the Alarm
Control.

Procedure
1.

Click the "Sort Dialog" button

2. In the "Sort By" field, select the message block by which to sort first. Select the relevant
check box to specify sorting in ascending or descending order. If you want to sort by more
than one message block, select the other message blocks in the desired order in the "Then
By" lists.

Sorting Using the Column Headers of Message Blocks

When sorting using the column header, you can specify the sort order for more than four
message blocks. An arrow and a number are shown in the column header (right-justified). The
arrow indicates the sort direction, i.e. ascending or descending. The number beside the arrow
indicates the sort order of the message blocks.

Requirement
You have selected the "Sort by Column Header" check box on the "Parameters" tab of the
Alarm Control.
You have deactivated the "Autoscroll" keyboard function.

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Procedure
1. Click the column header of the message block you want to sort by first. The number "1" is
displayed, and the arrow points upwards for ascending sort order.
2. If you want to sort in descending order, click the column header again.
3. If you want to clear the sorting of the message block, click the column header a third time.
4. If you want to sort on the basis of several message blocks, click the header columns of the
respective message blocks in the desired sequence.
Note
Sorting is not affected by events or changes in the message block configuration. If you have
defined a message block as a sort criterion in the sort dialog and you subsequently delete
this block from the message line, the specified sort order remains in place. In the sort dialog,
a blank field is displayed instead of the deleted message block. If you have not specified
another sort order and the deleted message block is included again in the message block
configuration of the Control, the messages are again shown in the original sort order.

See also
Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime (Page1091)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

5.7.3.7

Standard Functions for Operation of WinCC Alarm Control

Introduction
If you do not want to use the toolbar to operate the message window, you can use the functions
available in the "Standard Functions/Alarm" group of the "Global Script" editor.

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Function

Description

AXC_OnBtnAlarmHidingList

Function used to switch the message window to show the list of hidden
messages.

AXC_OnBtnArcLong

This function is used to switch the message window to show the

messages in the long-term archive list.

AXC_OnBtnArcShort

This function is used to switch the message window to show the

messages in the short-term archive list.

AXC_OnBtnComment

This function opens the dialog for entry of a message comment.

AXC_OnBtnEmergAckn

This function is used for an emergency acknowledgement of a

message.

AXC_OnBtnHideUnhideMsg

The function hides the selected message or displays again the hidden
message.

AXC_OnBtnHit

This function is used to switch the message window to show the

messages in the hit list.

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Function

Description

AXC_OnBtnHornAckn

This function can be used to acknowledge a central signaling device

assigned to the selected message.

AXC_OnBtnInfo

This function opens an information window showing the stored

information text.

AXC_OnBtnLoop

You can use this function to change the picture to the configured loopin alarm picture of the selected message.

AXC_OnBtnMsgFirst

This function selects the first message and shifts the visible range in
the message window, if necessary.

AXC_OnBtnMsgLast

This function selects the last message and shifts the visible range in
the message window, if necessary.

AXC_OnBtnMsgNext

This function selects the next message and shifts the visible range in
the message window, if necessary.

AXC_OnBtnMsgPrev

This function selects the previous message and shifts the visible range
in the message window, if necessary.

AXC_OnBtnMsgWin

This function is used to switch the message window to show the

messages in the message list.

AXC_OnBtnPrint

Depending on the current display type (message list, short-term

archive list, long-term archive list), this function is used to generate a
printout of the currently pending or archived messages that meet the
selection criteria. The print layout depends on the type of the message
window.

AXC_OnBtnProtocol

This function starts a printout of the current view of the Control. All
messages meeting the selection criteria are printed.

AXC_OnBtnScroll

This function can be used to change the Autoscroll behavior of the

message window.

AXC_OnBtnSelect

This function opens the selection dialog.

AXC_OnBtnSinglAckn

This function is used for acknowledgement of a selected single

message.

AXC_OnBtnSortDlg

This function opens the dialog for creating a user-defined sort criteria
for the displayed messages.

AXC_OnBtnTimeBase

This function opens the dialog for setting the time base for the time
data displayed in the messages.

AXC_OnBtnVisibleAckn

This function is used for acknowledgement of all messages visible in

the message window.

AXC_OnBtnLock

This function opens the dialog where messages can be locked.

AXC_OnBtnLockWin

This function activates the lock list view.

AXC_OnBtnLockUnlock

This function locks the currently selected message in Alarm Control in

the message list, short-term archive list and long-term archive list
views.

If the lock list view is selected, this function is used to unlock the
currently selected message.

AXC_SetFilter

This function can be used to define a filter for selection of messages

to be displayed in the message window. The filter criteria must be
defined within the action script.

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See also
Example of the Use of Standard Functions (Page1108)
Operation of Alarm Control during Runtime (Page1091)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)

5.7.3.8

Example of the Use of Standard Functions

Introduction
In order to operate the WinCC Alarm Control by means a function, you must configure the
corresponding function. This is done by making objects dynamic with standard functions of
Global Script in the Graphics Designer.
In principle, any object can be used to operate the Alarm Control. In order to achieve similarity
with the toolbar of a message window, the following example will insert a graphic object for
acknowledging a message.

Requirement
You have configured the example project for Alarm Control.
You have opened the picture containing the configured Alarm Control in the Graphics
Designer.

Procedure
1. Determine the object name of the Alarm Control based on the object properties of the
Control, for example, "OLE-Control1".
2. Insert a graphic object from the smart objects of the object palette into the picture. Use the
mouse to resize the graphic object to the desired size. In the configuration dialog, select
the picture to be displayed, for example,

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3. In order to make the graphic object dynamic, open the Properties dialog for the object via
the shortcut menu of the graphic object. On the "Events" tab, select the "Mouse" object and
use a C-Action to make the "Mouse Action" attribute dynamic.

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4. In order to enable a single acknowledgement of messages, you must select the
"AXC_OnBtnSinglAckn" function from the "Alarm" standard functions group in the "Edit
Action" window. To do so, double-click the function.

5. The "Set Parameters" window opens. Click "OK" to close the window without changes.

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6. In the "Edit Action" window, replace the string "lpszObjectName" with the object name of
the Alarm Control. In the example, the string is replaced with "OLE-Control1". After
successful creation of the action, click "OK" to close the window.

7. Save your settings in the Graphics Designer.

8. Start Runtime. Click the "Tank 1" button to generate a message. Now, click
. The message is acknowledged, and the color of the message changes.

See also
How to Configure Buttons for Changing Message Tags (Page1083)
Configuration of the WinCC Alarm Control (Page1071)
Standard Functions for Operation of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1106)

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5.7.4

SQL Statements for Filtering of Messages in Alarm Control

Introduction
In WinCC Alarm Control, only the SQL statements that can also be generated using the
selection dialog of the message window are permitted. The following conditions apply to
WinCC:
The structure consists of "Field", "Operand", and "Value", with the individual parameters
separated by blanks. E.g.: DATETIME >= '2006-12-21 00:00:00' AND MSGNR >= 100 (all
messages as of 21.12.2006 with a message number greater than and equal to 100)
Character strings, date, and time must be passed in single quotation marks.
In the DATETIME argument, the date and time of day are separated by a blank. Regardless
of the time base setting in the object properties, the output of DATETIME is based on the
time base Local Time. The exception to this is when "UTC" is set as the time base. In this
case, output is based on the time base "UTC".

Permissible Arguments
Name

SQL name

Type

Data

Example:

Date/time

DATETIME

Date

'YYYY-MM-DD
hh:mm:ss.msmsms'

DATETIME >= '2007-05-03

16:00:00.000'
Outputs messages as of 03/05/2007,
16:00 hours.

Number

MSGNR

Integer

Alarm number

MSGNR >= 10 AND MSGNR <= 12

Outputs the messages with message
numbers 10 - 12.

Class/type

State

Priority

CLASS IN
AND TYPE
IN

Integer

STATE

Integer

PRIORITY

- Message class ID 1-16 and

system message classes17 + 18
- Message type ID 1-256 and
system message types 257, 258,
273, 274

Integer

CLASS IN ( 1 ) AND TYPE IN ( 2 )

Outputs messages of message class 1,
message type 2.

Value "ALARM_STATE_xx"

STATE IN(1,2,3)

Only the operands "=" and "IN(...)"

are permitted.

Outputs all messages that came in, went

out and were acknowledged.

ALARM_STATE_1
ALARM_STATE_2
ALARM_STATE_3
ALARM_STATE_4
ALARM_STATE_10
ALARM_STATE_11
ALARM_STATE_16
ALARM_STATE_17

Possible value:
1 = incoming messages
2 = outgoing messages
3 = acknowledged messages
4 = locked messages
10 = hidden messages
11 = shown messages
16 = messages acknowledged by the
system
17 = Emergency-acknowledged
messages

Message priority 0 - 16

PRIORITY >= 1 AND PRIORITY =< 5

Outputs messages that have a priority
between 1 and 5.

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Name

SQL name

Type

Data

Example:

AS Number

AGNR

Integer

AS Number

AGNR >= 2 AND AGNR <= 2

Outputs messages with the AS number
2.

CPU Number

AGSUBNR

Integer

AG sub-number

AGSUBNR >= 5 AND AGSUBNR <= 5

Outputs messages with AG sub-number
5.

Instance

INSTANCE

Text

Instance

Block: 1
...
Block: 10

TEXTxx

Text

Search text for Text1 - Text10

TEXT2 = "Error"
Outputs the messages whose Text2
corresponds with "Error".
TEXT2 IN ('Error','Fault')
Outputs the messages whose Text2
corresponds with the text "Error" or
"Fault".
TEXT2 LIKE 'Error'
Outputs the messages whose Text2
includes the text "Error".

Process value:
1
...
Process value:
10

PVALUExx

Double

Search value for PVALUE1PVALUE10

PVALUE1 >= 0 AND PVALUE1 <= 50

Outputs process value 1 with start value
0 and stop value 50.

Permissible Operands
>= , <= , = , > , <
IN(...) : Several values as an array, separated by commas, e.g.: CLASS IN( 1 ,2 ,3 ) AND
TYPE IN( 1 ,2 ,19 ,20 ,37 ,38 )
LIKE : Text must contain string, e.g.: TEXT1 LIKE 'Error' relays message where Text1
contains the search text "Error". The operand LIKE is only permitted for Text arguments.

Illegal arguments and operands

Only the arguments indicated in the table and operands from the list are permitted.
Grouping arguments, for example with brackets, is not permitted.

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6

Resources

6.1

Archiving Process Values

Content
WinCC can be used to:
Process and archive process values from a plant
Output process values in pictures or in reports.
The "Tag Logging" editor provides you with a number of wizards for the configuration of
archives.
This chapter contains
the basics of process value archiving
configuration instructions of the process value archiving, and
instructions for the output of process values.

6.2

Process Value Archiving in WinCC

Introduction
The archive system is used for the archiving of process values in Runtime. The archive system
processes the process values cached in the Runtime database and writes them to the archive
database.

The following WinCC subsystems are involved in the process value archiving:

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Automation system (AS): saves the process values that are sent to WinCC via
communication drivers.
Data manager (DM): processes the process values and returns them to the archive system
via process tags.
Archive system: processes the acquired process values (e.g. forming the average value).
The method of processing depends on the configuration of the archive.
Runtime database (DB): saves the process values that are to be archived.

Term definitions
The question of whether and when process values are acquired and archived is dependent
on a variety of parameters. The parameters to be configured for your project depend on the
applied archiving method.
Acquisition cycle: determines when the value of a process tag is read out in the automation
system. You might configure an acquisition cycle, for example, for the continuous cyclic
archiving of process values.
Archiving cycle: determines when the processed process value is saved in the archive
database. You might configure an archiving cycle, for example, for the continuous cyclic
archiving of process values.
Start event: starts process value archiving when a specified event occurs, for example when
the plant is turned on. You might configure a start event, for example, for a selective cyclic
archiving of process values.
Stop event: terminates process value archiving when a specified event occurs, for example
when the plant is turned off. You might configure a stop event, for example, for a selective
cyclic archiving of process values.
Event-controlled archiving: Process values are archived when a certain event occurs, for
e.g. when marginal values are exceeded. You can configure event-controlled archiving in
acyclic archiving of process values.
Archiving process values during changes: Process values are archived only when they
have been changed. You can configure the archiving in acyclic archiving of process values.

See also
Process Value Archiving for Multi-User Projects (Page1118)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

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6.3

Basics of Process Values Archiving

6.3.1

Basics of Process Values Archiving

Introduction
The process value archiving serves for compiling, processing and archiving of process data
from an industrial plant. The process data gained can be filtered according to important
economic and technical criteria relating to the operating status of a plant.

Principle of Operation
The process values to be archived are compiled, processed and saved in the archive database
in Runtime. Current or previously archived process values can be output in Runtime as a table
or trend. In addition, it is possible to print out archived process values as a protocol.

Configuration
The process value archiving is configured in Tag Logging. There, you can configure process
value archives as well as compressed archives, define acquisition and archiving cycles and
select the process values to be archived.
WinCC Controls are configured in Graphics Designer to display process data in runtime. The
process data can be output in table or trend curve form.
The protocol output of archived process data is configured as a protocol in Report Designer.
The process value output in the protocol can be in table or trend curve form.

Application
The process value archiving can be used for the following tasks:
Early detection of danger and fault conditions
Increase of productivity
Increase of product quality
Optimization of maintenance cycles
Documentation of the progress of process values

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See also
Process Value Archiving in WinCC (Page1115)
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)

6.3.2

Process Value Archiving for Multi-User Projects

Introduction
In multi-user projects, process values can be archived by various servers. The following clientserver scenarios illustrate possible configurations.

Client/Server Scenarios
Scenario 1
Process value archiving runs on several servers (2). Clients (1) can access the process value
archives on the available servers:

Scenario 2
Message and process value archiving runs on one server (3), together with process
communication. All other servers (2) deal with process-oriented tasks (e.g. displaying pictures).
Clients (1) can access all available servers:

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Scenario 3
A server (3) without a process driver connection deals solely with message and process value
archiving. The server (3) collects the data from all other servers (2) through server-server
communication and distributes it to the clients (1):

See also
Process Value Archiving in WinCC (Page1115)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

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6.3.3

Process Values and Tags

6.3.3.1

Process Values and Tags

Principle
Process values are data stored in the memory of one of the connected automation systems.
They represent the status of a plant, for example, temperatures, fill levels or states (e.g. motor
off). To work with the process values, you define tags in WinCC.
The link between WinCC and the automation systems is provided by process tags, which
correspond to a certain process value in the memory of an automation system. The value of
a process tag is obtained by reading out the process value from the memory of the automation
system. On the other hand, a process value can also be written back to the memory of the
automation system.

See also
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Telegram Tags (Page1121)
External and Internal Tags (Page1120)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.3.2

External and Internal Tags

Introduction
External tags in WinCC are used for acquiring process values and access a memory address
in the connected automation system. External tags are therefore referred to as process tags.
Internal tags do not have a process link and only carry values within WinCC.
External and internal tags can be stored in archive tags in the process value archive.

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Note
As the primary task of process value archiving is the archiving of external tag values, this
documentation refers only to process tags.

Archive Tags
Process values are stored in archive tags in the process value archive. The system
distinguishes between the following types of archive tags:
Analog archive tags store numerical process values, e.g. the fill level of a tank.
Binary archive tags store binary process values, e.g. whether a motor is switched on or off.
Process-controlled tags store process values that have been sent to the archive system as
telegrams, e.g. process values in a series of measurements.
Archived process values can be compressed. This compression is achieved through the
application of mathematical functions (e.g. averaging). Compressed process values of this
type are stored in compressed tags in a compressed archive.

See also
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Telegram Tags (Page1121)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.3.3

Telegram Tags

Introduction
Telegramtags are needed for the acquisition of quickly changing process values, or if you want
to combine several measuring points from one plant.
Note
Telegram tags are of the "raw data type" in WinCC and are therefore also referred to a "raw
data tags".

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Principle
In the automation system the process values are written to a binary file, and are sent as a
telegram to WinCC where they are stored in a raw data tag.

Archiving of Telegrams
If you want the acquired process values belonging to a raw data tag to be archived, you need
to configure a process-controlled tag in the process value archive. To enable the archive
system to process the telegram in the process-controlled tag, select a format DLL. The format
DLL is supplied with the automation system that you are using and dismantles the telegram
(e.g. to ascertain the process values). The process values are then written to the archive
database.
A format DLL for the SIMATIC S7 is included as standard in the scope of delivery of WinCC.

See also
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
External and Internal Tags (Page1120)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Process Value Archiving in WinCC (Page1115)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.3.4

Structure of a Telegram with Raw Data Tags

Introduction
A telegram for the transfer of raw data tags consists of two parts: a header and a body.

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Telegram header
The header contains general data, i.e. length of the telegram. The high byte of data word 0 is
not used by the system and might thus be assigned by the user as required.

Telegram body
In the block status word, the format of the measurement values and the format of the
measurement areas, among other things, are defined. Bit 10 is reserved and will be used in
future versions for switching daylight saving and standard times (daylight saving time = 1).

Time and date are structured in accordance with the definition of the sequential time indication.

To transfer a measurement area, 8 data words are necessary. In these words, the upper and
lower limits of the tag and the archive are specified.

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The following section contains a number of sample telegram types.

Type 1
Measured value of a process tag + date and time

Type 2
n measured values of a process tag + date and time of each measured value

Type 3
n measured values of a process tag with date and time, and sampling cycle

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Type 4
n measured values of various process tags with time and date

Type 5
n measured values of various process tags without time and date

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6.3.3.5

Diagnostic Tags of Tag Logging Runtime

Tag logging has some diagnostics tags which enable the current archiving rate of the system
to be established.
Diagnostic tags are created as internal tags in the WinCC Explorer and are part of the
"TagLoggingRT" tag group.

@TLGRT_TAGS_PER_SECOND
The tag specifies the average archiving rate of Tag Logging cyclically as an archive tag per
second.

@TLGRT_AVARAGE_TAGS_PER_SECOND
The tag specifies the arithmetic average value of the average archiving rate of Tag Logging
cyclically as an archive tag per second since Runtime as started.

@TLGRT_SIZEOF_NOTIFY_QUEUE
This tag contains the current number of entries in the ClientNotify queue. All local trend and
table windows receive current data via this queue.

@TLGRT_SIZEOF_NLL_INPUT_QUEUE
This tag contains the current number of entries in the queue for the format DLL. This queue is
used to store the values transmitted by raw data tags.

6.3.4

Archiving Methods

6.3.4.1

Archiving Methods

Introduction
You can use different archiving methods to archive process values. You can therefore e.g.
monitor a single process value at any point in time and make the monitoring dependent on
certain events. You can archive quickly changing process values without increasing the system
load in doing so. You can compress process values already archived to reduce the data
volume.

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Archiving methods
The following archiving methods are available in Runtime:
Continuous cyclic process value archiving: continuous process value archiving (e.g.
monitoring a process value).
Cyclic-selective process value archiving: Event-controlled, continuous process value
archiving, for example for monitoring a process value within a specific period of time.
Acyclic process value archiving: event-controlled process value archiving (e.g. archiving a
current process value when a critical limit value is exceeded).
Archiving process values during changes: Process values are archived in a acylic manner
only when they have been changed.
Process-controlled process value archiving: archiving of several process tags or of rapidly
changing process values.
Compressed archive: compression of individual archive tags or of entire process value
archives (e.g. the hourly averaging of process values archived every minute).

See also
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.4.2

Cycles and Events

Introduction
Process value archiving is controlled by cycles and events. The acquisition and archiving
cycles enable continuous acquisition and archiving of process values. Furthermore, process
value archiving can also be triggered or ended by events and actions. Cycles and events may
be combined: A process value is for example acquired regularly; archiving is however only
triggered by a binary event.

Acquisition cycle
The acquisition cycle determines the interval at which the process value of a process tag is
read. The shortest possible value is 500 ms. All other values are integer multiples of this value.
The starting point of an acquisition cycle is determined by the run-up time of the WinCC
Runtime.

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Note
A short acquisition cycle may lead to a high system load. Use telegram tags in case of frequent
or fast process value changes.

Archiving cycle
The archiving cycle determines when a process value is saved in the archive data bank. The
archiving cycle is always an integer multiple of the acquisition cycle. The starting point of the
archiving cycle depends on either the run-up time of WinCC Runtime or the starting point of
the time used.
Specification of a starting point allows for delay archiving and a more even distribution of the
archiving load. Examples:
Process values are archived in three cycles: every minute, every two minutes, and every
three minutes. This causes a high archiving load every six minutes. Assign a different
starting point to each of the three cycles. For example, archive every minute at the 15th
second, every two minutes at the 30th second, and every three minutes at the 45th second.
The archiving load is thus distributed.
Many process values must be archived every ten seconds. In order to distribute the
archiving load you can, for example, configure two "10 second" cycles with different starting
points. Archiving is carried out at the 0th and the 5th second.
All process values read from the process tags during the time period between acquisition and
archiving will be processed by the archiving function. In the process value archive, you can
use only one of the following archiving functions:
Current value: Saves the last acquired process value.
Total: Saves the sum of all acquired process values.
Maximum value: Saves the highest of all acquired process values.
Minimum value: Saves the lowest of all acquired process values.
Average value: Saves the mean of all acquired process values.
Action: The most recently acquired process value is calculated, using a function created in
Global Script.
Note
If the same cycle is used for acquisition and archiving, it does not necessarily mean that
acquisition and archiving are started simultaneously.
There might be a system delay of up to the length of an acquisition cycle between
acquisition and archiving.

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Start/Stop Events and Actions

Events start and end process value archiving. Conditions which trigger an event can be linked
to a tag or to scripts (C, VBS). In WinCC, events / actions are differentiated as follows:
Binary action: Response to changes in a Boolean process tag. Example: turning on a motor
might start the archiving of a process value.
Limit value event: Triggered by a limit value being exceeded or reached. Limit value events
might be in absolute or scaled numbers. Example: temperature fluctuations of more than
2% might trigger archiving.
Time-controlled event: Triggered when a fixed point in time is reached, or a defined period
of time from the start time of the process value archiving has elapsed. Example: a report
is generated after each shift change.

See also
How to Configure a New Timer (Page1151)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.4.3

Continuous cyclic process value archiving

Introduction
Continuous cyclic process value archiving begins when Runtime is started. The process values
are acquired at fixed cycles and stored in the archive database. Continuous cyclic process
value archiving ends when Runtime is terminated.

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Mode of Operation

Each process tag in WinCC corresponds to a certain process value in the memory of one of
the connected automation systems (A). The acquisition cycle (1) governs when the process
value is read out from the memory of the connected automation system.
The Runtime component of the archive system (C) processes the process value:
Whether the process value is archived at all depends on the way you have configured the
system. Example: the process value must be changed by a certain amount or percentage
(2).
The archiving function (3) determines how the acquired process values are to be processed
(e.g. averaging).
The archiving cycle (4) determines when the processed process value is written to the archive
database (D).
Note
If you have configured a fast acquisition cycle but a slow archiving cycle, it may give the
impression when displaying the values in the controls, that no more values will be archived.
This is because the control updates are based on the archiving cycles.
If you want the values in the controls to be updated with the acquisition cycle, activate the
option "Refresh cyclic values in the acquisition cycle" in the project properties in the "Tag
Logging" editor. The project properties are opened by clicking with the right mouse-button on
the project name in the navigation window in Tag Logging.

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See also
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.4.4

Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving

Introduction
The cyclic-selective process value archiving is started in Runtime as soon as a start event
occurs. The process values are subsequently acquired at fixed cycles and stored in the archive
database.
The cyclic process value archiving ends in the following cases:
When a stop event occurs
When you terminate Runtime
When the start event no longer exists
The start event or the stop event is determined from the value or the return value of the
configured tags or script. You configure the tags or scripts in Tag Logging in the properties of
the process value tags in the "Actions" area.

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Mode of Operation

Each process tag in WinCC corresponds to a certain process value in the memory of one of
the connected automation systems (A). Process value archiving begins on the occurrence of
the start event (1). The acquisition cycle (2) governs when the process value is read out from
the memory of the connected automation system.
The Runtime component of the archive system (C) processes the process value:
Whether the process value is archived at all depends on the way you have configured a
hysteresis. The process value must be changed by a certain amount or percentage (3).
The processing method (4) determines how the acquired process values are processed,
e.g. by averaging.
Until the occurrence of the Stop event (6), the archiving cycle (5) determines when the
processed process value is written to the archive database (D).

See also
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

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6.3.4.5

Acyclic Process Value Archiving

Introduction
Acyclic process value archiving uniquely saves during runtime the current process value in the
archive database. The following is archived:
every time the process value changes.
if a trigger variable assumes a value of "1" and then takes on value "0" again. The
prerequisite is that you have configured an event with a tag for the acyclic process value
archiving.
If a script receives return value "TRUE" and then takes on the return value "FALSE" again.
The prerequisite is that you have created an event with a script for the acyclic process value
archiving.

Mode of Operation

Each process tag in WinCC corresponds to a certain process value in the memory of one of
the connected automation systems (A).
If the tag takes on a value of "1" and then a value of "0" again or the script takes on return
value "TRUE" and then "FALSE" again with a configured event (1), the process value is
archived.
If you have not configured an event, then each process value change is read from the memory
of the connected automation system (2).
The Runtime component of the archive system (C) processes the process value.
The current process value is then written to the archive database (D) (3).
Acyclic process value archiving ends when Runtime is terminated

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See also
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.4.6

Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving

Introduction
Process-controlled process value archiving is used for archiving several process tags or rapidly
changing process values. The process values are written to a telegram tag, which is decoded
by the archive system. The process values obtained in this way are then stored in the archive
database.

Principle

Each process tag in WinCC corresponds to a certain process value in the memory of one of
the connected automation systems (A). At the start of Runtime, the process values of the
selected process tags are read out (1) and written to the configured telegram tag as binary
data.
The Runtime component of the archive system (C) processes the telegram tag:
The format DLL (2) is part of the archive system and decodes the binary data of the telegram
tag.
The decoded process values are then written to the archive database (D) (3).

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See also
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Telegram Tags (Page1121)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.4.7

Compressed Archive

Introduction
In order to reduce the volume of data in the archive database, the archive tags for a specified
period can be compressed. To do this a compressed archive is created, which stores each
archive tag in a compressed tag. The archive tags are retained, but they can also be copied,
moved or deleted. The compressed archive is stored in the archive database in the same way
as the process value archive.

Mode of Operation
This compression is achieved through the application of mathematical functions. To achieve
this, one of the following functions is applied to the archived process values in a specified
period of time:
Max. Value: The highest process value is saved in the compressed tag.
Min. Value: The lowest process value is saved in the compressed tag.
Average value: The average process value is saved in the compressed tag.
Weighted Average Value: Saves the weighted average value of the process values in the
compressed tag. The time span, in which a recorded value has the same value, is
considered in the calculation of the weighted average value.
Sum: The sum of all process values is saved in the compressed tag.
What happens to the old archived process values after compression depends on which method
of compression is used:
Calculate: the process values of the archive tags of the specified period are read out and
compressed. The process values of the archive tags are retained.
Calculate and copy: the process values of the archive tags of the specified period are read
out, compressed and copied to the compressed archive.

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Calculate and delete: the process values of the archive tags of the specified period are read
out, compressed and then deleted.
Calculate, copy, and delete: the process values of the archive tags of the specified period
are read out, compressed and moved to the compressed archive.

Example
The following examples illustrate the way that the compressed archive works:
Average value: A process value is archived once every minute and returns 60 values in
one hour. The compression with the average value is performed over a period of one hour.
Every hour, the average value is formed from the 60 values and is stored in the compressed
tag. What happens to the 60 values depends on the compression method described above.
Weighted Average Value: A process value is acquired every second and returns 60 values
in one minute. The value is "50" for 40 seconds, the value is "60" for 20 seconds The
compression with the weighted average value is performed over a period of one minute.
Every minute, the weighted average value of 60 values is archived, therefore 40x50 +
20x60 / 60 = 53.33.

See also
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.5

Storing Process Values

Introduction
Process values can be stored either on hard disk in the archive database or in the main memory
of Tag Logging Runtime.

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Storing in Archive Database

The process values to be archived are stored in two separate cyclic archives (A, B) in the
archive database. Each cyclic archive consists of a configurable number of data buffers. The
data buffer is defined in terms of size in MB, and a period of time (e.g. one day).

The process values are written continuously in the data buffers (1). When the configured size
of the data buffer is reached or the time periods exceeded, the system switches to the next
one (2). When all the data buffers are full, the process data in the first data buffer is overwritten
(3). In order that process data is not destroyed by the overwritten process, it can be swapped
(exported).
Cyclic archive A stores the process values whose acquisition cycle is less than or equal to one
minute. These process values are initially saved and compressed in a binary file. When the
binary file has reached a specific size, it is stored in the cyclic archive.
Cyclic archive B stores process values whose acquisition cycle is greater than one minute and
compressed archives. The data is written immediately in the cyclic archive and not compressed.
Note
When starting Runtime, the system tests whether the configured size of a data buffer has
been calculated to a sufficient size. If the configured size is too small, the system automatically
adapts to the minimum size.

Saving in Main Memory

In contrast with storage in the archive database, process values archived in the main memory
are only available for as long as Runtime is active. Storing in the main memory has the
advantage, however, that the values can be written and read out very quickly. The process
values stored in the main memory cannot be swapped out.

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Note
Compressed archives cannot be saved in the main memory.

See also
How to Configure an Archive Backup (Page1177)
How to Configure Archive (Page1175)
How to Configure the Data Buffer on the Hard Disk (Page1174)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Swapping Out Process Values (Page1138)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.3.6

Swapping Out Process Values

Introduction
You can swap out process values from the archive database as a backup. All process values
contained in a data puffer are swapped out. When the swapping-out actually takes place
depends on how you configure the system.

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General procedure
You configure the swapping-out of process values in Tag Logging in the "Archive
Configuration" dialog. This is where you configure the data buffer on the hard disk and the
swap-out settings:

On the Archive Configuration tab enter the settings for the individual data buffers and specify
what period of time is to be contained in the archive.
On the "Backup Configuration" tab, specify whether you want to create a backup of the archived
process values and where the backup is to be stored.
Note
You can change the displayed process value in runtime using Online Table Control.
If the location of the archive segment where the process value is stored has already been
changed, then the modified value is not accepted in the shifted archive. The change is done
only in the local archive segment.
If the archive segment has not yet been moved out, then the changed value is accepted
permanently.

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Long-term archive server

The long-term archive server is used for backing up process value archives. Swap files can
be accessed in three different ways:
Copy swap files onto the configuration computer on which Runtime is run. Link the swap
files to the project in the Alarm Logging or Tag Logging. The archived values are displayed
in Runtime.
Access via OLE-DB
Access via DataMonitor Web Edition
To set up a long-term archive server, run the WinCC "Fileserver Setup" on the computer. A
minimum installation of WinCC is then installed on the computer. In order to be able to access
the stored process value archive with ADO/OLE DB, the MS SQL server is also installed.

See also
How to Configure an Archive Backup (Page1177)
How to Configure Archive (Page1175)
How to Configure the Data Buffer on the Hard Disk (Page1174)
Direct Access to the Archive Database (Page1423)
Storing Process Values (Page1136)

6.3.7

Significance of Archive Value Flags

For each value written to the archive, Tag Logging will set a flag which provides information
on the tag state.
Representation of this flag is in the form of a 2-word value, encoded in decimal form and listed
in the 3rd column of the data bank archive. This flag must be converted to its hexadecimal
representation for analysis purposes.

The high word contains the WinCC status flag or quality code and the low word contains the
tag logging status flags, as well as a code for the content of the high word.

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Code for High Word Content:

Description

0x0

High word contains WinCC status flags

0x1

High word contains quality code

Quality Code

WinCC Status Flags

Tag Logging Status Flags:

Name of flag

Value

Description

PDE_RT_DAYLIGHT

0x001

Summer time

PDE_RT_SUBSTITUTION

0x002

Substitute value

PDE_RT_TIME_BEVOR_JUMP

0x004

Value prior to time jump

PDE_RT_TIME_BEHIND_JUMP

0x008

Value after time jump

PDE_RT_TIME_OVERLAPPED

0x010

Values during time overlap

PDE_RT_LOAD_SYSTEM

0x020

Value initially archived after archive creation

PDE_RT_RELOAD_SYSTEM

0x040

Initial value after archiving of RT

PDE_RT_CMPCOPY

0x080

Compressed value

PDE_RT_TIME_CHANGED

0x100

Time change took place

PDE_RT_HAND

0x200

Manual tag supply

Examples
Value in database

16842753

Hexadecimal
representation

0101 0001

Coding for high word

0: High word contains WinCC status flag

Tag logging status flag

001: Summer time

WinCC status flag

0101: Link to partner not established; tag initialization value

Value in database

266242

Hexadecimal representation

0004 1002

Coding for high word

1: High word contains quality code

Tag logging status flag

002: Substitute value

Quality Code

0004: Configuration error, value not accepted

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6.4

Configuration of Process Value Archiving

6.4.1

Configuration of Process Value Archiving

Introduction
The process value archiving is configured in Tag Logging. There, you can define the process
values to be archived. WinCC provides you with the process value archive and the compressed
archive for the archiving of process values.

General Procedure
The configuration procedure for process value archives consists of the following steps:
1. Configuring the process value archive: In Tag Logging, the process value archive is created
and the process tags are selected with the help of the "Archive Wizard".
2. Creating the archive tags: Define whether and when a process value is to be archived for
each archive tag.

See also
How to Link an Archive Backup (Page1180)
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Tag Logging (Page1142)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)

6.4.2

Tag Logging

Introduction
In Tag Logging, the archives, the process values to be archived and the times for the acquisition
and archiving cycles are configured. In addition, you also specify the configuration of the data
buffer on the hard disk and the swapping out of process values in Tag Logging.
As with all editors in WinCC, to start Tag Logging double-click it in WinCCExplorer.

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Structure of Tag Logging

Tag Logging is divided into the navigation window, data window and table window.

(1) Navigation window

Here you can choose whether you want to edit times or archives.

(2) Data window

Depending on the selection you made in the navigation window, here you can edit existing
archives or times or create new ones.

(3) Table window

The table window is where the archive tags or compressed tags are displayed that are stored
in the archive that is selected in the data window. You can change the properties of the
displayed tags here or add a new archive tag or compressed tag.

See also
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)

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6.4.3

Configuring Archives

6.4.3.1

Configuring Archives

Principle
For the configuration of archives, the system distinguishes between the following archive types:
The process value archive stores process values in archive tags. When configuring the
process value archive you select the process tags that are to be archived and the storage
location.
The compressed archive compresses archive tags from process value archives. When
configuring the compressed archive you select a calculation method and the compression
time period.

See also
How to Configure Compressed Archives (Page1147)
How to Configure a Process Value Archive (Page1144)
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Compressed Archive (Page1135)
Process-Controlled Process Value Archiving (Page1134)
Acyclic Process Value Archiving (Page1133)
Cyclic-Selective Process Value Archiving (Page1131)
Continuous cyclic process value archiving (Page1129)

6.4.3.2

How to Configure a Process Value Archive

Introduction
The procedure for the configuration of a process value archive is broken down into the following
steps:
1. Creating process value archive: Create the new process value archive and select the tags
that are to be archived.
2. Configuring the process value archive: Configure the process value archive by selecting
the memory location, etc.

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Procedure
Creating Process Value Archive
1. In the navigation window of Tag Logging, right-click "Archives". From the pop-up menu,
select the "Archive Wizard..." command. The "Creating an archive" dialog is opened.
2. Enter an appropriate name in "Archive name". "Process value archive" is already selected.
Click "Next".
3. Click "Select" to select the tags whose values you wish to be archived. You can add further
tags after you have created the process value archive.
4. Click "Apply". The new process value archive is included in the Tag Logging data window.
The selected tags are displayed in the table window.

Configuring Process Value Archive

1. In the Tag Logging data window, double-click the process value archive you wish to
configure. The "Process Value Archive Properties" dialog is opened.
2. Enter the name of the process value archive on the "General Information" tab. If you are
working in a multi-user system, also select the server.

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3. On the "Memory location" tab, select the memory location and enter the data record size.

4. Close the dialog by clicking "OK".

Note
You can define default settings for process value archives in the Tag Logging navigation
window. Each newly created process value archive will then be preconfigured with the
parameters that you have set.
Right-click the "Archive" button and then select "Default settings" > "Process value archive"
from the pop-up menu.

See also
How to Configure a New Timer (Page1151)
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

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6.4.3.3

How to Configure Compressed Archives

Introduction
The procedure for the configuration of a compressed archive consists of the following steps:
1. Creating the compressed archive: Create the new compressed archive and select the tags
to be archived.
2. Configuring the compressed archive: Configure the compressed archive by selecting the
memory location, calculation method, etc.
3. Creating the compressed tag: Select the archive tags to be included in the compressed
archive.

Procedure
Creating Compressed Archive
1. In the navigation window of Tag Logging, right-click "Archives". From the pop-up menu,
select the "Archive Wizard..." command. The "Creating an archive" dialog is opened.
2. Enter an appropriate name in "Archive name" and select "Compressed archive". Click
"Apply". The new compressed archive is included in the Tag Logging data window.

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Configuring Compressed Archive

1. In the Tag Logging data window, double-click the compressed archive that you wish to
configure. The "Properties of compressed archive" dialog is opened.
2. Enter a name for the compressed archive on the "General Information" tab. If you are
working in a multi-user system, select the server on which the compressed archive is to be
stored.

3. On the "Compression" tab, select the calculation method and the compression time period.

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4. For compression time periods, all times created in Tag Logging that are greater than 1
minute are available. If the desired compression time period is not available, first configure
it in Tag Logging as a new time period and set the compression time period afterwards.

5. Close the dialog by clicking "OK".

Note
You can define default settings for compressed archives in the Tag Logging navigation
window. Each newly created compressed archive will then be preconfigured with the
parameters that you have set.
Right-click the "Archive" button and select "Default settings" > "Compressed archive" from
the pop-up menu.

Creating Compressed Tag

The procedure is explained in this documentation under "Creating Compressed Tags".

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See also
How to Configure a New Timer (Page1151)
How to Create a Compressed Tag (Page1170)
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

6.4.4

Creating Archive Tags

6.4.4.1

Creating Archive Tags

General procedure
Archive tags are used to save the process values to be archived. The following archive tags
can be used in a process value archive:
A binary archive tag is used for storing binary process values.
An analog archive tag is used for storing numeric process values.
A process-controlled tag is used for storing process values which have been sent to the
archive system as a telegram.
In a compressed archive each compressed process value is stored in a separate compressed
tag.

Basic procedure
In the case of binary and analog archive tags you specify the archiving type (e.g. cyclic) and
acquisition and archiving cycles. Depending on the archiving type, select events and actions
which trigger or end archiving. Depending on the type of archive tag, specify the display limits
and parameters for processing the process values.
When configuring a compressed tag, select the compression function that for example forms
the average value from the process values that are to be compressed.
Note
In Tag Logging, if you delete, save and subsequently recreate a tag with the same name as
the deleted tag, the values of the deleted tag can no longer be accessed for display or
archiving. Reason: The newly created archive tag is assigned a new ID. The ID of the deleted
archive tag is no longer accessible.

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See also
How to Create a Compressed Tag (Page1170)
How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag (Page1167)
How to Create an Analog Archive Tag (Page1159)
How to Create a Binary Archive Tag (Page1153)
How to Configure a New Timer (Page1151)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

6.4.4.2

How to Configure a New Timer

Introduction
If you wish to use timers for acquisition and archiving cycles other than the standard timers,
you can configure new timers. The new timer is calculated on a defined basis (for example 1
second), multiplied with an integer factor.

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Procedure
1. In the navigation window of Tag Logging, right-click "Timers". From the pop-up menu, select
the "New..." command. The "Timers Properties" dialog is opened.

2. Define the new timer: Enter a name, select the desired basis from the list, and enter an
integer factor.
3. Under "Starting point of the cycle" you can enter additional properties for the new timer. By
entering the new starting point, you can specify when an archiving is executed by the cycle
(e.g. at the 0th second every 7 seconds). Specification of the starting point allows for an
even distribution of the archiving load.
4. Click "OK" to apply the new timer. It is displayed in the data window and can be selected
as the acquisition and archiving cycle.

See also
How to Create a Compressed Tag (Page1170)
How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag (Page1167)
How to Create an Analog Archive Tag (Page1159)
How to Create a Binary Archive Tag (Page1153)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)

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6.4.4.3

How to Create a Binary Archive Tag

Introduction
The procedure for the creation of binary archive tags consists of two steps:
1. Creating the binary archive tag: Select the process tag whose process value is to be stored
in the binary archive tag.
2. Configuring the binary archive tag. You can define the following settings:
Properties of archive tags
Archiving type and acquisition of archiving
Archiving parameters

Procedure
Creating Binary Archive Tag
1. In the Tag Logging data window, select the archive in which you wish to create a new binary
archive tag. Right-click the table window and select the "New tag" menu option from the
pop-up menu.
2. In the "Tags" window select the binary tag whose value you wish to archive. You also have
the option to create a new binary tag.
3. Click "OK" to accept the selected tag in the Tag Logging table window.

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Configuring the Properties of Archive Tags

1. Select the process value archive in the Tag Logging data window. In the table window, rightclick the binary archive tag and select the "Properties" menu option from the pop-up menu.
The "Process tag properties" dialog is opened.

2. In the "Archive Tag" tab change, if required, the name of the archive tag.
3. Define whether the archive tags are provided manually or by the same.
4. In the "Archiving" group, define whether archiving is to be released at system start. Activate
the control box "Relevant long term" if the archive tag is viewed by the Central Archive
Server (CAS) as a tag with long-term relevance.
5. The value of the archive tag can also be written into an internal tag in order to use the
archived tags for other purposes. The update process is determined by the cycle settings
for the archive tag. Select the internal tag by clicking the "Select" button.

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Configure Archiving type and Acquisition of Archiving

1. Select the archiving type and acquisition in the "Archiving" tab. You can configure four
archiving methods:
Continuous cyclic process value archiving
Cyclic-selective Archiving
Acyclic, event-controlled archiving
Acyclic archiving when process values are modified
2. For continuous cyclic archiving, select the "cyclic" archiving type in the "Archiving" tab. Set
the archiving cycle.

3. For cyclic-selective archiving, you can also configure the start and stop events in the
"Actions" group. Use "..." to select a tag in Tag Management or a C-Script in the Function
Browser. The tag or function must return the values "1" or "0" or the return values "TRUE"
or "FALSE". If the value TRUE occurs, the archiving is started or closed as the case may
be.

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4. For a acyclic, event-controlled archiving, you need to define the basic event in the "Events"
group. Use "..." to select a tag in Tag Management or a C-Script in the Function Browser.
The tag or function must return the values "1" or "0" or the return values "TRUE" or "FALSE".
If the value "1" or "TRUE" occurs, archiving is done one time.

5. To archive process tags due to change in values, select archiving type "acyclic" and "On
Change" for acquisition. In WinCC Controls, define a cycle for the display to display values
that have not been modified for a long time. Otherwise, in the long run, the value will
disappear from the display. Activate option "Archive after segment change", if during a
segment change, the process value of the tags are also to be archived if the value has not
been changed.

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Configure Archiving Parameters

1. In the "Archiving" section on the "Parameters" tab, specify when the process value is to be
archived. Select "always", if the current process value is always to be displayed in the trend
display.
2. In the "Save on error" field define the error value that is to be accepted.

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3. In the "Number of values" group you can enter values for the leader and trailer when the
start and stop actions are configured for a cyclic-selective archiving. The actions are called
and edited in the acquisition cycle depending on the leader or trailer buffer of the application.

4. Complete configuration of the binary archive tag by clicking "OK".

In the Tag Logging table window, the archiving type and acquisition of archiving tags are
combined in the "Acquisition type" column. For acyclic, event-controlled archiving, "acyclic" is
entered in the column; "Archiving on change" is entered when there is a change in the process
value.
Note
You can define default settings for binary archive tags in the Tag Logging navigation window.
Each newly added binary archive tag will then be preconfigured with the parameters that you
have set.
Right-click "Archive" and then select the "Default settings" > "Binary tag" menu option from
the pop-up menu.

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See also
How to Create a Compressed Tag (Page1170)
How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag (Page1167)
How to Create an Analog Archive Tag (Page1159)
How to Configure a New Timer (Page1151)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

6.4.4.4

How to Create an Analog Archive Tag

Introduction
The procedure for the creation of analog archive tags consists of two steps:
1. Creating the analog archive tag: Select the process tag whose process value is to be stored
in the analog archive tag.
2. Configuring the analog archive tag: You can define the following settings:
Properties of archive tags
Archiving type and acquisition of archiving
Archiving parameters
the display area or the adding area of the archive tags

Procedure
Creating Analog Archive Tag
1. In the Tag Logging data window, select the archive in which you wish to create a new analog
archive tag. Right-click the table window and select the "New tag" menu option from the
pop-up menu.
2. In the "Tags" window, select the tag whose value you wish to archive. You can also create
a new tag.
3. Click "OK" to accept the selected tag in the Tag Logging table window.

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Configuring the Properties of Archive Tags

1. Select the process value archive in the Tag Logging data window. In the table window, rightclick the analog archive tag and select the "Properties" menu option from the pop-up menu.
The "Process tag properties" dialog is opened.

2. In the "Archive Tag" tab change, if required, the name of the archive tag.
3. Define whether the archive tags are provided manually or by the same.
4. In the "Archiving" group, define whether archiving is to be released at system start. Activate
the control box "Relevant long term" if the archive tag is viewed by the Central Archive
Server (CAS) as a tag with long-term relevance.
5. The value of the archive tag can also be written into an internal tag in order to use the
archived tags for other purposes. The update process is determined by the cycle settings
for the archive tag. Select the internal tag by clicking the "Select" button.

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Configure Archiving type and Acquisition of Archiving

1. Select the archiving type and acquisition in the "Archiving" tab. You can configure four
archiving methods:
Continuous cyclic process value archiving
Cyclic-selective Archiving
Acyclic, event-controlled archiving
Acyclic archiving when process values are modified
2. For continuous cyclic archiving, select the "cyclic" archiving type in the "Archiving" tab.
Define the acquisition cycle and the archiving cycle in the "Archiving" group. In the
Hysteresis filed, configure whether only the process value that is absolute ("abs") or relative
("in %") above or below the given threshold is to be archived.

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3. For cyclic-selective archiving, you can also configure the start and stop events in the
"Actions" group. Use "..." to select a tag in Tag Management or a C-Script in the Function
Browser. The tag or function must return the values "1" or "0" or the return values "TRUE"
or "FALSE". If the value TRUE occurs, the archiving is started or closed as the case may
be.

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4. For an acylic, event-controlled archiving, select archiving type as "acyclic" and acquisition
as "event-controlled' on the Archiving tab. In the Events group, define the underlying event.
Use "..." to select a tag in Tag Management or a C-Script in the Function Browser. The tag
or function must return the values "1" or "0" or the return values "TRUE" or "FALSE". If the
value "1" or "TRUE" occurs, archiving is done one time.

5. To archive process tags due to change in values, select archiving type "acyclic" and "On
Change" for acquisition. In WinCC Controls, define a cycle for the display to display values
that have not been modified for a long time. Otherwise, in the long run, the value will
disappear from the display. Activate option "Archive after segment change", if during a
segment change, the process value of the tags are also to be archived if the value has not
been changed.

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Configure Archiving Parameters

1. For cyclic archiving, select an archiving function in the "Parameter" tab. If the Action" option
is activated, the most recently recorded process value is calculated through a function
created by Global Script. Use the "Select" button to call the Function Browser.
2. In the "Number of values" group you can enter values for the leader and trailer when the
start and stop actions are configured. The actions are called and edited in the acquisition
cycle depending on the leader or trailer buffer of the application.
3. In the "Save on error" field define the error value that is to be accepted.

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Configure the display area or the adding area of the archive tags
1. To archive or display only the process values that lie between the lower and upper limit,
select the "Configured directly" option in the Display tab.

2. Complete configuration of the analog archive tag by clicking "OK".

In the Tag Logging table window, the archiving type and acquisition of archiving tags are
combined in the "Acquisition type" column. For acyclic, event-controlled archiving, "acyclic" is
entered in the column; "Archiving on change" is entered when there is a change in the process
value.

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Note
You can define default settings for analog archive tags in the Tag Logging navigation window.
Each newly added analog archive tag will then be preconfigured with the parameters that you
have set.
Right-click "Archive" and then select the "Default settings" > "Analog tag" menu option from
the pop-up menu.

See also
How to Create a Compressed Tag (Page1170)
How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag (Page1167)
How to Create a Binary Archive Tag (Page1153)
How to Configure a New Timer (Page1151)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

6.4.4.5

How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag

Introduction
In order to acquire and archive rapidly changing process values or process values from several
measuring points, these values are sent from the AS to WinCC using a raw data tag. To archive
the data in archive tags, the assignment of a raw data tag to an archive tag is defined in a
process-controlled tag. Only raw data tags for the supply of values to archive tags can be
assigned in process-controlled tags.

Structure of the Archive Tag Name

When the process-controlled tag is configured, WinCC generates an internal archive tag name.
You have however the option to define an alias in the "Archive Tag Name" field in the
"Properties of process controlled tag" dialog. If no alias is entered, the internal archive tag
name is used for administration in the process value archive and addressing the archive tag
in WinCC.
The internal archive tag name is structured as follows:
when using format DLL "nrms7pmc.nll": #<raw_tag_name>#m#pppppppp#ssss
when using another format DLL (e.g. "S5STD.NLL"): #xxxxxxxxx#yyyy

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Parameters

Meaning

<raw_tag_name>

Name of raw data tags; maximum of 24 characters

(maximum length of total archive tag name: 52 characters)

Code "A" for raw data type "Archive data link"

pppppppp

Archive tag number "AR_ID"; eight-digit hexadecimal value

ssss

AR_ID sub number; four-digit hexadecimal value optional component of

name

xxxxxxxx

ID of raw data tags; eight-digit hexadecimal value

(maximum length of total archive tag name: 25 characters)

yyyy

Tag number; four-digit hexadecimal value decimal input

Note
When using the format DLL "nrms7pmc.nll", before WinCC Version 5.1 Hotfix, 4 the name of
the process-controlled archive tag was generated automatically. The name was limited to
maximum 25 characters and instead of the name of the raw data tag it contained its ID as an
eight-digit hexadecimal value. In projects that have been migrated to Version V5.1 HF4 or
higher, the archive tag names can continue to be used in the original structure with ID or they
can be converted to the new structure. The names are converted by once opening and closing
the properties dialog box of the process-controlled archive tags. An alias does not have to
be assigned.
If in a project all external tags are remapped using the "AS-OS-Transfer" function, the archive
tag name must therefore be converted once to the new structure! The new structure is then
maintained.

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Procedure
1. In the Tag Logging data window, select the process value archive in which you wish to
create a new process-controlled tag. Right-click the table window and select the "New
Process Controlled Tag" menu option from the pop-up menu. The "Properties of process
controlled tag" dialog is opened.

2. From the list, select the "format DLL" matching the controller being used.
3. Click "Select" in order to select the raw data tag in the tag selection dialog. When you have
selected the raw data tag, you are prompted to enter one or more IDs. The number of IDs
depends on the selected format DLL. Values are used to form the internal archive tag name.
4. If necessary, enter an alias for the process-controlled tag under "Archive Tag Name". If no
name is entered in this field, the internal archive tag name in WinCC is used.
5. Activate the control box "Long-time relevance" if the archive tag is viewed by the Central
Archive Server (CAS) as a tag with long-term relevance.
6. Click "OK" to accept the new process-controlled tag in the Tag Logging table window.

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See also
How to Create a Compressed Tag (Page1170)
How to Create an Analog Archive Tag (Page1159)
How to Create a Binary Archive Tag (Page1153)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

6.4.4.6

How to Create a Compressed Tag

Introduction
The procedure for creating a compressed tag consists of two steps:
1. Creating the compressed tag: Select the archive tags that are to be included in the
compressed archive.
2. Configuring the compressed tag: Select the method by which the process values are to be
compressed (e.g. averaging).

Requirement
The relevant compressed archive must have been created.

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Procedure
Creating Compressed Tag
1. Select a compressed archive in the Tag Logging data window. Right-click the table window
and select the "Select tag" menu option from the pop-up menu. The "Select Compressed
Tags" dialog is opened.

All available archives are displayed in the left half of the window.
2. To include an archive tag in the compressed archive, select the archive tag and click ">".
If you want to include all displayed archive tags, click ">>".
3. Click "OK" to transfer the compressed tags. A compressed tag appears in the table window
for each selected archive tag.

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Configuring Compressed Tag

1. Select the compressed archive in the Tag Logging data window. Right-click the compressed
tag in the table window and select the "Properties" menu option from the pop-up menu. The
"Properties of compressed tag" dialog is opened.

2. If necessary, change the name of the compressed tag.

3. In the "Archiving" group, define whether archiving is to be released at system start. Activate
the control box "Long-time relevance" if the archive tag is viewed by the Central Archive
Server (CAS) as a tag with long-term relevance.

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4. In the "Processing" section on the "Parameters" tab, select how the process values are to
be compressed.

5. Complete configuration of the compressed tag by clicking "OK".

See also
How to Create a Process-Controlled Tag (Page1167)
How to Create an Analog Archive Tag (Page1159)
How to Create a Binary Archive Tag (Page1153)
Configuring Archives (Page1144)
Creating Archive Tags (Page1150)
Process Values and Tags (Page1120)
Cycles and Events (Page1127)
Tag Logging (Page1142)

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6.4.5

How to Configure the Data Buffer on the Hard Disk

Introduction
In the case of a process value archive, it is possible to define whether the data buffer should
be stored on the hard disk or in the main memory.
In contrast with storage in the archive database, process values archived in the main memory
are only available for as long as Runtime is active. Storing in the main memory has the
advantage, however, that the values can be written and read out very quickly. The process
values stored in the main memory cannot be swapped out.
Note
Compressed archives can only be stored on the hard disk.

Procedure
1. In the data window, double-click the required process value archive whose data buffer is
to be configured. The "Properties" dialog is opened:.

2. Select the memory location on the "Archive Parameters" tab.

3. If you select "In the main memory" as the storage location, you must also enter the "Size
in data records".
4. Click "OK" to complete configuration of the data buffer.

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See also
Storing Process Values (Page1136)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.4.6

How to Configure Archive

Introduction
The Archive is configured in Tag Logging. The data buffer of an archive with an archiving cycle
of less than one minute is configured in "Tag Logging Fast". The data buffer of an archive with
an archiving cycle greater than one minute is configured in "Tag Logging Slow".
Note
Ensure that the archive size does not exceed the free memory space available. The archive
manager does not check the selected settings for plausibility. A high number of linked
database segments can lead to longer waiting periods in the system when starting and ending
Runtime.

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Procedure
1. Open Tag Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the "Tag Logging" navigation window, select the "Archive Configuration" entry. In the
data window, double-click "Tag Logging Slow" or "Tag Logging Fast". The "Archive
Configuration" dialog is opened.

3. Make the following settings for the archive:

Time period of all segments and its maximum size. This specification defines the size
of the archive database. If one of the criteria is exceeded, a new segment is started and
the oldest segment is deleted.
The period of time in which process values are to be archived in an individual segment,
and its maximum size. If either of these criteria is violated, a new individual segment is
started. When the criterion for "Time period of all segments" is exceeded, the oldest
individual segment is also deleted.
4. Enter the following under "Time of segment change":
Start date and start time for the first segment change.
5. Click "OK" to confirm your entry.

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Note
If you modify the archiving size (time range) in Runtime, such modifications take effect only
upon the next segment change.

Example:
In the above screen shot, the segment changes for the first time on January 17 at 23:59. The
next time-related segment change occurs at the configured time in the cycle defined in "Time
period covered by a single segment". The segment is also changed even if the configured size
("Max. size of all segments") is exceeded after starting Runtime. In this case, the oldest
individual segment is also deleted.

Changing the Archive Type

If the user does not change the respective settings, the archive tags are archived with a cycle
time of <= 1 min in the "Tag Logging Fast" process value archive. Archive tags with a cycle
time > 1 min are archived in the "Tag Logging Slow" process value archive. The cycle time of
archive tags must not be changed in Runtime beyond the above-mentioned limits. The change
of an archive tag from archive type "Fast" to "Slow" and vice-versa is not possible in Runtime.
Following a cycle change or reconfiguration, if tags are supposed to be stored in a different
archive type, said tags are read from the currently valid archive. Previous archive values of
this tag are not accessible in Runtime.
Following changes, if tags are no longer archived in "Tag Logging Fast" but in "Tag Logging
Slow" instead, the size of required databases for these tags may increase by several factors.
NOTICE
Runtime data in archives are deleted during a reset in the archive configuration of Tag
Logging. Only previously swapped-out databases remain intact.

See also
Swapping Out Process Values (Page1138)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.4.7

How to Configure an Archive Backup

Introduction
Create regular backups of your archive data in order to ensure seamless documentation of
your processes.

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Note
The backup normally starts 15 minutes after the first time-related segment change. If the start
of backup and start of segment should be synchronous with the start of Runtime, define the
start time for the segment change prior to the start of Runtime.
You can change the displayed process value in runtime using Online Table Control. If the
location of the archive segment where the process value is stored has already been changed,
then the modified value is not accepted in the shifted archive. The change is done only in the
local archive segment.
If the archive segment has not yet been moved out, then the changed value is accepted
permanently.

Procedure
1. Open Tag Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the "Tag Logging" navigation window, select the "Archive Configuration" entry. In the
data window, double-click "Tag Logging Slow" or "Tag Logging Fast". The "Archive
Configuration" dialog is opened.
3. Click the "Backup Configuration" tab.

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4. Activate the "Signing off activated" check box if the archive backup files are supposed to
contain a signature. Upon reconnection with WinCC, the signature allows the system to
determine whether any modifications have been made to the archive backup file after its
swap-out.
5. Select the "Activate Backup" check box, if the archived data are to be backed up. In addition,
select the "Backup to both paths" check box, if the archived data are to be saved in both
directories "Destination path" and "Alternative destination path".
6. Enter the destination path in which the backup files are to be stored. Network paths are
also valid as destination paths. The "Alternative destination path" is used when for instance:
the storage space on a backup medium is full;
the original destination path is not available, e.g. due to a network failure;
After the corresponding system messages have been configured, the messages are
output, if the specified path is not available.
7. Click "OK" to confirm your entry.

Results
The archive backup is stored in the specified destination path.

Structure of the Archive Backup File

An archive backup consists of two files, with the extensions LDF and MDF. In order to transfer
an archive backup, e.g. to another computer, copy the corresponding LDF and MDF files. The
file name is in the following form:
"<Computer_name>_<Project_name>_<Type>_<Time_from>_<Time_to>". The type is
defined by the archive type:
TLG_F: Process value archive with an archiving cycle of less than one minute ("Tag Logging
Fast")
TLG_S: Process value archive with an archiving cycle greater than one minute ("Tag
Logging Slow")
The period is specified in the following format: yyyymmddhhmm, e.g. 200212021118 for
December 2, 2002, 11:18 hours Underscores ("_") in the project name are displayed as "#".

Signing Off of Archive Backup Files

Upon activated signing off and activated backup, each archive backup file is signed off upon
swapping out. It is thus possible to determine upon reconnection of the file with WinCC whether
or not the file has been changed after swapping.
If you use archive signing-off, the maximum size of a single segment may not exceed 200 MB.
In order to verify the data, the "Signing off activated" check box must be selected. Longer
verification times result from connecting "Tag Logging Slow" archives. The "Link archive" menu
entry is gray-shaded for the duration of the connection.
For archiving of signed-off data, the following values apply:

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Archiving of signed-off data in Runtime

Values/second

Archiving in database for server/single user ("Tag Logging Fast")

1.000

Archiving in database for central archive server (Logging Fast Tag)

5.000

Archiving in database for server/single user ("Tag Logging Slow")

5001)

Archiving in database for central archive server (Logging Slow Tag)

5001)

During "Tag Logging Slow", you must expect longer picture selection times for identical
quantity structures than in "Tag Logging Fast".

1)

Note
If you deactivate signing off, for example in order to establish a quick link to the backup files,
any segment change during deactivation should be avoided. After the link has been
established, signing off should be reactivated in order to enable signing off for archived data.

See also
How to Link an Archive Backup (Page1180)
Swapping Out Process Values (Page1138)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.4.8

How to Link an Archive Backup

Introduction
In order to access a file in an archive backup in Runtime, connect the associated database
files to the project again. You can link to the archive yourself using the Tag Logging Editor, or
have the link established automatically.

Requirement
The corresponding LDF file and MDF file of the archive backup are located in a local directory
on the configuration computer, e.g. hard disk, MOD, or CD. The project is loaded on the
configuration computer and is located in Runtime.

Displaying the Process Values in Runtime

In Runtime, the archived process values are inserted in the display configured at the relevant
point according to the time stamp.

Further Access Options to Archive Backups

Apart from the options described above, you can use OLE-DB or DataMonitor Web Edition to
directly access the long-time archive server.

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Linking to the Archive Using the Tag Logging Editor

1. Open Tag Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the navigation window of Tag Logging, select the "Archive Configuration" entry. In the
data window, right-click "Tag Logging Slow" or "Tag Logging Fast" and select "Link archive"
from the pop-up menu.
3. Select the required database file and click "OK".
The database file is linked with to the project. The process values can be displayed directly
in Runtime.
If signing off is activated and you link a modified or unsigned archive backup file to the project,
you must acknowledge the link to these files, as the archive backup files are otherwise not
linked. A WinCC system message is generated and an entry is added to the Windows event
log in the "Application" section.
Longer verification times result from connecting "Tag Logging Slow" archives. The "Link
archive" menu entry is gray-shaded for the duration of the connection.

Automatic Linking to an Archive

1. Add the archive backup files to the "ProjectName\CommonArchiving" directory.
2. In Runtime, the process value archive is automatically linked to the project.

If signing off has been activated, modified signed-off archive backup files are not automatically
linked. A WinCC system message is generated and an entry is added to the Windows event
log in the "Application" section.

Linking an Archive Using a Script

Using the "DataLogs" VBS object, you can link the archive backup files to the WinCC project
using a script. The archive segments are then copied with the "Restore method" to the common
archiving directory of the Runtime project. For more information, refer to chapters "DataLogs
VBS Object" and "VBS Method 'Restore'".

See also
How to Configure Archive (Page1175)
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.4.9

How to Disconnect an Archive Backup

Introduction
If you no longer wish to access the data in an archive backup during Runtime, disconnect the
associated database files from the project.

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Requirement
Archive backup files are linked. The project is loaded on the configuration computer and is in
Runtime.

Procedure
1. Open Tag Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the navigation window of Tag Logging, select the "Archive Configuration" entry. In the
data window, right-click "Tag Logging Slow" or "Tag Logging Fast" and select "Disconnect
from Archive" from the pop-up menu.
3. Select the desired archive file and click "OK".
The link to the archive file is disconnected. You will no longer have access to the archived
process values in Runtime.
Automatically linked archives must be removed from the "Project name" directory. This can be
done manually or by using a script in "DataLogs" VBS object.

See also
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.4.10

How to Assign Archive Tags to Archive Types

Introduction
The process value archiving uses two different archive types for saving data:
"Tag Logging Slow" process value archive
"Tag Logging Fast" process value archive
The archive tags are automatically assigned to the respective archive type by WinCC.
However, you can change this assignment in Tag Logging.
In Runtime, a changed assignment will only be accepted when the project has been
deactivated and runtime is restarted.

Procedure
1. Open Tag Logging in WinCC Explorer.
2. In the "Tag Logging" navigation window, select the "Archive Configuration" entry. Doubleclick "Tag Logging Fast" in the data window. The "Archive Configuration" dialog is opened.

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3. Click the "Archive contents" tab.

4. If the acyclic measured value should be archived in the "Tag Logging Fast" process value
archive, select the "Event-controlled measured values" check box.
5. If all cyclic measured values should be archived at an archiving cycle shorter than or equal
to a limit value in the "Tag Logging Fast" archive, proceed as follows:
6. Select the "Cyclic measured values with cycle <=" check box.
7. Enter the required value for the upper limit of the archiving cycle.
8. If all compressed measured values should be archived at an archiving cycle shorter than
or equal to a limit value in the "Tag Logging Fast" archive, proceed as follows:
9. Select the "Compressed measured values with cycle <=" check box.
10.Enter the required value for the upper limit of the archiving cycle.
11.If the process-controlled measured value should be archived in the "Tag Logging Fast"
process value archive, select the "process-controlled measured value" check box.

Results
All the archive tags, for which these settings apply, are archived in the "Tag Logging Fast"
archive. All the archive tags to which these settings apply are archived in the "Tag Logging
Fast" archive.

See also
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)
Archiving Methods (Page1126)

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6.5

Output of Process Values

6.5.1

Output of Process Values

Introduction
You can output process values in process displays and as a report. You can also directly
access the archive database via various interfaces.

Process Value Output in Process Pictures

In Runtime you can output process values in tabular form or as trends. To do this you can load
process values from the archive database or monitor the running process directly.

Process Value Output in Reports

You can print out process values from the archive database as a report. You can also choose
between tabular and graphic output format. In the Report Designer, both output forms are
available as predefined layouts.

Direct Access to the Archive Database

--

See also
Process value output in reports (Page1313)
Configuration of Process Value Archiving (Page1142)
Basics of Process Values Archiving (Page1117)

6.5.2

Process Value Output in Process Pictures

6.5.2.1

Process value output in process pictures

Introduction
You have the option to display archived and current process values in Runtime. WinCC
provides two ActiveXControls that you insert as table windows or trend windows in a process
picture for this.

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Process Value Output in a Table

To display process values in table format in Runtime, use the WinCC OnlineTableControl. You
can connect the values in the table with archive tags or process tags.

Process value output in trends

To display process values in trend format in Runtime, use the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.
You can connect the values in the trend with archive tags or process tags.

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6.5.2.2

Process Value Output in Table Format

Resources
WinCC OnlineTableControl
Overview
Current incoming process data or archived values are shown in a table with the WinCC Online
Table Control. The process data is represented in online tags, archive values in archive tags.
You can arrange the display of the table as you wish.
You can create statistics from them in runtime or you can export the data for further processing.

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

Configuring the OnlineTableControl

How to configure the OnlineTableControl:
Introduction
The values in the table are shown in runtime in an ActiveX control. You can configure a WinCC
OnlineTableControl for this in the Graphics Designer.

Configuration steps
1. Link the WinCC OnlineTableControl to a Graphics Designer picture.
2. Configure the basic properties for the OnlineTableControl on the "General" tab.

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3. Configure one or more time columns with the time ranges for the table.
4. Configure one or more value columns. Assign time columns to the value columns. Every
value column configured must be connected with an online tag or archive tag. Define the
data connection for each value column.
5. Configure the display and properties of the table on the "Parameter", "Display" and "Marker"
tabs.
6. Configure the toolbar and status bar of the table window.
7. If you want to show the statistics values, configure a statistics window as well. Connect the
statistics window with the OnlineTableControl.
8. Save the configurations.

How to configure the time columns for the table

Introduction
You configure the time range in the table display with time columns. A table can have separate
time columns for several value columns or a common time column.

Time range of a table

Basically, there are two different time references in the table:
Static display. The time range of the table is determined by a pre-defined, fixed time interval,
independent of the current system time.

Dynamic display. The time range of the table is determined retrospectively from the most
current values. The display is continuously updated. The configured time range follows the
current system time.

You have three different ways to define the time range of a time column for each of the two
time references:

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The table values are displayed within a defined time interval. You define a start time and
an end time. In a dynamic display, the end time corresponds with the current system time.
The time difference between the start time and the end time is the time range for the table.
The table values are displayed from a start time throughout a defined time range, e.g. 30
minutes from the start time. In the dynamic display, the defined time range up to the current
system time is used, e.g. 30 minutes to the current system time.
Starting from a start time, a defined number of values are shown, e.g. 100 values from the
start time. With the dynamic display, the last values up to the current system time are shown.

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Requirement
You have opened the picture with the WinCC OnlineTableControl in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Define one or more time columns with the "New" button on the "Time columns" tab. The
sequence in the list determines the arrangement of the columns in the table.

2. If you do not want to show a time column in the table, deactivate the time column by clicking
on the checkbox in front of the name in the list. During runtime, you can show it again by
activating the time column in the table.
3. Configure the properties and the formats for time and date for every time column.

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4. Configure a time range for every time column. If you want a dynamic display, activate the
"Update started" option on the "General" tab.
5. Set the time range:
If you want to define a fixed time interval, select setting "Start to end time" Enter the
date and time for each.
If you want to define a time period, select the setting "Time range". Define the date and
time for the start time. The time range is the result of a multiplication of the "Factor" and
"Time unit", e.g. 30 times "1 minute" for a time range of 30 minutes. Enter the factor and
the time unit in the "Time range" field.
If you want to display a certain number of values, select the setting "Number of
measurement points". Define the date and time for the start time. Enter the desired
number of measurement points in the input field.
6. Save the configuration.
Note
Upon starting Runtime the values to be displayed are either read from the archive or are
set to zero. Define whether the update will start upon opening the picture on the "General"
tab.

How to configure the value columns for the table

Introduction
You can display several value columns in a table. Every value column is connected with a time
column. The value columns can have a common time column.

Requirements
You have opened the picture with the WinCC OnlineTableControl in the Graphics Designer.
You have defined time columns.

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Procedure
1. Define one or more value columns with the "New" button on the "Value columns" tab. The
sequence in the list determines the arrangement of the value columns in the table relative
to the assigned time axis.

2. Assign time columns that have been configured already to the value columns. If more than
one value column is to use a common time column, assign the same time column to these
value columns.
3. If you do not want to show a value column in the table, deactivate the value column by
clicking on the checkbox in front of the name in the list. You can use key function "Column
On/Off/Move" in runtime to display the value column in the table again.
4. Configure the properties and the display for each value column.

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5. Define the data source for each value column. Your options are:
Data source with archive tags of a process value archive
Data source with online tags from the tag management
6.

Click on

, to select a tag.

7. Save the configuration.

How to configure the display for the table

How to configure the properties of the table elements
Introduction
You can adjust the properties of the table elements in the WinCC controls to suit requirements.

Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Parameters" tab.

2. Specify the properties for of

Column header
Line labeling
Sorting
Table content
3. Save the configuration.

How to configure the colors of the table elements

Introduction
You can adjust the colors of the table elements in the WinCC controls to suit requirements.

Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Display" tab.

2. Define the colors for the background or text here for:

Table content. You can define different colors for even and odd line numbers to improve
differentiation between both.
Contents of the table header
Separating lines in the table and for table headers
3. Define the color and the line weight in the "General" area in terms of:
Control borders
Window dividers for control elements
4. Save the configuration.

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How to configure the marking of the selected cells and lines

Introduction
You can customize the marking of the selected cells and rows in the WinCC control to suit
requirements.

Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

Procedure
1. Go to the "Marker" tab.

2. Define whether to select rows or only cells using the mouse.

3. Configure the properties of the selection rectangle that can be displayed around selected
table cells or rows.
4. Configure the marking color for selectable cells and/or rows. The system colors are used
for marking with "Automatic coloring" property.
5. Save the configuration.

How to configure sorting via the column heading

Introduction
You can adjust the sorting order by means of table column header in the WinCC controls to
suit requirements.

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Prerequisite
You opened Graphics Designer and configured a picture with a WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

Procedure
1. Go to the "Parameters" tab.

2. Define whether to enable sorting and the sorting method by column header. In WinCC
AlarmControl, you can only sort by column header if the "Auto-Scrolling" is disabled. You
can deactivate "Auto-Scrolling" either in the "General" tab, or using the "Autoscroll" toolbar
icon of the WinCC AlarmControl.
3. Determine the sorting order by mouse click on the column header. Select ascending,
descending or no sorting order.
4. Configure the sorting icon and index to be displayed in the column header with right
justification. These show the sorting order and sequence of the columns.
5. Activate the "Use sorting button" to display the sorting icon as sorting button above the
vertical scroll bar. Click this sorting button to activate a configured sorting order for the
column selected. The sort button is not displayed if a vertical scroll bar is missing.
6. Save the configuration.

How to configure the toolbar and the status bar

Introduction
The WinCC controls are operated at runtime using the functions of the toolbar buttons. The
status bar contains information pertaining to the current status of the WinCC control. You can
adapt the toolbar and the status bar for all WinCC controls when configuring, or at runtime.

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Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The WinCC control is assigned the "Configuration dialog" button function for opening the
configuration dialog in Runtime.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

How to configure the toolbar

1. Go to the "Toolbar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. In the list, activate the button functions you require for operating the WinCC control in
Runtime. For information on the button functions, refer to the description of the
corresponding WinCC control at "Operation in runtime".
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3. Determine the sorting order for displaying the button functions in the toolbar. Select the
button functions from the list and the move the functions using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. Define a hotkey for the functions of the toolbar buttons.
5. Any button functions assigned operator authorizations are only available in Runtime to
authorized users.
6. An activated button function is displayed in runtime if you deactivate its "Active" option,
however, it cannot be operated.
7. You can set separators between the button functions. Activate the "Separator" option for
the button function to be restricted by separator.
8. Configure the general properties of the toolbar, e.g. alignment or background color.

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How to configure the status bar

1. Go to the "Status bar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. Activate the elements required in runtime in the list of status bar elements. For further
information on status bar elements, refer to the descriptions of the corresponding WinCC
control at "Operation in runtime".
3. Determine the sorting order for displaying of the status bar elements. Select the elements
from the list and move these using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. To resize the width of a status bar element, deactivate the "Automatic" option and enter a
pixel value for the width.
5. Configure the general properties of the status bar, e.g. alignment or background color.

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How to configure the Ruler window/Statistics window/Statistics area window

Introduction
Evaluated data and statistics are shown in a table in a ruler window, statistics window or a
statistics area window. The ruler window/statistics window/statistics area window are
configured in the WinCC RulerControl.

Overview of the WinCC RulerControl

The RulerControl can be connected with the following controls:
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
WinCC OnlineTableControl
WinCC FunctionTrendControl
Depending on the data evaluation, there are three different types of windows for displaying
values. The following window types are available:
The ruler window shows the coordinate values of the trends on a ruler or values of a selected
line in the table.
The statistics area window shows the values of the lower limit and upper limit of the trends
between two rulers or the selected area in the table. The statistics area window is not
planned for the WinCC FunctionTrendControl.
The statistics window shows the statistic evaluation of the trends between two rulers or the
selected values in the table. The statistics window is not planned for the WinCC
FunctionTrendControl.
All windows can also display additional information on the connected trends or columns.

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Requirements
You have opened a picture with an OnlineTrendControl, OnlineTableControl or
FunctionTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Insert RulerControl into the picture from the WinCC object palette.
2. Double click on the RulerControl to open the configuration dialog.

3. Configure the properties of the control on the "General", "Toolbar" and "Status bar" tabs.
4. Go to the "General" tab in the field "Source" and select the object name of the control that
is already configured. The type of control is displayed in the "Type" field.

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5. Set the window type in the "Window" field. If the key function "Configuration dialog" can be
operated in runtime, you can change the window type in runtime.
6. Go to the "Columns" tab.

7. Use the arrow keys to select the column of the window type that you want to display for the
assigned control. Columns for the basic data and columns that are only for the selected
window type or the assigned control are available. Define the column sequence with buttons
"Up" and "Down".

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8. Go to the "Blocks" tab.

Every column corresponds with a block. In order to define the properties for the selected
columns, click on the respective blocks.
9. If a special format exists for a block, you can configure the format of the block. Deactivate
the option "Apply from source" if the format settings of the connected control are not to
apply in this case. Define the desired format.
10.Define whether the data for the column and the column heading is to be displays as text or
as an icon in the table under "Display".
11.Save the configuration.

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12.Configure the properties and the display of the table for the RulerControl in the "Parameter,"
"Effects" and "Selection" tabs. You can find more on configuring the display of the table
under .
13.You can export the evaluated data. This requires activating the "Export data" key function
on the "Toolbar" tab. You can find more on exporting data under .
14.Configuring the TrendRulerControl is possible in runtime. You can find more on this under .

How to export runtime data

Introduction
The runtime data shown in the WinCC controls can be exported using a button function. Set
up operation of the data export in runtime in the configuration dialog.

Requirements
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

How to configure the operation of the data export

1. Go to the "Export" tab.

2. A standard file name and a standard directory are already entered in the "Data export default
settings." In this case for AlarmControl. If necessary, define a file name and a directory for
the export file.
3.

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file.

to define the separator in the CSV

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4. Define the scope of the data export:
All runtime data is exported
Selected runtime data is exported. This data export is only possible in WinCC controls
with tabular display.
5. Configure the operation of the data export in runtime. Define:
whether users are allowed to rename the file, or change the directory.
whether to display the "Data export default settings" dialog in Runtime.
6. If "Display dialog" is deactivated, the data for operation of the "Export data" button function
is immediately exported to the defined export file.
7. Save the configuration.
8. Go to the "Toolbar" tab to activate the "Export data" button function for runtime.

Results
You can export all or selected data to a defined file at runtime using button function

How to define the effect of the online configuration

Introduction
Users can parameterize the WinCC controls in Runtime. You must define the runtime effects
of the online configuration.
Changes configured at runtime are saved to a separate picture in the configuration system.
The original picture configuration is retained in the configuration system.

Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Online configuration" tab. For example, in OnlineTrendControl:

2. The option buttons of the "Online configuration" field for setting online configuration defaults
are only available in the configuration system. The option buttons are not available in
runtime.
Select one of the three effects of the online configuration:
"Do not retain". The online configurations are not retained in Runtime. This default
setting disables all options for runtime users. Online configurations are lost at the next
picture change and on activation/deactivation of the project.
"Retain during runtime". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change

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if the "retain" option is enabled, however, these are lost on activation/deactivation of the
project.
"Retain permanently". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change
and on activation/deactivation of the project if the "retain" option is enabled.
3. Define corresponding user authorizations for online configuration.
4. The option buttons of the "Online configuration on next picture change" can be enabled for
operation in the configuration system and at runtime by setting the "retain at runtime" and
"retain permanently" defaults. The "reset" operation is only available in runtime, because
the configuration system contains the original configuration.
Select one of three effects of the online configuration at the next picture change:
Select "discard" if to discard the online configuration at the next picture change.
Activate "retain" to activate the online configuration based on default settings at the next
picture change or on activation/deactivation of the project.
Activate "reset" to activate a picture which is older than the version stored in the
configuration system for runtime. All online changes are lost.
Note
The picture is also replaced at runtime if you save it in Graphics Designer, or when
loading deltas in online mode. All online changes are lost.
5. Save the configuration.
Note
The different configurations are only activated for new users after you performed a picture
change.

How to make the toolbar for the OnlineTableControl dynamic

Introduction
The default functions for operating the WinCC OnlineTableControl are no longer supported for
the new WinCC OnlineTableControl as of WinCC V7.0. You can use the WinCC types of
dynamics to e.g. operate a key function of the toolbar with a script.

Overview
With WinCC controls as of V7.0, special functions are no longer required for operating the
control with toolbar dynamics. The previously used standard functions
"TlgTableWindowPress..." are no longer supported.
If you do not want to operate the control via the toolbar, you can write the "ID" for the desired
button in the "ToolbarButtonClick" object property with an optional type of dynamics.
The "ID" of a button of the toolbar can be determined:

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with the table on page "Operation of the OnlineTableControl in Runtime".
in the configuration dialog of the OnlineTableControl on the "Toolbars" tab via field "Object
ID".

Example: Open the configuration dialog for the control

In order to open the configuration dialog of the control, dynamics are possible as follows:
VBScript:
ScreenItems("Control1").ToolbarButtonClick = 2
As an alternative to the property "ToolbarButtonClick", there are also methods in VBS
for operating the toolbar: ScreenItems("Control1").ShowPropertyDialog
Or, with the following notation with the support of "Intellisense":
Dim obj
Set obj = ScreenItems("Control1")
obj.ShowPropertyDialog
C script:
SetPropWord(lpszPictureName, "Control1", "ToolbarButtonClick", 2);
Direct connection
In the dialog for the direct connection for the source, enter "2" as a constant
Select the property "ToolButtonClick" for the object "Control1" for the target "Object in
picture"

See also
Operating the OnlineTableControl in runtime (Page1208)

Operation in Runtime
Operating the OnlineTableControl in runtime
Introduction
In Runtime, the table window is operated by means of the toolbar buttons. If you do not want
to operate the table window via the toolbar, you can write the "ID" for the desired button in the
"ToolbarButtonClick" object property with an optional type of dynamics.

Overview
Icon

Description

ID

"Help"

Calls up the help on WinCC Online TableControl.

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"Configuration dialog"

Opens the configuration dialog, in which you can change the properties of
the Online TableControl.
"First Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend over time in the table window, starting with
the first archived value and extending over a defined time range. The button
is only available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Previous Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend of the previous time interval in the table
window, starting from the currently displayed time interval. The button is only
available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Next Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend of the following time interval in the table
window, starting from the currently displayed time interval. The button is only
available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Last Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend over time in the table window, ending with
the last archived value and extending over a defined time range. The button
is only available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Edit"

Upon activating this button, you can double-click any table cell to edit its
contents This requires stopping the updated display.
"Copy lines"

Copies the content of the selected lines to the clipboard. This requires
stopping the updated display.
"Select data connection"

This button opens a dialog for the archive selection and tag selection.
"Select columns"

10

This button opens the dialog for toggling the visible and invisible column
view. You can also change the sequence of the columns in the table.
"Select Time Range"

11

This button opens the dialog where you can specify the time range to be
displayed in a table window.
"Previous column"

12

This button is used to move the value column in front of the previous value
column. The function refers to the value columns that are assigned with a
time axis.
"Next column"

13

This button is used to move the value column in behind of the next value
column. The function refers to the value columns that are assigned with a
time axis.
"Stop"

14

The updated display is stopped. The data is saved to the clipboard and
added to the table when the button is clicked again.
"Start"

14

Resume updated display.

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"Print"

15

Start the print-out of the values shown in the table. The print job used for
printing is defined in the configuration dialog on the "General" tab.
"Export data"

20

This button is used for exporting all or the selected runtime data into a "CSV"
file. If the option "Display dialog" is active, a dialog opens in which you can
view the settings for exporting and can start the export. With the respective
authorization, you are also allowed to select the file and the directory for the
export.
If a dialog is displayed, the export of the data to the predefined file starts
immediately.
"Define statistics area"

16

This button is used to define the time range for calculating the statistics in
the table window.
"Calculate Statistics"

17

The button shows the statistical values in the statistics window. The
displayed values refer to a selected column with the configured calculation
time range. The button is only functional if a statistics window is connected
with the OnlineTableControl.
"Connect backup"

18

This button opens a dialog in which you connect the selected archive with
WinCC Runtime.
"Disconnect backup"

19

This button opens a dialog in which you disconnect the selected archive from
WinCC Runtime.
"User-defined 1"

1001

Shows the first key function created by the user. The function of the button
is user-defined.

Possible elements of the status bar

The following elements can appear in the status bar of the table window:

Icon

Name

Description

Connection status

Shows the status of the data connections:

No faulty connections
Faulty connections exist
All connections are faulty

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Selected Row

Shows the number of the selected line.

Selected column

Shows the number of the selected column.

Date

Shows the system date.

Time

Shows the system time.

Time Base

Shows the time base used in the display of times.

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Double click on the icon for the connection status to open the window "Status of the data
connections", in which the name, status and tag name of the data connection are listed.

Online configuration of the OnlineTableControl

Introduction
In runtime, you can configure online and change the display of the WinCC OnlineTableControl.
Configuring the WinCC OnlineTableControl defines how to proceed with a picture change or
after ending runtime with online configurations.

Overview
The following buttons functions make online configuration possible in OnlineTableControl:
With key function "Configuration dialog"
With key function "Select data connection"
With key function "Select columns"
With key function "Select time range"

Key function "Configuration dialog"

you have access to the configuration dialog
With the key function "Configuration dialog"
tab for changing the display of the table for instance.

The key function "Select data connection"

With key function "Select data connection"
you select the archive tags or online tags for
the value columns, which you want to show in the table:

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Field

Description

Value column

Choose the configured value column for which you want to change the data
connection.

Data Source

Define whether the selected value column is supplied with an archive tag or online
tag.

Tag name

Select the tag name for the data connection.

The key function "Select column"

Key function "Select column"
opens a dialog for showing or hiding columns. You can
change the sequence of the value columns that are assigned with a time column. The value
columns can only be moved in reference to the anchored time column.
Note
The first column of a table window cannot be hidden.

The key function "Select time range"

Select the time range to be displayed for the time columns with key function "Select time range"
. If the columns of a table window are to be displayed with a common time axis, the
specified time range applies to all columns.

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Field

Description

Time column

Select the configured time column for which you want to define a time range.

time range

Set the time range:

If you want to define a fixed time interval, select setting "Start to end time". Enter
the date and time for each.
If you want to define a time period, select the setting "Time range". Define the date
and time for the start time. The length of the time interval to be displayed is
determined by multiplying the "Factor" by the "Time unit".
If you want to display a certain number of values, select the setting "Number of
measurement points". Define the date and time for the start time. Enter the desired
number of measurement points in the input field.

The entry format of the date and time depends on the runtime language used.

Starting and Stopping Update

Introduction
The update of the column in the table window can be started and stopped with the "Start/Stop"
key function.
Certain key functions, e.g. "Define statistics area", stop the update automatically.
The appearance of the button indicates whether the update is stopped or not:

: Update is stopped. Click on the button to continue updating.

: Update is started. Click on the button to stop updating.

How to edit a table field in runtime

Introduction
Key function "Edit" can be used to change the displayed values in WinCC OnlineTableControl.

Requirements
You have configured an OnlineTableControl.
You have configured the "Edit" key function.
You have activated runtime.

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Procedure
1.

2.

In OnlineTableControl, click on
continues being archived.
Click

. The updated display is stopped, the process data

3. Double click on the desired table field of a value column. Now, change the value of the
table field. The changed values are archived.
4.

In order to continue with the display of runtime data in OnlineTableControl, click on

How to move the columns in the table

Introduction
The time column is always shown in the first column in the table. The value columns that are
assigned with this time column are displayed next. If there are more than one time columns
configured, the second time column follows with the assigned value columns.

How to change the sequence of the columns in runtime

You can change the sequence of the value columns that are assigned with a time column in
runtime. The value columns can only be moved in reference to the anchored time column. The
sequence of the time columns with the assigned value columns must be defined on the "Time
axes" tab.

Requirements
You have configured key functions "Select columns", "Previous column" and "Next column".

Procedure

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changes the sequence of the columns in the dialog. Deactivate the checkbox in front
of the column name if you do not want to display the column.
is used to move the value column behind the next value column. The function refers
to the value columns that are assigned with a time axis.
is used to move the value column in front of the previous value column. The function
refers to the value columns that are assigned with a time axis.

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How to display archived values

Introduction
Use the buttons in the toolbar of a table window or the corresponding key combinations to
browse through an archive.
The values archived for a tag will be displayed within a time interval. You define the time interval:
In the configuration dialog of the Online TableControl on the "Time columns" tab.

During runtime using the

button.

Buttons for Archived Values

The table displays the tag values within a specified time range, beginning with
the first archived value.
The table displays the tag values within the previous time interval, based on the
currently displayed time interval.
The table displays the tag values within the next time interval, based on the
currently displayed time interval.
The table displays the tag values within the specified time interval, ending with
the last archived value.
Note
The WinCC Online Table Control displays a maximum of 1000 values within a selected time
range.

How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data

Introduction
You can generate an evaluation of runtime process data in the table window. The evaluated
data is shown in a separate WinCC RulerControl.

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Overview
Depending on the data evaluation, there are three different types of windows for displaying
values. The following window types are available:
The ruler window shows the values of a selected line in the table.
The statistics area window shows the values of the lower limit and upper limit of the selected
area in the table.
The statistics window shows the statistical evaluation of the selected values in the table.
Among other things, the statistics include:
Minimum
Maximum
Average
Standard deviation
Integral
All windows can also show additional information on the values of the connected columns.

Requirements
You have configured a WinCCOnlineTableControl.
You have configured a WinCC RulerControl and connected it with the OnlineTableControl.
You have selected the window in the RulerControl which shows the desired data.
You have configured key functions "Set statistics range", "Calculate statistics" and "Start/
Stop". If a display of the values in a ruler window is sufficient, you do not need key functions
"Select statistics area" and "Calculate statistics".
You require key function "Select time range", if you wish to choose a statistics area outside
of the time range displayed in the table.
You require key function "Configuration dialog" of the RulerControl if you want to switch
between the statistics window and the ruler window.
You have activated runtime.

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How to show the data in a ruler window

1.

In OnlineTableControl, click on
continues being archived.

. The updated display is stopped, the process data

2. Select an line. Data in the columns that you have configured is shown in the ruler window.

3.

In order to continue with the display of runtime data in OnlineTableControl, click on

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How to display the data in a statistics area window

1.

In OnlineTableControl, click on
continues being archived.

. The updated display is stopped, the process data

2. In order to specify the time period for the calculation, use the mouse to select the table lines
for the desired time frame. For different columns with different time frames you can select
different time ranges for the calculation of statistics.

3.

Click
in the toolbar. The evaluated data is displayed in the columns that you have
configured in the statistics area window.

4. If you want an evaluation of data that is not displayed in OnlineTableControl, click on

. Enter the desired time range for the selected time column in the "Time selection"
dialog. The data for the defined time range is displayed. You can now evaluate this data.
5.

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In order to continue with the display in OnlineTableControl, click on

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How to display the data in a statistics window

1.

2.

3.

In OnlineTableControl, click on
continues being archived.

. The updated display is stopped, the process data

Click
. In order to specify the time period for the calculation, use the mouse to select
the table lines for the desired time frame. For different columns with different time frames
you can select different time ranges for the calculation of statistics.

Click
. The evaluated data is displayed in the columns that you have configured in the
statistics window.

4. If you want an evaluation of process data that is not displayed in OnlineTableControl, click
. Enter the desired time range for the selected time column in the "Time selection"
on
dialog. The process data for the defined time range is displayed. You can now evaluate
this data.
5.

In order to continue with the display in OnlineTableControl, click on

Note
For additional statistical analysis of process data and archiving of results you can write
the scripts yourself.

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6.5.2.3

Process Value Output in the Form of Trends in Process Pictures

Resources
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
Introduction
In order to process data in graphic form, WinCC uses Online TrendControl to offer the option
of displaying the data as a trend. The trend display can be configured as you wish. The trends
can display currently incoming values and archived values.

Requirements
The following requirements apply to the display of trends in WinCC Online Trend Control:
In a WinCC Online Trend Control any number of trends can be displayed in one or more
trend windows. Displaying a maximum of 8 trends is recommended.
In order to display tags as a function of other tags, use the WinCC Function Trend Control.

Resolution of Trend Display

The number of trend values that can be displayed on the screen is limited by the screen
resolution and selected size of the trend window. Therefore, when displaying trends, it is
possible that fewer values are displayed in the trend window than actually exist.
If, for example, in an area of 100 pixels 200 measured values are archived, each pixel
represents 2 measured values. The value shown on the screen is that of the most recent data
(most recent time stamp).

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See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

Representation Trend Lines

Representation Trend Lines
Introduction
The WinCC OnlineTrendControl has many ways of displaying the progress of a trend.

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Representation formats
To display values graphically, three basic representation types are available:
No trend
The values are shown as dots. The display of the points can be configured as you wish.

Connect dots linearly

The trend line is interpolated on a linear basis from the point values. The display of the lines
and points can be configured as you wish.

Stepped trend
The progress of the trend line is determined from the values as a stepped trend. The display
of the lines and points can be configured as you wish.

The display of the trend can be configured on the "Trends" tab of the OnlineTrendControl.

Write direction
With the write direction option, you can specify where the current values for all trend windows
are to be entered. Normally, the current values are written in the trend window from the right.
All four write directions can be configured. The write direction is configured on the "General"
tab of the OnlineTrendControl.

Representation Using Common Axes

Introduction
When displaying more than one trend in a trend window, you can assign every trend with its
own axes or use a common time axis and/or value axis for all trends.

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Representation Using Different Axes

If the values to be displayed in a trend window differ greatly, a common value axis makes no
sense. The values can be read more easily if different axial scales are used. Individual axes
can be hidden if required.

Representation Using Common Axes

If the comparability of the trend lines is important, common axes in a trend window is sensible.
Connected trend windows can have a common time axis.

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Configuring
The axes are configured on the "Value axis" and "Time axis" tabs of OnlineTrendControl. The
assignment of the axes for the trends can be configured on the "Trends" tab. In this case, you
can assign the individual trends to the same axes.
Note
In OnlineTrendControl, only tags with the same update cycles should be displayed for more
than one trend with a common time axis. In the case of different updating cycles, the length
of the time axis is not identical for all tags. Since the trends are updated at different times
due to the different updating cycles, a minimal different in the end time for the time axis occurs
on each change. As a result, the trends displayed skip slightly to and fro on each change.

Configuring the OnlineTrendControl

How to configure the OnlineTrendControl
Introduction
In runtime, the trends are displayed in an ActiveX control. You can configure a WinCC
OnlineTrendControl for this in the Graphics Designer.

Configuration steps
1. Insert the OnlineTrendControl into a picture of the Graphics Designer.
2. Configure the basic properties for the OnlineTrendControl on the "General" tab:
the window properties of the control
the display of the control
the write direction of the trend values
the time base of the control
3. Define one or more trend windows.
4. Configure one or more time axes and value axes with their respective properties. Assign
the axes to the trend windows.
5. Define trends that you want to display in the trend windows. Assign the trends to the trend
windows. The value axis of a trend can only be the value axis of the assigned trend window.
Assign the trends with one or more time axes.
6. Every configured trend must be connected with an online tag or an archive tag. Define the
data connection for each trend.
7. Configure the display for each trend.
8. Configure the toolbar and status bar of the trend window.

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9. If you want to display coordinates or statistic values, configure a ruler window, statistics
window or statistics area window as well. Connect the ruler window/statistics window/
statistics area window with the OnlineTrendControl.
10.Save the configurations.

How to create trend windows in OnlineTrendControl

Introduction
The WinCC OnlineTrendControl can contain one or more trend windows. The trend window
provides an area to display trends in.

Overview of the trend window

The trend window has the following properties:
Every trend window is assigned with at least one trend, which has one time axis and one
value axis.
The value axis of the trend determines the trend window, in which the trend will be displayed.
A trend can only be assigned to one trend window.
Several trends can be displayed in a trend window.
A trend window can display value axes, independent of the displayed trends. Value axes
and time axes can be hidden in runtime.
The sequence of the configured trend window is determined by the position in
OnlineTrendControl. The first trend window in the list of trend windows is displayed in the
lower position, the last trend window is shown in the top position.
If more than one trend window is configured, the trend windows can be connected. The
connected trend windows have the following properties:
They can have a common time axis.
They have a scroll bar.
They have a ruler.
The zoom functions for a trend window affect the connected trend windows.

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Procedure
1. Define one or more trend windows with the "New" button on the "trend windows" tab.

2. If you have defined more than one trend window, more configurations are possible:
Assign every trend window with an area selection in the displayed OnlineTrendControl.
Define the position of the trend windows with the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
Define whether the trend window will be connected on the "General" tab.
3. If you want to hide a trend window in runtime, deactivate the checkbox in front of the name
of the trend window in the list. The respective axes are then hidden as well.
4. Configure the gridlines for every trend window.

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5. Configure the display of the ruler. If you want to use a statistics area window, configure the
ruler that will be used with the statistics area as well.
6. If you use "Graphic" for the display of the ruler, you can configure the color and the line
weight of the ruler.
7. Define the level on which to display the ruler in the trend window.
8. Save the configuration.

How to configure the time axes of trend windows

Introduction
The time range for trend display is configured with time axes. Several time axes can be
assigned with one or more trend windows. Connected trend windows may have a common
time axis.

Time range of the trend display

Basically, there are two different time references in the trend display:
Static display. The time range of the trend display is determined by a pre-defined, fixed
time interval, independent of the current system time.

Dynamic display. The time range of the trend display is determined retrospectively from the
most current values. The display is continuously updated. The configured time range follows
the current system time.

You have three different ways to define the time range of a time range for each of the two time
references:

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The trend is displayed within a defined time interval. You define a start time and an end
time. In a dynamic display, the end time corresponds with the current system time. The
time between the start time and the end time is the time range for the trend display.
The trend is displayed from a start time throughout a defined time range, e.g. 30 minutes
from the start time. In the dynamic display, the defined time range up to the current system
time is used, e.g. 30 minutes to the current system time.
Starting from a start time, a defined number of values are shown, e.g. 100 values from the
start time. With the dynamic display, the last values up to the current system time are shown.

Requirements
You have opened a picture with the OnlineTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.
You have defined one or more trend windows.

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Procedure
1. Define one or more time axes with the "New" button on the "Time axes" tab.

2. Define the positioning of the configured time axes for a trend window. The sequence in the
list of time axes determines the positioning in the trend window. If several time axes are
arranged on the same page of a trend window, the first time axis in the list assumes the
position in the bottom left and the last time axis in the list then assumes the position at the
top right.
3. Assign the time axes to the configured trend windows.
4. If you want to hide a time axis in the trend window, click on the checkbox in front of the
name of the time axis in the list. You can display the axes again in runtime with the key
functions.

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5. Configure the properties and the formats for time and date for every time axis.
6. If the trends in the trend window assigned to the time axis are always updated, activate the
"Update" option. If you e.g. want to compare a current trend display with an earlier trend
display, deactivate the "Update" option for the time axis of the comparison trend.
7. Configure the time range for every time axis:
If you want to define a fixed time interval, select setting "Start to end time". Enter the
date and time for each.
If you want to define a time period, select the setting "Time range". Define the date and
time for the start time. The time range is the result of a multiplication of the "Factor" and
"Time unit", e.g. 30 times "1 minute" for a time range of 30 minutes. Enter the factor and
the time unit in the "Time range" field.
If you want to display a certain number of values, select the setting "Number of
measurement points". Define the date and time for the start time. Enter the desired
number of measurement points in the input field.
8. Save the configuration.
Note
Upon opening the picture of a trend window in runtime, the trend values to be displayed
are either read from the archive or are set to zero. Define what is to be done via the "Load
archive data" option on the "General" tab.

How to configure the value axes of trend windows

Introduction
You can configure several value axes that you will assign to one or more trend windows.
Configure the value range and the scaling for every value axis.
If you have defined a value axis, the value range and the scaling are pre-configured as follows:
The value range is based on the current values of the assigned trend.
The value axis scale is linear to the value range.

Requirements
You have opened the picture with the OnlineTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.
You have defined trend windows.

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Procedure
1. Define one or more value axes with the "New" button on the "value axes" tab.

2. Assign the value axes to the configured trend windows.

3. If you want to hide a value axis in the trend window, click on the checkbox in front of the
name of the value axis in the list. You can display the value axes again in runtime with the
key functions.
4. Configure the orientation and the scaling for every value axis.
5. Configure the display of the value axis in trend windows.
6. Deactivate the "Automatic" option in "Value range" if you want to define a fixed value range
for the value axis.

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7. Enter the minimum value and maximum value of the value range in the input fields "From:"
and "To:".
8. If you want to define the scaling of the value axis yourself, activate the "Use" option in field
"User scaling". Click on

to open the "User scaling" dialog.

9. Click "Add" to define an area. You must define segments without gaps for the entire
configured value range and assign areas on the value axis. If you have defined a value
range of "0 - 100000" you can divide this value range e.g. into three sections that you can
display as follows on the value axis:

E.g. value range "0 - 50000" is displayed in runtime on the value axis in the "100 - 500"
range.
10.In a ruler window, the key function "Ruler" displays e.g. measurement values. You can have
a name shown as well in the "Y value" of the ruler window next to the measurement value
and the status display "i" and "u". Area names can be assigned for certain value ranges.
11.If you want to display area names, activate the "Display" option in the "Area names" field.
Click on

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12.Click "Add" to define ranges with the respective names.

13.Save the configuration for the value axis.

How to create trends for the trend window

Introduction
Every trend is assigned with a time axis and a value axis. The value axis assigned to the trend
determines the trend window, in which the trend will be displayed.

Requirements
You have inserted the OnlineTrendControl into a picture of the Graphics Designer.
You have configured time axes, value axes and trend windows.
The following prerequisites apply for the data source:
If you want to connect data of online tags, you have to have defined process values in
the tag management.
If you want to connect the data from archive tags, you have to have configured a process
value archive with archive tags.
If you want to supply the trend values with data in runtime with scripts, you require a
script via the API interface.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Trends" tab.

2. Use the "New" button to define the desired number of trends.

3. Define the sequence of trends in the trend window using "Up" and "Down" keys.
4. Assign each trend of trend window with a time axis and a value axis.
5. Define the data source for each trend. You can select the following:
Archive tags of a process value archive
Online tags from the tag management
No configured data source to establish a connection in runtime via a script.

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6.
7.

Click on

to select a tag for the trend.

Configure the value range for the data in which the trend will be displayed. Click the
button in the "Data connection" field. The dialog "Automatic value range" will be opened.

Choose how the value range is defined from the following possibilities:
Automatically from the displayed data.
From the defined value range. Enter the values for the lower limit and the upper limit of
the value range.
From online tags. The lower limit and the upper limit of the value range are made from
the values from connected online tags. Enter a tag name for the lower limit and the upper
limit.
8. Configure the display for each trend. More information can be found on page "How to
configure the display of trends".
9. Save the configuration.

How to configure the display of trends

Introduction
You can adjust the display of trends to suit your requirements in the WinCC controls. The
following WinCC controls are shown in trends:
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
WinCC FunctionTrendControl

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Overview
The following trends features can be configured:
The types of trends and trend lines
The properties of trend lines
The colors of the trends, the trend points and the fill color
Color identification for a limit value violation

Requirements
You have opened the Graphics Designer and configured a picture with the above mentioned
WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is opened.

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Configuring the types of trends and trend lines

1. Go to the "Trends" tab. Here e.g. in WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

2. Choose a trend under "Trends".

3. Define the type of the trends and trend lines in the "Display" area.
4. If you want to highlight the display of the area under the trend, activate the "Filled" option.
5. In the small picture in the right-hand margin of the "Display" area, the result of the
configuration is shown.
6. Save the configuration.

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Configuring the properties of trend lines

1. Choose a trend under "Trends".
2. Define the properties of the trend lines in the "Display" area.
3. Define the line weight and the properties of the trend points.
4. In the small picture in the right-hand margin of the "Display" area, the result of the
configuration is shown.
5. Save the configuration.

Configuring the colors of the trends, the trend points and the fill color
1. Choose a trend under "Trends".
2. Define the colors in the "Display" area.
3. If you want to configure the colors of the trend points and the fill color, activate the
"Extended" option.
4. In the small picture in the right-hand margin of the "Display" area, the result of the
configuration is shown.
5. Save the configuration.

Configuring the color identification for a limit value violation

1. Choose a trend under "Trends".
2. Click in the "Display" area on the "Limit values" button. This will open the "Limit values"
dialog.

3. Activate the limit values, for which you want a colored identification.
4. Define the color for every activated option.

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5. The colored identification has the following effect:
Low limit value. Whenever a displayed trend value is below the value defined in the
"Value" input field, the value is shown in the configured color.
High Limit Value. Whenever a displayed trend value is above the value defined in the
"Value" input field, the value is shown in the configured color.
Value with uncertain status. Values, whose start value is unknown on activating runtime
or for which a substitute value is used, have an uncertain status. These values are
displayed in the configured colors.
6. Save the configuration.

How to configure the toolbar and the status bar

Introduction
The WinCC controls are operated at runtime using the functions of the toolbar buttons. The
status bar contains information pertaining to the current status of the WinCC control. You can
adapt the toolbar and the status bar for all WinCC controls when configuring, or at runtime.

Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The WinCC control is assigned the "Configuration dialog" button function for opening the
configuration dialog in Runtime.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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How to configure the toolbar

1. Go to the "Toolbar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. In the list, activate the button functions you require for operating the WinCC control in
Runtime. For information on the button functions, refer to the description of the
corresponding WinCC control at "Operation in runtime".
3. Determine the sorting order for displaying the button functions in the toolbar. Select the
button functions from the list and the move the functions using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. Define a hotkey for the functions of the toolbar buttons.
5. Any button functions assigned operator authorizations are only available in Runtime to
authorized users.

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6. An activated button function is displayed in runtime if you deactivate its "Active" option,
however, it cannot be operated.
7. You can set separators between the button functions. Activate the "Separator" option for
the button function to be restricted by separator.
8. Configure the general properties of the toolbar, e.g. alignment or background color.

How to configure the status bar

1. Go to the "Status bar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. Activate the elements required in runtime in the list of status bar elements. For further
information on status bar elements, refer to the descriptions of the corresponding WinCC
control at "Operation in runtime".

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3. Determine the sorting order for displaying of the status bar elements. Select the elements
from the list and move these using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. To resize the width of a status bar element, deactivate the "Automatic" option and enter a
pixel value for the width.
5. Configure the general properties of the status bar, e.g. alignment or background color.

How to configure the Ruler window/Statistics window/Statistics area window

Introduction
Evaluated data and statistics are shown in a table in a ruler window, statistics window or a
statistics area window. The ruler window/statistics window/statistics area window are
configured in the WinCC RulerControl.

Overview of the WinCC RulerControl

The RulerControl can be connected with the following controls:
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
WinCC OnlineTableControl
WinCC FunctionTrendControl
Depending on the data evaluation, there are three different types of windows for displaying
values. The following window types are available:
The ruler window shows the coordinate values of the trends on a ruler or values of a selected
line in the table.
The statistics area window shows the values of the lower limit and upper limit of the trends
between two rulers or the selected area in the table. The statistics area window is not
planned for the WinCC FunctionTrendControl.
The statistics window shows the statistic evaluation of the trends between two rulers or the
selected values in the table. The statistics window is not planned for the WinCC
FunctionTrendControl.
All windows can also display additional information on the connected trends or columns.

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Requirements
You have opened a picture with an OnlineTrendControl, OnlineTableControl or
FunctionTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Insert RulerControl into the picture from the WinCC object palette.
2. Double click on the RulerControl to open the configuration dialog.

3. Configure the properties of the control on the "General", "Toolbar" and "Status bar" tabs.
4. Go to the "General" tab in the field "Source" and select the object name of the control that
is already configured. The type of control is displayed in the "Type" field.

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5. Set the window type in the "Window" field. If the key function "Configuration dialog" can be
operated in runtime, you can change the window type in runtime.
6. Go to the "Columns" tab.

7. Use the arrow keys to select the column of the window type that you want to display for the
assigned control. Columns for the basic data and columns that are only for the selected
window type or the assigned control are available. Define the column sequence with buttons
"Up" and "Down".

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8. Go to the "Blocks" tab.

Every column corresponds with a block. In order to define the properties for the selected
columns, click on the respective blocks.
9. If a special format exists for a block, you can configure the format of the block. Deactivate
the option "Apply from source" if the format settings of the connected control are not to
apply in this case. Define the desired format.
10.Define whether the data for the column and the column heading is to be displays as text or
as an icon in the table under "Display".
11.Save the configuration.

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12.Configure the properties and the display of the table for the RulerControl in the "Parameter,"
"Effects" and "Selection" tabs. You can find more on configuring the display of the table
under .
13.You can export the evaluated data. This requires activating the "Export data" key function
on the "Toolbar" tab. You can find more on exporting data under .
14.Configuring the TrendRulerControl is possible in runtime. You can find more on this under
How to define the effect of the online configuration (Page1247).

See also
How to define the effect of the online configuration (Page1247)

How to export runtime data

Introduction
The runtime data shown in the WinCC controls can be exported using a button function. Set
up operation of the data export in runtime in the configuration dialog.

Requirements
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

How to configure the operation of the data export

1. Go to the "Export" tab.

2. A standard file name and a standard directory are already entered in the "Data export default
settings." In this case for AlarmControl. If necessary, define a file name and a directory for
the export file.

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3.

CSV is currently available as data format. Click on

file.

to define the separator in the CSV

4. Define the scope of the data export:

All runtime data is exported
Selected runtime data is exported. This data export is only possible in WinCC controls
with tabular display.
5. Configure the operation of the data export in runtime. Define:
whether users are allowed to rename the file, or change the directory.
whether to display the "Data export default settings" dialog in Runtime.
6. If "Display dialog" is deactivated, the data for operation of the "Export data" button function
is immediately exported to the defined export file.
7. Save the configuration.
8. Go to the "Toolbar" tab to activate the "Export data" button function for runtime.

Results
You can export all or selected data to a defined file at runtime using button function

How to define the effect of the online configuration

Introduction
Users can parameterize the WinCC controls in Runtime. You must define the runtime effects
of the online configuration.
Changes configured at runtime are saved to a separate picture in the configuration system.
The original picture configuration is retained in the configuration system.

Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Online configuration" tab. For example, in OnlineTrendControl:

2. The option buttons of the "Online configuration" field for setting online configuration defaults
are only available in the configuration system. The option buttons are not available in
runtime.
Select one of the three effects of the online configuration:
"Do not retain". The online configurations are not retained in Runtime. This default
setting disables all options for runtime users. Online configurations are lost at the next
picture change and on activation/deactivation of the project.
"Retain during runtime". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change

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if the "retain" option is enabled, however, these are lost on activation/deactivation of the
project.
"Retain permanently". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change
and on activation/deactivation of the project if the "retain" option is enabled.
3. Define corresponding user authorizations for online configuration.
4. The option buttons of the "Online configuration on next picture change" can be enabled for
operation in the configuration system and at runtime by setting the "retain at runtime" and
"retain permanently" defaults. The "reset" operation is only available in runtime, because
the configuration system contains the original configuration.
Select one of three effects of the online configuration at the next picture change:
Select "discard" if to discard the online configuration at the next picture change.
Activate "retain" to activate the online configuration based on default settings at the next
picture change or on activation/deactivation of the project.
Activate "reset" to activate a picture which is older than the version stored in the
configuration system for runtime. All online changes are lost.
Note
The picture is also replaced at runtime if you save it in Graphics Designer, or when
loading deltas in online mode. All online changes are lost.
5. Save the configuration.
Note
The different configurations are only activated for new users after you performed a picture
change.

How to make the toolbar for the OnlineTrendControl dynamic

Introduction
The default functions for operating the WinCC OnlineTrendControl are no longer supported
for the new WinCC OnlineTrendControl as of WinCC V7.0. You can use the WinCC types of
dynamics to e.g. operate a key function of the toolbar with a script.

Overview
With WinCC controls as of V7.0, special functions are no longer required for operating the
control with toolbar dynamics. The previously used standard functions
"TlgTrendWindowPress..." and "TrendToolbarButton" are no longer supported.
If you do not want to operate the control via the toolbar, you can write the "ID" for the desired
button in the "ToolbarButtonClick" object property with an optional type of dynamics.
The "ID" of a button of the toolbar can be determined:

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with the table on page "Operation of the OnlineTrendControl in Runtime".
in the configuration dialog of the OnlineTrendControl on the "Toolbar" tab via field "Object
ID".

Example: Open the configuration dialog for the control

In order to open the configuration dialog of the control, dynamics are possible as follows:
VBScript:
ScreenItems("Control1").ToolbarButtonClick = 2
As an alternative to the property "ToolbarButtonClick", there are also methods in VBS
for operating the toolbar: ScreenItems("Control1").ShowPropertyDialog
Or, with the following notation with the support of "Intellisense":
Dim obj
Set obj = ScreenItems("Control1")
obj.ShowPropertyDialog
C script:
SetPropWord(lpszPictureName, "Control1", "ToolbarButtonClick", 2);
Direct connection
In the dialog for the direct connection for the source, enter "2" as a constant
Select the property "ToolButtonClick" for the object "Control1" for the target "Object in
picture"

See also
Operating the OnlineTrendControl in runtime (Page1250)

Operation in Runtime
Operating the OnlineTrendControl in runtime
Introduction
The trend window is operated in runtime via the buttons in the toolbar. If you do not want to
operate the trend window via the toolbar, you can write the "ID" for the desired button in the
"ToolbarButtonClick" object property with an optional type of dynamics.

Overview
Icon

Description

ID

"Help"

Calls up the help on WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

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"Configuration dialog"

Opens the configuration dialog, in which you can change the properties of
the OnlineTrendControl.
"First Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend over time in the trend window, starting with
the first archived value and extending over a defined time range. The button
is only available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Previous Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend of the previous time interval in the trend
window, starting from the currently displayed time interval. The button is only
available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Next Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend of the following time interval in the trend
window, starting from the currently displayed time interval. The button is only
available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Last Data Record"

This button displays the tag trend over time in the trend window, ending with
the last archived value and extending over a defined time range. The button
is only available if the values originate from a process value archive.
"Zoom area"

Define an area by dragging with the mouse in the trend window. This cut-out
of the trend window is made larger. The "Original view" button brings back
the original size of the view.
"Zoom +/-"

Zooms in on or out off the trends in the trend window. The left mouse button
increases the size of the trends. By holding the "Shift" button down, the left
mouse button zooms out of the trends. The "Original view" button brings
back the original size of the view.
"Zoom time axis +/-"

10

Zooms in on or out off the time axes in the trend window. The left mouse
button increases the size of the time axes. By holding the "Shift" button down,
the left mouse button zooms out of the time axes. The "Original view" button
brings back the original size of the view.
"Zoom value axis +/-"

11

Zooms in on or out off the value axes in the trend window. The left mouse
button increases the size of the value axes. By holding the "Shift" button
down, the left mouse button zooms out of the value axes. The "Original view"
button brings back the original size of the view.
"Move trend area"

12

This button moves the trends along the time axis and the value axis in the
trend window.
"Move axes area"

13

This button moves the trends along the value axis in the trend window.
"Original view"

14

This button returns from the zoomed trend display back to the original view.
"Select data connection"

15

This button opens a dialog for the archive selection and tag selection.

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"Select trends"

16

This button opens the dialog for toggling the visible and invisible trends. You
can also define which trend is displayed in the foreground.
"Select Time Range"

17

This button opens the dialog where you can specify the time range to be
displayed in a trend window.
"Previous trend"

18

This button is used for displaying the previous trend of the trend window in
the foreground.
"Next trend"

19

This button is used for displaying the next trend of the trend window in the
foreground.
"Stop"

20

The updated display is stopped. The data is saved to the clipboard and
added when the button in the trend window is clicked again.
"Start"

20

Resume updated display.

"Print"

21

Click this button to print the trend shown in the trend window. The print job
used for printing is defined in the configuration dialog on the "General" tab.
"Export data"

26

This button is used for exporting all or the selected runtime data into a "CSV"
file. If the option "Display dialog" is active, a dialog opens in which you can
view the settings for exporting and can start the export. With the respective
authorization, you are also allowed to select the file and the directory for the
export.
If a dialog is displayed, the export of the data to the predefined file starts
immediately.
"Ruler"

The coordinate points of a trend are queried with this button. The trend data
is displayed in the ruler window.
"Define statistics area"

22

This button is used to define the time range for calculating the statistics in
the trend window.
"Calculate Statistics"

23

The button shows the statistical values in the statistics window. The
displayed values refer to a selected trend with the configured calculation
time range. The button is only functional if a statistics window is connected
with the OnlineTrendControl.
"Connect backup"

24

This button opens a dialog in which you connect the selected archive with
WinCC Runtime.
"Disconnect backup"

25

This button opens a dialog in which you disconnect the selected archive from
WinCC Runtime.

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"Relative axis"

27

Switches from displaying the absolute values to the percentage display of

value axis. The high and low limits for the trend correspond with a range of
0 to 100%.
"User-defined 1"

1001

Shows the first key function created by the user. The function of the button
is user-defined.

Possible elements of the status bar

The following elements can appear in the status bar of the trend window:

Icon

Name

Description

Connection status

Shows the status of the data connections:

No faulty connections
Faulty connections exist
All connections are faulty

Date

Shows the system date.

Time

Shows the system time.

Time Base

Shows the time base used in the display of times.

Double click on the icon for the connection status to open the window "Status of the data
connections", in which the name, status and tag name of the data connection are listed.

Online configuration of the OnlineTrendControl

Introduction
In runtime, you can configure online and change the display of the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.
Configuring the OnlineTrendControl defines how to proceed with a picture change or after
ending runtime with online configurations.

Overview
The following buttons functions make online configuration possible in OnlineTrendControl:
With key function "Configuration dialog"
With key function "Select data connection"
With key function "Select trends"
With key function "Select time range"

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Key function "Configuration dialog"

With the key function "Configuration dialog" you have access to the configuration dialog tab,
e.g. for changing the display of the trend.

The key function "Select data connection"

With key function "Select data connection" you select the archive tags or online tags for the
value axes, which you want to show in the trend.

Field

Description

Trend

Choose one of the configured trends.

Data Source

Define whether the selected trend is supplied with an archive tag or online tag.

Tag name

Select the tag name for the data connection.

Key function "Select trends"

The key function "Select trends"
opens a dialog, in which you can show or hide trends.
You move trends to the foreground by changing the sequence of the trends.
Note
The first trend of a trend window can not be hidden.

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Key function "Select Time Range"

Select the time range to be displayed for the time axes with key function "Select time range"
. If the trends in a trend window are to be displayed with a common time axis, the specified
time range applies to all trends.

Field

Description

Time axis

Select the configured time axis for which you want to define a time range.

time range

Set the time range:

If you want to define a fixed time interval, select setting "Start to end time". Enter
the date and time for each.
If you want to define a time period, select the setting "Time range". Define the date
and time for the start time. The length of the time interval to be displayed is
determined by multiplying the "Factor" by the "Time unit".
If you want to display a certain number of values, select the setting "Number of
measurement points". Define the date and time for the start time. Enter the desired
number of measurement points in the input field.

The entry format of the date and time depends on the Runtime language used.

Starting and Stopping Update

Introduction
The update of the trend in the trend window can be started and stopped with the "Start/Stop"
key function.
The button indicates whether the update is stopped or not:

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: Update is stopped. Click on the button to continue updating.

: Update is started. Click on the button to stop updating.

How to display the trend in the foreground

Introduction
If more than one trend are to be displayed in a trend window, you can use key functions to
define which trends will be displayed in the foreground.

Requirements
You have configured key functions "Select trends", "Previous trend" and "Next trend".

Procedure

is used for opening a dialog for displaying or hiding trends. You can also define which
trend is in the foreground.
is used for displaying the next trend of the trend window in the foreground.
is used for displaying the previous trend of the trend window in the foreground.

How to Determine the Coordinates of a Point

Introduction
Key function "Ruler" is used for using a ruler to determine the coordinates of a point on the
trend. You can zoom in on an area of the trend to make coordinate finding easier. If you click
on the trend with the mouse, several trend parameters are shown in the tooltip for the trend
window.

Requirements
You have configured a WinCCOnlineTrendControl. In order to highlight the ruler in the
trend window, you can increase the line weight of the ruler on the "Trend window" tab and
configure the color.
You have configured the "Ruler" key function. If you want to zoom in on a section of the
trend, configure key functions "Zoom area" and "Original view".
You have configured a WinCC RulerControl and connected it with the OnlineTrendControl.

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You have selected the ruler window in the RulerControl which shows the coordinates.
You have activated runtime.

How to display the coordinates

1.

In OnlineTrendControl, click on

2. Move the ruler to the desired position with the mouse.

3.

4.

If you want to zoom in on an area, click on

the mouse.

. Move the ruler to the desired position with

If you want to return to the original view, click on

Result
A ruler appears in the trend window. In the ruler window, besides the X value/time stamp and
the Y value, the data that you have configured in WinCC RulerControl is shown in the columns.
The displayed values can be assigned an additional attribute in the form of a letter:

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Letter "i." : The displayed value is an interpolated value.
Letter "u." : The displayed value has an uncertain status. The value is not certain if the initial
value is not known after runtime has been activated, or when a substitute value is used.

Other values can be determined by positioning the mouse pointer on the ruler and moving it
to the desired position while holding the left mouse button pressed.
Note
The "uncertain" status of a value can also be indicated in the displayed trend characteristic.
You must activate the "Value with uncertain status" option on the "Trends" tab under "Limit
values".

How to use the zoom functions in trend windows

Introduction
Key functions can be used for zooming in on, zooming out of and returning to the original view
for trends, axes and various zoom areas of the trend window.

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Overview
The following zoom functions are available in the trend window:
"Zoom area"
"Original view"
"Zoom +/-"
"Zoom time axis +/-"
"Zoom value axis +/-"
"Move trend area"

Requirements
You have configured a WinCCOnlineTrendControl.
You have configured the buttons for the required zoom functions for the toolbar.
You have activated runtime.

How to zoom in on a segment of a trend window

1.

Click

. The updated display is stopped.

2. In the trend window, click one corner of the area that you wish to enlarge.
3. Hold down your left mouse button and drag the area you want to enlarge until it reaches
the desired size. If the highlighted area contains at least two measured values, the selected
trend area is displayed in the trend window.
4. Release the left mouse button. The selected segment is magnified. If you want to increase
the size further, repeat the process.
5.
6.

Click

. The trend window is shown in the originally configured view again.

Click on
to start the update again. The values that have been defined earlier are used
for the X axis and the Y axis.

How to zoom in and zoom out of the trends

1.

Click

. The updated display is stopped.

2. Click in the trend window with the left mouse button to zoom in on the trends in the trend
window. If you want to increase the size further, repeat the process.
3. If you want to zoom out of the trends, press the "Shift" button while clicking with the left
mouse button.
4. While zooming in or zooming out with trends, the 50% value of the trends is always in the
middle of the value axes.

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5.
6.

Click

. The trend window is shown in the original view again.

Click on
to start the update again. The values that have been defined earlier are used
for the X axis and the Y axis.
Note
If you change the value area of a value axis on the "Value Axis" tab in the configuration
dialog while zooming, the visible zoom area is set to the new value area.

How to zoom with time axes and value axes

1.

Click on
stopped.

to zoom time axes or on

to zoom value axes. The updated display is

2. Click in the trend window with the left mouse button to zoom in on the time axes or value
axes. If you want to increase the size further, repeat the process.
3. If you want to zoom out of the time axes or value axes, press the "Shift" button while clicking
with the left mouse button.
4. While zooming with axes, the 50% value of the trend is always in the middle of the axes.
5.
6.

Click

. The trend window is shown in the original view again.

Click on
to start the update again. The values that have been defined earlier are used
for the X axis and the Y axis.

How to move the trend area

1.

Click

. The updated display is stopped.

2. While holding the left mouse button down, move the cursor in the desired direction in the
trend window. The displayed area in the trend window is adapted on the time axis and on
the value axis.
3.

If you click on

again, the trend window is shown in the original view again.

How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data

Introduction
You can generate an evaluation of runtime process data in the trend window. The evaluated
data is shown in the WinCC RulerControl.

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Overview
Depending on the data evaluation, there are three different types of windows for displaying
values. The following window types are available:
The ruler window shows the coordinates of a trend on the ruler.
The statistics area window shows the values of the lower limit and upper limit of the trends.
The statistics window shows the statistical evaluation of the trends. Among other things,
the statistics include:
Minimum
Maximum
Average
Standard deviation
Integral
All windows can also show additional information on the values of the connected trends.

Requirements
You have configured a WinCCOnlineTrendControl. In order to highlight the ruler defining
the statistics area, you can increase the line weight of the ruler on the "Trend window" tab
and configure the color.
You have configured a WinCC RulerControl and connected it with the OnlineTrendControl.
You have selected the window in the RulerControl which shows the desired data.
You have configured key functions "Set statistics range", "Calculate statistics" and "Start/
Stop". If a display of the values in a ruler window is sufficient, you do not need key functions
"Select statistics area" and "Calculate statistics".
You require key function "Select time range", if you wish to choose a statistics area outside
of the time range displayed in the trend window.
You require key function "Configuration dialog" if you want to switch between the statistics
windows and the ruler window.
You have activated runtime.

How to display the data in a statistics area window

1.
2.

Click on

in OnlineTrendControl if the updated display is supposed to be stopped.

Click
. The updated display is stopped, process data continue to be archived. Two
vertical lines are displayed at the left and right edge of the trend window.

3. Move the ruler until the desired area is selected.

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4. The evaluated data is displayed in the columns that you have configured in the statistics
area window.

5. If you want an evaluation of data that is not displayed in OnlineTrendControl, click on

. Enter the desired time range for the selected time axis in the "Time selection" dialog.
The data for the defined time range is displayed. You can now evaluate this data.
6.

In order to continue with the display in OnlineTrendControl, click on

How to display the data in a statistics window

1.

2.

In OnlineTrendControl, click on
continues being archived.

. The updated display is stopped, the process data

Click
. The updated display is stopped, process data continue to be archived. Two
vertical lines are displayed at the left and right edge of the trend window.

3. Move the ruler until the desired area is selected.

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4.

Click
. The evaluated data is displayed in the columns that you have configured in the
statistics window.

5. If you want an evaluation of data that is not displayed in OnlineTrendControl, click on

. Enter the desired time range for the selected time axis in the "Time selection" dialog.
The data for the defined time range is displayed. You can now evaluate this data.
6.

In order to continue with the display in OnlineTrendControl, click on

Note
The displayed values can be assigned an additional attribute in the form of a letter:
Letter "i." : The displayed value is an interpolated value.
Letter "u." : The displayed value has an uncertain status. The value is not certain if the
initial value is not known after runtime has been activated, or when a substitute value
is used.
Note
For additional statistical analysis of process data and archiving of results you must write
the scripts yourself.

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How to display archived values

Introduction
Use the buttons in the toolbar of a trend window or the corresponding key combinations to
browse through an archive.
The values archived of a tag are displayed within a time interval in the trend window. The time
interval is defined by entering a time range or by entering a start and end time.

Requirements
The buttons for browsing in archive are available only if data is supplied through archive
tags.
You have defined a time range or a start and end time.

Buttons for Archived Values

The progress of a tag over a specified time period, beginning with the first archived value,
is displayed in the trend window.
The progress of a tag within the previous time interval is displayed in the trend window,
starting with the currently displayed time interval.
The progress of a tag within the following time interval is displayed in the trend window,
starting with the currently displayed time interval.
The progress of a tag over a specified time period, ending with the last archived value, is
displayed in the trend window.

Example project for OnlineTrendControl

Example configuration of an OnlineTrendControl
Introduction
The following example shows the configuration of a WinCC OnlineTrendControl with two trends
and the display in runtime. With key function "Configuration dialog" in runtime, you can change
the display of the trends at any time and view the effects immediately.

Configuration steps
1. Insert the OnlineTrendControl into a picture of the Graphics Designer.
2. Configure the OnlineTrendControl properties.
3. Create a trend window.

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4. Configure a time axis with the respective properties. Assign the time axes to the trend
window.
5. Configure two value axis with the respective properties. Assign the value axes to the trend
window.
6. Define two trends and assign the trends to the trend windows. Assign the trends with the
time axis and the value axes.
7. Connect the two trends with an online tag for each.
8. Configure the display for each trend.
9. Save the picture with the OnlineTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.
10.Define the picture as a start picture with the example project.
11.Start runtime.
12.Start the tag simulator to supply the trends with data.
13.Deactivate runtime if you want to end the example project.

How to configure the trend window

Introduction
The example has a trend window embedded in a WinCC OnlineTrendControl. This chapter
shows the configuration of the properties of the control and the trend window.

Requirements
You have opened a picture in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Insert a WinCC OnlineTrendControl into the picture from the object palette in the Graphics
Designer. Use the mouse to drag the control to the desired size.
2. Double-click in the control. The configuration dialog opens.

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3. Go to the "General" tab.

4. Select the "Normal" window heading. Activate the "Moveable", "Can Be Closed" and
"Sizeable" options. "From the right" is defined as the writer orientation and updating will
start when the picture is opened.
5. Save the configuration.
6. Go to the "Trend windows" tab. Define a trend window with the "New" button. The gridlines
are displayed in runtime.
7. Configure the display of the ruler. If you use "Graphic" for the display of the ruler, you can
configure the color and the line weight of the ruler.
8. Save the configuration.

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9. Go to the "Toolbar" tab. You require the following key functions to test the example:
Configuration Dialog
All key functions for zooming and moving
Original view
Ruler
10.Save the configuration.

How to configure the axes of the OnlineTrendControl

Introduction
The trend window of the example has a time axis and two value axes. The last 50 values of
the trend in relation to the current time are shown in the trend window.

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Requirements
You have defined a trend window.

Procedure
1. Go to the "Time axes" tab. Define a time axis with the "New" button.

2. Assign the time axis to the configured trend window. Select "Bottom" for the alignment of
the time axis.
3. Activate the "Update" option to display the values in relation to the current time.

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4. Select setting "Number of measurement points" in the "Time range" area. You do not have
to define the start time because the last 50 values in relation to the current time will be
displayed in the example. Enter "50" for the number of measurement points in the input
field.
5. Configure the desired format for time and date.
6. Save the configuration.
7. Go to the "Value axes" tab. Define two value axes with the "New" button.

8. Assign the value axes to the configured trend window.

9. Configure the alignment for each value axis. The first value axis should be left-justified, the
second right-justified.

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10.Select "Linear" for the scaling.
11.The option "Automatic" is activated for both value axes in the "Value range" area. The value
range for the value axes is based on the tag values.
12.Save the configuration.

How to configure the trends

Introduction
The trend window in the example shows two trends with a common time axis. Each trend has
its own value axis. The trends are supplied with data by online tags. The customer display can
be configured individually.

Requirements
You have defined a trend window.
You have configured a time axis and two value axes.
You have created two non-binary tags in the tag management.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Trends" tab. Define two trends with the "New" button.

2. Assign each trend with the configured trend window and the time axes. Trend1 is assigned
with ValueAxis1 and Trend2 with ValueAxis2.
3. Define the data connection for each trend. Select "Online tags".
4. Click on , to select the tags for the trends.
5. Configure the display for each trend as desired. More information on configuration can be
found on page .
6. Save the configuration.

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How to start the example on OnlineTrendControl

Introduction
In order to test the example of the OnlineTrendControl in runtime, you must made many
settings in the project.

Requirements
You have saved the configured picture in the Graphics Designer.
You have defined the picture in the WinCC Explorer as the start picture via the context
menu.

You have checked for whether "Graphics Runtime" and "Tag Logging Runtime" are
activated in the "Computer properties" dialog.

Procedure
1. Activate runtime by clicking the relevant button in the toolbar or selecting the relevant menu
bar.
2. Start the tag simulator to test the WinCC OnlineTrendControl with the tags.
3. Go to "Start/SIMATIC/WinCC/Tools" on your computer.
4. Select the "WinCC Tag Simulator". The simulation program will open.
5. Define two tags that you have connected in OnlineTrendControl.
6. Assign the tag with property "Random" and click on the "Active" option.
7. Save the settings in each case.

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8. Click the "Start Simulation" button. The simulation is started and the trend supplied with
data.
9. Deactivate runtime if you want to end the example project.

Result
The trends are displayed in runtime with the values that create the tag simulator.

Button
brings you to the configuration dialog, in which you can change the display of the
trends as you wish on the "Trends" tab. You will immediately see the results of your
configuration.
Test all functions for zooming and move the trend or the axes. More information is found under
.
More information on operating the OnlineTrendControl in runtime is found under .
You can expand the OnlineTrendControl with a ruler window for example. More information
can be found under and .

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6.5.2.4

Process Value Output as a Function of Another Tag

Resources
WinCC FunctionTrendControl
Introduction
For a graphic processing of tags, WinCC FunctionTrendControl in WinCC offers the option of
displaying one tag as a function of another tag. For example, temperature may be shown as
a function of pressure.

Requirements
For the display of trends in WinCC FunctionTrendControl the following prerequisites apply:
You can display as many trends as you need in a WinCC FunctionTrendControl.
Configuring a maximum of 8 trends is recommended.
A trend can represent a maximum of 10000 value pairs.
You can use online tags, archive tags or data from user archives for the trends.
The online tags of a trend must have the identical update cycle.

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The archive tags of a trend must have the same update cycle and must be recorded in a
continuous cycle.
The representation of tags in the form of functions over time is only possible, if the values
of the trend are supplied through the API interface. In order to display tags as time functions,
use the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

Resolution of Trend Display

The number of trend values that can be displayed on the screen is limited by the screen
resolution and selected size of the trend window. Therefore, when displaying trends, it is
possible that fewer values are displayed in the trend window than are actually archived.
If, for example, in an area of 100 pixels 200 measured values are archived, each pixel
represents 2 measured values. The value shown on the screen is that of the most recent data
(most recent time stamp).

See also
Short Description of the WinCC Controls and Additional Controls (Page320)

Display of Trends
Representing Trend Lines
Introduction
The WinCC FunctionTrendControl has many ways of displaying the progress of a trend.

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Representation formats
To display values graphically, three basic representation types are available:
No trend
The values are shown as dots. The display of the points can be configured as you wish.

Connect dots linearly

The trend line is interpolated on a linear basis from the point values. The display of the lines
and points can be configured as you wish.

Stepped trend
The progress of the trend line is determined from the values as a stepped trend. The display
of the lines and points can be configured as you wish.

The display of the trend can be configured on the "Trends" tab of the FunctionTrendControl.

Write direction
With the write direction option, you can specify where the current values for all trend windows
are to be entered. Normally, the current values are written in the trend window from the right.
All four write directions can be configured. The write direction is configured on the "General"
tab of the FunctionTrendControl.

Displaying the trends with logarithmic axes

The axes in the trend window can be scaled on either a logarithmic or a linear basis. No
negative values can be displayed in the display with logarithmic axes. No positive values can
be displayed in the display with negative logarithmic axes. The display with logarithmic axes
is configured on the "X axes" and "Y axes" tabs of the FunctionTrendControl.

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Display with common axes

Introduction
When displaying more than one trend in a trend window, you can assign every trend with its
own axes or use a common time X axis or Y axis.

Representation Using Different Axes

If the values to be displayed in a trend window differ greatly, a common axis makes no sense.
The values can be read more easily if different axial scales are used. Individual axes can be
hidden if required.

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Representation Using Common Axes

If the comparability of the trend lines is important, common axes in a trend window is sensible.
Connected trend windows can have a common axis.

Configuring
The axes are configured on the "X axis" and "Y axis" tabs of the FunctionTrendControl. The
assignment of the axes for the trends can be configured on the "Trends" tab. In this case, you
can assign the individual trends to the same axes.

Configuring the FunctionTrendControl

How to configure the FunctionTrendControl
Introduction
Process values of a tag can be displayed depending on the process values of another tag in
trends. You can configure a WinCC FunctionTrendControl for this in the Graphics Designer.

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Configuration steps
1. Insert the FunctionTrendControl into a picture of the Graphics Designer.
2. Configure the basic properties for the FunctionTrendControl on the "General" tab:
the window properties of the control
the display of the control
the write direction of the trend values
the time base of the control
3. Define one or more trend windows.
4. Configure one or more X axes and Y axes with their respective properties. Assign the axes
to the trend windows.
5. Define trends that you want to display in the trend windows. Assign the trends to the trend
windows. Assign each trend an X axis and a Y axis that belong to the respective trend
window.
6. Configure the display for each trend.
7. Every configured trend must be connected with an online tag, archive tag or a user archive
via the X axis and Y axis. Define the data supply for the axes of each trend.
8. Configure the toolbar and status bar of the trend window.
9. If you want to display the coordinates of the trends, configure a ruler window as well.
Connect the ruler window with the FunctionTrendControl.
10.Save the configurations.

How to create the trend window in FunctionTrendControl

Introduction
The WinCC FunctionTrendControl can contain one or more trend windows. The trend window
provides an area to display trends in.

Overview of the trend window

The trend window has the following properties:
Every trend window is assigned with at least one trend, which has one X axis and one Y
axis.
A trend can only be assigned to one trend window.
Several trends can be displayed in a trend window.
A trend window can display X axes and Y axes independent of the displayed trends. X axes
and Y axes can be hidden in runtime.

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The sequence of the configured trend window is determined by the position in
FunctionTrendControl. The first trend window in the list of trend windows is displayed in
the lower position, the last trend window is shown in the top position.
If more than one trend window is configured, the trend windows can be connected. The
connected trend windows have the following properties:
They can have a common X axis.
They have a scroll bar.
They have a ruler.
The zoom functions for a trend window affect the connected trend windows.

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Procedure
1. Define one or more trend windows with the "New" button on the "trend windows" tab.

2. If you have defined more than one trend window, more configurations are possible:
Assign every trend window with an area selection in the displayed FunctionTrendControl.
Define the position of the trend windows with the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
Define whether the trend window will be connected on the "General" tab.
3. If you want to hide a trend window in runtime, deactivate the checkbox in front of the name
of the trend window in the list. The respective axes are then hidden as well.
4. Configure the gridlines for every trend window.

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5. Configure the display of the ruler. If you use "Graphic" for the display of the ruler, you can
configure the color and the line weight of the ruler.
6. Define the level on which to display the ruler in the trend window.
7. Save the configuration.

How to configure the axes of trend windows

Introduction
You can configure several X axes and Y axes that you assign to one or more trend windows.
Configure the value range and the display for each X axis and Y axis.

Requirements
You have opened the picture with the FunctionTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.
You have defined trend windows.

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Procedure
1. Define one or more axes with the "New" button on the "X axes" and "Y axes" tabs. Here
e.g. tab "X axes":

2. Assign the X axes and Y axes to the configured trend windows.

3. If you want to hide an X axis or Y axis in the trend window, click on the checkbox in front
of the name of the axis in the list. You can display the axes again in runtime with the key
functions.
4. Configure the orientation and scaling for each X axis and Y axis.
5. Configure the display of the axes in trend windows.

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6. Deactivate the "Automatic" option in "Value range" if you want to define a fixed value range
for the X axis or Y axis.
7. In the "From:" and "To:" input fields enter the minimum and maximum value of the value
range.
8. Save the configuration.

How to create trends for the trend window

Introduction
Every trend is displayed in a trend window with an X axis and a Y axis. The trends can use
the same axes in a trend window.

Requirements
You have inserted the FunctionTrendControl into a picture of the Graphics Designer.
You have configured X axes, Y axes and trend window.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Trends" tab.

2. Use the "New" button to define the desired number of trends.

3. Define the sequence of trends in the trend window using "Up" and "Down" keys.
4. Assign every trend to a trend window. Several trends can be assigned to one trend window.
5. Assign an X axis and a Y axis to every trend. You can only use the axes that belong to the
assigned trend window for the trend.
6. Configure the display for each trend. More information can be found on page "How to
configure the display of trends".

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7. The data connection of the trends are configured on the "Data connection" tab. More
information can be found on page "How to configure the data connection of trends".
8. Save the configuration.

How to configure the display of trends

Introduction
You can adjust the display of trends to suit your requirements in the WinCC controls. The
following WinCC controls are shown in trends:
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
WinCC FunctionTrendControl

Overview
The following trends features can be configured:
The types of trends and trend lines
The properties of trend lines
The colors of the trends, the trend points and the fill color
Color identification for a limit value violation

Requirements
You have opened the Graphics Designer and configured a picture with the above mentioned
WinCC control.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is opened.

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Configuring the types of trends and trend lines

1. Go to the "Trends" tab. Here e.g. in WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

2. Choose a trend under "Trends".

3. Define the type of the trends and trend lines in the "Display" area.
4. If you want to highlight the display of the area under the trend, activate the "Filled" option.
5. In the small picture in the right-hand margin of the "Display" area, the result of the
configuration is shown.
6. Save the configuration.

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Configuring the properties of trend lines

1. Choose a trend under "Trends".
2. Define the properties of the trend lines in the "Display" area.
3. Define the line weight and the properties of the trend points.
4. In the small picture in the right-hand margin of the "Display" area, the result of the
configuration is shown.
5. Save the configuration.

Configuring the colors of the trends, the trend points and the fill color
1. Choose a trend under "Trends".
2. Define the colors in the "Display" area.
3. If you want to configure the colors of the trend points and the fill color, activate the
"Extended" option.
4. In the small picture in the right-hand margin of the "Display" area, the result of the
configuration is shown.
5. Save the configuration.

Configuring the color identification for a limit value violation

1. Choose a trend under "Trends".
2. Click in the "Display" area on the "Limit values" button. This will open the "Limit values"
dialog.

3. Activate the limit values, for which you want a colored identification.
4. Define the color for every activated option.

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5. The colored identification has the following effect:
Low limit value. Whenever a displayed trend value is below the value defined in the
"Value" input field, the value is shown in the configured color.
High Limit Value. Whenever a displayed trend value is above the value defined in the
"Value" input field, the value is shown in the configured color.
Value with uncertain status. Values, whose start value is unknown on activating runtime
or for which a substitute value is used, have an uncertain status. These values are
displayed in the configured colors.
6. Save the configuration.

How to Configure the Data Connection of Trends

Introduction
The trends are provided with values from various tags to display a tag as a function of another
tag in a certain time range. The values of the trends can also originate from a user archive
independent of time, to e.g. display a setpoint trend.

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Time range of the trend display

Basically, there are two different time references in the trend display:
Static display. The time range of the trend display is determined by a pre-defined, fixed
time interval, independent of the current system time.

Dynamic display. The time range of the trend display is determined retrospectively from the
most current values. The display is continuously updated. The configured time range follows
the current system time.

You have three different ways to define the time range of a time range for each of the two time
references:
The trend is displayed within a defined time interval. You define a start time and an end
time. In a dynamic display, the end time corresponds with the current system time. The
time difference between the start time and the end time is the time range for the trend
display.
The trend is displayed from a start time throughout a defined time range, e.g. 30 minutes
from the start time. In the dynamic display, the defined time range up to the current system
time is used, e.g. 30 minutes to the current system time.
Starting from a start time, a defined number of values are shown, e.g. 100 values from the
start time. With the dynamic display, the last values up to the current system time are shown.

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Requirements
You have opened a picture with the FunctionTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.
You have defined one or more trends.
The following prerequisites apply for the basic data:
If you want to connect data of online tags, you have to have defined process values in
the tag management.
If you want to connect the data from archive tags, you have to have configured a process
value archive with archive tags.
If you want to connect the data from an archive tag, you have to have configured a user
archive with columns.
If you want to use a script to supply the trend values with data in runtime, you will require
a script through the API interface. E.g. the display of a tag as a time function if you do
not want to use the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Data connection" tab.

2. Define the data source for each trend. You can select the following:
Archive tags of a process value archive
Online tags from the tag management
User archive columns
No configured data source to establish a connection in runtime via a script.

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3.

Click on
to select the tags for the X axis and the Y axis. The online tags connected to
a trend must have the identical update cycle. The archive tags connected with a trend must
originate from the process archive of a server and be acquired in a continuous cycle.

4. If the data is connected with a user archive, select columns of the user archive for the X
axis and Y axis. Define the "ID" for each column, starting from which the values of the
column will be used.
5. If the trends in the trend window are always updated, activate the "Update" option. If you
e.g. want to compare a current trend display with an earlier trend display, deactivate the
"Update" option for the comparison trend.
6. Configure the time range in which the trend will be displayed:
If you want to define a fixed time interval, select setting "Start to end time". Enter the
date and time for each.
If you want to define a time period, select the setting "Time range". Define the date and
time for the start time. The time range is the result of a multiplication of the "Factor" and
"Time unit", e.g. 30 times "1 minute" for a time range of 30 minutes. Enter the factor and
the time unit in the "Time range" field.
If you want to display a certain number of values, select the setting "Number of
measurement points". Define the date and time for the start time. Enter the desired
number of measurement points in the input field.
If the trend will be provided via a user archive, define the number of value pairs for the
area to be displayed. Enter the desired number in the "Number of measurement points"
field.
7. Save the configuration.

How to configure the toolbar and the status bar

Introduction
The WinCC controls are operated at runtime using the functions of the toolbar buttons. The
status bar contains information pertaining to the current status of the WinCC control. You can
adapt the toolbar and the status bar for all WinCC controls when configuring, or at runtime.

Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The WinCC control is assigned the "Configuration dialog" button function for opening the
configuration dialog in Runtime.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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How to configure the toolbar

1. Go to the "Toolbar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. In the list, activate the button functions you require for operating the WinCC control in
Runtime. For information on the button functions, refer to the description of the
corresponding WinCC control at "Operation in runtime".
3. Determine the sorting order for displaying the button functions in the toolbar. Select the
button functions from the list and the move the functions using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. Define a hotkey for the functions of the toolbar buttons.
5. Any button functions assigned operator authorizations are only available in Runtime to
authorized users.

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6. An activated button function is displayed in runtime if you deactivate its "Active" option,
however, it cannot be operated.
7. You can set separators between the button functions. Activate the "Separator" option for
the button function to be restricted by separator.
8. Configure the general properties of the toolbar, e.g. alignment or background color.

How to configure the status bar

1. Go to the "Status bar" tab. In the WinCC AlarmControl, for example:

2. Activate the elements required in runtime in the list of status bar elements. For further
information on status bar elements, refer to the descriptions of the corresponding WinCC
control at "Operation in runtime".

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3. Determine the sorting order for displaying of the status bar elements. Select the elements
from the list and move these using the "Up" and "Down" buttons.
4. To resize the width of a status bar element, deactivate the "Automatic" option and enter a
pixel value for the width.
5. Configure the general properties of the status bar, e.g. alignment or background color.

How to configure the Ruler window/Statistics window/Statistics area window

Introduction
Evaluated data and statistics are shown in a table in a ruler window, statistics window or a
statistics area window. The ruler window/statistics window/statistics area window are
configured in the WinCC RulerControl.

Overview of the WinCC RulerControl

The RulerControl can be connected with the following controls:
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
WinCC OnlineTableControl
WinCC FunctionTrendControl
Depending on the data evaluation, there are three different types of windows for displaying
values. The following window types are available:
The ruler window shows the coordinate values of the trends on a ruler or values of a selected
line in the table.
The statistics area window shows the values of the lower limit and upper limit of the trends
between two rulers or the selected area in the table. The statistics area window is not
planned for the WinCC FunctionTrendControl.
The statistics window shows the statistic evaluation of the trends between two rulers or the
selected values in the table. The statistics window is not planned for the WinCC
FunctionTrendControl.
All windows can also display additional information on the connected trends or columns.

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Requirements
You have opened a picture with an OnlineTrendControl, OnlineTableControl or
FunctionTrendControl in the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Insert RulerControl into the picture from the WinCC object palette.
2. Double click on the RulerControl to open the configuration dialog.

3. Configure the properties of the control on the "General", "Toolbar" and "Status bar" tabs.
4. Go to the "General" tab in the field "Source" and select the object name of the control that
is already configured. The type of control is displayed in the "Type" field.

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5. Set the window type in the "Window" field. If the key function "Configuration dialog" can be
operated in runtime, you can change the window type in runtime.
6. Go to the "Columns" tab.

7. Use the arrow keys to select the column of the window type that you want to display for the
assigned control. Columns for the basic data and columns that are only for the selected
window type or the assigned control are available. Define the column sequence with buttons
"Up" and "Down".

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8. Go to the "Blocks" tab.

Every column corresponds with a block. In order to define the properties for the selected
columns, click on the respective blocks.
9. If a special format exists for a block, you can configure the format of the block. Deactivate
the option "Apply from source" if the format settings of the connected control are not to
apply in this case. Define the desired format.
10.Define whether the data for the column and the column heading is to be displays as text or
as an icon in the table under "Display".
11.Save the configuration.

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12.Configure the properties and the display of the table for the RulerControl in the "Parameter,"
"Effects" and "Selection" tabs. You can find more on configuring the display of the table
under .
13.You can export the evaluated data. This requires activating the "Export data" key function
on the "Toolbar" tab. You can find more on exporting data under .
14.Configuring the TrendRulerControl is possible in runtime. You can find more on this under .

How to export runtime data

Introduction
The runtime data shown in the WinCC controls can be exported using a button function. Set
up operation of the data export in runtime in the configuration dialog.

Requirements
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

How to configure the operation of the data export

1. Go to the "Export" tab.

2. A standard file name and a standard directory are already entered in the "Data export default
settings." In this case for AlarmControl. If necessary, define a file name and a directory for
the export file.
3.

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CSV is currently available as data format. Click on

file.

to define the separator in the CSV

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4. Define the scope of the data export:
All runtime data is exported
Selected runtime data is exported. This data export is only possible in WinCC controls
with tabular display.
5. Configure the operation of the data export in runtime. Define:
whether users are allowed to rename the file, or change the directory.
whether to display the "Data export default settings" dialog in Runtime.
6. If "Display dialog" is deactivated, the data for operation of the "Export data" button function
is immediately exported to the defined export file.
7. Save the configuration.
8. Go to the "Toolbar" tab to activate the "Export data" button function for runtime.

Results
You can export all or selected data to a defined file at runtime using button function

How to define the effect of the online configuration

Introduction
Users can parameterize the WinCC controls in Runtime. You must define the runtime effects
of the online configuration.
Changes configured at runtime are saved to a separate picture in the configuration system.
The original picture configuration is retained in the configuration system.

Prerequisite
A picture showing a WinCC control is opened in Graphics Designer when configuring.
The configuration dialog of the WinCC control is open.

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Procedure
1. Go to the "Online configuration" tab. For example, in OnlineTrendControl:

2. The option buttons of the "Online configuration" field for setting online configuration defaults
are only available in the configuration system. The option buttons are not available in
runtime.
Select one of the three effects of the online configuration:
"Do not retain". The online configurations are not retained in Runtime. This default
setting disables all options for runtime users. Online configurations are lost at the next
picture change and on activation/deactivation of the project.
"Retain during runtime". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change

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if the "retain" option is enabled, however, these are lost on activation/deactivation of the
project.
"Retain permanently". This default setting enables the "discard", "retain" or "reset"
options for runtime users. Online configurations are retained at the next picture change
and on activation/deactivation of the project if the "retain" option is enabled.
3. Define corresponding user authorizations for online configuration.
4. The option buttons of the "Online configuration on next picture change" can be enabled for
operation in the configuration system and at runtime by setting the "retain at runtime" and
"retain permanently" defaults. The "reset" operation is only available in runtime, because
the configuration system contains the original configuration.
Select one of three effects of the online configuration at the next picture change:
Select "discard" if to discard the online configuration at the next picture change.
Activate "retain" to activate the online configuration based on default settings at the next
picture change or on activation/deactivation of the project.
Activate "reset" to activate a picture which is older than the version stored in the
configuration system for runtime. All online changes are lost.
Note
The picture is also replaced at runtime if you save it in Graphics Designer, or when
loading deltas in online mode. All online changes are lost.
5. Save the configuration.
Note
The different configurations are only activated for new users after you performed a picture
change.

How to make the toolbar for the FunctionTrendControl dynamic

Introduction
The default functions for operating the WinCC FunctionTrendControl are no longer supported
for the new WinCC FunctionTrendControl as of WinCC V7.0. You can use the WinCC types
of dynamics to e.g. operate a key function of the toolbar with a script.

Overview
With WinCC controls as of V7.0, special functions are no longer required for operating the
control with toolbar dynamics. The previously used standard functions "TrendToolbarButton"
are no longer supported.
If you do not want to operate the control via the toolbar, you can write the "ID" for the desired
button in the "ToolbarButtonClick" object property with an optional type of dynamics.
The "ID" of a button of the toolbar can be determined:

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with the table on page "Operation of the FunctionTrendControl in runtime".
in the configuration dialog of the FunctionTrendControl on the "Toolbar" tab via field "Object
ID".

Example: Open the configuration dialog for the control

In order to open the configuration dialog of the control, dynamics are possible as follows:
VBScript:
ScreenItems("Control1").ToolbarButtonClick = 2
As an alternative to the property "ToolbarButtonClick", there are also methods in VBS
for operating the toolbar: ScreenItems("Control1").ShowPropertyDialog
Or, with the following notation with the support of "Intellisense":
Dim obj
Set obj = ScreenItems("Control1")
obj.ShowPropertyDialog
C script:
SetPropWord(lpszPictureName, "Control1", "ToolbarButtonClick", 2);
Direct connection
In the dialog for the direct connection for the source, enter "2" as a constant
Select the property "ToolButtonClick" for the object "Control1" for the target "Object in
picture"

See also
Operating the FunctionTrendControl in runtime (Page1304)

Operation in Runtime
Operating the FunctionTrendControl in runtime
Introduction
The trend window is operated in runtime via the buttons in the toolbar. If you do not want to
operate the trend window via the toolbar, you can write the "ID" for the desired button in the
"ToolbarButtonClick" object property with an optional type of dynamics.

Overview
Icon

Description

ID

"Help"

Calls up the help on WinCC FunctionTrendControl.

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"Configuration dialog"

Opens the configuration dialog, in which you can change the properties of
the FunctionTrendControl.
"Zoom area"

Define an area by dragging with the mouse in the trend window. This cut-out
of the trend window is made larger. The "Original view" button brings back
the original size of the view.
"Zoom +/-"

Zooms in on or out off the trends in the trend window. . The left mouse button
increases the size of the trends. By holding the "Shift" button down, the left
mouse button zooms out of the trends. The "Original view" button brings
back the original size of the view.
"Zoom X axis +/-"

Zooms in on or out off the X axis in the trend window. The left mouse button
increases the size of the X axis. By holding the "Shift" button down, the left
mouse button zooms out of the X axis. The "Original view" button brings back
the original size of the view.
"Zoom Y axis +/-"

Zooms in on or out off the Y axis in the trend window. The left mouse button
increases the size of the Y axis. By holding the "Shift" button down, the left
mouse button zooms out of the Y axis. The "Original view" button brings back
the original size of the view.
"Move trend area"

The button moves the trend along the X axis and Y axis in the trend window.
"Move axes area"

This button moves the trends along the value axis in the trend window.
"Original view"

10

This button returns from the zoomed trend display back to the original view.
"Select data connection"

11

This button opens a dialog for the archive selection and tag selection.
"Select trends"

12

This button opens the dialog for toggling the visible and invisible trends. You
can also define which trend is displayed in the foreground.
"Select Time Range"

13

This button opens the dialog where you can specify the time range to be
displayed in a trend window.
"Previous trend"

14

This button is used for displaying the previous trend of the trend window in
the foreground.
"Next trend"

15

This button is used for displaying the next trend of the trend window in the
foreground.
"Stop"

16

The updated display is stopped. The data is saved to the clipboard and
added when the button in the trend window is clicked again.
"Start"

16

Resume updated display.

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"Print"

17

Click this button to print the trend shown in the trend window. The print job
used for printing is defined in the configuration dialog on the "General" tab.
"Export data"

20

This button is used for exporting all or the selected runtime data into a "CSV"
file. If the option "Display dialog" is active, a dialog opens in which you can
view the settings for exporting and can start the export. With the respective
authorization, you are also allowed to select the file and the directory for the
export.
If a dialog is displayed, the export of the data to the predefined file starts
immediately.
"Ruler"

The coordinate points of a trend are queried with this button. The trend data
is displayed in the ruler window. The button is only functional if a ruler window
is connected with the FunctionTrendControl.
"Connect backup"

18

This button opens a dialog in which you connect the selected archive with
WinCC Runtime.
"Disconnect backup"

19

This button opens a dialog in which you disconnect the selected archive from
WinCC Runtime.
"User-defined 1"

1001

Shows the first key function created by the user. The function of the button
is user-defined.

Possible elements of the status bar

The following elements can appear in the status bar of the trend window:

Icon

Name

Description

Connection status

Shows the status of the data connections:

No faulty connections
Faulty connections exist
All connections are faulty

Date

Shows the system date.

Time

Shows the system time.

Time Base

Shows the time base used in the display of times.

Double click on the icon for the connection status to open the window "Status of the data
connections", in which the name, status and tag name of the data connection are listed.

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Online configuration of the FunctionTrendControl

Introduction
In runtime, you can configure online and change the display of the WinCC
FunctionTrendControl. Configuring the WinCC FunctionTrendControl defines how to proceed
with a picture change or after ending runtime with online configurations.

Overview
The following buttons functions make online configuration possible in FunctionTrendControl:
With key function "Configuration dialog"
With key function "Select trends"
With key function "Select time range"

Key function "Configuration dialog"

With the key function "Configuration dialog"
tab, e.g. for changing the display of the trend.

you have access to the configuration dialog

Key function "Select trends"

The key function "Select trends"
opens a dialog, in which you can show or hide trends.
You move trends to the foreground by changing the sequence of the trends.

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Key function "Select time range"

Select the time range in which the trend will be displayed with key function "Select time range"
.

Field

Description

Trends

Select the trend for which you want to define a time range.

time range

Set the time range:

If you want to define a fixed time interval, select setting "Start to end time". Enter
the date and time for each.
If you want to define a time period, select the setting "Time range". Define the date
and time for the start time. The length of the time interval to be displayed is
determined by multiplying the "Factor" by the "Time unit".
If you want to display a certain number of values, select the setting "Number of
measurement points". Define the date and time for the start time. Enter the desired
number of measurement points in the input field.

The entry format of the date and time depends on the Runtime language used.

Starting and Stopping Update

Introduction
The update of the trend in the trend window can be started and stopped with the "Start/Stop"
key function.
The button indicates whether the update is stopped or not:

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: Update is stopped. Click on the button to continue updating.

: Update is started. Click on the button to stop updating.

How to display the trend in the foreground

Introduction
If more than one trend are to be displayed in a trend window, you can use key functions to
define which trends will be displayed in the foreground.

Requirements
You have configured key functions "Select trends", "Previous trend" and "Next trend".

Procedure

is used for opening a dialog for displaying or hiding trends. You can also define which
trend is in the foreground.
is used for displaying the next trend of the trend window in the foreground.
is used for displaying the previous trend of the trend window in the foreground.

How to Determine the Coordinates of a Point

Introduction
Key function "Ruler" is used for defining the coordinates of a point on the trend with cross-hairs
or the rulers. You can zoom in on an area of the trend to make coordinate finding easier. You
can also read many trend parameters in the trend window with the mouse on the trend.

Requirements
You have configured a WinCC FunctionTrendControl. In order to highlight the ruler in the
trend window, you can increase the line weight on the "Trend window" tab and configure
the color.
You have configured the "Ruler" key function. If you want to zoom in on a section of the
trend, configure key functions "Zoom area" and "Original view".
You have configured a WinCC RulerControl as a ruler window and connected it with the
FunctionTrendControl.
You have activated runtime.

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How to display the coordinates

1.

In FunctionTrendControl, click on

2. Move the cross-hairs or the ruler to the desired position with the mouse.
3.

4.

If you want to zoom in on an area, click on

the mouse.

. Move the ruler to the desired position with

If you want to return to the original view, click on

Result
Two rulers or the cross-hairs appear in the trend window. In the ruler window, besides the X
value and the Y value, the data that you have configured in WinCC RulerControl is shown in
the columns.
The displayed values can be assigned an additional attribute in the form of a letter:
Letter "i." : The displayed value is an interpolated value.
Letter "u." : The displayed value has an uncertain status. The value is not certain if the initial
value is not known after runtime has been activated, or when a substitute value is used.

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Other values can be determined by positioning the mouse pointer on the cross-hairs or the
ruler and moving it to the desired position while holding the left mouse button pressed.
Note
The "uncertain" status of a value can also be indicated in the displayed trend characteristic.
You must activate the "Value with uncertain status" option on the "Trends" tab under "Limit
values".

How to use the zoom functions in trend windows

Introduction
Key functions can be used for zooming in on, zooming out of and returning to the original view
for trends, axes and various zoom areas of the trend window.

Overview
The following zoom functions are available in the trend window:
"Zoom area"
"Original view"
"Zoom +/-"
"Zoom X axis +/-"
"Zoom Y axis +/-"
"Move trend area"

Requirements
You have configured a WinCC FunctionTrendControl.
You have configured the buttons for the required zoom functions for the toolbar.
You have activated runtime.

How to zoom in on a segment of a trend window

1.

Click

2. In the trend window, click one corner of the area that you wish to enlarge.
3. Hold down your left mouse button and drag the area you want to enlarge until it reaches
the desired size. If the highlighted area contains at least two measured values, the selected
trend area is displayed in the trend window.

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4. Release the left mouse button. The selected segment is magnified. If you want to increase
the size further, repeat the process.
5.

Click

. The trend window is shown in the originally configured view again.

How to zoom in and zoom out of the trends

1.

Click

2. Click in the trend window with the left mouse button to zoom in on the trends in the trend
window. If you want to increase the size further, repeat the process.
3. If you want to zoom out of the trends, press the "Shift" button while clicking with the left
mouse button.
4. While zooming in or zooming out with trends, the 50% value of the trends is always in the
middle of the value axes.
5.

Click

. The trend window is shown in the original view again.

Note
If you change the value area on the "X Axes" or "Y Axes" tab in the configuration dialog
while zooming, the visible zoom area is set to the new value area.

How to zoom the X axis and the Y axis

1.

to zoom the X axis or on

Click on

to zoom the Y axis.

2. Click in the trend window with the left mouse button to zoom in on the X axis or Y axis. If
you want to increase the size further, repeat the process.
3. If you want to zoom out of the X axis or Y axis, press the "Shift" button while clicking with
the left mouse button.
4. While zooming with axes, the 50% value of the trend is always in the middle of the axes.
5.

Click

. The trend window is shown in the original view again.

How to move the trend area

1.

Click

2. While holding the left mouse button down, move the cursor in the desired direction in the
trend window. The displayed area in the trend window is adapted on the X axis and on the
Y axis.
3.

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If you click on

again, the trend window is shown in the original view again.

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6.5.3

Process value output in reports

6.5.3.1

Process value output in reports

Introduction
You have the option to output process values in the form of a report. At the end of each shift,
you can for example load the achieved production figures from the process value archive and
print them out in report format. You create reports in the Report Designer.

Report Designer:
The Report Designer contains a number of preset layout templates that you can change to
suit your needs. The Report Designer is also used to create print jobs to initiate the output.

For the output of process values in report format, you can make use of many preset layout
templates.
Layouts on the basis of WinCC Controls as of WinCC V7
Use the new layouts that are based on the "WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider" layout
templates in WinCC V7 or higher. The output of the report object depends on the layout of the
control in Runtime.

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@Online Table Control - Picture.RPL and @Online Table Control - Table.RPL: Process
value output on the basis of WinCC Online Table Control.
@Online Trend Control - Picture.RPL: Process value output on the basis of WinCC
OnlineTrendControl.
@Function Trend Control - Picture.RPL: Process value output on the basis of WinCC
FunctionTrendControl.
Layouts on the basis of WinCC Controls prior to WinCC V7
You have detailed parameterization options in the following layouts. You can configure many
setting options of the tabs and the dynamizable parameters of the WinCC Controls prior to
WinCC V7.
@CCOnlineTableCtrl-CP.RPL: Process value output on the basis of WinCC Online Table
Control.
@CCOnlineTrendCtrl-Curves-CP.RPL: Process value output on the basis of WinCC Online
Trend Control.
@CCFunctionTrendCtrl-CP.RPL Process value output on the basis of WinCC Function
Trend Control.

Basic procedure
The configuration procedure for reports consists of the following steps:
1. Selection of process data and adjustment layout: Select the process data that will be
displayed in the report. If necessary, modify the report layout.
2. Configuring the Print Job Configure the print output of the report by defining the time period,
the number of pages and the output medium.

See also
Output of Process Values (Page1184)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1635)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1638)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1640)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1643)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1645)
Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1647)
Introduction to Runtime Documentation (Page1469)
How to create print jobs for the Runtime documentation (Page1474)

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6.5.4

Process value output before WinCC V7

6.5.4.1

Process value output in process pictures before WinCC V7

Introduction
You have the option to output archived and current process values in Runtime. For this, WinCC
provides two ActiveX Control that can be inserted into a process picture, which consists of a
table or trend window.

Process Value Output in Tables

To output process values in table format in Runtime, use the WinCC Online Table Control.
You can display the archive tags:

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Process Value Output as Trends

To output process values in trend format in Runtime, use the WinCC Online Trend Control.
You can then fill the table with archived or process tags:

Use the WinCC Online Trend Control to display process trends, etc. You also have the option
to show more than one trends in a window, and to highlight areas that are outside the limit
range in a different color.

6.5.4.2

Before WinCC V7: Process Value Output in Table Format

Resources
WinCC Online Trend Control
Introduction
In order to process data in table form, WinCC uses Online Table Control to offer the option of
displaying process data in a table. You have the option to display either current or archived
values.
Display of tag values during Runtime takes place in ActiveX Control, inserted and configured
in a picture in Graphics Designer. In order to facilitate access to the tags to be displayed,
process value archives and the tags contained therein must be configured in Tag Logging.

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Requirement
The following prerequisites apply to the display of trends in WinCC Online Table Control:
Only archive tags can be used for tables.
Each table can contain maximum 30,000 values.
Archive tags in a table must originate from the same process value archive of a server,
must have the same update cycle, and must be recorded in a continuous cycle.

Representation Formats
Introduction
Two basic display types are available for displaying tag values in tabular format.

Shared time column

In this display type, the table contains only one time column. This column displays the archived
times of the tag output in the first column. A table to display the values of three tags will therefore
consist of four columns in Runtime.
Note
The display of tags with different acquisition times in a table with a shared time column is
problematic, since the tag values might not correspond to the indicated archived times of the
time column. These values are displayed as crossed out.

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Separate time columns

In this display type, the archived times of each tag are displayed in separate columns. A table
to display the values of three tags will therefore consist of six columns in Runtime.

Configuration
The table display type to be used is specified on the "General" tab of the "Properties of WinCC
Online Table Control" dialog.

See also
Time Range of a Table Display (Page1319)

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Time Range of a Table Display

Introduction
With respect to time ranges to be displayed, the table display of tags can be shown in various
ways:

Static Display
In a static display the archived tag values are shown for a defined time period.

In the "Column" tab of the "WinCC Online Table Controls" property dialog, the static display
type is configured by deactivating the "Update" option. The time range to be displayed is set
either
by entering a start time and a time range.
by entering a start time and an end time.

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Dynamic Display
In a dynamic display the end time in a table always corresponds to the current system time.
New measurement values coming in will be included in the display.

In the "Column" tab of the property dialog of "WinCC Online Table Controls" the dynamic
display type is configured by activating the "Update" option. The time range to be displayed is
set either
by entering a time range.
by the time difference between the specified start and end times.

Note
Upon starting Runtime the tag values to be displayed are either read from the archive or are
set to zero. This function is set in the "General" tab of the "Properties" dialog.

See also
Representation Formats (Page1317)

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Configuration
Configuration of WinCC Online Table Control
Introduction
In order to display process values in Runtime using WinCC Table Control, you must execute
the following steps:

In Tag Logging
1. Use the Archive Wizard to create a process value archive.
2. Configure the process value tags it will contain.

In Graphics Designer
1. Link the WinCC Table Control to a Graphics Designer picture.
2. Link the columns to be displayed in Table Control to the tags of the process value archive.
Note
The table window can be influenced by means of standard functions. If you do not wish to
use the toolbar functions to operate the table window, any Graphics Designer objects can be
made dynamic using the appropriate functions.

See also
How to Create a Process Value Archive (Page1322)
How to Insert the Online Table Control in a Picture (Page1321)

How to Insert the Online Table Control in a Picture

Introduction
Tags are displayed in runtime in an ActiveX Control, which is inserted in a picture and
configured with the aid of the Graphics Designer.

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Procedure
1. Start Graphics Designer and open a new picture.
2. Click the "WinCC Online Table Control" object on the "Controls" tab in the object palette.

3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the control to the desired size.
The "Insert a Control" dialog is opened.
5. Select the WinCC Online Table Control and confirm your selection by clicking "OK".
The "Properties of WinCC Online Table Control" quick configuration dialog box opens.
6. Configure the table properties according to your specifications.
7. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.

See also
How to Display Process Value Tags (Page1323)

How to Create a Process Value Archive

Introduction
In order to display tags in a WinCC Online Table Control, you must configure a process value
archive. A process value archive is created most easily with the help of the Archive wizard.

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Procedure
1. Start Tag Logging and select the "Archive Wizard ...". command in the archive pop-up menu.

2. In the second step of the Archive Wizard, assign a meaningful name to the process value
archive.
3. In the third step of the Archive Wizard, include the desired tags in the process value archive.
4. Close the Wizard by clicking "Apply".
Note
Provided that the process tags contained in an archive were not defined within the Archive
Wizard, new tags can be added by using the pop-up menu of a process value archive.

See also
Configuration of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1321)

How to Display Process Value Tags

Requirement
Configure tags of data type "Signed 16-bit value".
Create a process value archive using the configured tags as process value tags.
Insert the Online Table Control in a picture of Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Open a picture in Graphics Designer using Online Table Control.
2. Double-click the Online Table Control.

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3. Click the "Columns" tab.

4. In the "Archive/Tag Selection" section, use the "Selection" button to select the process
value tag for the selected column.

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5. Click the "General" tab.

6. Define the behavior of the control in Runtime.

7. Configure additional properties using the "Control" tabs.
8. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.
9. Save the picture.

See also
How to Insert the Online Table Control in a Picture (Page1321)
How to Create a Process Value Archive (Page1322)

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Operation in Runtime
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime
Introduction
In Runtime, the table window is operated by means of the toolbar buttons.
"Online Help System"
Calls up the online help
"Open the Configuration Dialog"
Select dialog to assign display parameters.
"First Data Record"
The table displays the tag values within a specified time range, beginning with
the first archived value.
"Previous Data Record"
The table displays the tag values within the previous time interval, based on
the currently displayed time interval.
"Next Data Record"

The table displays the tag values within the next time interval, based on the
currently displayed time interval.
"Last Data Record"

The table displays the tag values within the specified time interval, ending
with the last archived value.
"Edit"
Upon activating this button, you can double-click any table cell to edit its
contents This will stop the updated display.
"Dialog for Archive and Tag Selection"

This button will open the dialog for archive and tag selection.
"Dialog for Selecting Columns"
This button will open the dialog for toggling visible and invisible column view.
"Select Time Range"

This button will open the dialog to specify the time range displayed in a table
window.
"Previous Column to Front"

This button allows you to display the current last column of the table window
as the first data column of the table. In a joint selection the corresponding
archived times are displayed in the time column. In a joint selection the
corresponding archived times are displayed in the time column

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"Next Column to Front"

This button allows you to display the current last column of the table window
as the first data column of the table. In a joint selection the corresponding
archived times are displayed in the time column. In a joint selection the
corresponding archived times are displayed in the time column
"Start/Stop the Update"
The updating for the display is stopped. The values are stored in interim
memory and resupplied after reactivating the button.
"Start/Stop the Update"
Resume display.
"Print Log"
Initiates printing of columns displayed in table window. Print job used during
printing can be specified in the control properties on the "General" tab.
"Select Statistics Area"
Enables mouse-based specification of time frame for calculation of statistics
in table window.
"Calculate Statistics"
Opens a statistics window to display minimum, maximum, average and
standard deviation for a specified time frame and a specified column.

See also
Starting and Stopping Update (Page1332)
How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data (Page1335)
Display Column in Front (Page1332)
How to Edit a Table Cell in Runtime (Page1333)
Online Configuration for Online Table Control (Page1327)

Online Configuration for Online Table Control

Introduction
In order to change the configuration of Online Table Control in Runtime, you have four options
available.

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Key function "Open the Parameter Dialog"

The key function "Open Set Configuration Dialog"
for table display.

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Key function "Dialog for Archive and Tag Selection"

The key function "Dialog for Archive and Tag Selection"
tags linked to the columns of a table window.

allows for the specification of the

Array

Description

Column

Here, you can select one of the configured columns.

Selectio
n

Using the "Selection" button, you open the dialog to select an archive and the tags contained
therein.

Persiste
nce

If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is not activated, any changes made to the settings
are only effective within Runtime. Whether or not any changed settings remain effective
after a picture change depends on the "Persistence in RT" option.
If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is activated, any changed settings are also
transferred to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in Graphics
Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when the project is
reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with PCS
7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the changed settings
on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

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Key Function "Dialog for Selecting Trends"

The key function "Dialog for Selecting Columns"
visible and invisible columns.

opens the dialog for toggling between

Array

Description

Column to
Front

If a shared time column is used, the archived timers of the first column of the table will
be displayed. The first column can be changed either in this dialog or by using the
"Previous column in the front" and "Next column in the front" buttons in the toolbar.

Column
visible/
invisible

In this area, you can specify which configured columns are not to be shown.

Persistence

If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is not activated, any changes made to the
settings are only effective within Runtime. Whether or not any changed settings remain
effective after a picture change depends on the "Persistence in RT" option.
If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is activated, any changed settings are also
transferred to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in
Graphics Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when
the project is reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with
PCS 7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the
changed settings on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

Note
The first column of a table window cannot take the "invisible" attribute.

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Key Function "Select Time Range"

opens a dialog to specify the time range to be
The key function "Select Time Range"
displayed. If the columns of a table window are to be displayed with a common time axis, the
specified time range applies to all columns.

Array

Description

Column

Here, you can select one of the configured columns.

Time
Selection

The time interval to be displayed in the table window can be set

by entering a start and an end point (the "Time Range" setting not activated).
by entering a start time and a time range. ("Time Range" setting activated). The length
of the time interval to be displayed is determined by multiplying the "Factor" by the
"Range".

Persistenc
e

If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is not activated, any changes made to the settings
are only effective within Runtime. Whether or not any changed settings remain effective
after a picture change depends on the "Persistence in RT" option.
If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is activated, any changed settings are also
transferred to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in Graphics
Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when the project
is reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with
PCS 7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the changed
settings on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

The entry format of the date and time depends on the Runtime language used.

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Note
The WinCC Online Table Control cannot display more than 1000 values within a selected
time range. This has to be taken into account when setting the time range.

See also
Configuration of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1321)
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime (Page1326)

Starting and Stopping Update

Introduction
With the key function "Start/Stop Update", you can stop or continue the updates of the columns
contained in the table window. When updates are stopped, you can change the displayed time
frame and therefore display measurement values from the process value archive in the table
window.
When updates are stopped, you can change the displayed time frame and therefore display
measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.

: When updates are stopped, you can change the displayed time frame and therefore
display measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.
: When updates are started, you can change the displayed time frame and therefore
display measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.

See also
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime (Page1326)

Display Column in Front

Introduction
If a shared time column is used, the archived times of the first column of the table will be
displayed in the time column.
The sequence of columns in the table window can be changed in Runtime:

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using the

button (key function "Dialog for Column Selection")

using the

button: (key function "Next Column to Front")

using the

button: (key function "Previous Column to Front")

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Configuration
The sequence of columns is configured on the "Column" tab of the "Properties of WinCC Online
Table Control" dialog. It can be changed via the "Up" and "Down" buttons.

See also
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime (Page1326)

How to Edit a Table Cell in Runtime

Introduction
With the key function "Edit" you have the option of manually inserting laboratory or correction
values into a process value archive.

Requirement
Configuration of Online Table Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar by using the "Edit" key function.
Start Runtime.

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Procedure
, the table display is halted. Double-click any cell in the table
By clicking the "Edit" button
to change the content of that cell. Values that occur during the edit process are archived.
Note
Values occurring during the edit process can be viewed in the static display. The static display
is configured on the "Column" tab of the "Properties" dialog by deactivating the "Update"
option.
If the time stamp for a joint selection is changed by editing, the new value will only be written
in the first column of the database. The time stamp for the other columns will remain
unchanged.
Return to the table display in Runtime mode by clicking the "Edit" button again.

See also
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime (Page1326)

Display of Archived Values

Introduction
The buttons in the toolbar of a table window and the respective keyboard shortcuts allow you
to "page" through the archive.
In the table window, the values archived for a tag will be displayed within a time interval. The
width of this interval is determined by the time range to be displayed or results from the time
difference of entered start and end times.

Buttons for Archived Values

The table displays the tag values within a specified time range, beginning with
the first archived value.
The table displays the tag values within the previous time interval, based on the
currently displayed time interval.
The table displays the tag values within the next time interval, based on the
currently displayed time interval.
The table displays the tag values within the specified time interval, ending with
the last archived value.
Note
The WinCC Online Table Control cannot display more than 1000 values within a selected
time range.

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See also
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime (Page1326)
Online Configuration for Online Table Control (Page1327)
Configuration of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1321)

How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data

Introduction
You can generate a statistical evaluation of Runtime process data in the table window. The
following results are displayed in a statistics window for all selected columns and a specified
time frame:
Minimum
Maximum
Average
Standard deviation

Requirement
Configuration of Online Table Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar by using the key functions "Select statistics area",
"Calculate statistics" and "Start/stop update". If you wish to calculate statistics for all values
of a table, you do not need the key function "Select statistics area".
Configure the display by using the key function "Select time range" if you wish to choose
a statistics area outside of the time range displayed in the columns.
You can specify the font for the table that is displayed with the key function "Calculate
statistics" in the "Font" tab and via the property "StatisticsFont".
Start Runtime.

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Procedure
1. In the toolbar, click the

button. If you wish to calculate statistics for all table values,

click
.
The updated display is stopped, while process data archiving is continued.
2. In order to specify the time period for the calculation, use the mouse to select the table lines
for the desired time frame. For different columns with different time frames you can select
different time ranges for the calculation of statistics.

3.

In the toolbar, click the

button.

4. The "Statistics" window opens with results of the calculation for the specified time frame of
one column.

5. If you wish to display the results of additional table columns, select the appropriate column
in the "Column" field.
6. In order to continue with the display of Runtime data in the table, close the statistics window
and click the

button in the toolbar.

7. If you require a statistical analysis of process data not displayed in the table window, click
the
button. Enter the desired time frame in the "Select time range" dialog. The process
data will be displayed for the specified time frame, and statistics can be calculated.
Note
For additional statistical analysis of process data and archiving of results you must write the
scripts yourself.

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See also
Operation of Online Table Control in Runtime (Page1326)
Online Configuration for Online Table Control (Page1327)
Configuration of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1321)

6.5.4.3

Before WinCC V7: Process Value Output in the Form of Trends in Process Pictures

Resources
WinCC Online Trend Control
Introduction
In order to process data in graphic form, WinCC uses Online Trend Control to offer the option
of displaying process data as a trend. The trend type to be used can be selected. Furthermore
you have the option of displaying current or archived values.
Display of tag values during Runtime takes place in ActiveX Control, inserted and configured
in a picture in Graphics Designer.

Requirement
The following requirements apply to the display of trends in WinCC Online Trend Control:
In a WinCC Online Trend Control any number of trends can be displayed. However, it is
recommended to configure no more than 8 trends.
A trend can represent a maximum of 30000 value pairs. Depending on the screen resolution
and the settings, the display might however vary.
The trends can be based on online tags or archived tags.
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Online tags of a trend must have the identical update cycle.
In order to display tags as a function of other tags, you should use the WinCC Function
Trend Control.

Resolution of Trend Display

The number of trend values that can be displayed on the screen is limited by the screen
resolution and selected size of the trend window. Therefore, when displaying trends, it is
possible that fewer values are displayed in the trend window than are actually archived.
If, for example, in an area of 100 pixels 200 measured values are archived, each pixel
represents 2 measured values. The value shown on the screen is that of the most recent data
(most recent time stamp).

Representation Trend Lines

Representation Trend Lines
Introduction
WinCC Online Trend Control has a multitude of options to display a trend.

See also
Representation of Staggered Trends (Page1342)
Identification of Time Jumps and Time Overlaps (Page1346)
Time Range of Trend Display (Page1343)
Write direction (Page1343)
Representation Using Common Axes (Page1340)
Representation formats (Page1339)

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Representation formats
Introduction
Three basic trend format are available for the graphic display of tag values.

Single Values
Value of measurement points are shown as dots.

Linear Interpolation
The trend line is interpolated on a linear basis from values of measurement points. The trend
is represented as either a solid line or a dashed line. The area under the curve can also be
displayed in a solid color.

Stepped trend
The trend line is interpolated as a stepped curve from the values of measurement points. The
trend is represented as either a solid line or a dashed line. The area under the curve can also
be displayed in a solid color.

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Configuration
You configure the trends in the Graphics Designer in the Properties dialog on WinCC Online
Trend Control in the Trends tab.

See also
Representation Trend Lines (Page1338)

Representation Using Common Axes

Introduction
If multiple trends are to be displayed in a trend window, you have the choice of using individual
axes for each trend or using shared X/Y axes for all trends.

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Representation Using Different Axes

If the tag values to be displayed in a tag window differ greatly, the use of shared axes for the
trend display is not recommended. The tag values can be read more easily if different axial
scales are used. You can singly display the Y-axis for the trend in the foreground.

Representation Using Common Axes

If comparison of trend characteristics is important, it is recommended to display trends with
common axes. You can assign a color for the common X-axis.
You can determine the exact tag values Runtime through zoom or coordinate inquiry.

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Configuration
You configure the display options of the axes in the Graphics Designer in the Properties dialog
on WinCC Online Trend Control in the General tab.
Note
When configuring an Online Trend Control, only tags with an identical updating cycle should
be displayed in a trend window in the case of several trends with a common time axis. In the
case of tags with different updating cycles, the length of the time axis is not identical for all
tags. Since the tag trends are updated at different times due to the different updating cycles,
a minimal different in the end time for the time axis occurs on each change. As a result, the
trends displayed skip slightly to and fro on each change.

See also
Representation Trend Lines (Page1338)

Representation of Staggered Trends

Introduction
In a staggered display, the trends are displayed offset over each other in the trend window.
For each trend, the value range to be displayed can be set for the Y axis.

Configuration
You configure the display of the staggered curves in the Graphics Designer in the Properties
dialog on WinCC Online Trend Control in the General tab.

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See also
Representation Trend Lines (Page1338)

Write direction
Introduction
With the "Write Direction" option, you can specify where the current measurement values are
to be displayed. Setting "From the bottom" means that the current measurement values are
processed from downward.
If you select for the write direction the "From the top" or "From the bottom" setting, you must
use a True-Type font for the best display of the time axes labels in the trend window.

Configuration
You configure the write direction of the data in the Graphics Designer in the Properties dialog
on WinCC Online Trend Control in the General tab.

See also
Representation Trend Lines (Page1338)

Time Range of Trend Display

Introduction
With regard to the time ranges to be displayed, there are a number of ways to present a trend
display of tags:

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Static Representation of a Trend

Static representation presents the course of a tag within a defined time interval, based on the
archived values.

The static display is configured on the "Time Axis" tab of the "Properties" dialog by deactivating
the "Update" option. The time range to be displayed is set either
by entering a start time and a time range.
by entering a start time and an end time.
by entering a start time and the number of measurement points to be displayed.

Note
This type of display can only be used for archive tags.

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Dynamic Representation of a Trend

In a dynamic display, the end time of a trend always corresponds to the current system time.
New measurement values coming in are included in the display.

The static display is configured on the "Time Axis" tab of the "Properties" dialog by deactivating
the "Update" option. The time range to be displayed is set either
by entering a time range.
by entering the number of measurement points to be displayed.
by the time difference between the specified start and end times.

Note
Upon opening the trend window in Runtime, the tag values to be displayed are either read
from the archive or are set to zero. This function is set in the "General" tab of the "Properties"
dialog.

See also
How to Dynamize a Time Range in a Sript (Page1352)
Representation Trend Lines (Page1338)

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Identification of Time Jumps and Time Overlaps

Introduction
By changing the time, e.g. by switching from daylight saving to standard time or vice versa,
time jumps or time overlaps may occur in the archive.
In a trend display of archived values, the time axis labeling is modified and marked with a
vertical line in the presence of time gaps or time overlaps.

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Configuration
On the "Limit Values" tab of the "Properties of WinCC Online Trend Control" dialog, the marker
line can be assigned a color.

See also
Representation Trend Lines (Page1338)

Configuration
Configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control
Introduction
The steps necessary for configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control depend on the tags you
wish to display.

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Display of Online Tags

1. The tags you wish to display need to be configured in WinCC Explorer.
2. Link WinCC Online Trend Control to a picture in Graphics Designer and modify the
properties of ActiveX Control.

Display of Archive Tags

1. The tags you wish to display need to be configured in WinCC Explorer.
2. Use the Archive Wizard to create a process value archive.
3. Configure the process value tags it is to contain.
4. Link WinCC Online Trend Control to a picture in Graphics Designer and modify the
properties of ActiveX Control.

See also
How to Insert an Online Trend Control in a Picture (Page1348)
How to Configure Trends in Online Trend Control (Page1350)
How to Dynamize a Time Range in a Sript (Page1352)
How to Activate the Example for Online Trend Control (Page1355)

How to Insert an Online Trend Control in a Picture

Introduction
The trends are displayed during Runtim in an ActiveX Control that you can configure in
Graphics Designer.

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Procedure
1. Start Graphics Designer and open a new picture.
2. Click the "WinCC Online Trend Control" object on the "Controls" tab in the object palette.

3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the control to the desired size.
The "Properties of WinCC WinCC Online Trend Control" quick configuration dialog is
opened.

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5. Configure the properties of WinCC Online Trend Control in the General tab.

6. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.

See also
How to Configure Trends in Online Trend Control (Page1350)

How to Configure Trends in Online Trend Control

Introduction
Define the trend properties in the tabs of the WinCC Online Trend Control configuration dialog.

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Requirement
You have inserted the tags for data supply to the trends in Tag Management.
You have configured the process value archive while supplying archive tags as data.
You have inserted WinCC Online Trend Control in a picture in Graphics Designer and
defined the properties of Control.

Procedure
1. Double-click WinCC Online Trend Control.
2. Click the "Curves" tab.

3. Use "+" key to define the desired number of trends.

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4. Define the sequence of trends in control using "Up" and "Down" keys.
5. Select in the Trends section: one trend to define the trend properties and data supply.
6. In the "Archive/ Tag selection" define the data supply to the trend. In the "Data supply" field,
define whether the data is to be provided online or from an archive. Select the corresponding
tag via the "Selection" button.
7. Specify the display type and line weight of the trend.
8. Configure additional properties of the trend on the WinCC Online Trend Control tab.
In the Time Axis tab, you can define the time range for accessing the archived values.
In the Value Axis tab define the value range properties, for e.g. scaling.
9. Close the dialog with the "OK" button. Configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control is
saved.

See also
How to Configure the Value Range of Trends (Page1353)

How to Dynamize a Time Range in a Sript

Introduction
With WinCC Online Graph Control, the properties for "EndTime" and "BeginTime" can be
dynamically configured using a C script.
In the example, the values for EndTime and BeginTime are defined in two I/O fields. The entry
is of the following format: "dd.mm.yyyy hh.mm.ss" e.g. 04.09.2002 10:20:00.
The time range in WinCC Online Trend Control is updated using a C script. The C script is
triggered by clicking the button control. To update the time range, the C script deactivates and
reactivates the WinCC Online Trend Control.

Procedure
1. In Tag Management, configure the tags "strVar_1" and "strVar_2" of data type "text tag 8bit value" and the tag "TagLog" of data type"unsigned 16-bit value".
2. Start Tag Logging and create a process value archive by using the Archive Wizard and
configure the process value tag contained therein.
3. Start Graphics Designer and open a picture. Insert a WinCC Online Trend Control into the
picture and link it to the process value tag.
4. Insert two I/O fields into the picture and link it to the tags "strVar_1" and "strVar_2",
respectively. In object properties "Output/Input" of the I/O fields, enter "String" as data
format and "*" as output format.
5. Insert a button into the picture and save the picture as NewPDL0.PDL.
6. Open the "Object Properties" dialog of the button and click the "Event" tab.
7. In the left pane, select "Mouse click" as the trigger of the event.

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8. Right-click the "Mouse click" event and select the "C Action..." command from the pop-up
menu.
9. The StartTime and EndTime properties are dynamized with the following script. Copy this
script into the edit field of the "Edit Action" dialog and click "OK".
//Set index for Trend1
SetPropWord("NewPdl0.Pdl","Control1","Index",0); //return type :BOOL
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","Online",FALSE);
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","TimeRange",FALSE);
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","Activate",FALSE);
//Sets BeginTime Parameter: dd.mm.yyyy hh:mm:ss
SetPropChar("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","BeginTime",GetTagChar("strVar_1"));
//Sets EndTime Parameter: dd.mm.yyyy hh:mm:ss
SetPropChar("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","EndTime",GetTagChar("strVar_2"));
//Set Index for Trend2
SetPropWord("NewPdl0.Pdl","Control1","Index",1); //return type :BOOL
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","Online",FALSE);
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","TimeRange",FALSE);
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","Activate",FALSE);
//Sets BeginTime Parameter: dd.mm.yyyy hh:mm:ss
SetPropChar("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","BeginTime",GetTagChar("strVar_1"));
//Sets EndTime Parameter: dd.mm.yyyy hh:mm:ss
SetPropChar("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","EndTime",GetTagChar("strVar_2"));
//Activate BeginTime and EndTime at Trend Control
SetPropBOOL("NewPdl0.PDL","Control1","Activate",TRUE);
10.Save the picture and start Runtime.
11.In the I/O fields, enter the values for "EndTime" and "StartTime" in format "dd.mm.yyyy
hh.mm.ss". Confirm each entry with "Enter".
12.By clicking the button, the time range is updated in WinCC Online Trend Control.

See also
How to Activate the Example for Online Trend Control (Page1355)
Time Range of Trend Display (Page1343)

How to Configure the Value Range of Trends

Introduction
For each trend, you can customize the value range and the scaling for the trend display in the
Value Axis tab of the Configuration Dialog of WinCC Online Trend Control.
When you have inserted a trend, the value range and the scaling to be displayed is preconfigured as follows:
The value range is automatically based on the minimum and maximum value of the selected
curve. If you use a common value axis, the minimum and maximum values of all trends of
the trend window are dtermined.
The value axis scale is linear to the value range.

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Requirement
You have inserted the trends and configured the data supply.

Procedure
1. Click the configuration dialog of WinCC Online Trend Control on the Value Axis tab.

1. In Trend: select the trend whose value axis you want to change.
2. In the Range Selection, deactivate the Automatic option button if you want to define a fixed
value range and a separate scaling of the value axis.
3. In the "From:" and "To:" input fields enter the minimum and maximum value of the value
range.

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4. For configuring the scaling, activate the User Scaling option button. Click "..." to define a
scaling for the selected value range.
5. You must define segments without gaps for the entire value range and assign areas on the
value axis. If you have defined a value range, say "0 - 100000" you can divide this value
range into three sections that you can display as follows on the value axis:

For e.g. value range "0 - 50000" is displayed during Runtime on the value axis in the "100 500" range if the User Scaling option box is activated.

How to Activate the Example for Online Trend Control

Requirement
Before activating the WinCC Online Trend Control example, you must complete the following
steps:
Save the picture configure by you.
Use the pop-up menu in the WinCC Explorer to select the stored picture as the start picture.

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Check whether "Graphics Runtime" and "Tag Logging Runtime" are selected in the startup
list of WinCC Explorer ("Computer Properties" dialog).

Procedure
You have several options to start Runtime:
From the toolbar of the WinCC Explorer
From the menu bar of the WinCC Explorer
During configuration you can call individual pictures in Runtime:
From the toolbar of the Graphics Designer
From the menu bar of the Graphics Designer

How to apply the configuration of trend parameters from PCS 7

Introduction
In PCS 7, you can use the SIMATIC Manager to configure the properties of tags that have an
effect on the display in Trend Controls. The specified parameters can be transferred to WinCC
Online Trend Control.

Automatic configuration of trend parameters from PCS 7 data

In WinCC Online Trend Control, the properties for tags planned in PCS 7 are applied as trend
parameters. The following parameters are configured automatically:
The low limit of the trend range
The high limit of the trend range
The units of measurement for the trend

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In runtime, the tag values are shown as a trend within these limits. The unit of measurement
is shown on the "Y axis".

Procedure
1. Add a new trend in WinCC Online Trend Control.
2. Select an archive tag or online tag that has already been configured in PCS 7. If the
properties indicated above are configured for these tags, the following parameters are
configured in the "Value Axis" tab:
The "Label" field contains the unit of measurement for the tag. You can change the label.
In the "Range selection" area, the "Apply the properties of the tag display" option is
activated and the "Automatic" option is deactivated.
The tag names for the high limit and the low limit of the variables are entered in the fields
"From" and "To" in the "Range selection" area. These limits cannot be changed.
The "User Scaling" option is deactivated in the "Scaling" area.
3. If you want to change the limits for the trend range and configure a user scale, deactivate
the "Apply tag properties" option.

Operation in Runtime
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime
Introduction
The trend window is operated in runtime via the buttons in the toolbar.

Overview
"Online-Help-System"
Opening the online help
"Open the Configuration Dialog"
Selecting the dialog to assign display parameters.
"First Data Record"
Click this button to display the tag trend in the trend window, starting with the first
archived tag.
"Previous Data Record"
Click this button to display the tag trend of the previous time interval in the trend
window, based on the currently displayed time interval.
"Next Data Record"

Click this button to display the tag trend of the next time interval in the trend window,
based on the currently displayed time interval.

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"Online-Help-System"
Opening the online help
"Last Data Record"

Click this button to display the tag trend ending with the last archived value in the
trend window, based on the currently selected time interval.
"Display Value at this Position"
Click this button to query the coordinate points of a trend.
"Zoom Area"
Click this button to zoom in on any section of the trend window.
"Activate Original View"
Click this button to return to the configured normal view (after zooming).
"Dialog for Archive and Tag Selection"

This button opens the dialog for archive and tag selection.
"Dialog for Trend Selection"
Click this button to open the dialog for the selection of visible and invisible trends.
"Select Time Range"

Click this button to open the dialog where you can specify the time range to be
displayed in a trend window.
"Previous trend in foreground"

Click this button to display the previous trend in the foreground of the trend window.
"Next trend in the front"

Click this button to display the next trend in the foreground of the trend window.
"Start/Stop update"
The updated display is stopped. The values are buffered and updated when the
button is clicked again.
"Start/Stop update"
Resume display.
"Print Log"
Click this button to print the trend shown in the trend window. Print job used during
printing can be specified in the control properties on the "General" tab.
"Select Statistics Area"
Click this button to define the time period for the calculation of statistics in trend
window using vertical lines.
"Calculate Statistics"
Click this button to open the statistics window where the minimum, maximum,
average and standard deviation for a specified time frame and trend are shown.

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"Online-Help-System"
Opening the online help
"Save report"
Saves the current data of the control for the displayed trends in the time frame
indicated. The updated display must be stopped.
The report will be saved as a ".csv" file in the WinCC project directory under "Export/
TagLogging". The file name consists of window title of Control and the
timestamp.
If you import the file into MS Excel, the local language settings are used. The "List
separator" and the "Comma sign" can then lead to an incorrect display. In order to
ensure a correct display, give the ".csv" file the extension "*. txt". You then have
the ability to select the "List separator" and the "Comma sign" manually during the
import.
"Zoom out"
Decreases the zoom factor.
"Zoom in"
Increases the zoom factor.
"Relative scale"
Switches from displaying the absolute values to the percentage display of value
axis. The high and low limits for the trend correspond with a range of 0 to 100%.
The following requirements apply to the "Relative scale" keyboard function:
All trends displayed are assigned a fixed value range.
The trends have no user scaling.
The trends are scaled linearly.
Right-click trend

When the update is stopped, right-click the trend to display the archive name, the
tag name and the coordinates of the respective point.

Note
Click the "Display value at this position" button in the toolbar to display the coordinate points
of a trend. The displayed tag values can be assigned an additional attribute in the form of a
letter. Where:
Letter "i" : The displayed tag value is interpolated.
Letter "u" : The displayed value is of uncertain status. This attribute is displayed when the
initial value is not known after Runtime has been activated, or when a substitute value is
used.

The "Page" buttons in archives are only available, if the trend to be displayed originates in a
process value archive.

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See also
How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data (Page1371)
Starting and Stopping Update (Page1365)
Trend to Front (Page1365)
How To Enlarge a Segment of a Trend (Page1369)
How to Determine the Coordinates of a Point (Page1367)
Online Configuration of Online Trend Control (Page1360)

Online Configuration of Online Trend Control

Introduction
There are four options available to change the configuration of the Online Table Control in
Runtime:

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Key function "Open the Parameter Dialog"

The "Open Set Configuration Dialog"
for trend display.

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Key function "Dialog for Archive and Tag Selection"

The "Dialog for Archive and Tag Selection"
tags linked to the trends in a trend window.

key function allows for the specification of the

Array

Description

Trend

Select a configured trend.

Selectio
n

Use the Selection button to open the dialog for selecting the linked tags.

Persiste
nce

If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is not activated, any changes made to the settings
are only effective within Runtime. Whether or not any changed settings remain effective
after a picture change depends on the "Persistence in RT" option.
If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is activated, all changed settings are also
transferred to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in Graphics
Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when the project is
reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with PCS
7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the changed settings
on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

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Key Function "Dialog for Selecting Trends"

The "Dialog for Trend Selection"
and invisible trends.

key function opens the dialog for the selection of visible

Array

Description

Trend in the
foreground

If a common axis is used, the settings for the display of the first trend are applied for
the display of the axis. You can configure a uniform color for the common X-axis. The
first trend can be changed either in this dialog or by using the "Previous trend in
foreground" and "Next trend in the front" buttons in the toolbar.

Trend visible/ In this area, you can specify the trends that are not to be shown.
invisible:
Persistence

If the "Persistent in RT and CS" option is not activated, any changes made to the
settings are only effective within Runtime. Whether or not any changed settings remain
effective after a picture change depends on the "Persistence in RT" option.
If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is activated, all changed settings are also
transferred to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in
Graphics Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when
the project is reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with
PCS 7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the
changed settings on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

Note
The first trend in a trend window cannot be made "invisible".

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Key Function "Select Time Range"

opens a dialog to specify the time range to be
The key function "Select Time Range"
displayed. If the trends in the trend window are to be displayed with a common time axis, the
specified time range applies to all trends.

Array

Description

Trend

Select a configured trend.

Time
Selection

The time interval to be displayed in the trend window can be set

by entering a start and an end point (the "Time Range" setting not activated).
by entering a start time and a time range. ("Time Range" setting activated). The length of
the time interval to be displayed is determined by multiplying the "Factor" by the "Range".

Persistenc
e

If the "Persistent in RT and CS" option is not activated, any changes made to the settings
are only effective within Runtime. Whether or not any changed settings remain effective
after a picture change depends on the "Persistence in RT" option.
If the "Persistence in RT and CS" option is activated, all changed settings are also
transferred to the configuration system. To do this, you must open the picture in Graphics
Designer and save it once again. The changed settings are also used when the project
is reactivated.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with
PCS 7 projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the changed
settings on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

The entry format of the date and time depends on the Runtime language used.

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See also
Configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1347)
How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data (Page1371)
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)

Starting and Stopping Update

Introduction
The update of the trend window can be started and stopped with the "Start/Stop" key function.
If updating has stopped, you can:
change the displayed time range and thus display the measured values from the process
value archive in the trend window.
save the data of the displayed trends for the displayed time range in a report.
Certain functions, such as the "Zoom Area" keyboard function automatically stop the update
of value of measurement points.
You will recognize the status of the update by the appearance of the button.

: When updates are stopped, you may change the displayed time frame and therefore
display measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.
: When updates are started, you may change the displayed time frame and therefore
display measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.

See also
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)

Trend to Front
Introduction
You can modify the trend displayed on top in runtime:
by clicking the

button ("Dialog for Trend Selection" key function)

by clicking the

button: ("Next trend to Front" key function)

by clicking the

button: ("Previous Trend to Front")

If common axes are used, the settings for the trend displayed in the foreground are used for
displaying the axes. You can however configure a uniform color for the common X-axis.

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Configuration
You define the sequence of the trends in the Trends tab of the Properties dialog in WinCC
Online Trend Control. Select a trend and click "Up" or "Down" button.

See also
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)

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How to Determine the Coordinates of a Point

Introduction
You can use the "Display Value at this Position" key function to determine the coordinates of
a point in the trend. To make it easier to determine the coordinates, you can also enlarge a
particular segment of the trend lines.

Requirement
Configure the Online Trend Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar, using the key functions "Zoom Area" and "Activate
Original View".
You can specify the font for the tag value table that is displayed with the key function
"Display value here" in the "Font" tab and via the property "RulerFont".
Start Runtime.

Procedure
When activating the
button for "Display Value at This Position" a vertical line, a ruler, is
added to the trend window. Below the trend window, the X and Y coordinates of the measured
value are displayed together with the archive and tag names.
The displayed tag values can be assigned an additional attribute in the form of a letter. Where:

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Letter "i" : The displayed tag value is interpolated.
Letter "u" : The displayed value is of uncertain status. This attribute is displayed when the
initial value is not known after Runtime has been activated, or when a substitute value is
used.

Other measurement values can be determined by positioning the mouse pointer on the ruler
and moving it while keeping the left mouse button pressed to the desired position.
Note
The "uncertain" status of a tag value can also be identified in the displayed trend
characteristic. To do this, you must activate the "Value with uncertain status" option on the
"Limit Values" tab of the "Properties of WinCC Online Trend Control" dialog.

If you do not wish to display the tag link in the table, you must set "HideTagNames" in the
object property dialog to "Yes".

See also
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)

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How To Enlarge a Segment of a Trend

Introduction
You can use the "Enlarge Area" key function to zoom in on any segment of the trend window.
You may then find that the keyboard function "Display Value at this Position" is easier to use
within the enlarged display to determine the coordinates of a particular measurement point.
Use the "Activate Original View" key function to switch back from an enlarged display to normal
display mode.

Requirement
Configure the Online Trend Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar, using the buttons assigned to key functions "Zoom Area"
and "Activate Original View".
Start Runtime.

Procedure
1. Click the "Enlarge Area"
button in the toolbar.
The display stops being updated and the mouse pointer changes to a cross-hair.
2. In the trend window, click one corner of the area that you wish to enlarge.
3. Hold down your left mouse button and drag the area you want to enlarge until it reaches
the desired size. If the highlighted area contains at least two measured values, the selected
trend area is displayed in the trend window.
4. Release the left mouse button.
The section you selected is now shown enlarged.
5. Click the "Activate Original View" button
in the toolbar.
The trend window is displayed again in normal view as originally configured.
6. Click the "Start/Stop the Update" button in the toolbar to restart updating the display in the
trend window. For the value ranges of the X and Y axes, the preset values is used by default.

See also
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)

Expanded zoom functions

Introduction
Using the "Zoom area", "Zoom in" and "Zoom out" keyboard functions, a segment of the trend
window can be made larger or smaller in WinCC Online Trend Control.

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"Zoom in" and "Zoom out" keyboard functions

Updating the trend values is stopped when zooming with the "Zoom area" keyboard function.
The trend values can be updated while zooming as well by activating the "Zoom in" and "Zoom
out" keyboard functions.

Requirement
The following requirements apply to "Zoom in" and "Zoom out.
All trends displayed are assigned a fixed value range.
The trends have no user scaling.
The trends are scaled linearly.

"Zoom in", "Zoom out" and original view buttons

The following buttons have been added to the toolbar of WinCC Online Trend Control for new
keyboard functions:
Zoom in. Increases the zoom factor.
Zoom out. Decreases the zoom factor.
While zooming in or zooming out, the 50% value of the trend is always shown in the center of
the value axis.
If you change the limits in the "Value Axis" tab in the configuration dialog while zooming, the
visible zoom area is set to the new limits.
If you want to view the trend window in the original configured view again, click "Activate original
view" in the tool bar:
Activate original view.

Display of archived values

Introduction
Use the buttons in the toolbar of a trend window or the corresponding key combinations to
browse through an archive.
The values archived of a tag are thereby displayed within a time interval in the trend window.
The width of this interval is determined by the time range to be displayed or results from the
time difference of entered start and end times.

Requirement
The buttons for browsing in archive are available only if data is supplied through archive tags.

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Buttons for Archived Values

The trend displays the tag values within a specified time range, beginning with the first
archived value.
The trend displays the tag values within the previous time interval, based on the currently
displayed time interval.
The trend displays the tag values within the next time interval, based on the currently
displayed time interval.
The trend displays the tag values within a specified time range, ending with the last
archived value.

See also
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)
Online Configuration of Online Trend Control (Page1360)
Configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1347)

How to Generate Statistics of Runtime Data

Introduction
You can generate a statistical evaluation of Runtime process data in the trend window. The
following results are displayed in a statistics window for all displayed trends and a specified
time frame:
Minimum
Maximum
Average
Standard deviation

Requirement
Configure the Online Trend Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar by using the key functions "Select statistics area",
"Calculate statistics" and "Start/stop update".
Configure the display with the "Select Time Range" keyboard function, if you wish to choose
a statistics area outside of the time range displayed in the columns.
You can specify the font for the tables that is displayed with the key functions "Select
statistics range" and "Calculate statistics" in the "Font" tab and via the property
"StatisticsFont".
Start Runtime.

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Procedure
1. In the toolbar, click the
button.
The updated display is stopped; process data continues to be archived. The updated display
is stopped, process data continue to be archived. Two vertical lines are displayed at the
left and right edge of the trend window. A window containing the statistics area shows the
current upper (OG) and lower (UG) limits of the trends.
2. Specify the time frame for calculation by dragging both lines to their desired x axis position,
using the mouse.

3.

In the toolbar, click the

button.

4. The "Statistics" window opens showing the results of the calculation for the specified time
frame of one trend.

5. If you wish to display the results of an additional trend in the trend window, select the
appropriate trends in the "Trends" field.
6. In order to continue with the display of Runtime data in trends, close the statistics window
button in the toolbar.
and click the
7. If you require a statistical analysis of process data that are not displayed in the trend window,
click the
button. Enter the desired time frame in the "Select time range" dialog. The
process data are displayed for the specified time frame, and statistics can be calculated.

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To view the process value and the X/Y coordinates of a point in the trend, right-click it. The
information is shown in a tooltip window.
Note
For additional statistical analysis of process data and archiving of results you must write the
scripts yourself.

See also
How to Operate Online Trend Control in Runtime (Page1357)
Online Configuration of Online Trend Control (Page1360)
Configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1347)

6.5.4.4

Before WinCC V7: Process Value Output as a Function of Another Tag

Resources
WinCC Function Trend Control
Introduction
For a graphic processing of tags, Function Trend Control in WinCC offers the option of
displaying one tag as a function of another tag. For example, temperature may be shown as
a function of pressure. Furthermore, trends may be compared to target trends.
Display of trends during Runtime takes place in ActiveX Control, inserted and configured in a
picture in Graphics Designer.

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Requirement
For the display of trends in WinCC Function Trend Control the following prerequisites apply:
In a WinCC Function Trend Control any number of trends may be displayed. However, it
is recommended to configure no more than 8 trends.
A trend can represent a maximum of 10000 value pairs.
For these trends, either online tags, archive tags or data from user archives may be used.
Online tags of a trend must have the identical update cycle.
Archive tags of a trend must have the same update cycle and must be recorded in a
continuous cycle.
Data from user archives can be used for target trends.
The representation of tags in the form of functions over time is only possible, if the values
of the trend are supplied through the API interface. In order to display tags as a function of
time, you should use the WinCC Online Trend Control.

Resolution of Trend Display

The number of trend values that can be displayed on the screen is limited by the screen
resolution and selected size of the trend window. Therefore, when displaying trends, it is
possible that fewer values are displayed in the trend window than are actually archived.

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If, for example, in an area of 100 pixels 200 measurement values are archived, each pixel will
represent 2 measurement values. The value shown on the screen is that of the most recent
data (most recent time stamp).

Display of Trends
Representing Trend Lines
Introduction
WinCC Function Trend Control provides a number of options for representing a trend line.

See also
Comparison with an Ideal Trend (Page1389)
Identification of Special Values (Page1387)
Time Range of Trend Display (Page1386)
Write Direction (Page1384)
Display of Staggered Trends (Page1382)
Display with Logarithmic Axes (Page1380)
Display with common axes (Page1378)
Forms of Display (Page1375)

Forms of Display
Introduction
To graphically display tag values, three basic representation types are available.

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Single Values
Value of measurement points are shown as dots.

Linear Interpolation
The trend line is interpolated on a linear basis from values of measurement points. The trend
is represented as either a solid line or a dashed line. The area under the curve can also be
displayed in a solid color.

Stepped Trend
The trend line is interpolated as a stepped curve from the values of measurement points. The
trend is represented as either a solid line or a dashed line. The area under the curve can also
be displayed in a solid color.

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Configuration
The display of trends is configured on the General tab of the Properties of WinCC Online Trend
Control dialog.

See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - Trends Tab (Page1420)
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

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Display with common axes

Introduction
If multiple trends are to be displayed in a trend window, you have the choice of using individual
axes for each trend or using shared X/Y axes for all trends.

Display with Different Axes

If the tag values to be displayed in a tag window differ greatly, the use of shared axes for the
trend display is not recommended. The tag values can be read more easily if different axial
scales are used.

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Display with Common Axes

If comparison of trend characteristics is important, it is recommended to display trends with
common axes. The exact tag values may be determined in Runtime through zoom or
coordinate inquiry.

Configuration
The display of common axes is configured in the General tab of the Properties of WinCC
Function Trend Control dialog.

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See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - General Tab (Page1416)
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

Display with Logarithmic Axes

Introduction
The axes in the trend window can be scaled on either a logarithmic or a linear basis.
Representation using logarithmic axes means that no negative values can be displayed, and
representation using negative logarithmic axes means that no positive values can be displayed.

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Configuration
Representations using logarithmic axes are configured in the X axis or Y axis tab of the
Properties of WinCC Function Trend Control dialog.

See also
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

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Display of Staggered Trends

Introduction
In a staggered display, the trends are displayed offset over each other in the trend window.
For each trend, the value range to be displayed can be set for the Y axis.

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Configuration
The display of staggered trends is configured in the General tab of the Properties of WinCC
Online Trend Control dialog.

See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - General Tab (Page1416)
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

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Write Direction
Introduction
The write direction defines the direction in which the positive values on the axes are depicted.
Thus the setting from the bottom means that positive values on the Y axis will be shown in the
downward direction.
If a setting of From the top or From the bottom is selected for the write direction, only TrueType fonts should be used inside the Trend window to ensure a clear display of labels on the
vertical axis.

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Configuration
The write direction configured in the General tab of the Properties of WinCC Function Trend
Control dialog.

See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - General Tab (Page1416)
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

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Time Range of Trend Display

Introduction
With regard to the time ranges to be displayed, there are a number of ways to present a trend
display of tags:

Static Representation of a Tag

Static representation presents the course of a tag within a defined time interval, based on the
archived values.

If display updating is stopped in runtime, the Data Linking tab of the Properties of WinCC
Function Trend Control dialog can be used to configure the time range that needs to be
represented. This time range is derived either by defining a starting time and end time or by
defining a starting time and the number of value pairs to be represented.

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Dynamic Display of Tags

When displaying one tag as a function of another tag in dynamic mode, the value of
measurement point associated with the current system time changes along the function graph.
New measurement values coming in will be included in the display.

The time range to be represented is configured in the Data Linking tab of the Properties of
WinCC Function Trend Control dialog. This time range is derived either by defining a starting
time and end time or by defining the number of value pairs to be represented.

See also
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

Identification of Special Values

Introduction
In any trend, values may occur which are above or below a limiting value, or which have an
uncertain status. Such special values can be highlighted in color. Values with an uncertain

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status are those whose initial value is not known after runtime has been activated, or for which
a substitute value is used.

Configuration
Color-coded identification of special values is configured in the Limiting Values tab of the
Properties of WinCC Function Trend Control dialog.

See also
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

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Comparison with an Ideal Trend

Introduction
Any trend can be configured with an ideal trend. It is then possible to make an effective
comparison between the actual trend line and the specified ideal trend. The values for the ideal
trend must be held in a user archive. You can create user archives with the aid of WinCC option
User Archives.

Configuration
The values for the ideal trend are configured in a user archive.
The display for an ideal trend is configured in the Trends tab of the Properties of WinCC
Function Trend Control dialog box.

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See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - Trends Tab (Page1420)
Representing Trend Lines (Page1375)

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Configuration
Configuration of WinCC Online Trend Control
Introduction
The steps you need to take in order to configure WinCC Function Trend Control are dependent
on the tags you wish to display.

Display of Online Tags

1. The tags you wish to display need to be configured in WinCC Explorer.
2. Link the WinCC Function Trend Control to a Graphics Designer picture and edit the
properties of the ActiveX Control.

Display of Archive Tags

1. The tags you wish to display need to be configured in WinCC Explorer.
2. Use the Archive Wizard to create a process value archive.
3. Configure the process value tags it will contain.
4. Link the WinCC Function Trend Control to a Graphics Designer picture and edit the
properties of the ActiveX Control.

Display of Values from User Archive

1. Create a user archive.
2. Configure the fields it will contain.
3. Link the WinCC user archive table element to a Graphics Designer picture and edit the
properties of the ActiveX Control.
4. Link the WinCC Function Trend Control to a Graphics Designer picture and edit the
properties of the ActiveX Control.
5. Enable runtime and input the display values into the user archive or import them from a csv
file.

Comparison with an Ideal Trend

1. Create a user archive.
2. Configure the fields it will contain.
3. Link the WinCC user archive table element to a Graphics Designer picture and edit the
properties of the ActiveX Control.

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4. Link the WinCC Function Trend Control to a Graphics Designer picture and edit the
properties of the ActiveX Control.
5. Enable runtime and input the ideal trend values into the user archive or import them from
a csv file.

See also
How to Display Archive Tags (Page1394)
How to Compare Tag Values with an Ideal Trend (Page1396)
How to Display Data from User Archives (Page1395)
How to Display Online Tags (Page1393)
How to Insert Function Trend Control in a Picture (Page1392)

How to Insert Function Trend Control in a Picture

Introduction
Tags are displayed in runtime in an ActiveX Control, which is inserted in a picture and
configured with the aid of the Graphics Designer.

Procedure
1. Start Graphics Designer and open a new picture.
2. In the Object Palette Default tab, click the smart object Control.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Drag the control to the desired size.
The Insert a Control dialog is opened.
5. Select WinCC Function Trend Control and confirm your selection by clicking OK.
The Properties of WinCC Function Trend Control quick configuration dialog box opens.
6. Click OK to close the dialog.

See also
How to Compare Tag Values with an Ideal Trend (Page1396)
How to Display Data from User Archives (Page1395)
How to Display Online Tags (Page1393)
How to Display Archive Tags (Page1394)

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How to Display Online Tags

Requirement
Configure two tags (Tag1, Tag2) with data type signed 16-bit value.
Insert the Function Trend Control into a Graphics Designer picture.

Procedure
1. In Graphics Designer, open a picture using Function Trend Control.
2. Double-click the Function Trend Control.
3. Click the "Data Linking" tab.
4. For "Data Source", select the "Online Tags" setting.
5. In the "Select Archive/Tag" area, use the button marked "..." and select Tag1 for the X axis.
6. In the "Select Archive/Tag" area, use the button marked "..." and select Tag2 for the Y axis.
7. To define the time range you wish to display, specify a starting time and the number of
value pairs to be represented.

8. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.

9. Save the picture.
10.Enable runtime and start the WinCC Tag Simulator.
Note
The tags to be displayed within a trend must have the same updating cycle.

See also
How to Use the Simulator (Page1401)
How to Insert Function Trend Control in a Picture (Page1392)

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How to Display Archive Tags

Requirement
Configure two tags (Tag1, Tag2) with data type signed 16-bit value.
Create a process value archive containing Tag1 and Tag2.
Insert the Function Trend Control into a Graphics Designer picture.

Procedure
1. In Graphics Designer, open a picture using Function Trend Control.
2. Double-click the Function Trend Control.
3. Click the "Data Linking" tab.
4. For "Data Source", select the "Archive Tags" setting.
5. In the "Select Archive/Tag" area, use the button marked "..." and select Tag1 stored in
process value archive PW1 for the X axis.
6. In the "Select Archive/Tag" area, use the button marked "..." and select Tag2 stored in
process value archive PW2 for the Y axis.
7. To define the time range you wish to display, specify a starting time and the number of
value pairs to be represented.

8. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.

9. Save the picture.
10.Enable runtime and start the WinCC Tag Simulator.
Note
The tags to be displayed in a trend must originate from an archive on a server and be acquired
in a continuous cycle.

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See also
How to Use the Simulator (Page1401)
How to Insert Function Trend Control in a Picture (Page1392)
How to Create a Process Value Archive (Page1412)

How to Display Data from User Archives

Introduction
You can use WinCC Function Trend Control to display value pairs from user archives. You
can create user archives with the aid of WinCC option User Archives.

Requirement
Configure a user archive with the columns "Setpoint X" and "Setpoint Y".
In runtime, input values for "Setpoint X" and "Setpoint Y".
Insert the Function Trend Control into a Graphics Designer picture.

Procedure
1. In Graphics Designer, open a picture using Function Trend Control.
2. Double-click the Function Trend Control.
3. Click the "Data Linking" tab.
4. Go to "Provider" and select the setting "User Archive".
5. In the "User Archive" area, use the button marked "..." and select user archive UA1.
6. In the "Column for X Values" area, select the "Setpoint X" column.
7. In the "Column for Y Values" area, select the "Setpoint Y" column.
8. To define the time range you wish to display, specify the number of value pairs to be
represented and the ID of the first value pair.

9. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.

10.Save the picture.
11.Enable runtime and start the WinCC Tag Simulator.
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See also
How to Use the Simulator (Page1401)
How to Insert Function Trend Control in a Picture (Page1392)
How to Create a User Archive (Page1413)

How to Compare Tag Values with an Ideal Trend

Requirement
Configure a user archive with the columns "Setpoint X" and "Setpoint Y".
In runtime, input values for "Setpoint X" and "Setpoint Y".
Insert the Function Trend Control into a Graphics Designer picture.
Configure the data linking for the Function Trend Control.

Procedure
1. In Graphics Designer, open a picture using Function Trend Control.
2. Double-click the Function Trend Control.
3. Click the "Trends" tab.
4. Select the "Ideal Trend" check box.
5. Click the "Properties..." button.
The "Properties of the Ideal Trend" dialog box opens.
6. In the "User Archive" area, use the button marked "..." and select user archive UA1.
7. In the "Column for X Values" area, select the "Setpoint X" column.
8. In the "Column for Y Values" area, select the "Setpoint Y" column.

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9. To define the time range you wish to display, specify the number of value pairs to be
represented and the ID of the first value pair.

10.Select the color and representation type for the ideal trend.
11.Click "OK" to close all open dialogs.
12.Save the picture.
13.Enable runtime and start the WinCC Tag Simulator.

See also
How to Use the Simulator (Page1401)
How to Insert Function Trend Control in a Picture (Page1392)
How to Create a User Archive (Page1413)
How to Create a Process Value Archive (Page1412)

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How to Display a Tag as a Function of Time

Introduction
You can also use Function Trend Control to display tags as a function of time. However, this
is only possible if the data source for the trends is connected over the application programming
interface (API). For this the setting none must be selected (as Provider) in the Data Linking
tab of the Properties of WinCC Function Trend Control dialog box.

Note
In order to display tags as a function of time, you should use the WinCC Online Trend Control.

Example
The example shows the supply of values for a trend using the API interface. The third trend
(index = 2) of Control1 in a picture is supplied with data. This results in a sine curve, consisting
of 1440 value pairs:
// Definitions for the calculation of sine
#define NUMVALUES 1440 // Number of value pairs
#define PI 3.14159265359 // PI
// Variant for supply of DataXY property
VARIANT vtDataXY;
// Variant that contains a single data pair
VARIANT vtPair;
// Represents the X value of a data pair
VARIANT vtDataX;
// Represents the Y value of a data pair
VARIANT vtDataY;
// For faster access to the SAFEARRAY data that is contained in the
Variants.
VARIANT* pvtDataXY = NULL;

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VARIANT* pvtPair = NULL;
int i = 0;
long lIndex = 0;
double dAngle = 0;
HRESULT hr = 0;
SAFEARRAYBOUND rgsabound[1];
// Initializing of the DataXY Variant
VariantInit( &vtDataXY );
// Creation of the SAFEARRAY for the DataXY property
rgsabound[0].cElements = NUMVALUES; // NUMVALUES - value pairs
rgsabound[0].lLbound = 0;
vtDataXY.u.parray = SafeArrayCreate( VT_VARIANT, 1, rgsabound );
if( vtDataXY.u.parray )
{
vtDataXY.vt = (VARTYPE)( VT_ARRAY | VT_VARIANT );
}
else
{
// No memory left
return;
}
// Set the trend index
SetPropBOOL( lpszPictureName, Control1, Index, 2 );
// Delete all trend data
SetPropBOOL( lpszPictureName, Control1, DeleteData, TRUE );
// Obtain direct access to values of the DataXY-SAFEARRAYS
hr = SafeArrayAccessData( vtDataXY.u.parray, &pvtDataXY );
if( hr == 0 && pvtDataXY )
{
for( i = 0; i < NUMVALUES; ++i )
{
// Initializing of the Variants in order to fill the DataXYSAFEARRAY
VariantInit( &vtPair );
VariantInit( &vtDataX );

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VariantInit( &vtDataY );
// Generation of a single value pair SAFEARRAY
// Always two values, respectively for the X and Y value.
rgsabound[0].cElements = 2;
vtPair.u.parray = SafeArrayCreate( VT_VARIANT, 1, rgsabound );
if( vtPair.u.parray )
{
vtPair.vt = (VARTYPE)(VT_ARRAY | VT_VARIANT );
// Obtain direct access to the data of the DataXY-SAFEARRAY
SafeArrayAccessData( vtPair.u.parray, &pvtPair );
if( pvtPair )
{
// Set the X value
vtDataX.vt = VT_R8;
vtDataX.u.dblVal = (double)( i - NUMVALUES/2 );
dAngle = ( i - NUMVALUES/2 ) * 2 * PI / 360;
// Set the Y value
vtDataY.vt = VT_R8;
vtDataY.u.dblVal = sin( dAngle );
// Write values into the value pair SAFEARRAY
VariantCopy( &pvtPair[0], &vtDataX );
VariantCopy( &pvtPair[1], &vtDataY );

// Re-enable the value pair SAFEARRAY data

SafeArrayUnaccessData( vtPair.u.parray );
pvtPair = NULL;
// Copy the value pair into DataXY-SAFEARRAY
VariantCopy( &pvtDataXY[i], &vtPair );
}
}
// Enable the used SAFEARRAYs
VariantClear( &vtDataX );
VariantClear( &vtDataY );
VariantClear( &vtPair );
}

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// Enable access to the DataXY-SAFEARRAY data.
SafeArrayUnaccessData( vtDataXY.u.parray );
// Set the DataXY property
PDLRTSetPropEx( PDLRT_AM_DEFAULT, lpszPictureName, Control1,
DataXY,
VT_VARIANT, (void*)&vtDataXY, NULL, NULL, 0, NULL, NULL );
// Add value pairs at the end
SetPropBOOL( lpszPictureName, Control1, InsertData, TRUE );
}
VariantClear( &vtDataXY );

How to Use the Simulator

Introduction
To familiarize yourself with the functionality of the WinCC Function Trend Control in runtime,
you can use the Tag Simulator to simulate the tags configured in the examples.

Requirement
Configure a WinCC Function Trend Control in the Graphics Designer.
Enable runtime.
Start the Tag Simulator.

Procedure
1. In the Edit menu, click the New Tag command.
2. Select Tag 1 and confirm your selection by clicking OK.
3. Click the Properties tab and input the following values for Tag 1.
Amplitude: 50
Offset: 50
Vibration period: 25
4. Click the Tags tab.
5. In the Edit menu, click the New Tag command.
6. Select Tag 1 and confirm your selection by clicking OK.
7. Click the Properties tab and input the following values for Tag 1.
Amplitude: 50
Offset: 50
Vibration period: 50
8. Click the Tags tab.

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9. Click the Start Simulation button.
10.In WinCC runtime, track the display of the tags in the WinCC Function Trend Control.

Operation in Runtime
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime
Introduction
The trend window is operated in runtime via the buttons in the toolbar.
"Online-Help-System"
Calling up the Online help
"Open the Configuration Dialog"
Selecting the dialog to assign display parameters.
"Display Value at this Position"
Click this button to query the coordinate points of a trend.
"Zoom Area"
Click this button to zoom in on any section of the trend window.
"Activate Original View"
Click this button to return to the configured normal view (after
zooming).
"Opens the dialog for selecting a trend"
Opens a dialog to configure the settings for the selected trends
"Previous trend in foreground"
Click this button to display the previous trend in the foreground of the
trend window
"Next trend in the front"
Click this button to display the next trend in the foreground of the trend
window
"Start/Stop update"
Updates are stopped/started and can be continued/stopped by
clicking the button.
"Print Log"
Click this button to print the trend shown in the trend window. Print job
used during printing can be specified in the control properties on the
"General" tab.

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See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - Toolbar Tab (Page1414)
Starting and Stopping Update (Page1405)
Displaying a Trend on Top (Page1406)
How To Enlarge a Segment of a Trend (Page1410)
How to Determine the Coordinates of a Point (Page1408)
Online Configuration of Function Trend Control (Page1403)

Online Configuration of Function Trend Control

Introduction
There are two possible methods by which you can modify the configuration of the Function
Trend Control in runtime.

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Keyboard function Open the Parameter Dialog

Keyboard function Open the Configuration Dialog allows you to access virtually all Function
Trend Control settings including data linking for the trends that are to be displayed. Only the
input privileges configured for persistence cannot be amended in runtime.

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Keyboard function Opens the dialog for selecting a trend

Keyboard function Opens the dialog for selecting a trend allows you to access certain Function
Trend Control settings.

See also
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime (Page1402)

Starting and Stopping Update

Introduction
You can use keyboard function Start/Stop the Update to halt or restart the update in the trend
window. When the update is stopped you can modify the time range being displayed, and
display value of measurement points from the process value archive in the trend window.
Certain functions, such as keyboard function Enlarge Area automatically stop the update of
value of measurement points.
When updates are stopped, you may change the displayed time frame and therefore display
measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.
: When updates are stopped, you may change the displayed time frame and therefore
display measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.
: When updates are started, you may change the displayed time frame and therefore
display measurement values from the process value archive in the table window.

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See also
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime (Page1402)

Displaying a Trend on Top

Introduction
If a common axis is used, the settings for the trend displayed displaying the axis.
You can modify the trend displayed on top in runtime:

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with the
with the
with the

button: (keyboard function Opens the dialog for selecting a trend)

button: (keyboard function Next trend on top)
button: (keyboard function Previous trend on top)

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Configuration
The sequence to be used for the trends is configured in the Limiting Value tab of the Properties
of WinCC Function Trend Control dialog box. It can be changed via the Up and Down buttons.

See also
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime (Page1402)

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How to Determine the Coordinates of a Point

Introduction
You can use the "Display Value at this Position" key function to determine the coordinates of
a point in the trend. To make it easier to determine the coordinates, you can also enlarge a
particular segment of the trend lines.

Requirement
Configure a Function Trend Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar, using the buttons assigned to key functions "Zoom Area"
and "Activate Normal View".
You can specify the font for the tag value table that is displayed with the key function
"Display value here" in the "Font" tab and via the property "RulerFont".
Start Runtime.

Procedure
1. In the toolbar, click the "Display Value at this Position" button.
A cross-hair appears in the trend window. The coordinates for the center point of the crosshair are displayed below the trend window.
2. Move the mouse over one of the axes or the center point of the crosshair.
3. Hold down your left mouse button and drag the center point of the crosshair to the position
of the value of measurement point whose coordinates you wish to know.

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4. Release the left mouse button.

5. Read off the coordinates for the value of measurement point from the area below the trend
window.
6. In the toolbar, click the "Display Value at this Position" button.
The cross-hair disappears.
Note
Points which lie between two measured value pairs and have therefore interpolated are
identified with an "i".

See also
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime (Page1402)

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How To Enlarge a Segment of a Trend

Introduction
You can use the "Enlarge Area" key function to zoom in on any segment of the trend window.
You may then find that the keyboard function "Display Value at this Position" is easier to use
within the enlarged display to determine the coordinates of a particular measurement point.
Use the "Activate Original View" key function to switch back from an enlarged display to normal
display mode.

Requirement
Configure a Function Trend Control.
Configure the display of a toolbar, using the buttons assigned to key functions "Zoom Area"
and "Activate Normal View".
Start Runtime.

Procedure
1. Click the "Enlarge Area" button in the toolbar.
The display stops being updated and the mouse pointer changes to a cross-hair.
2. In the trend window, click one corner of the area that you wish to enlarge.

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3. Hold down your left mouse button and drag the area you want to enlarge until it reaches
the desired size.

4. Release the left mouse button.

The section you selected is now shown enlarged.
5. Click the "Activate Original View" button in the toolbar.
The trend window is once more displayed in normal view as originally configured.
6. Click on the "Start/Stop the Update" button in the toolbar to restart updating the display in
the trend window.

See also
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime (Page1402)

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Appendix
How to Create a Process Value Archive
Introduction
In order to display archive tags in a WinCC Function Trend Control, you must configure a
process value archive. A process value archive is created most easily with the help of the
Archive wizard.

Procedure
1. Start Tag Logging and select the "Archive Wizard ...". command in the archive pop-up menu.

2. In the second step of the Archive Wizard, assign a meaningful name to the process value
archive.
3. In the third step of the Archive Wizard, include the desired tags in the process value archive.
4. Close the Wizard by clicking "Apply".
Note
For the other examples of Function Trend Control, you require process value archive PW1
with the three tags Tag 1, Tag 2 and Tag 3, each with data type signed 16-bit value.

See also
How to Display Archive Tags (Page1394)

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How to Create a User Archive

Introduction
To display ideal trends or values from user archives in a WinCC Function Trend Control, you
need to configure a user archive. You can create user archives with the aid of WinCC option
User Archives.

Procedure
1. Start User Archives and from the Archives pop-up menu select the command New Archive.

2. Give the user archive a meaningful name and click the Finish button.
3. Answer the question about creating a field in the archive with Yes.
4. Give the first field a meaningful name and click the Finish button.
5. Answer the question about creating another field in the archive with Yes.
6. Give the second field a meaningful name and click the Finish button.
7. Answer the question about creating another field with No.
8. Answer the question about creating another archive with No.
9. Click the Save button in the toolbar.
Note
For the other examples of Function Trend Control, you require user archive UA1 with columns
Setpoint X and Setpoint Y.

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See also
How to Insert the User Archive Table Element into a Picture (Page1419)
How to Compare Tag Values with an Ideal Trend (Page1396)
How to Display Data from User Archives (Page1395)

Properties of Function Trend Control - Toolbar Tab

Introduction
On the Toolbar tab, define the toolbar buttons which may be used to operate the trend window
in runtime.

Display
Defines whether a toolbar can be used to operate the trend window in runtime.

Alignment
Defines at which edge of the trend window the toolbar will be displayed.

Keyboard Functions
This attribute defines which keyboard functions will be displayed as buttons in the toolbar and
be available for operating the trend window.
Online-Help System
Open the Configuration Dialog
Display Value at this Position
Enlarge Area

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Activate Original View
Opens the dialog for selecting a trend
Next Trend to the Front
Previous Trend to the Front
Start/Stop the Update

Key, Hot Key

Specifies the hot key with which a chosen keyboard function can be triggered.

See also
How to Operate Function Trend Control in Runtime (Page1402)
Properties of the Function Trend Control (Page1421)

Properties of Function Trend Control - Font Tab

Introduction
On the Font tab, you can set the font to be used in the trend window. If you select either from
the top or from the bottom as the direction to be written, you should use True-Type fonts within
the trend window to ensure a clean display of the X axis labeling.
Note
The appearance of this tab and the names of the different fields depend on other installed
programs.

Font
Specifies the name of the character set which is to be used.

Font Size
Sets the size of the selected character set.

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Display
Sets the font style for the selected character set (e.g. bold, italic, underline).

Sample Text
Shows a preview using the chosen settings.

See also
Properties of the Function Trend Control (Page1421)

Properties of Function Trend Control - General Tab

Introduction
On the General tab, you can define the general appearance and behavior of the trend window.

Window Title - Display

Defines whether the title bar of the trend window will be displayed in Runtime.

Window Title - Input Field

Defines the text that will be displayed in the title bar of the trend window in Runtime.

Background Color
Defines the background color that will be used in the trend window in Runtime.

Open Picture - Display Ruler

Defines whether the ruler for querying the coordinate points will automatically be displayed in
the trend window every time there is a picture exchange in Runtime.

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Open Picture - Load archive data

Defines whether archived values should be loaded or currently occurring values should be
displayed when the picture is opened.

Display - Status Bar

Defines whether the status bar of the trend window will be displayed in Runtime.

Display - Toolbar
Defines whether the toolbar of the trend window will be displayed in Runtime.

Display - Write Direction

Defines the direction in which the positive values on the axes are dipicated.
From the Right
From the Left
From the Top
From the
Bottom

Positive values run to the right and upwards.

Positive values run to the left and upwards.
Positive values run to the right and upwards.
Positive values run to the right and downwards.

Display - Common X Axis

Defines whether the common X axis will be used for all the trends in the trend window. The
first trend in the list of trend window elements (Trends tab) determines the color and the range
of the axis.

Display - Common Y Axis

Defines whether the common Y axis will be used for all the trends in the trend window. The
first trend in the list of trend window elements (Trends tab) determines the color and the range
of the axis.

Display - Sizable
Defines whether the size of the trend window can be changed in Runtime.

Display - Can Be Closed

Defines whether the trend window can be closed in Runtime.

Persistence in RT
Specifies in Runtime whether changes made to the Function Trend Control settings should
also be effective after a picture exchange.

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In the Configuration System you can use the "Selection..." button to select one of the
authorizations configured in the User Administrator. Should you assign an operator
authorization, the persistence setting can only be changed in runtime if the logged in user has
the authorization to do so.

Persistence in RT and CS
Specifies in runtime whether changes made to the Function Trend Control settings will also
be applied to the Configuration System and be used when the project is reactivated.
In the Configuration System you can use the "Selection..." button to select one of the
authorizations configured in the User Administrator. Should you assign an operator
authorization, the persistence setting can only be changed in runtime if the logged in user has
the authorization to do so.
Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with PCS 7
projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the changed settings
on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.

Time Base
Defines the base for the time setting in WinCC.

See also
Properties of the Function Trend Control (Page1421)
Setting Time in WinCC (Page64)

Quick Configuration of Function Trend Control

Introduction (*** OUTDATED TRANSLATION! ***)
After inserting a Function Trend Control into a picture in the Graphics Designer, the Quick
Configuration dialog box opens. This simplifies the configuration task by bringing together the
main features of Function Trend Control in a single dialog box.

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See also
Properties of the Function Trend Control (Page1421)

How to Insert the User Archive Table Element into a Picture

Introduction
To display ideal trends or values from user archives in a WinCC Function Trend Control, you
need to configure a user archive. You can create user archives with the aid of WinCC option
User Archives. Values are entered in the user archive in runtime in the WinCC User Archive Table Element, which is inserted in a picture and configured with the aid of the Graphics
Designer.

Requirement
Configure a user archive UA1 with the columns Setpoint X and Setpoint Y.

Procedure
1. Start Graphics Designer and open a new picture.
2. In the Object Palette, Controls tab, click the object WinCC User Archive - Table Element.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the picture where you want to insert the
control.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the control to the desired size.
5. Double-click the User Archive - Table Element.
6. In the Source area, click the Select button.
7. Select the user archive.
8. Click OK to close the dialog.
9. Save the picture.
10.Enable runtime and enter values in the Setpoint X and Setpoint Y columns.

See also
How to Compare Tag Values with an Ideal Trend (Page1396)
How to Display Data from User Archives (Page1395)
How to Create a User Archive (Page1413)

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Properties of Function Trend Control - Trends Tab

Introduction
On the Trends tab, you can define the tags you wish to display and the appearance of the
trends.

Trends
Defines the trends to be displayed. Use the + and - buttons to add new or delete existing trends.
Use the Up and Down buttons to change the order of the trends. The order of the trends is
analyzed in runtime by the keyboard functions Previous trend on top and Next trend on top.
When using shared axes, the first trend in the list determines the color and value range of the
axes.

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Name
Defines the name of the trend. This name is used in the list of elements.

Display - Visible
Defines whether the trend selected in the list of elements is to be displayed in runtime. With
this setting, you can suppress the display of configured trends without actually having to delete
them.

Display - Color
Defines the color with which the trend selected in the list of elements and its associated axes
will be displayed in runtime.

Ideal Trend
Defines whether an ideal trend is to be displayed with the trend selected in the list of elements.
Use the Properties button to set the properties of the ideal trend.

See also
Displaying a Trend on Top (Page1406)
Properties of the Function Trend Control - Setpoint Trend Properties (Page1422)
Properties of the Function Trend Control (Page1421)

Properties of the Function Trend Control

Introduction
The properties of WinCC Function Trend Control can be modified by using either the Quick
Configuration dialog, the Configuration dialog or the Properties.

Quick Configuration
The Quick Configuration dialog box opens automatically when you insert a Function Trend
Control into a picture in the Graphics Designer.

Configuration Dialog
The Configuration dialog box opens when you double-click or use the Configuration dialog...
command in the Function Trend Control pop-up menu.

Properties
The Properties dialog box opens when you use the Properties command in the Function Trend
Control pop-up menu.
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See also
Properties of Function Trend Control - Font Tab (Page1415)
Properties of Function Trend Control - Toolbar Tab (Page1414)
Properties of Function Trend Control - Trends Tab (Page1420)
Properties of Function Trend Control - General Tab (Page1416)
Quick Configuration of Function Trend Control (Page1418)

Properties of the Function Trend Control - Setpoint Trend Properties

Introduction
In the Setpoint Trend Properties dialog, select the color, layout and data basis of the setpoint
trend.

Archive Linking - Source

Defines the name of the user archive in which the value pairs of the setpoint trend are stored.
Click ... to select a configured user archive.

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Archive Linking - Column for X-Values

Defines the column in the user archive that contains the X coordinates of the value pairs for
the setpoint trend.

Archive Linking - Column for Y-Values

Defines the column in the user archive that contains the Y coordinates of the value pairs for
the setpoint trend.

Archive Linking - Number of Values

Defines the number of values on which the setpoint trend is based.

Archive Linking - from ID

Defines the record in the user archive in which the value pairs of the setpoint trend are stored.

Display - Color
Defines the color in which the trend is displayed in runtime.

Display of Format
Defines the format in which the trend is displayed in runtime.

See also
Properties of the Function Trend Control (Page1421)

6.6

Direct Access to the Archive Database

Introduction
Various providers offer interfaces that you can use to access databases. These interfaces also
enable you to directly access the WinCC archive databases. Direct access lets you, for
example, read process values for editing in spreadsheet programs.

Prerequisite
The project is loaded on the configuration computer and is located in Runtime.

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6.6 Direct Access to the Archive Database

Access to archive databases with ADO/OLE DB

The process values are partially saved in compressed format to the archive databases. Use
the WinCC OLE DB Provider to access such compressed process values. You can use the
Visual Basic or Visual C++ programming languages, for example.
Note
Note that the table structure may vary in a new WinCC version when directly accessing the
archive database using ADO/OLE DB.
For further information, refer to the Microsoft MSDN Library at "Win32 and COM Development
> Data Access and Storage > Windows Data Access Components SDK" on the Internet:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/default.aspx (http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/
library/default.aspx)

Access to the archive database using OPC

OPC (OLE for Process Control) provides interfaces for communication with process
automation systems. The OPC interface enables harmonized interconnection of devices and
applications from different manufacturers. You can use WinCC as an OPC client to access
process data or messages of an OPC server. WinCC can by used as OPC server to manage
archive data.
For further information, refer to:
"WinCC Information System", "Communication" > "OPC",
"WinCC Information System", "System Overview" > "Open Source"
On the Internet at "http://www.opcfoundation.org"

Access to the archive database using C-API/ODK

You can use the "WinCC Open Development Kit" option to access WinCC data and functions
by means of open source programming interfaces.
For further information, refer to:
Documentation of the WinCC Open Development Kit

See also
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/default.aspx (http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/
default.aspx)

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6.7 Function Call Templates

6.7

Function Call Templates

6.7.1

Function Call Templates

In different dialogs of the Tag Logging" configuration system, you can specify functions to be
executed when certain events occur. These functions must be developed by you in the Global
Script editor and must comply with the nomenclature of the respective template.
The following templates for function calls are available in WinCC:
Function During Start of Archiving
Function for Conversion of Tag Values
Function to Start Archiving
Function to Stop Archiving

See also
Function to Stop Archiving (Page1427)
Function to Start Archiving (Page1427)
Function for Conversion of Tag Values (Page1426)
Function During Start of Archiving (Page1425)

6.7.2

Function During Start of Archiving

void function name (Boolean fFlag);

Description
This function is triggered during the start of an archiving process. It can be assigned on the
"General" tab in the "Properties" dialog in the Archiving group.

Parameters
fFlag
TRUE Lock Archive
FALSE Unlock Archive

Application Example
You can for example use this function to obtain information on the status of an archive.

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6.7 Function Call Templates

6.7.3

Function for Conversion of Tag Values

double function name (double doLmtValue,

double doValue,
int dwCount,
int archiving);
Description
This function can be used to convert a tag value prior to archiving. The value of the process
tag (here: doValue) can be recalculated according to the requirements. The result is returned
as a return value of the function to Tag Logging for archiving. The function is assigned under
Edit/Action in the Properties Process Tag dialog in the Parameter tab .

Parameters
dLmtValue:last acquired value (from last acquisition cycle)
doValue :currently acquired value
dwCount: number of acquisition cycles since the last archiving
Logging: TRUE when archiving is performed

Application Example
The current process value should be divided by 10 and archived.

double Norm_PDE(double doLmtValue, double doValue, int dwCount, int

Archiving)
{
return (doValue/10);
}
Note
Note that the transfer parameter is declared in exactly the same way as in this example. The
parameters are transferred from Tag Logging to the function.
What happens within an action is the responsibility of the user.

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6.7.4

Function to Start Archiving

int function name ( );

Description
The function must return value "0" (corresponds to FALSE) or "1" (corresponds to TRUE).
Other values are not permissible. An archiving process is triggered, depending on the archiving
method and the value returned by the function.
For cyclic archiving, the archiving is always triggered, if the return value of the function is "1".
For acyclic archiving, the archiving is always triggered, if the returned value has changed since
the last function call. The first function call must return value "1".
The function is assigned in the Properties Process Tag dialog in the Archiving tab in the Actions
group.

6.7.5

Function to Stop Archiving

int function name ( );

Description
The function must return value "0" (FALSE) or "1" (TRUE). Upon a return value of "1" a running
archiving process can be stopped.
The function is assigned in the Properties Process Tag dialog in the Archiving tab in the Actions
group.

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6.7 Function Call Templates

6.7.6

Appendix

6.7.6.1

Action for Swap-Out

void function name (

LPTSTR lpszArchivName
LPTSTR lpszVariablenName,
DWORD dwNumberOfRecords);
Description
With this function you can specify how to swap out your short-term archive.
Upon reaching the upper limit of your short-term archive, this function is called for each tag of
the archive.
Once the function is triggered, the call to this function is cyclic whenever the respective tag
writes new values to the short-term archive.
This function can be assigned on the "Archive Parameters" tab in the "Process Value Archive
Properties" dialog.

Parameters
lpszArchivName
Pointer on Name of Archive.

lpszVariablenName
Pointer on Name of Tag.

dwNumberOfRecords
Number of measured values saved in short-term archive.
Note
The function is also executed if the archive is locked.

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6.7 Function Call Templates

6.7.6.2

Action upon Sending

void function name (

bool fFlag);
Description
This function is triggered after a tag is sent. It can be assigned on the "Raw Data Tag" tab of
the "User Archive Properties" dialog.

Parameters
fFlag
The parameter is assigned value "FALSE" and is reserved for future upgrades.

Application Example
This function can be used to ensure that a message is displayed when a raw data tag is sent.

6.7.6.3

Action upon Reception

void function name (

bool fFlag);
Description
This function is triggered after a tag is received. It can be assigned on the "Raw Data Tag" tab
of the "User Archive Properties" dialog.

Parameters
fFlag
The parameter is assigned value "FALSE" and is reserved for future upgrades.

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Application Example
This function can be used, for example, to evaluate a raw data tag immediately after it is
received.

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7

Resources

7.1

The WinCC Reporting System

Content
WinCC offers you extensive scope for documenting a project. There are two categories of log
available to you for outputting data:
Reports for project documentation
Logs for Runtime documentation
The reports for project documentation output the configuration data of a WinCC project (e.g.
a table with the tags used and their parameters, plant mimic diagrams with their objects, or
the user groups created).
The logs for Runtime documentation output process data during Runtime (e.g. for printing
messages chronologically or for logging message archives or user archives during Runtime).
This help system shows you how to document your configuration and Runtime data using the
layouts contained in the system.

7.2

Documentation of Configuration and Runtime Data

Introduction
To document configuration and Runtime data, reports and logs are created in WinCC, for which
predefined layouts are supplied. These predefined layouts will cover most of the cases in which
you need to document data. You can use Report Designer to edit predefined layouts or create
new layouts to suit your requirements and wishes.

Applications
The reporting system allows you to output:
Configuration data in a report
Runtime data in a log

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7.2 Documentation of Configuration and Runtime Data

Usage
The documentation of configuration data is referred to below as project documentation. It
allows the configuration data of a WinCC project to be output in a report.
The documentation of Runtime data is referred to below as Runtime documentation. It allows
the process data to be output in a log during Runtime. In order to output the Runtime data, the
corresponding application must be in Runtime.
Report Designer makes print jobs available for outputting the reports and logs. The scheduling,
output medium and extent of the output is defined in the print jobs.
The dynamic objects of Report Designer are used for data output. These dynamic objects are
associated with the corresponding applications.
Selection of data for output is application-dependent and is carried out when the layout is
created, when the print job is created, or when printing is initiated. The current view or the table
content is output in the WinCC V7 controls and the corresponding layouts and print jobs.
The dynamic objects are supplied with the current values during output of the reports and logs.
The structure and configuration of the reports for project documentation and logs for Runtime
documentation is largely identical. The essential differences lie in the connection of the data
source with the dynamic objects and in the initiation of printing.

Output Media
The reports and logs can be output with the following layouts:
To a printer
To a file
To the screen

Output Formats
The reports and logs can be output with the following layouts:
A page layout
A line layout (message sequence report only)

Editors for the Layouts

Report Designer provides the page layout editor for editing page layouts. Both the page layouts
for the project documentation reports and the logs for Runtime documentation are configured
in the page layout editor.
Report Designer provides the line layout editor for editing line layouts. Only line layouts for the
output of the message sequence report are configured in the line layout editor.

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See also
Introduction to Runtime Documentation (Page1469)
Introduction to Project Documentation (Page1445)
How to Create Reports in Line Layout (Page1435)
How to Set Up Reports in the Page Layout (Page1433)

7.3

How to Set Up Reports in the Page Layout

How the Areas of a Page Layout Are Divided Up

Page layouts are divided up geometrically into a number of different areas. The page range
corresponds to the total area of the layout. The print margins can be specified for this area. It
makes sense to begin by configuring the margins of the printable area for the header, footer
or a company logo and only then to configure the rest of the printable area for the output of
report data. The printable area inside the margins is referred to as the "body of the page".

The report and log layout contain a static layer and a dynamic layer. The static layer contains
the header and footer of a layout for outputting the company name, company logo, project
name, layout name, page number, time, etc. The dynamic layer contains the dynamic objects
for outputting the configuration and Runtime data.
In the static layer, only static and system objects can be inserted. In the dynamic layer, static
and dynamic objects can be inserted.
Objects that are inserted in the dynamic part of a page layout are extended dynamically, if
required. If an object of the type dynamic table is supplied with data, for example, this table is
extended to allow all data in the table to be output. If there are other objects in the dynamic
part of the layout, these are moved accordingly. Objects that are to have a fixed position must
therefore be inserted in the static part of the layout.

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7.3 How to Set Up Reports in the Page Layout

Pages in the Page Layout

Each page layout consists of three pages:
Cover sheet
Report contents
Final page
Cover sheet

The cover sheet is a fixed component of a page layout. It is therefore possible to design
a separate cover sheet for each report.

Report
contents

The structure and contents of the report for output are defined in this part of the page
layout. system objects available for defining the report contents.
The report contents have a static and a dynamic component (configuration
layer).
If necessary, the dynamic part of the contents of the report is spread across the various
subsequent pages at output, since it is not known until the time of output how much
data there is.

Final page

The final page is a fixed part of a page layout. It is therefore possible to design a
separate final page for each report.

The creation and output of the cover sheet and final page are optional. By default, a cover
sheet is output, but a final page is not output. You edit a page layout in the page layout editor.
The cover sheet and final page also have a static and a dynamic component (configuration
layer).

Important:
If you use dynamic objects on the cover sheet or final page, only some of this data may be
included at output. This happens when the data of dynamic objects do not fit on a single page.
The cover sheet and final page only ever consist of a single page and never contain a page
break.

Displaying Layout Properties

You can display the properties of a page layout in WinCC Explorer.
1. If you select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer, the
Layouts and Print Job subentries are displayed.
2. If you select the Layouts entry, all available layouts are displayed in the data window.
3. Select the Properties command from the pop-up menu of the relevant page layout. The
creation date and the data of the last change are displayed. If the layout is opened in the
page layout editor, the message "Currently being edited" is displayed.

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See also
How to Create Reports in Line Layout (Page1435)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)
Introduction to Runtime Documentation (Page1469)
Introduction to Project Documentation (Page1445)

7.4

How to Create Reports in Line Layout

How the Areas of a Line Layout Are Divided Up

Line layouts are divided up geometrically into a number of different areas. The page range
corresponds to the total layout area. The print margins can be defined for this area. It makes
sense to begin by configuring the margins of the printable area for the header and footer or
for a company logo and only then to configure the rest of the printable area for the output of
the log data. The printable area inside the margins is referred to as the "body of the page".

The line layouts contain a static layer and a dynamic layer. The static layer contains the header
and footer for outputting the company name, project name, layout name, etc. as pure text. The
dynamic layer contains a dynamic table for outputting Alarm Logging messages.

How a Page Is Divided Up

Each line layout consists of three areas:
Header
Log contents (table)
Page footer

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Header

The header is a fixed component of a line layout that is output together with every
page. A header in the line layout can consist of up to 10 lines. Graphics cannot be
inserted.

Log
content
(table)

The structure and contents of the log for output are defined in this part of the line layout.
The Alarm Logging selection options and filter criteria for defining the contents of the
log are available to you for alarm output.
The design depends on the width of the individual columns and of the font size set.

Page footer

The footer is a fixed component of a line layout that is output together with every page.
A footer in the line layout can consist of up to 10 lines. Graphics cannot be inserted.

The creation and output of a header and footer are optional. By default, 3 lines each are output
for the header and footer.

Use of the Line Layout

The layout in line format is used exclusively for the message sequence report. You edit it in
the line layout editor. For a line layout there is only one valid print job, which is integrated in
the WinCC on a fixed basis. In order to be output, the message sequence report must be
activated in the startup list of the computer carrying out the logging.

Displaying Layout Properties

You can display the properties of a line layout in WinCC Explorer.
1. If you select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer, the
Layouts and Print Job subentries are displayed.
2. If you select the Layouts entry, all available layouts are displayed in the data window.
3. Choose the Properties command from the pop-up menu of the relevant line layout. The
creation date and the data of the last change are displayed. If the layout is opened in the
line layout editor, the message "Currently being edited" is displayed.

See also
How to Output Online Data with Message Sequence Report (Page1486)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)
How to Create a User-Defined Message Sequence Report (Page1489)

7.5

Print Jobs in WinCC

7.5.1

Print Jobs in WinCC

Introduction
Print jobs in WinCC are of central importance to the output of project and Runtime
documentation. In the layouts you configure the external appearance and data supply for

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output. In the print jobs you configure the output medium, how much is to be printed, the time
at which printing is to start, and other output parameters.
For the output, each layout has to be linked to a print job. Various print jobs are provided in
WinCC for the purpose of project documentation. These system print jobs are already
associated with the corresponding WinCC applications. They can be neither deleted nor
renamed.
You can create new print jobs in WinCC Explorer in order to output new page layouts. A special
print job is provided in WinCC for outputting line layouts. Line layouts can only be output using
this print job. It is not possible to create a new print job for a line layout.

See also
Introduction to Runtime Documentation (Page1469)
Introduction to Project Documentation (Page1445)
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)
How to Change an Existing Print Job (Page1452)
How to Create a New Print Job (Page1450)
Print Job Properties (Page1438)
Defining a Printer (Page1442)
Selecting the Print Range (Page1440)

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7.5.2

Print Job Properties

Introduction
You enter the name, the layout used, and the start parameters on the "General" tab. You also
set additional options that determine what happens when the print job is called on the "General"
tab.

Name of the Print Job

The name of the print job is displayed in the "Name:" field. You can rename a print job you
have just created in the "Name:" field . You cannot rename the system print jobs provided with
the product because they are associated directly with the different applications of WinCC.

Layout
There are line layouts and page layouts. In the "Layout:" selection field you can select the
desired layout for the output.

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Page layout
There are language-neutral and language-dependent line layouts. Further information can be
found in the "Creating Page Layouts" and "Setting Up Multilingual Projects" documents.

Line layout
You can only select a line layout in the "@Report Alarm Logging RT Message sequence" print
job. Line layouts do not contain language-dependent text; thus, no language-dependent layout
files are needed.
Only in this job can the Line Layout for Line Printer option be selected. If the check box is
checked, then the message sequence report is output to the locally installed line printer. If the
check box is not checked, the message sequence report is output to a selectable printer in
page format.
The system print jobs provided and the layouts set in them are for outputting the project
documentation. Do not connect the system print jobs with other layouts, since otherwise the
project documentation will no longer function correctly.

Selection for print job list

The "Graphics Designer" editor contains an application window belonging to the reporting
system, the print job list. If this print job list is integrated into a WinCC picture, then the print
jobs for the configurations are displayed in Runtime and you can start the output. In the print
job list you can set the display of print jobs. The following views are available for selection:
All print jobs
System print jobs only
User-defined jobs only
Print jobs for which Selection for print job list option is selected
The "Selection for print job list" option allows you to compile a list of print jobs that you require
in Runtime.

Displaying the Parameter Dialog

To make Runtime documentation more flexible, a number of log parameters have been
dynamized. This allows you to change log output in Runtime. To do this, select the "Display
Parameter Dialog" option in the "Dialog" field. When the print job is called in Runtime, a
parameter dialog is called, in which you can change the parameters for output in Runtime.
This dialog also allows you to select or change the printer for output. You find more information
and a list of the relevant log objects in chapter Changing Output Options in Runtime.
Note
The system layouts and the self-configured layouts based on the "WinCC Control Runtime
Printprovider" layout have no protocol parameters that can be made dynamic. Thus, you
cannot edit the parameters of these layouts with the parameter dialog.

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Calling the Printer Setup Options

To output logs in a page layout, you can change the printer for output in Runtime. To do this,
select the Printer Setup option in the Dialog field. When the print job is called in Runtime, a
dialog is called for selecting the printer.

Setting Start Parameter

In the Start Parameter area, you can set the start time and an output cycle. This setting is used
primarily to output logs regularly in Runtime documentation (e.g. for shift reports). The start
parameters are not required for project documentation, since project documentation is not
executed cyclically. The following print jobs are indicated by a different symbol in the list of
print jobs in WinCC Explorer:
Print jobs for which start parameters are configured.
Print orders for which a cyclical call is configured.

See also
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)
How to Change an Existing Print Job (Page1452)
How to Create a New Print Job (Page1450)
Defining a Printer (Page1442)
Selecting the Print Range (Page1440)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)

7.5.3

Selecting the Print Range

Introduction
On the Selection tab you can specify how much is to be printed. You can specify a selection
of the page range or a time range for the data to be output.

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Note
If you print out online data using a message sequence log, all settings on the Selection tab
are deactivated.

Selecting a Page Range

In the Page Range area you can specify how much is to be printed at output. You can output
individual pages, a page range, or all pages.

Selecting a Time Range for the Data

You can use the Relative option to specify a relative time range for output (going back from
the print start time). For the relative time range, you have the following time intervals available:
All, Years, Months, Weeks, Days and Hours.
The Absolute option allows you to specify an absolute time range for the data to be output.
Note
If the time range is configured in the layout of a print job, this setting has priority over the
settings in the print job. The selection of a time range is only relevant to Runtime
documentation in Alarm Logging and Tag Logging.
If filter criteria can be set for the selection of the output data, these filter criteria are taken into
account in addition to the settings in the Print Job Properties dialog. Exception: If filter criterion
DATETIME is used, the time range settings in the print job are ignored.
If the @ReportAlarmLoggingRT... print jobs are started via the button in the Alarm Control,
the settings from the layout and the print job are ignored, since the selection of the output
data is transferred from the Alarm Control.

See also
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)
How to Change an Existing Print Job (Page1452)
How to Create a New Print Job (Page1450)
Defining a Printer (Page1442)
Print Job Properties (Page1438)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)

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7.5.4

Defining a Printer

Introduction
On the Printer Setup tab you can specify the printer or printers for output. You can use the lists
in the Printer Priorities area to specify the order in which they are to be used. You also specify
the settings for the print buffer and for output to a file here.

Output to a Printer
On the Printer Setup tab you can specify the printer or printers for output. The printers are
arranged in order of priority. Reports and logs are output to the printer set under 1.). If this
printer fails, they are automatically output to the printer set under 2.). The same procedure
applies to a third printer. If no printer is found that is ready for operation, the print data is saved
to a file on the hard disk. The files are stored in the project directory in the PRT_OUT folder.

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In the event of a printer failure, the operating system outputs an error message. In this case,
you have the following options:
1. Ignoring error message (Recommended)
Once printer is operational again, the pending messages (print jobs still in the spooler) will
be printed automatically.
2. Repeat
If the Repeat button is clicked, the operating system tries to output the print jobs in the
spooler. This is only useful if the printer is ready for operation.
3. Cancel
If the Cancel button is clicked, the print job causing the error will be deleted. The print data
is thus lost. The operating system then tries to print the next print job in the spooler. The
print data is thus lost. The operating system then tries to print the next print job in the spooler.
Note
It is strongly recommended that you acknowledge the message from the operating system
by clicking the Ignore button. If you click the Cancel button, all pending print jobs of the
printer that has failed are lost.
In the event of a fault affecting the line printer for the message sequence report, you can
disable the printer by clicking Cancel. You may have to restart the WinCC project to enable
the printer again.
The time taken to detect a printer failure depends on the configured timeout setting for
the printer connection. The timeout can be set by means of the properties for the printer
connection in the operating system.

Two substitute printers can also be configured for the line-based message sequence report.
The line printers must be connected to and installed on the computer carrying out the logging.
The switchover is takes place as described above. If no printer is found that is ready for
operation, a WinCC dialog is displayed in addition to the operating system message. The dialog
provides information on the status of the print job and outputs the printer's fault. The message
sequence report can be switched off in this dialog. If the message sequence report is switched
off in this dialog, it is switched on again automatically as soon as one of the configured printers
is ready for operation again.

Output to a File
If you like, you can output the reports and logs to a file. You find more information in the chapter
Creating a New Print Job.
Note
If you print a message sequence log in line layout, the output as a file is deactivated.

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Setting a Minimum Value for Disk Space

For log output there is a buffer area for output to a printer and a buffer area for output to a file.
On the Printer Setup tab you can configure two limit values for the free space on a disk for
each buffer area. If the limit values are violated, the following actions are triggered:
Limit value

Triggered Action

Generate
warnings

If the free disk space on the hard disk being used is below the value set here, an
entry is created in the WinCC_SStart_01.log file. If Runtime is activated, a system
message is generated. The message informs you about the imminent resource
bottleneck.

Discard trigger for

logging

If the free disk space on the hard disk being used falls under the value set here,
log triggering is rejected. In addition, an entry is created in the
WinCC_SStart_01.log file. If Runtime is activated, a system message is generated
that brings your attention to the lost log.

Recommendations and Limiting Conditions

The timeouts for the printers should be kept low (approx. 10 seconds).
Only one printer can be installed on each LPT port.
When a computer is used for the line-based message sequence report, the substitute printer
must be configured in the print job of the message sequence report.
Mixed use of line- and page-based message sequence reports is not supported. The
substitute printers must also be line printers.

Effect of the Printer Driver

When a report or a log is printed, the printout can be affected by the properties of the printer
driver used. If you have just installed a printer, it is advisable to check the first few printouts in
the preview.

Behavior and Time Requirements for Print Jobs

If there is a problem communicating with a WinCC component, a print job may hang at the
stage of reading data from the application, and it may not be possible for the user to cancel it.
A hung print job that is to print Runtime data is canceled after a waiting time of 30 minutes.
Data preparation for project documentation can take considerably longer. Project
documentation is therefore not canceled automatically.
If a print job stays in the printer spooler for longer than the specified time when there is an
error (no paper, for example), the output is automatically redirected to the next printer in
accordance with the specified printer priorities. The basic setting for the waiting time is 5
minutes. If there is no substitute printer configured or ready, the output is redirected to a file.
The file is stored in the project directory under Prt_Out$_<Jobname><DateTime>.
If a print job remains in the print spooler for longer than 13 minutes without its status changing,
it is assigned an error status. Automatic print redirection is then initiated after a further 5
minutes.

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See also
How to Change an Existing Print Job (Page1452)
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)
How to Create a New Print Job (Page1450)
Selecting the Print Range (Page1440)
Print Job Properties (Page1438)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)

7.6

Project Documentation

7.6.1

Introduction to Project Documentation

Introduction
In order to create project documentation in WinCC, you can start the output of the reports from
within the various WinCC editors. For this purpose, the editors are associated with print jobs,
which call a predefined layout for output. Default parameters for output are already set in the
predefined layouts. You find more information on the output parameters in the the project
documentation of the various WinCC components.

Components from Which Project Documentation Can Be Called

You can start project documentation directly from the following components of WinCC:
WinCC Explorer
Graphics Designer
Alarm Logging
Tag Logging
Global Scripts
Text Library
User Administrator
User Archives
Time Synchronization
Horn Editor
Picture Tree Manager
Lifebeat Monitoring
OS Project Editor

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The reports for project documentation are output by the user. On the File menu of the various
WinCC components you find the following commands:
Menu Command

Function

Special Features

Print Project
Documentation

Prints a report immediately. The layout

that is set in the print job is used. The
report is output to the printer/file that is
set in the Print Job Properties dialog.

A printer selection dialog is not

displayed; printing starts
immediately. Depending on the size
of the project, this process can take
some time. The process cannot be
canceled while the data is being read
from the system.

View Project
Documentation

Opens a preview of the report to be

output.

Depending on the size of the project,

this process can take some time. The
process cannot be canceled while
the data is being read from the
system.

Project
Documentation
Setup...

Opens the Print Job Properties dialog.

In this dialog you can specify the layout
to be used, the printer or file to which
the reort is to be output, and the pages
to be printed.

You find more information in chapters

Print Jobs in WinCC and Changing
an Existing Print Job.

See also
How to Create a New Print Job (Page1450)
How to Change an Existing Print Job (Page1452)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)
How to Set Up Reports in the Page Layout (Page1433)

7.6.2

How to Output Project Documentation

Introduction
The basic procedure for outputting project documentation is described below. You can use the
page layouts provided with the product for project documentation.

Procedure
In the simplest case you use WinCC's defaults. If you want to check the output before printout,
choose the View Project Documentation menu command, as described below.

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1. In WinCC Explorer, open the desired WinCC component via the menu bar or the pop-up
menu in the navigation window.
2. In the component you have started, choose the Print Project Documentation command from
the File menu.

Alternative Operation
If the print job used is known, project documentation can be started in WinCC Explorer by
starting the corresponding print job directly.
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Job entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the Print Jobs entry in the file window. All existing print jobs are displayed in
the file window.
3. Open the pop-up menu of the desired print job, and choose the Print the Print Job command.

Note
By default, a printer selection dialog is not displayed; printing starts immediately. Depending
on the size of the project, this process can take some time. The process cannot be canceled
while the data is being read from the system.
In some editors the output of project documentation from the application differs from the
output of project documentation that is started directly via the print job in WinCC Explorer.
You find more information on this in chapters Project Documentation... for the various WinCC
editors.

Changing the Output Options

To change the printer or file for output, or to output a particular page range, you have to change
the settings in the Print Job Properties dialog. To do this, choose the Project Documentation
Setup... command from the File menu in the relevant editor. You find more information on this
in chapter Changing an Existing Print Job.
To make changes to the contents of a report, you can edit or create page layouts and call them
in a print job. This allows you to design project documentation to suit your requirements. You
find more information on this in chapter Changing Predefined Layouts.

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See also
System Layouts for Project Documentation (Page1510)
How to Change an Existing Print Job (Page1452)
Project Documentation in the Component List Editor (Page1468)
Project Documentation in the OS Project Editor (Page1467)
Project Documentation in Lifebeat Monitoring (Page1467)
Project Documentation in the Picture Tree Manager (Page1466)
Project Documentation in the Audio Alarm Editor (Page1465)
Project Documentation in the Time Synchronization Editor (Page1464)
Project Documentation in the User Administrator (Page1463)
Project Documentation in the Text Library (Page1462)
Project Documentation in Global Script (Page1460)
Project Documentation in Tag Logging (Page1459)
Project Documentation in Alarm Logging (Page1457)
Project Documentation in the Graphics Designer (Page1455)
Project Documentation in the WinCC Explorer (Page1454)

7.6.3

How to Open a Project Documentation Preview

Introduction
You can open project documentation reports in a preview. This enables you to check that the
report meets your requirements before you print it.

Procedure
1. In WinCC Explorer, open the desired WinCC component via the menu bar or the pop-up
menu in the navigation window.
2. In the component you have started, choose the View Project Documentation command
from the File menu. The preview is opened.

Alternative Operation
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Job entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the Print Jobs entry in the file window. All existing print jobs are displayed in
the file window.
3. Open the pop-up menu of the desired print job, and choose the Preview Print Job command.
The preview is opened.

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Printing from the Preview

In the preview window you can print the report directly by clicking the Print... button. The print
settings from the associated print job are used.

See also
Project Documentation in the Text Library (Page1462)
System Layouts for Project Documentation (Page1510)
Project Documentation in the Component List Editor (Page1468)
Project Documentation in the OS Project Editor (Page1467)
Project Documentation in Lifebeat Monitoring (Page1467)
Project Documentation in the Picture Tree Manager (Page1466)
Project Documentation in the Audio Alarm Editor (Page1465)
Project Documentation in the Time Synchronization Editor (Page1464)
Project Documentation in the User Administrator (Page1463)
Project Documentation in Global Script (Page1460)
Project Documentation in Tag Logging (Page1459)
Project Documentation in Alarm Logging (Page1457)
Project Documentation in the Graphics Designer (Page1455)
Project Documentation in the WinCC Explorer (Page1454)

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7.6.4

How to Create a New Print Job

Introduction
In order to output a report to a printer or a file, the page layout used must be associated with
a print job. The options for output are specified in the print job.

Requirements
You must have specified a page layout that can output the desired data. This can be a
predefined WinCC layout or a layout you have created or edited yourself in which the desired
objects are integrated for data output.

Procedure
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The
"Layouts" and "Print Job" entries are displayed in the data window.
2. Select the Print Jobs entry. Choose the New Print Job command from the pop-up menu of
the print job. A new print job called "Print Job001" is created. The number in the print job
name is incremented each time a new print job is created. After the print job is created, all
existing print jobs are displayed in the data window.

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3. Select the newly created print job in the file window, and use the pop-up menu to open the
"Print Job Properties" dialog.
4. In input field "Name:" You can rename the print job. When you click "OK" to apply the
change, the print job is renamed and the previous name overwritten.
5. Select "Layout:" Select the page layout using the selection field.
The layouts are provided with a symbol:
Icon

Description
Layout is language-dependent.
Layout files exist in all runtime languages. No language-neutral layout file exists.
Layout is language-dependent.
Layout files do not exist in all runtime languages. You can use the layout. If you change
to a runtime language, for which there is no layout file available, the English layout file
is used.
The layout is language-neutral. In Runtime, the language-neutral layout is always
printed, regardless of whether there are also language-specific layout files for the
selected layout.

1. Change to the "Printer Setup" tab, and select output to a printer or a file. It is also possible
to select both output types at the same time.
2. If you select output to a file, you have to specify a folder name in the Location text box. The
folder PRT_OUT is created in the project path of the WinCC project. A folder with the name
you entered is created in this folder, and a creation date and time are added to the folder
name. When output is started, the report is saved in this folder page by page in the form
of emf files.
3. Click the OK button to apply the settings.
4. Select the print job in the file window, and use the pop-up menu to start output.

Note
If you select output to a file, the data is saved in the form of EMF files. A documentation viewer
is provided for these files with the WinCC Smart Tools.

Output options
On the Selection tab you can specify under Page Range whether you want to output all or only
some of the pages.

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Note
The output type of the log is indicated in the file window of WinCC Explorer in the Type column
by the abbreviation (F), (F, P), or (P). (F) stands for output to a file, and (P) output to a printer.
If (F, P) is displayed, the log is output both to a file and a printer.
If a start time is configured in a print job, this print job is shown with the symbol in WinCC
Explorer.
If a cycle is configured in a print job, this print job is shown with the symbol in WinCC Explorer.

7.6.5

How to Change an Existing Print Job

Introduction
The layouts provided with WinCC are already associated with print jobs. The print jobs have
basic settings. The output options of these print jobs can be changed.
If a print job is renamed, the original print job is overwritten. Changes therefore cannot be
undone. A print job cannot be copied. It is therefore advisable to create a new print job to
prevent any unwanted changes being made to a system print job.

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Procedure
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Jobs entries are displayed in the data window.
2. Double-click the "Print Job" entry in the data window. All existing print jobs are displayed
in the data window. Choose the Properties command from the pop-up menu of the desired
print job. The Print Job Properties dialog is displayed.
3. In the Name text box you can change the name of the print job. When you click OK to apply
the change, the print job is renamed and the previous name overwritten.
4. On the General tab, select the desired layout under Layout by using the selection dialog.
5. Change to the Printer Setup tab, and select output to a printer or a file. It is also possible
to select both output types at the same time.
6. If you select output to a file, you have to specify a folder name in the Location text box. The
folder PRT_OUT is created in the project path of the WinCC project. A folder with the name
you entered is created in this folder, and a creation date and time are added to the folder
name. When output is started, the report is saved in this folder page by page in the form
of emf files.
7. Click the OK button to apply the settings.
8. Select the print job in the file window, and use the pop-up menu to start output.
To change the print job properties for project documentation, you can use the File/Project
Documentation Setup... command in the editor to call the integrated print job directly.
Note
If you select output to a file, the data is saved in the form of EMF files. A documentation viewer
is provided for these files with the WinCC Smart Tools.

Output options
On the Selection tab you can specify under Page Range whether you want to output all or only
some of the pages.
On the Printer Setup tab you can specify a number of printers for output. If the first printer
cannot be reached, the second printer is used. If this cannot be reached either, the third printer
is used.

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7.6.6

Project Documentation in the WinCC Explorer

Introduction
WinCC Explorer is prepared for project documentation. The following commands are available
in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in WinCC Explorer:
Object

Output options

Function

Computer

Serves to output the name of the computer whose

data is to be documented.

Tags

Selection of tags
Selection of tag groups
Selection of tag
parameters
Format

Serves to output tags, tag groups, and tag

parameters from the tag management
system.
Formats the tag list.

Connections

Selection of connections in a
selection dialog.

Serves to output the configured connections to

subordinate controllers.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects Contained

@Documentation Control Center

@mcpcs.RPL

Computers, tags, connections

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

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7.6.7

Project Documentation in the Graphics Designer

Introduction
Graphics Designer is prepared for project documentation. The following commands are
available in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation Setup...
The print jobs for project documentation can be started from the menu of the WinCC component
or directly in WinCC Explorer. However, there is an important difference to note in the case of
Graphics Designer project documentation. When a print job is started in Graphics Designer,
the data of the open picture are output. If the print job is started in WinCC Explorer, the data
of all Graphics Designer pictures in the project are output. This applies to all documentable
parameters of Graphics Designer pictures.

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in Graphics Designer:

Actions in Graphics Designer

Object

Output options

Function

Info

The object is available

for:
- Actions on the property
- Actions on the object

Serves to output general

information such as the picture
name, object name, and property
name.

Trigger description

The object is available

for:
- Actions on the property

Serves to output the trigger type.

Source text

The object is available

Serves to output the source text of
for:
an action.
- Actions on the property
- Actions on the object

Graphics Designer Picture Data

Object

Output options

Function

General display

Selecting Elements:
All available elements
The selected element

Serves to output the view of a

Graphics Designer picture in a
report.

Picture statistics

Selection of statistics data for

the picture

Serves to output statistics data on

a Graphics Designer picture.

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Object

Output options

Function

Attributes

Selection of attributes
Selection of table data

Serves to output the attributes of a

Graphics Designer picture

Embedded objects

Object selection

Serves to output the embedded

objects in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Actions

Selection of action types

Serves to output the actions in a

Graphics Designer picture.

Trigger

Object selection
Selection of actions

Serves to output the triggers for the

actions in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Source text

Selection of actions

Serves to output the source text of

actions in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Direct connections

Selecting Elements:
All available elements
The selected element

Serves to output the direct

connections in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Object

Output options

Function

Object statistics

Object selection
Selection of statistics on the
object

Serves to output statistics data on

objects in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Attributes

Object selection
Selection of attributes
Selection of table data

Serves to output the attributes of

objects in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Actions

Object selection
Selection of actions

Serves to output the actions on

objects in a Graphics Designer
picture.

Trigger

Object selection
Selection of actions

Serves to output the triggers for the

actions on objects in a Graphics
Designer picture.

Source text

Object selection
Selection of actions

Serves to output the source text of

actions for the selected objects.

Direct connection

Object selection

Serves to output the direct

connections of objects

Graphics Designer Object Data

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Points to Note About Object Data Output

Control-Object slider:
The following applies to the PictureBack and PictureThumb attributes in project
documentation:
If there is no picture entered, a hyphen (-) is output in the project documentation.
If a picture is entered, "none" is output.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

Predefined page layouts and print jobs are provided with WinCC for project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Graphics
Designer Dynamics

@PDLPicDyn.RPL

Nested layout for outputting the

dynamization data of a Graphics
Designer picture.

@Documentation Graphics
Designer Overview

@PDLPicOvr.RPL

Picture statistics, general display.

@Documentation Graphics
Designer

@PDLPic.RPL

Nested layout for outputting the

general display, statistics data,
objects in the picture, picture
attributes, actions on the picture,
direct connections to the picture,
object statistics, attributes of the
objects, actions on the objects, and
direct connections to objects. The
data is output on a separate page
for each picture.

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

7.6.8

Project Documentation in Alarm Logging

Introduction
The Alarm Logging editor is prepared for project documentation. The following commands are
available in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation Setup...
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Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Alarm Logging editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Message classes -

Serves to output the existing message classes with

their properties.

Single messages Selection of single

messages

Serves to output the selected single messages with

their properties.

Archives

Serves to output the existing message archives with

their properties.

Data of the Message Blocks:

Object

Output options

Function

System Blocks

Serves to output the existing system blocks with their

properties.

User text blocks

Serves to output the existing user text blocks with their

properties.

Process value
blocks

Serves to output the existing process value blocks with their

properties.

Data of the Group Messages

Object

Output options

Function

Message
class

Serves to output the group messages of message classes.

User-defined

Serves to output user-defined group messages.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.

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Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Alarm
Logging

@AlgCS.RPL

Message blocks, message classes, single messages,

group messages, archives, and logs

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Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects. You find a description of the selection of single messages in chapter
Changing Output Options for Single Messages from Alarm Logging CS.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

7.6.9

Project Documentation in Tag Logging

Introduction
The Tag Logging editor is prepared for project documentation. The following commands are
available in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation - Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Tag Logging editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Timers

Serves to output the existing timers with their properties.

Data of the Archives

Object

Output options

Function

Process value archive

Archive names
Process value
archive data

Serves to output the configuration data of process

value archives

Compressed archive

Archive names
Process value
archive data

Serves to output the configuration data of

compressed archives

Process value archive

tag

Tag
Tag data

Serves to output configuration data of the selected

process value archive tags

Compressed archive
tag

Tag
Tag data

Serves to output configuration data of the selected

compressed archive tags

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Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Tag
Logging

@tlgcs.RPL

Message blocks, message classes, single messages,

group messages, archives, and logs

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

7.6.10

Project Documentation in Global Script

Introduction
There are two editors available in Global Script, the C editor and the VBS editor. Both of these
editors are prepared for project documentation. If you open an action, a function, or a module
in one of these editors, the following commands are available to you in the File menu of the
editor:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation - Setup...
The output applies to the open function, action, or module.
Documentation of all actions, project functions, and standard functions can be output by means
of three of the print jobs listed below. The output is started in WinCC Explorer.
The same predefined layouts are used to output the project documentation in the C editor and
the VBS editor. The identifier Language: C Script or Language: VB Script is output in the
information box at output. This indicates which of the two editors the documentation comes
from.
Note
The documentation of all actions, functions, and modules can be very extensive. To check
the number of pages, open the print preview of the print job, and check the page number
there (format: page 1 of x).

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Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Global Script editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Info

The object is available

for:
- Actions
- Standard functions
- Project functions
- Standard modules
- Project modules

Serves to output general

information such as who it was
created/changed by, the creation
date, data of change, version, and
a comment.

Trigger description

The object is available

for:
- Actions

Serves to output the trigger type.

Source text

The object is available

for:
- Actions
- Standard functions
- Project functions
- Standard modules
- Project modules

Serves to output the source text of

an action/function or a module.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

Predefined page layouts and print jobs are provided with WinCC for project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Global Script

Project Function

@GSC_RPFC.RPL

Nested layout for outputting the

information and source text of the
project functions. Output is started
in WinCC Explorer.

@Documentation Global Script

Standard Function

@GSC_RSFC.RPL

Nested layout for outputting the

information and source text of the
standard functions. Output is
started in WinCC Explorer.

@Internal Global Script Action

@GSC_ACT.RPL

Layout for outputting information, a

trigger description and the source
text for an action open in the C
editor or VBS editor or a module
open in the VBS editor.

@Internal Global Script Project

Function

@GSC_PFC.RPL

Layout for outputting information

and the source text for a project
function open in the Global Script
editor.

@internal Global Script

Standard Function

@GSC_SFC.RPL

Layout for outputting information

and the source text for a standard
function open in the Global Script
editor.

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Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

7.6.11

Project Documentation in the Text Library

Introduction
The Text Library is prepared for project documentation. The following commands are available
in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation - Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Text Library:
Object

Output options

Function

General data

Serves to output the configuration data of

the Text Library.

Text table

Language selection for selecting the

languages for output

Serves to output the texts from the Text

Library.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

Predefined page layouts and print jobs are provided with WinCC for project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Text @Textlibrary.RPL General data and text table. The texts of the different
Library
languages are output line by line one after the other.

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

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See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

7.6.12

Project Documentation in the User Administrator

Introduction
The User Administrator editor is prepared for project documentation. The following commands
are available in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation
View Project Documentation
Project Documentation - Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the User Administrator editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Groups

Serves to output the user groups from the User Administrator.

functions

Serves to output the texts from the configured functions from the User
Administrator.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation User Administration

@UACS.RPL

Groups and functions

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

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7.6.13

Project Documentation in the Time Synchronization Editor

Introduction
The Time Synchronization editor is prepared for project documentation. The following buttons
are available in the editor's dialog:
Printing
Preview
Setup

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Time Synchronization editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Devices

Serves to output the devices and services used.

General

Serves to output the general settings in the Time Synchronization editor.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Time
Synchronization

@TimeSync(landscape).R
PL

HornTags, general settings, horn signals,

and additional reset tags.

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

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7.6.14

Project Documentation in the Audio Alarm Editor

Introduction
The audio alarm editor is prepared for project documentation. The following buttons are
available in the editor's dialog:
Project documentation
Printing
Preview
Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Audi Alarm Editor:
Object

Output options

Function

HornTags

Serves to output the assignment of tag and message class.

General settings

Serves to output the general settings in the Audio Alarm

Editor.

Horn signals

Serves to output the assignment of signals or signal modules

to tags.

Additional reset tags -

Serves to output multiple acknowledgment via additional

acknowledgment tags.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation
Horn

@Horn(landscape).RP
L

HornTags, general settings, horn signals, and

additional reset tags.

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

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7.6.15

Project Documentation in the Picture Tree Manager

Introduction
The Picture Tree Manager is prepared for project documentation. The following commands
are available in the File menu for this purpose:
Print Project Documentation Hierarchy
View Project Documentation Hierarchy
Setup Project Documentation Hierarchy...
Print Project Documentation Group display
View Project Documentation Group Display
Project Documentation Group Display Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in Picture Tree Manager:
Object

Output options

Function

PTN table

Serves to output the configured container hierarchy and

the pictures it contains.

Group displays table

Serves to output the configuration data of the Group

Display.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

Predefined page layouts and print jobs are provided with WinCC for project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Picture Tree Manager

@ptmcs.RPL

Picture Tree Manager table

@Documentation Signal Collection

@SCollect.RPL

Group displays table

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

See also
How to Output Project Documentation (Page1446)

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7.6.16

Project Documentation in Lifebeat Monitoring

Introduction
The Lifebeat Monitoring editor is prepared for project documentation. The following commands
are available on the File menu for this purpose:
Printing
View
Printer Setup...

Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Lifebeat Monitoring editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Lifebeat
Monitoring
table

Serves to output the configuration data from Lifebeat Monitoring.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation Lifebeat Monitoring

@lbmcs.RPL

Lifebeat Monitoring table

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

7.6.17

Project Documentation in the OS Project Editor

Introduction
The OS Project Editor is prepared for project documentation. The following buttons are
available for it on the General tab:
Printing
View
Printer Setup...

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Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the OS Project Editor:
Object

Output options

Function

ProjectEditor table

Serves to output the coordinate settings of the monitor,

overview area, working area, and key area.

TopField table

Serves to output the settings for the display of circular

pictures in the Runtime window.

TopfieldConfig2
table

Serves to output the settings for the display of group pictures

and general pictures in the Runtime window.

TopfieldConfig3
table

Serves to output the settings for the display of trend groups

in the Runtime window.

AlarmConfig table

Serves to output the settings for the display of the small alarm
window.

AreaButton table

Serves to output the settings for the buttons for switching

between areas.

HiddenArea table

Serves to output the settings for hidden areas.

RestData table

Serves to output the general settings in the OS Project Editor.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation OS
Projecteditor

@Projecteditor.RP
L

ProjectEditor table, TopField table, TopfieldConfig2

table, TopfieldConfig3 table, AlarmConfig table,
AreaButton table, HiddenArea table, and RestData table.

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

7.6.18

Project Documentation in the Component List Editor

Introduction
The Component List Editor is prepared for project documentation. The following commands
are available in the File menu for this purpose:
Project Documentation Setup...
View Project Documentation
Print Project Documentation

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Data for Output

The following data are available for project documentation in the Component List Editor:
Object

Output options

Function

Attribute table

Serves to output information on the connections between internal

IDs and texts for display in the Component List Editor.

Measuring
point table

Serves to output the type, entry point picture (Loop In Alarm),

and area assignments of a component and their designations.

Elements of Standard Project Documentation

A predefined page layout and a print job are supplied with for the project documentation.
Print job

Layout used

Objects contained

@Documentation LTO
Component List

@LTO
Bausteinliste(landscape).RPL

Attribute table, measuring point

table

Changing the Output Options

You find more information on how to create a report in chapters Working with Layouts and
Working with Objects.

7.7

Runtime Documentation

7.7.1

Introduction to Runtime Documentation

Introduction
A number of options are available for logging Runtime data in WinCC. The WinCC control for
displaying Runtime data have an interface for the output of the reports of the Runtime data.
You can also output Runtime data outside of the WinCC controls.

Overview
The following WinCC controls have a configurable interface for the log output:
WinCC OnlineTableControl
WinCC OnlineTrendControl
WinCC FunctionTrendControl
WinCC RulerControl

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WinCC AlarmControl
WinCC UserArchiveTableControl
Note
As of WinCC V7, the "Print message report" button is no longer available in the
AlarmControl.
For the independent logging of Runtime data, you must configure the corresponding layouts
in Reports Designer and connect them with a print job.
For the "WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider" layout, you configure only the basic properties
of the layout in Report Designer. The report parameters for the output are determined by
properties of the WinCC control and cannot be made dynamic. For all other layouts of the
Runtime documentation, you configure the properties of the layout in Report Designer and the
static and dynamic report parameters for the layout.
You specify scheduling and how much is to be printed in the print job associated with the layout.
A layout can be used by several print jobs, e.g. an output of different media or a different time
selection of the data.
The print jobs can be called in different ways. The following calls are configurable:
Call via a configurable option in one of the aforementioned WinCC controls
Call via a configurable button in a WinCC picture
Call via the Print Job List application window in a WinCC picture
Call via a configured cycle in the print job
Call via configured start parameters in the print job
Call via a script function

Components for Runtime Documentation

You can document Runtime data from the following components of WinCC:

WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider

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Report object

Function

Table

The entire contents of the table of the control is output in the table. Output of the
report object depends on the display of the control in Runtime and must be initiated
using the button in the control. You cannot dynamize report parameters. The report
object is not available for the WinCC OnlineTrendControl and WinCC
FunctionTrendControl.

Text

In addition to the "Table" and "Picture" report objects, you can use report object "Text"
to output the window caption, the name and the picture name of the control.

Picture

The current control display is output in the picture. Output of the report object
depends on the display of the control in Runtime and must be initiated using the
button in the control. You cannot dynamize report parameters.

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Note
The Runtime data of a WinCC RulerControl and of an interconnected WinCC control can be
output in a single report. Insert two corresponding report objects of "WinCC Control Runtime
Printprovider" in the page layout, e.g. a "picture" for OnlineTrendControl and a "table" for
RulerControl. Activate the "WinCC RulerControl" option in the "Connect" tab of the properties
dialog for the object properties of the report object of the RulerControl.

WinCC Online Table Control

Report object

Function

Table

The table contains the contents of the tags from the process value archives and
compressed archives. You configure the static and dynamic parameters of the
control for the output in Reports Designer.

WinCC Online Trend Control

Report object

Function

Picture

The picture outputs the the content of the tags of process value archives and
compressed archives in trend format. Configure the output of static and dynamic
parameters of the controls in the Reports Designer.

WinCC Function Trend Control

Report object

Function

Picture

The picture shows the process values as a function of another tag from process value
archives, compressed archives or user archives in trend format. You configure the
static and dynamic parameters of the control for the output in Reports Designer.

WinCC Alarm Control

Report object

Function

Table

The table is used for the output of message lists. In contrast to the "message report"
and "archive report" report objects, all message lists can be accessed. You configure
the static and dynamic parameters of the control for the output in Reports Designer.

User archive runtime

Report object

Function

Table

The table contains the contents of the user archives.

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Alarm Logging Runtime

Report object

Function

Message Report

The message report outputs all messages in the current message list in Alarm
Logging.

Archive report

The archive log serves to output messages that are stored in the message archive.

Further Runtime Documentation Options

Logging of CSV Files
Report object

Function

CSV provider
table

The CSV provider table logs data from a file in CSV format. The data is output in
tabular form.

CSV provider
trend

The CSV provider trend logs data from a file in CSV format. The data is output in
the form of a trend.

Logging Data by Means of ODBC

Report object

Function

ODBC database field

Serves to output data from a field of a data source by means of ODBC. The
data is output as text.

ODBC database table Serves to output data from a table of a data source by means of ODBC. The
data is output in tabular form.

Logging of Own COM Servers

Report object

Function

COM server

The COM server object allows you to integrate your own COM object in WinCC and
log the data from this object. The COM object can be of the type text, table, or picture.

Output of a Hard Copy

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Report object

Function

Hard copy

Serves to output the current contents of the screen, a subarea of it, or a currently
selected picture window.

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A hard copy can also be output with the PrintScreen application. You find more information in
chapter How to Output a Hard Copy.

Dynamic log parameters

Dynamic log parameters were introduced in WinCC to enable the logging of Runtime data to
be adjusted before output, for e.g. through scripts. In addition to a configured value, you specify
WinCC tags, from which the parameters for the output are taken in Runtime.
To change the parameters for output immediately before starting printing, a dialog for changing
the log parameter can be displayed. The display of this dialog can be controlled by the relevant
print job. The Configuration Dialog option must be set in the Dialog field on the General tab.

See also
How to Create Layouts for Runtime Documentation (Page1473)
How to Create Reports in Line Layout (Page1435)
How to Set Up Reports in the Page Layout (Page1433)

7.7.2

How to Create Layouts for Runtime Documentation

Introduction
For Runtime documentation, new layouts have to be created or predefined layouts adapted to
suit the project before they are used. You specify in the layout which data are to be logged in
Runtime. You configure the output format and specify whether the output can be changed
before printing is started.
We recommend saving an existing layout with a new name first and only then editing the layout.
If you do this, you can always fall back on the layouts provided with WinCC if you need to.
The system layouts and system print jobs provided with WinCC are used by the WinCC
components when logging is started. For this reason, you can neither delete nor rename
system layouts and system print jobs. Changes to the dynamic part of system layouts affect
logging in Runtime. The system layouts can be identified by the prefix "@" in the layout name.

Editing a Layout
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Job entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the "Layouts" entry in the file window. All existing layouts are displayed in the
file window.
3. Select the layout according to the desired output. Double-click to use the pop-up menu to
open the layout. The page layout editor is opened to allow you to edit the layout. You find
a list of the layouts provided for Runtime documentation in the appendix.
4. Select the first report object in the open layout and open the object properties dialog by
double-clicking it or using the pop-up menu.

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5. In the Object Properties dialog, select the Connect tab and then the log object in the left
section of the tab. The list of things you can do is displayed on the right.
6. Use the "WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider" layout in WinCC V7 or higher. The output
of the report object depends on the layout of the control in Runtime. Define the control
elements for the "Table" and "Picture" report objects to be excluded from printing in the
"Connect" tab. Activate the "WinCC RulerControl" option to output a RulerControl by means
of the report object.
7. Open the parameterization dialog or the dynamization dialog if using report objects versions
prior to WinCC V7. Specify the settings for the output here. You find a description of the
possible output options for the various objects in chapter Working with Objects for Runtime
Documentation.
8. Select the next log object in the layout, and repeat steps 4 to 7.
9. If required, change the external appearance of the object by changing the attribute values
on the Properties tab of the Object Properties window.
10.Save the changes and close the layout.
11.Then edit the associated print job.
Please also note the behavior of dynamic tables at output. You find more information on this
in chapter Changing Predefined Layouts.

Alternative Procedure
You can also create new layouts for Runtime documentation and use them for logging. A new
layout must be associated with a print job for output. You can use an existing print job or create
a new one. The system print jobs provided are used for the log functions integrated in WinCC.
It is thus only worthwhile using a system print job if you want to use a user-defined layout
instead of the system layout set there.

See also
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
How to create print jobs for the Runtime documentation (Page1474)
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)
Changing Predefined Layouts (Page1554)

7.7.3

How to create print jobs for the Runtime documentation

Introduction
Predefined print jobs are provided with WinCC for logging Runtime data. These system print
jobs are used by various WinCC components for Runtime documentation. The system print
jobs can therefore be neither deleted nor renamed. When you use system print jobs for Runtime
documentation, you can specify output options, how much is to be printed, and the layout to
be used. Additional information can be found in the chapter "Print Jobs in WinCC".

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For user-defined Runtime documentation you can create new print jobs and configure their
calls. In this way, you can output Runtime data without negatively affecting the preset log
functions.

Procedure
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Jobs entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the Print Jobs entry in the data window. All existing print jobs are displayed in
the data window. Choose the Properties command from the pop-up menu of the desired
print job. The Print Job Properties dialog is displayed. You find a list of the print jobs provided
for Runtime documentation in the appendix.

3. Use the three tabs in the dialog to set the parameters of the print job. Additional information
can be found in the chapter "Print Jobs in WinCC".
4. To create a new print job, select the Print Jobs entry in the navigation window of WinCC
Explorer, and choose the New Print Job command from the pop-up menu. A new print job
is created with a consecutive number in its name. To assign parameters, proceed as
described above.

Online Logs for a Client Without Project

If you wish to output Runtime logs in a distributed system using a client without its own project,
you must activate the option Report Runtime in the startup list of this client.

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In addition, you must set the parameter /CLIENT for Report Runtime. In the startup list, select
the application Report Runtime and click the Edit... button. Add the necessary parameters in
the Parameters entry field.
If cyclic print jobs are supposed to be excluded from the output, add the /NO_CYCLE parameter
to the Parameters entry fields.

See also
Reporting Messages in Runtime (Page1484)
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources (Page1492)
Reporting Process Values in Runtime (Page1490)
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)
How to Output Online Data with Message Sequence Report (Page1486)

7.7.4

How to Change Output Options in Runtime

Introduction
To make Runtime documentation more flexible, a number of log parameters can be dynamized.
This allows you to change log output in Runtime. There are two different ways to change these
log parameters.
When configuring a layout for Runtime documentation, the parameters can be
interconnected with WinCC tags for report objects of controls created in a version older
than WinCC V7. For a print order, the parameters that can be dynamized are provided with
the current values of the WinCC tag during runtime. Values are supplied to the WinCC tags
by means of appropriate configuration (e.g. by means of input/output fields in a WinCC
picture, configurable options with fixed, stored values, or process-controlled actions, or they
are supplied by other WinCC applications). An overview of the Runtime documentation
parameters that can be dynamized is included in chapter Dynamizable Parameters for
Runtime Documentation.
During configuration of a print job, you can set a parameter dialog in the Dialog field. When
the print job starts, a dialog listing the dynamic log elements is displayed. The log elements
are displayed with all dynamizable parameters. If you double-click a parameter, the
corresponding configuration dialog is displayed. The settings for the current output can be
changed in the input fields of the configuration dialog. Any WinCC tags which were
configured in a configuration dialog for report objects of a control created in a version older
than WinCC V7 are read. The values are entered in the corresponding fields of the static
parameters. The tag fields themselves are deactivated and cannot be changed in Runtime.
The printer for output can be changed in Runtime by means of the Printer Setup option.
During configuration of a print job, you can select the Printer Setup dialog in the Dialog field.
When the print job starts, a dialog is displayed in which you can select the printer for output.

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Assigning dynamic properties to report parameters of report objects for WinCC Controls created in a
version older than WinCC V7
Apart from the static parameterization by means of the tabs of the WinCC Controls, you have
the option to dynamize a number of object properties of the WinCC Controls.
1. Open the desired layout in the page layout editor and call the object properties dialog of
the log object.
2. In the Object Properties dialog, select the Connect tab and then the log object in the left
section of the tab. The list of things you can do is displayed on the right.
3. Double-click to open the Dynamizable Parameters configuration dialog. The object
properties that can be dynamized are shown in the parameter list.
4. In the list of properties, select the parameter you want to dynamize.
5. Click the tag selection symbol on the upper right side. The tag selection dialog is displayed.
6. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag. Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection
dialog. If necessary, specify a start value for the tag.
7. Apply the settings by clicking OK and save the layout.
8. Before the log is started in Runtime, the WinCC tag must be supplied with values.

Dynamization of Log Parameters of other Log Objects of the Runtime Documentation

The procedure for dynamization via WinCC tags is the same for all log parameters.
1. Open the desired layout in the page layout editor and call the object properties dialog of
the log object.
2. In the Object Properties dialog, select the Connect tab and then the log object in the left
section of the tab. The list of things you can do is displayed on the right.
3. In the list of things you can do, open the configuration dialog by means of a double-click or
the pop-up menu.
4. Select the Tag check box for the parameter to be dynamized, and click the folder button.
The tag selection dialog is displayed.
5. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag. Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection
dialog. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag.
Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection dialog. If required, specify a start value for
the tag. The tag can also be entered directly in the editing field without opening the tag
selection dialog.
6. Apply the changes by clicking OK and save the layout.
7. Before the log is started in Runtime, the WinCC tag must be supplied with values.

Dynamization of the Log Parameters by Means of the Parameter Dialog

In the parameter dialog you can change the log parameters in Runtime. Since the relevant
object name is displayed for the log objects in the parameter dialog, it makes sense to give
the log objects meaningful names. Otherwise, the objects are displayed in the parameter dialog
with the standard names assigned by WinCC. WinCC automatically assigns the log object
standard names together with a consecutive number and increments the number each time a

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new object is created, e.g. "Dynamic Table 1". Consequently, a numbered selection of dynamic
tables would be displayed in the parameter dialog, for example, which is not suitable if the user
wants to make a specific selection.
1. Select the desired print job in WinCC Explorer, and use the pop-up menu to open the
properties dialog.
2. On the General tab, select the Parameter Dialog option in the Dialog field.
3. Click OK to apply the change.
4. If the print job is started, the parameter dialog is displayed with the integrated log objects.
Use a double-click to open the configuration dialog of the desired log object, and then set
the output options.

5. The Printer Setup button allows you to change the selected printer.
6. The Delete button allows you to delete a selection. To do this, select the log object and
click the Delete button.
7. Once the selection is made, you can start the log.

Selecting the Printer in Runtime

The printer for output is selected when the print job is configured. If the default settings in the
Print Job Properties dialog remain unchanged, the printer cannot be changed in Runtime. If
the Printer Selection Dialog option is selected, the printer can also be selected in Runtime, if
necessary. This option is configured separately for each print job.
1. Select the desired print job in WinCC Explorer, and use the pop-up menu to open the
properties dialog.
2. On the General tab, select the Printer Selection Dialog option in the Dialog field.
3. Click OK to apply the change.
4. If the print job is started, the printer selection dialog is displayed with the available printers.

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5. Use the dialog to specify the printer for output. If necessary, change the order of priority of
the printers. Output to a file is also possible.
6. Confirm the selection with "OK". Printing is started.

See also
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources (Page1492)
Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation (Page1479)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1638)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1643)
Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1647)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1651)
How to Change the Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging Runtime
(Page1654)
How to Change the Output Options for User Archive Tables (Page1658)

7.7.5

Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation

Introduction
To make Runtime documentation more flexible, a number of report object parameters can be
dynamized. The tables below show the parameters that can be dynamized.

Parameters of report objects for WinCC Controls created in a version older than WinCC V7 which
support dynamization
WinCC Alarm Control
Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

MsgFilterSQL

Selection of message by means of SQL statements

ServerNames

Server selection in distributed systems

TimeBase

Time base of message lists

WinCC Online Table Control

Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

Archives

Archive linked to a column

BackColor

Background color of the table

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Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

BeginTime

Start time of the column time range

If the "Update" checkbox is activated in the "Column" tab, the start
time will refer to the current time. The previous values are then
output in the defined time interval.

Color

Color of the column

CommonTime

Common time column to be used for the table

EndTime

End time of the column time range The "Time range" checkbox
in the "Column" tab must be deactivated. The value depends on
TimeAxisX.

ItemVisible

Hide/show column

Name

Name in column header

Precisions

Number of decimal places in a value column

TimeColumnAlignment

Alignment of time column

TimeFormat

Format of time in column

TimeRangeBase

Time range of a column. The time range is calculated by

multiplying TimeRangeBase with TimeRangeFactor. The
"TimeRangeBase" and "TimeRangeFactor" properties are only
evaluated when the "Time range" checkbox in the "Column" tab
is activated.Format:

TimeRangeFactor

Repeat rate of the column time range. The time range is

calculated by multiplying TimeRangeBase with
TimeRangeFactor. The "TimeRangeBase" and
"TimeRangeFactor" properties are only evaluated when the
"Time range" checkbox in the "Column" tab is activated.Format:

TimeZone

Time base of the table

ValueColumnAlignment

Alignment of value column

Variable

Archive tag linked to a column

WinCC Online Trend Control

Dynamizable Parameters

1480

Explanation

BackColor

Background color of trend graphic

BeginTime

Start time of a trend.

If the "Update" checkbox is activated in the "Time axis" tab, the
start time will refer to the current time. The previous values are
then displayed for a fixed time range or for a fixed number of
measured points.
If CommonX is set to Yes, the set BeginTime applies to all trends.

BeginValue

Lower limit of value of the range of a trend. Only available if

Autorange option is deactivated.

Color

Color of the trend

CommonX

Shared X axis of the trend graphic

CommonY

Shared Y axis of the trend graphic

CurveForm

Representation of measurements in the form of a trend

EndTime

End time of a trend. The "Time Range" and "Number of

Measuring Points" checkboxes on the "Time Axis" tab must be
unchecked.

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Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

EndValue

Upper limit of value of the range of a trend. Only available if

Autorange option is deactivated.

GraphDirection

Direction of current values in trend graphic

ItemVisible

Hide/show trend

LineWidth

Line width of trend

MeasurePoints

The number of measuring points that are output since start time.
The "Time range" checkbox in the "Time Axis" tab must be
unchecked.

Relay Curves

Staggered display of trends

TagName

Tags linked by a trend

TimeRangeBase

Time range of a trend. The time range is calculated by multiplying

TimeRangeBase with TimeRangeFactor. The "TimeRangeBase"
is evaluated only when the "Time range" checkbox in the "Time
Axis" tab is activated.

TimeRangeFactor

Repeat rate of the time range of a trend. The time range is

calculated by multiplying TimeRangeBase with
TimeRangeFactor. The "TimeRangeFactor" is evaluated only
when the "Time range" checkbox in the "Time Axis" tab is
activated.

TimeZone

Time base of trend graphic

WinCC Function Trend Control

Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

AutorangeX

Automatic selection of value range along X axis

AutorangeY

Automatic selection of value range along Y axis

BackColor

Background color of trend graphic

BeginX

Lower limit of X axis value range. Only available if

AutorangeX is set to No. The value range is determined
by CommonX.

BeginY

Lower limit of Y axis value range. Only available if

AutorangeY is set to No. The value range is determined
by CommonY.

Color

Color of the trend

CommonX

Shared X axis of the trend graphic

CommonY

Shared Y axis of the trend graphic

CurveForm

Representation of measurements in the form of a trend

DesiredCurveColor

Color of setpoint trend of a trend. The value depends

on DesiredCurveVisible.

DesiredCurveCurveForm

Representation of measurements of setpoint trend of a

trend. The value depends on DesiredCurveVisible.

DesiredCurveSourceNumberOfUAValues

Number of values of a setpoint trend of trend that can

be loaded from the user archive. The value depends on
DesiredCurveVisible.

DesiredCurveSourceUAArchive

Name of the user archive to which the setpoint trend of

a trend is linked. The value depends on
DesiredCurveVisible.

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Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

DesiredCurveSourceUAArchiveStartID

ID of the record of the user archive from which values

are to be loaded to the setpoint trend of a trend. The
value depends on DesiredCurveVisible.

DesiredCurveSourceUAColumnX

Column of the user archive from where the X values of

a setpoint trend of a trend are to be read. The value
depends on DesiredCurveVisible.

DesiredCurveSourceUAColumnY

Column of the user archive from where the Y values of

a setpoint trend of a trend are to be read. The value
depends on DesiredCurveVisible.

DesiredCurveVisible

Hide/show setpoint trend

EndX

Upper limit of X axis value range. Only available if

AutorangeX is set to No. The value range is determined
by CommonX.

EndY

Upper limit of Y axis value range. Only available if

AutorangeY is set to No. The value range is determined
by CommonY.

GraphDirection

Direction of positive values in trend graphic

ItemVisible

Hide/show trend

LabelX

Label of X axis of a trend. The value depends on

TimeAxisX.

LabelY

Label of Y axis of a trend

Name

Name of a trend

Relay Curves

Staggered display of trends

SourceBeginTime

Start time of a trend.

SourceEndTime

End time of a trend. The "Time range" checkbox in the

"X-Axis" tab must be checked.

SourceNumberOfUAValues

Number of value pairs of a trend that are loaded from

the user archive

SourceNumberOfValues

Number of value pairs of a trend that are retrieved from

archive tags. The "Time range" checkbox in the "X-Axis"
tab must be unchecked.

SourceTagNameX

Archive tag linked to the X axis of a trend

SourceTagNameY

Archive tag linked to the Y axis of a trend

SourceUAArchive

Name of user archive linked to a trend

SourceUAArchiveStartID

ID of the record of the user archive from which values

are to be loaded to a trend.

SourceUAColumnX

Column of the user archive from where the X values of

a trend are to be read.

SourceUAColumnY

Column of the user archive from where the Y values of

a trend are to be read.

TimeAxisX

Use time range of the X axis for a trend

TimeZone

Time base of trend graphic

WinCC User Archive Control

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Dynamizable Parameters

Explanation

Filter

Filter criteria for database access by means of SQL statements

Sort

Sort criteria for database access by means of SQL statements

TimeZone

Time base of the table

Dynamizable Parameters for other Report Objects

Report object

Dynamizable Parameters

Message reports

Selected servers
Filter criterion for alarm output

User archives table

Archive name/view name

Filter condition
Sorting

ODBC database field

ODBC data source

Users
Password
SQL statement

ODBC database table

ODBC data source

Users
Password
SQL statement

Hard copy

Range selection
Size and position of a subarea

CSV provider table

CSV file name

CSV provider trend

CSV file name

See also
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1638)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1643)
Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1647)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1651)

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7.7.6

Reporting Messages in Runtime

7.7.6.1

Reporting Messages in Runtime

Overview
You can log all messages occurring in the system using the WinCC reporting system. The
following options are available:
Output of Runtime data from the message lists.
Output of a message sequence report.
You print the messages from the message lists directly via a configurable interface in the
WinCC AlarmControl. The messages from the archive lists are output in accordance with the
selection configured in the WinCC Alarm Control.
To output messages, you have to do the following things:
Configure the button in the WinCC AlarmControl for starting the report in Runtime.
Select "Alarm Logging Runtime" and "Graphics Runtime" in the startup list of the WinCC
project.
Select the project, and start the log.
You have the option of logging messages with a selection independent of the WinCC
AlarmControl. The report system provides layouts, in which you can determine parameters
that can be made dynamic. For more information, please read , and .

Points to Note About the Message Sequence Report

The message sequence report outputs the messages that occur in the system in chronological
order in accordance with the specified selection criteria. To this end, the message sequence
report in the startup list of the WinCC project must be activated. The message sequence report
is generally output to a line printer, but it can also be output page by page.

See also
How to Create a User-Defined Message Sequence Report (Page1489)
How to Output Online Data with Message Sequence Report (Page1486)
How to Output Runtime Data from the Message Lists (Page1485)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1649)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1651)

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7.7.6.2

How to Output Runtime Data from the Message Lists

Introduction
In WinCC AlarmControl, you configure a button for the report call for the output of the messages
from the message lists. In Runtime, you must activate the desired message list in AlarmControl
and press the "Print" button. You determine how the data is output using the print job in
AlarmControl.

Overview
When messages from the message archive lists are output, you must select the messages
(e.g. all messages of the last shift) before outputting the report. When outputting a report
without selection of messages, the scope of the output can be too great and the system can
become overloaded.
For the output of the messages, the "@Alarm Control - Picture.RPL" or "@ Alarm Control Table.RPL" system layouts are provided with the WinCC V7 AlarmControl. If you want to output
the messages from the message archive outside of the WinCC AlarmControl, use the
"@CCAlarmCtrl-CP.RPL" system layout.
However, you can create a new layout to configure desired settings (e.g. landscape format,
other aspects of the layout). In this case, you must link the print job to the layout.
Further information on the layouts and print jobs of the WinCC AlarmControl can be found
under System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513).

Procedure
1. Open the WinCC picture with the WinCC AlarmControl in Graphics Designer.
2. Double-click the control to open the properties dialog.
3. Go to the "Toolbar" tab and activate the "Print" button function.
4. Go to the "General" tab. A print job is set for output in the "View current print job" field. If
you want to use a different print job, select the desired print job using the

button.

5. Confirm the setting with "OK". Save and close the WinCC picture.
6. Select the "Graphics Runtime" and "Alarm Logging Runtime" options in the computer's
startup list.
7. Activate the project.
8. Click the "Print" button in the WinCC AlarmControl for the print output. The current view or
the full contents of the selected message list of the WinCC AlarmControl is output on the
printer set in the print job.
Note
When the application starts log output, the system print jobs are used. For this reason
neither system layouts nor system print jobs can be deleted or renamed.

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In the WinCC Alarm Control before WinCC V7, you can also activate the "Print message report"
key function. In this case, the
button is displayed in Runtime. This button is for outputting
logs with a standard layout from WinCC V5 and has been retained in the system for
compatibility reasons. The contents of this log depend on the configuration settings in the
layout called and the selection made in the WinCC Alarm Control. When messages from the
message archive lists are output, you must select the messages (e.g. all messages of the last
shift) before outputting the report. When outputting a report without selection of messages, the
scope of the output can be too great and the system can become overloaded.

See also
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources (Page1492)
Reporting Process Values in Runtime (Page1490)
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)

7.7.6.3

How to Output Online Data with Message Sequence Report

Introduction
The message sequence report allows you to output a chronological list of all messages that
occur in a project. It is generally output on a line printer. The messages are output in the order
in which they occur.
If a line printer is used for output, it must be connected locally to the logging computer. The
Line layout for Line Printer check box in the print job must be selected. However, the message
sequence report can also be output in a page layout.
The printer does not have to be connected locally to the logging computer in order to output
the report with a page layout. A message sequence report in a page layout can also be output
on a network printer. Upon output in page layout, the printout is generated when incoming
messages have filled a page or if you initiate the printout of the page by clicking the operation
button.

Print Job and Layout

For the message sequence report there is a set print job that also has to be used for a message
sequence report you define yourself. It is not possible to create your own print job for a line
layout.

1486

Print job

Layout

Remarks

@Report Alarm Logging RT

Message Sequence

@CCAlgRtSequence.R
P1

System print job for a message sequence

report in line format.

@Report Alarm Logging RT

Message Sequence

@CCAlgRtOnlineMessa Print job for the printing of a message

ges.RPL
sequence log in the page layout

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Creating a Line Layout

Before a message sequence report is output in a line layout, the layout has to be adjusted.
You edit a line layout in the line layout editor.
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Jobs entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the Layouts entry in the file window. All existing layouts are displayed in the
file window.
3. Double click on line layout "@CCAlgRtSequence.RP1". The layout is opened in the line
layout editor.
4. In the Page Size area, specify the number of lines per page and the number of columns
(characters per line).
5. In the Margins section, specify the number of characters for the width of the margins.
6. Edit the contents of the header and footer. These are output on every page.
7. Click the Selection button to open the Log Tables Selection dialog. Use the dialog to specify
the data for output. You find more information in chapter "Changing Output Options for
Message Reports from Alarm Logging". When you close the dialog, the selected columns
and their widths are displayed in characters per line in the Table area. If the number of
characters per line is too large, a message to this effect is displayed.
8. Save the changes to the line layout, and close the editor.

Prerequisites for Output

The line printer on which the message sequence report is output must be connected locally
to the computer carrying out the logging.
The message sequence report must be activated in the startup list of the computer carrying
out the logging.

Starting the Message Sequence Report

The message sequence report must be activated in the startup list of the computer carrying
out the logging. The message sequence report is started automatically when the WinCC project
is activated.

Interrupting the Message Sequence Report

To interrupt the output of the message sequence report on a line printer, proceed as follows:
Suspend the output of the message sequence report by calling the
MSRTActivateMProt(False,Null) function.
To resume output of the message sequence report, proceed as follows:

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Restart output of the message sequence report by calling the
MSRTActivateMProt(TRUE,NULL) function.
Note
If the message sequence report is interrupted, the incoming messages for the message
sequence report are lost.

Printout of Message Sequence Log in Page Layout

Before a message sequence report is output in a page layout, the print job has to be adjusted.
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Jobs entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the Print Jobs entry. All existing print jobs are displayed in the file window.
3. Double click on print job "@Report Alarm Logging RT Message sequence" marked in
yellow. The Print Job Properties dialog is displayed.
4. Clear the Line Layout for Line Printer check box on the General tab.
5. From the list of layouts, select layout "@CCAlgRtOnlineMessages.RPL".
6. Select the "Printer Setup" tab. Acknowledge the displayed dialog window "CcPJobApi" with
"OK".
7. In the "Print output to..." section, select the default printer and the substitute printer. Click
"OK". After closing the dialog, the yellow marking for the print job "@Report Alarm Logging
RT Message sequence" disappears in the file window.
The message sequence log in page layout will be printed automatically as soon as the incoming
messages have filled a page. If you wish to print a page before it is filled, proceed as follows:
With a call to function MSRTPrintMProt (pointer to page number, pointer on error message),
start the message sequence log printout.
If you use Basic Process Control, the key set of the message lists include a printer button
with which you can print out a page that is not full.
For troubleshooting instructions, refer to chapter Printer Setup.

See also
Defining a Printer (Page1442)
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources (Page1492)
Reporting Process Values in Runtime (Page1490)
How to create print jobs for the Runtime documentation (Page1474)

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7.7.6.4

How to Create a User-Defined Message Sequence Report

Introduction
To create a user-defined message sequence report, you can create a new line layout or page
layout or save an existing layout with a new name and edit it. Always use the @Report Alarm
Logging RT Message Sequence print job to output the message sequence report.

Output in a Line Layout

1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Job entries are displayed.
2. Select the Layouts entry, and use the pop-up menu to create a new line layout. A blank
layout is created and stored under Layouts. The layout is saved with the name
"NewRP100.RP1". If several layouts are created, the number in the layout name is
incremented each time a new one is created.
3. Open the new line layout by means of a double-click in the line layout editor.
4. Configure the layout as described in chapter How to Output Online Data with Message
Sequence Report.
5. Save and close the layout.

Output in a Page Layout

The message sequence report can also be output in a page layout.
1. Create a new page layout, and open it in the page layout editor.
2. In the object palette on the Runtime Documentation tab, select the Message Report object,
and drag it to the desired size in the working area.
3. Open the Object Properties dialog by double-clicking the object, and select the Connect
tab.
4. In the list of possible things to do, double-click Selection. The Alarm Logging Runtime:
Report Table Selection dialog is opened.
5. Use the dialog to specify the data for output. You find more information in chapter Changing
Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging.

Editing the Print Job

There is only one print job for the message sequence report, so you have to call the line layout
or page layout you have created in this print job.
1. Select the Report Designer entry in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. The Layouts
and Print Jobs entries are displayed.
2. Double-click the Print Jobs entry in the file window. All existing print jobs are displayed in
the file window.
3. Open the @Report Alarm Logging RT Message Sequence print job by double-clicking it.
The Print Job Properties dialog is displayed.

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4. On the General tab, select the layout you have created in the Layout field.
5. If you are using a line layout, select the Line layout for Line Printer check box on the General
tab. If you are using a page layout, clear this check box.
6. On the Printer Setup tab, specify the printer to be used for output, and then close the dialog.

See also
Print Jobs in WinCC (Page1436)
How to Output Online Data with Message Sequence Report (Page1486)
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources (Page1492)
Reporting Process Values in Runtime (Page1490)

7.7.7

Reporting Process Values in Runtime

Introduction
You can output process values from the Logging tag using the WinCC report system. The
following options are available:
Output of process values in table form from process value archives and compressed
archives via the WinCC OnlineTableControl.
Output of process values in trend curve form from process value archives and compressed
archives via the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.
Output of process values in trend curve form as a function of another tag from process
value archives, compressed archives and user archives via the WinCC
FunctionTrendControl.
The data can be output directly in the relevant WinCC control using the "Print" button.

Overview
For the output of the data, the new WinCC V7 controls provide new system layouts for each
WinCC control. If you output the process values outside of the WinCC controls and you want
to dynamize the report parameters, continue to use the previous system layouts of the
respective WinCC control.
However, you can create a new layout to configure desired settings (e.g. landscape format,
other aspects of the layout). In this case, you must link the print job to the layout.
Further information on the layouts and print jobs of the controls can be found under .

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Procedure
1. Open the WinCC picture with one of the aforementioned WinCC controls in Graphics
Designer.
2. Double-click the control to open the properties dialog.
3. Go to the "Toolbar" tab and activate the "Print" button function.
4. Go to the "General" tab. A print job is set for output in the "View current print job" field. If
you want to use a different print job, select the desired print job using the

button.

5. Confirm the setting with "OK". Save and close the WinCC picture.
6. Select the "Graphics Runtime" and "Tag Logging Runtime" options in the computer's startup
list.
7. Activate the project.
8. Click the "Print" button in the displayed WinCC AlarmControl for the print output. The current
view or the trend curves or the full contents of the table is output on the printer set in the
print job.
Note
When the application starts report output, the system print jobs are used. For this reason
neither system layouts nor system print jobs can be deleted or renamed.

See also
How to Output Data from User Archives (Page1491)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1638)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1643)
Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1647)

7.7.8

How to Output Data from User Archives

Introduction
You authorize output of the table of the Win CC UserArchiveControl in Runtime using the "Print"
button. You determine how the data is output using the print job in the WinCC control.

Overview
For the output of the data, the "@User Archive Control - Picture.RPL" or "@User Archive
Control - Table.RPL" system layouts are provided with the new WinCC WinCC
UserArchiveControl. If you want to output the data of the user archive outside of the WinCC
UserArchiveControl, use the "User Archive - Runtime" layout in Reports Designer.
However, you can create a new layout to configure desired settings (e.g. landscape format,
other aspects of the layout). In this case, you must link the print job to the layout.
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Further information on the layouts and print jobs of the WinCC UserArchiveControl can be
found under System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513).

Procedure
1. Open the WinCC picture with the WinCC UserArchiveControl in Graphics Designer.
2. Double-click the control to open the properties dialog.
3. Go to the "Toolbar" tab and activate the "Print" button function.
4. Go to the "General" tab. A print job is set for output in the "View current print job" field. If
you want to use a different print job, select the desired print job using the

button.

5. Confirm the setting with "OK". Save and close the WinCC picture.
6. Select the Graphics Runtime option in the computer's startup list.
7. Activate the project.
8. Click the "Print" button in the WinCC UserArchiveControl for the print output. The current
view or the full contents of the table of the WinCC UserArchiveControl is output on the
printer set in the print job.
Note
When the application starts report output, the system print jobs are used. For this reason
neither system layouts nor system print jobs can be deleted or renamed.

See also
Reporting Data from Other Data Sources (Page1492)
System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation (Page1513)
Reporting Messages in Runtime (Page1484)

7.7.9

Reporting Data from Other Data Sources

7.7.9.1

Reporting Data from Other Data Sources

Overview
The WinCC reporting system also allows you to log data that do not come from a WinCC
project. There are various log objects available for integrating this kind of data in a WinCC log.
In addition, WinCC provides a hard copy log object, by means of which the screen or a section
of the screen showing the current Runtime status can be output in a report.
The following log objects are available for output:

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ODBC database
field
ODBC database
tables
CSV table
CSV trend
Hard copy object
COM server object

Serves to output data from a database field in a WinCC log by means

of ODBC.
Serves to output data from a database table in a WinCC log by means
of ODBC.
Serves to output data from a file in CSV format in a WinCC log. The
data is output in tabular form.
Serves to output data from a file in CSV format in a WinCC log. The
data is output in the form of a trend.
Serves to output a view of the screen or a section of the screen in a
WinCC log.
Permits the integration of a user-specific COM server to output its data
in a WinCC log.

Detailed knowledge is required in order to configure these logs. Creating a COM server, in
particular, requires appropriate background knowledge. Information on database accesses by
means of ODBC, COM servers, and CSV files is not provided here. You find more information
on these subjects in the relevant technical literature.

See also
How to Output Data from a COM Server in a Report (Page1509)
How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Log Object (Page1501)
How to Output Data from a CSV Table in a Log (Page1495)
How to Output Data from an ODBC Database in a Report (Page1493)

7.7.9.2

How to Output Data from an ODBC Database in a Report

Introduction
Special log objects are provided in the reporting system for integrating data from user-specific
data sources. It is possible to use two of these log objects to access data sources by means
of ODBC and to output the data that is read out in a WinCC log. These report objects allow for
access to these data and output in a WinCC log. This gives the reports and logs uniformity,
even if the data do not come from WinCC. If WinCC tags are integrated, the selection of the
data can be dynamized. In other words, the data selection can be changed online before output.

Available ODBC Log Objects

Database field
Database table

Serves to output data from a field of a data source by means of ODBC.

Serves to output data from a table of a data source by means of ODBC.

Requirements
Knowledge of how to create layouts and insert log objects
Knowledge of how to access data sources by means of ODBC
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Access authorization for the ODBC data source
Knowledge of SQL
If WinCC tags are used for dynamization, the WinCC project must be activated for testing
and output.

Procedure
1. Create a new page layout, and open it in the page layout editor.
2. In the object palette on the Standard Objects tab, select the log object Database Field or
Database Table, depending on your requirements, and drag it to the required size in the
working area.
3. Open the Object Properties dialog by double-clicking the object, and select the Connect
tab.
4. In the list of possible things to do, double-click Database Link. The Data Connection dialog
is displayed.
5. In the ODBC Data Source area of the selection dialog, select an existing data source, or
enter a data source in the text box.
6. Edit the other text boxes in accordance with the requirements of your data source.
7. Click OK to close the dialog and save the layout.
8. Create a print job, and select the configured page layout there.
9. Start output by means of the print job in WinCC Explorer or by means of a configured call
in a WinCC picture, for example.

Output Options
You can use any SQL statement to select the data. Enter it in the SQL Statement field. You
can use WinCC tags to dynamize the selection of data by means of a SQL statement. For full
dynamization, select the Tag check box, and integrate a tag. You can also dynamize a
substring of the SQL statement. To do this, use the Insert Tag button. Select the tag you require
from the tag selection dialog that is displayed. The tag will be inserted at the current cursor
positionin the text box. The syntax for this is $tagname$.
You can use the Test SQL Statement button to check whether the SQL statement is correct.
Access to the data source is required in order to carry out the test. If there are WinCC tags in
the SQL statement, WinCC must be activated for the test. The result of the test is displayed
in a dialog. If the test is successful, the number of fields is entered automatically for a data
table.
Errors that occur in Runtime are written to a log file.
You find more information in chapters Changing Output Options for the ODBC Database Field
and Changing Output Options for the ODBC Database Table.
CAUTION
The SQL statements are not subject to any constraints. If you do the wrong thing, it is possible
to destroy or delete the data source.

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7.7.9.3

How to Output Data from a CSV Table in a Log

Introduction
Two log objects are provided in the reporting system for the integration of data in CSV format.
These report objects allow for access to these data and output in a WinCC log. This gives the
reports and logs uniformity, even if the data do not come from WinCC. If WinCC tags are
integrated, the selection of the data can be dynamized. In other words, the data selection can
be changed in Runtime before output.

Available CSV Log Objects

CSV provider
table
CSV provider
trend

Serves to output data from a file in CSV format. The data is output in
tabular form.
Serves to output data from a file in CSV format. The data is output in the
form of a trend.

Requirements
Knowledge of how to create layouts and insert log objects
Knowledge of the structure of CSV tables.
If WinCC tags are used for dynamization, the WinCC project must be activated for testing
and output.

Procedure
1. Create a new page layout, and open it in the page layout editor.
2. In the object palette on the Runtime Documentation tab, select the log object CSV-Provider
Table or CSV-Provider Trend, depending on your requirements, and drag it to the desired
size in the working area.
3. Open the Object Properties dialog by double-clicking the object, and select the Connect
tab.
4. In the list of possible things to do, select CSV Table Selection or CSV Trend Selection. A
dialog is displayed in which you can select the data source.
5. In CSV File Name area of the selection dialog, select an existing data source, or enter a
data source in the text box.
6. Click OK to close the dialog and save the layout.
7. Create a print job, and select the configured page layout there.
8. Start output by means of the print job in WinCC Explorer or by means of a configured call
in a WinCC picture, for example.

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Using the Data Source

To output the log correctly, the data must be stored in the CSV file used on the basis of a
predefined structure. If current data are to be output, the CSV file must be created before
output is started. The user is responsible for deleting the CSV file after output. You find more
information in chapter Requirements to Be Met by a CSV File for Logging.

See also
Requirements to be Met by a CSV File for Reporting (Page1498)
Example of the Output of CSV Files in a Report (Page1496)

7.7.9.4

Example of the Output of CSV Files in a Report

Introduction
To illustrate the output of CSV files in a WinCC log, an example is provided of output in tabular
form, and another is provided of output in the form of a trend. The notation must be rigorously
adhered to. If the CSV file is created using a spreadsheet program, please check the notation
before outputting it for the first time. To this end, open the CSV file in a text editor and check
the contents. You find more information on this in chapters How to Output Data from a CSV
Table in a Log and Requirements to Be Met by a CSV File for Logging.

Procedure
1. Create a CSV file in which the data are stored as in the examples described below.
2. Configure a page layout for the output. Proceed in the same way as for configuration
described in chapter How to Output Data from a CSV Table in a Log.
3. Create a print job, and associate it with the page layout. Proceed in the same way as for
configuration described in chapter Creating Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation.
4. Start the print job. The log is output.
5. Delete the CSV file after output.

Example of Output in Tabular Form

Contents of the CSV file to be printed:
#Table; Name; Columns; Font; Font size
"testfile";4;"Arial";14
#Column; Num; Header; Width; Alignment
0;"Date";10;C
1;"Time";10;C
2;"Number";6;L
3;"Status";16;R

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#Data; Color; Col1; Col2; Col3; Col4;
0xFF00FF;"05/06/02";"15.55.52";85;"+/-"
0xFF00FF;"05/06/02";"15.55.53";86;"+/-"
0x32b400;"05/06/02";"15.55.54";87;"+/-"
0x32b400;"05/06/02";"15.55.55";88;"+/-"
0xFFFFFF;"05/06/02";"15.55.56";89;"+/-"
0xFFFFFF;"05/06/02";"15.55.57";90;"+/-"
0x0000FF;"05/06/02";"15.57.12";100;"+/-"
0x0000FF;"05/06/02";"15.58.01";85;"+/-"
0xFF0000;"05/06/02";"15.58.02";86;"+/-"
0xFF0000;"05/06/02";"15.58.03";87;"+/-"

Output file

Example of Output in the Form of a Trend

Contents of the CSV file to be printed:
#Trend_T; Name; Curves; DateFrom; DateTo; Common Y-Axis; Font; Fontsize
"TrendControl1";3;"2001-10-10 16:30:00.000";"2001-10-10 16:40:00.000";0;"Arial";10
#Curve; Num; Name; Count; dMin; dMax; Color; Weight; CurveType; Filling
0;"Temperature";3;10;30;0x00ff0000;1;STEP;0
1;"Pressure"; 5; 0;50;0x0000ff00;2;DOTS;0
2;"Force"; 10; 0;50;0x000000ff;5;LINE;1
#Data; Num; Date; Value; Flags; Color
0;"2001-10-10 16:30:00.000";22;0;0x000000FF
0;"2001-10-10 16:31:00.000";24;0;
0;"2001-10-10 16:32:00.000";27;0;
1;"2001-10-10 16:30:00.000";10;0;0x0000FF00
1;"2001-10-10 16:30:30.000";20;0;
1;"2001-10-10 16:31:00.000";20;0;

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1;"2001-10-10 16:31:30.000";30;0;
1;"2001-10-10 16:32:00.000";10;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:30:00.000";20;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:31:00.000";27;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:32:00.000";34;0;0x00FF00FF
2;"2001-10-10 16:33:00.000";45;0;0x00FF0000
2;"2001-10-10 16:34:00.000";20;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:35:00.000";27;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:36:00.000";34;0;0x00FF00FF
2;"2001-10-10 16:37:00.000";45;0;0x00FF0000
2;"2001-10-10 16:38:00.000";20;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:39:00.000";10;0;
2;"2001-10-10 16:40:00.000";25;0;

Output file

See also
Requirements to be Met by a CSV File for Reporting (Page1498)
How to Output Data from a CSV Table in a Log (Page1495)

7.7.9.5

Requirements to be Met by a CSV File for Reporting

Introduction
To permit the data from a CSV file to be output in a WinCC log, the data must correspond to
a set structure. The data in a CSV file are prepared by the user. You find more information in
chapters How to Output Data from a CSV Table in a Log and Example of the Output of CSV
Files in a Report.

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Requirements for CSV File to be Output in Tabular Form

Each section must begin with the name of the corresponding file structure, followed by one or
more lines containing the elements of the file structure. All parameters must be separated by
a semicolon (;), regardless of country-specific settings. The following file structures are defined:

File Structure for Output in Tabular Form

The table, columns, and data must be defined as follows:
#Table; Name; Columns; Font; Font size
- Name = name of the table control or file
- Columns = number of columns
- Font = font of the table
- Font size = font size of the table

#Column; Num; Header; Width; Alignment

- Num = number of the column
- Header = header of the column
- Width = width of the column in characters
- Alignment = left aligned/centered/right aligned

#Data; Color; Col1; Col2; Col3; Col4; ...

- Color = color attribute of the line (0xbbggrr)
- Col1 = data of column 1
- Col2 = data of column 2
- etc.

Points to Note About the Data in the CSV File

The control characters for color, alignment, etc. are always preceding of the output text and
can be combined with each other (e.g. <B><U>output text). No distinction is drawn between
upper and lower case.
The Width parameter indicates the relative width of the columns. The effective width of the
column in the table is calculated as follows:
[ Table width as a number of characters ] x [ relative width of the column in % ] / [ sum of all
relative widths of the column ]
The line defined for tables in the CSV file contains one more column than the data lines. If a
spreadsheet program such as Excel is used to edit the data, the columns for the headings and
the data will no longer match up. To prevent this from happening, you can enter a semicolon
(;) as the first character in the data lines of the CSV file. The data blocks of the CSV file may
not contain blanks. When you open the CSV in Excel, the data columns are shifted one column

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to the right. The columns for the headings and data will then match up. If the first column does
not contain anything, you have to insert a blank (;blank;first data value;...).

Control Characters for Table Output

<END>

Concludes the interpretation of control sequences. The rest of the text is

accepted as specified.

<COLOR=#rrggbb>

Font color in hexadecimal notation (default = as set for the table)

<BGCOLOR=#rrggbb Background color in hexadecimal notation (default = as set for the table)
>
<B>

Bold

<U>

Underlined

<I>

Italic

<STRIKE>

Strike-through

<ALIGN=left>

Left aligned

<ALIGN=center>

Centered

<ALIGN=right>

Right aligned

Note
The definition of the Color attribute conforms to the Intel byte format. The notation is 0xbbggrr
(hex blue blue green green red red). The control characters for formatting the table cells
conform to the HTML standard. The notation for <color=> is #rrggbb.

Each section must begin with the name of the corresponding file structure, followed by one or
more lines containing the elements of the file structure. The following file structures are defined:

File Structure for Output in the Form of a Trend f(t)

#Trend_T; Name; Curves; DateFrom; DateTo; Common Y-Axis; Font; Fontsize
- Name = name of the trend control or file
- Curves = number of trends
- DateFrom = start of time range, notation: 2000-10-30 10:15:00.000
Number of digits: year(4); month(2); day(2); hours(2); minutes(2); seconds(2); milliseconds(3).
- DateTo = end of time range, notation: 2000-10-30 10:15:00.000
Number of digits: year(4); month(2); day(2); hours(2); minutes(2); seconds(2); milliseconds(3).
- Common Y-Axis = common y-axis
- Font = font
- Fontsize = font size

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#Curve; Num; Name; Count; dMin; dMax; Color; Weight; CurveType; Filling
- Num = number of the trend
- Name = trend name
- Count = number of values
- dMin = lower limit of the trend (for scaling)
- dMax = upper limit of the trend (for scaling)
- Color = color attribute of the trend (0xbbggrr)
- Weight = line weight in points (e.g. 1.5)
- CurveType = trend type ( LINE, DOTS, STEP)
- Filling = filling color for areas ( 0=no, 1=yes). The Filling parameter is currently not in use.

#Data; Num; Date; Value; Flags; Color

- Num = number of the trend
- Date = X coordinate of the trend, notation: 2000-10-30 10:15:00.000
Number of digits: year(4); month(2); day(2); hours(2); minutes(2); seconds(2); milliseconds(3).
- Value = y coordinate of the trend
- Flags = limit values/time overlap etc.
- Color (if an empty string is specified here, the color is taken from #Curve ...)

7.7.9.6

How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Log Object

Introduction
For outputting a hard copy in a log, the page layout editor provides the Hardcopy log object.
This log object allows you to create a hard copy of the entire screen, a section of the screen,
or the current window. In contrast to output by means of a key combination, this can be output
in a defined page layout. It is also possible to insert the log object in a different log and output
it together with other data.

Available Hard Copy Log Object

Hard copy

Serves to output current screen views.

Requirements
Knowledge of how to create layouts and insert log objects
If WinCC tags are used for dynamization, the WinCC project must be activated for testing
and output.

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Creating a Hard Copy Using the Hardcopy Log Object

1. Create a new page layout, and open it in the page layout editor.
2. In the object palette on the Standard Objects tab, select the Hardcopy log object. In the
working area, drag it to the required size.
3. Open the object properties dialog by double-clicking the object, and select the Connect tab.
4. In the list of possible things to do, double-click Area Selection. A dialog that allows you to
select the part of the screen to be output is displayed.
5. Select your preferred option in the Areas section of the selection dialog. If you select Copy
of a Subarea, you have to specify the position of the upper-left corner and the size of the
section in pixels in the corresponding text boxes.
6. Click OK to close the dialog and save the layout.
7. Create a print job, and select the configured page layout there.
8. Start output by means of the print job in WinCC Explorer or by means of a configured call
in a WinCC picture, for example.

Output Options
The selection of the area and the position and size specifications can also be dynamized by
means of WinCC tags. To do this, select the relevant Tag check box, and use the folder button
to select a tag from the Tag Selection dialog. If you know the tag name, you can enter it directly
instead.
You configure tag supply in Graphics Designer.

See also
How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Key Combination (Page1502)
How to Change Output Options in Runtime (Page1476)

7.7.9.7

How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Key Combination

Introduction
In WinCC Explorer you can use the project properties to specify a key combination for
outputting a hard copy. It is possible to create a hard copy of the entire screen, a section of
the screen, or the current window. For this purpose, command-line parameters have to be
transferred to the executing application PrintScreen. In contrast to output of a hard copy via a
log object, output via PrintScreen is directly to the default printer. A defined page layout is not
used. Output can be started in two ways:
1. By means of a configured key combination in the project properties
2. By starting the PrintScreen application in the computer's startup list
In the startup list you can pass parameters for output. The parameters are taken into account
in both of the above ways of starting output. If a hot key has been configured both in the project

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properties and in the parameters in the startup list, the hot key from the project properties is
used. Additional output parameters from the startup list are nevertheless still taken into account.

Configuring a Key Combination in the Project Properties

The output of a hard copy via a key combination can be set globally in WinCC. The output is
directly to the default printer. For the output, the PrintScreen application is used instead of a
layout from the logging system.
1. Select the name of the project in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer, and use the
pop-up menu to open the Project Properties dialog.
2. Select the HotKeys tab, and then select Hard Copy in the Actions area.

3. Click in the text box below the Assign button, and enter the key combination. The key
combination is displayed in the text box.
4. Apply the setting by clicking the Assign button, and close the dialog.
5. The hard copy is output by entering the specified key combination.

Starting the Print Screen Application in the Startup List

The PrintScreen application is entered in the computer's startup list under Additional Tasks/
Applications. The application can be supplied with parameters in command-line format that

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specify the output You find an overview of the parameters and the applicable conditions in
chapter Output Parameters for Hard Copies.
1. Select Computer in the navigation window of WinCC Explorer. In the data window, select
the computer on which you want the hard copy to be output. Use the pop-up menu to open
the Computer Properties dialog.
2. Select the Startup tab.
3. Click the Add... button. The Add Application dialog is displayed.

4. Click the Browse... button, and navigate to the bin folder in the WinCC installation directory.
Select the PrtScr.exe application, and click Open.
5. Enter the desired parameters in the Parameters field.
6. The Working Directory and Window at Open fields are not required for PrintScreen.
7. Confirm your entries with "OK."
The PrintScreen application can also be called by means of a script. The parameters for output
also apply when a script is used.

See also
Output Parameters for Hard Copy (Page1504)
How to Output a Hard Copy by Means of a Log Object (Page1501)

7.7.9.8

Output Parameters for Hard Copy

Introduction
When you output a hard copy by means of a key combination or a WinCC Script, you can pass
parameters for the output. If the output is to be started by means of a key combination, this
does not have to be specified in the project properties. The key combination can also be passed
as a parameter.

Parameter for Output

The following parameters can be passed:
No parameters

-end

1504

The PrtScr.exe application is started and waits for the key combination
for the printout to be pressed. In this case, the key combination must be
specified in the project properties.
Terminates a current instance of PrtScr.exe

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-hardcopy

Starts PrtScr.exe, starts a hard copy immediately, and then waits for the
key combination for the next printout to be pressed.
-nomcp
Starts PrtScr.exe, starts a hard copy immediately, and then terminates
PrtScr.exe.
-C=
Starts PrtScr.exe, immediately starts a hard copy for the specified area,
left;top;right;botto and then terminates PrtScr.exe (the blank after -C= is important!).
m
Example: prtscr.exe -C= 50;50;300;400 (Starting position 50 pixels from
top, 50 pixels from left, End position 300 pixels from right, 400 pixels from
bottom).
-l
Prints the hard copy in landscape format.
-infinit
Serves as a parameter for starting PrtScr.exe on a system without WinCC
(e.g. a Web client). The key combination for the printout and the
parameters for the printout are not obtained from the WinCC project;
instead, they are passed in the command line. The PrtScr.exe application
is started and waits for the key combination for the printout to be pressed.
The parameters are passed once only at startup. If you want to change
the parameters, you have to terminate the PrtScr.exe application and
restart it with the changed parameters.
-SpoolerLevels= a = SpoolerLevelWarning, b= SpoolerLevelStop. Defines the limit value
at which a warning is generated or the print job is rejected, if the required
a,b
spooler capacity is not available. If no parameters is specified, the limit
values are150MB for warnings and 100MB for rejection of print
job.
Example: -SpoolerLevels= 50,30. if the available capacity of the spooler
is less than 50MB, system message 1004006 Spool full is generated. If
less than 30MB are available, the print job is rejected. System message
1004007 No hard copy printed. Spool full is generated.
-hotkey=x
Parameters for specifying the key combination for starting the output. The
following key combinations are permitted:
{<ALT>, <SHIFT>,<CTRL>} + {0-9, A-Z, 0xXX}
The parameters must be entered in upper casing. The keys <ALT>,
<SHIFT> and <CTRL> can be combined with each other, but it is not
essential. By means of the hexadecimal value 0xXX, all virtual key codes
can be expressed for XX. See the table below.
The parameters must be separated by blanks. In addition, a distinction must be drawn between
upper and lower case.

Examples of the "-hotkey" parameter:

-hotkey=<CTRL+P> Key combination CTRL and P
-hotkey=0x2C Print screen (sometimes referred to as the Print key)
-hotkey=<ALT>+0x2C Key combination of ALT and Print
Each time a key combination is pressed, PrtScr.exe prints a hard copy of the section of the
screen specified (at program startup) on the default printer.

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Parameter Combinations for Hard Copy Output on a Web Client

One-Time Starting
PrtScr.exe infinit
hotkey=<Alt>+p"
PrtScr.exe infinit
hotkey="<Alt>+p" C=
10;10;100;100

Starts PrtScr and waits for key combination <ALT+P>. If the

key combination is triggered, the entire screen is printed.
Starts PrtScr and waits for key combination <ALT+P>. If the
key combination is triggered, the selected partial area is
printed.

Starting in a Script
PrtScr.exe nomcp
PrtScr.exe C=
10;10;100;100

Starts PrtScr, starts a hard copy immediately, and then terminates

PrtScr.
Starts PrtScr, starts a hard copy of the specified subarea
immediately, and then terminates PrtScr.

The parameter l can be added to any parameter combination.

Virtual Key Codes

The following table shows the symbolic constant names, hexadecimal values, and keyboard
equivalents for the virtual-key codes used by the Microsoft Windows CE operating system.
The codes are listed in numeric order.

1506

Symbolic constant name

Value (hexadecimal)

Touch screen or keyboard equivalent

VK_LBUTTON

01

Touch screen

VK_CANCEL

03

Control-break processing

--

05-07

undefined

VK_BACK

08

BACKSPACE key

VK_TAB

09

TAB key

--

0A-0B

undefined

VK_CLEAR

0C

CLEAR key

VK_RETURN

0D

ENTER key

--

0E-0F

undefined

VK_SHIFT

10

SHIFT key

VK_CONTROL

11

CTRL key

VK_MENU

12

ALT key

VK_CAPITAL

14

CAPS LOCK key

--

15-19

Reserved for Kanji systems

--

1A

undefined

VK_ESCAPE

1B

ESC key

--

1C-1F

Reserved for Kanji systems

VK_SPACE

20

SPACEBAR key

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Symbolic constant name

Value (hexadecimal)

Touch screen or keyboard equivalent

VK_PRIOR

21

PAGE UP key

VK_NEXT

22

PAGE DOWN key

VK_END

23

END key

VK_HOME

24

HOME key

VK_LEFT

25

LEFT ARROW key

VK_UP

26

UP ARROW key

VK_RIGHT

27

RIGHT ARROW key

VK_DOWN

28

DOWN ARROOW key

VK_SELECT

29

SELECT key

--

2A

Original equipment manufacturer-specific (OEMspecific)

VK_EXECUTE

2B

EXECUTE key

VK_SNAPSHOT

2C

PRINT SCREEN key for Windows 3.0 and later

VK_HELP

2F

HELP key

VK_0

30

0 key

VK_1

31

1 key

VK_2

32

2 key

VK_3

33

3 key

VK_4

34

4 key

VK_5

35

5 key

VK_6

36

6 key

VK_7

37

7 key

VK_8

38

8 key

VK_9

39

9 key

--

3A-40

undefined

VK_A

41

A key

VK_B

42

B key

VK_C

43

C key

VK_D

44

D key

VK_E

45

E key

VK_F

46

F key

VK_G

47

G key

VK_H

48

H key

VK_I

49

I key

VK_J

4A

J key

VK_K

4B

K key

VK_L

4C

L key

VK_M

4D

M key

VK_N

4E

N key

VK_O

4F

O key

VK_P

50

P key

VK_Q

51

Q key

VK_R

52

R key

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1508

Symbolic constant name

Value (hexadecimal)

Touch screen or keyboard equivalent

VK_S

53

S key

VK_T

54

T key

VK_U

55

U key

VK_V

56

V key

VK_W

57

W key

VK_X

58

X key

VK_Y

59

Y key

VK_Z

5A

Z key

--

5B-5F

undefined

VK_NUMPAD0

60

Numeric keypad 0 key

VK_NUMPAD1

61

Numeric keypad 1 key

VK_NUMPAD2

62

Numeric keypad 2 key

VK_NUMPAD3

63

Numeric keypad 3 key

VK_NUMPAD4

64

Numeric keypad 4 key

VK_NUMPAD5

65

Numeric keypad 5 key

VK_NUMPAD6

66

Numeric keypad 6 key

VK_NUMPAD7

67

Numeric keypad 7 key

VK_NUMPAD8

68

Numeric keypad 8 key

VK_NUMPAD9

69

Numeric keypad 9 key

VK_MULTIPLY

6A

Asterisk (*) key

VK_ADD

6B

Plus sign (+) key

VK_SEPARATOR

6C

Separator key

VK_SUBTRACT

6D

Minus sign (-) key

VK_DECIMAL

6E

Period (,) key

VK_DIVIDE

6F

Slash mark (/) key

--

88-8F

unassigned

--

92-B9

unassigned

--

BA-C0

OEM-specific

--

C1-DA

unassigned

--

DB-E4

OEM-specific

--

E5

unassigned

--

E6

OEM-specific

--

E7-E8

unassigned

--

E9-F5

OEM-specific

VK_ATTN

F6

VK_CRSEL

F7

VK_EXSEL

F8

VK_EREOF

F9

VK_PLAY

FA

VK_ZOOM

FB

VK_NONAME

FC

VK_PA1

FD

VK_EM_CLEAR

FE

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Symbolic constant name

Value (hexadecimal)

Touch screen or keyboard equivalent

VK_LWIN

5B

VK_RWIN

5C

VK_APPS

5D

VK_LSHIFT

A0

VK_RSHIFT

A1

VK_LCONTROL

A2

VK_RCONTROL

A3

VK_LMENU

A4

VK_RMENU

A5

7.7.9.9

How to Output Data from a COM Server in a Report

Introduction
To integrate user-specific data in a WinCC log, you can integrate a COM server in the reporting
system. This COM server makes a log object available in the object palette that can be selected
in the page layout editor and inserted in a page layout. The COM object then provides the userspecific data for output in the log. You find more information in section COM Provider in the
Page Layout Editor.

Available Log Objects

COM object defined by the
user

Serves to output data from data sources of the user in a WinCC log.

Requirements
Knowledge of how to create layouts and insert log objects

Procedure
1. Create a new page layout, and open it in the page layout editor.
2. In the object palette on the COM Server tab, select a COM object integrated by the user,
and drag it to the desired size in the working area.
3. The creator of the COM object makes specifications available on the connection and
selection of the data.
4. Configure the COM object in accordance with the specifications made there.
5. Save the layout.

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6. Create a print job, and select the configured page layout there.
7. Start output by means of the print job in WinCC Explorer or by means of a configured call
in a WinCC picture, for example.

Output Options
You receive information on possible output options from whoever wrote the COM object.

7.8

Appendix

7.8.1

System Layouts for Project Documentation

Introduction
WinCC provides you with a number of system layouts that have fixed associations with print
jobs and are used for project documentation.

Print Jobs and Layouts in the Basic WinCC System

Name of the Print Job

Layout name

@Documentation Alarm Logging

Used for the output of the configuration data of the Alarm Logging.

@AlgCS.RPL (P)

@Documentation Alarm Center

Used for the output of the configuration data of the WinCC Explorer.

@MCPCS.RPL (P)

@Documentation Global Script Actions

Used for the output of the Global Script actions.

@GSC_RACT.RPL (P)

@Documentation Global Script Project function

Used for the output of the Global Script project functions.

@GSC_RPFC.RPL (P)

@Documentation Global Script Standard function

Used for the output of the Global Script standard functions.

@GSC_RSFC.RPL (P)

@Documentation Graphics Designer

Used for the output of the configuration data of the Graphics Designer.

@pdlpic.RPL (P)

@Documentation Graphics Designer Dynamics

@pdlpicDyn.RPL (P)

Used for the output of the configuration data of Graphics Designer pictures.

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Name of the Print Job

Layout name

@Documentation Graphics Designer Overview

Used for the output of the picture statistics and the general display of
Graphics Designer pictures.

@pdlpicOvr.RPL (P)

@Documentation Tag Logging

Used for the output of the configuration data of the Tag Logging.

@TlgCS.RPL (P)

@Documentation Text Library

Used for the output of the configuration data of the text library.

@Textlibrary.RPL (P)

@Documentation User Administrator

Used for the output of the configuration data of the User Administrator.

@UACS.RPL (P)

@Internal Global Script Actions

This print job is started internally.

@gsc_act.RPL (P)

@Internal Global Script Project-function

This print job is started internally.

@gsc_pfc.RPL (P)

@Internal Global Script Standard-function

This print job is started internally.

@gsc_sfc.RPL (P)

@Internal Graphics Designer Actions at the object

This print job is started internally.

@akt_obj.RPL (P)

@Internal Graphics Designer Actions at the property

This print job is started internally.

@akt_prop.RPL (P)

You can start project documentation in the application or by starting the corresponding print
job in WinCC Explorer.

Print Jobs and Layouts of the WinCC Option Basic Process Control
Name of the Print Job

Layout name

@Documentation Horn

Used for the output of the configuration data of the horn
editor.

@Horn(landscape).RPL (P)

@Documentation Lifebeat Monitoring

Used for the output of the configuration data of the Lifebeat
Monitoring.

@LBMCS.RPL (P)

@Documentation LTO Component List

Used for the output of the configuration data of the
component list editor.

@LTOBausteinliste(landscape).RPL (P)

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Name of the Print Job

Layout name

@Documentation OS Project Editor

Used for the output of the configuration data of the OS
project editor.

@Projecteditor.RPL (P)

@Documentation Picture Tree Manager

Used for the output of the configuration data of the Picture
Tree Manager.

@PTMCS.RPL (P)

@Documentation Signal Collection

Used for the output of the configuration data of the signal
collection.

@SCollect.RPL (P)

@Documentation Time Synchronization

@TimeSync(landscape).RPL (P)

Internal System Page Layouts

The page layouts listed in the table below are involved in the standard project documentation
and should not be edited. If you change these layouts, it affects project documentation.

1512

Name of the Print Job

Layout name

Involved in project documentation

@Global Script single Action (landscape).RPL

Involved in project documentation

@Global Script single Project Function (landscape).RPL

Involved in project documentation

@Global Script single Standard Function (landscape).RPL

Involved in project documentation

@gscract.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@gscrpfc.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@gscrsfc.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL object actions.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL object attributes.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL object direct interconnections.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL object statistics.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture actions.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture attributes.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture direct interconnections.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture drawing.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture embedded objects.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture single action.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDL picture statistics.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDLOBJ object actions.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDLOBJ object attributes.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDLOBJ object direct interconnections.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDLOBJ object single action.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@INC-PDLOBJ object statistics.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL object actions.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL object attributes.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL object direct interconnections.RPL

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Name of the Print Job

Layout name

Involved in project documentation

@PDL object statistics.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL picture actions.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL picture attributes.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL picture direct interconnections.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL picture drawing.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL picture embedded objects.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDL picture statistics.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDLOBJLT.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@PDLPICLT.RPL

Involved in project documentation

@ptmcs (landscape).RPL

Note
The system print jobs provided with WinCC can be neither deleted nor renamed. These
system print jobs have fixed associations with the applications.

7.8.2

System Layouts and Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation

Introduction
WinCC provides you with a number of system layouts that have fixed associations with print
jobs and are used to log Runtime data.

Print Jobs and Layouts in the Basic WinCC System

Name of the Print Job

Function of the Print Job

Layout name

@AlarmControl - Picture

Output of the current display of the

AlarmControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or
higher).

@Alarm Control - Picture.RPL

@AlarmControl - Table

Output of all messages of the select list in a

table from the AlarmControl in Runtime
(WinCC V7 or higher).

@Alarm Control - Table.RPL

@FunctionTrendControl - Picture

Output of the current display of the

FunctionTrendControl in Runtime (WinCC V7
or higher).

@Function Trend Control Picture.RPL

@OnlineTableControl - Picture

Output of the current display of the

OnlineTableControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or
higher).

@Online Table Control Picture.RPL

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Name of the Print Job

Function of the Print Job

Layout name

@OnlineTableControl - Table

Output of all values in a table from the

OnlineTableControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or
higher).

@Online Table Control Table.RPL

@OnlineTrendControl - Picture

Output of the current display of the

OnlineTrendControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or
higher).

@Online Trend Control Picture.RPL

@RulerControl - Picture

@Ruler Control - Picture.RPL

Output of the current display of the
RulerControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or higher).

@RulerControl - Table

@Ruler Control - Table.RPL

Output of all values in a table by the
RulerControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or higher).

@UserArchiveControl - Picture

Output of the current display of the

UserArchiveControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or
higher).

@User Archives Table Control

- Picture.RPL

@UserArchiveControl - Table

Output of all values in a table from the

UserArchiveControl in Runtime (WinCC V7 or
higher).

@User Archives Table Control

- Table.RPL

@Report OnlineTableControl-CP

Output the tables of Online Table Control in

Runtime (WinCC V6.2 or higher).

@CCOnlineTableCtrl-CP.RPL

@Report FunctionTrendControl-CP

Output the trend of Function Trend Control in

Runtime (WinCC V6.2 or higher).

@CCFunctionTrendCtrlCP.RPL

@Report OnlineTrendControl-Curves-CP

@CCOnlineTrendCtrl-CurvesOutput the Online Trend Control trends in

Runtime (from WinCC V6.2 onwards; replaces CP.RPL
the @Report Curve Control Contents as
standard print job).

@Report AlarmControl-CP

Output the messages of Alarm Trend Control

in Runtime (WinCC V6.2 or higher).

@CCAlarmCtrl-CP.RPL

@Report Alarm Logging RT Message

Sequence

Output the message sequence report on a line

printer (WinCC V5.0 SP2 or higher).

@CCAlgRtSequence.RPL

@Report Alarm Logging RT Revolving

archive

Output the revolving archive

(prior to WinCC V5.0 SP2).

@ALRtUmA.RPL

@Report Alarm Logging RT Sequence

archive

Output the revolving archive

(prior to WinCC V5.0 SP2).

@ALRtFoA.RPL

@Report Alarm Logging RT

OnlineMessages

Output the current messages

@CCAlgRtOnline
Messages.RPL

@Report Alarm Logging RT Sequence

archive New

Output the Revolving sequence

(from WinCC V5.0 SP2).

@CCAlgRtSequence
Archive.RPL

@Report Alarm Logging RT Short Term

archive New

Output the Revolving sequence

(from WinCC V5.0 SP2).

@CCAlgRtShortTerm Archiv
e.RPL

@Report Curve Control Contents

Is started internally and is based on a CSV

Provider (from WinCC V6.2 onwards as
standard print job, replaced by @Report
OnlineTrendControl-Curves-CP).

@CCCurveControlContents
(P).RPL

@Report Table Control Contents

Is started internally based on a CSV Provider. @CCTableControlContents

(P).RPL

@Report Tag Logging RT Curves New

Output Tag Logging Trends in Runtime (from

WinCC V5.0 SP2).

@CCTlgtRtCurves.RPL

@Report Tag Logging RT Tables New

Output Tag Logging Tables in Runtime (from

WinCC V5.0 SP2).

@CCTlgRtTables.RPL

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Print Jobs and Layouts of the WinCC Option Basic Process Control
Name of the Print Job

Function of the Print Job

Layout name

@Report Alarm Logging RT

OnlineMessages New

Output messages of the

New List

@CCAlgRtOnlineMessagesNew.RP
L (P)

@Report Alarm Logging RT

OnlineMessages Old

Output messages of the

Old List

@CCAlgRtOnlineMessagesOld.RPL
(P)

@Report Alarm Logging RT

OnlineMessages Gone

Output messages of the

Gone Out List

@CCAlgRtOnlineMessagesGone.R
PL (P)

@Report Alarm Logging RT

OnlineMessages Hidden

Output of Hidden
Messages

@CCAlgRtOnlineMessagesHidden.
RPL (P)

@Report Alarm Logging RT

Sequence archive Journal

Output messages of the

Journal List

@CCAlgRtSequenceArchiveJournal.
RPL (P)

@Report Alarm Logging RT

Sequence archive Operation

Output messages of the

Operation List

@CCAlgRtSequenceArchiveOperati
on.RPL (P)

@Report Alarm Logging RT

Sequence archive Process

Output messages of the

Process List

@CCAlgRtSequenceArchiveProcess
.RPL (P)

@Report Asset Faceplate

Output diagnosis results

of Faceplates

@AssetFaceplate.RPL (P)

Note
The system print jobs provided with WinCC can be neither deleted nor renamed. These
system print jobs have fixed associations with the applications.

7.8.3

Filter criteria for alarm output

Introduction
When the selection criteria are transferred from the selection dialog, the filter criteria for alarm
output are transferred to the Filter Criteria for Alarm Output area. The filter criteria can be edited.

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7.8 Appendix

The following conditions apply to WinCC:

The structure consists of the elements Field, Operand and Value, with the individual
parameters separated by blanks.
Example: DATETIME >= '2006-12-21 00:00:00' AND MSGNR >= 100 (all messages as of
21.12.2006 with a message number greater than and equal to 100)
Strings, date, and time must be passed in single quotation marks.
In the DATETIME argument, the date and time of day are separated by a blank. Regardless
of the time base setting in the object properties, the output of DATETIME is based on the
time base Local Time. Exception: UTC is set as the time base: in this case, the output is
based on time base UTC.

Permissible Arguments:
Name

Type

data

Example:

DATETIME

Date

'YYYY-MM-DD
hh:mm:ss.msmsms'

DATETIME >= '2007-05-03

16:00:00'
Output of message from
05.03.2007
16:00 hours.

MSGNR

Integer

Message number

MSGNR >= 10 AND MSGNR <=

12
Output of messages with
message number 10 -12.

CLASS
IN
AND
TYPE IN

Integer

- Message class ID 1-16 and CLASS IN ( 1 ) AND TYPE IN

system message classes17 ( 2 )
+ 18
Output of messages of message class
- Message type ID 1-256 and 1
system message types 257, message type 2.
258, 273, 274

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7.8 Appendix
Name

Type

data

Example:

STATE

Integer

Value of
ALARM_STATE_xx
Only the operands
"=" and "IN(...)" are
permitted

ALARM_STATE_1
ALARM_STATE_2
ALARM_STATE_3
ALARM_STATE_4
ALARM_STATE_5(*)
ALARM_STATE_6(*)
ALARM_STATE_7(*)
ALARM_STATE_10
ALARM_STATE_11
ALARM_STATE_16
ALARM_STATE_17

STATE IN(1,2,3)
Output of all message that came in,
went out and were
acknowledged.

Possible values:
1 = Came In messages
2 = Went Out messages
3 = acknowledged messages
4 = locked message
5 = released messages
6 = messages that came in and have
been acknowledged
7 = messages that came in and went
out
10 = hidden messages
11 = displayed messages
16 = messages acknowledged by the
system
17 = emergency-acknowledged
messages
The "ALARM_STATE_5",
"ALARM_STATE_6" and
"ALARM_STATE_7" states can only
be output via the "Alarm Logging
Runtime" layout. These states cannot
be selected in the AlarmControl.
(*)

PRIORITY

Integer

Message priority 0 - 16

PRIORITY >= 1 AND PRIORITY =< 5

Outputs messages that have a priority
between 1 and 5.

AGNR

Integer

PLC number

AGNR >= 2 AND AGNR <= 2

Output of messages with
AG number = 2.

AGSUBNR

Integer

AG sub-number

AGSUBNR >= 5 AND AGSUBNR <=

5
Outputs messages with AG subnumber 5.

TEXTxx

Text

Search text for

'Text1'-'Text10'

TEXT2 = "Error"
Outputs the messages whose Text2
corresponds with "Error".
TEXT2 IN ('Error','Fault')
Outputs the messages whose Text2
corresponds with the text "Error" or
"Fault".
TEXT2 LIKE 'Error'
Outputs the messages whose Text2
includes the text "Error".

PVALUExx

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Double

Search text for

PVALUE1-
PVALUE10

PVALUE1 >= 0 AND PVALUE1 <=

50
Output of process value 1 with
start value 0 and stop value 50.

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7.8 Appendix

The following operands are permissible:

>= , <= , = , > , < ,IN(...),LIKE
IN(...): several values in Array separated by commas, e.g. CLASS IN( 1 ,2 ,3 ) AND TYPE
IN( 1 ,2 ,19 ,20 ,37 ,38 )
LIKE: Text must contain string, e.g.: TEXT1 LIKE 'Error' relays message where Text1 contains
the search text Error.
The operand LIKE is only permissible for TEXT arguments.
Arguments and operands other than those mentioned above are not permissible.

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8

Resources

8.1

Creating Page Layouts

Content
The page layout editor is a component of the Report Designer and is used to create and
dynamize page layouts for the output of reports. The page layout editor can only be used for
the project currently open in the WinCC Explorer. The layouts are saved are the basis of their
projects.
This online help will show you
how to set up the page layout editor
how to create and edit page layouts
how to use objects in the object palette
how to adapt the object properties to the requirements of your project
how to change the output options for reports and logs

8.2

How to Start the Page Layout Editor

Introduction
The page layout editor can be opened in several standard Windows ways. The page layout
editor can only be used for the project currently open in the WinCC Explorer.

Requirement
A project must be opened in WinCC Explorer.

Opening the Page Layout Editor

The page layout editor is called from the WinCC Explorer. The following options are available:

Navigation Window/Data Window of WinCC Explorer:

Select the Report Designer entry. The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" subentries are displayed.

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Double-click the "Layouts" entry in the navigation window or select "Layouts" in either the
navigation or data windows in WinCC and select "Open Page Layout" from the context menu.
The page layout editor is started and a new layout is opened.

WinCC Explorer Data Window:

Select the Report Designer entry. The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" subentries are displayed.
In the navigation window, select "Layouts". The available layouts are displayed in the data
window. Double-click a page layout or select "Open Page Layout" from the context menu.
The page layout editor starts and the selected page layout is opened.

See also
The Page Layout Editor (Page1520)

8.3

The Page Layout Editor

8.3.1

The Page Layout Editor

Introduction
The page layout editor offers objects and tools for creating page layouts. Start the page layout
editor in WinCC Explorer.

Structure of the Page Layout Editor

The page layout editor follows the conventions set by Windows. It possesses a workspace,
toolbars, menu bar, status bar and various palettes. After opening the page layout editor, the

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workspace is displayed with the default settings. You can arrange the palettes and bars to your
liking and also hide them.

(1) The Workspace

The gray area represents the printable area, the white area the page body. Each screen in the
workspace represents a layout and is saved as a separate rpl file. The layouts can be enlarged
and reduced according to the Windows standard.

(2) The Menu Bar

The menu bar is always visible. Depending on the context, the functions in the menus are
active or inactive.

(3) The Toolbar

The toolbar provides buttons to quickly perform common commands of the page layout editor.
The toolbar can be hidden if required or moved to any location on the screen.
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(4) The Font Palette

The font palette is used to change font type, size and color of text objects as well as the line
color of standard objects.

(5) The Object Palette

The object palette contains the standard objects, objects for the runtime documentation, COM
server objects and objects for the project documentation. The objects are used to form a layout.

(6) The Style Palette

The style palette is used to change the appearance of a selected object. Depending on the
object, the line type, line strength or fill pattern can be changed.

(7) The Alignment Palette

The alignment palette is used to change the absolute position of one or more objects, change
the position of selected objects relative to each other or unify the height and width of several
objects.

(8) The Zoom Palette

The zoom palette offers two options to enlarge or reduce the objects of the active layout: either
via buttons of the standard zoom factors or via a slider.

(9) The Color Palette

The color palette is used to color selected objects. In addition to the 16 standard colors, custom
colors can be defined.

(10) The Status Bar

The status bar is located at the bottom of the screen and can be hidden if required. Among
other things, it displays tips, information about the position of the selected objects and the
keyboard setting.

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See also
The Alignment Palette (Page1533)
The Status Bar (Page1538)
The Color Palette (Page1536)
The Zoom Palette (Page1535)
The Style Palette (Page1533)
The Object Palette (Page1525)
The Font Palette (Page1537)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1523)

8.3.2

The Standard Toolbar

Usage
The toolbar is located in its default position under the menu bar, on the upper edge of the page
layout editor. The buttons arranged on the toolbar allow quick and comfortable access to the
offered functionality of the page layout editor.

Contents
The standard toolbar contains buttons with the following functions:
Button

Function

Key combination

Creates a new page layout.

<CTRL+N>

Opens an existing page layout.

<CTRL+O>

Saves the current page layout.

<CTRL+S>

Cuts out the highlighted object (text or drawing object) and copies
it to the clipboard. Therefore the function is only available when an
object is highlighted.

<CTRL+X>

Copies the highlighted object (text or drawing object) to the

clipboard. Therefore the function is only available when an object
is highlighted

<CTRL+C>

Pastes the contents of the clipboard at the location of the cursor.

This function is only available, when the clipboard is not empty.

<CTRL+V>

Undoes the last actions (maximum of 30). This function is only

available when an action has been carried out.

<CTRL+Z>

Redoes the last undone action. This function is only available when <CTRL+A>
an action has been undone.

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Button

Function

Key combination

Prints the contents of the current page layout. Therefore, the

function is only available when a page layout is open.

<CTRL+P>

Makes the static part of a layout active and the dynamic part
inactive. If the static part is already active, it remains active. The
static part can be individually defined for the cover sheet, the
succeeding pages and for the closing page. The same static part
will be repeated on all of the succeeding pages.

Makes the dynamic part of a layout active and the static part
inactive. If the dynamic part is already active, it remains active.

Makes the cover sheet of a layout active and the contents of the
report and the closing page inactive. If the cover sheet page type
is already active, it remains active.

Makes the report contents of a layout active and the cover sheet
and closing page inactive. If the report contents page type is
already active, it remains active.

Makes the closing page of a log active and the cover sheet and
report contents inactive. If the closing page page type is already
active, it remains so.

Puts the highlighted objects in the layer in the foreground of the

layout. The objects in the foreground cover objects which lie under
them.

Puts the highlighted objects in the layer in the background of the

layout. Objects in the background are covered by objects lying in
front of them.

Switches the grid in the active window on or off.

Switches the "Snap to Grid" function on or off.

Increases the zoom factor in steps of 50%; the layout is shown

enlarged. This function is only active until the largest zoom factor
(400%) has been reached.

Decreases the zoom factor in steps of 50%; the layout is shown

smaller. This function is only active until the smallest zoom factor
(6.25%) has been reached.

Zooms to any picture section you choose. This will be adjusted to

fit the picture window.

Copies the properties of an object to apply them to another object. Applies the previously copied properties of an object to another
object. The function is only active when properties have been
previously copied.

Opens a window in which the properties of the highlighted object

or object group are displayed.

Activates the direct help (What's this?).

<SHIFT+F1>

Characteristics
The toolbar can be hidden or shown. It can be attached under the menu bar. When it is not
attached it can be positioned anywhere on the screen with the mouse.

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See also
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page1541)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.3

The Object Palette

8.3.3.1

The Object Palette

Usage
The object palette contains object types that can be inserted into the page layout. Static objects
and system objects are available for the visual construction of the page layout. Dynamic objects
are available for data output.

Contents
The objects in the object palette can be summarized in the following 4 object groups:
Standard objects: static objects, dynamic objects and system objects
Objects of the runtime documentation: for example Alarm Logging RT, user archive runtime,
CSV provider,etc.
COM server objects
Project documentation objects: for example actions in the Graphics Designer, Alarm
Logging CS, Global Script, etc.

Operation
Click one of the tabs and select the object you want.

Characteristics
The object palette can be shown and hidden. It can be moved anywhere on the screen with
the mouse.

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See also
Standard Objects (Page1526)
Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1532)
COM Server Objects (Page1531)
Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1529)

8.3.3.2

Standard Objects

Standard Objects
Usage
Standard objects contain object types that are used to visually construct the page layout.
Dynamic object types can also be used for this, unlike objects for runtime documentation and
project documentation, which are not connected to the WinCC components.

Overview
Standard objects can be divided into three object classes:
Static objects are used for the visual creation of a page layout. You can insert static objects
into both the static and dynamic parts of a page layout.
Dynamic objects can be connected with data sources which have a valid data format for
the current object. That way these data can be output in a WinCC layout. You can only
insert dynamic objects in the dynamic part of the page layout.
System objects are used as placeholders for the system time, the current page number
and the project and layout names. You can only use system objects in the static part of the
page layout. The required entries are described in the "Format" attribute in the
"Miscellaneous" property of the system object.

Shared Properties
The object properties (e.g. geometry, color) of the individual standard objects are preset.
However, these defaults can be changed. The objects are displayed with the standard
object properties.
The properties of the displayed objects can be changed at any time.

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
Overview of the System Objects (Page1529)
Overview of the Dynamic Objects (Page1528)
Overview of the Static Objects (Page1527)

Overview of the Static Objects

Introduction
Static objects are used for the visual creation of a page layout. You can insert standard objects
in both the static and dynamic parts of a page layout.

Overview
Icon

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Object

Description

Line

The line is an open object. The length and angle of a line are determined
by the height and width of the rectangle around the object.

Polygon

The polygon is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern.
A polygon can have any number of corner points; these are numbered
in the order of their creation and can be changed individually, or even
deleted.

Polyline

The polyline is an open object. Even if the start and finish point have
the same coordinates, the area cannot be filled. A polyline can have
any number of corner points; these are numbered in the order of their
creation and can be changed individually, or even deleted.

Ellipse

The ellipse is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern.
The height and width of an ellipse can be modified as desired to allow
it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Circle

A circle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A

circle can be resized at will.

Ellipse segment

The ellipse segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or
pattern. The height and width of an ellipse segment can be modified
as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Pie segment

The pie segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or
pattern. A pie segment can be resized at will.

Ellipse arc

The ellipse arc is an open object. The height and width of an ellipse arc
can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or
vertically.

Circular arc

The circular arc is an open object. A circular arc can be resized at will.

Rectangle

The rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern.
The height and width of a rectangle can be modified as desired to allow
it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

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Icon

Object

Description

Rounded
rectangle

The rounded rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color
or pattern. The height and width of a rounded rectangle can be modified
as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically. The corners
of a rounded rectangle can rounded as much as desired.

Static text

The field for static text is a closed object that can be filled with a color
or pattern. The static text is entered into a field of any desired size. The
text can be entered on one or more lines.

OLE object

You can import the contents of a file or new object into a layout with
any data type, e.g. an Adobe Acrobat document.

Static metafile

You can insert graphic data into a layout with the "Static Metafile"
object. The graphic files must be in the *.emf (Enhanced Meta File)
format.

See also
Overview of the System Objects (Page1529)
Overview of the Dynamic Objects (Page1528)
Standard Objects (Page1526)

Overview of the Dynamic Objects

Introduction
With dynamic objects, you can set the data you want to output in a report/log from different
data sources. You can only insert dynamic objects in the dynamic part of the page layout.

Overview
Icon

Object

Description

Embedded layout Layouts for the project documentation can be nested with the
"Embedded Layout" dynamic object. The object is only used for the
project documentation in ready-made layouts for WinCC.

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Hard copy

With the "Hard Copy" object type, you can output a picture of the
current screen, contents or a defined section of it, in a log. You can
also output a currently selected picture window.

ODBC database
field

With the "ODBC Database Field" object type, you can output texts
from some data sources into a log via the ODBC interface.

ODBC database
table

With the "ODBC Database Table" object type, you can output tables
from some data sources into a log via the ODBC interface.

Tag

Output the "Variable" values in runtime with the Tag object type. Tag
values can only be output if the project is activated. In runtime you can
also call a script for the output.

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See also
Overview of the System Objects (Page1529)
Overview of the Static Objects (Page1527)
Standard Objects (Page1526)

Overview of the System Objects

Introduction
System objects are used as placeholders for the system time, current page number of the
report and project and layout names. You can only use system objects in the static part of the
page layout.

Overview
Icon

Object

Description

Date/time

Insert a placeholder for the date and time of the output in the page layout
with the "Date/Time" system object. During printing, the system date and
time are added by the computer.

Page number

Insert a placeholder for the current page number of the report or log in
the page layout with the "Page Number" system object.

Project name

Insert a placeholder for the project name in the page layout with the
"Project Name" system object.

Layout name

Insert a placeholder for the layout name in the page layout with the
"Layout Name" system object.

See also
Standard Objects (Page1526)
Overview of the Static Objects (Page1527)
Overview of the Dynamic Objects (Page1528)

8.3.3.3

Objects for the Runtime Documentation

Application
The runtime documentation objects are for outputting logs of the runtime data. The output
options can be configured using the "Object Properties" dialog. The data for the logs are taken

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from the linked data sources at the time of the output. You can only insert the runtime
documentation objects in the dynamic part of the page layout.

Overview

1530

Object

Description

Alarm Logging RT
Archive Log

The "Archive Report" object is connected to the message system and outputs
the messages saved in the message archive to a table.

Alarm Logging RT
Message Log

The "Message Report" object is connected to the message system and outputs
the current messages in the message list to a table.

User archive
Runtime
Table

The "User Archive Runtime Table" object is connected to the User Archive and
outputs the runtime data from the user archives and views to a table.

CSV provider table

The "CSV Provider Table" object can be linked to a CSV file. The data contained
in the file are output to a table. The data must be in a predefined structure.

CSV Provider
Trend

The "CSV Provider Trend" object can be linked to a CSV file. The data contained
in the file are output in a curve. The data must be in a predefined structure.

WinCC Alarm
Control
Table

The "WinCC Alarm Control/Table" object is used to output the message lists in
a tabular format. You configure the static and dynamic parameters of the control
for the output in Reports Designer.

WinCC Control
Runtime
Printprovider
Table

The entire contents of the table of a WinCC control is output in the table. The
report object is not available for the WinCC OnlineTrendControl and WinCC
FunctionTrendControl. The report can only be output via the button in the
WinCC control.

WinCC Control
Runtime
Printprovider
Picture

The current control display is output in the picture. The report can only be output
via the button in the WinCC control.

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Object

Description

WinCC Function
Trend Control
Picture

The "WinCC Function Trend Control/Picture" object is used to output process

data as function of another tag from the process value, compression and user
archives in the form of a trend. You configure the static and dynamic parameters
of the control for the output in Reports Designer.

WinCC Online Table

Control
Table

The "WinCC Online Table Control/Table" object is used to output process data
from the associated process value archives and compressed archives in a
tabular format. You configure the static and dynamic parameters of the control
for the output in Reports Designer.

WinCC Online Trend

Control
Picture

The "WinCC Online Trend Control/Picture" object is used to output process data
from the associated process value archives and compressed archives in trend
curve format. You configure the static and dynamic parameters of the control
for the output in Reports Designer.

Common features
The object properties (e.g. font) of the individual objects are preset. However, these defaults
can be changed. The objects are displayed with the default object properties.
The properties of the displayed objects can be changed at any time.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)

8.3.3.4

COM Server Objects

Usage
In order to use a COM server object, a COM server projector must be integrated into WinCC.
This COM server makes the object for logging data available. This way, it is possible to
integrate user-specific data in a WinCC log. The form and properties of a COM server object
are determined by the COM server writer. The description of the COM server object is delivered
with the COM server writer. The options for selecting the output data are determined by the
current COM server object. The COM server objects can only be inserted into the dynamic
part of a page layout. Additional information can be found in chapter "Working with COM Server
Objects".

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8.3.3.5

Objects for the Project Documentation

Usage
The project documentation objects are provided for the report output of configured data. The
objects for project documentation can only be inserted into the dynamic part of a page layout.

The objects for project documentation are closely connected with the WinCC components.
The object types are fixed. Depending on the type and size of the configuration data for the
output, the "Static Text", "Dynamic Metafile" or "Dynamic Table" object types are used. A
detailed description of the objects used and the output data can be found in chapter "Outputting
Project Documentation".
For some of the objects used with the "Dynamic Metafile" and "Dynamic Table" object types,
you can change the selection of the configuration data for output. Additional information can
be found in chapter "Working with Objects for Project Documentation".

Shared Properties
The object properties (e.g. font) of the individual objects are preset. However, these defaults
can be changed. The objects are displayed with the default object properties.
The properties of the displayed objects can be changed at any time.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

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8.3.4

The Style Palette

Usage
The line type, line weight and background pattern of the selected object can be changed with
the style palette. Depending on the object type, different style forms are available.

Contents
The "Line Type" style group contains different line types, such as dashed, dotted, etc.
The "Line Weight" style group contains different line weights. The line weight is given in
pixels. 1 mm = 4.73 pixels.
The "Fill Pattern" style group contains fill patterns for the background of closed objects,
such as transparent, checkered, diagonal lines, etc.

Displaying the Current Settings

The currently selected settings are displayed in "bold" font.

Characteristics
The style palette can be shown or hidden. It can be placed anywhere on the screen with the
mouse.

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.5

The Alignment Palette

Usage
The alignment palette is used to:
change the absolute position of one or more objects
change the position of the selected objects relative to one another
align the heights and widths of several objects.

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Requirements
The palette buttons are enabled when at least two objects are highlighted.

Overview
Button

Function
Align objects left.
The type of selection determines which object is used as reference for
alignment.
If the objects are selected with a selection frame (lasso), the object lying farthest out
will be used as reference. If the objects are selected with the left mouse button, the
object selected first will be used as reference for alignment.
Align objects right.
See section "Align Objects Left" to determine which object will be used as reference for
alignment.
Align objects top.
See section "Align Objects Left" to determine which object will be used as reference for
alignment.
Align objects bottom.
See section "Align Objects Left" to determine which object will be used as reference for
alignment.
Align objects on horizontal center.
The objects are moved to be aligned along a common central horizontal axis.
Align objects on vertical center.
The objects are moved to be aligned along a common central vertical axis.
Distribute objects evenly in horizontal direction.
The objects maintain the same horizontal distance from one another.. The location of
the outer objects remains unchanged.
Distribute objects evenly in vertical direction.
The objects maintain the same vertical distance from one another.. The position of the
upper and lower objects remains unchanged.
Standardize width of objects.
If the objects were selected with the left mouse button, they receive the width of the first
object selected. The width of lines remains however unchanged.
If the objects were selected using a selection frame (lasso), the widths will be adjusted
to the largest width in the group.

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Button

Function
Standardize heights of objects.
If the objects were selected with the left mouse button, they receive the height of the
first object selected.
If the objects were selected using a selection frame (lasso), the heights will be adjusted
to the largest height in the group.
Standardize width and height of objects.
The objects receive the width and height of the first object configured in the group.

Characteristics
The alignment palette can be show and hidden. It can be placed anywhere on the screen with
the mouse.

See also
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page1567)
How to Align Multiple Objects (Page1568)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.6

The Zoom Palette

Usage
The zoom factor for the objects in the active layout is set with the zoom palette. The current
zoom factor is displayed under the slider. The zoom palette offers two options for enlarging or
reducing the objects:
using buttons with standard zoom factors (e.g. 8, 1/2)
using a slider.

Characteristics
The zoom palette can be shown and hidden. It can be placed anywhere on the screen with
the mouse.

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Note
The zoom factor can also be set incrementally using the
toolbar.

and

button in the standard

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.7

The Color Palette

Usage
Selected objects can be assigned one of the 16 standard colors, a primary color or a selfdefined color with the color palette. For example, one mouse click in the color palette can
change:
the fill color for area objects (e.g. rectangle),
the line color for line objects (e.g. polyline),
the background color of text objects.

Characteristics
The color palette can be shown and hidden. It can be placed anywhere on the screen with the
mouse.

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See also
The Colors Property Group (Page1579)
How to Create Custom Colors (Page1539)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.8

The Font Palette

Usage
A new text object or another object which contains text will be created with preset text
properties. The font palette contains tools for changing the font, size and color of text objects,
as well as the line color of standard objects, at any time.

Overview
Button

Description
Changing font
Change font size
Change font color
Change line color.
For area objects, this function influences the color of the borderline
and for line objects it influences the line color.

Characteristics
The font palette can be shown and hidden. It can be placed anywhere on the screen with the
mouse.
Note
Additional text properties, such as orientation, italic, bold, underline, are changed in the
"Object Properties" window.

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See also
The Font Property Group (Page1584)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.9

The Status Bar

Usage
The status bar provides you with the following information:
help text for a selected functions, menu commands and buttons
information about the name, position and size of a highlighted object
information about the keyboard status (e.g. the NUM LOCK key).

Characteristics
The status bar can be shown or hidden.

See also
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.10

Customizing the Working Environment

8.3.10.1

Customizing the Working Environment

Operator Elements of the Page Layout Editor

You can adjust the following operator elements to your personal needs:
The toolbars can be shown and hidden.
Icons can be added to and removed from the standard toolbar.
Changes to the standard toolbar can be blocked or allowed.
Toolbars and palettes can be arranged elsewhere on the screen.
The appearance of the toolbar can be changed.
The display of the keyboard shortcuts in the menus can be switched off.

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Basic Page Layout Editor Settings

You can adjust the following functions in the page layout editor to your personal needs:
Snap objects to the grid or not
Hide or show the grid
Grid width and height in pixels, centimeters or inches
Defining the type of object selection surrounding or touching
Object types in the object palette can be selected or deselected according to the insertion
of an object
Configuration settings for the page layout editor can be saved or not when quitting the
program
Storage type and path for the objects' default settings

See also
The Basic Settings of the Page Layout Editor (Page1543)
How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1546)
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page1541)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.10.2

How to Create Custom Colors

Introduction
In addition to the 16 basic colors from the Color Palette, you are free to define other colors.

Procedure
1. On the Color Palette, click

. The "Colors" dialog is opened.

2. Click the primary color that comes closest to the color to be created.
3. To change the selected color, open the color matrix using the "Define Colors" button.
4. Change the brightness of the selected color with the slider to the right of the color matrix.
5. Change the saturation of the selected color by vertically moving the cross.

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6. Change the color by horizontally moving the cross.
7. To define the properties of the color more precisely, enter the values for the color,
saturation, brightness, and the red, green and blue amounts.
8. To accept the color in the user-defined palette, click the "Add Colors" button.
9. Close the dialog by clicking "OK". The newly defined color is saved.

See also
The Colors Property Group (Page1579)
The Color Palette (Page1536)

8.3.10.3

How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes

Introduction
Normally, the standard toolbar and palettes are shown. In order to obtain a larger working area,
you can hide palettes that you do not need and the standard toolbar and show them again as
required.

Procedure
1. Open the "View" menu and select the "Toolbars..." option. The "Toolbars" dialog is opened.
2. Clear the check box for the toolbar to be hidden. Alternatively, select the check box for the
toolbar to be shown.
3. If the dialog should remain open so that you can make additional settings on other tabs,
click "Apply".
4. If you would like to restore the most recently saved settings, click the "Restore" button.
5. Apply the new settings with "OK". The settings will be saved and the dialog is closed.

See also
How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1546)
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page1541)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.10.4

How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes

Introduction
The standard toolbar and the palettes are normally arranged along the edge of the screen.
You can remove them from their anchoring, change their size and move them anywhere you
like. The toolbar and palettes can be reanchored in any location.

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Special features
The size of a palette can only be changed when it is not anchored.
When you reanchor a palette, its size will not be adjusted to the free space on the edge of
the screen. Therefore, you must adjust the size of the palette to fit the free space before
anchoring it.
When you close the page layout editor, the changed palette positions are saved and used
again the next time the program is started.

How to Undock the Palette

1. Click on the narrow, outer edge of the palette, hold down the mouse button and drag the
palette into the working area. Now you can resize the palette as desired in the normal
Windows way.

Procedure for Restoring the Original Position

1. Open the toolbar dialog by selecting the menu "View" > "Toolbars...".
2. Click the "Restore" button.

Procedure for Docking the Palette

1. Adjust the size of the palette to the free space on the edge of the screen.
2. Click on the title bar of the palette, hold down the mouse button and drag the palette to the
free space on the edge of the screen. The position of the cursor determines the place where
the palette will be anchored. If the palette is to be moved between two others, the cursor
should be placed on the lower edge of the upper palette.
Note
The changes in position can be undone, so long as the page layout editor is open; changes
you have made will be saved when the program is closed.

See also
How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1546)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)

8.3.10.5

How to Change the Standard Toolbar

Application
You can use drag and drop to adjust the standard toolbar to your requirements, that is adding,
removing or rearranging buttons.

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Requirements
On the "Menu/Toolbars" tab in the "Settings" window of the "Tools" menu, all of the checkboxes
in the "Standard Toolbar" area must be marked.

Procedure for Removing Buttons

1. Hold down the "Alt" key.
2. Use the mouse to drag the button from the toolbar.

Procedure for moving buttons

1. Hold down the "Alt" key.
2. Use the mouse to drag the button to another place on the toolbar.

Procedure for Adding/Removing Buttons

1. Hold down the "Alt" key.
2. Double-click a button. The "Customize Toolbar" window opens.

3. Add: Drag the desired button from the Available buttons list to the Current Buttons
list.
Remove: Drag the desired button from the Current Buttons list to the Available Buttons list.
4. Set the order of the buttons on the toolbar using the "Move up" and "Move down" buttons
in this dialog.
5. You can restore the original state by clicking on the "Reset" button.
6. The changes will be applied and the dialog closed when you click on the "Close" button.

See also
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1546)

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8.3.10.6

The Basic Settings of the Page Layout Editor

The Basic Settings of the Page Layout Editor

Usage
In the Settings window, you can make basic settings in order to adjust the appearance and
behavior of the page layout editor to meet your needs. The settings will be saved and retained
when you open the page layout editor again.

Calling:
The window can be called
from the menu Tools > Settings and
from the menu View > Grid.

Setting Options
Tab

Description

Grid

This is where you can set:

whether the objects should snap to the grid,
whether the grid should be visible,
the distance between the grid points

Options

This is where the fundamental program settings are changed, for example what should
happen with altered program settings when the program is closed, or how objects should
be selected and edited.

Units

This is where you choose which units of measurement you would like to use for entering
the size of coordinates, text height and line width.

Menu /
Toolbars

This is where the appearance and properties for the menu bar, toolbar and palettes can
be set, for example whether the standard toolbar should be configurable, whether the
keyboard shortcuts should be shown, etc.

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See also
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)
How to Set the Options for the configuration settings (Page1545)
How to Set the Grid (Page1544)

How to Set the Grid

Usage
In order to be able to work precisely in the working area, you can show a grid on the working
area with the Display Grid function. If you also have the Snap to Grid function switched on, all
newly created objects will be automatically aligned to the grid points.

Possible Settings
Snapping to Determines whether the objects should be positioned anywhere on the
grid
drawing area or aligned to the grid.
Display grid Determines whether the grid should be visible or not. If the grid is invisible,
objects still align to it when the Snap to Grid option is switched on.
Width in/
Changes the distance between grid points as necessary. Set the units for the
Height in
size entry in the Units tab. The grid width to be set is oriented to the size and
variety of objects and to the desired positioning precision.

Procedure
1. Open the Tools menu and select the entry Settings. The Settings dialog opens.
2. Change the individual settings as required by selecting or clearing the check boxes.
3. If you want to keep the dialog open to make changes in other tabs, confirm the changes
you have made with the Apply button.
4. Save the settings with OK.

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Note
The minimum grid separation that can be displayed on the screen is 10 pixels. If you set a
smaller value (e.g. 6 pixels), you can still align your objects to this grid, but the next even
numbered multiple of this value > 10 pixels will be displayed on the screen (in this case 12
pixels).

See also
How to Set the Options for the configuration settings (Page1545)
How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1546)

How to Set the Options for the configuration settings

Usage
On the options tab, you can set whether the configuration settings in this dialog are saved
when the program is closed. This is also where you can choose the method of selecting objects.

Possible Settings
Save settings on exit
Object selection
Surrounding/touching

Always reset object type

selection

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Determines whether the settings for the page layout editor are
saved when the program closes.
Surrounding: A frame will be drawn when the left mouse button
is held down, so that all objects that are completely within this
frame will be selected.
Touching: A frame will be drawn when the left mouse button is
held down, so that all objects touched by this frame will be
selected.
If this option is enabled, an object will be deselected as soon as
it is pasted into the layout. If the option is disabled, the object will
remain selected after it has been pasted into the layout. With this
method, you can paste the same object several times without
having to reselect the object.

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Procedure
1. Open the Tools menu and select the entry Settings. The Settings dialog opens.
2. Click the Options tab.
3. Change the individual settings as required by selecting or clearing the check boxes.
4. If you want to keep the dialog open to make changes in other tabs, confirm the changes
you have made with the Apply button.
5. Save the settings with OK.

See also
How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1546)
How to Set the Grid (Page1544)

How to Change the Appearance of the Toolbar and Palettes

Usage
The appearance of the standard toolbar and the palettes in the page layout editor can be
adjusted to meet your requirements and preferences.

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Possible Settings
Flat style for toolbars Determines whether the buttons on the toolbar and palettes are
displayed with a border or without.
Display move
Determines whether the buttons on the toolbar and palettes are
handles
displayed with move handles or without.
Display buttons in the Determines whether the buttons on the toolbar will be shown in the
menu
menus on the menu bar.
Display all shortcuts Determines whether the keyboard shortcuts for the menu commands
will be shown in the menus on the menu bar.
Deactivated buttons Determines whether deactivated buttons on the toolbar and palettes
in color
are displayed in color or grayed out.
Standard toolbar:
Determines whether the standard toolbar can be changed. If this
customizable
option is enabled, the Toolbar dialog can be opened with [ALT
+double-click].
Standard
If this option is enabled, the icons on the toolbar can be moved or
toolbar:
removed with the mouse by holding down the ALT key.
Drag&drop with ALT
key active

Procedure
1. Open the Tools menu and select the entry Settings. The Settings dialog opens.
2. Click the Menu/Toolbars tab.
3. Change the individual settings as required by marking or clearing the check boxes.
4. If you want to keep the dialog open to make changes in other tabs, confirm the changes
you have made with the Apply button.
5. Save the settings with OK.

See also
How to Change the Standard Toolbar (Page1541)
How to Arrange the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
How to Show and Hide the Toolbar and Palettes (Page1540)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1523)
How to Set the Options for the configuration settings (Page1545)
How to Set the Grid (Page1544)

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8.4 Working with Layouts

8.4

Working with Layouts

8.4.1

Working with Layouts

Introduction
The difference between a layout in the sense of a file and a layout as an object must be clearly
understood. In this chapter, we will describe dealing with a layout in the form of a file. A layout
opened in the page layout editor is treated as an object. The layout object has object properties
and can be edited accordingly. Additional information can be found in the chapter "Working
with the layout object".
In this chapter we will show you how to create layouts, display the properties of layouts and
how to work with several layouts. WinCC comes with several ready-made layouts for most
standard applications. So it is often simpler and less time consuming to save one of these
layouts under a new name and adapt it to your own requirements, than to create a new layout.
Note
Language-Neutral and Language-Dependent Layouts
There are language-neutral and language-dependent layouts. Language-neutral layouts
have the following designation: "<Name of the layout>.rpl". Language-neutral layouts are
saved in folder "\\<Name of system on which the layout was created>\Project name\PRT".
Language-dependent page layouts contain layout files with the following designation:
"<Name of the layout>_XXX.rpl". "XXX" stands for the language code of the layout file. The
language-specific layout file is saved in a language-specific folder in folder "\\<Name of the
system on which the layout was created>\Project name\PRT".
Create layout files in all Runtime languages for a language-dependent layout. If the layout
file of a Runtime language is missing, the English layout file will be used.
The following table shows the language code and the designations of the folders in folder "\
\<Name of the system on which the layout was created>\Project name".

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Language

Language Code in File Names

Language-specific folder

Language-neutral

\PRT

German

DEU

\PRT\DEU

English

ENU

\PRT\ENU

French

FRA

\PRT\FRA

Italian

ITA

\PRT\ITA

Spanish

ESP

\PRT\ESP

Simplified Chinese

CHS

\PRT\CHS

Traditional Chinese

CHT

\PRT\CHT

Korean

KOR

\PRT\KOR

Japanese

JPN

\PRT\JPN

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8.4 Working with Layouts

Configuration steps
1. Create a new page layout.
2. Design the outward appearance in the static part of the layout and save the newly designed
layout as a template.
3. Apply the design in the layout for the output.

Editing Options
In order to configure quickly, use the various program functions such as:
Save Layout under New Name
Applying Object Properties to Other Objects
Coping or Transferring Objects in Other Layouts
Adopting Fully Designed Objects and Layouts from Other Projects
Note
This path of the layouts is retained when you duplicate a project or load it on a target
machine. While printing, the system first tries to load the layout using the entered path. If
that is not possible, the system searches the layout in the project path of the local computer.

See also
Working with Objects (Page1558)
Working with Multiple Layouts (Page1556)
Changing Predefined Layouts (Page1554)
How to Display the Layout Properties (Page1553)
Layout File Operations (Page1549)

8.4.2

Layout File Operations

Introduction
Because layouts are saved as independent files with the extension .rpl, you can carry out the
usual file operations in the page layout editor or in WinCC Explorer. Many file operations can
be carried out in the page layout editor and the WinCC Explorer. Layouts are saved as separate
files.

Layout files of language-neutral layouts

The layout file of a language-neutral layout is saved in the "PRT" folder of the WinCC project.

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Layout files of language-dependent layouts

You must create layout files in the Runtime languages for a language-dependent layout. The
name of the layout file contains the language code, e.g. NewRPL01_ENU.RPL and
NewRPL01_ESP.RPL.
The "PRT" folder of the WinCC project contains a folder for each language installed with
WinCC. The language-specific layout files must be saved in the corresponding languagespecific folder. The current Runtime language determines which layout file is used.
1. Single-language configuration
You are making configurations in English for English-speaking operators.
New layouts are saved e.g. under the file name "NewRPL01_ENU.RPL". The layout file is
saved in folder "\\<Name of computer>\Project name\PRT".
Alternatively, create your own new layouts as language-neutral layouts.
2. Multilingual configuration
You are making configurations for English-speaking and Spanish-speaking operators. The
"NewRPL01" layout must be saved in 2 layout files:
"NewRPL01_ENU.RPL" in folder "\\<Name of the computer>\Project name\PRT\ENU"
"NewRPL01_ESP.RPL" in folder "\\<Name of the computer>\Project name\PRT\ESP"
In the case of multi-language configurations, be sure to make all changes, copies and
deletions to all layout files of a layout.
You can also create language-neutral layouts.

Adding a Layout Language

If you need reports and documentation in other languages, you must create languagedependent layouts. To do this, you must add the language.
1. Select the "Report Designer" editor in WinCC Explorer.
The entries "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" appear in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry and open its context menu.
3. Select the "Add Language ..." command.
4. Select the desired layout language from the list.
You can only add the language-specific folders that use the same codepage. If you need
to edit layout files in languages that need another codepage, you must set up the associated
system locale (operating system language) in the system control of your operating system.
The new language folder is created under the "Layouts" entry. Layout files of the current
language are listed in the right window.

Creating Layout
To create a new report, you first have to create a new layout. Page layouts contain layout files
with ending ".rpl".
1. Select the "Report Designer" editor in WinCC Explorer.
The entries "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" appear in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry and open its context menu.

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3. If necessary, create a new layout language with the "Add Language ..." command.
The layout files of the current language are listed in the right window.
4. Select the desired layout language or the "Language neutral" entry.
5. Select the command "New page layout" from the context menu. A new file with the name
"NewRPLxx.RPL" is created. The numbers in the file names increase consecutively.
6. In order to open the file select "Open page layout" from the layout context menu.
7. The newly created layout is opened in the page layout editor.

Alternative Operation
You can also create a new layout file in the open page layout editor. To do this, select "New"
from the "File" menu. The page layout editor creates an empty layout file. Save the layout file
under the desired name and in the correct folder.

Saving Layout
Note
Language Code in the Layout File
When saving the file, enter the correct language code in the file name, e.g.
NewRPL01_ENU.RPL. Save the layout file in the correct language folder.
1. Select "Save as..." from the "File" menu in the page layout editor.
2. If you choose "Save as...", a dialog will open.
Navigate to the correct folder.
Enter a file name and a language code and save the layout file.
3. The layout file receives extension .rpl.

Opening Layout
1. Select the "Report Designer" editor in WinCC Explorer.
The entries "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" appear in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry.
The existing language directories are displayed in WinCC Explorer.
3. Select the desired language folder and open its context menu.
The layout files of the current language are listed in the right window.
4. Select the desired layout file and select the "Open page layout" command from the context
menu.

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Alternative Operation
If the page layout editor has already been started, you can select "Open" from the "File" menu.
In the file selection dialog, navigate to the desired language directory. Select the desired layout
file and then click on "Open".

Copying a Layout File

You can save layout files under other names and thus copy them, for example to create
variants.
1. Open the layout file to be copied in the page layout editor.
2. To do this, select "Save As..." from the "File" menu.
The Save As... dialog opens.
3. Give the layout file a new name and save the layout file.

Renaming a Layout File

1. Select the "Report Designer" editor in WinCC Explorer.
The entries "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" appear in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry in the data window.
The existing language folders are displayed in WinCC Explorer.
3. Select the desired language folder.
All project layout files in the selected language are listed.
4. Select the desired layout file and select the "Rename page layout" command from the
context menu.
The New Name dialog: is opened.
5. Change the name of the selected layout file and click on the "OK" button. Please pay
attention to the note below.

Deleting a Layout File

1. Select the "Report Designer" editor in WinCC Explorer.
The entries "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" appear in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry in the data window.
The existing language folders are displayed in WinCC Explorer.
3. Select the desired language folder.
All project layout files in the selected language are listed.
4. Select the desired layout file and select the "Delete page layout" command from the context
menu. The layout file will be deleted without a confirmation.

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Note
The system layouts delivered with WinCC are integrated in the project documentation and
cannot be deleted or renamed. To use one of the system layouts for your own purposes,
simply save it under a new name. You can recognize the system layouts by the "@" suffix in
the file name. Please do not use this symbol to name your own layouts.

If you wish to create a page layout using the SIMATIC Manager, you cannot rename or delete
this layout in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to a page layout created in WinCC and
subsequently imported into SIMATIC Manager using the function "Import WinCC Object".
This import changes the WinCC object into a TIA object.

If you copy a page layout using the Report Designer, the copy is created as a WinCC object.
You may rename or copy this copy as a WinCC object.

See also
Working with Multiple Layouts (Page1556)
Changing Predefined Layouts (Page1554)
How to Display the Layout Properties (Page1553)
Working with Layouts (Page1548)

8.4.3

How to Display the Layout Properties

Usage
For each layout file, you can call the creation date, the date of last change and the file size.

Requirements
The WinCC project must be open.

Procedure
1. Select the "Report Designer" editor in WinCC Explorer.
The entries "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" appear in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry in the data window.
The existing language folders are displayed in WinCC Explorer.
3. Select the desired language folder.
All project layout files in the selected language are listed.
4. Select the desired layout file and select the "Properties" entry from the context menu.
The "Properties" window opens.

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8.4 Working with Layouts

See also
Working with Multiple Layouts (Page1556)
Changing Predefined Layouts (Page1554)
Working with Layouts (Page1548)
Layout File Operations (Page1549)

8.4.4

Changing Predefined Layouts

Introduction
You can change the predefined layouts in order to fit your needs better. It is advisable to save
an existing layout file with a new name first and only then to edit the layout file. If you do this,
you can always fall back on the layouts provided with WinCC if you need to.
The system layouts and system print jobs delivered with WinCC are used by the WinCC
components when the report output is triggered (e.g. project documentation in the Graphics
Designer). Therefore, neither the system layouts nor the system print jobs may be deleted or
renamed.
The system files are located in the WinCC directory in the language-specific folders under
folder "..\WinCC\syslay". The language-specific folders in a new project are copied to the
corresponding project directory in the "..\<Project name>\PRT" folder the first time it is
accessed.
The system layouts and system print jobs are created for every new project.

How to Make Changes to the Static Part of a Layout

The header and footer are defined in the static part of a page layout. You can also change the
appearance of the report without changing the dynamic properties of the layout. The static part
of a page in the page layout extends across the entire printable area of the report. You can
individually define the static part for the cover sheet, the report contents and the closing page.
Static objects and system objects are available to you for the design.
The same static part will be repeated on all the succeeding pages of the report contents.

How to activate the static report part:

1. Select "Static Part" from the "View" menu.
Or
activate the static report part using the toolbar.
2. Next add static objects or system objects.

Changes in the dynamic part of a layout

You put together the structure and content of the report for output in this part of the page layout.
There are static, dynamic, and system objects available for defining the report contents. If

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necessary, the dynamic part of the contents of the report is spread across the various
subsequent pages at output, since it is not known until the time of outputhow much data there
is. The first object in the vertical direction in a layout is automatically moved to the upper
dynamic edge during output.

Important:
During the definition of a page layout, you can not predict with absolute certainty on how many
pages the dynamic part will require. The size of the dynamic tables and text fields is determined
by the data which is used at the moment of output. Succeeding objects are moved downward
according to the dynamic size changes.
Generally no line breaks are provided for the output of data in table cells. However, you can
output large amounts of data in a table cell without the data being cut off by:
1. Select the output of the report in landscape format.
2. Select the "Vertical" table format in the table object properties.
3. Set the relative column width of all columns as narrowly as possible.
4. Use the smallest font size possible.
Static objects which are pasted into the static part of a page layout are in a layer below the
dynamic objects. Thus, it can happen that the static objects will be covered by the dynamic
objects, especially by the dynamic extension of a table.

How to enable the report contents for editing:

1. Select "Dynamic Part" from the "View menu".
Or
activate the dynamic report part using the toolbar.
2. Next add static, dynamic or system objects.
3. For dynamic objects, then select the data for output from the "Connect" tab in the
"Properties" dialog.
Note
If you use the "WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider" layout as of WinCC V7, the dynamic
portion of the report is determined by the underlying control. You can no longer make
configurations on the "Connect" tab.

Editing the Objects

Objects in the layout are edited using the "Object properties" dialog. This can be opened using
the toolbar, the pop-up menu for the objects or by double-clicking an object. Please see
"Working with Objects" for more information.

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See also
Changing Predefined Layouts (Page1554)
How to Display the Layout Properties (Page1553)
Working with Layouts (Page1548)
Layout File Operations (Page1549)

8.4.5

Working with Multiple Layouts

Introduction
The page layout editor offers your some options for efficient configuration. In order not to have
to keep repeating the same configuration steps, you can
Save Layout under New Name
Applying Object Properties to Other Objects
Coping or Transferring Objects in Other Layouts
Adopting Fully Designed Objects and Layouts from Other Projects
Note
Language-Neutral and Language-Dependent Layouts
There are language-neutral and language-dependent layouts.
Language-neutral layouts have the following designation: "<Name of the layout>.rpl".
Language-neutral layouts are saved in folder "\\<Name of system on which the layout was
created>\Project name\PRT".
Language-dependent page layouts contain layout files with the following designation:
"<Name of the layout>_XXX.rpl". "XXX" stands for the language code of the layout file.
The language-specific layout file is saved in a language-specific folder in folder "\\<Name
of the system on which the layout was created>\Project name\PRT".
In the case of multi-language configurations, be sure to make all changes, copies and
deletions to all layout files of a layout.
See chapter " Working with Layouts (Page1548) " for further instructions.

Save Layout under New Name

If you want to configure several projects, it is recommended that you first save a layout as a
template. Set the elements which remain the same, such as headers and footers, in this layout.
Set the page format and the orientation. Set the print margins and the dynamic margins. Save
the finished layouts as often as you want under new names. Then you can add the log objects
you want to the individual layouts and set their parameters. You will find more information in
the "Layout File Operations" chapter.

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Applying Object Properties to Other Objects

If you have an object with certain properties in a layout, then you can easily apply these
properties to another object. Use the eyedropper function for this. You will find more information
in the "Transferring Object Properties" chapter.

Coping or Transferring Objects in Other Layouts

This is a very useful function in order to paste already configured objects or object groups into
another layout. In this way, you can, for example, design a complete header and transfer it to
other layouts.
In order to copy an object or object group, highlight the object(s) and copy the selection to the
operating system clipboard. Next open the target layout and paste in the contents of the
clipboard. The contents of the clipboard can be pasted into as many other layouts as desired.
The next time an object is copied, the data in the clipboard will be overwritten.
In order to transfer an object or object group, highlight the object(s) and cut the selection out.
The selection will be copied to operating system clipboard. Then you can proceed with this
selection as with copying.

Adopting Fully Designed Objects and Layouts from Other Projects

If you have already created a project with WinCC, then you can transfer existing layouts to the
new project. You can also transfer objects from an existing layout to a layout in the new project.
There are two options for transferring a complete layout:
1. Navigate to the root directory of the old project using Windows Explorer. Open the "PRT"
folder.
For language-neutral layouts:
Copy the desired layout file and add it to the folder "PRT" of the new project.
For language-dependent layouts:
Open the desired language-dependent folder. Copy the desired layout file and add it to
the language-dependent folder in folder "PRT" of the new project.
Repeat the process for all Runtime languages, if necessary.
2. Open the page layout editor in the new project and click the folder button in the toolbar.
The "Open" dialog will appear.
For language-neutral layouts:
Use this dialog to navigate to the "PRT" folder of the old project. Open the desired layout
file in the page layout editor. Save the layout file in the "PRT" folder of the new project
using the "Save" or "Save as..." function.
For language-dependent layouts:
Use this dialog to navigate to the language-dependent folder in the "PRT" folder of the
old project. Open the desired layout file in the page layout editor. Save the layout in the
language-dependent folder in the "PRT" folder of the new project using the "Save" or
"Save as..." function.
Repeat the process for all Runtime languages, if necessary.

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Requirements
In order to transfer a fully defined object from another project, open the layout which contains
this object in one of the two ways described above. Select the object or group of objects that
you want and copy the selection to the clipboard. Open the target layout and paste in the
contents of the clipboard.
Note
If you are copying system layouts, we recommend creating a backup copy of the new system
layout before overwriting it in the "PRT" folder.

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
Changing Predefined Layouts (Page1554)
How to Display the Layout Properties (Page1553)
Layout File Operations (Page1549)

8.5

Working with Objects

8.5.1

Working with Objects

Introduction
In this chapter, you will learn
which basic functions of the page layout editor can be used for working with objects
what characteristics the individual objects have
how to use objects to create layouts
how to specifically change object properties
You will find a description of the available objects in the chapter on the Object Palette.

See also
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
The Object Palette (Page1525)

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8.5.2

The coordinate system in the Report Designer

Introduction
The basis for the definition of position and size entries in the page layout editor is a twodimensional coordinate system. The two axes of the coordinate system, x-axis and y-axis, are
perpendicular to one another and intersect at the coordinate origin. The coordinate origin lies
with the coordinates (X = 0 / Y = 0) in the top left corner of the desktop. Extending from the
coordinate origin, the horizontal X-axis runs in the positive direction to the right edge of the
working area, and the vertical Y-axis runs in the positive direction to the lower edge of the
working area. Thus the values for X and Y displayed in the status bar of the page layout editor
increase when the mouse is moved from the upper left to the lower right of the working area.
Coordinates are displayed in the units set in the Tools/Settings menu on the Units tab.

The position and size of objects in a layout are determined by the coordinates which an object
has in the coordinate system. For example, the position of the object origin is determined by
the attributes Position X and Position Y; thus, it has the coordinates (X = Position X / Y =
Position Y). The values of these attributes describe the distance of the object origin from the
coordinate axes.

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Definition of Origin
The origin is defined as the point of an area or an object that is used as the reference point for
entering position and size. For creating a layout in the page layout editor, the following
reference points are significant:
Coordinate system origin (X = 0 / Y = 0)
= Top left corner of the working area
Picture origin (X = 0 / Y = 0)
= Top left corner of the layout
Object origin (X = position X / Y = position Y)
= Top left corner of the rectangle surrounding the object

Internal Coordinate System of an Object

The validity of the normal coordinate system is canceled for displays within an object. The
following special form is used for the internal coordinate system of an object:
The positive direction of the Y-axis points downward, the positive direction of the X-axis points
to the right.

See also
The Status Bar (Page1538)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)

8.5.3

The Rectangle Surrounding the Object

Introduction
The rectangle surrounding an object is defined as a rectangular frame which lies on the outer
limit of an object. The rectangle surrounding an object is not visible in the page layout editor.
When an object is selected, however, the handles which are used to grab an object for

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changing its size are shown. These handles identify the central axes and corner points of the
rectangle surrounding the object.

The special significance of the rectangle surrounding the object for determining the position
can be illustrated with a circular or ellipse-shaped object as an example:
The position of an object is defined by means of the position of its origin relative to the
coordinate system. The object origin has the coordinates (Position X / Position Y) and is defined
as the upper left corner of the rectangle surrounding the object. Specified in this way, the
position of a circular or ellipse-shaped object can be set clearly.

The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object

The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object appear as soon as an object is selected.
By dragging with the mouse, the size of an object can be modified by shifting a handle to a
new position.
If the mouse pointer is positioned on a handle, it turns into a double arrow. The alignment of
the double arrow indicates the directions in which the handle can be moved:
Horizontal double arrow: The handles on the horizontal center axis can be used to change
the width of the object.
Vertical double arrow: The handles on the vertical center axis can be used to change the
width of the object.
Diagonal double arrow:The handles on the corners of the object can be used to change
the height and width of the object.

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Note
Circular objects can only be changed in terms of their whole size; they do not have handles
for their center axes.

See also
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page1565)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)
The coordinate system in the Report Designer (Page1559)
How to Edit Objects (Page1563)

8.5.4

How to Paste an Object into a Layout

Introduction
A layout is created in the page layout editor by pasting objects from the object palette into a
layout.
In the page layout editor, the various object types have predefined properties. When added,
objects take on these defaults, with the exception of individual geometric properties. After
insertion the properties of an object can be modified. In the same way the default settings for
the object types can be modified as required.
When an object is inserted, the object name assigned as standard is the description of the
object type with a consecutive number. This name can be changed using the Object Name
attribute.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
The Rectangle standard object is shown here as an example for the general procedure for
pasting an object into a layout. Some object types require additional steps. You can learn more
about these additional steps in the detailed description of the individual objects.
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert an object.
2. Click the Rectangle standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
rectangle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the rectangle to the required size.
As soon as you release the mouse, the rectangle is added.

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Alternative Operation
Using the Paste command, the current contents of the clipboard can be pasted into the active
layout as often as you like. If an object has been copied to the clipboard, this command can
be used to paste as many copies of the object as you like, also into different layouts. The Paste
command is available through the respective button in the toolbar, by pressing keys <CTRL
+V> or by selecting Edit/Paste in the menu bar.

See also
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
The Object Palette (Page1525)
How to Edit Objects (Page1563)

8.5.5

How to Edit Objects

Introduction
You can select, position, scale, delete, cut, copy, duplicate and change the properties of objects
in a layout.

Selecting Objects
Select an object of any type by clicking it. As an alternative, you can select the object you want
from the object selection list in the Object Properties window.

Positioning Objects
1. Select the object you want.
2. The mouse pointer changes to a crosshair with arrowheads.
The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object appear as soon as an object is
selected.
3. Hold down the mouse button and move the object to the desired position.
You can also select the object using the arrow keys or by changing the values for the geometric
attributes Position X and Position Y in the Object Properties window.

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Scaling objects
1. Select the object you want.
2. Position the mouse pointer on one of the handles of the object. The mouse pointer will
change to a double arrow. The orientation of the double arrow indicates the direction in
which you can move the handles.
3. Use the mouse to drag the handle to the position you want.
You can also resize the object by changing the values for the geometric attributes Width and
Height in the Object Properties window.

Deleting Objects
1. Select the object you want.
2. Press the DEL key. The selected object is deleted.
You can also delete the selected object by selecting Delete from the pop-up menu or by
selecting Edit/Delete from the menu bar.

Cutting Objects
1. Select the object you want.
2. Click the
button in the toolbar. The selected object will be cut from the layout and copied
to the clipboard.
You can also cut the selected object using the Cut command in the pop-up menu, with the
CTRL+X key combination or by selecting Edit/Cut from the menu bar.

Copying Objects
1. Select the object you want.
2. Click the

button in the toolbar. The selected object will be copied to the clipboard.

You can also copy the selected object using the Copy command in the pop-up menu, with the
CTRL+C key combination or by selecting Edit/Copy from the menu bar.

Duplicating Objects
1. Select the object you want.
2. Select Duplicate from the pop-up menu. A copy of the selected object will be created directly
in the active layout. Position X and Position Y of the copy are approximately 20 pixels higher
than Position X and Y of the original object.
You can also duplicate the selected object by selecting Edit/Duplicate from the menu bar.

See also
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page1565)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)

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8.5.6

Multiple Selection of Objects

8.5.6.1

Multiple Selection of Objects

Introduction
In order to change the properties of several objects at once, all of the objects to be changed
must be selected. This procedure is called "multiple selection".
During a multiple selection, the attributes held by at least one of the selected objects are
displayed in the "Object properties" window. The value of an attribute will only be displayed,
however, if it is the same for all selected objects.
Along with "selection frames" and the "reference object", a multiple selection has two
characteristics which play an important role, for example for the common alignment of the
selected objects. However, these characteristics are not visibly displayed in the page layout
editor.

Making multiple selections

The multiple selection of objects can be made in several ways in the page layout editor:
Multiple selection while pressing the Shift key. Click the objects you want, one after the
other, while holding down the Shift key.
Multiple selection by dragging a selection frame with the mouse. While dragging, a frame
will be shown to help with orientation. The selection is dependent on the type of object
selection set in the page layout editor. For "surrounding object selection", all objects which
are inside the displayed frame are selected. For "touching object selection", all objects
touched by the frame will be selected, in addition to those inside of it.

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Selection Frame of a Multiple Selection

The selection frame encloses all objects in a multiple selection, comparable to the rectangle
surrounding individual objects.

The position and size of the selection frame are dependent on the position of the selected
object. The midpoint of the selection frame corresponds to the common midpoint of the
selected objects. The limit line of the selection frame touches the outer edges of the objects
which have the greatest distance from the common midpoint.
The selection frame is not visible. After finishing the multiple selection, only the handles of the
individual objects will be shown.

Reference Object of a Multiple Selection

During a multiple selection, one of the selected objects will be set as a reference object. For
example, if the "Same width" function is selected in the Alignment palette, then all selected
objects will be set to the same width as the reference object.
If the multiple selection is made by dragging a frame, the first object created is set as the
reference object.

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If the multiple selection is made with the Shift key, the first object selected is set as the reference
object.

See also
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
The Alignment Palette (Page1533)
How to Align Multiple Objects (Page1568)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page1567)

8.5.6.2

How to Select Multiple Objects

Introduction
In order to change the properties of several objects at once, all of the objects to be changed
must be selected. This procedure is called multiple selection.

Requirements
The layout must contain at least two objects.

Procedure
1. On the keyboard hold down the SHIFT key.
2. With the mouse, click the objects you want, one after the other.
The handles of the rectangle surrounding the object appear for every selected
object.
The mouse pointer will change to a crosshair with arrow points when it is positioned over
a selected object.
The reference object in this type of multiple selection is the object that was selected first.
Note
If an object has been selected accidentally, it can be removed from the multiple selection by
clicking it again while holding down the Shift key.

Alternative Procedure
The multiple selection can also be made by dragging a selection frame with the mouse. The
objects will be selected in accordance with the setting for the type of object selection. The
procedure described here is for the surrounding object selection type.
1. Hold down the mouse button and drag a frame around the objects you want.
2. As soon as you release the mouse button, the handles for the rectangles surrounding the
objects will be shown for every selected object.

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The reference object in this type of multiple selection is the object that was created first.

See also
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page1565)
How to Set the Options for the configuration settings (Page1545)
How to Align Multiple Objects (Page1568)

8.5.6.3

How to Align Multiple Objects

Introduction
The objects in a multiple selection can be edited together using the functions of the Alignment
palette. These functions can also be called from the "Arrange / Align" menu.

The Alignment Palette contains the following functions for processing the objects in a multiple
selection:

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Align:The selected objects are aligned on the border line of the selection frame (up, down,
left, right).
Center:The selected objects are centered on a middle axis of the selection frame
(horizontally, vertically).
Space: The selected objects are distributed evenly across the height or width of the
selection frame (horizontally, vertically).
Align: The size of the reference object is assigned to the selected objects (height, width or
height and width).
A detailed description of these functions can be found in the section "The Alignment palette".

Requirement
Select at least two objects of any type.

Procedure
1. Click the icon you want in the Alignment Palette.
The alignment or the size of the selected objects changes.

Alternative Procedure
1. Select the entry you want from the Arrange / Align menu.
The alignment or the size of the selected objects changes.

See also
Multiple Selection of Objects (Page1565)
The Alignment Palette (Page1533)
How to Select Multiple Objects (Page1567)

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8.5.7

The Properties of an Object

8.5.7.1

The Properties of an Object

Introduction
The shape, appearance, position and application linking of an object are set by the Object
Properties. These properties can be changed in the page layout editor as needed.
The properties of an object are described by a large number of attributes. An object property
can be changed by assigning a new value to its attribute.
The Properties tab of the Object Properties window contains all the attributes of a selected
object or objects in a multiple selection. The attributes are divided into property groups, such
as geometry or color. The type and number of the available property groups and attributes are
dependent on the type of the selected objects. So, for example, the Font property group is only
shown for the object types which can be displayed with text.
As an alternative to changing the attributes in the Object Properties window, objects can also
be adjusted with the mouse and keyboard or by using the toolbar and palettes. However, in
this way only certain object properties, such as the basic geometric size, color and line style,
can be changed.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
The Object Palette (Page1525)
How to Access the Object Properties Window (Page1571)
The Object Properties Window (Page1570)

8.5.7.2

The Object Properties Window

The Object Properties Window

Introduction
The Object Properties window represents the central dialog for changing object properties in
the page layout editor.
For creating a layout, it is first important to adjust the static values of the attributes, in order,
for example, to set the form, appearance or position of an object. Change the static values on
the Properties tab.
With dynamic log objects, you can edit the selection of data for output using the Object
Properties dialog. You can open the dialogs for editing on the link tab.

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The Object Properties Window

As an example, the Object Properties window can have the following appearance for a
rectangle with the object name "Rectangle1":

The Object Properties window can be kept in the foreground of the page layout editor. The
position and size of the window can be changed as you like.
The Object Properties window is subdivided into Elements toolbar, and the Properties and Link
tabs. You can find more about these elements in their detailed description.

How to Pin the Object Properties Window to the Top

By activating the button, the Object Properties window can be set so that it is always in the
foreground in the Graphics Designer. Clicking the button again deactivates the function.

See also
How to Access the Object Properties Window (Page1571)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
The Properties tab in the Object Properties window (Page1573)
The Toolbar in the Object Properties Window (Page1572)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

How to Access the Object Properties Window

Introduction
The Properties tab of the Object Properties window contains all the attributes of a selected
object or objects in a multiple selection. The changes are made to an object property by
assigning a new value to accompanying attribute.

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Requirement
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
You can open the Object Properties window in the following ways:
In the standard toolbar, click the

button.

Double-click the selected object.

Select Properties from the pop-up menu of the object.
In the View menu, select Properties..
Note
If you want to make changes to several objects, you can lock the display of the Object
Properties window with the
.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
The Properties tab in the Object Properties window (Page1573)
The Toolbar in the Object Properties Window (Page1572)
The Object Properties Window (Page1570)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

The Toolbar in the Object Properties Window

Introduction
You can make the following settings with the toolbar in the Object Properties window:
The display of the Object Properties window can be kept in the foreground of the page
layout editor.
Object properties can be transferred.
Individual objects in the active layout can be selected.
As an example, the toolbar can have the following appearance for a rectangle with the object
name "Rectangle1":

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Elements of the toolbar in the Object Properties window

Icon

Name

Function

Pin
activated/
deactivated

Deactivate: the Object Properties window will be

closed as soon as the mouse is clicked outside the
selected object.
Activate: Activate: the Object Properties window
stays in the foreground at all times. Different objects
can be edited without having to open the window
again.

Eyedropper The properties of a selected object are copied.

Copy properties
Eyedropper The previously copied properties are transferred to
Assign
the selected object without changing its geometric
properties
attributes. For different object types, only those
attributes which both object types have are
transferred.
Object type

Displays the object type of the selected object. When

several objects are selected, a multiple selection and
the number of objects selected is displayed here.

Object
selection

Displays the name of the selected object.

Another object can be selected using the selection
list. If the dynamic part of the layout is enabled, the
selection list contains the names of all objects in the
dynamic part of the layout. This is also the case for
the static part of the layout.

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
The Properties tab in the Object Properties window (Page1573)
How to Access the Object Properties Window (Page1571)
The Object Properties Window (Page1570)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

The Properties tab in the Object Properties window

Introduction
The Properties tab represents the central dialog for changing the static values of a selected
object in the Object Properties window.
As an example, the Properties tab can have the following appearance for a rectangle with the
object name "Rectangle1":

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The Properties tab is divided into two areas:

Properties display: In the left-hand area, the selected object is displayed with its property
groups in the form of a directory tree. The selected object is displayed as a
directory.
With a multiple selection or a user object, this folder only receives the shared property
groups of the contained individual objects. For a selected property group, the value of an
attribute will only be displayed if the value is the same for all selected objects or if the
attribute belongs to only one of the selected objects.
The name of the property groups cannot be changed. Directories and subdirectories can
be opened or closed by clicking the + or - icons.
Attribute display: The right-hand area contains all attributes which are available for the
selected property group. The attribute display is divided into two columns in which the static
values of the selected object are displayed.
The displayed values can be changed by double-clicking or opening the pop-up menu in
the Static column.
The width of the two window areas and the columns in the attribute display can be changed
by moving the vertical dividing lines.

Attribute Display Columns

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Column

Description

Attribute

Name of the attribute. All of the attributes from the selected property group that
are available for the selected object will be shown.

The name of the attribute cannot be changed. The static value of the attribute can
be changed by double-clicking the attribute name.

Static

Static value of the attribute. The current value of the attribute for the selected object
is displayed. The value will be displayed as a number, text or graphic display,
depending on the type of attribute.

The static value of the attribute can be changed by double-clicking the attribute
name. You can find more in chapter Changing Attributes.

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See also
The Object Properties Window (Page1570)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
The Toolbar in the Object Properties Window (Page1572)
How to Access the Object Properties Window (Page1571)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

The Link tab in the Object Properties Window

Introduction
The Link tab represents the central dialog for configuring links in the Object Properties window.
The dynamic objects are already linked with the corresponding applications. Some of the
dynamic objects have one or more dialogs for selecting data for output.
For example, the Link tab in the Object Properties window for a database table with object
name Dynamic Table 1 might look like this:

The Link tab is divided into two areas:

In the left-hand area, the linked applications from which the data to be output are taken are
shown in the form of a directory tree.
In the right-hand area, the editing options and, if they exist, the formatting options, are
shown in the Name column. You can open the appropriate configuration dialog with the
Edit... button.
The configured selections are reset with the Delete... button. The selection options remain.
The width of the two window areas and the columns in the event display can be changed by
moving the vertical dividing lines.

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See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties tab in the Object Properties window (Page1573)
The Toolbar in the Object Properties Window (Page1572)
How to Access the Object Properties Window (Page1571)
The Object Properties Window (Page1570)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

8.5.7.3

How to Change an Attribute

Introduction
The properties of an object in the page layout editor are determined by the values of the object
attributes. Every change to an object, for example made with the mouse or via a configuration
dialog, changes the value of the accompanying attributes.
The Properties tab of the Object Properties window displays all the attributes of a selected
object or objects in a multiple selection. The attributes are assigned to so-called property
groups. The type and number of the available property groups and attributes are dependent
on the type of the selected objects. So, for example, the Font property group is only shown for
the object types which can be displayed with text.
An object property can be changed by assigning a new value to its attribute. Entries for
changing a specific attribute can be found in the detailed description of that attribute.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window.
2. In the Properties tab, select the property group you want.
3. Double-click the attribute you want. A dialog for changing attributes will open. Enter a new
value according to the table below.
4. Click OK to confirm your entries.
As an alternative, you can directly open a dialog for changing attributes by double-clicking in
the Static column. You can call up direct help for each attribute by right-clicking it in the Attribute
column.

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Dialogs for Changing Attributes

The table provides information about the possible dialogs for changing attributes and contains
an example of calling each one.
Dialog

Procedure

Value input

Enter a new value in the line.

Example::
Object: static text; properties group: geometry; attribute: width

Text Input

Click in the text field to edit text or enter new text.

Example:
Object: static text; properties group: font; attribute: text

Switchover

Every double-click produces a switch between the two available standing

values.
Example:
Object: static text; properties group: font; attribute: bold

Selection dialog in the

form of a button

Click the button to set the new value.

Example:
Object: static text; properties group: font; attribute: X alignment

Selecting a color

Select one of the 16 standard colors or open the palette with the user-defined
colors. In this palette, you can freely define additional colors.
Example:
Object: static text; properties group: color; attribute: font color

Selecting a picture

Choose a picture from the selection dialog or use the Search In dialog to
find a directory where you can take additional pictures in the picture
selection.
Example:
Object: static metafile; properties group: other; attribute: metafile name

See also
The Styles Property Group (Page1587)
The Miscellaneous Property Group (Page1585)
The Font Property Group (Page1584)
The Geometry Property Group (Page1581)
The Colors Property Group (Page1579)
How to Rename Objects (Page1578)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)

8.5.7.4

How to Transfer Object Properties

Introduction
The properties of an object can be transferred to another object with the Eyedropper. The
following buttons can be used to transfer object properties in the page layout editor:

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to copy properties of the selected object

to apply copied properties to a selected object

These buttons are in the standard toolbar and in the Object Properties window. Alternatively,
these functions can be called via the Edit / Properties menu.
The properties of any object can be copied with the eyedropper. You can apply the copies to
any object or multiple selection. The properties are transferred without changing the geometric
attributes of the object. For different object types, only the attributes held by both the original
and target objects will be changed.

Procedure
1. Select the object whose properties you want to copy.
2. In the standard toolbar, click
.
The properties of the selected object are copied.
3. Select the object to which you want to assign the copied properties.
4. In the standard toolbar, click
.
The selected object will be displayed with the new properties, but without changing its
geometric attributes.

See also
The Styles Property Group (Page1587)
The Miscellaneous Property Group (Page1585)
The Font Property Group (Page1584)
The Geometry Property Group (Page1581)
The Colors Property Group (Page1579)
How to Rename Objects (Page1578)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)

8.5.7.5

How to Rename Objects

Introduction
The Object Name attribute determines the name of an object in the layout. The object name
is unique within a layout.
When an object is inserted, the object name assigned as standard is the description of the
object type with a consecutive number. This name can be changed using the Object Name
attribute.

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The allocation of unique names is important when using objects whose output parameters can
be changed online. You can find more information in chapter Changing Output Options in
Runtime.

Requirement
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window.
2. In the Properties tab, select the entry for the selected object type to which the property
groups of the object are subordinate.

3. Double-click the Object Name attribute. The Text Entry dialog opens.
4. Enter the new name.
5. Click OK to confirm your entries.

Value area
The object name is freely selectable and can contain up to 128 characters. When entering the
name, please make note of the list of characters which are not permitted.

8.5.7.6

The Colors Property Group

The Colors Property Group

Introduction
The Colors property group contains attributes which you can use to change the color settings
of objects.

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Requirement
The Colors property group is available for all object types.
The availability of the attributes is dependent on the type of object selected. Only the attributes
which the selected object has will be displayed.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the Colors property group. The function of an attribute
is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Fill pattern color

Color of the fill

pattern

Polygon, ellipse, circle, ellipse segment, pie segment,

rectangle, rounded rectangle, static text, static metafile, all
dynamic objects, all system objects, all objects for runtime
documentation and project documentation and the layout
object.

Background color

Background color of
the object

Polygon, ellipse, circle, ellipse segment, pie segment,

rectangle, rounded rectangle, static text, static metafile, all
dynamic objects, all system objects, all objects for runtime
documentation and project documentation and the layout
object.

Line color

Color of a line

All standard objects except static text, all dynamic objects,

all system objects, all objects for the runtime documentation
and the project documentation and the layout object.

Line background
color

Background color of
a line

All standard objects except static text, all dynamic objects,

all system objects, all objects for the runtime documentation
and the project documentation.

Font color

Color of the text in

an object

Static text, all dynamic objects except embedded layout and

hard copy, all system objects, all logs and tables in the
objects for runtime documentation, all objects for the project
documentation

See also
Working with the Colors Property Group (Page1580)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Color Palette (Page1536)

Working with the Colors Property Group

Introduction
In the Colors property group you can change the color setting for the background, lines, fill
pattern and font of an object. The following example Changing the Background Color explains
how to work with this property group.

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Requirement
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window, e.g. using the pop-up menu.
2. On the Properties tab, select the Colors property group.
3. Double-click the Background Color attribute. A selection dialog opens.
4. Select one of the 16 standard colors or open the palette with the user-defined colors. In
this palette, you can freely define additional colors.

See also
Working with the Colors Property Group (Page1580)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Color Palette (Page1536)

8.5.7.7

The Geometry Property Group

The Geometry Property Group

Introduction
The Geometry property group contains attributes which you can use to change the geometric
properties of objects.

Requirement
The Geometry property group is available for all objects.
The availability of the attributes is dependent on the type of object selected. Only the attributes
which the selected object has will be displayed.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the Geometry property group. The function of an
attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Current value X

Horizontal position of the currently selected

corner point, relative to the image origin.

Polygon, polyline

Current value Y

Vertical position of the currently selected

corner point, relative to the image origin.

Polygon, polyline

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Starting angle

Start angle for the display of segment or arc

objects in degrees.

Ellipse arc, ellipse segment,

circular arc, pie segment

Number of corners Number of corner points

Polygon, polyline

Width

Distance between the left and right borders of

an object, for the layout object the width of the
layout.

All objects

Corner radius X

Radius of the corner rounding

Rounded rectangle

Corner radius Y

Radius of the corner rounding

Rounded rectangle

End angle

End angle for the display of segment or arc

objects in degrees.

Ellipse arc, ellipse segment,

circular arc, pie segment

Height

Distance between the upper and lower

borders of an object, for the layout object the
height of the layout

All objects

Index

Number of the currently selected corner points Polygon, polyline

Left print margin

Determines the width of the left print margin

Layout object

Left dynamic
margin

Determines the left margin of the dynamic

layout part.

Layout object

Top print margin

Determines the width of the top print margin

Layout object

Top dynamic
margin

Determines the top margin of the dynamic

layout part.

Layout object

Orientation

Determines the orientation of the printout in

portrait or landscape format.

Layout object

Position X

Horizontal distance of the object origin from

the image origin

All objects

Position Y

Vertical distance of the object origin from the

image origin

All objects

Radius

Radius of a circular object

Circle, circular arc, pie segment

Radius X

Horizontal radius of an elliptical object

Ellipse, ellipse arc, ellipse

segment

Radius Y

Vertical radius of an elliptical object

Ellipse, ellipse arc, ellipse

segment

Right print margin

Determines the width of the right print margin Layout object

Right dynamic
margin

Determines the right margin of the dynamic

layout part.

Layout object

Paper size

Determines the paper format of the printout

Layout object

Columns

Number and width of the columns in a table

All table objects in the object

palette, recognizable by the
icon.

Bottom print
margin

Determines the width of the bottom print

margin

Layout object

Bottom dynamic
margin

Determines the bottom margin of the dynamic

layout part.

Layout object

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See also
Working with the Geometry Property Group (Page1583)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
The coordinate system in the Report Designer (Page1559)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

Working with the Geometry Property Group

Introduction
You can change the geometric properties of an object in the Geometry property group. The
following example Changing the Width explains how to work with this property group.

Requirement
Select an object of any type. You have already set the units of the coordinates (e.g.
centimeters) in the Tools/Settings/Units menu.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window, e.g. using the pop-up menu.
2. On the Properties tab, select the Geometry property group.
3. Double-click the Width attribute. The Value Input dialog opens.
4. Enter the new value.
5. Click OK to confirm your entries.

Alternative Operation
Change the object size with the mouse by dragging one of the handles on the rectangle
surrounding the object to the width you want.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
The coordinate system in the Report Designer (Page1559)
The Geometry Property Group (Page1581)

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8.5.7.8

The Font Property Group

The Font Property Group

Introduction
The Font property group contains attributes which you can use to change the appearance of
text in objects.

Requirement
The Font property group is available for all objects. Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC
Database and Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and project documentation
The availability of the attributes is dependent on the type of object selected. Only the attributes
which the selected object has will be displayed.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the Font property group. The function of an attribute
is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Bold

Text is displayed in
boldface

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation

Italic

Text is displayed in
italics

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation

Text

The object text

Static text

Underline

Text is displayed
underlined

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation

X alignment

Horizontal orientation
of the text in the object

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation which contain dynamic text

Y alignment

Vertical orientation of
the text in the object

Static text, the dynamic object Tag, the system objects

Font

Font of the text

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation

Font size

Font size of the text in

points

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation

Text wrap

Automatic line
wrapping during output
of the text

Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and

Tags, the system objects and the objects for online and
project documentation which contain dynamic text

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with the Font Property Group (Page1585)

Working with the Font Property Group

Introduction
You can change the text display attributes of an object in the Font property group. The following
example Changing the Font explains how to work with this property group.

Requirement
Select one of the following objects: Static text, the dynamic objects ODBC Database and Tags,
the system objects and the objects for online and project documentation

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window, e.g. using the pop-up menu.
2. On the Properties tab, select the Font property group.
3. Double-click the Font attribute. The Font Selection dialog opens.
4. Select the font you want in the dialog.
5. Click OK to confirm your entries.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with the Font Property Group (Page1585)

8.5.7.9

The Miscellaneous Property Group

The Miscellaneous Property Group

Introduction
The Miscellaneous property group contains attributes which you can use to change the
miscellaneous settings of objects.

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Requirement
The Miscellaneous property group is available for all objects.
The availability of the attributes is dependent on the type of object selected. Only the attributes
which the selected object has will be displayed.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the Miscellaneous property group. The function of
an attribute is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are
listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Output format

sets the appearance of the output value

tag dynamic object

Output value

sets the tags for the output

tag dynamic object

Calculation

calls a script for further editing of the tag value

tag dynamic object

Data type

sets the data type of the tags

tag dynamic object

Cover sheet

Sets whether a cover sheet should be output

Layout object

Format

sets the appearance of the output value

all system objects

Layout file

sets the layout to be embedded

Embedded layout

Metafile name

sets the name of the embedded file

Static metafile

Final page

Sets whether a closing page should be output

Layout object

Page break

inserts a page break in front of the object.

all objects

Polling list

If the output data is output in a single column per line,

this attribute can be used to output multiple columns per
line. The data will be written from left to right in the table
cells.

All table objects in the

object palette,
recognizable by the
icon.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with the Miscellaneous Property Group (Page1586)

Working with the Miscellaneous Property Group

Introduction
You can change various properties of an object in the Miscellaneous property group. The
following example Changing the Page Break explains how to work with this property group.

Requirement
Select an object of any type.

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Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window, e.g. using the pop-up menu.
2. On the Properties tab, select the Miscellaneous property group.
3. Double-click the Page Break attribute. The entered value changes, for example from No to
Yes. With Yes, a page break is inserted in front of the object. The default setting is Yes.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with the Miscellaneous Property Group (Page1586)

8.5.7.10

The Styles Property Group

The Styles Property Group

Introduction
The Styles property group contains attributes which you can use to change the style for the
appearance of objects.

Requirement
The Styles property group is available for all objects.
The availability of the attributes is dependent on the type of object selected. Only the attributes
which the selected object has will be displayed.

Overview
The following table shows all attributes in the Styles property group. The function of an attribute
is described briefly and the object types for which the attribute is available are listed.
Attribute

Function

Object type

Corners

Representation of the corners of an

object, e.g. round, flat or
pointed
(associated with the Line Style
attribute)

all objects

Fill pattern

Pattern for the display of background

areas, for example solid or hatched

Polygon, ellipse, circle, ellipse segment, pie

segment, rectangle, rounded rectangle,
static text, static metafile,
all dynamic objects, all system objects, all
objects for runtime documentation and
project documentation and the layout object.

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Attribute

Function

Object type

Line termination Representation of the line

terminations of an object, e.g. round,
flat or pointed
(associated with the Line Style
attribute)

all objects

Line type

Display type of a line, for example

dotted or dashed

all objects

Line weight

Width of a line in points

all objects

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with the Styles Property Group (Page1588)

Working with the Styles Property Group

Introduction
In the Styles property group, you can change the style for the display of objects. The following
example Changing the Fill Pattern explains how to work with this property group.

Requirement
Select an object of any type.

Procedure
1. Open the Object Properties window, e.g. using the pop-up menu.
2. On the Properties tab, select the Styles property group.
3. Double-click the Fill Pattern attribute. The Fill Pattern Selection dialog opens.
4. Select the fill pattern you want in the dialog.
5. Click OK to confirm your entries.

Alternative Operation
You can also change the fill pattern with the style palette.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with the Styles Property Group (Page1588)

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8.5.8

Working with Standard Objects

8.5.8.1

Working with Standard Objects

Introduction
Standard objects include geometric shapes, static text, OLE objects, static metafiles, the
dynamic objects and the system objects. You can use static objects to design the layout for
the output. System objects can be used, as an example, to inscribe the project name and page
numbers in the static part of the report.
In the page layout editor, the various object types have predefined properties. When they are
inserted the objects import these default properties, with the exception of individual geometric
properties. After insertion the properties of an object can be modified. In the same way the
default settings for the object types can be modified as required.

See also
Working with System Objects (Page1631)
Working with Dynamic Standard Objects (Page1618)
Working with Static Objects (Page1589)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)

8.5.8.2

Working with Static Objects

Working with Static Objects

Introduction
In this chapter, you will learn the details of the static objects available in the page layout editor.
You will learn how to work with the objects, and what are the basic conditions for each object.

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Usage
Static objects are used for the visual design of a report. The static objects can be pasted into
the static and dynamic parts of a layout.

See also
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Overview of the Static Objects (Page1527)

How to Draw a Line

Introduction
The line is an open object. The length and angle of a line are determined by the height and
width of the rectangle around the object. Different line types, such as dashed or dotted, are
available.

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Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to paste a line.
2. Click the "Line" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
line.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the line to the length and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the line is finished.

Changing Lines with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing lines with value input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw a Polygon

Introduction
The polygon is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A polygon can have
any number of corners. The corners are numbered in their sequence of creation and can be
modified individually or deleted.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a polygon.
2. Click the standard object "Polygon" in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
polygon.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Click the selected starting point with the left mouse button.

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5. Move the mouse pointer to the next corner point. Click with the left mouse button to set the
corner point. Set as many further corner points as you like in the same way.
6. Double-click with the left mouse button to set the last corner point and finish the polygon.

Changing Polygons with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Polygons with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

How to Draw a Polyline

Introduction
The polyline is an open object. Even if the start and finish point have the same coordinates,
the area cannot be filled. A polyline can have any number of corners. The corners are

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numbered in their sequence of creation and can be modified individually or deleted. The line
ends of a polyline can for example be shown as arrows or points.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a polyline.
2. Click the "Polyline" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
polyline.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Click the selected starting point with the left mouse button.
5. Move the mouse pointer to the next corner point. Click with the left mouse button to set the
corner point. Set as many further corner points as you like in the same way.
6. Double-click with the left mouse button to set the last corner point and finish the polyline.

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Changing Polylines with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Polylines with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw an Ellipse

Introduction
The ellipse is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height and width of
an ellipse can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert an ellipse.
2. Click on the "Ellipse" standard object in the Object palette.

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3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
ellipse.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the ellipse to the size and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the ellipse is finished.

Changing an Ellipse with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing an Ellipse with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw a Circle

Introduction
A circle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A circle can be resized at
will.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a circle.
2. Click the "Circle" standard object in the Object palette.

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3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
circle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the circle to the size and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the circle is finished.

Changing Circles with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Circles with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw an Ellipse Segment

Introduction
The ellipse segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height and
width of an ellipse segment can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or
vertically.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert an ellipse segment.
2. Click the "Ellipse segment" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you wish to position the origin
of the ellipse segment.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.

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4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the ellipse segment to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the ellipse segment insertion is finished.
5. The start and end points of the ellipse segment are shown by small gray squares. Place
the mouse pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer will change to a cross.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.

Changing Ellipse Segments with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing ellipse Segments with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, an ellipse segment does not turn
into a closed ellipse.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw a Pie Segment

Introduction
The pie segment is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A pie segment can
be resized at will.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a pie segment.
2. Click in the "pie segment" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you wish to position the origin
of the pie segment.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the pie segment to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the pie segment insertion is finished.

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5. The start and end points of the pie segment are shown by small gray squares. Place the
mouse pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer will change to a cross.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.

Changing Pie Segments with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Pie Segments with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, a pie segment does not turn into
a closed circle.

See also
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to draw an Ellipse Arc

Introduction
The ellipse arc is an open object. The height and width of an ellipse arc can be modified as
desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert an ellipse arc.
2. Click the "Ellipse arc" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you wish to position the origin
of the ellipse arc.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.

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4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the ellipse arc to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the ellipse arc insertion is finished.
5. The start and end points of the ellipse arc are shown by small gray squares. Place the
mouse pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer will change to a cross.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.

Changing Ellipse Arcs with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Ellipse Arcs with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, an ellipse arc does not turn into a
closed ellipse.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw a Circular Arc

Introduction
The circular arc is an open object. A circular arc can be resized at will.

Requirement
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a circular arc.
2. Click the "Circular arc" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you wish to position the origin
of the circular arc.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the circular arc to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the circular arc insertion is finished.

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5. The start and end points of the circular arc are shown by small gray squares. Place the
mouse pointer on one of these squares. The mouse pointer will change to a cross.
6. Drag the start or end point to the desired position while holding down the mouse button.

Changing Circular Arcs with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Circular Arcs with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".
Note
Even if the values of the start and end angle are identical, a circular arc does not turn into a
closed circle.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw a Rectangle

Introduction
The rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height and width
of a rectangle can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally or vertically.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a rectangle.
2. Click the "Rectangle" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the
rectangle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the rectangle to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the rectangle is finished.

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Changing Rectangles with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Rectangles with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Draw a Rounded Rectangle

Introduction
The rounded rectangle is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The height
and width of a rounded rectangle can be modified as desired to allow it to be aligned horizontally
or vertically. The corners of a rounded rectangle can be rounded as much as desired.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a rounded rectangle.
2. Click the "Rounded rectangle" standard object in the Object palette.

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3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the rounded
rectangle.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the rounded rectangle to the size and direction you
want.
When you release the mouse button, the rounded rectangle is finished.

Changing Rounded Rectangles with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Rounded Rectangles with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".
Note
If the "corner radius X" and "corner radius Y" attributes are both set to the value of 100pt,
1cm or 1, depending on the units, the rounded rectangle will be displayed as an ellipse or
circle. If both attributes have a value of 0, a normal rectangle without rounded corners will be
displayed.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Insert Static Text

Introduction
The field for static text is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. The static
text is entered into a field of any desired size. The text can be entered on one or more lines.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert static text.
2. Click the "static text" standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the static
text.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the text field to the required size.
The field for the static text is complete as soon as you release the mouse button.
The word Text appears in the field.

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5. Overwrite the Text with your own text.
For text on multiple lines, create a line break by pressing the ENTER key, the key
combination SHIFT+ENTER or the key combination CTRL+M.
6. Clicking outside the object ends the text input.

Changing the Contents of the Static Text

Double-click the static text to open the input mode for text. The complete text is selected.
Position the insertion point with another click at the position in the text at which you want to
change something. For text on multiple lines, create a line break by pressing the Enter key,
the key combination "Shift"+"Enter" or the key combination "Ctrl"+"M".

Changing Static Text with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Static Text with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".
Note
In the "Font" property, "Text" attribute a line break will be displayed as a control character in
the "Static" column. If the text is edited using the dialog for the "Text" attribute, no line breaks
can be added.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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How to Insert an OLE Object

Introduction
The OLE object enables you to insert files created with other programs into a layout. Therefore
all OLE elements registered in the Windows operating system can be integrated. The size and
properties taken on by an OLE object in runtime are defined in the page layout editor. No
changes can be made to OLE elements in runtime.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The file type you wish to use must be registered in the Windows operating system.

Insert the OLE object, option "Create from file".

With the option "Create from file", an already existing file is chosen for display in the selected
OLE object. The selected file is edited in the OLE object with the program that is registered
for editing the selected file type in the Windows operating system.

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1. Open the layout in which you want to paste an OLE object, and click the standard object
"OLE object" in the Object palette.
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the OLE
object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the OLE object to the desired size.
The "Insert Object" dialog is opened.
4. Select option Create from File.
In the "Paste object" dialog, an input field, the "Browse..." button and the "Link" check box
are displayed.
5. Enter the directory path and the name of the desired file into the input field. Or click on the
"Browse..." button to select the file with the "Browse" dialog.
6. Mark the "Link" check box if the selected file should not be copied to the OLE object, but
rather should only be used as a reference.
7. Mark the "As icon" check box if only an icon for the associated file type should be displayed
and not the contents of the selected file.
8. Confirm your entry with "OK". The insertion process for the OLE object is finished.

Inserting the OLE object, "Create new" option.

The "Create new" option selects a file type for a new file that is created in the selected OLE
object. During editing, the file in the OLE object is edited with the program registered in the
Windows operating system for editing the selected file type.

1. Open the layout where you want to paste an OLE object, and click on the "OLE object" in
the Object palette.
2. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the OLE
object.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
3. Drag the OLE object to the desired size.
The "Insert Object" dialog is opened.
4. Select the option Create New.
The Insert Object dialog, a list of all file types registered in the Windows operating system
is displayed.
5. Select the object type for the file that you want to create in the selected OLE object.
6. Mark the "As icon" check box if only an icon for the associated file type should be displayed
and not the contents of the selected file.
7. Confirm your entry with "OK". The insertion process for the OLE object is finished.

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8. Double-click the OLE object to edit the embedded file in the OLE object.
The program registered in the Windows operating system for editing the associated file
type opens in the page layout editor.
9. Finish editing the embedded file by deselecting the OLE object.
The changes are accepted.

Changing OLE Objects with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing OLE Objects with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

How to Insert a Static Metafile

Introduction
The static metafile field is a closed object that can be filled with a color or pattern. A graphic
file of any size is entered into the field.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.
The graphic file must be in the *.emf format.

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Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a static metafile.
2. Click the Static Metafile standard object in the Object palette.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you want to insert the static
metafile.
The mouse pointer changes into a crosshair with an object symbol attached.
4. Hold down the mouse button and drag the object to the size and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the static metafile is finished.
5. Double-click the Metafile Name attribute in the Miscellaneous property group of the Object
Properties window in order to enter the name of the graphic file.
6. A file dialog opens in which you can select the graphic file you want in the *.emf format.
7. Confirm the selected file with the Open button. The selected graphic file will be inserted in
the object.

Changing Static Metafiles with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Static Metafiles with Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in section Changing Attribute.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Standard Objects (Page1589)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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8.5.8.3

Working with Dynamic Standard Objects

Working with Dynamic Standard Objects

Introduction
In this chapter you will learn details about the dynamic standard objects available in the page
layout editor. You will learn how to work with the objects, and what are the basic conditions
for each object.

Usage
With dynamic standard objects you link to tags, databases and screen contents that you wish
to output in a log. You can only paste dynamic standard objects in the dynamic part of a page
layout.

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)
Overview of the Dynamic Objects (Page1528)

Working with Embedded Layouts

Introduction
With the "Embedded layout" dynamic object you can embed one layout in another and output
both of them together. However, the layouts cannot be nested in just any fashion. A maximum
of one layer of embedded layouts can be used. An embedded layout within an embedded
layout is not permitted. If dynamic objects are used in an embedded layout, these also cannot

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be mixed in just any fashion. The following illustrations will clarify the options for using
embedded layouts.

Possible combinations: Layouts B1, B2 and a log object are directly embedded in Layout A1.
An embedded layout with several log objects of the same type is embedded in layout A2.

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Non-permitted combinations: The embedded layout B4 contains several dynamic tables of

different WinCC components. In layout A4 the nesting depth is too large.

Purpose
The functionality of the "Embedded layout" object is used, for example, with the project
documentation of pictures from the Graphics Designer. The configuration data of all pictures
in a WinCC project are output with the "@PdlPic" layout in this way. The data are output in
blocks for every picture. The output thus occurs in this form:
Picture 1
- output of all data for picture 1
Picture 2
- output of all data for picture 2
Picture n
- output of all data for picture n
If the objects for the project documentation are pasted from the object palette one after the
other into a layout, then the data of the current object will be collected and output. The output
then occurs in this form:
Object 1
- output of object data for picture 1, picture 2, picture n
Object 2

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- output of object data for picture 1, picture 2, picture n
Object n
- output of object data for picture 1, picture 2, picture n
For the runtime configuration, the necessary log objects can be filed in a structure. Thus for
example, additional information you want can be configured in a separate layout and output
as an embedded layout.
Example:
The output of a tag logging - variable curve is configured in a page layout. Several report
objects of the "Tag" type, which are to be output in the log for the current measured values of
the curve, are configured in a layout to be embedded. Additionally, a WinCC tag will be
configured which forms a mean value via a script. The mean value will likewise be output with
the "Tag" log object.

Applications
Print job

Layout used

Function

@Documentation
Graphics Designer
Dynamics

@PDLPicDyn

Nested layout for outputting the dynamization data of a

Graphics Designer picture.

@Documentation
Graphics Designer

@PDLPic

Nested layout for outputting the general display, statistics

data, objects in the picture, picture attributes, actions on
the picture, direct connections to the picture, object
statistics, attributes of the objects, actions on the objects,
and direct connections to objects. The data is output on a
separate page for each picture.

@Documentation
Global Script Project
Function

@GSC_RPFC

Nested layout for outputting the information and source text

of the project functions. Output is started in WinCC
Explorer.

@Documentation
Global Script
Standard Function

@GSC_SFC

Layout for outputting information and the source text for a

standard function open in the Global Script editor.

How to Change the Output Options for the Hardcopy Object

Introduction
With the "Hardcopy" object type, you can paste a shot of the current screen contents, a portion
thereof, or a currently selected picture window in the dynamic part of a page layout.

Requirements
The hardcopy object is already pasted into the layout
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
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Procedure
1. Select "Area selection" from the "Name" column in the right area of the Link tab. Clicking
on the "Edit..." button opens the "Area selection" dialog.

2. From the selection list, choose the area from which you want to prepare a hard copy for
the report.
3. The configured area is static. You can, however, link a WinCC tag in order to change the
area to dynamic in runtime. The report system reads the value from the variable at runtime.
If the variable cannot be read, the configured value is used.
The WinCC tag must be of the Number type. The numbers have the following
significance:
0 Hard copy of the entire screen
1 Hard copy of the current window
2 Hard copy of a section
4. If you have selected "Hardcopy of a section", you must enter the X and Y positions of the
upper left corner of the area in the lower part of the dialog, as well as set the width and
height of the section in pixels.
5. The numeric values for setting the section can also be dynamized using WinCC tags. The
WinCC tags must be of the number type. The report system reads the value from the
variable at runtime. If the variable cannot be read, the configured value is used.
6. If you want to maintain the proportions of the screen contents during printing, select the
appropriate check box.

Dynamizing with WinCC tags

In order to dynamize parameters for output, the necessary tags must be set in the WinCC tag
management. WinCC tags can be provided with new values in runtime. You can find further
information on this subject in the section "Changing output options online".

Changing Hardcopy Objects with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

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Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Hardcopy Objects by Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Dynamic Standard Objects (Page1618)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

How to Change the Output Options for the ODBC Database Field
Introduction
With the "ODBC database field" object, you can paste the contents of a database field as text
in the dynamic part of a page layout via the ODBC interface. If the content of the database
field concerns a text object, only the first value of the first line will be delivered, independent
of the size of the volume of results.

Requirements
The "ODBC database field" object is already pasted into the layout
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
A valid ODBC data source exists and is registered
Knowledge of ODBC and SQL

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Procedure
1. Select "Database link" from the "Name" column in the right area of the Link tab. Click the
"Edit..." button to open a configuration dialog.

2. Use the selection list in the "ODBC data source" area to select the desired data source. All
registered ODBC data sources are available for selection. The project creator is responsible
for the registration and validity of the data sources.
3. If the data source has any database-specific access limitations, enter the necessary
information in the fields for the user and password.
4. The selection of the data for output takes place using an SQL statement. Enter the required
statement in the SQL statement area. Using the "Insert tag..." button, you can insert a tag
into the SQL statement in order to complete it at runtime.
5. You can check your entries by using the "Test SQL statement" button. The project must be
activated for the check when using WinCC tags.
6. Confirm your entries by clicking "OK". The dialog closes.
7. Save the layout.

Dynamizing with WinCC tags

All the tasks in this dialog can also be dynamized with WinCC tags. To do so, activate the
"Tag" checkbox in the "Data connection" dialog and select a tag form the tag selection dialog
using the folder button. If you know the tag name, you can enter it directly instead. The tags
must all be of the "Text" type.
In order to dynamize parameters for output, the necessary tags must be set in the WinCC tag
management. WinCC tags can be provided with new values in runtime. You can find further
information on this subject in the section "Types of dynamization".
CAUTION
The SQL statements are not subject to any constraints. If you do the wrong thing, it is possible
to destroy or delete the data source.

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Changing the ODBC database field with the mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing the ODBC database field by entering values

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Dynamic Standard Objects (Page1618)

How to Change the Output Options for the ODBC Database Table
Introduction
With the "ODBC database table" object, you can paste the contents of a database table as
text in the dynamic part of a page layout via the ODBC interface.

Requirements
The "ODBC database table" object is already pasted into the layout
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
A valid ODBC data source exists and is registered
Knowledge of ODBC and SQL

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Procedure
1. Select "Database link" from the "Name" column in the right area of the Link tab. Click the
"Edit..." button to open a configuration dialog.

2. Use the selection list in the "ODBC data source" area to select the desired data source. All
registered ODBC data sources are available for selection. The project creator is responsible
for the registration and validity of the data sources.
3. If the data source has any access limitations, enter the necessary information in the fields
for the user and password.
4. The selection of the data for output takes place using an SQL statement. Enter the required
statement in the SQL statement area. The example refers to the MCPTVARIABLEDESC
table from the WinCC database. Using the "Insert tag..." button, you can insert a tag into
the SQL statement in order to complete it at runtime.
5. You can check your entries by using the "Test SQL statement" button. If the test is
successful, then the number of columns found in the "Number of columns" field will be
applied. The project must be activated for the check when using WinCC tags.
6. If the column headings are to be output, then confirm this by marking the accompanying
check box. Confirm your entries by clicking "OK". The dialog is closed.
7. Save the layout.

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Dynamizing with WinCC tags

All the tasks in this dialog can also be dynamized with WinCC tags. To do so, activate the
"Tag" checkbox in the "Data connection" dialog and select a tag form the tag selection dialog
using the folder button. If you know the tag name, you can enter it directly instead. The tags
must all be of the "Text" type.
In order to dynamize parameters for output, the necessary tags must be set in the WinCC tag
management. WinCC tags can be provided with new values in runtime. You can find further
information on this subject in the section "Types of dynamization".

Formatting the table output

You can format the table output by including the formating instructions in the SQL statement
with the help of control characters. The formating is as follows for the example of the text
alignment in the table:
Format statement

Representation

SELECT tag name FROM MCPTVARIABLEDESC aligns by default the column text to the left
SELECT tag name as '<ALIGN=right> tag name '
FROM MCPTVARIABLEDESC

aligns the column text including column title to the

right

SELECT '<ALIGN=right>' + tag name as Name'

FROM MCPTVARIABLEDESC

aligns the column title towards the left and the

column text to the right

SELECT '<ALIGN=left>' + tag name as

'<ALIGN=center> Name' FROM
MCPTVARIABLEDESC

aligns the column title in the center and the column

text to the left

Control Characters for Table Output

<END>

If the interpretation of control sequences is done, the rest of the

text will be transferred as it is given.
<COLOR=#rrggbb>
Font color in hexadecimal notation (default = as set for the table)
<BGCOLOR=#rrggbb> Background color in hexadecimal notation (default = as set for the
table)
<B>
Bold
<U>
Underlined
<I>
Italic
<STRIKE>
Strike-through
<ALIGN=left>
Left aligned
<ALIGN=center>
Centered
<ALIGN=right>
Right aligned
CAUTION
The SQL statements are not subject to any constraints. If you do the wrong thing, it is possible
to destroy or delete the data source.

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Change Column Width

The width of the columns for output can be set individually for every column.
1. Enable the properties tab in the "Object properties" window.
2. In the "Geometry" property group double-click the "Columns" attribute to open the "Table
columns" dialog.

3. Use the dialog to define the column width of the individual columns. The widths of the
columns can be changed relative to one another. Every column will receive its assigned
share of the total width.
4. Confirm your entries with "OK".

Changing ODBC Database Tables with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing the ODBC Database Table by Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in the section entitled "Change Attribute".

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Dynamic Standard Objects (Page1618)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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Working with the Tag Object

Introduction
With the Tag dynamic object, you can output the tag value or the return value of a C action
during configuration in runtime.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to insert a Tag object.
2. In the Object Palette, click the standard object Tag.
3. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where you with to insert the
tag.
The Tag Selection dialog is opened.
4. Select the tag you want from the list of WinCC tags and confirm your selection with the OK
button. The Output Value attribute now contains this tag.

Linking a Script
Using the Calculation attribute in the Miscellaneous object property, you can call up a script
for the output. Then a tag must not be selected.
1. If no script has been specified, then the Create a New Script option field is enabled. After
confirmation of this dialog, the Edit Action dialog opens. In this dialog you can formulate an
action in the high-level language ANSI-C.
2. Set the data type for the return value in the Return Value field. You can only set the data
type while creating the script; it is not possible to change it later.
The following data types are available: long, double and char.
3. If a script has already been specified, then you can edit this script by selecting the option
Edit an Existing Script
4. Select the option Delete an Existing Script to delete the specified script without a query
when the dialog is confirmed.

Setting the Output Format

You can set the display of the output value with the Output Format attribute. The display
depends on the data type.
Data type

Format

Description

Binary

Every 1 stands for a character of the output value. A preceding 0

indicates that a leading zero (corresponding to the number position) will
be added if necessary.

String

the existing string will be output

String

n characters will be output, starting from the left.

Hexadecimal

Every f stands for a character of the output value. A preceding 0

indicates that a leading zero corresponding to the number position will
be added if necessary.

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Data type

Format

Description

Decimal

the sign will be output

Decimal

Exponent display

Decimal

digit between 0 and 9

Decimal

Leading zero will be output

Decimal

Decimal point

Example for the Output

The example shows the different output formats for the output of the value 1.0 of the Decimal
data type.
Output format

Display

9.9

1.0

s9.9

+1.0

s9.99e

+1.0e+000

099.99

01.00

Changing a Tag Object with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing Tag Objects by Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in chapter Changing Attribute.

See also
Working with Dynamic Standard Objects (Page1618)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)

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8.5.8.4

Working with System Objects

Introduction
The following system objects can be output in a report:
date and time
Page number
Project name
Layout name
You can only paste system objects into the static part of a page layout.

Requirements
The display of the object palette must be enabled.

Procedure
1. Open the layout in which you want to paste a system object.
2. Select Static Part from the View menu.
3. Click the system object you want on the Standard Objects tab in the object palette.
4. Place the mouse pointer at the position in the layout where
5. Hold down the mouse button and drag the object to the size and direction you want.
When you release the mouse button, the system object is finished.

Format Options
You can set the display of the output value with the following format options. The representation
is dependent on the data format. If no format is set, a predefined format will be used for all
system objects during the report output.
System object

Format

Description

Layout name

%L or %l

the layout name

Project name

%R or %r

the project name

Page number

%N or %n

the current page number

Page number

%T or %t

the total page count

Date/Time

%a

Weekday, short form

Date/Time

%A

Weekday, written out

Date/Time

%b

Month, short form

Date/Time

%B

Month, written out

Date/Time

%c

Date and time in standard format

Date/Time

%d

Day and month as decimal number (01-31)

Date/Time

%H

Hours in 24 hour format (00-23)

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System object

Format

Description

Date/Time

%I

Hours in 12 hour format (01-12)

Date/Time

%j

Day of the year as a decimal number (000-366)

Date/Time

%m

Month as decimal number (01-12)

Date/Time

%M

Minute as decimal number (00-59)

Date/Time

%p

P.M./A.M. code for 12-hour format

Date/Time

%S

Seconds as decimal number(00-59)

Date/Time

%U

Week of the year as decimal number (01-51)

Date/Time

%x

Date in standard format

Date/Time

%X

Time in standard format

Date/Time

%y

Year without century as decimal number (00-99)

Date/Time

%Y

Year with century as decimal number

Date/Time

%z

Time zone as name

Date/Time

%%

Percentage sign

Changing System Objects with the Mouse

Rectangle surrounding the object
Drag the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to arrange the object in
the layout.
Drag the handles on the rectangle surrounding the object to a new position in order to resize
the object.

Palettes and toolbars

Use elements of the Style Palette to change the display style for the object.

Changing System Objects by Value Input

The display of objects can also be changed by entering new values in the attributes. You will
find more information in chapter Changing Attribute.

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
How to Paste an Object into a Layout (Page1562)
Overview of the System Objects (Page1529)

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8.5.8.5

Working with the Layout Object

Introduction
A layout opened in the page layout editor is treated as an object. The layout object has object
properties and can be edited Object Properties dialog. However, the properties of the layout
object cannot be transferred to another layout object using the eyedropper.
The layout object has the following property groups:
Colors
Geometry
Miscellaneous
You can obtain further information in the descriptions of the individual property groups in
chapter Properties of an Object.

Requirements
A layout must be open in the page layout editor.

Procedure
1. Click with the mouse on any free space in the working area. Click the Properties button in
the toolbar. The Object Properties dialog will open.
2. Click the Properties tab.
3. Select the property group you want from the left area. The available attributes are shown
in the right area.
4. Edit the attributes you want.
5. Save your changes.
In principle, changes to the properties of a layout object effect the cover sheet, the report
contents and the closing page.
The object name of the layout object is not displayed in the object selection of the Object
Properties dialog. Therefore, the layout object cannot be selected in the Object Properties
dialog using the object selection. If the Object Properties dialog is already open and fixed with
the pin, then simply click any free area of the work area for selection.

See also
The Miscellaneous Property Group (Page1585)
The Geometry Property Group (Page1581)
The Colors Property Group (Page1579)

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8.5.9

Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation

8.5.9.1

Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation

Introduction
The following chapters provide details regarding the Page Layout Editor objects available for
the runtime documentation.

Application
The runtime documentation objects are available for the output of runtime data in logs. The
objects are linked with the pertinent WinCC applications and provide the output data in runtime.
The objects for runtime documentation can only be inserted in the dynamic part of a page
layout.
Configure only the basic properties of the layout for the "WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider"
object. The report parameters for the output are determined by properties of the WinCC Control
and cannot be assigned dynamic properties.
In addition to the basic properties, configure the static and dynamic report parameters of the
layout for all other objects of the Runtime documentation. The objects provide dialogs for the
selection of output data.

See also
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1651)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Rectangle Surrounding the Object (Page1560)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1635)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1638)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1640)
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1643)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1645)
Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1647)
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1649)
Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1529)

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8.5.9.2

Modify output options for WinCC Online Table Control

How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Online Table Control/Table" report object is used to output process data from the
associated Tag Logging Archives in a tabular format.
You can define static parameters for each column of the table and for some proper properties
of Control.

Requirements
The WinCC Online Table Control/Table object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Process value archives or compression archives are inserted
Archive tags have been inserted

Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Parameterization". The
dialog with the Control properites is displayed.
2. Configure in the Columns tab the columns you want to output. Select an archive tag for
each column.

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3. Define the table properties in the General tab. Only the non-grayed options can be
customized for report output.

4. Configure the time range to be considered for each column in the Column tab.

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You can enter a start time and an end time or a start time with a time range. If the "Update"
checkbox is activated, the start time refers to the current time. The previous values are then
output in the defined time interval.
1. Configure the time and value display formats in the Column tab.

See also
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1638)

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How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Online Table Control/Table" report object is used to output process data from the
associated Tag Logging Archives in a tabular format.
You can define dynamic parameters for each column of the table and for some proper
properties of Control.
For a print order, the dynamizable parameters of WinCC Online Table Control are provided
with the current values of the assigned WinCC tags during runtime.
Value are supplied to WinCC tag through scripts, process-controlled actions or via other
WinCC applications. An overview of the dynamizable Runtime documentation parameters is
included in chapter Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation.

Requirements
The WinCC Online Table Control/Table object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Process value archives or compression archives are inserted
Archive tags have been inserted
You have inserted the columns for the output via the static parameters.

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Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Dynamized
Parameterization". The dialog with the list of dynamizable properties opens.

2. In the Parameter list, click the property you want to dynamize. When you click with the
mouse the "?" icon, you will get the following information:
Description of the properties
Format of the properties
Suitable tag type
3. Click the tag selection symbol on the upper right side. The tag selection dialog is displayed.
4. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag. Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection
dialog. If necessary, specify a start value for the tag.
5. Apply the settings by clicking OK and save the layout.

See also
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Table Control (Page1635)
Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation (Page1479)

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8.5.9.3

Modify output options for WinCC Online Trend Control

How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Trend Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Online Trend Control/Picture" report object is used to output process data from
the associated Tag Logging Archives in the form of a trend.
You can define static parameters for each trend and for some properties of Control.

Requirements
The WinCC Online Trend Control/Picture object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Process value archives or compression archives are inserted
Archive tags have been inserted

Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Parameterization". The
dialog with the Control properites is displayed.
2. Configure in the Columns tab the columns you want to output.
Select an archive tag for each trend
Define the display format for each trend
Define the display line weight for each trend

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3. Define the Control properties in the General tab. Only the non-grayed options can be
customized for report output.

4. Configure the time range or measurement range for each trend in the "Time Axis" tab.

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To output values for a time range, either define the start time or the end time or a start time
with a time range. To output values for a measurement range define the start time and the
number of measuring points.
If the "Update" checkbox is activated, the start time refers to the current time. The previous
values are then output in the defined time interval or measurement range.
1. For each trend, comfigure the properties of the value axis in the Value Axis tab.

See also
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1643)

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How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of the WinCC Online Trend Control
Introduction
The "WinCC Online Trend Control/Picture" report object is used to output process data from
the associated Tag Logging Archives in the form of a trend.
You can define dynamic parameters for each trend and for some properties of Control.
For a print order, the dynamizable parameters of WinCC Online Trend Control are provided
with the current values of the assigned WinCC tags during runtime.
Value are supplied to WinCC tag through scripts, process-controlled actions or via other
WinCC applications. An overview of the Runtime documentation parameters that can be
dynamized is included in chapter Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation.

Requirements
The WinCC Online Trend Control/Picture object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Process value archives or compression archives are inserted
Archive tags have been inserted
You have inserted the trends for the output via the static parameters.

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Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Dynamized
Parameterization". The dialog with the list of dynamizable properties opens.

2. In the Parameter list, click the property you want to dynamize. When you click in the list the
"?" icon, you will get the following information:
Description of the properties
Format of the properties
Suitable tag type
3. Click the tag selection symbol on the upper right side. The tag selection dialog is displayed.
4. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag. Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection
dialog. If necessary, specify a start value for the tag.
5. Apply the settings by clicking OK and save the layout.

See also
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Online Trend Control (Page1640)
Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation (Page1479)

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8.5.9.4

Modify output options for WinCC Function Trend Control

How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Function Trend Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Function Trend Control/Picture" report object is used to output process data as
function of another tag from the process value, compression and user archives in the form of
a trend.
You can define static parameters for each trend and for some properties of Control.

Requirements
The WinCC Function Trend Control/Picture object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Process value archives, compression archives or user archives are inserted
Archive tags have been inserted

Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Parameterization". The
dialog with the Control properites is displayed.
2. Configure in the Columns tab the columns you want to output.
Configure, if required, the setpoint trend for each trend
Define the display format for each trend
Define the display line weight for each trend

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3. Define the Control properties in the General tab. Only the non-grayed options can be
customized for report output.

4. In the Data Link tab, configure the data supply for the trends with archive tags or from user
archives.
5. In the X-Axis and Y-Axis tabs, configure the axis properties for each trend.

See also
Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1647)

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Configuring the dynamic parameters of the WinCC Function Trend Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Function Trend Control/Picture" report object is used to output process data as
function of another tag from the process value, compression and user archives in the form of
a trend.
You can define dynamic parameters for each trend and for some properties of Control.
For a print job, the dynamizable parameters of WinCC Function Trend Control are provided
with the current values of the assigned WinCC tags during runtime.
Value are supplied to WinCC tag through scripts, process-controlled actions or via other
WinCC applications. An overview of the Runtime documentation parameters that can be
dynamized is included in chapter Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation.

Requirements
The WinCC Function Trend Control/Picture object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Process value archives, compression archives or user archives are inserted
Archive tags have been inserted
You have inserted the trends for the output via the static parameters.

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Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Dynamized
Parameterization". The dialog with the list of dynamizable properties opens.

2. In the Parameter list, click the property of a trend or control you want to dynamize. When
you click with the mouse the "?" icon, you will get the following information:
Description of the properties
Format of the properties
Suitable tag type
3. Click the tag selection symbol on the upper right side. The tag selection dialog is displayed.
4. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag. Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection
dialog. If necessary, specify a start value for the tag.
5. Apply the settings by clicking OK and save the layout.

See also
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Function Trend Control (Page1645)
Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation (Page1479)

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8.5.9.5

Modify output options for WinCC Alarm Control

How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Alarm Control/Table" report object is used to output the message lists in a tabular
format.
For the output, define a message list and configure the static parameters of the message list.

Requirements
The "WinCC Alarm Control/Table" object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Message configuration has been carried out in Alarm Logging

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Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Parameterization". The
dialog with the Control properites is displayed.
2. Define the message list you want to output in the General tab. Configure the Control
properties. Only the non-grayed options can be customized for report output.

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3. In the Message Blocks tab, configure the message blocks that are to be considered for the
message list output.
4. Assign the message blocks to the table columns of the message list in the Message List
tab. Click the "Selection..." button to open a dialog where you define the messages you
want to output.

See also
How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1651)

How to Configure the Dynamic Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control

Introduction
The "WinCC Alarm Control/Table" report object is used to output the message lists in a tabular
format.
You can define dynamic parameters for output to message lists.
In Runtime, the dynamic parameters are read from the system and written to the WinCC tags.
The start values of the tags are overwritten.

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Value are supplied to WinCC tag through scripts, process-controlled actions or via other
WinCC applications. An overview of the Runtime documentation parameters that can be
dynamized is included in chapter Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation.

Requirements
The "WinCC Alarm Control/Table" object is pasted into the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
Message configuration has been carried out in Alarm Logging
You have configured the message list for the output via the static parameters.

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Procedure
1. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, click the entry "Dynamized
Parameterization". The dialog with the list of dynamizable properties opens.

2. In the Parameter list, click the property you want to dynamize. When you click with the
mouse the "?" icon, you will get the following information:
Description of the properties
Format of the properties
Suitable tag type
3. Click the tag selection symbol on the upper right side. The tag selection dialog is displayed.
4. Select the desired tag, or create a new tag. Edit the properties of the tag in the tag selection
dialog. If necessary, specify a start value for the tag.
5. Apply the settings by clicking OK and save the layout.

See also
How to Configure the Static Parameters of WinCC Alarm Control (Page1649)
Dynamizable Parameters for Runtime Documentation (Page1479)

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8.5.9.6

Changing Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging

How to Change the Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging Runtime
Introduction
You can control the output of messages from the message list or from the message archive
in Runtime in advance via a user-specific selection of messages.

Overview
The following layouts are available for alarm logging in Runtime in the page layout editor:
Archive report
Message report

The layout is linked to the Alarm Logging message archive and serves to
display the messages recorded there in a log.
The layout is linked to the Alarm Logging Runtime and serves to display
the current message list in a log. The layout also provides a message
sequence report in a page layout.

The output data selection procedure is the same for both layouts. In the following, the steps
are described for the message report.
In order to return a user-specific selection of messages, you can use a pre-defined layout, or
create your own layout. You can also create multiple layouts, filter the messages through the
selection criteria, and return them in separate logs. For the layout output, you need to configure
a job. See for more information.

Requirements
The object "Message report" has already been inserted in the layout
The inserted object has been selected
The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
Message configuration has been carried out in Alarm Logging.

Editing Options
For the objects "Archive report" and "Message report", you can select the data from the
message system as well as the time base.

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Procedure
1. Open the "Link" tab in the "Object Properties" window and double-click the entry "Selection"
in the list of editing options. The "Alarm Logging Runtime: Log Tables - Selection" dialog
opens.
2. Select the output data using the dialog. The dialog is described under "Selection of data
for a message report".
3. Apply the settings by clicking "OK".

See also
How to Modify the Time Range (Page1655)
Filter Criteria for the Alarm Output (Page1699)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)
Selection of the Data for a Message Report (Page1656)

How to Modify the Time Range

Introduction
By changing the base for time specifications, you can convert the indicated time in the time
stamp to a different time base. These indicated times are only converted for output in the log;
they are not written back to the Alarm Log or Tag Log, or user archives. If, for example, you
want to output the data of a remote computer in another time zone, you can use this function
to ensure that the data is output with a comparable time. If, in this case, both computers worked
with the time base "Local Time", the two systems would contain logs with different time
specifications. The results would not be directly comparable. You can find additional
information in the section "Adjusting the Time Settings in the Project".
If you change the time base for the output, ensure that the time reference is also output in the
report. For example, specify an identifier in the alias for the "Time" message block. For more
details, please refer to "Selection of data for a message report".

Requirements
The object "Message report" has already been inserted in the layout
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
Message configuration has been carried out in Alarm Logging.

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Edit Options
For the objects "Archive report" and "Message report", you can select the data from the
message system as well as the time base.

Procedure
1. In the "Object Properties" window, you can also change the base for time specifications.
To do that, double-click the entry "Base for time specifications" in the list of editing options.
The following dialog will open.

2. Select the required time base and confirm your selection with "OK".
3. Modify the external form of the object, if necessary, by changing the attribute values in the
Properties tag.
4. Close the "Object Properties" dialog and save the layout.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for User Archive Tables (Page1658)
How to Change the Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging Runtime
(Page1654)

Selection of the Data for a Message Report

Data Selection
The "Alarm Logging Runtime: Report Table Column Selection dialog is used to select the data
to output in the message report or the message archive report. It allows you to select the
servers, message blocks, and filter criteria for alarm output.

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Selecting the Servers

Server selection is only necessary if you:
generate the message reports on a WinCC Client.

or
in distributed systems, generate the message reports for one server on another server.
In the "Selection: Server from the Project Data" area, you can select the servers whose
messages are to be logged. Only those servers whose "packages" have been loaded are
offered. The selected servers are displayed in the window. In the case of a single-user and
multi-user project this selection is not required.

Dynamization of Server Selection by Means of a WinCC Variable

You can dynamize server selection in order to select servers when a project is activated directly
before logging is started. The report system reads the value from the variable at runtime. If the
variable cannot be read, the configured value is used.
1. Select the "Variable" check box. The text box and the folder button are activated.
2. Use the folder button to open the variable selection dialog. Select the desired variable there,
and close the variable selection dialog. Alternatively, enter the variable name directly in the
text box.
Configure value assignment to the WinCC variable. You will find more information in the section
"Types of Dynamization".

Selecting Message Blocks

In the "Assignment: Message Blocks -> Table Columns" area, you can define the message
blocks for output in the report. In the "Message Blocks" area, select the desired message
blocks from the list of existing message blocks. Insert the message blocks, individually or in
groups, in the current column sequence list using the controls provided in the dialog.

Editing the Properties of the Message Blocks

From the list of the current column sequence of the report you can select individual message
blocks and edit their properties. To do this, select a message block from the current column
sequence of the report and click the "Properties" button. You can now assign an alias to the
block name and change the format for the date and time message blocks. The appearance of
the dialog that opens depends on the type of message block selected. The changes are only
effective for the output of the report and are not written back to the Alarm Logging.
If the "Use Aliases" check box is selected, the configured aliases are output as the column
headings. The aliases cannot be configured for multiple languages. If the check box is cleared,
the names of the message blocks are used as column headings. If the language is changed,
the names stored for the message blocks in the text library are output. By default, the check
box is cleared. If the "Use Aliases" check box is selected and there are no aliases configured,
the names of the message blocks are output.

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Setting Filter Criteria for Alarm Output

In the "Filter Criteria for Alarm Output" area you can use the "Selection..." button to display the
dialog for setting criteria for alarm output. In the selection dialog, choose your selection criteria
by checking the appropriate boxes. When you apply the settings by clicking the "OK" button,
the selected selection criteria are displayed in the "Filter Criteria for Alarm Output" area. The
individual arguments are always ANDed. You will find more information in the section "Filter
Criteria for Alarm Output".
You can also make a selection in the print job by means of the size or time range. Additional
information can be found in the chapter "Print Jobs in WinCC".

Dynamization by Means of the Configuration Dialog

Instead of setting the dynamics through WinCC tags, you can use the configuration dialog as
well. To do this, select the option "Configuration dialog" from the "Dialog" area of the selected
print job. At the start of the runtime output, the configuration dialog will then be launched.
Through this configuration dialog, you can open the dialog Alarm Logging Runtime: Report
Table Selection described above, and modify the settings directly before the output. For further
details, please see the chapter "Changing output options in runtime".

See also
Filter Criteria for the Alarm Output (Page1699)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)

8.5.9.7

Changing Output Options for User Archive Tables

How to Change the Output Options for User Archive Tables

Introduction
The log object User Archive Runtime/Table is available for the output of runtime data from a
user archive or a view. The object is linked to user archives and provides data output from the
selected user archive/view.
The output data selection procedure is the same for user archives and views. In the following,
the steps are described for a user archive.
To return the current view of the User Archive Table Control, you only need to activate a predefined button in this control. For more details, please refer to chapter Data Output from User
Archives.

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In order to return a user-specific selection of data, you can use a pre-defined layout, or create
your own layout. For the layout output, you need to configure a job. For more details, please
refer to chapter Creating Print Jobs for Runtime Documentation.

Requirements
The object User Archive Runtime Table has already been inserted in the layout.
The inserted object has been selected.
The Object Properties window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
At least one user archive has been created

Editing Options
For the object User Archive Runtime/Table, you can select the data from a user archive or a
view, as well as the time base.

Procedure
1. Open the Link tab in the Object Properties window and double-click the entry Table
Selection in the list of editing options. This opens the Table Selection dialog.
2. Use the dialog to configure the selection of data for output. The dialog is described under
Selection of Data for User Archive Tables.
3. Apply the settings by clicking OK.

See also
How to Modify the Time Range (Page1661)
How to Modify the Time Range (Page1655)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)
Selection of Data for the User Archive Table (Page1660)

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Selection of Data for the User Archive Table

Data Selection
The "Table selection" dialog serves to choose a user archive/view, select the table columns,
and specify the filter conditions and sorting.

Selecting a user archive/view

In the "Archive/View" area, you can select one of the user archives/views that are available in
the project. Clicking on the Folder button will open the Package Browser which lets you select
a user archive/view. You can choose from all user archives/views of the servers whose
packages were loaded.

Selecting the columns

Following the selection of an archive/view, you can choose the desired columns from the
archive/view. When a column is selected, its properties become unlocked. Use the dialog to
specify the format, orientation, number of places returned in the output, etc., for each column.

Setting filter conditions

In the "Filter condition" area, you can use SQL statements to set the filter conditions for the
output values from the archive database. To write up the filter conditions, you need to be
familiar with the database language SQL. For further information, please refer to the user
archive help.

Setting the sorting

In the "Sorting" area, you can use SQL statements to set the sorting conditions for the output
values from the archive database. To write up the sorting conditions, you need to be familiar
with the database language SQL. For further information, please refer to the user archive help.

Dynamization through a WinCC variable

You can make the archive/view selection as well as the filter and sorting conditions dynamic
with WinCC variables in order to carry out the selection directly before the logging is triggered

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with an activated project. The report system reads the value from the variable at runtime. If
the variable cannot be read, the configured value is used.
1. Activate the "Tag" check box in the corresponding area of the dialog. The text box and the
folder button are activated.
2. Use the folder button to open the variable selection dialog. Select the desired variable there,
and close the variable selection dialog. Alternatively, enter the variable name directly in the
text box.
Configure value assignment to the WinCC variable. You will find more information in the section
"Types of Dynamization".

Dynamization by Means of the Configuration Dialog

Instead of setting the dynamics through WinCC tags, you can use the configuration dialog as
well. To do this, select the option "Configuration dialog" from the "Dialog" area of the selected
print job. At the start of the runtime output, the configuration dialog will then be launched.
Through this configuration dialog, you can open the dialog "Table selection" described above,
and modify the settings directly before the output. For further details, please see the chapter
"Changing output options in runtime".

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)

How to Modify the Time Range

Introduction
By changing the base for time specifications, you can convert the indicated time in the time
stamp to a different time base. These indicated times are only converted for output in the log;
they are not written back to the Alarm Log or Tag Log, or user archives. If, for example, you
want to output the data of a remote computer in another time zone, you can use this function
to ensure that the data is output with a comparable time. If, in this case, both computers worked
with the time base "Local Time", the two systems would contain logs with different time
specifications. The results would not be directly comparable. You can find additional
information in the section "Adjusting the Time Settings in the Project".
If you change the time base for the output, ensure that the time reference is also output in the
report. For example, specify an identifier in the alias for the "Time" message block. For more
details, please refer to "Selection of data for a message report".

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Requirements
The object "Message report" has already been inserted in the layout
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
Message configuration has been carried out in Alarm Logging.

Edit Options
For the objects "Archive report" and "Message report", you can select the data from the
message system as well as the time base.

Procedure
1. In the "Object Properties" window, you can also change the base for time specifications.
To do that, double-click the entry "Base for time specifications" in the list of editing options.
The following dialog will open.

2. Select the required time base and confirm your selection with "OK".
3. Modify the external form of the object, if necessary, by changing the attribute values in the
Properties tag.
4. Close the "Object Properties" dialog and save the layout.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for User Archive Tables (Page1658)
How to Change the Output Options for Message Reports from Alarm Logging Runtime
(Page1654)

8.5.9.8

How to Change the Output Options for CSV Provider Tables

Introduction
The log object "CSV provider table" is available for the output of user-specific data from a data
source in CSV format. The object can be linked to a data source in CSV format and returns
the data from this source as a table in a WinCC protocol.

Requirements
The object "CSV Provider Table" has already been inserted in the layout
The inserted object has been selected.

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The "Object properties" window is open
You are familiar with the Link tab.
A CSV file is provided, or the file name is known

Edit Options
For the object "CSV provider table", you can select a CSV file for the output.

Procedure
1. Open the "Link" tab in the "Object Properties" window and double-click the entry "CSV table
selection" in the list of editing options. This opens the "CSV table selection" dialog.

2. Use the "..." button to open the file selection dialog. Navigate to the desired CSV data source
and select it, or enter the path and file name directly in the input field.
3. To take over the font and font size from the file, enable the corresponding check boxes in
the dialog. If those boxes are not checked, the settings will be taken from the attributes of
the object properties.
4. Confirm your entries with "OK."
5. You can modify the external form of the object, if necessary, by changing the attribute values
in the Properties tab of the "Object properties" window.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

Changing the Output Options

Dynamization through a WinCC variable
To render the selection of output data more flexible, you can make the file selection dynamic.
This way, you can select the CSV file whose content is to be returned in runtime directly before
the output. The report system reads the value from the variable at runtime. If the variable
cannot be read, the configured value is used.
1. Activate the "Tag" check box in the corresponding area of the dialog. The text box and the
folder button are activated.
2. Use the folder button to open the variable selection dialog. Select the desired variable there,
and close the variable selection dialog. Alternatively, enter the variable name directly in the
text box.
Configure value assignment to the WinCC variable. You will find more information in the section
"Types of Dynamization".

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Dynamization by Means of the Configuration Dialog

Instead of setting the dynamics through WinCC tags, you can use the configuration dialog as
well. To do this, select the option "Configuration dialog" from the "Dialog" area of the selected
print job. At the start of the runtime output, the configuration dialog will then be launched.
Through this configuration dialog, you can open the dialog "CSV table selection" described
above, and modify the settings directly before the output. For further details, please see the
chapter "Changing output options in runtime".

Changing the format options

You can modify the external form of the object, if necessary, by changing the attribute values
in the Properties tab of the "Object properties" dialog. The font and font size settings are applied
only when the corresponding checkboxes in the "CSV table selection" dialog have not been
activated.
If the above mentioned check boxes are activated, the formatting information will be taken
from the CSV file. In the CSV data source, you can add control characters for font size, font,
color and alignment, etc. For information regarding formatting with control characters, please
refer to chapter Reporting Requirements for a CSV Data Source.

See also
Requests to a CSV File for Reporting (Page1696)
How to Change the Output Options for CSV Provider Trends (Page1664)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)

8.5.9.9

How to Change the Output Options for CSV Provider Trends

Introduction
The "CSV provider trend" report object is available for the output of user-specific data from a
data source in CSV format. The object can be linked to a data source in CSV format and returns
the data from this source as a curve in a WinCC protocol.

Requirements
The object "CSV Provider Trend" has already been inserted in the layout
The inserted object has been selected.
The "Object properties" window is open

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You are familiar with the Link tab.
A CSV file is provided, or the file name is known

Edit Options
For the object "CSV Provider Trend", you can select a CSV file for the output.

Procedure
1. Open the "Link" tab in the "Object Properties" window and double-click the entry "CSV table
selection" in the list of editing options. This opens the "CSV table selection" dialog.

2. Use the "..." button to open the file selection dialog. Navigate to the desired CSV data source
and select it, or enter the path and file name directly in the input field.
3. Confirm your entries with "OK."
4. You can modify the external form of the object, if necessary, by changing the attribute values
in the Properties tab of the "Object properties" window.
5. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

Changing the Output Options

Dynamization through a WinCC variable
To render the selection of output data more flexible, you can make the file selection dynamic.
This way, you can select the CSV file whose content is to be returned in runtime directly before
the output. The report system reads the value from the variable at runtime. If the variable
cannot be read, the configured value is used.
1. Activate the "Tag" check box in the corresponding area of the dialog. The text box and the
folder button are activated.
2. Use the folder button to open the variable selection dialog. Select the desired variable there,
and close the variable selection dialog. Alternatively, enter the variable name directly in the
text box.
Configure value assignment to the WinCC variable. You will find more information in the section
"Types of Dynamization".

Dynamization by Means of the Configuration Dialog

Instead of setting the dynamics through WinCC tags, you can use the configuration dialog as
well. To do this, select the option "Configuration dialog" from the "Dialog" area of the selected
print job. At the start of the runtime output, the configuration dialog will then be launched.
Through this configuration dialog, you can open the dialog "CSV trend selection" described

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above, and modify the settings directly before the output. For further details, please see the
chapter "Changing output options in runtime".

Changing the format options

In the CSV data source, you can add control characters for the layout of the trend output.
Numerous options are available. For information regarding formatting with control characters,
please refer to the chapter "Reporting requirements for a CSV data source".

See also
Requests to a CSV File for Reporting (Page1696)
How to Change the Output Options for CSV Provider Tables (Page1662)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Runtime Documentation (Page1634)

8.5.10

Working with Objects for the Project Documentation

8.5.10.1

Working with Objects for the Project Documentation

Introduction
In this chapter, you will find details regarding the available objects of the page layout editor for
the project documentation. You will learn how to work with the objects, and what are the basic
conditions for each object.
The project documentation objects are provided for the report output of configured data. The
objects are linked to the corresponding WinCC applications and return the configuration data
of the WinCC project for output in a report. The objects for project documentation can only be
inserted in the dynamic part of a page layout.

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Some objects provide an option to select output data. This allows you to restrict the output to
the data you currently need. For some of these objects, the selection options are identical. For
each type of selection, this chapter will describe the changes that can be made to the output
options. The relevant objects are listed with the descriptions.
The other objects do not offer an option to select output data. There are 3 types of these
objects. The editing steps to change the output options are identical for objects of the same
type and are described once for each object type.

Objects without data selection

The following object types are available:
Dynamic text
Dynamic metafile
Dynamic table
The modification of output options is described for each of these object types.
Changing output options for dynamic texts
Changing output options for dynamic metafiles
Changing output options for dynamic tables without data selection

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Tables without Data Selection
(Page1695)
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Metafiles (Page1693)
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Texts (Page1692)
How to Call up the Selection Dialogs (Page1668)

8.5.10.2

How to Call up the Selection Dialogs

Selection dialogs are called in the same way for all project documentation objects. The
selection options depend on the object in question.

Requirements
A project documentation object has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Procedure
1. Open the branching node(s) on the left of the Link tab. Choose and entry and select it. The
list of editing options will then show the item "Selection...". The available selection type
depends on the object which was chosen from the object tree.
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection...". This will open the corresponding selection dialog.

Depending on the object, you may be given several selection options in the area on the right.
In this case, make your selections one after the other. When a selection has been made, its
symbol on the right will be checked with a red mark. The entry "Element" is used for internal
purposes only.

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If the left side of the window contains several hierarchical entries, the subentries may offer
various selection options, too. This depends on the object in question. It allows you to carry
out a hierarchical selection.
In the picture above, for example, the entry "Object" was marked in the window on the left; the
objects can now be selected in the window on the right. The entry "Attributes" is then marked
on the left. The attributes can now be selected on the right.

In the output, only the selected attributes for the objects chosen in the previous step will be
returned.
For an overview of available objects and output options for each component of WinCC, please
refer to the chapter "Project documentation".

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Connection List (Page1691)
How to Change the Output Options for the Tag Table of WinCC Explorer (Page1689)
How to Change the Output Options for the Language Selection from the Text Library
(Page1687)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of the Archive Tags from Tag Logging
(Page1684)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Archives from Tag Logging
(Page1682)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Action types (Page1680)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Object Statistics (Page1679)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Attributes (Page1677)
How to Change the Output options for the Selection of the Picture Statistics (Page1675)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Views (Page1673)
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of User Archives (Page1671)
How to Change Output Options for Single Message from Alarm Logging CS (Page1670)

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8.5.10.3

How to Change Output Options for Single Message from Alarm Logging CS

Introduction
The object "Single Messages" allows you to output all, or individually selected, messages from
Alarm Logging in a report. The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the
"Project documentation" tab under "Alarm Logging CS".

Requirements
Messages must be configured in Alarm Logging.
The object "Single Messages" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
Of all the objects for the Alarm Logging project documentation, the object "Single Messages"
is the only one that provides the option to select your output data.
For further information, please see the chapter "Project documentation in Alarm Logging".

Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Single messages".
The list of editing options will then show the item "Selection".
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection". The Alarm Logging CS dialog: Selecting Single
Messages dialog is opened.

If the "All single messages" checkbox is checked, all configured single messages that are
available at the time the report is generated will be returned. The buttons for accepting the
messages will only be enabled when the checkbox "All single messages" has been
deactivated.
3. Select the desired items from the list of available single messages and add them individually
or in groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected single messages.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
5. Modify the external form of the object "Single Messages", if necessary, by changing the
attribute values in the Properties tab.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.4

How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of User Archives

Introduction
The object "Archive" allows you to output the configuration data of user archives in a report.
The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project documentation" tab
under "User archive configuration".

Requirements
A user archive must have been created.
The object "Archives" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
The objects "Archive" and "Views" are available for the project documentation of the user
archive configuration. Both objects offer options to select data for output. For further
information about the "Views" object, please see the chapter "Changing output options for the
selection of views".

Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Archives". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Archive selection".
2. Double-click on the entry "Archive selection". This will open the Archive selection dialog.

If the "All" checkbox is checked, all configured archives that are available at the time the
report is generated will be returned.

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3. From the list of available archives, select one or more for output.
4. Activate the check boxes for the archive attributes which you want to appear in the report.
5. To include archive field information in the output, activate the checkbox "Display fields".
6. Activate the check boxes for the field attributes which you want to appear in the report.
7. Confirm the selection with "OK".
8. Modify the external form of the object "Views", if necessary, by changing the attribute values
in the Properties tag.
9. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.
Note
If multiple user archives were selected, the selection of archive attributes will be applied
to all selected user archives. If the checkbox "All" is activated, the configuration data of
all user archives within the WinCC project will be returned. The selection of archive
attributes applies to all user archives in this case as well.
The following table shows all the attributes that can be returned. The functions of the attributes
are briefly described.

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Attributes

Description

ID

ID of the user archive or field.

Name

Name of the user archive or field.

Alias

Alias name of the user archive or field.

Type

Shows whether a user archive belongs to the type Limited or Unlimited (maximum
number of data records limited or unlimited).
With fields, the type is the same as the tag type.

Size

The size of the user archive.

Changed

The date of the last change.

Com. Type

Communication type of the connection between user archive and automation

level.

PLCID

Identification number for the connection between user archive and automation
level.

Variable

For archives, the name of the WinCC tag for the connection to the automation
level.
For fields, the value in the user archive field.

ID tag

Name of the control tag "ID".

Job tag

Name of the control tag "Job".

Field tag

Name of the control tag "Field".

Value tag

Name of the control tag "Value".

Reading rights

Reading rights allocated for an archive or archive field.

Write protection

Writing rights allocated for an archive or archive field.

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Attributes

Description

Flags)

Information about set flags.

For archives:
Flag for last access, output = LA
Flag for last user, output = U
For fields:
Flag for Field must possess a value, output = NN
Flag for Field must possess a unique value, output = U
Flag for Field should be supported by an index, output = I

Length

Length of the user archive field.

Decimal places

Number of decimal places in the user archive field.

Minimum

Configured minimum value of the user archive field.

Maximum

Configured maximum value of the user archive field.

Start value

Configured start value of the user archive field.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Views (Page1673)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.5

How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Views

Introduction
The object "Views" allows you to return the configuration data for views of user archives in a
report. The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project
documentation" tab under "User archive configuration".

Requirements
A view must have been created.
The object "Views" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
The objects "Archive" and "Views" are available for the project documentation of the user
archive configuration. Both objects offer options to select data for output. For further
information about the object "Archives", please see the chapter "Changing output options for
the selection of user archives".

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Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Views". The list of
editing options will then show the item "View selection".
2. Double-click on the entry "View selection". This will open the View selection dialog.

If the "All" checkbox is active, all configured views that are available at the time the report
is generated will be returned.
3. From the list of available views, select one or more for output.
4. Activate the check boxes for the view attributes which you want to appear in the report.
5. To include view column information in the output, activate the checkbox "Display columns".
6. Activate the check boxes for the columns which you want to appear in the report.
7. Confirm the selection with "OK".
8. Modify the external form of the object "Views", if necessary, by changing the attribute values
in the Properties tag.
9. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.
Note
If multiple views were selected, the selection of view attributes will be applied to all selected
views. If the checkbox "All" is activated, the configuration data of all views within the WinCC
project will be returned. The selection of view attributes applies to all views in this case as
well.

The following table shows all the attributes that can be returned. The functions of the attributes
are briefly described.

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Attributes

Description

ID

ID of the view or column.

Name

Name of the view or column.

Alias

Alias name of the view or column.

Relation

Shows the relation between the user archive fields in a view.

Changed

Date and time of the last change.

Archive ID

ID of the user archive.

archive

Name of the user archive.

Field ID

ID of the user archive field.

Array

Name of the user archive field.

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See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of User Archives (Page1671)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.6

How to Change the Output options for the Selection of the Picture Statistics

Introduction
The object "Picture Statistics" allows you to output the statistics data for the pictures of the
Graphic Designer in a report. The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in
the "Project documentation" tab under "Graphics Designer/Picture".

Requirements
A Graphics Designer picture must have been created.
The object "Picture statistics" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
For the object "Picture statistics", you can select the statistic data.
For an overview of available objects for the product documentation of the Graphics Designer
and their output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in the Graphics
Designer".

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Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Picture Statistics".
The list of editing options will then show the item "Statistics data for the picture".
2. Double-click on the entry "Statistics data for the picture". This will open the dialog "Selection
of picture statistics".

If the checkbox "with descriptive column" is checked, a descriptive column will be returned
along with the statistics data.
3. Choose the desired items from the list of selection options and add them individually or in
groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected data.
4. Using the "Up" and "Down" buttons, specify the output sequence of the tags.
5. Confirm the selection with "OK".
6. Modify the external form of the object "Picture Statistics", if necessary, by changing the
attribute values in the Properties tag.
7. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

Output with descriptive column

Picture name
Creation date
Number of objects in the picture
Number of objects with tag connection

PictureDocumentation.Pdl
23.07.2002 13:33:47
1
0

Output without descriptive column

PictureDocumentation.Pdl
23.07.2002 13:33:47
1
0

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See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.7

How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Attributes

Introduction
The object "Attributes" facilitates the output of configuration data for the attributes of Graphics
Designer pictures and objects within in a report. The provided selection options allow you to
limit the output to relevant information.
You have two choices:
All with tag connection Returns all attributes which are linked to a tag.
All with action connection Returns all attributes which are linked to an action.
All not interconnected Returns all attributes which are not dynamic.
The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project documentation" tab
under "Graphics Designer/Picture," and under "Graphics Designer/Picture/Object".

Requirements
A Graphics Designer picture must have been created.
The object "Attributes" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
For the "Attributes" object of a picture, you can select the attributes as well as the table data.
For the "Attributes" object of an object within a picture, you can additionally select the objects.
Only the table data of the selected objects will be returned then. For further information, please
see the chapter "Calling the selection dialogs".
For an overview of available objects for the product documentation of the Graphics Designer
and their output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in the Graphics
Designer".

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Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Attributes". The list
of editing options will then show the entries "Selection of attributes" and "Table data".
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection of attributes". This will open the dialog "Selection of
attributes".

Make your choices from the list of selection options.

3. Click on the "Default Attributes" button. This will open the dialog "List of default attributes".

Select the attributes that are to be returned always. Confirm the selection with "OK".
4. In the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties" window, double-click the entry "Table data". This
will open the dialog "Selection of table data".

5. From the list of selection options, choose the info columns which are to appear in the
attribute data table.
6. Confirm the selection with "OK".
7. Modify the external form of the object "Attributes", if necessary, by changing the attribute
values in the Properties tag.
8. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
How to Call up the Selection Dialogs (Page1668)

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8.5.10.8

How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Object Statistics

Introduction
The object "Object Statistics" allows you to output the statistics data for the objects within the
pictures of the Graphic Designer in a report. The object is located in the Page Layout Editor
object tree, in the "Project documentation" tab under "Graphics Designer/Picture/Object".

Requirements
A Graphics Designer picture must have been created.
The object "Object Statistics" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
For the object "Object Statistics", you can select the objects as well as the statistics data. Only
the statistics data of the selected objects will be returned then. For further information, please
see the chapter "Calling the selection dialogs".
For an overview of available objects for the product documentation of the Graphics Designer
and their output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in the Graphics
Designer".

Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Object". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Selection of Objects".
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection of objects". This will open the dialog "Selection of
objects".

Specify whether all objects should appear in the output, or only dynamic objects from
Graphics Designer pictures. Confirm the selection with "OK".

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3. On the left of the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Object statistics". This will
open the dialog "Statistics on the Object".

If the checkbox "with descriptive column" is checked, a descriptive column will be returned
along with the statistics data.
4. Choose the desired items from the list of selection options and add them individually or in
groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected data.
5. Using the "Up" and "Down" buttons, specify the output sequence of the tags.
6. Confirm the selection with "OK".
7. Modify the external form of the object "Picture Statistics", if necessary, by changing the
attribute values in the Properties tag.
8. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
How to Call up the Selection Dialogs (Page1668)

8.5.10.9

How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Action types

Introduction
The objects "Trigger" and "Source text" facilitate the output of configuration data for the actions
within Graphics Designer pictures and objects in a report.
You have two choices:
All Returns all elements with actions. Also returns all elements which have not yet been
configured at the time of this selection.
Assignment actions Returns all elements with assignment actions.
No assignment actions Returns all elements without assignment actions.
The objects are located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project documentation"
tab under "Graphics Designer/Actions", and under "Graphics Designer/Picture/Actions".

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Requirements
A Graphics Designer picture must have been created.
One of the objects "Trigger" or "Source text" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
You can select the actions for the objects "Trigger" and "Source text" of a picture.
For the objects "Trigger" and "Source text" of an object within a picture, you can additionally
select the objects. Only the action data of the selected objects will then be returned. For further
information, please see the chapter "Calling the selection dialogs".
For an overview of available objects for the product documentation of the Graphics Designer
and their output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in the Graphics
Designer".

Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Actions". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Selection of actions".
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection of actions". This will open the dialog "Selection of action
types".

Select the action types you want.

3. Confirm the selection with "OK".
4. Modify the external form of the object, if necessary, by changing the attribute values in the
Properties tag.
5. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
How to Call up the Selection Dialogs (Page1668)

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8.5.10.10 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Archives from Tag Logging
Introduction
The objects "Process value archive" and "Compressed archive" facilitate the output of
configuration data for process value and compressed archives in a report.
The objects are located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project documentation"
tab under "Tag Logging CS/Archives".

Requirements
A process value or compressed archive must have been created.
One of the objects "Process value archive" or "Compressed archive" has been inserted in
the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
For the objects "Process value archive" and "Compressed archive", you can select both the
archives and the archive data.
For an overview of available objects for the Tag Logging product documentation and their
output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in Tag Logging".

Selection of Archives
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select an entry, either "Process value
archive" or "Compressed archive". The list of editing options will then show the item "Archive
names".
2. Double-click on the entry "Archive names". The Tag Logging CS: Archive Selection dialog
is opened.

If the "All archives" checkbox is checked, the data of all archives will be returned. An existing
selection will be preserved in the dialog.
3. Choose the desired items from the list of available archives and add them individually or in
groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected data.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".

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Selection of Process Value Archive Data

1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Process value archive". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Process value archive data".
2. Double-click on the entry "Process value archive data". The Tag Logging CS: Process
Archive Data Selection dialog is opened.

3. Choose the configuration data you want to appear in the output.

4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
5. Modify the external form of the object "Process value archive", if necessary, by changing
the attribute values in the Properties tag.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.
The following table shows all the attributes that can be returned. The functions of the attributes
are briefly described.
Attributes

Description

Comment

Brief description or comments about the archive.

Archive type

Type of the selected archive, here: Process value archive.

Server name

Server which is accessed by the archive.

Authorization

Authorization for read or write access.

Action During archive start/Enable Specified action which is triggered by certain events.
Archiving at system start

Returns the starting type of the archive.

Archive type

Type of the selected archive, short-term or long-term archive.

Fill level message

Edited fill level messages for the archive.

Size in data records

Specified number of data records which can be stored in a shortterm archive.

Memory location

Storage location for swap-out.

Action for relocating the shortterm archive

Specified action for swap-out.

Variable

The configured archive tags.

Selection of compressed archive data

1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Compressed archive". The list of editing
options will then show the item "Compressed archive data".
2. Double-click the entry "Compressed archive data". The Tag Logging CS: Compressed
Archive Data Selection dialog is opened.

3. Choose the configuration data you want to appear in the output.

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4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
5. Modify the external form of the object "Compressed archive", if necessary, by changing the
attribute values in the Properties tag.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.
The following table shows all the attributes that can be returned. The functions of the attributes
are briefly described.
Attributes

Description

Comment

Brief description or comments about the archive.

Archive type

Type of the selected archive, here: Compressed archive.

Server name

Server which is accessed by the archive.

Authorization

Authorization for read or write access.

Action During archive start/Enable

Specified action which is triggered by certain events.

Archive type

Type of the selected archive, short-term or long-term archive.

Compressed archive

Name of the compressed archive.

Archiving at system start

Returns the starting type of the archive.

Variable

The configured archive tags.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)
How to Call up the Selection Dialogs (Page1668)

8.5.10.11 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of the Archive Tags from Tag Logging
Introduction
The objects "Process value archive tag" and "Compressed archive tag" facilitate the output of
configuration data for process value and compressed archive tags in a report.
The objects are located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project documentation"
tab under "Tag Logging CS/Archives".

Requirements
A process value or compressed archive must have been created.
One of the objects "Process value archive tag" or "Compressed archive tag" has been
inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

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Edit Options
For the objects "Process value archive tag" and "Compressed archive tag", you can select the
archives, tags and tag data.
For an overview of available objects for the Tag Logging product documentation and their
output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in Tag Logging".

Selection of the Process Value Archive Tag

1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select an entry, either "Process value
archive tag" or "Compressed archive tag". The list of editing options will then show the item
"Tag".
2. Double-click the "Tag" entry. The Tag Logging CS: Archive Tag Selection dialog is opened.

In the "Archive" area, select one or more tag types.

3. In the "Archive" area, choose a process value archive from the selection list. The process
tags of the selected type which are available in the system are shown in the "Available"
window.
4. Choose the desired items from the list of available tags and add them individually or in
groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected data.
5. Confirm the selection with "OK".

Selection of Process Value Archive Tag Data

1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Process value archive tag". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Tag data".
2. Double-click the "Tag data" entry. The Tag Logging CS: Tag Data Selection dialog is
opened.

3. Choose the configuration data you want to appear in the output.

4. Confirm the selection with "OK".

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5. Modify the external form of the object "Process value archive tag", if necessary, by changing
the attribute values in the Properties tag.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.
The following table shows all the attributes that can be returned. The functions of the attributes
are briefly described.
Attributes

Description

Archiving at system start

Returns the starting type of the archive tag.

Archiving type

Archiving type: acyclic, cyclic-continuous or cyclic-selective

archiving.

Process tag name

Names of the corresponding WinCC tags.

Tag supply

Returns the assignment type of the tag. Specifies whether the tag
is supplied with data manually, or through the system.

Also put archived value in tag

Outputs the WinCC tag in which an archived value is additionally

written.

Cycle

Time cycle used for archiving and data display.

Number of values

Output of values for leader and trailer.

Save on error

Returns the saving behavior in case of errors. Specifies whether,

in case of an error, the last value is saved, or rather a substitute
value.

Events

Events which trigger archiving.

Editing

Returns the processing type. Specifies how data is preprocessed,

e.g., by calculating an average.

Unit

Returns the unit of the specified time value.

Scaling

Returns the scaling type.

Name of statuses

Returns the names of status 0 and status 1.

Archiving on signal change

Returns the behavior which has been specified for a signal change.

Comment

Comments regarding archive tags.

Raw data tags

Name or ID of the raw data tags.

Selection of Compressed Archive Tag Data

1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Compressed archive tag". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Tag data".
2. Double-click the "Tag data" entry. The Tag Logging CS: Tag Data Selection dialog is
opened.

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3. Choose the configuration data you want to appear in the output. For attribute descriptions,
please refer to the table above.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
5. Modify the external form of the object "Compressed archive tag", if necessary, by changing
the attribute values in the Properties tag.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

See also
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.12 How to Change the Output Options for the Language Selection from the Text Library
Introduction
The object type "Text Library text table" allows you to insert text from the WinCC text library
in the dynamic part of a page layout. The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object
tree, in the "Project documentation" tab under "Text Library". Select the languages for which
text is to be returned in a table in the "Language selection" dialog.

Requirements
User texts must be configured in the Text Library.
The object "Text Library text table" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
Of all the objects for the Text Library project documentation, the object "Text Library text table"
is the only one that provides the option to select your output data.
For further information, please see the chapter "Project documentation in the Text Library".

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Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Text Library text table".
The list of editing options will then show the item "Language selection".
2. Double-click the "Language selection" entry. This will open the dialog "Text Library
language selection".

If the "All" checkbox is checked, all configured languages will be returned. An existing
selection in this dialog will be preserved.
3. Choose the desired items from the list of designed languages and add them individually or
in groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected languages.
4. Using the "Up" and "Down" buttons, specify the output sequence of the tags.
5. Use the option buttons to specify whether the different languages should appear in the
output separately, or arranged horizontally or vertically.
6. Confirm the selection with "OK".
7. Modify the external form of the object "Text Library text table", if necessary, by changing
the attribute values in the Properties tag.
8. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

Specify a table format

The layout of the report is specified using the table format option buttons. You can view the
effect of your settings in the preview window. The following table formats are available:
If you choose "Separate", each language will be returned in its own table in the report.
If you choose "Horizontal", the text in the selected languages that belongs to one text ID
will be returned in one row. With long text or several designed languages, this may well
exceed the width of the row.
If you choose "Vertical", the text in the selected languages that belongs to one text ID will
be returned in separate rows.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

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8.5.10.13 How to Change the Output Options for the Tag Table of WinCC Explorer
Introduction
The object "Tags" allows you to return the tags from WinCC Tag Management in a report. The
object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree, in the "Project documentation" tab under
"WinCC Explorer".

Requirements
The Tag Management contains some tags.
The object "Tags" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
For the object "Tags", you can select the tags, the tag groups and tag parameters. For the Tag
data type, you can also select the output format.
For an overview of available objects for the product documentation of the WinCC Explorer and
their output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in the WinCC Explorer".

Selection of Tag Parameters

1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Tags". The list of
editing options will then show the item "Selection of tag parameters".
2. Double-click on the entry "Tag parameters". The WinCC Explorer: Selecting Connections
dialog is opened.

If the "Compact" checkbox is activated, all parameters of a tag will be returned in one row.
Else, each parameter will be returned in its own row. If, with output in "Compact" form, the
lines are too long for the rows, the rest will be cut off.
3. Activate the check boxes for the output parameters you want to use.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
The following table shows all the tag parameters that can be returned. The functions of the
parameters are briefly described.
Parameters

Description

Data type

Returns the data type of a tag.

Group

Includes the allocation to a tag group in the output.

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Parameters

Description

Parameters

Returns the address parameters of a tag.

External tag data

Returns information about the external linkage of a tag (e.g., connection,

channel unit, channel).

Limit values

Returns the designed limit values of a tag.

Start value

Returns a designed start value of a tag.

Substitute value

Returns a designed substitute value of a tag.

Protocol entry

Returns information about the type of a configured log entry.

Selection of Tag Groups

1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Tags". The list of editing options will
then show the item "Selection of tag groups".
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection of tag groups". The WinCC Explorer: Select Tag
Groups dialog is opened.

3. Select the desired items from the list of available tag groups and add them individually or
in groups to the list of selected tag groups, using the dialog buttons.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".

Selection of Tags
1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Tags". The list of editing options will
then show the item "Selection of tags".
2. Double-click the entry "Selection of tags". The WinCC Explorer: Select Tags dialog is
opened.

If the "All tags" checkbox is active, all available tags will be returned. An existing selection
in this dialog will be preserved.
3. To be able to select specific tags, deactivate the checkbox "All tags". This will enable the
"Select" button.
4. Click on the "Select" button to open the WinCC tag selection dialog.
5. Select the desired tags individually or in groups. Confirm the selection with "OK". The
selected tags will be added to the selection dialog.
6. Confirm the selection with "OK".

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Formatting the Tag List

1. In the "Object Properties" window, select the entry "Tags". The list of editing options will
then show the item "Format".
2. Double-click the "Format" entry. The WinCC Explorer: Format Tag List dialog is opened.

If the check box is active, the data type of the tag is returned in short form.
Long formats: Unsigned 32 bit value; floating point number 64 bit IEEE 754
Short formats: 32 bit value, without sign; 64 bit IEEE 754
3. Select the output form you want.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
5. Modify the external form of the object "Tags", if necessary, by changing the attribute values
in the Properties tag.
6. Confirm the selection with "OK".
7. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.14 How to Change the Output Options for the Selection of Connection List
Introduction
The object "Connections" allows you to output the configured connections via WinCC
communication drivers in a report. The object is located in the Page Layout Editor object tree,
in the "Project documentation" tab under "WinCC Explorer".

Requirements
A connection via a WinCC communication driver has been configured.
The object "Connections" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Link tab is active.
You are familiar with the Link tab.

Edit Options
For the object "Connections", you can select the connections.

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For an overview of available objects for the product documentation of the WinCC Explorer and
their output options, please refer to the chapter "Project documentation in the WinCC Explorer".

Procedure
1. Open the branching node on the left of the Link tab. Select the entry "Connections". The
list of editing options will then show the item "Selection of connection list".
2. Double-click on the entry "Selection of connection list". The WinCC Explorer: Select
Connections dialog is opened.

If the "All connections" checkbox is active, all available connections will be returned. An
existing selection in this dialog will be preserved.
3. Select the desired items from the list of available connections and add them individually or
in groups, using the dialog buttons, to the list of selected connections.
4. Confirm the selection with "OK".
5. Modify the external form of the object "Connections", if necessary, by changing the attribute
values in the Properties tag.
6. Close the "Object Properties" window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
The Link tab in the Object Properties Window (Page1575)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.15 How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Texts
Introduction
Some of the objects in the object tree Project Documentation are of the type Dynamic Text
and do not offer an option to select data for output. These objects are firmly linked to the WinCC
applications and provide the designated configuration data as text for output in a report.
Objects of the dynamic text type are marked in the object tree with the symbol

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The external form of the objects can be influenced by changing their attributes. The procedure
is the same for all objects of this type. You can call up direct help for each attribute by rightclicking it in the Attribute column.

Requirements
The relevant object of the type Dynamic Text has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Properties tab is active.

Procedure
1. On the left of the Properties tab, select the object from the directory tree and open the
branching node. The property groups of the object are shown in a directory tree.
2. Select a property group. The attribute of this group are shown in the area on the right.
3. Choose an attribute and double-click it. This will open a dialog which allows you to edit the
attribute properties.
4. Specify the settings you want and confirm your entries with OK.
5. Close the Object Properties window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Tables without Data Selection
(Page1695)
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Metafiles (Page1693)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.5.10.16 How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Metafiles
Introduction
Some of the objects in the object tree "Project documentation" are of the type "Dynamic
metafile" and do not offer an option to select data for output. These objects are firmly linked
to the WinCC applications and provide the designated configuration data as an image for output
in a report.

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Objects of the dynamic metafile type are marked in the object tree with the symbol

The external form of the objects can be influenced by changing their attributes. The procedure
is the same for all objects of this type. You can call up direct help for each attribute by rightclicking on it in the "Attribute" column.

Requirements
The relevant object of the type "Dynamic metafile" has been inserted in the layout, and
selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Properties tab is active.

Procedure
1. On the left of the Properties tab, select the object from the directory tree and open the
branching node. The property groups of the object are shown in a directory tree.
2. Select a property group. The attribute of this group are shown in the area on the right.
3. Choose an attribute and double-click it. This will open a dialog which allows you to edit the
attribute properties.
4. Specify the settings you want and confirm your entries with "OK".
5. Close the Object Properties window and save the layout.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Tables without Data Selection
(Page1695)
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Texts (Page1692)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

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8.5.10.17 How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Tables without Data Selection
Introduction
Some of the objects in the object tree "Project documentation" are of the type "Dynamic table"
and do not offer an option to select data for output. These objects are firmly linked to the WinCC
applications and provide the designated configuration data as a table for output in a report.
These dynamic tables do not offer any editing options in the "Link" tab of the "Object Properties"
dialog.
Objects of the dynamic table type are marked in the object tree with the symbol

The external form of the objects can be influenced by changing their attributes. The procedure
is the same for all objects of this type. You can call up direct help for each attribute by rightclicking on it in the "Attribute" column.

Requirements
The relevant object of the type "Dynamic table" has been inserted in the layout, and selected.
The Object Properties window is open, and the Properties tab is active.

Procedure
1. On the left of the Properties tab, select the object from the directory tree and open the
branching node. The property groups of the object are shown in a directory tree.
2. Select a property group. The attribute of this group are shown in the area on the right.
3. Choose an attribute and double-click it. This will open a dialog which allows you to edit the
attribute properties.
4. Specify the settings you want and confirm your entries with "OK".
5. Close the Object Properties window and save the layout.

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See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Metafiles (Page1693)
How to Change the Output Options for the Dynamic Texts (Page1692)
How to Transfer Object Properties (Page1577)
How to Change an Attribute (Page1576)
The Properties of an Object (Page1570)
Working with Objects for the Project Documentation (Page1666)

8.6

Appendix

8.6.1

Requests to a CSV File for Reporting

Introduction
To permit the data from a CSV file to be output in a WinCC log, the data must correspond to
a set structure. The data in a CSV file are prepared by the user. You will find more information
in chapter Outputting Data from a CSV Table and Example of Reporting CSV Files.

Requirements for CSV File to be Output in Tabular Form

Each section must begin with the name of the corresponding file structure, followed by one or
more lines containing the elements of the file structure. The following file structures are defined:

File Structure for Output in Tabular Form

The table, columns, and data must be defined as follows:
#Table; Name; Columns; Font; Font size
- Name = name of the table control or file
- Columns = number of columns
- Font = font of the table
- Font size = font size of the table

#Column; Num; Header; Width; Alignment

- Num = number of the column
- Header = header of the column
- Width = width of the column in characters
- Alignment = left aligned/centered/right aligned

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#Data; Color; Col1; Col2; Col3; Col4; ...

- Color = color attribute of the line (0xbbggrr)
- Col1 = data of column 1
- Col2 = data of column 2
- etc.

Points to Note About the Data in the CSV File

The control characters for colors, alignment, etc. are always at the beginning of the output text
and can be combined with each other (e.g. output text). No distinction is drawn between upper
and lower case.
The Width parameter indicates the relative width of the columns. The effective width of the
column in the table is calculated as follows:
[ Table width as a number of characters ] x [ relative width of the column in % ] / [ sum of all
relative widths of the column ]
The line defined for tables in the CSV file contains one more column than the data lines. If a
spreadsheet program such as Excel is used to edit the data, the columns for the headings and
the data will no longer match up. To prevent this from happening, you can enter a semicolon
(;) as the first character in the data lines of the CSV file. The data blocks of the CSV file may
not contain blanks. When you open the CSV in Excel, the data columns are shifted one column
to the right. The columns for the headings and data will then match up. If the first column does
not contain anything, you have to insert a blank (;blank;first data value;...).

Control Characters for Table Output

<END>

If the interpretation of control sequences is done, the rest of the

text will be transferred as it is given.
<COLOR=#rrggbb>
Font color in hexadecimal notation (default = as set for the table)
<BGCOLOR=#rrggbb> Background color in hexadecimal notation (default = as set for the
table)
<B>
Bold
<U>
Underlined
<I>
Italic
<STRIKE>
Strike-through
<ALIGN=left>
Left aligned
<ALIGN=center>
Centered
<ALIGN=right>
Right aligned

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Note
The definition of the color attribute Color complies with the byte format. The notation is
0xbbggrr (hex blue blue green green red red). The control characters for formatting the table
cells comply with the HTML standard. The notation for is #rrggbb.

Each section must begin with the name of the corresponding file structure, followed by one or
more lines containing the elements of the file structure. The following file structures are defined:

File Structure for Output in the Form of a Trend f(t)

#Trend_T; Name; Curves; DateFrom; DateTo; Common Y-Axis; Font; Fontsize
- Name = name of the trend control or file
- Curves = number of trends
- DateFrom = start of time range, notation: 2000-10-30 10:15:00.000
Number of digits: year(4); month(2); day(2); hours(2); minutes(2); seconds(2); milliseconds(3).
- DateTo = end of time range, notation: 2000-10-30 10:15:00.000
Number of digits: year(4); month(2); day(2); hours(2); minutes(2); seconds(2); milliseconds(3).
- Common Y-Axis = common y-axis
- Font = font
- Fontsize = font size

#Curve; Num; Name; Count; dMin; dMax; Color; Weight; CurveType; Filling
- Num = number of the trend
- Name = trend name
- Count = number of values
- dMin = lower limit of the trend (for scaling)
- dMax = upper limit of the trend (for scaling)
- Color = color attribute of the trend (0xbbggrr)
- Weight = line weight in points (e.g. 1.5)
- CurveType = trend type ( LINE, DOTS, STEP)
- Filling = filling color for areas ( 0=no, 1=yes). The Filling parameter is currently not evaluated.

#Data; Num; Date; Value; Flags; Color

- Num = number of the trend
- Date = X coordinate of the trend, notation: 2000-10-30 10:15:00.000
Number of digits: year(4); month(2); day(2); hours(2); minutes(2); seconds(2); milliseconds(3).

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- Value = y coordinate of the trend
- Flags = limit values/time overlap etc.
- Color (if an empty string is specified here, the color is taken from #Curve ...".)

8.6.2

Filter Criteria for the Alarm Output

Introduction
The filter criteria for alarm output are transferred with the transfer of the selection criteria from
the selection dialog in the "Filter criteria for alarm output" area. The filter criteria can be edited.

The following conditions apply to WinCC:

The structure consists of the elements Field, Operand and Value, with the individual
parameters separated by blanks.
Example: DATETIME >= 2000-12-21 00:00:00' AND MSGNR >= 100 (all messages since
12.20.2000 with message number greater than 100)
Strings, date, and time must be passed in single quotation marks.
In the DATETIME argument, the date and time of day are separated by a blank. Regardless
of the time base setting in the object properties, the output of DATETIME is based on the
time base Local Time. Exception: UTC is set as the time base: in this case, the output is
based on time base UTC.

Permissible Arguments:
Name

Type

data

Example:

DATETIME

Date

'YYYY-MM-DD
hh:mm:ss.msmsms'

DATETIME >= '1999-05-03

16:00:00'
Output of message from
05.03.1999
16:00 hours.

MSGNR

Integer

Message number

MSGNR >= 10 AND MSGNR <=

12
Output of messages with
message number 10 -12.

CLASS
IN
AND
TYPE IN

Integer

Message class ID
1-16
and
message type ID 1-256

CLASS IN ( 1 ) AND TYPE IN

( 2 )
Output of messages of message class
1
message type 2.

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Name

Type

data

Example:

STATE

Integer

Value of
ALARM_STATE_xx
Only operands
= and IN(...) are
permitted

ALARM_STATE_1
ALARM_STATE_2
ALARM_STATE_3
ALARM_STATE_4
ALARM_STATE_5
ALARM_STATE_6
ALARM_STATE_7
ALARM_STATE_16
ALARM_STATE_17

STATE IN(1,2,3)
Output of all message that came in,
went out and were
acknowledged.

Possible values:
1 = Came In messages
2 = Went Out messages
3 = acknowledged messages
4 = locked message
5 = released messages
6 = messages that came in and have
been acknowledged
7 = messages that came in and went
out
16 = messages acknowledged by the
system
17 = emergency-acknowledged
messages

AGNR

Integer

PLC number

AGNR >= 2 AND AGNR <= 2

Output of messages with
AG number = 2.

AGSUBNR

Integer

AG subnumber

AGSUBNR >= 5 AND

AGSUBNR
<= 5
Output of messages with
AG subnumber = 5.

TEXTxx

Text

Search text for

'Text1'-'Text10'

TEXT2 = error
Output of messages with
Text2 = "error".

PVALUExx

Double or text Search text for

PVALUE1-
PVALUE10

PVALUE1 >= 0 AND PVALUE1 <=

50
Output of process value 1 with
start value 0 and stop value 50.

The following operands are permissible:

>= , <= , = , > , < ,IN(...),LIKE
IN(...): several values in Array separated by commas, e.g. CLASS IN( 1 ,2 ,3 ) AND TYPE
IN( 1 ,2 ,19 ,20 ,37 ,38 )
LIKE: Text must contain string, e.g.: TEXT1 LIKE 'Error' relays message where Text1 contains
the search text Error.
The operand LIKE is only permissible for TEXT arguments.
Arguments and operands other than those mentioned above are not permissible.

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9

Resources

9.1

Creating Line Layouts

Content
The line layout editor is an editor provided by WinCC that allows you to create and dynamize
line layouts for the output of a message sequence report. As part of WinCC, it can only be
used to edit line layouts belonging to the project that is open in WinCC.
This section shows you
How to use the line layout editor
How to create and edit line layouts
How to design a line layout

9.2

How to Start the Line Layout Editor

Introduction
In accordance with Windows conventions, there are various ways of opening the line layout
editor. The line layout editor can only be opened for the current project that is open in WinCC
Explorer.

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9.2 How to Start the Line Layout Editor

Requirement
A project must be open in WinCC Explorer.

Opening the Line Layout Editor

The line layout editor is always called in WinCC Explorer.

The following options are available:

Navigation window/data window of WinCC Explorer:

Select the Report Designer entry. The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" subentries are displayed.
In the navigation or data window of WinCC Explorer, select "Layouts" and choose the "Open
Line Layout Editor" command from the pop-up menu.
The line layout editor is started, and a new layout is opened.

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WinCC Explorer data window:

Select the Report Designer entry. The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" subentries are displayed.
In the navigation window, select "Layouts". The available layouts are displayed in the data
window. Double-click a line layout or choose "Open Line Layout" from the pop-up menu.
The line layout editor is started, and the selected line layout is opened.

See also
The Line Layout Editor (Page1703)

9.3

The Line Layout Editor

9.3.1

The Line Layout Editor

Introduction
The line layout editor is used only to create and edit line layouts for a message sequence
report. Each line layout contains a dynamic table that is connected to the WinCC message
system. Additional objects cannot be added to a line layout. Text can be entered in the header
and footer. Start the line layout editor in WinCC Explorer.

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9.3 The Line Layout Editor

Layout of the Line Layout Editor

The line layout editor has a toolbar, menu bar, status bar, and various different areas for editing
a line layout. When opened, the line layout editor appears with the default settings.

(1) The Menu Bar

The menu bar is always visible. Depending on the context, the functions in the menus are
active or inactive.

(2) The Toolbar

The toolbar is always visible in the line layout editor. There are different buttons on the toolbar
that allow you to activate the functions of the menu commands quickly. The buttons are either
active or inactive, depending on the situation.

(3) The Header Area

The Header area allows you to enter text in order to create the header of a line layout.

(4) The Table Area

The design of the table for output is displayed in the Table area. The configured column
headings and the width of the columns (number of characters per column) are displayed. The
table can be configured for output using the buttons in this area.

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9.3 The Line Layout Editor

(5) The Footer Area

The Footer Area is used to enter text in order to create the footer of a line layout.

(6) The Page Size Area

The Page Size area is used to set the number of lines and columns for a line layout.

(7) The Margins Area

The Margins area is used to set the margins for the output of a line layout.

(8) The Status Bar

You will find the status bar along the lower edge of the screen. It contains tips on the buttons
on the toolbar, on menu commands, and on keyboard settings, for example.

See also
The Table Area (Page1708)
The Header and Footer Areas (Page1707)
The Page Size and Margins Areas (Page1706)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1705)

9.3.2

The Standard Toolbar

Usage
The toolbar is located under the menu bar along the top of the line layout editor. The buttons
arranged on the toolbar enable you to access the functionality of the line layout editor quickly
and easily.

Contents
The standard toolbar contains buttons with the following functions:
Button

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Function

Key combination

Creates a new line layout.

<CTRL+N>

Opens an existing line layout.

<CTRL+O>

Stores the active line layout.

<CTRL+S>

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9.3 The Line Layout Editor
Button

Function

Key combination

Cuts the selected text from the header or footer and copies it to
<CTRL+X>
the clipboard. The function is only available when a text is selected.
Copies the selected text from the header or footer to the clipboard.
The function is only available when a text is selected.

<CTRL+C>

Pastes the contents of the clipboard at the location of the cursor.

The function is only available if there is a text on the clipboard.

<CTRL+V>

The "Print" function is deactivated in the line layout editor.

Activates the direct help (What's this?).

<SHIFT+F1>

Characteristics
The toolbar in the line layout editor is always activated. You cannot hide it.

See also
The Page Size and Margins Areas (Page1706)
Working with the Line Layout Editor (Page1710)
The Table Area (Page1708)
The Header and Footer Areas (Page1707)

9.3.3

The Page Size and Margins Areas

Introduction
Line-by-line printing is used in practice for current and synchronous documentation. WinCC
allows for "line-by-line printing" on appropriate printers. The output to the printer is only possible
via a local, parallel interface on the computer. You can set the page size and margins for each
line layout within the permissible limits.

Page Size in the Line Layout

The page size of a line layout can be set within the following limits:
The number of lines can be between 1 and 400.
The number of columns can be between 20 and 400.
The value for the number of columns is defined as the number of characters per line.

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9.3 The Line Layout Editor

Margins in the Line Layout

Because most printers cannot print right up to the edge of the page, the margins must be set
accordingly in the line layout. The margins of a line layout can be set within the following limits:
The value for the margins (left, right, top, bottom) can be between 0 and 30 characters.

Printer Settings
The number of columns set in a line layout under "Page Size" (= characters per line) must be
supported by the printer used. If the number of columns is greater than the number of
characters a printer can print per line, a line break is inserted. This overflow of the column text
into a new line disturbs the column formatting. To remedy this, a narrower font or a smaller
character width must be set for the printer.
Setting the font or character width depends on the printer used. Please check the printer
manual for further information.
Note
If the suitable font is not set as the default font on the printer, it will have to be set again each
time the printer is reset or switched off and on again.

See also
Working with the Line Layout Editor (Page1710)
The Table Area (Page1708)
The Header and Footer Areas (Page1707)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1705)
How to Set the Page Size (Page1710)

9.3.4

The Header and Footer Areas

Introduction
You can define a different header and footer for each line layout. The number of headers and
footers can be between 0 and 10. You can enter any text you like in them. You can output as
many headers as the number of lines you have set. You do not have to output the header and
footer.

Usage
The headers and footers are output with each page of the message sequence report. The
width of the headers and footers is based on the number of columns (= characters per line)
set under "Page Size". Text in the header or footer that is longer than the configured number
of columns is truncated at output.

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9.3 The Line Layout Editor

See also
Working with the Line Layout Editor (Page1710)
The Table Area (Page1708)
The Header and Footer Areas (Page1707)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1705)
How to Create Headers and Footers (Page1711)

9.3.5

The Table Area

Introduction
You can define a table for the output of reports and measured values for each line layout. The
number and contents of the columns are defined using the "Selection..." button. The number
of columns can be between 1 and 40 and depends on the number of selected message blocks.

Usage
The configured columns with the associated headings and the set column width are displayed
in the Table area. You can configure the column heading and the column width for each column
separately.
Use the "Selection..." button to open the "Alarm Logging Runtime: Report - Table Column
Selection" dialog. In this dialog, you can select the server(s) whose reports you want to log.
You can assign the message blocks to the table columns and set the filter criteria for the alarm
output. These changes are only effective for the output of the message sequence report and
are not written back to the alarm logging. You can find additional information in the sections
"Outputting Runtime Data with the Message Sequence Report" and "Changing Output Options
for the Message Sequence Report".

See also
The Time Range (Page1709)
Working with the Line Layout Editor (Page1710)
The Table Area (Page1708)
The Header and Footer Areas (Page1707)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1705)
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report (Page1713)

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9.3 The Line Layout Editor

9.3.6

The Time Range

Introduction
By changing the base for the time settings you can convert the time specified in the time stamp
of the report data to a different time base. The time settings are only converted for the output
in the report and are not written back to the alarm logging. If, for example, you want to output
the data of a remote computer in another time zone, you can use this function to ensure that
the data is output with a comparable time. If the two computers in this case were working with
the "Local Time" time base, you would receive reports on the two computers with different
times. The results would not be directly comparable. You can find additional information in the
section "Adjusting the Time Settings in the Project".
If you change the time base for the output, ensure that the time reference is also output in the
report. For example, specify an identifier in the alias for the "Time" message block. You can
find additional information "Changing the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report".

Usage
You can change the time base in the "Table" area. To do this, click the "Time Base..." button.
The "Time Base Entry" dialog appears. Select the time base from the list.

See also
The Header and Footer Areas (Page1707)
The Table Area (Page1708)
Working with the Line Layout Editor (Page1710)
The Standard Toolbar (Page1705)
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report (Page1713)

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9.4 Working with the Line Layout Editor

9.4

Working with the Line Layout Editor

9.4.1

Working with the Line Layout Editor

Introduction
The line layout editor is only used to create and change line layouts for the message sequence
report. It therefore has a very simple layout and is easy to use. This section describes how
you can do the following:
Set the page size of a line layout
Create the header and footer
Create a table in the line layout
Change the output options for the message sequence report

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report (Page1713)
How to Create a Table in the Line Layout (Page1712)
How to Create Headers and Footers (Page1711)
How to Set the Page Size (Page1710)

9.4.2

How to Set the Page Size

Introduction
You can set the page size and margins for each line layout within the permissible limits. You
can set the desired values either by using the controls or by entering them directly in the fields.
The following limits apply to the line layout:
Number of lines

Values between 1 and 400 are permissible.

Number of columns

Values between 20 and 400 are permissible.

Margin width

Values between 0 and 30 are permissible.

Procedure
1. Select an existing line layout in WinCC Explorer or create a new line layout and open it in
the line layout editor.
2. Set the number of lines per page in the "Page Size" area by using the corresponding
controls or by entering a value.

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9.4 Working with the Line Layout Editor
3. Set the number of columns (= characters per line) in the "Page Size" area by using the
corresponding controls or by entering a value.
4. Set the width of the margins for output in the "Margins" area by using the controls or entering
values.
5. Save the changes and close the line layout editor.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report (Page1713)
How to Create a Table in the Line Layout (Page1712)
How to Create Headers and Footers (Page1711)

9.4.3

How to Create Headers and Footers

Introduction
You can create a header and footer for each line layout in the line layout editor. They are then
output with each page. Headers and footers consist of text only and can have a maximum of
10 lines each. You can set the number of lines for headers and footers separately by using
the corresponding controls or by entering values directly. Lines of text that are longer than the
page width set in the "Page Size" area (number of columns =characters per line) are truncated
at output.

Procedure
1. Open the desired line layout in the line layout editor.
2. Set the number of lines in the "Header" area by using the corresponding control or entering
a value.
3. Enter the text for the header in the text box. Note the number of characters per line. Press
the return key to insert a line break.
4. Edit the footer in the same way.
5. Save and close the layout.
If you enter more lines during input than are specified for "Number of Lines", a message to this
effect appears. Only the number of lines set for "Number of Lines" are output. Excess lines
are not output.

See also
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report (Page1713)
How to Create a Table in the Line Layout (Page1712)
How to Set the Page Size (Page1710)

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Creating Line Layouts

9.4 Working with the Line Layout Editor

9.4.4

How to Create a Table in the Line Layout

Introduction
The table object for the output of reports in the message sequence report is a fixed part of the
line layout. The static object properties for this table object are predefined. Click the
"Selection..." button to open the "Alarm Logging Runtime: Report - Table Column Selection"
dialog. In this dialog you can specify the assignment of the message blocks to the columns for
output. You also assign the column headings here and set the width of the individual columns
for output.

Requirements
The desired layout must be open in the line layout editor.
Alarm logging must be configured.

Procedure
1. Click the "Selection..." button to open the "Alarm Logging Runtime: Report Table Column
Selection" dialog.

2. Use the dialog to specify the data for output. You can find additional information in the
section "Changing the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report". When you close
the dialog, the selected columns and their widths are displayed in characters per line in the
"Table" area. If the number of characters per line is too large, a message to this effect
appears.
3. Change the time base for times, if necessary. You will find more information in the section
"Table Area".
4. Save the line layout, and close the editor.

See also
How to Create Headers and Footers (Page1711)
How to Set the Page Size (Page1710)
The Table Area (Page1708)
How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report (Page1713)

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9.4 Working with the Line Layout Editor

9.4.5

How to Change the Output Options for the Message Sequence Report

Introduction
To output a user-specific selection of messages, you can either use a predefined line layout
or create your own line layout. The layout must be called in the "@Report Alarm Logging RT
Message Sequence" print job.
For the output of a message sequence report in a page layout, changes to the output options
must be configured in the page layout editor. You will find more information in the section
"Creating a User-Defined Message Sequence Report".
Note
You cannot output a Message Sequence Report in line layout as a file.

Requirements
The desired layout must be open in the line layout editor.
Message configuration has been carried out in Alarm Logging.

Procedure
1. Click the "Selection" button in the "Table" area. The "Alarm Logging Runtime: Report Table
Column Selection" dialog is opened.
2. Use the dialog to configure the selection of data for output. You will find a description of
the dialog in the section "Data Selection" below.
3. Apply the settings by clicking "OK".
4. Save the line layout, and close the editor.

Data Selection
The "Alarm Logging Runtime: Report Table Column Selection" dialog is used to select the data
to output in the message sequence report. It allows you to select the servers, message blocks,
and filter criteria for alarm output.

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Creating Line Layouts

9.4 Working with the Line Layout Editor

Selecting the Servers

Server selection is only necessary if you:
want to log the messages on a WinCC client,

or
want to log the messages of one server on another server in a distributed system
In the "Selection: Server from the Project Data" area, you can select the servers whose
messages are to be logged. Only those servers whose "packages" have been loaded are
offered. The selected servers are displayed in the window. In the case of a single-user and
multi-user project this selection is not required.

Dynamization of Server Selection by Means of a WinCC Variable

You can dynamize server selection in order to select servers when a project is activated directly
before logging is started. The report system reads the value from the variable at runtime. If the
variable cannot be read, the configured value is used.
1. Select the "Variable" check box. The text box and the folder button are activated.
2. Use the folder button to open the variable selection dialog. Select the desired variable there,
and close the variable selection dialog. Alternatively, enter the variable name directly in the
text box.
Configure value assignment to the WinCC variable. You will find more information in the section
"Types of Dynamization".

Selecting Message Blocks

In the "Assignment: Message Blocks -> Table Columns" area, you can define the message
blocks for output in the report. In the "Message Blocks" area, select the desired message
blocks from the list of existing message blocks. Use the control elements in the dialog to add
the message blocks to the list of the current column sequence of the report either individually
or in groups.

Editing the Properties of the Message Blocks

From the list of the current column sequence of the report you can select individual message
blocks and edit their properties. To do this, select a message block from the current column
sequence of the report and click the "Properties" button. You can now assign an alias to the
block name and change the format for the date and time message blocks. The appearance of
the dialog that opens depends on the type of message block selected. The changes are only
effective for the output of the report and are not written back to the Alarm Logging.
If the "Use Aliases" check box is selected, the configured aliases are output as the column
headings. The aliases cannot be configured for multiple languages. If the check box is cleared,
the names of the message blocks are used as column headings. If the language is changed,
the names stored for the message blocks in the text library are output. By default, the check
box is cleared. If the "Use Aliases" check box is selected and there are no aliases configured,
the names of the message blocks are output.

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9.4 Working with the Line Layout Editor

Setting Filter Criteria for Alarm Output

In the "Filter Criteria for Alarm Output" area you can use the "Selection..." button to display the
dialog for setting criteria for alarm output. Use the check boxes in the dialog to select the
desired selection criteria. When you apply the settings by clicking the "OK" button, the selected
selection criteria are displayed in the "Filter Criteria for Alarm Output" area. The individual
arguments are always ANDed. You will find more information in the section "Filter Criteria for
Alarm Output".
You can also make a selection in the print job by means of the size or time range. Additional
information can be found in the chapter "Print Jobs in WinCC".
Note
In a message sequence report, the messages from the report system are logged as soon as
they arrive. It therefore does not make sense to select the time range for the output.

See also
How to Create a Table in the Line Layout (Page1712)
How to Create Headers and Footers (Page1711)
How to Set the Page Size (Page1710)

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Setting Up Multilingual Projects

10

Resources

10.1

Setting Up Multilingual Projects

10

Contents
WinCC offers the following possibilities:
Different languages can be set for the project interface.
Create projects that run in multiple languages in runtime.
WinCC provides you with the following:
"Text Library" editor
The "Text Library" editor is a a powerful editor for managing and maintaining practically all
the texts in your project.
Text Distributor
The Text Distributor provides all editors with user-friendly export and import options for
translating the configured text records.
This chapter shows you:
How to export texts for translating and import them again with the Text Distributor.
How to manage texts centrally with the "Text Library" editor.
How to configure multilingual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
How to configure multilingual messages in "Alarm Logging" editor.
How to configure reports for multilingual projects.
How to configure multilingual date and time displays.
How to configure changes of language in runtime.

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10.2 Language support in WinCC

10.2

Language support in WinCC

10.2.1

Language support in WinCC

Multilingual Configuration in WinCC

WinCC enables you to configure your projects in multiple languages. For this purpose WinCC
supports the multilingual configuration of almost all objects containing text that is visible in
runtime.
In addition to direct text entry, WinCC provides you with user-friendly export and import options
for translating your configuration with the Text Distributor. This is especially advantageous if
you are configuring large projects with a high text content.

Supported Languages
In principle WinCC allows you to create projects for every language installed on your operating
system. During installation WinCC also offers you a group of languages in which you can set
up your WinCC configuration interface.
The following languages can be installed with the standard version of WinCC:
German
English
Spanish
Italian
French
Furthermore with the Asian languages version of WinCC you can install the following
languages:
Japanese
Chinese (traditional and simplified)
Korean
English
You can set up the WinCC Configuration interface in the installed languages. In addition, once
a language has been installed all standard texts are available in that language.
If a project should be used on another computer, then WinCC must be installed on the target
computer in the same language as on the source computer. You should always install WinCC
with all available languages.

Standard texts
Standard texts are all texts that already exist in WinCC's installed languages, e.g. default
names of message classes in the "Alarm Logging" editor, WinCC system messages, and the
title bar captions and column titles in WinCC Control.

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10.2 Language support in WinCC

Configuration Scenarios
When configuring in other languages the following scenarios can occur:
You are configuring a project for a language with which you are unfamiliar.
Example:
You are an English speaking project engineer and configuring for an Asiatic market: Display
the project user interface of WinCC in your preferred language.
There are two procedures for configuration:
Configure the project in a language with which you are familiar, export the texts, translate
the texts externally and import the translated texts back into the WinCC project.
You enter all text for your project directly in the language that is intended to be displayed
later in runtime. Direct text entry is recommended only in cases where you have
configured just a small amount of text in your project.
You are configuring a project for a number of languages with which you are unfamiliar.
Example:
You are a French speaking project engineer and configuring a project for a system which
must be operated by Russian, English and German speaking users: Display the project
user interface of WinCC in your preferred language. Configure the project in a language
you are familiar with and export all the text. Distribute the exported files to translators for
each respective language. Following translation, import the translated texts back into your
WinCC project. Configure a change of language facility for the operators as well, so that
they can use it in runtime to select the desired language for the operator interface.

10.2.2

Language expressions in WinCC

Principle of Language Expressions in WinCC

When using WinCC to create multilingual projects, you can set up languages at multiple system
levels. It is therefore helpful to distinguish between these various levels by using clearly defined
language expressions.

Operating System Language

The operating system language (system locals) is the language environment set in the
operating system in which applications such as WinCC run. This setting defines e.g. the used
"Code Page" in character sets.
Note
WinCC-GUI language and operating system language
Set the operating system language corresponding to your WinCC user interface so that the
correct code page is used and all character sets are correctly displayed. Alternatively you
can use an operating system in the corresponding language.
Information about the operating system language and code pages can be found in your
Windows documentation.

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10.2 Language support in WinCC

Operating System User Interface Language

The operating system user interface language is the language in which the GUI of operating
system is displayed. All Windows menus, dialogs and help text are displayed in this language.
During configuration, some system dialog boxes are displayed in WinCC Configuration in the
operating system GUI language, e.g. such as "Open file" and "Save as".
The operating system GUI language can only be switched with multilingual operating systems.

WinCC GUI Language

The WinCC GUI language is the language of the project interface in WinCC Configuration, i.e.
the language in which the WinCC menus, dialog boxes and help are displayed during
configuration. You can set any language as the WinCC GUI language installed during setup.
In the European version you have a choice between German, English, Italian, Spanish, and
French. The WinCC GUI languages available in the Asian version are Japanese, Korean,
Chinese, and English.
The language that you selected for the installation of WinCC is set as the WinCC GUI language
when you first start WinCC. The next time you start WinCC the interface is displayed in the
WinCC GUI language that you set up last.
You set the WinCC GUI language centrally in the WinCC Explorer. Select a language you are
familiar with as the WinCC GUI language for configuration.
Note
WinCC-GUI language and operating system GUI language
If the current WinCC GUI language is not the same as the operating system GUI language,
the standard dialog elements of certain WinCC editors remain unchanged and continue to
be displayed in the operating system GUI language. This applies to standard buttons such
as "Cancel", and standard system dialogs such as "Save as", "Open file" or "Print".
In order to display these elements in the desired language, you need to set the operating
system GUI to the same language as you are using for the WinCC GUI language.

Project language
The project language is the language to be used for the project you are creating. You can
create a project containing multiple project languages in order to make several languages
available in runtime.
Note
Operating system languages as configuration languages
In addition to the languages installed with WinCC you can select any other language
supported by your operating system as the project language.
With regard to operating system languages, WinCC supports only the primary languages, for
example English (USA) but not English (GB), or traditional Chinese (Taiwan) but not simplified
China (Peoples' Republic).

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10.2 Language support in WinCC
In each case set up the project language directly in the editor you are using for configuration,
e.g. in the "Alarm Logging" editor or the "Graphics Designer" editor. After switching the
configuration language, the user interface remains the same in WinCC Configuration. Only the
language of the texts which you create for your project is switched. The current project
language is displayed in the status bar of the respective editor.
The following figure shows a section from the "Graphics Designer" editor with English as
configuration language and WinCC with a German user interface:

Runtime Language
The Runtime language is the language in which the project is displayed in Runtime. You may
set a Runtime language in WinCC in which the project will start in Runtime.
When creating a project containing multiple languages, configure operating elements which
will allow the operator to change the runtime language.

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Setting Up Multilingual Projects

10.2 Language support in WinCC
Note
Runtime language
Always select one of your configuration languages, or the Runtime standard language, as
the Runtime language.

Runtime Default Language

In the computer properties in WinCC Explorer, a Runtime default language may be set which
applies to graphics objects.
If, for a specific text, there is no translation available into the current runtime language, the text
is shown in the configured runtime default language. If the text is not available in this language
"???" is displayed.

Default Runtime Language for Objects

The default runtime language is English. The default Runtime language is the language used
for texts of a WinCC object, such as AlarmControl or TableControl, if no translation of the
respective Runtime language is available. In the main this affects the title bar captions and
column titles in WinCC Control if the runtime language is not one of the languages installed
with WinCC. In the languages installed with WinCC the controls are displayed correctly. This
does not apply to texts and their translations stored in the Text Library.

10.2.3

Configuring Multiple Languages

Operating system requirements

When configuring projects for multiple languages, your operating system must meet the
following requirements:
The project languages must be installed
The correct system regional setting (operating system language) must be specified as
default on your operating system.
This is particularly important if you are configuring for languages which are not Western
European, e.g. Asian.
Any special fonts that you use must be available on your operating system. This applies
particularly to non-Latin fonts used for example in Cyrillic or Asian languages.
You must install input methods on your operating system to input e.g. Asian fonts.
For each running application, select the input methods independently of one another.
Note
How to make the corresponding settings or installation in your operating system is
described in your Windows documentation.

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10.2 Language support in WinCC

Language combinations
Due to the various language setting options in WinCC and your operating system, a number
of different language combinations can occur, for example:
Configure a single-language project in the language preferred:
Operating system language, operating system user interface language, WinCC user
interface language and configuration language are all the same.
Configure a single-language project in but not in your preferred language:
Operating system GUI language and WinCC GUI language are your preferred language.
The project language is the language in which you subsequently display the project in
runtime.
If you configure for Asian languages, define the operating system language so that the
character set to be used is displayed in the respective code page.
If all languages are from one regional area (e.g. Western European), this setting is not
necessary because it was already made implicitly.
You are configuring a multilingual project. One of the languages is your preferred language:
Operating system GUI language and WinCC GUI language are your preferred language.
The project languages are the languages in which you subsequently display the project in
runtime. Configure the project in your preferred language and hand over the text for
translation when the project is complete.
Several project engineers who prefer different languages and configure on one computer:
A neutral language, e.g. English, is selected as the operating system GUI language. Each
configuration engineer can set the WinCC GUI language to his preferred language. The
languages that will subsequently be displayed in runtime are set as the project languages.
If you configure for Asian languages, define the operating system language so that the
character set to be used is displayed in the respective code page.
If all languages are from one regional area (e.g. Western European), this setting is not
necessary because it was already made implicitly.
Note
If you are using a multilingual operating system, the configuration engineer can also set
the operating system GUI language to his preferred language.

Configuring for multiple languages - main editors

When configuring for multiple languages use the following editors:
Text Distributor:
The text distributor is a comfortable tool for exporting language-dependent text of the
WinCC project. The exported data is translated in an external program. You then import
the texts again following translation.
Text library:
All project texts are managed centrally in the "Text Library" editor except for texts from
"Graphics Designer" editor. The fonts are defined centrally and language-specific in the
"Text Library" editor. Export the text with the text distributor for the translation. As an
alternative, you can translate the text directly in the "Text Library" editor or the respective
editor.

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Graphics Designer:
Configure the pictures for the project in the "Graphics Designer" editor. Pictures can contain
different text elements, such as Static Text, Tooltips or Labels for ActiveX Controls. The
test is saved in the respective picture. You export the text with the text distributor for the
translation or you enter the translated text directly.
Alarm Logging:
The "Alarm Logging" editor is used to configure messages that are issued in runtime. The
texts for the message system are managed centrally in the text library.
To translate the text, you have the following possibilities:
Export the text for translation with the text distributor
Translation in the "Text Library" editor
Translation in the "Alarm Logging" editor
If there is a large number of message text records, it is to your advantage to export them.
Configuring with SIMATIC STEP7: Alarm logging texts from the SIMATIC Manager are
stored in the text library when transferred and must be translated there.
Report Designer:
The following is configured in the "Report Designer" editor:
Language-dependent layouts for reports to be output in runtime
Language-dependent layouts for the project documentation of your project
User Administrator:
The authorizations that you configure in the User Administrator are language-dependent.
These text records are managed centrally in the "Text Library" editor.
You export these text records with the text distributor or you translate them in the "Text
Library" editor.
The User Administrator supports the languages which can be defined for the user interface.
In order that the texts are created in the project text library, you must open the User
Administrator in the respective language.

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User Archive (optional):
All the texts in the user archives are managed centrally in the "Text Library" editor. You
export these text records with the text distributor or you translate them in the "Text Library"
editor.
Picture Tree Manager (optional):
Texts (e.g. container names) from this WinCC add-on are managed centrally in the text
library. You export these text records with the text distributor or you translate them in the
"Text Library" editor.
Note
The project language can be set up separately for the "Graphics Designer" editor and the
"Alarm Logging" editor. By default the editors start with the set runtime language as the
project language.
WinCC elements such as archive names, tag names and script functions are unique and
cannot be configured for multiple languages.
Do not use any national special characters or Asian fonts in language-dependent WinCC
elements. These characters are illegible or prevent WinCC from working properly after
switching languages.
Exception:
You can also use non-ASCII characters, e.g. Asian characters, in tag names.

Non-translated texts
Non-translated texts are displayed differently in Runtime. For more information, refer to
"Language expressions in WinCC (Page1719)".

10.2.4

How to Create a Multilingual Project

Introduction
The following section gives you an overview of the steps you need to take in order to configure
multilingual projects. The optimal procedure is described in this chapter. Alternative procedures
are described in the respective segments of this help.

The Procedure in Principle

1. Install all required fonts and input methods on your operating system.
If you are configuring in non-Latin fonts, the relevant fonts must be available as Small Fonts.
2. Activate the languages to be configured in your operating system.
Your Windows documentation will tell you exactly how to do this.
3. Install WinCC complete with all the languages that need to be available as WinCC GUI
languages.
If you install languages at a later point in time, the default text for these languages is not
automatically put into the Text Library.

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4. When you create a new project, the WinCC GUI language is the language you selected for
the installation of WinCC. When launched again, WinCC opens in the WinCC GUI language
last set.
If you use a language that is not provided with WinCC as the configuration language:
Make sure that the default text records of these languages do not exist as translations
in WinCC. In this case, the default text records are entered in the current WinCC GUI
language in the Text Library. You can translate these texts later or directly enter the
language in the "Text Library" editor before changing to the project language.
5. Configure your project in a language with which you are familiar. This project language later
serves as a basis for translation of the texts.
6. Export the text records with the Text Distributor.
You then have several files to translate.
7. Translate the texts in an external editor.
8. Re-import the translated texts.
9. Test your translated project in runtime.
Note
Creating the WinCC languages when copying a project
If you copy your project to another computer, all WinCC languages must be installed in
the project's Text Library of the target computer. If necessary, you may have to install the
missing languages in the project's "Text Library" editor and may have to configure the
language entries for these languages.

10.2.5

How to Switch the Language of the Operating System

Introduction
Windows makes all languages and fonts available. You install languages when you install
Windows. If you activate a language that is not actually installed, you are prompted to install
it from the Windows CD. Activate the necessary fonts in your operating system as follows.

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Activating fonts in the operating system

Windows XP
In "Start > Settings > Control Panel > Regional and Language Options", on the "Language"
tab click the "Details" button. In the dialog which then appears use the "Add" button and
add the necessary input locales and keyboard layouts. On this tab you can also define a
hot key sequence so that you can change the input language. For example if you are
creating an Asian-language project in an English operating system, you can use a keyboard
shortcut to change the input language if you are switching to another Windows application.

Windows Vista
In "Start > Control Panel > Time, Language and Region > Regional and Language Options",
on the "Keyboard" tab click the "Change keyboards" button. In the "Text services and input
languages" dialog that appears, add the required input language and keyboard layout on
the "General" tab. On the "Advanced key settings" tab, you can also define a hot key
sequence so that you can change the input language. For example if you are creating an
Asian-language project in an English operating system, you can use a keyboard shortcut
to change the input language if you are switching to another Windows application.
Note
If you work with the "Chinese (simplified)" operating system and you want to set English
language support in the WinCC Explorer, you need to set "English" for menus and dialogs:
For Windows XP under "Start > Settings > Control Panel > Regional and Language
Options" in the"Languages" tab.
For Windows Vista under "Start > Control Panel > Regional and Language Options" in
the "Keyboards and Languages" tab in "Display Language."
This will correctly display the fonts in the dialogs and menus.

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10.2 Language support in WinCC

10.2.6

How to Change Languages in WinCC

Requirements
When setting up languages in WinCC, observe the following requirements:
If you are configuring with non-Latin fonts, the necessary fonts and input methods must be
installed in your operating system.
All configuration languages you wish to use must be installed in your operating system.
If you are configuring Asian languages, the proper system input locale (operating system
language) must be set to change the WinCC GUI language in the operating system control
panel so that the used character sets are displayed in the right code page.
If all languages are from one regional area (e.g. Western European), this setting is not
necessary because it was already made.
Note
For information on how to enter the appropriate settings and installation in your operating
system, please refer to your Windows documentation.

Recommendations
In order to configure efficiently, please note the following:
Always configure for one language at a time if possible.
Set the runtime language to be the language to be configured. The editors always start with
the set runtime language as the configuration language.

Changing the WinCC GUI Language

To change the WinCC GUI language, the language must have been installed with WinCC.
To change the WinCC GUI language, select "Tools > Language" in WinCC Explorer. In the
selection window, you will be offered all installed WinCC languages with the exception of the
current WinCC GUI language.
Following the change, the operating elements, menus and dialogs in WinCC Configuration are
changed to the selected language.
Note
Operating system user interface language
If the current WinCC GUI language is not the same as the operating system GUI language,
the standard dialog elements of certain WinCC editors remain unchanged and continue to
be displayed in the operating system language. This applies to standard buttons such as
"Cancel", and standard system dialogs such as "Save as", "Open file" or "Print".
In order to display these elements in the desired language, you need to set the operating
system language to the same language as you are using for the WinCC GUI language.

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Note
Asian languages
If you are configuring for Asian languages and the current WinCC GUI language does not
correspond to the operating system language, a large part of the Asian interface will not be
displayed correctly.

Changing the configuration language in the editors

You can set the configuration language separately for the "Graphics Designer" editor and the
"Alarm Logging" editor.
To change the configuration language, open the editor concerned and select the menu
command "View > Language". In a selection window, you will be offered all available languages
on your system (primary languages only).
Following the change, all configured texts are displayed in the selected configuration language.
If you have not configured the language yet, all texts in the "Graphics Designer" editor will be
displayed as "???", and the "Alarm Logging" editor will not display any texts.
The set configuration language is displayed in the status bar of the editor window.

Setting runtime language and runtime standard language

Set the runtime language and runtime standard language in WinCC during centralized
configuration in the starting configuration of the Runtime computer. For more information, see
topic "How to Set the Runtime Computer Starting Configuration (Page1796).

10.2.7

Fonts in Multilingual Projects

Introduction
In WinCC you can set a custom font for each configured language. The fonts that you wish to
use must be installed in your operating system. You need special fonts if you use project
languages containing non-Latin characters, such as Cyrillic, Greek or Asian character sets.
For further information please refer to "Configuring with Non-Latin Fonts".

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Setting fonts in WinCC

In WinCC you can set fonts in the following places:
In the "Text Library" editor: Here you must at the very least assign an appropriate font to
each non-Latin language.
In the "Graphics Designer" editor: For all objects containing a text display you can set the
font in the Properties dialog of the object concerned, and for certain objects you can also
use the Configuration dialog.
In some input windows non-Latin text is not correctly displayed even though the font was
correctly set. The display is correct in runtime. In such an event you may enter the text in
another editor (e.g. Word) and transfer it to the input field using copy & paste.
Objects containing nonadjustable font:
Tooltips: In order to display tooltips in runtime in a non-Latin font, go to the Control Panel
of your operating system and set the font for tooltips in Display Properties. Note that when
you make this change, the fonts for the tooltips of all the other applications on your Windows
system are also changed.
Window and column headings of ActiveX Controls: If the current runtime language is not a
WinCC language, text is always displayed in the default runtime language (English).
In some text input windows of the "Graphics Designer" editor, you cannot set the font. In
this event select an input dialog in which the font can be set.
Note
If your configuration permits it, set the same language for operating system language,
operating system GUI language, WinCC GUI language and project language.

10.2.8

Prohibited Characters in WinCC

Principle
Depending on the language and the component, only certain characters
A complete overview of all the prohibited characters can be found in the WinCC documentation
under "Prohibited characters".

10.2.9

Configuring with Non-Latin Fonts

Non-Latin Fonts
When configuring your project in languages that use non-Latin fonts, such as Asian or Cyrillic
character sets, you need the corresponding fonts on your operating system and in WinCC.
In your operating system activate the corresponding languages and keyboard layouts as
described under "Switching Operating System Languages".

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To display the Asian characters in Runtime, you absolutely require the Asian version of WinCC.
With the Asian version, in addition to the texts configured by you, WinCC standard texts such
as e.g. the Runtime dialog boxes, system messages are also available in Asian languages.

Notes regarding the Use of Non-Latin Fonts

For the majority of non-Latin fonts you can use the Input Method Editor (IME) in Windows. For
further information on using the IME please refer to your Windows documentation.
WinCC does not support Big Fonts. You always have to provide the system with the respective
fonts as Small Font.
Note
An example of a tool which can be of help in using non-Latin fonts is e.g. the "Kirillica"
software. Further information on Kirillica is available from the Internet.

Special Characteristics of Non-Latin Fonts in WinCC

When entering text in graphic objects there are some input windows in which non-Latin text is
incorrectly displayed even though the font was correctly set. The characters are displayed
correctly in runtime. You can get round this by entering the text in another editor and then using
Copy & Paste to add it to the input field.
Note
Depending on the operating system and language settings, carry out copy & paste actions
may not be executed properly. To solve this problem, set the same input methods in the
source and target application.
With certain objects in WinCC the font either cannot be set or can only be set in special
circumstances. For further information on objects that cannot be changed see "Fonts in
Multilingual Projects".

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10.3 Text export and text import with the Text Distributor

Notes regarding Configuration with Non-Latin Fonts

Always configure a language in a uniform font.
"Alarm Logging" editor
For "Alarm Logging" editor texts, set up the font centrally in the "Text Library" editor. In
the "Alarm Logging" editor, non-Latin characters are incorrectly displayed. The display
is correct in the "Text Library" editor if you have set the correct font for the language.
In the "Graphics Designer" editor you configure the font directly in all the objects that
contain text.
The title and column headings for the following objects are only available in the languages
installed with WinCC and the languages cannot be switched between:
A few WinCC controls
Trend control axes labels
If the current runtime language is not a language installed with WinCC, labels are always
displayed in the default runtime language English.
If you create records in non-Latin fonts:
Basically, language-specific layouts are used. Possible languages for the layouts are those
installed with WinCC.
If a printout is started, the layout of the current runtime language is used. If the current
runtime language is not a language installed with WinCC, the English layout is used.
If you want to generate a printout with a non-Latin font, define the respective font in the
English layout. Select the whole layout and then set the font.

10.3

Text export and text import with the Text Distributor

10.3.1

Text export and text import in the Text Distributor

Introduction
WinCC allows the configuration of projects for many languages. The text records are displayed
in runtime depending on the respective language.
All text for your project is managed centrally in the Text Library except for text from the
"Graphics Designer" editor.
The Text Distributor is a comfortable tool for exporting and importing all language-dependent
text. Here you can export and import targeted languages, individual objects or groups of
objects. The exported data is processed with an external program.

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10.3.2

Text Distributor

Introduction
You have the following options for starting Text Distributor:
Double-clicking in WinCC Explorer
In the "Text Library" editor with the menu command "Tools > Export..." or "Tools > Import..."
In the "Graphics Designer" editor with the "Tools > Text Import & Export..." menu command.

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Text Distributor Screen Capture

The "Text Distributor" has the following tabs:
"Exporting texts"

"Importing texts"

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Both tabs have two windows:

The left window lists all editors with language-dependent texts. You can include or exclude
individual editors during export or import.
The right window has several areas:
For the "Exporting texts" tab:
Enter the file prefix of the export files in the "Export files" area. You select the following:
The path where the files are to be saved
The file format
For the "Importing texts" tab:
Enter the file prefix of the import files in the "Import files" area. You select the following:
The path where the files are saved
The file format
For the "Exporting texts" tab:
In the "Graphics Designer" area, select individual pictures from which you want to export
text. If necessary, create one file per picture during export.
For the "Importing texts" tab:
In the "Graphics Designer" area, select individual pictures for which you want to import
text again. If available, you can import one file per picture.
In the "Languages" area, select the languages to be exported or imported.
In the "Existing texts" area, set whether already existing data should be deleted,
replaced or enhanced.

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10.3.3

How to export language-dependent texts

General procedure
Use the text distributor to export language-dependent texts to CSV files or TXT files. The text
distributor creates several files that all begin with the same description.
Example:
In the "File prefix:" field, enter the description "Mixing_station". In the "File format:" field select
"*.txt". The following files are created:
Mixing_station_Languages.txt
Mixing_station_DataManager.txt
Mixing_station_AlarmLogging.txt
Etc.
NOTICE
Invalid file format
If you are using "*.csv" as the export format, Excel converts the Unicode file into an ANSI
file.
If you want to edit the exported data with Excel, select the "*.txt" file format during export.
Note
Exportable and importable languages
The text distributor only makes available for export those languages that come from the
same language area and use the same code page.
For example, if you want to export Asian text, the associated system locale (operating
system language) must be set in the system control of your operating system. The
associated languages will only then be available.
"English" is always available.

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Procedure
1. Open the text distributor by double-clicking in WinCC Explorer.
2. Check or uncheck the editors from which you want to export text. If necessary, check or
uncheck the individual objects of the editors.

3. In the "Export files" area under "Path:", select the path in which the export files are to be
stored.
4. In the "File prefix:" field, enter a meaningful description.
All export files are created with a name that begins with this description.
5. In the "File format:" field, select the desired format "*.txt" or "*.csv".
6. Make the settings for the export.
If you only want to export text from individual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor:
Start selecting the desired pictures in the "Graphics Designer" area using the "Selection"
button.
If you want to create a separate export file for each picture:
Select "One file per picture" in the "Graphics Designer" area.
If you want to export individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.

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7. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to delete already existing export files:
Select the option "Delete existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you want to replace text in the already existing export files.
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite text in already existing export files:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
8. Start the export process using the "Export" button.

Results
The export files are created and saved in the select path.
Note
If a picture contains "unknown objects", the export or import of the picture is aborted
immediately und "Unknown" is appears in the information window.

10.3.4

Structure of the Export Files

10.3.4.1

Overview of the export files

Overview
Use the Text Distributor to export language-dependent texts to CSV files or TXT files. During
export, the Text Distributor creates several files that all begin with the same description.
Example:
You enter description "Mixing_station" in the "File prefix" field. You select "*.txt" in the "File
format:" field. The following files are created:
Mixing_station_Languages.txt
Mixing_station_DataManager.txt
Mixing_station_AlarmLogging.txt
Etc.

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Export Files
A different number of files are created depending on which objects you select during export.
The following types of files exist:
Files for text from the "Text Library" editor
Files for text from the "Graphics Designer" editor
File "<Description>_Languages.csv" or "<Description>_Languages.txt"
This file is created.
This file specifies the following for the text:
Language-specific font type
Language-specific font size
Etc.

If font type, font size, etc. are configured for the language-dependent text in the "Graphics
Designer", the settings in the "Graphics Designer" editor apply.

10.3.4.2

Construction of files with text from the Text Library

Overview
Use the Text Distributor to export language-dependent texts to CSV files or TXT files. During
export, the text from the Text Library is saved in the following files:
<Description>_AlarmLogging.txt or <Description>_AlarmLogging.csv
<Description>_DataManager.txt or <Description>_DataManager.csv
<Description>_LifeBeatMonitoring.txt or <Description>_LifeBeatMonitoring.csv
<Description>_PictureTreeManager.txt or <Description>_PictureTreeManager.csv
<Description>_NoSystemtext.txt or Description>_NoSystemtext.csv
<Description>_UserAdministrator.txt or Description>_UserAdministrator.csv
<Description>_GraphicsDesignerReferences.txt or
<Description>_GraphicsDesignerReferences.csv
The associated files are created depending on which editors you select during export.
Note
Information on the font type, font size, etc. of a language is entered in the
"<Description>_Languages.csv" or "<Description>_Languages.txt" file. Change the entries if
necessary.
You can also generate the "<Description>_NoSystemtext.txt", or
"<Description>_NoSystemtext.csv" file. This file can contain the following:

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Text that was not found in the configuration.
This can happen for the following reasons:
The text is no longer used in the configuration.
The text is used e.g. in the Global Script.

Structure of the Files

A separate block is created for each object type. Each block has the following structure:
[Header]
The object type is entered here: e.g.: <MessageClassName> and a header line consisting
of [ID] and the respective languages, e.g. English, German.
Exported texts
The text ID from the Text Library is entered in the following rows in the first column. The
following columns contain the text in the respective language.
Example: File "Example_AlarmLogging.txt" with object blocks <MessageClassStateCome>,
<MessageTypeName> and <MessageBlocks>
<MessageClassStateCome>

ID

English

German

Spanish

<MessageTypeName>

ID

English

German

Spanish

Alarm

Alarm

Alarma

Warning

Warnung

Advertencia

10

Failure

Fehler

Error

11

Process control
system

Leittechnik

Sistema de control de
procesos

12

System messages

Systemmeldungen

Avisos de sistema

13

Operator input
messages

Bedienmeldungen

Avisos de operador

ID

English

German

Spanish

14

Date

Datum

Fecha

<MessageBlocks>

10.3.4.3

Construction of files with text records from the "Graphics Designer" editor

Overview
When exporting, the text records of the "Graphics Designer" editor are stored in file
"<Description>_GraphicsDesigner". If you have activated "One file per picture" for the export
procedure, another file is created for every picture.
Per picture, the file contains a header, an object description and the objects.
Example:

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[Header]
The picture name is entered here, e.g.: <PIC_1.PDL>
[Object]
Object description: Indicates what is contained in the respective columns.
Column "Object"
Object name of the object that contains language-dependent text.
Column "Property"
Language-dependent property of the object.
The language column, e.g. "English".
Format information and text for every existing language in the columns:
"FontName", "FontSize", "FontBold", "FontItalic", "FontUnderline"
[Objects]
The objects are defined with the existing text records and properties in the following lines.
If the text does not exist, "??????" is entered.
Example: Export file "Example_GraphicsDesigner" with pictures PIC_1.PDL and PIC_2.PDL
The German text records are not translated yet and are entered as "??????".
PIC_1.PDL

Object

Property

English

Static Text1 Text

Static Text2 Text
Text list

English
English
Font FontSiz
Name
e

English
FontBold

English
FontItalic

English German
Font
Underline

German
....
Font
Name

Valve

Arial

12

False

False

False

??????

Arial

....

Motor

Arial

12

False

False

False

??????

Arial

....

Assignm
ent

closed

Arial

12

False

False

False

??????

Arial

....

PIC_2.PDL

Object

Property

English

English
English
Font FontSiz
Name
e

English
FontBold

English
FontItalic

English German
Font
Underline

German
....
Font
Name

Static Text1 Text

Engine

Arial

12

False

False

False

??????

Arial

....

.....

....

....

...

....

...

....

....

....

...

.....

Note
Text records in text lists
If text records from text lists have been put in the Text Library, these text records are exported
into the following files:
"<Description>_GraphicsDesigner" or respective picture file
"<Designation>_GraphicsDesignerReferences"
If you import file "<Description>_GraphicsDesignerReferences" again, make sure that the
text records of the text lists are translated exactly as in the respective export file of the
"Graphics Designer" editor.

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Line wraps
If line wraps are included in the language-dependent text records, the placeholder {CR} {LF}
is entered. Do not change or delete the place holder. The placeholder must exist in the identical
positions in the translated text records.

10.3.4.4

Structure of the "_Languages" Files

Overview
The "<Description>_Languages.csv" file is created. The file specified the default settings for
font type, font size, etc. for each language.
Note
If font type, font size, etc. are configured for the language-dependent text in the "Graphics
Designer", the settings in the "Graphics Designer" editor are applied.
The "*_Languages.csv" is structured as follows:
[Header]
The header has two lines.
The file type is entered in the first line: <Languages>.
The headers are entered in the second line. This line indicates which information is entered
in the following columns:
LanguageName: Name of the language
LanguageID: Language code
FontName: Name of the font type used
FontSize: Size of the font type
FontBold: "Bold" font type
FontItalic: "Italics" font type
FontUnderlined: Underline
Information for each language
The following lines contain the corresponding entries for each language created.
Example:

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<Languages>

LanguageName

LanguageID

FontName

FontSize

FontBold FontItalic FontUnderlined

English

1033

Arial

9.75

False

False

False

German

1031

Arial

9.75

False

False

False

French

1036

Arial

9.75

True

False

False

Italian

1040

Arial

9.75

False

False

False

Spanish

1034

Arial

9.75

False

False

False

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10.3.4.5

Status bar for the export and import

After the export or import, a dialog appears in which all export or import procedures are
handled.
The "Info" dialog lists messages in the following categories:
"OK" (Successful export or import)
"Warning"
"Error" (An error has occurred during export or import.)
"Info" (With export: Object contains no language-dependent text records, with import: No
text records have been imported for this object.)
You filter the output of the dialog by clicking on the respective buttons by the categories.
Example:

10.3.5

How to translate the text records externally

General procedure
The exported TXT or CSV files can be edited e.g. in Excel, Access or in a text editor like
Notepad. This chapter describes the process for editing in Excel.
NOTICE
Invalid file format
If you are using "*.csv" as the export format, Excel converts the Unicode file into an ANSI file.

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If you want to edit the exported data with Excel, select the "*.txt" file format during export.
Please note the following:
Only permitted changes can be made in the exported files and before import to WinCC.

Impermissible Changes
The following changes are not permitted:
Structural changes to the export file.
Swapping, deleting or duplicate use of IDs or object descriptions.
Text changes in the header area. This text is generally identified by angled brackets: <>.
Text changes in WinCC if text is in the translation. New text can be added in the editors. If
you change exported text, it is overwritten with the original text depending on the setting
during import.

Line Breaks
If language-dependent text contains line breaks, the placeholders {CR} {LF} are entered. Do
not change or delete the placeholders. The placeholders must be in the translated text at the
identical positions.
Note
To edit texts containing non-Latin fonts, use a software package that can save Unicode. Excel
is not suitable for this purpose. Use Access instead or use the programming interface from
WinCC to access picture text. Alternatively, use a version of Excel in the respective language.
Note
Information on the font type, font size, etc. of a language are entered in the
"<Description>_Languages" file. Change the entries if necessary.
If a language was not created in the Text Library before export, add the language entry for
this language in the "<Description>_Languages" file.
Note
The export files of the "Graphics Designer" editor also have information on the font, font size,
etc. Change the entries in the desired languages if required.
NOTICE
Text Import Not Possible
Do not double-click in Windows Explorer to open the files. Otherwise the file will be loaded
to Excel incorrectly. An import into WinCC is then no longer possible.
When using Excel, open the file as described below.

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Procedure
1. Open Excel.
2. Select "File > Open".
The "Open" dialog is displayed.
3. Select the path where the export files will be saved.
4. Select type "Text files (*.txt)" from the "File type" list.
5. Select your export file and click "Open".
The file is correctly opened in Excel.
6. Translate the necessary text. Note the aforementioned information.
7. When translation is complete, use "File > Save As" and save the file in TXT format again.

Results
The TXT file contains the translated text. You can import the TXT file into the WinCC project
using the Text Distributor.

10.3.6

How to import language-dependent texts

General procedure
During export, the text distributor creates several files that all begin with the same description.
Example:
In the "File prefix:" field, enter the description "Mixing_station" and in the "File format:" field
enter "*.txt". The following files are created:
Mixing_station_Languages.txt
Mixing_station_DataManager.txt
Mixing_station_AlarmLogging.txt
Etc.
If you specify this description again in the "File prefix:" field during import, all available objects
are listed in the left window. You can select from the present languages and objects.

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Note
Exportable and importable languages
The text distributor only makes available for export those languages that come from the same
language area and use the same code page.
For example, if you want to export Asian text, the associated system locale (operating system
language) must be set in the system control of your operating system. The associated
languages will only then be available.
"English" is always available.

Procedure
1. Open the text distributor by double-clicking in WinCC Explorer.
2. Go to the "Import text" tab.
3. Navigate in the "Import files" area under "Path:" to the path where the files you want to
import are saved.
4. Check or uncheck the desired editors from which you want to import text.
5. In the "File prefix:" field, enter the description with which the text was exported.
All export files were created with a name that begins with this description.
The objects that you can import are listed.

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6. In the "File format:" field, select the format of the texts.
7. Make the settings for the import.
If you only want to import text from individual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor:
Start selecting the desired pictures in the "Graphics Designer" area using the "Selection"
button.
If you created one picture per file when exporting, activate "One file per picture".
If you want to import individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.
8. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to replace already existing text entries:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite already existing text entries:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
9. Start the import process by pressing "Import".

Results
The content of the files is written to the corresponding language columns in the text library or
to the language-dependent objects in the Graphics Designer.
Note
If a picture contains "unknown objects", the export or import of the picture is aborted
immediately und "Unknown" is appears in the information window.

10.4

Text Management with the "Text Library" Editor

10.4.1

Text management with the "Text Library" editor

General Procedure
All text for your project is managed centrally in the Text Library except for text from the Graphics
Designer. Each text entry is assigned a unique ID, by which the texts in WinCC are referenced.

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Links Between the WinCC Editors and the Text Library

The following WinCC editors store your texts in the Text Library:
Alarm Logging:
All user defined texts (messages, points of error, etc.) and standard texts (default names
for message classes, message status, etc.)
Graphics Designer:
Only the text records from the respectively configured text lists
User Administrator:
Authorizations
User Archives (option):
All configured text (field names, etc.)
Picture Tree Manager (optional):
All configured text

Languages in the Text Library

If you set another project language in an editor, such as the Alarm Logging editor, the
corresponding language column is automatically created in the Text Library.
Note
With languages not installed with WinCC, note that the standard texts are entered in the
current WinCC GUI language because these other languages are not stored in WinCC. If the
project language and the WinCC GUI language are different, you must also translate the
standard texts.

Translating the text

You are provided with the following possibilities for translating text records in the Text Library:
External translation of exported text records
The external translation of the text records involves 3 steps:
Exporting the text records with the Text Distributor
Translate the text records in an external program
Importing the text records with the Text Distributor
If was are managing large amounts of text in the Text Library, you can also use the WinCC
SmartTool "ConfigurationTool" for importing and exporting the text records for instance.
Direct input of the translated text records in the respective language columns of the "Text
Library" editor

Font Administration
You can set a custom font for each language created in the Text Library. This is particularly
important if you are configuring in non-Latin fonts and to create, say, a Cyrillic font. The set
font is applied at the referenced locations in WinCC.

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10.4.2

How to export texts from the Text Library for the translation
You have the following options for translating text in the text library:
Direct entry of the translated text in the corresponding language columns
External translation
External translation is recommended for a large amount of text.

External translation
External translation is an easy option for creating multilingual projects.
To estimate the translation effort, show the amount of text using the "Tools > Statistics" menu
command.
External translation has 3 steps:
1. Export the text
2. Translation
3. Import the translated text
Perform the export and import using the text distributor.
Note
Exportable and importable languages
The text distributor only makes available for export those languages that come from the same
language area and use the same code page.
For example, if you want to export Asian text, the associated system locale (operating system
language) must be set in the system control of your operating system. The associated
languages will only then be available.
"English" is always available.
NOTICE
Invalid file format
If you are using "*.csv" as the export format, Excel converts the Unicode file into an ANSI file.
If you want to edit the exported data with Excel, select the "*.txt" file format during export.

Requirement
The "Text Library" editor opens.

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Procedure
1. Select the "Tools > Export..." menu command.
The text distributor opens.

2. Check or uncheck the editors from which you want to export text. If necessary, check or
uncheck the individual objects of the editors.
3. Navigate in the "Export files" area under "Path:" to the path in which the export files are
stored.
4. In the "File prefix:" field, enter a meaningful description.
All export files are created with a name that begins with this description.
5. In the "File format:" field, select the desired format "*.txt" or "*.csv".
6. Make the settings for the export.
If you want to create a separate export file for each picture:
Select "One file per picture" in the "Graphics Designer" area.
If you want to export individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.

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7. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to delete already existing export files:
Select the option "Delete existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you want to replace text in the already existing export files:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite text in already existing export files:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
8. Start the export process using the "Export" button.

Results
The text was exported.
You can find additional information on this procedure in the "Text export and text import with
the Text Distributor (Page1732)" section.

10.4.3

How to import texts from the Text Library for the translation

Overview
After you have translated the exported text, import the text to the WinCC project using the text
distributor.
Note
Exportable and importable languages
The text distributor only makes available for export those languages that come from the same
language area and use the same code page.
For example, if you want to export Asian text, the associated system locale (operating system
language) must be set in the system control of your operating system. The associated
languages will only then be available.
"English" is always available.

Requirement
The "Text Library" editor opens.

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Proceed as follows to start the import

1. Select the "Tools > Import..." menu command.
The text distributor opens.
2. Go to the "Import text" tab.

3. Navigate in the "Import files" area under "Path:" to the path where the files you want to
import are saved.
4. Check or uncheck the desired editors from which you want to import text.
5. In the "File prefix:" field, enter the description with which the text was exported.
All export files were created with a name that begins with this description.
The objects that you can import are listed.
6. In the "File format:" field, select the format of the texts.
7. Make the settings for the import.
If you only want to import text from individual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor:
Start selecting the desired pictures in the "Graphics Designer" area using the "Selection"
button.
If you created one picture per file when exporting, activate "One file per picture".
If you want to import individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.

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8. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to replace already existing text entries:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite already existing text entries:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
9. Start the export process by pressing "Import".

Results
The text was imported.
You can find additional information on this procedure in the "Text export and text import with
the Text Distributor (Page1732)" section.

10.4.4

Operator's overview of the Text Library

Operation of the Text Library

You will find the editor language entries created in the project listed in clear table form in the
Text Library. Each language entry is provided with an ID which is its unique reference in the
WinCC database. The status bar shows how much text there is, and the number of filtered
texts.

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Operator's Overview
The following sections give you an overview of the most important options for operating the
"Text Library" editor. Certain menu commands can also be run via the pop-up menus, or via
the shortcut shown after the menu command concerned.
Note
Inputs or changes are automatically saved to the WinCC database when you exit from a field.

Translating text
Objective

Solution

Export text from the Text Library for translation.

"Tools > Export..."

Import translated text into the Text Library.

"Tools > Import..."

Language administration
Objective

Solution

Add a new language.

"Language > Add/Remove..."

Delete a language.

"Language > Add/Remove..."

Objective

Solution

Set font type for a language, e.g. for cyrillic

characters.

"Language > Settings..."

Objective

Solution

Copy highlighted cell.

"Edit > Copy cell"

Copy highlighted row(s).

"Edit > Copy row(s)"

Insert copied area.

A line is always inserted in the current cursor
position.

"Edit > Paste"

Delete the content of the highlighted cell

"Edit > Delete cell contents"

Delete highlighted row(s).

"Edit > Delete row(s)"

Setting fonts

Editing entries

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Find and replace

Objective

Solution

Search and replace text in the selected language

in the highlighted area or in the entire Text Library.

"Edit > Find and Replace"

Objective

Solution

Only display text from selected editors.

"Tools > Filter"

Filter Text Library

Searching for Missing Text IDs

Objective

Solution

Find a text ID used in the project but that does not

exist in the Text Library.

"Tools > Missing text ID"

Objective

Solution

Set table properties.

"Tools > Options..."

Text Library View

Generating reports
Objective

Solution

Print contents of the Text Library as a report.

"File > Print Project Documentation"

Set parameters of a report, e.g. select the

template.

"File" > "Project Documentation - Setup"

Check a report prior to printing.

"File" > "View Project Documentation"

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10.4.5

Working with the Text Library

10.4.5.1

How to Add New Lines into the Text Library

Procedure
A new line is always added at the end of the Text Library.
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. In order to add a term to the Text Library, enter the terms in the respective language columns
in the last line.
The new text is automatically provided with a new, consecutive ID.

10.4.5.2

How to Set the Language Font

Introduction
If your WinCC project includes configuration languages with non-Latin fonts, e.g. Cyrillic, Asian
or Greek, you must set the font for the corresponding language in the "Text Library" editor.
Note
If the newly selected configuration language originates from another linguistic area as the
previous one, you must also change the operating system language (system locale).
Switching the operating system language is necessary so that the character set works with
the proper code page.
Restart your operating system after changing the language.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the "Language > Settings" menu command.
The list of configuration languages is displayed.
3. Click in the list of configuration languages on the desired language.
4. Set the font, the font style and font size as well as other settings.

10.4.5.3

How to Create a New Language

Introduction
A language column must be created for every configuration language in the Text Library.

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Automatic language definition

Language columns are also created automatically as soon as you change the project language
in an editor, e.g. in the "Alarm Logging" editor.
Note
Languages must be defined in the Text Library in order for them to be available as runtime
languages.

Requirement
The language must be installed.
If the new language originates from a linguistic area other than the the previous defined
language, you must also change the operating system language (system locale). Switching
the operating system language is necessary so that the character set works with the proper
code page. Restart your operating system after changing the language.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the menu command "Language > Add/Remove...".
The "Languages" dialog will appear. The "Languages" dialog contains the lists "All available
languages" and "Text library languages".
3. Mark the desired language in the list "All available languages" and click on button ">".
4. In order to predefine the new language column with text records from a language that has
already been defined, select the desired language from the selection field "Define text for
new languages with:".
5. Close the dialog by clicking "OK".

Results
New columns are created with no entries for the selected languages.

Further procedures for languages with non-Latin character sets

If the language uses a non-Latin font, assign the appropriate font:
1. Select the "Language > Settings..." menu command.
The languages held in the Text Library are displayed for you in a dialog.
2. Mark the language for which you want to change the font.
3. Set the font and the font properties in the "Font" dialog.
4. Close the dialog by clicking "OK".

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10.4.5.4

How to Delete a Language

General procedure
If you no longer need one of the configuration languages in your project, delete the language
column together with all its associated text entries by means of a centralized operation in the
"Text Library" editor.
Delete individual language entries directly in the objects concerned.
NOTICE
Permanently deleting a language
Before deleting a language make absolutely sure that the language is no longer needed in
your project. When you delete a language, all the existing texts in that language are deleted
irretrievably.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the menu command "Language > Add/Remove...".
The "Languages" dialog will appear. The "Languages" dialog contains the lists "All available
languages" and "Text library languages".
3. Mark the desired language in the "Text library languages" list and click on button "<".
4. Close the "Languages" dialog by clicking "OK".

Results
The language columns for the selected languages are permanently deleted from the Text
Library.

10.4.5.5

How to copy cells or lines

General procedure
You can copy individual cells or lines in the editor to the clipboard or insert them from the
clipboard in the "Text Library" editor.

Procedure - copy cell

1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the desired text cell.
3. Select the "Edit > Copy cell" menu command. As an alternative, you can click in the toolbar
on the icon
or select the command from the pop-up menu.

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Results - copy cell

The text is put in the clipboard and is held there for external applications as well.

Procedure - copying lines

1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the desired lines.
Mark lines that are not next to one another by pressing the CTRL key and the left mouse
button at the same time.
3. Select the "Edit > Copy line(s)" menu command. As an alternative, you can click in the
toolbar on the icon or select the command from the pop-up menu.

Results - copy lines

The marked lines are put in the clipboard and are held there for external applications as well.

Procedure - Insert cell or lines

1. Mark the desired cell, into which you want to insert. If you are inserting lines, mark the first
line to insert into in the "ID" column.
2. Select the "Edit > Paste" menu command. As an alternative, you can click in the toolbar on
the icon
or select the command from the pop-up menu.

Results - Insert cell or lines

The copied cell or lines are inserted from the clipboard into the marked cell or the marked lines.
If you insert lines into the last line, new lines are created with unique IDs.

10.4.5.6

How to delete cell contents

General Procedure
You can delete the content of individual cells in the "Text Library" editor.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the desired cell.
3. Select the "Edit > Cell content" menu command. As an alternative, you can click in the
toolbar on the icon
or select the command from the pop-up menu.

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Results
The content of the marked cell is deleted.

10.4.5.7

How to delete lines or areas

General Procedure
You can delete one or more lines in the "Text Library" editor.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Mark the desired text line or the desired text lines.
Mark lines that are not next to one another by pressing the CTRL key and the left mouse
button at the same time.
3. Select the "Edit > Delete line(s)" menu command. As an alternative, you can click in the
toolbar on the icon or select the command from the pop-up menu.

Results
The marked lines are deleted.

10.4.5.8

How to find and replace text

General procedure
You can find text in the text library and replace the text if required. The function "Find and
replace" can be executed specific to the respective language and only in marked areas if
required.

Procedure - finding text

1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Mark the text lines in which you want to find the respective text as required.
3. Select the "Edit > Find and replace" menu command.
The "Find and replace" dialog will appear.
4. In the "Search for:" field, enter the search term.
5. In the "Search for:" field, select the following:
Choose whether you want to search through the entire text library or only in the marked
area.
Choose between "All languages" or a configuration language, in which you want to
search.

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6. In order to define other search options, click on the "+" button.
The search options are displayed.
Activate the desired search options.
7. Start the search by clicking on the "Find next" button.
The cursor marks the first cell with the search text. If the search text does not exist, a
message is output.
8. Continue the search by clicking on the "Find next" button.
If no more text is found, a message is output.

Result - finding text

If the search text exists, it is marked in the first location that it is found in the text library.

Procedure - replacing text

1. Mark the text lines within which you want to replace the respective text as required.
2. Select the "Edit > Find and replace" menu command.
The "Find and replace" dialog will appear.
3. Change to the "Replace tab.
4. In the ""Search for:" field enter the search term.
5. In the "Search for:" field enter the new term.
6. In order to search the entire text library, select "Find in" "Complete text library".
7. In order to search through a marked area, select "Find in" "Current selection".
8. To search through all languages, activate "All languages".
9. To search through certain languages, select the desired languages.
10.In order to define other search options, click on the "+" button.
The search options are displayed.
Activate the desired search options.
11.To replace all text positions at the same time, click on the "Replace all" button. Under "Tools/
Options", you can also specify that all found text should be replaced in one go.
12.Replace targeted text positions by clicking on the "Find next" button. If you want to replace
the position that has been found, click on the "Replace" button. By clicking on the "Find
next" button, the cursor jumps to the next instance of the term.
If the search text does not exist, a message is output.

Result - replacing text

The text that matches the search text is replaced in the text library.

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10.4.5.9

How to filter the display in the "Text Library" editor

General procedure
Use the filter function to display text in the "Text Library" editor.

Texts of the "Graphics Designer" editor

To filter texts of the "Graphics Designer" editor for the first time, proceed as follows:
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the "Tools > Filter" menu command. Alternatively, click

on the toolbar.

3. To launch the view click the "Read" button in the "Graphics Designer" area.
For this procedure, you must close all pictures in the Graphics Designer editor. The
procedure takes several seconds. The "Text Library" editor creates an internal file.
As soon as this file has been created, you can additionally select the "Graphics Designer"
editor in the filter settings. If you then make changes in the "Graphics Designer" editor, you
must update the text references. To do so, click on the "Update" button in the "Graphics
Designer" area.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the "Tools > Filter" menu command. Alternatively, click
in the toolbar.
The "Filter Settings" dialog is displayed. All available editors are listed and activated.
3. Uncheck the the editors, the text from which you do not want to display.
4. Start output with "OK".

Results
The text from the selected editors is displayed. As long as the filter is active, the status bar
shows the following:
The

symbol

The number of filtered texts

Deactivating a Filter
Deactivate the filter by clicking "Delete filter" in the "Filter Settings" dialog box.

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10.4.5.10 How to find inconsistencies in the configuration

General Procedure
Inconsistencies in your configuration can be determined using the filter function and the
"Missing text" function.

Text that is not used

The "Not system text" setting in the filter function indicates the following:
Text that exists in the Text Library but is not used in the configuration.

Not system text

The following text is also output with filter setting "Not system text":
The text records are used e.g. in Global Script.

Procedure - Show not used text

1. Select the "Tools > Filter" menu command. As an alternative, click this toolbar icon
The "Filter" dialog opens. All of the editors that are available are listed.

2. Deactivate all editors. Leave only the "Not system text" entry activated.
3. Start the output with "OK".

Results
All text that is not allocated in the configuration is listed.

Missing text
You are presented with the IDs of the text records that are deleted in the Text Library but are
used in the configuration with the "Missing text" function. The application point is also indicated.

Procedure - "Find missing text ID"

1. Select the "Tools > Missing Text ID" menu command.
The "Missing Text ID" dialog is displayed. The IDs of the text records that do not exist but
are used in the configuration are listed.
2. In order to recreate the marked text entry, click on the "Create" button.
The respective Text ID is created again.
Enter the respective text in the generated line.

Results
The Text ID is created again.

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10.4.5.11 How to change the settings of the text library

You can adjust the display to your requirements in the "Text Library" editor.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the "Tools > Options..." menu command. Alternatively, click
The "Options" dialog box is opened.

on the toolbar.

3. Set the desired properties.

The settings become active immediately.

Results
The display is changed in the "Text Library" editor.

10.5

Multilingual Pictures in the "Graphics Designer" Editor

10.5.1

Multilingual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor

Languages in the "Graphics Designer" editor

In the "Graphics Designer" editor, you can create text for graphic objects in all the languages
that are installed in your operating system.
The text that you configure in the "Graphics Designer" editor is saved with each picture. You
can export the text, translate it outside WinCC and import it again. You can export and import
the text records with the Text Distributor. If you have configured only a few texts for your
pictures, you can enter the translated texts in each picture as required.
The object known as Text List is a special case. With the Text list object, you can select whether
you want to store the configured text in the picture itself or in the Text Library. The text is stored
in the picture as default.
Note
Operating system support-Languages
Of the operating system languages, WinCC only supports the primary languages, i.e. English
(USA) but not English (GB).

Language switching in the "Graphics Designer" editor

When you open the Graphics Designer, the selected runtime language is set as the
configuration language. If you want to check a translation or enter text directly in another

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language, change the configuration language in the "Graphics Designer" editor. This requires
that the desired configuration language is installed on your operating system.
To change the project language, select the menu "View > Language...". A list box shows you
all the languages available on your system (primary languages).
After changing, all configured texts are displayed in the selected language. If you have not yet
configured a language, its texts are displayed with characters "???" instead of the text.
The current project language is displayed in the status bar of the "Graphics Designer" editor.
Note
Different linguistic regions
If the newly selected language originates from another linguistic area as the previous one,
you must also change the operating system language (system locale).
Start your operating system again afterwards.

Displaying the text for the controls

The text display for the Controls in the "Graphics Designer" editor is based on the configuration
language set in the WinCC Explorer.
Example:
The configuration e.g. in the "Graphics Designer" editor is in an Asian language. In order to
display the text of an inserted control correctly, you must also select this Asian language in
the WinCC Explorer.

Restrictions
National special characters from different linguistic regions (e.g. Western European and Asian)
should not be used together in the same picture. When storing a picture under another
operating system language, these characters can be changed based on the code page.

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Remedy
Option 1:
Use different pictures for different linguistic regions. Edit and save the pictures with the
appropriate language setting.
Option 2:
Select an Asian operating system language for Latin fonts, too. By modifying the registry,
automatic font association can be manipulated in such as way that Latin national special
characters can also be displayed. Further information can be found on the Microsoft support
pages.
Change the registry entry from [HKEY LOCAL MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet
\Control\fontassoc\Associated CharSet] "ANSI(00)="yes" to "no".
NOTICE
Influence of the operating system
Always carry out the changes in the Registry carefully because this can otherwise lead
to unwanted problems with the operating system!

10.5.2

Language-dependent properties of picture objects

Language Input Options for Picture Objects

Depending on the picture object, you have different options for entering text:
In the object itself, such as in the case of static text
In the Configuration dialog, for example for the label on a button
Object Properties dialog:
In the object properties, enter the major part of the text directly or in other dialogs such as
tooltips, output text, text attributes.
Additional information on configuring graphic objects can be found in the WinCC information
system in chapter "Creating process pictures".

Language-Dependent Object Properties

The objects of the "Graphics Designer" editor have different object properties with different
language properties. With the exception of the window titles of the smart object, picture
windows/application windows and certain WinCC controls, you can change the language of
all object properties.

"Text" property
Objects: Static text, Text list, Button, Checkbox, Radio button, Multiple row text, List field,
Combo-box

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"Font" property
Objects: Static text, I/O field, Bar, Group display, Text list, Multiple row text, List field, Combobox

"Tooltip" property
Objects: All objects except Picture Window and Application Window
Special Features: Tooltips can certainly be configured in multiple languages, but without any
special setting for the font. When configuring tooltips in non-Latin fonts, you must set the
corresponding font in your operating system's Control Panel in runtime:
Windows XP:
Select the "Extended" button under "Start > Settings > Control Panel > Display > Layout".
Select the "Quickinfo" element from the list.
Define the font.
Windows Vista:
Select the "Extended" button under "Start > Control Panel > Display > Appearance and
themes > Change color scheme".
Select the "Quickinfo" element from the list.
Define the font.
Note that when you change the operating system language, the tooltips in all the other Windows
applications are also changed.

"Window Header" property

Objects: Picture Window, Application Window

ActiveX controls
Certain ActiveX Controls have text properties such as Column Name, Window Title or Axis
Label for which the language cannot be changed. In WinCC these properties are stored in all
languages installed with WinCC and are correctly displayed in runtime. If you are configuring
in a language that was not installed via WinCC, these elements are displayed in runtime in the
default runtime language (English).
When configuring language changes to languages with non-Latin fonts, use a neutral language
for these ActiveX Control properties, such as English without a special font. If you have
configured a non-Latin font for these object properties, this font is used for each displayed
language.

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Note
Alarm control with the configuration of Asian languages
To add an alarm control to a picture in an Asian Language, the Asian texts such as column
names in the "Text Library" editor will be inserted when you open the "Alarm Logging" editor
for the first time.

10.5.3

How to export and import text from pictures

Introduction
You have the following options for translating text in the "Graphics Designer" editor:
External translation
External translation is recommended for a large amount of text.
Direct entry of the translated text in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
Set up the required configuration language.
This section describes the procedure for exporting and importing text with the text distributor.
Note
Text from Text Lists
Text records from text lists stored in the text library are saved in the
"<Description>_GraphicsDesignerReferences" file.

External translation
External translation provides an easy and comfortable option for creating multilingual projects.
To estimate the translation effort, show the amount of text using the "Tools > Statistics" menu
command.
External translation has 3 steps:
1. Export the text
2. Translating the text
3. Import the translated text
Perform the export and import using the text distributor.
Text Distributor gives you the following options:
You can export all the pictures from a project or just individual pictures.
You can create a separate file for each picture.
You can export all target languages or create a separate file for each language. This is
advantageous if you want to give the text to several translators. Make sure that no structural
changes whatsoever are made in the files, e.g. to the order of columns).

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Requirement
All languages that you wish to translate into must be created in the "Text Library" editor. The
text to be translated in all pictures and picture objects is configured in at least one language.
Observe the following points during configuration:
Text length
If you are configuring picture objects for multiple languages, be aware of the different text
lengths in the various languages. French text is about 50% longer than the equivalent
German text. Dimension your graphic objects accordingly.
Adapt Border
For the "Static Text" object ,you can use the Object Properties dialog box to set the attribute
"Properties > Miscellaneous > Adapt Border" to "Yes". The text border is then automatically
adapted to the contents.

Procedure - exporting texts

Note
Exportable and importable languages
The text distributor only makes available for export those languages that come from the same
language area and use the same code page.
For example, if you want to export Asian text, the associated system locale (operating system
language) must be set in the system control of your operating system. The associated
languages will only then be available.
"English" is always available.
NOTICE
Invalid file format
If you are using "*.csv" as the export format, Excel converts the Unicode file into an ANSI file.
If you want to edit the exported data with Excel, select the "*.txt" file format during export.

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1. Open the "Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Select the "Tools > Text Import & Export..." menu command.
The text distributor opens. Only the "Graphics Designer" entry is checked in the left selection
window.

3. Navigate in the "Export files" area under "Path:" to the path in which the export files are
stored.
4. In the "File prefix:" field, enter a meaningful description.
All export files are created with a name that begins with this description.
5. In the "File format:" field, select the desired format "*.txt" or "*.csv".

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6. Make the settings for the export.
If you only want to export text from individual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor:
Start selecting the desired pictures in the "Graphics Designer" area using the "Selection"
button.
If you want to create a separate export file for each picture:
Select "One file per picture" in the "Graphics Designer" area.
If you want to export individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.
7. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to delete already existing export files:
Select the option "Delete existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you want to replace text in the already existing export files:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite text in already existing export files:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
8. Start the export process using the "Export" button.
You can find additional information on this procedure in the "Text export and text import with
the Text Distributor (Page1732)" section.

Translating the text

The text is saved in CSV files after export. You can find additional information on translating
text in the "How to translate the text records externally (Page1743)" section.

Procedure - importing texts

1. Open the "Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Select the "Tools > Text Import & Export..." menu command.
The text distributor opens. Only the "Graphics Designer" entry is checked in the left selection
window.

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3. Go to the "Import text" tab.

4. Navigate in the "Import files" area under "Path:" to the path where the files you want to
import are saved.
5. Check or uncheck the desired editors from which you want to import text.
6. In the "File prefix:" field, enter the description with which the text was exported.
All export files were created with a name that begins with this description.
The objects that you can import are listed.
7. In the "File format:" field, select the format of the texts.
8. Make the settings for the import.
If you only want to import text from individual pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor:
Start selecting the desired pictures in the "Graphics Designer" area using the "Selection"
button.
If you created one picture per file when exporting, activate "One file per picture".
If you want to import individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.

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9. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to replace already existing text entries:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite already existing text entries:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
10.Start the import process by pressing "Import".
You can find additional information on this procedure in the "Text export and text import with
the Text Distributor (Page1732)" section.
After import, check your translations in Runtime or in the "Graphics Designer" editor. Reset
the Runtime language accordingly.

10.5.4

How to configure picture objects for more languages in the "Graphics Designer"
editor

Introduction
Texts that you configure in your pictures are not stored in the Text Library, but with the picture
itself.
This chapter provides the descriptions for procedures used to directly insert the translated text
records in the "Graphcis Designer" editor. These procedures are mainly suitable for small
amounts of text.
Observe the following while configuring:

Text length
If you are configuring picture objects for multiple languages, be aware of the different text
lengths in the various languages. A French text is about 50% longer than the equivalent
German. Dimension your graphic objects accordingly.

Adapt Border
For the "Static text" object, use the Object Properties dialog box to set the attribute "Properties
> Miscellaneous > Adapt border" to "Yes". The text border is then automatically adapted to the
contents.
Certain graphic objects have elements for which you cannot set the font. For these elements
select a neutral language such as English for the text entries.

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Note
Text list
The object known as Text List is a special case. If you are configuring a Text List for multiple
languages, please refer to "Configuring a Text List in Multiple Languages".
When configuring an I/O field, please note that WinCC only supports numbers for value input
in the form of Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, ...).

Basic procedure
In order to configure picture objects for multiple languages, proceed as follows:
1. First configure all pictures and picture objects in your preferred language.
2. Switch the configuration language in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
3. Enter the translated text directly on the objects in the respective language.
Untranslated texts are displayed as "???".

Alternative Procedures
In most cases you have several options for entering labels in picture objects, for example:
In the "Object Properties" dialog, under "Font" in "Text" field.
The font can be set.
In the "Configuration" dialog.
The font can be set.
The input window is still available which you can open from the Object Properties dialog:
For inputting text (an alternative to direct input).
The font cannot be set.
For inputting Tooltips.
The font cannot be set.
For inputting text for the Text List.
The font cannot be set.
Note
In the case of non-Latin fonts the text in the input field is sometimes incorrectly displayed
even though the font was correctly set, but the appearance in the picture is correct in
runtime. You can remedy this by entering the text in another application (such as Word)
and then using Copy & Paste to transfer it to the input field. If necessary, set the same
input methods in the source and target applications to properly carry out copy & paste.
The font for Tooltips cannot be set in WinCC. Text in non-Latin fonts is correctly displayed
in runtime if the corresponding font for tooltips is set in your operating system's Control
Panel. When you are configuring a project for Latin and non-Latin fonts, after a change
of language the font for tooltips must be correspondingly set in the operating system.
Additional information on configuring graphic objects can be found in the WinCC information
system in chapter "Creating process pictures".

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10.5.5

Configuring a Text List in Multiple Languages

Special characteristics of the text list

Select whether the configured text should be stored in the picture or in the text library for the
text list object.
For exporting with the text distributor, the text of the text lists is entered in the following export
files:
When storing the text directly in the picture
Only in the export file of the Graphics Designer or in the respective picture file
When storing the text in the text library
In the export file of the Graphics Designer or in the respective picture file
In the export file "<Description>_GraphicsDesignerReferences"

Procedure
1. Open the "Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Open the "Object Properties" dialog box of the text list from the shortcut menu.
3. On the "Properties" tab activate the "Output/Input" group.
4. Double click on "Assignments".
The "Textlist assignments" dialog box appears.
5. Enter the "Range type", "Value range" and the desired text for every value/value range.
6. Confirm your entries with "OK".
7. If you want to save text in the picture:
Export the text with the text distributor and translate the text externally.
For more information on the text distributor, refer to the section "How to export languagedependent texts (Page1736)".
As an alternative, change the configuration language in the "Graphics Designer" editor
and enter the translated text respectively.
8. If the texts are to be stored in the text library and translated:
On the "Properties" tab activate the "Miscellaneous" group.
Then double-click "Text Reference".
The default setting "no" switches to "yes". This stores the text records in the text library.
Export the text with the text distributor and translate the text externally.
For more information on the text distributor, refer to the section " Text export and text
import for translations".
As an alternative, start the "Text Library" editor and translate the text directly in the
respective language columns.
You can find additional information on translating text in the text library in the section
"Text management with the "Text Library" editor (Page1747)".

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You can find additional information on planning and configuring the text list in the WinCC
information system in the section "Creating process pictures".

10.6

Multilingual Messages in the "Alarm Logging" Editor

10.6.1

Multilingual messages

Languages in Alarm Logging

The following text records of the message system are stored centrally in the Text Library:
Text records that you configure yourself
Default text from WinCC
e.g. Default designations for message classes and message blocks

Creating the default text records in the "Text Library" editor

The languages are created in the "Text Library" editor. The default text records are entered
directly in the respective language columns. Standard texts also include the WinCC system
messages.
Open the "Alarm Logging" editor in WinCC. Do not open the "Text Library" editor until after
this.
If you proceed in this order, all standard texts in the installed WinCC languages will be
already entered in the Text Library.

Configuring with SIMATIC STEP7

When text for the message system is transferred from the SIMATIC Manager it too is stored
in the Text Library.

Compile message texts

You have the following possibilities for translating text records:
Externally, after an export with the Text Distributor
In the "Text Library" editor
In the "Alarm Logging" editor
Note
To the greatest possible extent, set the WinCC GUI and the the configuration language
the same in the "Alarm Logging" editor to prevent non-uniform languages in the GUI in
the "Text Library" editor.

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Language-Dependent Message Objects

The "Alarm Logging" editor is where you can find user texts and standard texts, both of which
are stored in the Text Library:
User texts
You configure user texts yourself. User text records contain the following:
Names of message classes
Names of message blocks
Names of message types
Message Text
Point of error
The user text records are entered immediately after the entry in the Text Library.
Standard texts
Standard text records are delivered in the languages installed with WinCC. Standard text
records are entered in the respective language column in the Text Library with the initial
call of the "Alarm Logging" editor or when creating the WinCC system messages. Standard
texts are default occupations for names of message classes, message types and message
block. Standard text records can be changed in the "Alarm Logging" editor or in the "Text
Library" editor.
Info texts
Info text records are also user text records. Help text is not stored in the Text Library and
its language cannot be changed. Only use help texts if you are configuring just one language
or enter the texts in a "neutral" language, e.g. English.
You enter Info text in a dedicated input window in the "Alarm Logging" editor.
Note
If you set up a language not installed with WinCC as the project language, the standard
texts are not entered in the selected project language, but in the current interface
language. You must therefore take special care that these texts are translated.

10.6.2

How to export and import message text records for the translation

General procedure
You have the following options for translating text in the "Alarm Logging" editor:
External translation
External translation is recommended for a large amount of text.
Direct entry of the translated text into the corresponding language columns of the "Text
Library" editor
Direct entry of the translated text in the "Alarm Logging" editor.

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External translation
External translation provides an easy and comfortable option for creating multilingual projects.
To estimate the translation effort, show the amount of text using the "Tools > Statistics" menu
command.
External translation has 3 steps:
1. Export the text
2. Translating the text
3. Import the translated text
Perform the export and import using the Text Distributor.

Procedure - Exporting texts

Note
Exportable and importable languages
The Text Distributor only makes available for export those languages that come from the
same language area and use the same codepage.
For example, if you want to export Asian text, the associated system locale (operating system
language) must be set in the system control of your operating system. The associated
languages will only then be available.
"English" is always available.
NOTICE
Invalid file format
If you are using "*.csv" as the export format, Excel converts the Unicode file into an ANSI file.
If you want to edit the exported data with Excel, select the "*.txt" file format during export.

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1. Open the Text Distributor in WinCC Explorer.

2. Check or uncheck the editors from which you want to export text. If necessary, check or
uncheck the individual objects of the editors.
3. Navigate in the "Export files" area under "Path:" to the path in which the export files are
stored.
4. In the "File prefix:" field, enter a meaningful description.
All export files are created with a name that begins with this description.
5. In the "File format:" field, select the desired format.
6. In the "File format:" field, select the desired format "*.txt" or "*.csv".
7. Make the settings for the export.
If you want to export individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.

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8. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to delete already existing export files:
Select the option "Delete existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you want to replace text in the already existing export files:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite text in already existing export files:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
9. Start the export process using the "Export" button.
Further information on this procedure can be found in the "Text export and text import with
the Text Distributor (Page1732)" chapter.

Translating the text

The text is saved in CSV files after export. More information on translating text can be found
in the "How to translate the text records externally (Page1743)" chapter.

Procedure - Importing texts

1. Open the Text Distributor in WinCC Explorer.
The Text Distributor opens.
2. Go to the "Import text" tab.

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3. Navigate to the path where the imported files are saved using "Path" in the "Import files"
area.
4. Check or uncheck the desired editors from which you want to import text.
5. In the "File prefix:" field, enter the description with which the text was exported.
All export files were created with a name that begins with this description.
The objects that you can import are listed.
6. In the "File format:" field, select the format of the texts.
7. Make the settings for the import.
If you want to import individual languages:
Start selecting the desired languages in the "Languages" area using the "Selection"
button.
8. Determine how to handle already existing text.
If you want to replace already existing text entries:
Select the option "Replace existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
If you do not want to overwrite already existing text entries:
Select the option "Retain existing texts" in the "Existing texts" area.
9. Start the import process by pressing "Import".
Further information on this procedure can be found in the "Text export and text import with
the Text Distributor (Page1732)" chapter.

Checking the Translation

After the import, check the translation of the text in Runtime or in the "Alarm Logging" editor.
Reset the Runtime language accordingly.

10.6.3

How to translate the message text records in the "Text Library" editor

General Procedure
You have the following possibilities for translating the text records of the "Alarm Logging" editor:
External translation
With a large number of text records, the external translation is recommended.
Direct input of the translated text records in the respective language columns of the "Text
Library" editor
Direct entry of the translated text records in the "Alarm Logging" editor

Enter translated text records in the "Text Library" editor

The text records from the "Alarm Logging" editor are stored in the Text Library. You can enter
the translated text records directly in the "Text Library" editor in the respective language
columns.

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Note
To the greatest possible extent, set the WinCC GUI and the the configuration language the
same in the "Alarm Logging" editor to prevent non-uniform languages in the GUI in the "Text
Library" editor.
Note
Configuration language not a language installed with WinCC
If you set up a language not installed with WinCC as the project language, the standard texts
are not entered in the selected project language, but in the current interface language. You
must therefore take special care that these texts are translated.

Procedure
1. Open the "Text Library" editor.
2. Select the "Tools > Filter" menu command. As an alternative, click this toolbar icon .
The "Filter" dialog opens. All of the editors that are available are listed and activated.
3. Deactivate all editors except for "Alarm Logging".
4. Start the output with "OK".
Only the text records from the "Alarm Logging" editor are shown.
5. Change the font centrally for each language where required.
6. Enter the translated text records in the appropriate language columns.

10.6.4

How to translate the message text records in the "Alarm Logging" editor

General Procedure
You have the following possibilities for translating the text records of the "Alarm Logging" editor:
External translation
With a large number of text records, the external translation is recommended.
Direct input of the translated text records in the respective language columns of the "Text
Library" editor
Direct entry of the translated text records in the "Alarm Logging" editor

Entering the translated text records in the "Alarm Logging" editor

When you open the "Alarm Logging" editor, the selected runtime language is set as the project
language. If you want to check a translation or enter text directly in another language, change
the configuration language in the "Alarm Logging" editor.
The desired project language must be installed in your operating system.

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To change the project language, select the menu "View > Language". A list box shows you all
the languages available on your system (primary languages).
After changing, all configured texts are displayed in the selected language. The text fields will
be blank or displayed with the user interface language that has been set if you have still not
configured the language.
The set project language is displayed in the status bar of the "Alarm Logging" editor.

Alternative Procedures
You can input language-dependent Alarm Logging texts in various dialogs.

User texts
You can configure user texts (message texts, names for message classes, message types,
message blocks, etc.) individually for each message:
Message texts: Directly in the "Message text" field in table view in the Alarm Logging editor
In the "Object properties" dialog box for the message concerned (pop-up menu >
"Properties") on the Text tab in the "Message text" or "Point of error" field
In the "Text Library" editor
In the "Object properties" dialog box for the message class/message type/message block

Standard texts
Standard texts are names for message classes, message types and message blocks, and the
system messages provided by WinCC in the languages installed with WinCC. These text

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records are default allocations of WinCC for the most popular message blocks, types and
classes. You can change these text records.

Input standard texts as follows:

"Object Properties" dialog:
Open the "Object properties" dialog by double clicking on the appropriate symbol. Only
input translations directly if the number of texts is low.
In the "Text Library" editor:
Input translations in the "Text Library" editor when configuring with non-Latin fonts, since
you can set the font from here by means of a centralized operation. In the case of large
numbers of texts it is advisable use the Text Library export and import function and translate
the texts externally.

Info texts
Help text is also regarded as user-specific. Help text is not stored in the Text Library and cannot
be configured for multiple languages. Enter the info text in the "Info text" input field, which you
open by double clicking on the "Info text" field in table view.

Basic procedure
1. Open the "Alarm Logging" editor.
2. Use menu command "View > Language..." to define the language that you prefer as the
configuration language.
3. Configure all the message system texts in your preferred language. Additional information
on configuring messages can be found in the WinCC information system in chapter
"Message system structure".

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4. Switch the configuration language with menu command "View > Language...".
5. Enter the text in the new language. Remember also to translate the standard texts.
Note
If you are configuring messages for multiple languages, be aware of the different text
lengths in the various languages. A French text is about 50% longer than the equivalent
German. Dimension the length of your messages accordingly.

Multiple Use of Message Texts

When a text is input, whether the text already exists in the Text Library is checked. If the text
is already there, the "Text Input Mode" dialog opens automatically.

Here, you can define whether the identical text is only stored once in the Text Library.
"Changes to the selected text apply to all identical text"
At other locations in the Alarm Logging, a cross-reference is made to the same Text-ID. If
you change a multiple use text, all instances of that text are changed at the same time.
"Change applies only to the selected text"
The text is stored in the Text Library with a new text ID. This is advantageous if you must
change this precise text again later on.
Note
When configuring in multiple languages, be aware that in the text input mode called
"Change applies only to the selected text" the modified text is reentered in the Text Library.
Existing translations are not taken into account.

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10.7

Reports for Multilingual Projects

10.7.1

Reports for Multilingual Projects

Principle
There are two types of report in WinCC:
Project documentation
The project documentation contains reports that are output during the configuration. These
reports contain overviews of the configured data. You can output the project documentation
in all runtime languages.
In the project documentation you document all multilingual texts you configured.
Logs that are output in runtime, such as regular printouts of measurement data. These
reports can be output in the respectively defined set runtime language.

10.7.2

Layout and layout file

Print Job and Layout

A print job just be stored for every report or every log in WinCC. Every print job is connected
with a layout. There are language-neutral and language-dependent layouts.

Layout and layout file

A language-neutral layout contains one layout file. Stored in language-neutral layout files \
\<Name of computer>\Project name\PRT".
A language-dependent layout contains several language-dependent layout files.

Layout files
The designation of language-dependent layout files contains a language ID. The languagespecific layout files are stored in language-specific folders in folder \\<Name of computer>
\Project name\PRT". The following table shows the language IDs and language folder with
languages that can be installed with WinCC.

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Language

Language ID in file names

Folder

German

DEU

PRT\DEU

English

ENU

PRT\ENU

French

FRA

PRT\FRA

Italian

ITA

PRT\ITA

Spanish

ESP

PRT\ESP

Chinese (simplified)

CHS

PRT\CHS

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Language

Language ID in file names

Folder

Chinese (Traditional)

CHT

PRT\CHT

Korean

KOR

PRT\KOR

Japanese

JPN

PRT\JPN

Language-neutral

PRT\

If you add other runtime languages in the "Layouts" pop-up menu, the language-specific folder
is created in the PRT folder in the project folder.

System print jobs

WinCC provides various system print jobs. The respective layout files are available in all
languages that can be installed with WinCC.
Do not delete these system print jobs and the respective layout files and do not rename them.
For the page layouts installed with WinCC, the layout files for the languages installed with
WinCC are installed in language-specific folders in the project folder.
Example:
In the European WinCC version, the following layout files belong to the print job
"Documentation_Alarm_logging":
Language

Layout file

German

@algcs_DEU.rpl

English

@algcs_ENU.rpl

French

@algcs_FRA.rpl

Italian

@algcs_ITA.rpl

Spanish

@algcs_ESP.rpl

In the Asian WinCC version, the following layout files belong to the print job
"Documentation_Alarm_logging":
Language

Layout file

English

@algcs_ENU.rpl

Chinese (simplified)

@algcs_CHS.rpl

Chinese (Traditional)

@algcs_CHT.rpl

Korean

@algcs_KOR.rpl

Japanese

@algcs_JPN.rpl

Language-dependent layout files

The layout files are only available if you have completed the following:
You have clicked on the "Report Designer" entry.
More information on creating and configuring logs and log layouts can be found in the WinCC
Information System in chapter "Documentation of configuration and runtime data".

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10.7.3

How to change or create layouts

Introduction
A layout is assigned to each print job. You edit page layouts in the page layout editor.
The layout files of the layout are saved in a folder structure in the WinCC Explorer.

When printing print jobs with language-dependent layouts, WinCC uses the layout file with the
language code of the current WinCC Runtime language.

Adding Additional Languages to System Print Jobs

If you want to print system print jobs in languages other than that installed with WinCC, you
must add the layout file of the new language to the system layout.

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Print Jobs with Your Own Layout

You can create print jobs with your own page layouts. The easiest thing to do is copy an existing
layout and change it based on your needs.
If you want to create print jobs with a language-neutral layout, you must create a layout file
and save it in the \\<Computer name>\Project name\PRT folder.
If you want to create print jobs with a language-dependent layout, you must create a layout
file for each Runtime language. You must save the language-dependent layout file in the
correct folder.

Procedure - Creating a language-neutral layout file

1. Click on the "Report Designer" entry.
The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" sub-entries are displayed in the data window.
2. Click on the "Layouts" entry.
The "Language-neutral" entry and one or more language-specific folders are located under
the "Layouts" entry.
3. Click on the "Language-neutral" entry and open the pop-up menu.
4. Select the "Open page layout editor" command in pop-up menu.
5. Create the language-neutral layout file and use "Save as" to save it in the \\<Computer
name>\Project name\PRT" folder.

Procedure - Adding a new Runtime language for a layout

Note
Display Dependent on System Locale
You can only add the language-specific folders that use the same codepage. If you need to
edit layout files in languages that need another codepage, you must set up the associated
system locale (operating system language) in the system control of your operating system.
1. Click on the "Report Designer" entry.
The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" sub-entries are displayed in the data window.
2. Select the "Layouts" entry and select the "Add language..." command in the pop-up menu.
3. Select the desired Runtime language.

Results
The folder of the new Runtime language is saved in the "\\<Computer name>\Project name
\PRT" folder. The folder of the new Runtime language is displayed in WinCC Explorer.

Procedure - Creating a language-dependent layout file

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Note
As soon as there is a language-dependent layout file for a layout, the layout is languageneutral. This does not depend on whether language-dependent layout files also exist.
If necessary, delete the language-neutral layout file is in the "\\<Computer name>\Project
name\PRT" folder.
Language-dependent layout files are saved in a language-specific folder in the "PRT" folder
of the project folder.
1. Click on the "Report Designer" entry.
The "Layouts" and "Print Jobs" sub-entries are displayed in the data window.
2. Double-click on the "Layouts" entry.
The "Language-neutral" entry and one or more language-specific folders are located under
the "Layouts" entry.
3. Open the folder of the desired language.
4. Create a new page layout or change an existing layout.
5. When saving the layout file, specify the language code, e.g. "DEU" or "ENU".
6. Save the language-dependent layout file in the corresponding language folder.
7. Also create the layout file for the rest of the Runtime languages.
.

10.7.4

How to change or create print jobs

Introduction
There must be a layout for every print job.

Procedure - Creating a print job

1. Click on "Print jobs" in the navigation window.
The available print jobs are listed in the data window.
2. Create a new page job or change an existing print job.

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3. From the "Layout:" selection field select the desired format.

4. Save the print job with "OK".

Results
The print job has been created.
If a language-neutral layout or a language-dependent layout that is not available in all Runtime
languages is used in the print job, this is displayed by the

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Identifying the Layout File

In the "Layout:" selection field the layouts are indicated by a symbol.
Icon

Description
Layout is language-dependent.
Layout files exist in all runtime languages. No language-neutral layout file exists.
Layout is language-dependent.
Layout files do not exist in all runtime languages. You can use the layout. If you change
to a runtime language, for which there is no layout file available, the English layout file
is used.
The layout is language-neutral. In runtime, the language-neutral layout is always active.
This does not depend on whether language-specific layout files exist for the selected
layout.

10.7.5

Creating Multilingual Project Documentation

Introduction
You use project documentation in WinCC to document your configured data. You can create
project documentation with data from the following editors:
WinCC Explorer
Graphics Designer
Alarm Logging
Tag Logging
Text library
User Administrator

Rules for Multilingual Project Documentation

The following rules apply to reports involving project documentation:
Headings and table names, properties of objects are printed in the current runtime language.
If the current runtime language is not a language installed with WinCC, the text is output in
English.
Configured texts are output in the runtime language that you have set up in the computer
properties.
If configured texts do not exist in English, the string "???" is output.

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Procedure
1. Exit runtime.
2. As the runtime language, set the language to the language in which you want to create the
project documentation.
All the languages you have created in the Text Library are available for use as runtime
languages.
3. Check the project documentation by selecting the menu command "View Project
Documentation" in the respective editor.
4. Output the project documentation by selecting the menu command "Print Project
Documentation".
More information on creating and configuring logs and log layouts can be found in the WinCC
Information System in chapter "Documentation of configuration and runtime data".

10.7.6

Multilingual logs in runtime

Introduction
In runtime you can output reports for process values, for instance regular measurement data
reports, curves or message reports. If your project runs in runtime in multiple languages, logs
in runtime will always be output in the current runtime language.
If a log is output in runtime, the layout file of the current runtime language is used.
Note
Layout file does not exist in current runtime language
If the layout file does not exist in the current runtime language, the English layout file is used.

Output of message sequence reports

Message sequence reports are always output in runtime in the language in which Runtime
was started. This also applies if e.g. the language was changed using the Set Language
function.
More information on creating and configuring logs and log layouts can be found in the WinCC
Information System in chapter "Documentation of configuration and runtime data".

10.8

Displaying Regional Date and Time

Principle
Regional date and time displays are language-dependent. In some countries the European
format is displayed (Day.Month.Year), and the American format (Year/Month/Day) is used in
others. You must also pay attention to this display format for multilingual objects.
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10.8 Displaying Regional Date and Time
Date and time displays are configured in Alarm Logging and in Graphics Designer.

Note
If the central date and time format according to ISO 8601 is entered in the "Computer
Properties" dialog, it will have an effect on the configurable time formats and on the display
of time during Runtime. The date display is unambiguously set by the ISO 8601 format. You
may find additional information on ISO 8601 format under "Working with Projects" > "Setting
Time in WinCC".

Alarm Logging
In Alarm Logging you can select the format of the date and time in the system blocks "Date"
and "Time", choosing between the European and American formats. The configured format
applies to the whole project and is not affected by changing the runtime language.
If you insert an Alarm Control in Graphics Designer, it accepts the date and time setting that
you configured in Alarm Logging.

Graphics Designer
The following objects, which you can configure in Graphics Designer, display the date and
time:
WinCC Alarm Control: The format of date and time is configured in Alarm Logging. The
configured setting applies to the entire project.
WinCC TrendControl, WinCC TableControl: The format of date and time may be configured
directly under Control Properties. The settings apply to the current picture.
D/A Clock: The WinCC ActiveX Control Digital/Analog Clock accepts the local computerspecific settings from your operating system settings. They cannot be changed in the
Control.
Note
When configuring a Chinese project, you must set China (Taiwan) as the input locale and
then adjust the date and time display format in the Control Panel of your operating system.

Report Designer:
In the Report Designer you can adapt the format of the date and time by setting the
corresponding parameters for the "Format" attribute in the "Object Properties" dialog of the
"Date/Time" system object in the "Miscellaneous" group. You can get an overview of the
possible parameters and settings from the Direct Help on this attribute.

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Display in Runtime
In runtime, the date and time displays are not changed in the event of a language change.
Therefore always configure for a primary language.
For further information, please refer to the online help for the Graphics Designer, Alarm Logging
and the Report Designer.

10.9

Languages in Runtime

10.9.1

Languages in Runtime

Runtime language
You set the language in which your project is displayed in Runtime centrally, in the computer
properties in WinCC Explorer.
You can select as the runtime language any language for which a language column has been
created in the Text Library.

Runtime Default Language

In the computer properties in WinCC Explorer, a runtime default language may be set which
applies to graphics objects.
If there is no translation available for a certain text, it is displayed in the set runtime default
language. If the text is not available in this language "???" is displayed.

Displaying Non-Translated Texts in Runtime

Non-translated texts of graphics objects are displayed in runtime as "???" as long as no
translated text exists in the runtime default language either.
If message system texts are not translated, nothing is displayed. By this means you can test
your project in runtime to check whether all texts are present.
If you have configured a change to a language that has not been created in the Text Library,
the previously set language continues to be displayed.

Changing languages in Runtime

When you have configured a project in multiple languages, configure an operating element
which will allow the operator to change the language in runtime. WinCC offers you several
preconfigured operating elements that you can use in your project. You can of course also use
dedicated picture objects for a language change, e.g. buttons.
If the new language originates from another linguistic area as the previous one, you must also
change the operating system language (system locale). This is necessary so that the character
set works with the proper code page. Restart your operating system after changing the
language.

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10.9.2

How to Set the Runtime Computer Starting Configuration

Requirements
You can only select languages as runtime languages if they have been created in the Text
Library.

Procedure
1. In WinCC Explorer, select "Computer" with the right mouse button and select "Properties"
in the pop-up menu.
2. Select the required computer from the list (for multi-user projects only) and click the
"Properties" button.
3. In the "Computer Properties" dialog, select the Parameters tab.
4. In the "Language Setting at Runtime" field, select the language in which to start the project
in runtime.

In the "Default Language at Runtime" field, select the language in which to display texts
from graphics objects instead. The texts will be displayed in this Runtime default language,
if translations into the language set in "Language Setting at Runtime" do not exist.
5. Confirm your settings with "OK".

Results
In runtime, the project will be started in the set language. Non-translated texts of graphics
objects are displayed as "???" as long as no translated text exists in the runtime default
language either.
If message system texts are not translated, nothing is displayed.

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10.9.3

Configuring Language Changes

Introduction
You can configure language changes within operating elements yourself, or use preconfigured
WinCC objects for changing languages.
The following preconfigured WinCC objects are available:
Buttons for each WinCC language for operating using mouse or finger (touch screen
operation).
Hot key symbols for each WinCC language for operating with the keyboard.
Radio box lists for changing between two or all available WinCC languages.
Drag & drop WinCC objects for changing languages into your picture from the WinCC library
("Operation" group, "Language Change" subgroup).

If you are configuring a language change in a picture object and decide not to use any of the
preconfigured WinCC objects, the following picture objects are recommended:
A button for changing between two languages.
If you use a button, also configure a button with which the operator can switch the language
back again. By using a toggle function, you can change to a language and back with just
one button.
An input/output field in which the operator inputs the language directly. This solution
requires script programming.
Radio buttons or check boxes for selecting a language. This solution requires script
programming.
The following section contains an example to show you how you can configure a language
change on a single button.

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Requirement
Always configure a change to a language for which texts have already been configured. If
these texts are not available during Runtime, graphics objects will display "???" after the
language change as long as no translated text is available in the runtime default language
either. If message system texts are not translated, nothing is displayed.
Language changes must always have a target language that has been created in the Text
Library. If the target language is not present, the language change has no effect and the
previously set language continues to be displayed.

Procedure
1. In the Graphics Designer open the picture in which you wish to configure a language change.
2. Configure a button.
3. Double-click the "Language Change" Wizard in the Dynamic Wizard window.
The Dynamic Wizard for changing languages appears.
4. Click "Continue" to move on from the opening screen.
5. In the "Select Trigger" dialog, select a trigger for the language change, e.g. Mouse Action.
6. In the "Set Options" dialog, select the language to which you want to change.
The initial language is always the current runtime language or the current project language
respectively.
7. Click "Continue" to view your chosen options, and click "Finish" to finish configuring.

Results
If operator clicks the button in runtime, the language is changed from the current runtime
language to the language you specified.

10.10

Example of Configuration

10.10.1

Example of Configuration

Overview
The following example shows you how to create a small multilingual project in a few steps:
You configure a graphic object in multiple languages.
You configure a language change.
You run the project and change the language in runtime.

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See also
Example: How to translate the text records in different linguistic regions (Page1807)

10.10.2

Example: How to Configure a Multilingual Graphic Object

Introduction
In the following section you configure a button for the "End Runtime" function with labels in
English, French and Italian.

Procedure
1. Open the Graphics Designer.
2. Create a new picture for the example, e.g. "language.pdl". In a project you position the
language change as a rule on the starting page.
3. Select the menu command "View > Language", and select from the list of available
languages "English (USA)".
4. Create a button from the group of Windows objects in the Object Palette.
5. After creating this, the Configuration dialog is opened. In the Configuration dialog, input the
button label in English (e.g. "End Runtime").
6. Input a font such as Arial Black and click OK to close the dialogs.

7. Use the appropriate Dynamic Wizard to load the button with the "End Runtime" function.

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8. Select the menu command "View > Language", and select from the list of available
languages "French (France)". After a language change "???" is displayed on the button
instead of the English text, since the French text does not yet exist.
9. Open the "Object Properties" dialog box of the button using the pop-up menu command
"Properties".
10.On the Properties tab, double-click the "Text" field in the "Font" group and enter the text in
French.

11.For the French display select another font, e.g. Courier New Bold. Make sure that you
always configure all entries for a language in the same font.
12.Now change the language to Italian and configure the Italian text ("Finire Runtime") in the
same way.
13.Save your picture.

Results
When you change the project language in the Graphics Designer between English, French
and Italian, the text is displayed on the button in the current project language in each case.

10.10.3

Example: How to Configure Language Changes

Introduction
Below you configure a language change with which you can change between English, French
and Italian in runtime.

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Requirement
You must have configured the button as described under "Example": "Configuring a
Multilingual Graphic Object".

Procedure
Note
In the following example you configure a Language change by means of an object from the
WinCC library. These objects are already preconfigured and ready for use. If you wish to
create a dedicated operating element for changing languages, select the "Language Change"
Dynamic Wizard.
1. Open the picture "languages.pdl".
2. Click the
"Library".

button to open the WinCC library or select the menu command "View" >

3. In the Global Library, open the folder "Operation" > "Language Change".

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4. Select the object "Change all Languages" and drag & drop it into your picture. The WinCC
Library object automatically changes the picture's label to the current project language, in
this case Italian.

5. Save your picture.

10.10.4

Example: How to Change Language in Runtime

Introduction
In the following section you execute your example project in runtime.

Requirement
You have configured the button and the language change as described under "Example":
"Configuring Multilingual Graphic Object" and "Example": "Configuring Language Change".

Procedure
Note
Before starting runtime, you must go to the Text Library and create the languages to be used.
The texts of the pictures are not stored in the Text Library. A language must, however, be
created in the Text Library so that it may be selected as runtime language.

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1. Open the WinCC Text Library.
2. Check whether the language you want to use as runtime language (English, Italian, or
French) is created. Your project starts in the runtime language.
3. If the runtime language is missing, create this language by using the menu command
"Tools" > "Add Language". In the following example, Italian will be used as the runtime
language.

4. Close the Text Library.

5. In WinCC Explorer, mark the computer and use the pop-up menu command "Properties"
to open the "Object Properties" dialog.
6. Click the Parameter tab.

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7. Select the runtime language in the "Language Setting at Runtime" field, such as "Italian"
and select as runtime default language under "Default Language at Runtime", such as
"English". Close the dialog by clicking OK.

8. Open the picture "language.pdl" in the Graphics Designer.

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9. Click
to start the picture in runtime. The picture starts in the set runtime language, which
is Italian.

10.Change the language to one of the configured languages (English or French):

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11.For demonstration purposes change to a language that is in the Text Library but in which
you have not yet configured any text for the button, e.g. German.

12.For demonstration purposes change the language back to English, and then to a language
that is neither configured nor created in the Text Library, e.g. Spanish. As the language is
not available in the Text Library, the language is not changed. The previously set language,
in this case English, is kept:

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10.10.5

Example: How to translate the text records in different linguistic regions

General Procedure
If you are translating to a language that originates from a different linguistic region, the
respective system locale must be defined in the control panel of your operating system.
When translating the text records in other linguistic regions, you must therefore consider the
settings for your computer.
The following example shows how you translate from English to Chinese (Traditional).
The example assumes that the text exists in English.

Procedure
1. Export the English text records with the Text Distributor. In the "File prefix:" field, enter
"ENU_CHT".
2. Set the system locale for Chinese in the control panel of your computer.
The Input Method Editor (IME) is available in Windows for configuring Asian text.
3. Restart the operating system.
4. Open file "ENU_CHT_Languages.csv".
5. Expand the file by the language Chinese. Enter 1028 in the column "Language ID". In
column "FontName", enter "Ming Lui". Change the other parameters for the font if
necessary.
6. Save file "ENU_CHT_Languages.csv".
7. Open one of the files with the exported text records of the Text Library.
Create another column for Chinese in the file.
Write the text "Chinese" in every object block in line "ID" in the new column.
Enter the correct translation for every Text ID in the Chinese column.
Save the file as a CSV file again.
Repeat these steps for all files with exported text records of the Text Library.
8. Open file "ENU_CHT_GraphicsDesigner.csv" or one of the picture files.
For every line that begins with "Object":
Enter the following text records in the next free cells: "Chinese", "Chinese FontName",
"Chinese FontSize", "Chinese FontBold", "Chinese FontItalic", "ChineseFontUnderline".
Change the entries in column "Chinese FontName" to "Ming Lui" and the other properties
as desired.
Enter the translated text in column "Chinese".
Save the file.
If you have individual picture files, repeat these steps for every file.
9. Start WinCC.
10.Start the Text Distributor.

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10.10 Example of Configuration
11.Change to the "Import text" tab.
12.Select Chinese (Traditional) under "Select language".
13.Start the import with the "Import text" button.

Results
The Chinese text records are available in the WinCC project. The text records can be displayed
in the configuration and in runtime.

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11

Resources

11.1

"User Adminstrator" Editor

11

Contents
The User Administrator editor is used to set up and maintain a user administration system. In
the User Administrator it is possible to set up and maintain access authorizations for WinCC
functions and WinCC users. Further functions, such as the time-limited login or login by means
of key-operated switch or chipcard, can be assigned to a user in the User Administrator.
This section shows you how to do the following:
add and maintain WinCC users
add WinCC access rights in the authorizations and how to assign these access rights to
the users
set up an automatic logout for a user
use the "Tag Login" function to log in a user using a tag value, e.g. by means of a keyoperated switch
configure the system so that users must log in by means of a chipcard.
use SIMATIC Logon jointly with WinCC

11.2

Setting up user administration

Functional Principle
The User Administrator editor is used to set up a user administration system. The editor is
used to assign and check authorizations which allow users to access the individual editors of
the configuration system and to access the functions in Runtime. Access rights to WinCC
functions known as authorizations are assigned in the User Administrator. These
authorizations can be assigned to individual users or to user groups. Authorizations can also
be assigned in Runtime.
When a user logs on to the system, the User Administrator checks whether the user is
registered. If the user is not registered, he has no authorizations whatsoever. This means that
he cannot call up or view data, or perform control operations.
If a registered user calls up a function protected by access authorization, the User Administrator
checks whether the user has the appropriate authorization to permit this. If not, the User
Administrator denies access to the desired functionality.

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The User Administrator also provides the configuration functions for the "Tag Login" function
which allows a user to log on to the workstation by means of a tag value which is set using a
key-operated switch, for example. The automatic logout of a user after a certain time is also
configured in the User Administrator.
If the WinCC "Chipcard" option is installed, the User Administrator provides functions for
maintaining chipcards.
You have the choice between 2 options of user administration:
WinCC logon
SIMATIC logon
This manual essentially describes the "WinCC Logon" option. More detailed information on
the "SIMATIC Logon" option may be found in the respective chapters.

Restrictions in the User Administration System

Object

Maximum number

Authorizations

999

Users

128

User groups

128

Ranges

256

See also
Structure of the User Administrator (Page1811)
Tasks of the User Administrator (Page1810)

11.3

Tasks of the User Administrator

Introduction
The User Administrator is divided into two components for assigning and maintaining user
authorizations.
Configuration system
Runtime system

Configuration system
Users and authorizations are maintained in the User Administrator configuration system. Here
new users are registered, passwords are assigned, authorizations are managed in a table,
and linkage to SIMATIC Logon is executed.

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Runtime system
The principal task of the User Administrator Runtime system is to monitor the system logins
and access authorizations.

11.4

Elements of User Administrator

11.4.1

Structure of the User Administrator

Introduction
The user interface of the User Administrator editor consists of:
Menu bar
toolbar
Multi-segment project window
and the status bar

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11.4.2

"File" Menu

Introduction
Functions for project documentation and file management are combined in this menu.

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Printing Project Documentation

Use the "Print Project Documentation" command to print the configured user administration
data on the set printer. The page layout "@UACS.RPL", which can be modified with the Report
Designer, is used as a template for the printout.
The printed data is dependent on the page layout used.

Viewing Project Documentation

The command "Project Documentation View" command is used to obtain a preview of the
project documentation.

Project Documentation Setup

The "Project Documentation - Setup" command is used to configure the printer and page layout
to be used.
Note
For more information, refer to chapter "Working with WinCC" in the configuration and Runtime
data documentation.

11.4.3

"User" Menu

11.4.3.1

"User" Menu

Introduction
The "User" menu contains all items needed to set up new users or groups. You can group
users that have or will receive the same authorizations. Those users receive the same
authorizations as the rest of the group. This way, you can avoid having to assign the same
authorizations within a group manually.

See also
Deleting Users/Groups (Page1816)
Web Options (Page1817)
Changing Password (Page1816)
Adding Groups (Page1815)
Setting Up Users (Page1814)

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11.4.3.2

Setting Up Users

Introduction
Use the "Add User" menu item in the "User" menu to add a new user to the selected group.

Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the group to which you want to add a new user.
2. Select "Add User" in the "User" menu or the associated pop-up menu. The "Establish New
User" dialog is displayed.

3. Enter the login name in the "Login" field.

4. Enter the new password in the "Password" field. To confirm, re-enter the new password in
the "Verify Password" field.
5. Select the "Copy Group Settings Also" check box if the authorizations for the group in which
you have added the new user are also to apply to the new user.
6. Click "OK" to close the dialog.
7. Assign the desired authorizations to the new user.

Note
A user name can only be assigned once.

11.4.3.3

Copying Users

Introduction
Use the "Copy User" menu item in the "User" menu to copy the selected user with all associated
settings.

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Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the group to which you want to add a new user.
Please select in this group a user to be copied.
2. Select "Add User" in the "User" menu or the associated pop-up menu. The "Copy User ..."
dialog is displayed.

3. Enter the login name in the "Login" field.

4. Enter the new password in the "Password" field. To confirm, re-enter the new password in
the "Verify Password" field.
5. Click "OK" to close the dialog.
6. Assign the desired authorizations to the new user.

Note
A user name can only be assigned once.

11.4.3.4

Adding Groups

Introduction
Use the "Add Group" menu item in the "User" menu to add a new group. There are no
subgroups.

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Procedure
1. Select "Add Group" in the "User" menu or the associated context menu. A new group is
created in the project navigation window. A text window with cursor appears next to the
group icon.

2. Enter the name of the new group and then press the ENTER key.
3. Assign the desired authorizations to the new group.

Note
A group name can only be assigned once.

11.4.3.5

Deleting Users/Groups

Introduction
Use the "Delete User/Group" menu item to delete the selected user or group.

Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the user or group to be deleted.
2. Select "Delete" in the "User" menu or the associated pop-up menu. A dialog appears in
which you must confirm the deletion procedure.
3. Confirm by clicking the "OK" button.

11.4.3.6

Changing Password

Introduction
Use the "Change Password" menu item in the "User" menu to assign a new password to the
selected user. The password must be between 6 and 24 characters in length.

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Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the user to whom you want to assign a new
password.
2. Select "Change Password" in the "User" menu or the associated context menu. The
"Change Password" dialog is displayed.

3. Enter the old password in the "Password" field.

4. Enter the new password in the "New Password" field. To confirm, re-enter the new password
in the "Verify Password" field.
5. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

Note
The abbreviated login name of the user is shown in the dialog (max. 22 characters).

11.4.3.7

Web Options

Introduction
Select this menu item to set the "Web Navigator" check box in the table window and to display
the "Web Options" area.
The web options are described in more detail under "Table window".

See also
Table Window (Page1827)

11.4.3.8

How to Change the Name of a User or Group

Introduction
You can change the name of a user or a group. Changing the name does not affect the
password for the user or group.

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Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the user to whom you want to assign a new name.
2. Click the left mouse button on the user name. The name now appears in a text window with
cursor.
3. Enter the new name.
4. Confirm the new name by pressing the ENTER key.

Note
The user or group name can only be assigned once.

11.4.4

"Table" Menu

11.4.4.1

"Table" Menu

Introduction
Use the "Table" menu to change or expand the user rights in the table window. It is not possible
to delete the "User Administration" authorization. It is permanently set for members of the
"Administrator" group.

See also
Plant-Specific Authorizations (Page1819)
Deleting Authorizations (Page1819)
Inserting Authorization (Page1818)

11.4.4.2

Inserting Authorization

Introduction
Use the "Insert Authorization" command to insert a line with a new authorization into the table
of the table window.

Procedure
1. From the "Table" menu, select the "Insert Authorization" entry. The "Insert Line" dialog is
displayed.
2. In the dialog, enter the line number of the new authorization. By default the field contains
the next free number.

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3. Click "OK" to close the dialog.
4. Double-click the "Function" column in the new line and enter the name of the new
authorization.
The authorization description can have a maximum length of 70 characters.
5. Confirm the new name by pressing the ENTER key.
6. Assign the new authorization to the desired users.

Note
A new authorization can be assigned to all users and not only to the user which was selected
when the authorization was created.

11.4.4.3

Deleting Authorizations

Introduction
Use this command to delete a line in the table of authorizations.
Authorizations can only be deleted in the configuration system.

Procedure
1. In the table window, mark the line containing the authorization to be deleted.
2. From the "Table" menu, select the "Delete Authorization" entry. A dialog appears in which
you must confirm the deletion procedure.
3. Confirm by clicking the "OK" button.

Note
The system does not allow certain authorizations to be deleted.
Deleted authorizations are lost for all registered users.

11.4.4.4

Plant-Specific Authorizations

Introduction
Using the "Plant-specific authorization" command, you can specify for LTO-/PCS7 projects if
a function should be enabled for the entire device or only for individual areas.

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Procedure
1. In the table window, activate the function whose settings you would like to change.
2. From the "Table" menu, select the "Plant-Specific Authorization" entry. The changed setting
for the selected function takes effect immediately.
3. Enable the selected function for the entire device or die individual areas, respectively.

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Note
Functions where enabling for individual areas would not be meaningful cannot be enabled
for individual areas. For example, the function "System Change" can only be enabled for the
entire device.
If you are not working with an LTO-/PCS7 project, the entry "Device-specific authorization"
is disabled in the "Table" menu.

11.4.5

"Chipcard" Menu

Introduction
This menu contains functions for the "Chipcard" option.
The menu can only be activated if the WinCC "Chipcard" option is installed and the WinCC
project is not in Runtime.
The menu is described under "Extended Chipcard Menu".
Note
If you activate the "SIMATIC Logon" option, the "Chipcard" menu is disabled.

See also
"Chipcard" Menu Extension (Page1833)

11.4.6

"AddOns" Menu

11.4.6.1

"AddOns" Menu

Introduction
This menu contains additional functions.

See also
Tag Login (Page1823)

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11.4.6.2

Tag Login

Introduction
The "Tag Login" function assigns a tag value to a certain user. This user can then log on to a
workstation in Runtime by setting the tag value, e.g. by means of a key-operated switch.
This function is configured by following the steps below:
1. Assign an operating station to a configured tag ("Assignment Computer - Tag" dialog).
2. Determine the minimum and maximum values of the value range which is to be used for
the "Tag Login" function ("Configuration" dialog).
3. Assign a certain tag value to a certain user ("Assignment User - Value" dialog).
On completion of his work, the user can log out again by setting the tag value to a configurable
logout value.
If a user is logged on at the system by means of "Tag Login", it is not possible to log on at the
same computer using the user dialog.
Note
If you have selected the "SIMATIC Logon" option, the function "Tag Login" must not be used.

See also
Assignment User - Value (Page1825)
Configuration (Page1824)
Assignment Computer - Tag (Page1823)

11.4.6.3

Assignment Computer - Tag

Introduction
Select the "Assign Computer" menu item to open a dialog in which a computer for the project
can be assigned to a configured tag.
Each computer can be assigned to a different tag or all computers can be assigned to the
same tag.
The used tag must be "binary" or 8, 16 or 32 bit.

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Name

Description

"Computer"
field

Used to select a computer.

All computers of the project are listed.

"Tag" field

Here a tag name can be entered directly or selected in the tag selection dialog.

See also
Assignment User - Value (Page1825)
Configuration (Page1824)
Tag Login (Page1823)

11.4.6.4

Configuration

Introduction
Select the "Configuration..." menu item to open a dialog in which a value range can be defined.
A tag value within this range can be assigned to a user in the "Assigning User to Value" dialog.

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Name

Description

"Minimum Value" field

Defines the minimum tag value.

Value range: 0 - 32767

"Maximum Value" field

Defines the maximum tag value.

The entered value must be greater than the minimum value.
Value range: 1 - 32768

See also
Assignment User - Value (Page1825)
Assignment Computer - Tag (Page1823)
Tag Login (Page1823)

11.4.6.5

Assignment User - Value

Introduction
Select the "User Assignment..." menu item to open a dialog in which a tag value is assigned
to a certain user.
If a user was already selected in the User Administrator before the dialog was launched, the
associated assignment is displayed in the dialog.

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Name

Description

"Value" field

Serves to select a value displayed in a table.

The available tag values are determined by the settings in the "Configuration"
dialog.

"User" field

A user created in the User Administrator can be selected here.

"Assign" button

When a selection has been made in the "Value" and "User" fields, this button
assigns the user to the value and displays the assignment in the table.

"Delete" button

Deletes an assignment selected in the table.

"Value - User" table Shows the selectable tag values ("Configuration" dialog) and the existing
assignments to the users.

Note
Each user can only be assigned to one tag value.
A "User" in the User Administrator can also represent a group of users or a function, e.g.
"Maintenance" or "Troubleshooting".

See also
Tag Login (Page1823)
Configuration (Page1824)
Assignment Computer - Tag (Page1823)

11.4.7

Toolbar

Introduction
The symbols in the toolbar allow you to perform actions more quickly. You do not have to make
several selections through the menus until you reach the required function.
Icon

Description
"User" "Add User"
"Group" "Add Group"
"User" "Copy User"
"User" "Delete User/Group"
"User" "Change Password"
"What's This?"
"Web Navigator"

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11.4.8

The Project Window

11.4.8.1

The Project Window

Introduction
The user administration data is displayed in the project window. The window consists of:
the navigation window (left)
and the multi-segment table window (right).

11.4.8.2

Navigation Window

Navigation Window
The navigation window contains a tree structure showing the configured groups and the
associated registered users. The selected user name is displayed in the field above the
navigation window. The "User" menu can be opened as a context menu for the selected user
or user group.

11.4.8.3

Table Window

Introduction
In the table window, the login name and the associated settings are displayed for the selected
user and group.

"Login only via chip card" check box

If a user is to be able to log in by means of his chipcard only, this can be set by activating the
"Login only via chip card" check box.
Note
The "Login only via chip card" check box is displayed if the WinCC "Chipcard" option has
been installed. A chip card reader does not have to be connected to the configuration
computer. As a result, it is possible to set up the "Chipcard" function and use it on other
WinCC computers without a card reader needing to be available during configuration.

If you have selected the "SIMATIC Logon" option, the "Login only via chip card" check box
is deactivated.

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"Automatic Logout" Area

If the automatic logout function is to be activated for the selected user, then set the duration
and type of monitoring in this area. The automatic logout prevents unauthorized persons having
unlimited access to the system.
If you enter a "0" in the entry field for the period until an automatic logout, the function is
deactivated. The user remains logged in until the system is shut down or a different user logs
in.
If you activate the "Absolute time" option, the configured time for the automatic logout begins
to run down when the user logs in, regardless of whether control operations are performed by
the user during this time.
If the "Idle Time" option is activated, the configured time begins to run down from the point at
which the user last performed a keyboard or mouse operation. The user is automatically logged
out after this pause.

"SIMATIC Logon" check box

If the box is checked, the user administration "SIMATIC Logon" is used instead of "WinCC
Logon". Information on the "SIMATIC Logon" option may be found in chapter "Option SIMATIC
Logon".

"WebNavigator" Check Box and "Web Options" Area

If the box is checked, the "Web Options" area is displayed. In this area, the settings for the
start picture and language are configured and then applied if the user dials into the WinCC
project from the web. Only pictures that were published via WebNavigator can be selected as
the start picture.
The check box can also be activated using the "WebNavigator" button in the toolbar.

Authorizations Table
The lower part of the table window shows the configured authorizations. Each line contains
one authorization.
The number of displayed authorizations depends on the installed options, e.g. the "Basic
Process Control" option.
Authorizations with the numbers 1000 - 1099 are system authorizations which cannot be set,
modified, or deleted by the user.
Authorization 1 "User Administration" is set by default for users in the "Administrator" group.
This authorization cannot be deleted.
In the "Unlock" column, an authorization can be assigned to the selected user by doubleclicking in the desired line.
Each authorization must be assigned separately. Multiple authorizations can only be
transferred according to the group assignment when you add a new user to a group. The table
can be edited by selecting the "Table" menu item.

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11.4.8.4

How to Set an Automatic Logout for a User

Introduction
If the "Automatic Logout" function is set, a logged-in user can be logged out automatically after
a definable time. This prevents unauthorized persons from having unlimited access to the
system following control operations by the currently logged-in user.
If you enter a "0" in the entry field for the period until an automatic logout, the function is
deactivated. The user remains logged in until the system is shut down or a different user logs
in.
If you activate the "Absolute time" option, the configured time for the automatic logout begins
to run down when the user logs in, regardless of whether control operations are performed by
the user during this time.
If the "Idle Time" option is activated, the configured time begins to run down from the point at
which the user last performed a keyboard or mouse operation. The user is automatically logged
out after this pause.

Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the group or user for which you want to configure
the "Automatic Logout" function.
2. In the input field in the "Automatic Logout" section of the table window, enter the time until
automatic logout in minutes after which the system is no longer to permit process control
and the user is to be logged out.
3. The "Absolute Time" option is set by default. Activate the "Idle Time" option if the time after
which the automatic logout is to be performed is to begin running down from the point at
which the user last performed a keyboard or mouse operation.

Note
If you have selected the "SIMATIC Logon" option, the function "Automatic Logout" can only
be set for the group. This setting is automatically applied to each user of this group.

11.4.8.5

How to Activate the "Login Only Via Chipcard" Function for a User

Introduction
If a user is to be able to log in using his chipcard only, this can be set in the User Administrator
by activating the "Login Only Via Chipcard" function.

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Note
The "Login Only Via Chipcard" check box is displayed if the WinCC "Chipcard" option has
been installed. In addition, the "Terminal Active" option must also be activated in the "WinCC
Chipcard Terminal" component in the Control Panels of Windows.
A chipcard reader does not have to be connected to the configuration computer. As a result,
it is possible to set up the "Chipcard" function and use it on other WinCC computers without
a card reader needing to be available during configuration.

Procedure
1. In the project navigation window, select the user for which the "Login Only Via Chipcard"
function is to be activated.
2. In the table window, activate the "Login Only Via Chipcard" check box.

See also
"Chipcard" Menu Extension (Page1833)

11.4.9

Status bar

Introduction
The left side of the status bar contains general program information.
The fields on the right side provide information on keyboard settings.

11.5

Procedure in User Administration

11.5.1

Overview of Configuring a User Administration

Introduction
The following basic steps are necessary to set up a user administration system:
1. Set up the required groups.
2. Select the appropriate authorizations for the groups.

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3. Add the users and assign the respective login names and passwords. The properties of
the group can be copied when new users are added. In this case, it is advisable to assign
the users to groups with authorizations which you want the users to have.
4. Select the specific authorizations for the various users. It is also possible to set a time here
after which the system is to automatically log out the user in order to protect the system
from unauthorized entries. It can also be determined whether the user should be able to
log in by means of the chipcard only and which user-specific settings apply if the user should
dial into the system from the web.
The data is applied without being stored.

11.5.2

Calling an Authorization into Other Editors

Introduction
If you want to assign an authorization in a different editor, e.g. an attribute of an object, the
following dialog appears.

The authorizations are displayed in numerical order. If you select an authorization here, the
function or control operation is unlocked in Runtime only for users who have the appropriate
authorization.
You can open the dialog in various ways, e.g. by means of the "Authorization" attribute in the
properties for an option button in the Graphics Designer.

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11.5.3

Operation in Runtime

Introduction
The following steps are necessary for a user to log on in Runtime:
1. Start the Runtime system.
2. Now open the password dialog using the shortcut keys for "Login" defined in the WinCC
Explorer (Project Properties - Hotkey tab).
3. Enter your login name and the password in the dialog.
The system checks the authorizations you have been assigned with those of the editors and
the installed components. If the authorizations match, the system unlocks the editors and
components so that they can be used.
Note
If a large number of authorizations have been assigned to a user, i.e. around the maximum
number of 999 authorizations per user, several minutes may be required to log in the user.

11.6

WinCC Options for Administrators

11.6.1

WinCC Options for Administrators

Introduction
Installing WinCC together with the options extends the functionality of the Administrator.
The OS Project Editor in the "Basic Process Control" option changes the number and
function of the authorizations in the table window. The authorizations then correspond to
the PCS7 user hierarchies.
The "Chipcard" option inserts the "Chipcard" item together with the associated functions in
the menu bar and the "Login Only Via Chipcard" check box can then be activated in the
table window.

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11.6.2

"Chipcard" Menu Extension

11.6.2.1

"Chipcard" Menu Extension

Introduction
The User Administrator provides functions for controlling a chipcard reader. You can write to
and check chipcards in the configuration system. The "Chipcard" menu is deactivated in
Runtime.

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Requirement
The following requirements must be met before WinCC with the "Chipcard" option can be used:
the "Chipcard" option must be installed and
an interface (e.g. COM1 or COM2) must be assigned to the chipcard reader.
When these requirements have been met, the "Chipcard" menu becomes available and the
"Login Only Via Chipcard" check box is displayed in the table window.
Note
No Windows Administrator rights are required to write to and check chipcards in the
configuration system or to use the chipcards in Runtime.
To be able to write to and read a chipcard, the hardware connection between the chipcard
reader and computer must be connected before the computer is started.

See also
How to Check a Chipcard (Page1836)
How to Write to a Chipcard (Page1835)
How to Set the Interface for the Chipcard Reader (Page1834)

11.6.2.2

How to Set the Interface for the Chipcard Reader

Introduction
An interface on the WinCC computer must be assigned before a chipcard reader/writer can
be used in WinCC.
An interface must also be assigned to activate the "Chipcard" menu in the User Administrator.
Further requirements can be found under "Extended Chipcard menu".
If the User Administrator is opened again after the interface has been set, the "Chipcard" menu
is activated in the menu bar.
If the "Terminal Disabled" option button is activated in the "WinCC Chipcard Terminal
Configuration" dialog (Control Panels), the "Chipcard" menu is deactivated when the User
Administrator is opened again.
Note
The current Windows user must have administrator rights in Windows to be able to access
the "WinCC Chipcard Terminal Configuration" dialog.

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Procedure
1. Open the "WinCC Chipcard Terminal" icon in the Control Panels of Windows. The "WinCC
Chipcard Terminal Configuration" dialog appears.

2. Activate the "Terminal active" option button.

3. Select the desired interface in the "Connection" field.
4. Click "OK" to close the dialog.

11.6.2.3

How to Write to a Chipcard

Introduction
When a chipcard is written, all of the data on the card is deleted. The user (login name) and
the password are stored on the card.

Procedure
1. Select "Write To Chipcard" in the "Chipcard" menu. The "Write To Chipcard" dialog appears.

2. Select the desired user in the "Write to Chip Card for User" field.
3. Activate the "Additional Manual Password Also Required" check box if this condition is to
be applied when logging in Runtime.
4. Insert the chipcard into the chipcard reader.
5. Click the "Write To Chip Card" button. The User Administrator transfers the data to the
chipcard.
6. Close the dialog by clicking the "Close" button.

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Note
To be able to write to and read a chipcard, the hardware connection between the chipcard
reader and computer must be connected before the computer is started.

This menu option is only available, if WinCC is installed with the "Chipcard" option. Further
requirements can be found under "Extended Chipcard menu".

11.6.2.4

How to Check a Chipcard

Introduction
This function is used to read a chipcard. It allows the data on the chipcard to be checked if,
for example, the card has just been written or a reading error has occurred.
The login name stored on the card is displayed in the "User" field. If the login name already
exists in the User Administrator, the text "Card is valid" appears in the dialog. If the name does
not exist, the text "Card is invalid" is displayed.
If there is an error when reading the chipcard, it is noted in this dialog. No user name is provided.

Procedure
1. Insert the chipcard into the chipcard reader.
2. Select "Check Chip Card" in the "Chip Card" menu. The "Check Chip Card" dialog appears.

3. The result of the check is displayed.

4. Close the dialog by clicking the "Close" button.

Note
To be able to write to and read a chipcard, the hardware connection between the chipcard
reader and computer must be connected before the computer is started.

This menu option is only available, if WinCC is installed with the "Chipcard" option. Further
requirements can be found under "Extended Chipcard menu".

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11.6.3

Chipcard Reader in Runtime

Introduction
To log into WinCC, the user inserts his chipcard into the chipcard reader and the required data
is read out. If the chipcard is inserted, it is not possible to log on at the system manually. The
user remains logged on at the system until he removes the card from the chipcard reader. The
"Automatic Logout" function whereby the user is logged out automatically after a set time is
only possible in conjunction with chipcard operation.
Note
The "Chipcard" menu is deactivated in Runtime since the functions can only be used in the
configuration system.

11.6.4

Option SIMATIC logon

11.6.4.1

Option SIMATIC logon

Introduction
In systems monitored and controlled by process guidance systems, there are often specific
requirements for access to functions and system areas. Important requirements for validation
of systems are:
Avoiding unwanted access to system. This is facilitated by assigning respective access
authorization through user administration.
Documentation of operator access. This generates proof and archiving of important
operations.
The SIMATIC Logon option facilitates the certification of plants according to FDA 21 CFR Part
11. These demanding requirements were specified by the U.S. Department of FDA (Food and
Drug Administration).

Requirement
If you wish to use the option under WinCC, you must install the basic package "SIMATIC Logon
Service" on all involved computers.

Changing the Script Call "SIMATICLogon" in Project Function "passlogin.fct"

In all WinCC projects where the project function "passlogin.fct" had been used, starting with
WinCC V6.0 SP3, the call must be modified. Please replace in all scripts "SIMATICLogon (...)"
by "PASSLoginDialog (...)".

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Note
From WinCC V6.2 the use of SIMATIC Logon has been released for network systems with
clients without local project.
As soon as you activate the "SIMATIC Logon" option, the users inserted in "WinCC User
Administrator" are ignored. Only the settings of those groups whose names match those of
Windows Groups are important.
Detailed information on function and installation of the SIMATIC Logon Service may be found
in the respective current manual "SIMATIC Logon and Electronic Signature".

11.6.4.2

SIMATIC Logon service

Introduction
Access protection of "SIMATIC Logon Service" is based on mechanisms of the Windows
operating system. The following section summarizes what you need to watch for in Windows
settings.

Windows Settings for SIMATIC Logon Service

For the following steps you need:
Administrator knowledge for dealing with the operating system
Administrator authorization for Windows
"SIMATIC Logon Service" requires the following settings for flawless operation:
If you have configured a "Registration Server of SIMATIC Logon Group" as the SIMATIC
Logon work environment, you must enable access to this computer via the network.
If you have configured a "Windows Domain" as the SIMATIC Logon work environment, you
must enable authorization for "Read" and "Change Password" for authorized domain users.
If a single-user computer is used, no specific settings are necessary.
To use the following functionalities, you need to first perform the following settings:
In Windows Computer Administration you can enter for each user the "Complete Name"
under "Local Users and Groups". This name is used by applications for display and reports.
If logon processes are to be assessed, you must specify the desired settings in "Audit
Policy" of "Local Security Policy" in Windows:
- Monitoring Registration Events
- Monitoring Registration Attempts
Settings for user accounts may be specified in "Account Policies" of "Local Security Policy"
of Windows:
- Password guidelines: e.g., maximum password age, minimum password length
- Account lock guidelines

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Users of a Windows domain

NOTICE
Users of SIMATIC Logon must be direct members of a Windows group.
They must not be members of a subgroup of Windows groups.

Failure of SIMATIC Logon Server

If you work with a registration server for SIMATIC Logon Service, we recommend the following
measures for possible server failure:
Install all users with the necessary authorizations on a second computer, e.g., on the local
computer.
Select on the respective computer the option "Register to" from the "Configuring SIMATIC
Logon" dialog.

11.6.4.3

How to use the SIMATIC Log on Service with WinCC

Procedure
If you wish to use "SIMATIC Logon Service" with WinCC, we recommend the following
procedure:
1. Specify settings in Windows user administration.
2. Specify settings in WinCC user administration.
3. Configure visualization of logged-in user.
4. Configure registration dialog "SIMATIC Logon Service".

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Windows User Administration

The connection between Windows user administration and WinCC user administration is
facilitated through identical names within the group.

WinCC User Administration

In Windows, if you create a group "Group_Operator", you must create in WinCC User
Administrator a group "Group_Operator" of identical name and must assign the respective
authorizations:
1. Open WinCC project.
2. Open User Administrator using WinCC Explorer.

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3. Activate "SIMATIC Logon" option.
4. Create group(s).
5. Assign authorizations per groups.

Visualization of Logged-in User in RT

Visualization during WinCC projects
Inn WinCC projects, if you wish to display the logged-in user in a process picture or report,
you may use one of the two tags:

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Tag

Names in
WinCC user administration

Names in
Windows user administration

@CurrentUser

User ID

User Name

@CurrentUserName

User Name

Full Name

Depending on which of the two tags you use, either the user ID or the full user name of the
logged-in user are displayed.
Note
If you do not use the "SIMATIC Logon" option, the user ID of the logged-in user is entered in
both tags.

Visualization during LTO-/PCS7 projects

In LTO-/PCS7 projects, you may select in the project editor whether the full user name or the
user ID of the logged-in user are shown in the system summary display.

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"SIMATIC Logon Service" Login Dialog

In order to call the registration dialog "SIMATIC Logon Service" in WinCC RT, you may
configure any button with any picture in Graphics Designer.
Link the event "Mouse Click" with a C action. If you call the function "PASSLoginDialog" within
this C action, a click of the button opens the registration dialog.
Note
If you wish to use the function "PASSLoginDialog", the option "Basic Process Control" must
be installed.
If you are using SIMATIC Logon in PCS7-OS and LTO projects and wish to register using
the chip card, you must first perform the following setting:
Open the picture "@Welcome.PDL".
Customize the object properties under "Event/Picture-Object/Others/Select Picture" the
C-script by commenting out the "PASSLoginDialog (Screen);" line.
Save the "@Welcome.PDL" picture.

Upon entering user name, password and domain, the user obtains authorizations of the WinCC
group to which he is assigned via the respective Windows group.

11.6.4.4

How to configure an electronic signature

Introduction
You can use an electronic signature to make the execution of critical operation dependent on
the electronic signature of the user. A given action can only be carried out when the configured
user is authenticated with a password. If the user is not authorized or enters an incorrect
password, the action is not performed.
Successfully and aborted signing procedures are documented with a message.

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Runtime requirements
The basic package for the "SIMATIC Logon Service" is installed on all computers involved.
The "SIMATIC Logon" option is activated in the "User Administrator" dialog.
The user must be a direct member of a Windows group and the WinCC User Administration.

Configuring an electronic signature

You can configure an electronic signature for any event of WinCC objects. Example: Clicking
on a button should open a dialog for authenticating the operator.
To do this, use the CCESigDlg object for the dynamic reaction and call the "ShowDialog"
function.
Configure the desire action by evaluating the return value. For example, make the output
command dependent on the success of the authentication.
A message is created documenting the authentication in Runtime.

If you use the WinCC/Audit option, the messages of all authentication attempts are also written
in the Audit Trail database.

11.6.4.5

Example 1: Creating an electronic signature in a VBS action

Introduction
This program example shows you how to protect a process control against unauthorized
execution with an electronic signature. Calling the "ShowDialog" function opens a dialog in
which the configured user can be authenticated in WinCC Runtime. Make the output command
dependent on the success of the authentication.

Syntax of "ShowDialog" function

Expression.ShowDialog(User As String, DisplayedUser As String,
Domain As String, LangID As Long, Comment As String) Long

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Expression
Required. An expression that returns an object of the "CCEsigDlg.ESIG" type.

Parameter
Parameter

Description

User

User name that is used to authenticate the user.

DisplayedUser

Name of the user that is displayed in the "User name" field of the "SIMATIC Logon
Electronic Signature" dialog box.

Domain

Name of the computer that authenticates the user:

- Name of the computer that administers the users centrally (SIMATIC Logon
server)
- Name of the local computer
If a string is not specified for this parameter, the local computer is entered
automatically.

LangID

Identifier for the desired language variant of the dialog box:

1028 Chinese (traditional)
1031 German
1033 English
1034 Spanish
1036 French
1040 Italian
1041 Japanese
1042 Korean
2052 Chinese (Simplified)

Comment

Comment entered by the user.

Return values
Return value

Identifier

Description

IDOK

The user has been successfully authenticated.

IDCANCEL

The user has closed the dialog box using the "Cancel" button.

IDABORT

The user could not be authenticated even after repeating the logon
twice.

Example
Output of a dialog for authenticating the user (without forced comment, i.e. forcecomment=
false):

Sub
Dim
Dim
Dim

Set

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OnClick(ByVal Item)
myesig
mycomment
ret
myesig = CreateObject("CCEsigDlg.ESIG")

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'comment optional
myesig.forcecomment = false

ret = myesig.showDialog("winccadmin","winccadmin","SIMLOGSERV",1031,mycomment)

.
.
.

End Sub

When this VB script is executed in RT, a dialog for authenticating the user is displayed.

The input of a comment in the entry field is optional.

Configure different reactions to the mouse event of the WinCC object depending on the
transferred return value "ret".
A message is also generated with which the authentication or the authentication attempt is
documented.
Note
We recommend that the VBS action be protected against unauthorized modification and
viewing by a password.

11.6.4.6

Example 2: Creating an electronic signature in a C action

Introduction
This program example shows you how to protect a process control against unauthorized
execution with an electronic signature. Calling the "ShowDialog" function opens a dialog in
which the configured user can be authenticated in WinCC Runtime. Make the output command
dependent on the success of the authentication.
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Syntax of "ShowDialog" function

INT ShowDialog(char* lpszUserName, char* lpszDisplayedUserName, char*
lpszDomainName, int intLangID, variant* vtComment);

Parameter
lpszUserName
User name that is used to authenticate the user.

lpszDisplayedUserName
Name of the user that is displayed in the "User name" field of the "SIMATIC Logon Electronic
Signature" dialog box.

lpszDomainName
Name of the computer that authenticates the user:
- Name of the computer that administers the users centrally (SIMATIC Logon server)
- Name of the local computer
If a string is not specified for this parameter, the local computer is entered automatically.

intLangID
Identifier for the desired language variant of the dialog box:
1028 Chinese (traditional)
1031 German
1033 English
1034 Spanish
1036 French
1040 Italian
1041 Japanese
1042 Korean
2052 Chinese (Simplified)

vtComment
Comment entered by the user.

Return value
Return value = 1
The user has been successfully authenticated.

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Return value = 2
The user has closed the dialog box using the "Cancel" button.

Return value = 3
The user could not be authenticated even after repeating the logon twice.

Example
Output of a dialog for authenticating the user (with forced comment):

#include "apdefap.h"
void OnClick(char* lpszPictureName, char* lpszObjectName, char* lpszPropertyName)
{

int nRet = 0;

VARIANT vtComment;

__object* EsigDlg = __object_create("CCESigDlg.ESIG");

if (!EsigDlg)

{
printf("Failed to create Picture Object");
return;
}

nRet = EsigDlg->ShowDialog("winccadmin","winccadmin","SIMLOGSERV",1033 ,&vtComment);

__object_delete(EsigDlg);

.
.
.
.

When this C script is executed in Runtime, a dialog box for authenticating the user is displayed.

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In this program example, the entry of a comment is mandatory.

Configure different reactions to the mouse event of the WinCC object depending on the
transferred return value "nRet".
A message is also generated with which the authentication or the authentication attempt is
documented.
Note
We recommend that the C action be protected against unauthorized modification and viewing
by a password.

11.6.4.7

Notes re. Linking of WinCC/PCS7-OS

Authorization of Logged-In Users

Authorizations result from the group affiliation in User Administrator.
If the user can be authenticated, the user of SIMATIC Logon is automatically assigned to
the "Emergency_Operator" group.
If a user belongs to one or more Windows groups and one of those has been created in
User Administrator, the user is assigned the rights of that group.
If a user belongs to one or several Windows groups and one of those has been created in
User Administrator, the user is allotted all the rights of these groups.
Note
If a user belongs to multiple Windows groups, your configuration must ensure that there
are no conflict cases.
Example: One user belongs to multiple groups. Automatic logoff after 5 minutes has been
configured for one of them. However, if automatic logoff after 2 minutes has been
configured for the other groups, this will result in impossible situations.

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User "Administrator"
The user name "Administrator" is reserved by WinCC and may not be used by SIMATIC Logon.
Any registration with this Windows login fails. Rename the user name in Windows user
accounts or contact the system administrator.

Group "DefaultGroup"
In the configuration dialog of SIMATIC logon, you can activate the "Use following data without
explicit logon" in the General tab. If no user is logged into RT at a workstation, then the selected
user is automatically logged on in the "User" field. By default, the "Default User" is set from
the "DefaultGroup".
Note
The "DefaultUser" is a virtual user belonging to the "DefaultGroup". Consequently, you must
not set up this user in the Windows user administration system.
The assignment is made by matching the "DefaultGroup" name to a corresponding group in
the User Administrator.
So create a group in WinCC with the same name as was assigned to the "DefaultGroup" in
the Logon dialog. Then assign the desired authorizations to this group.

11.7

Overview of Authorizations

11.7.1

Default Authorizations

Introduction
When the User Administrator is opened for the first time, the table window contains certain
default authorizations.
The authorizations in the table can be deleted or modified, except for the "User Administration"
authorization.
Authorizations with a lower number are not contained in authorizations with higher numbers,
but instead each authorization functions independently.
A member of the "Administrator Group" always receives access to the "User Administration"
authorization.
The standard authorizations are assigned in the configuration system, but are only effective
in Runtime. This prevents a logged-in user from receiving unlimited access to all system areas
in Runtime.

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Note
The names of the authorizations indicate what kind of influence the corresponding
authorization should have, but not how you actually use them.
The authorizations are preset by WinCC as follows:

No. 1: User administration

This authorization grants the user access to the User Administration of WinCC.
If this authorization is set, the user can call up the User Administrator and make changes.

No. 2: Value input

This authorization enables the user to enter values manually, e.g. into I/O fields.

No. 3: Process controlling

This authorization enables the user to perform control operations, e.g. manual/automatic
switchover.

No. 4: Picture editing

This authorization enables the user to change pictures and picture elements (e.g. via ODK).

No. 5: Picture change

This authorization enables the user to trigger a picture change and thus open another
configured picture.

No. 6: Window selection

This authorization enables the user to change the application windows in Windows.

No. 7: Hard copy

This authorization enables the user to make a hardcopy of the current process picture.

No. 8: Confirming messages

This authorization enables the user to confirm messages.

No. 9: Locking messages

This authorization enables the user to lock messages.

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No. 10: Unlocking messages

This authorization enables the user to unlock (free) messages.

No. 11: Message editing

This authorization enables the user to change messages in Alarm Logging (e.g. via ODK).

No. 12: Starting archive

This authorization enables the user to start an archiving process.

No. 13: Stopping archive

This authorization enables the user to stop an archiving process.

No. 14: Archive value editing

This authorization enables the user to configure the evaluation process for the archive tags.

No. 15: Archive editing

This authorization enables the user to control or change the archiving process.

No. 16: Action editing

This authorization gives the user the right to execute and change scripts (e.g. via ODK).

No. 17: Project manager

This authorization grants the user access to the WinCC Explorer.

11.7.2

System authorizations

Introduction
System authorizations are generated automatically by the system and cannot be created,
modified or deleted by the user. The system authorizations can be assigned to a user just like
any other authorization.
The system authorizations are effective in the configuration system and in Runtime. In the
configuration system, this prevents a user who is not registered in a project from being granted
access to the project, e.g. a server project.
The authorizations mean:

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No. 1000: remote activation

If set, the user can start or stop the runtime for this project from a different computer.

No. 1001: Remote configuration

If this item is set, the user can configure and make changes to the project from a different
computer.

No. 1002: DataMonitor - Just monitor

If this item is set, the user can only open the project from a different computer; he cannot make
changes or perform control operations.

11.7.3

Basis Process Control Authorizations

Introduction
These user authorizations correspond to the user hierarchies from PCS7 and are available
after the wizard in the OS Project Editor ("Basic Process Control" option) has been activated.
Authorizations can be added and deleted or their names be changed in the configuration
system. Authorizations with a lower number are not contained in authorizations with higher
numbers, but instead each authorization functions independently.
The following preset authorizations cannot be deleted or changed:

No. 1: User administration

If this authorization is set, the user can call up the User Administrator and make changes.

No. 2: Authorization for area

If this authorization is set, the user can select pictures from the specified system areas.

No. 3: System change

If this authorization is set, the user is granted the right to make status changes, e.g. to
deactivate the runtime system.

No. 4: Monitoring
If this authorization is set, the user can monitor - but not control - the process, e.g. selection
of the batch visualization.

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No. 5: Process controlling

If this authorization is set, process controlling can be performed.

No. 6: Higher process controlling

If this authorization is set, the user is permitted to perform control operations which have
permanent effects on the process, e.g. modifying the limit values of a controller.

No. 7: Report system

No longer used by the system.

11.7.4

PCS7 System Authorizations

Introduction
System authorizations are generated automatically by the system and cannot be created,
modified or deleted by the user. The system authorizations can be assigned to a user just like
any other authorization.
The authorizations mean:

No. 1100: Highest process controlling

Used with PCS7 in combination with the Advanced Process Library only.

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12

Resources

12.1

Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager

12

Content
WinCC projects can be created and managed in STEP 7 within the framework of Totally
Integrated Automation. This results in connections between the AS configuration and WinCC
configuration. The advantages of this "WinCC in STEP 7 integration" are described in this
chapter.
The subjects covered in this chapter are:
Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in STEP 7
Transferring Tags and Texts to WinCC
Selection of STEP 7 Symbols
Diagnostic Support in the Event of Faults

12.2

Advantages and Prerequisites of Integration

Introduction
The integration of automation components has become the most important aspect of modern
automation systems. Both horizontal integration from the receipt of goods, to the production
process, and on to shipping, and vertical integration from the sensor to the business level are
intended to achieve enormous reductions in cost and increases in productivity.

Uniformity
However, such integration is only possible if all of the devices and systems associated with
the automation solution are implemented uniformly on a common technological basis.
This applies to the operating and monitoring systems used in automation solution such as,
SIMATIC WinCC.

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12.2 Advantages and Prerequisites of Integration

SIMATIC Manager
Integration is only complete if the automation components are configured and managed on a
common platform. Access to a common data management system makes configuration much
easier and allows processes to be automated.
The SIMATIC Manager of STEP 7 provides such a platform on which SIMATIC WinCC can
also be integrated.

Advantages of Integration
The configuration of SIMATIC WinCC in an integrated environment provides the following
advantages:
Simple transfer of tags and texts into the WinCC project
Direct access to STEP 7 symbols during process connection
Uniform message configuration
Loading the configuration data on the Runtime OS
Extended diagnostic support

Advantages of integration for redundant systems

Integration simplifies the administration of master and standby:
Inserting and Parameterizing Master and Standby
Configuring Master and Standby
Overall Loading of Master and Standby
Integration enables loading online changes in case of redundant system:
Load Online Changes is automatically activated after overall loading
Automatic validation of settings and pre-conditions with detailed error messages
Automatic cancellation while loading on redundant system if the initial load on standby has
failed

Notes on installation
If you wish to integrate WinCC in STEP7, you must implement an installation of WinCC as
well as an installation of SIMATIC STEP 7. For a new installation we recommend the following
sequence of installations:
Installation of SIMATIC STEP 7
User Defined Installation of WinCC
In the described sequence you may install the required WinCC components at the same time.
You may also install SIMATIC STEP 7 at any time thereafter. You might then have to install
individual WinCC components afterwards.

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12.2 Advantages and Prerequisites of Integration

Required Software Components

The following dialog shows the communications components to be activated for an integration
of WinCC in STEP 7. This applies to communications components:
SIMATIC Device Drivers
Object Manager
AS-OS Engineering
STEP7 Symbol Server

In addition you must activate the option Basic Process Control.

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If you wish to use a chip card reader, you must activate the option Chip Card during the
installation of SIMATIC STEP 7 and during the installation of WinCC.
Note
For the installation of SIMATIC STEP 7 and WinCC, please read the notes in the installation
manual.
Prior to implementing any WinCC-specific configurations in SIMATIC Manager, you must
ascertain that the language used in SIMATIC Manager is installed in WinCC as well.

Note
Starting with version V6.2, WinCC evaluates the project-related access protection that is used
to protect STEP 7 or PCS7 projects.
Independent of access protection:
WinCC Projects that are integrated in a STEP7/PCS7 project cannot be opened using an
ES where only WinCC has been installed. For that you also need STEP 7 or NCM PC Edition
of SIMATIC NET CD on the ES.
If project-related access protection has been activated for WinCC project, then you must also
enter the STEP 7 project password while opening the project.

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12.3

Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager

12.3.1

Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager

Introduction
The SIMATIC Manager can be used to organize and administrate all the components belonging
to the automation solution. Accessing these components in a common data management
system makes system configuration much easier and allows a number of configuration
processes to be automated.

WinCC projects as WinCC application or OS

You can create WinCC projects directly in the SIMATIC Manager. In this case, you have to
differentiate between the following storage options:
WinCC project as WinCC application within a PC station
WinCC project as operator station OS
When creating new projects, you should use WinCC applications. They have the following
advantages compared to the OS:
The PC station can be displayed and parameterized in the network configuration.
The interfaces and access point of the operator station are determined automatically.

OS reference
Using OS references offers the advantage of loading one WinCC project, the so called basis
OS, onto several target systems. One target system is attached to each basis OS as well as
for each individual reference.
The basis OS must have the following properties:
Object type OS in the STEP 7 project
Project type "Single-User" or "Multi User"
No redundant partner
The OS reference and the basis OS must be created in the STEP 7 sub-project.
After processing, you must transfer the project to the target system of basis OS along with all
the references. Select the "Download to CPU" function for the selected basis OS or OS
reference.
The objects "WinCC Appl. Ref." und "OS Ref." are used for configuration.
An OS reference supports neither clients with own project nor clients without own project.

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Note
How to configure the PC station is described in the STEP 7 help.
It is recommended not to store and edit STEP 7 projects with integrated WinCC projects at
an operator station.
If you work in SIMATIC Manager with technological views, all WinCC editors must be closed.
WinCC projects created or managed using SIMATIC Manager should not be copied using
the Project Duplicator.
Multi-projects have the following restriction:
Do not move any basis OS from a STEP7 sub-project to another STEP 7 sub-project. While
moving, you will lose all associated OS reference stations their reference to basis OS.
Integration allows you to execute functions in the WinCC project directly from the SIMATIC
Manager. These include:
Opening the WinCC project
Loading the WinCC project on the target computer
working with the WinCC objects "Pictures" and "Report Templates"
The Import OS function in the SIMATIC Manager allows to import independent WinCC projects
into a STEP 7 project.

Prohibited project constellations

No all theoretically imaginable project constellations are practical or allowed in the SIMATIC
Manager. The following constellations are prohibited on the engineering station:
A multi-user project to be operated in Runtime, although its package is loaded on another
server.
A single-user project or multi-user project to be operated in Runtime, but has been swapped
out to the central archive server.

Activating Runtime on ES
Activating Runtime with integrated WinCC project on the ES can be influenced
centrally.
In WinCC Explorer select the item "Project Properties" in the shortcut menu of the current
project. In the Options tab, activate the "Allow activation on ES" checkbox .
The checkbox is unchecked when you insert a new WinCC project.

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You can activate the WinCC project on the ES if the checkbox is activated.

Requirements
The WinCC project is a TIA Project.
i.e. the WinCC project is integrated in a STEP 7 project or PCS7 project.
The corresponding destination path is configured.
If the WinCC project is not a TIA project or the corresponding destination path has not been
configured in ES, then the checkbox does not have any effect. In such a case, the project can
be activated at any time.

Editing orders in SIMATIC Manager in parallel

You can edit several orders in SIMATIC Manager in parallel. You can use SIMATIC Manager
to load a target system and simultaneously create a new WinCC application in the "HW Config"
dialog. The parallel editing of a WinCC project with WinCC Explorer is also permitted.
If one of the orders cannot be executed at the current time, you will be notified via an error
message. You can then trigger the cancelled job again at a later point in time.

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See also
Working With WinCC Objects (Page1889)
Operator Station OS (Page1879)
WinCC Application (Page1864)

12.3.2

WinCC Application

12.3.2.1

WinCC Application

Introduction
In a STEP 7 project, the SIMATIC PC station represents a PC which, similar to the automation
station AS, contains the software and hardware components required for automation. Apart
from communication processors and slot or soft PLCs, these components also include
SIMATIC HMI components.
If a PC station is to be implemented as an operator station, you must add a WinCC application
during configuration. You can choose between various project types, depending on the
respective requirements:
Master server in the multi-user project. The name in the PC station is "WinCC Appl.".
Standby server as redundancy partner in the multi-user project. The name in the PC station
is "WinCC Appl. (Stby.)".
Client in the multi-user project. The name in the PC station is "WinCC Appl. Client".
Reference to a so-called basis OS. The name in the PC station is "WinCC Appl. Ref".
Reference to a so-called base client. The name in the PC station is "WinCC Appl. Client
Ref.".
Central archive server (master server or non-redundant archive server). The name in the
PC station is "WinCC CAS Appl.".
Central archive server (standby server). The name in the PC station is "WinCC CAS Appl.
(Stby.)".
Connectivity station, or Open_PCS7_Station. The name in the PC station is "SPOSA Appl.".
The screenshot below shows an example of how the WinCC applications appear in the
SIMATIC Manager:

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Note
If you use the PROFIBUS or Industrial Ethernet for communication between AS and OS, you
should configure an appropriate connection. Only then can you utilize the advantages of the
PC station, e.g. automatic setting of the unit name.

See also
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
Operator Station OS (Page1879)
How to Create a Reference to a WinCC Application (Page1876)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1875)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1868)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)

12.3.2.2

How to Create a WinCC Application

Introduction
This section shows you how to create the WinCC application in a PC station.

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Requirements
A PC station must have been created in the STEP 7 project.

Procedure
1. Open the hardware configuration for the PC station. To do so, click the PC station in the
navigation window. Select the Open Object option on the pop-up menu.
This will open the HW Config dialog.
2. Click the object PC in the contents window.
Open the hardware directory using the menu item View > Catalogue and navigate to the
folder SIMATIC PC Station > HMI.

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3. Select the desired type of WinCC application and drag it onto a free slot of the PC object.

4. Save and close the hardware configuration.

Upon saving the newly created WinCC application, a subordinate OS is created.

See also
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
Operator Station OS (Page1879)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1875)
How to Select the Standby Computer (Page1872)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1868)
WinCC Application (Page1864)

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12.3.2.3

How to Set the Path to the Target Computer

Introduction
To be able to load the WinCC project, you must set the path to the target computer in the object
properties.
The following description refers to an OS in a WinCC application. For other OS types, the
dialog structure might differ.

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Requirements
The OS is created as an object of a WinCC application.

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC project and open the "Object Properties" using the pop-up menu.
2. If you wish to configure an OS of type OS, select the Target OS and Standby OS
tab.
If you wish to configure an OS of type OS (Client), select the Target OS tab.
The following figures refer to an OS of type OS created in a WinCC application.
You can enter the path to the target computer directly as shared directory in the format \
\<Computer name>\<Enable>. Following the direct entry, click the Apply button. The WinCC
project directory and the project file will be supplemented.
Alternatively, you can open a selection dialog by clicking the Browse button.
If you have entered the path directly, continue with step 4.

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3. Click the "Browse..." button. In the Select Target OS dialog, select the network drive and
the folder you require. Click "Open".

4. Check the path to the target computer and then close the Properties dialog.

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Note
The function "Generating/Updating Archive Tags" may only be used jointly with PCS7.
Additional information on this function may be found in the configuration manual Process
Guidance System PCS7, Operator Station in the PCS7 documentation.

See also
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
Operator Station OS (Page1879)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1875)
How to Select the Standby Computer (Page1872)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)

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12.3.2.4

How to Select the Standby Computer

Introduction
If you configure a redundant system, the master server and the standby server must be
connected to each other. You set up this connection in the object properties for the master
server.
Note
The WinCC project of the standby server is a copy of the WinCC project on the master server.
Both projects must be identical to ensure correct data synchronization in Runtime. For this
reason, direct configuration of the standby project is not possible in the SIMATIC Manager.

Requirements
The master server must have been created as WinCC Application.
The standby server must have been created as WinCC Application (Stby.).

Procedure
1. Select the master project and open the "Object Properties" using the shortcut menu.
2. Select the "Target OS and Standby OS Computer" tab.

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3. Select the standby OS and then close the dialog with "OK".

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4. Check the name of the assigned standby OS in the SIMATIC Manager: It must consist of
the name of the master OS with the add in "_StBy".

5. Please note that the path to the target computer must also be set in the properties of the
standby OS. In the properties of the standby OS, check the assignment to the master OS.
The field for the master OS must display the name of the master OS.

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Note
In the master OS project, the redundancy is given default settings by the system. You have
to perform different settings from this in the master OS project. You use the "Redundancy"
editor for this purpose. It is advisable to make these settings on the creation system; no
configuration is then necessary on the target computers.

See also
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
Operator Station OS (Page1879)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1875)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)

12.3.2.5

How to Load the Project on the Target Computer

Introduction
When you have completed configuration, you must load the WinCC project on the target
computer. To do so, use the "Load Target System" function of SIMATIC Manager.
If you have built-up a redundant operator station, then Master server and Standby server will
be loaded one after the other. The standby server is loaded together with a copy of the WinCC
project of the master server. Both projects must be identical to ensure correct data
synchronization in Runtime. For this reason, direct configuration of the standby project is not
possible in the SIMATIC Manager.

Requirements
The path to the target computer must have been set.
The path must be set for Master and Standby for redundant system.

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC project in the WinCC application.
2. Start the "Target System > Load" function using the context menu.
3. In the dialog, select the scope of the load operation using the options Entire WinCC Project
or Modifications.
Under the following conditions, only the Entire WinCC Project option is available:
- When the project is loaded onto the target system for the first time.
- As a result of configurations in the WinCC project that lead to the loss of the online
modification capability.
- When the standby server has not yet loaded the WinCC project of the master server.

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Note
Do not open the project on the target computer until the load operation has been completed.

See also
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
Operator Station OS (Page1879)
How to Select the Standby Computer (Page1872)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1868)
WinCC Application (Page1864)

12.3.2.6

How to Create a Reference to a WinCC Application

Introduction
Using OS references offers the advantage of loading one WinCC project, the so called basis
OS, onto several target systems. The objects "WinCC Appl. Ref." und "OS Ref." are used for
configuration.
Apart from the WinCC application and its OS, each additional destination system needs an
application reference and an OS reference. The configuration is performed in several steps.
1. Creating the application reference.
2. Configuring the OS reference.
This section shows you how to create a reference to a WinCC application in a PC station.

Requirements
A PC station must have been created in the STEP 7 project.
The basis OS is of object type OS, of project type single-user or multi-user, and does not
have a redundant partner.

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Procedure
1. Open the hardware configuration for the PC station. To do so, click the PC station in the
navigation window. Select the Open Object option on the shortcut menu. This will open the
HW Config dialog.
2. Click the object PC in the contents window.
Open the hardware directory using the menu item View > Catalogue and navigate to the
folder SIMATIC PC Station > HMI.

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3. Select the application type "WinCC Appl. Ref." and drag the object onto a free slot of the
PC in the PC object.

4. Save and close the hardware configuration.

5. The navigation window of SIMATIC Manager displays the just created object WinCC Appl.
Ref(n) displayed.
In order to complete the configuration of an OS reference, the OS Ref. object must still be
configured. Additional information may be found in the section Configuring a Reference to an
OS.

Note
You can use the same method to configure the reference to a WinCC application client. The
corresponding project is then of the project type "Client".

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See also
How to Configure a Reference to an OS (Page1885)
Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager (Page1861)

12.3.3

Operator Station OS

12.3.3.1

Operator Station OS

Introduction
The OS represents a WinCC project in the SIMATIC Manager. Unlike the WinCC application,
the OS is not integrated in the configuration of the target computer. This means that you have
to carry out additional configuration steps on the target computer, e.g. setting the unit name.
You can create two different project types:
Multi-user project
Client project
The illustration below shows how the operator station appears in the SIMATIC Manager:

Note
Further information on the advantages of the WinCC application can be found under WinCC
Application.

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See also
How to Configure a Reference to an OS (Page1885)
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1884)
How to Select the Standby Computer (Page1872)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
WinCC Application (Page1864)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1880)

12.3.3.2

How to Create an Operator Station

Introduction
This section shows you how to create an operator station in the SIMATIC Manager.

Requirement
The STEP 7 project must have been opened using the SIMATIC Manager.

Procedure
1. Open the Navigation Window and select the project or library in which the OS should be
set up.
2. Select the entry Insert New Object in the pop-up menu. You can now select either OS (for
a server) or OS (client).

See also
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1884)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1880)

12.3.3.3

How to Set the Path to the Target Computer

Introduction
To be able to load the WinCC project, you must set the path to the target computer in the object
properties.

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Requirements
The OS is inserted as object of a WinCC application or as OS (client) directly in the S7
project.

Procedure
1. Select the OS and open the "Object Properties" using the shortcut menu.
2. If you wish to configure an OS in a WinCC application, select the Target OS and Standby
OS tab.
If you wish to configure an OS of type OS (Client), select the Target OS tab.
The following illustrations refer to an OS in a WinCC application.
You can enter the path to the target computer directly as shared directory in the format \
\<Computer name>\<Enable>. Following the direct entry, click the Apply button. The WinCC
project directory and the project file will be supplemented.
Alternatively, you can open a selection dialog by clicking the Browse button.
If you have entered the path directly, continue with step 4.

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3. To select a path via a selection dialog, click the "Browse..." button. In the Select Target OS
dialog, select the network drive and the folder you require. Click "Open".

4. Check the path to the target computer and then close the Properties dialog.

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Note
Enter the computer name and the symbolic computer name and not the IP address of the
computer.
Note
The function "Generating/Updating Archive Tags" may only be used jointly with PCS7.
Additional information on this function may be found in the configuration manual Process
Guidance System PCS7, Operator Station in the PCS7 documentation.

See also
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1884)
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)

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12.3.3.4

How to Load the Project on the Target Computer

Introduction
When you have completed configuration, you must load the WinCC project on the target
computer. To do so, use the "Load Target System" function of SIMATIC Manager.

Persistence in CS with integrated WinCC projects

Changes to the control properties in Runtime are not persistently accepted in CS with PCS 7
projects or TIA projects. When you completely load the ES to the OS, the changed settings
on the OS will be overwritten.
Configure the properties of the controls on the ES.
Note
If STEP 7 and the WinCC project are on the operator station, the WinCC project does not
have to be loaded.

Requirements
The path to the target computer must have been set.

Procedure
1. Select the OS.
2. Start the "Target System > Load" function using the shortcut menu.
3. In the dialog, select the scope of the load operation using the options Entire WinCC Project
or Modifications.

You have the Complete WinCC Project option under the following conditions:
- When the project is loaded for the first time on the target system.
- Through configurations in the WinCC Project that lead to the load online changes capacity
being lost.
Open the project on the target computer only after the loading is complete.

See also
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
How to Select the Standby Computer (Page1872)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1880)

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12.3.3.5

How to Configure a Reference to an OS

Introduction
Using OS references offers the advantage of loading one WinCC project, the so called basis
OS, onto several target systems. The objects "WinCC Appl. Ref." und "OS Ref." are used for
configuration.
Apart from the WinCC application and its OS, each additional target system needs an
application reference and an OS reference. The configuration is performed in several steps.
1. Creating the application reference.
2. Configuring the OS reference. You must create the OS reference in STEP 7 sub-project of
basis OS.
This section shows how to configure an OS reference.
The "WinCC Appl. Ref." application reference to this basis OS was previously created.
Additional information may be found in the section Creating a Reference to a WinCC
Application.
After processing, you must transfer the project to the target system of basis OS along with all
the references. Select the "Download to CPU" function for the selected basis OS or OS
reference.

Requirements
A PC station must have been created in the STEP 7 project.
The basis OS is of object type OS, of project type single-user or multi-user, and does not
have a redundant partner.
The "WinCC Appl. Ref." application reference to this basis OS was previously created.

Procedure
1. In the navigation window of SIMATIC Manager, navigate to the desired object WinCC Appl.
Ref(n). Select the subordinate object OS Ref.
2. Select Object properties from the shortcut menu of the object. The Properties - OS
Reference dialog opens.
3. Change over to the tab OS Ref: Options for OS Reference Objects.
4. Select the basis OS for this reference object in the basis OS field. The name of the
associated basis OS is applied to the name of the OS reference object in the format
<name_basic_os>_Ref(n).
Enter the associated OS path in the field Path to Target OS Computer. Alternatively, you
can open a selection dialog by clicking the "..." button and select the path in this dialog.
5. Close the dialog with the "OK" button.
The project of the basis OS must now be transferred to the associated OS by using the
Download to CPU function.
When you make changes in the WinCC project of the basis OS you need to transfer the same
to the target system of basis OS and to each target system of references.
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Note
Multi-projects have the following restriction:
Do not move any basis OS from a STEP7 sub-project to another STEP 7 sub-project. While
moving, you will lose all associated OS reference stations their reference to basis OS.

See also
How to Create a Reference to a WinCC Application (Page1876)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1875)
Managing WinCC Projects and Objects in the SIMATIC Manager (Page1861)

12.3.4

How to Import a WinCC Project with the SIMATIC Manager

Introduction
You can use the SIMATIC Manager to import a previously independent WinCC project into a
STEP 7 project.

Requirements
The WinCC project to be imported is closed.
On the computer used for the import into the STEP 7 project, there are no open WinCC
projects.

Procedure
1. In the SIMATIC Manager, open the STEP 7 project in which to import the WinCC project.
2. In the Tools menu, select Import OS .... The Import OS dialog opens.
3. . 3 Click the ... button to select the path of the WinCC project you want to import in the Open
selection dialog. The selected path is shown in the field OS to import.

If the name of the WinCC project has more than 24 characters without file name extension
or if it is not unique within the STEP 7 project, a message appears. In this case, you can
specify another name.
4. Start the import by clicking the Import OS button.
When the import has been successfully completed, a message is displayed.
Exit the dialog by clicking the Exit button.

In errors occurred during the import, an error message is given and the respective errors
are written into the log file import.log. The log file is stored in the WinCCOM folder under
the project directory of the imported WinCC project.

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During the import, a PC station with subordinate WinCC application is created for the WinCC
project to be imported in the SIMATIC Manager. The imported WinCC project is created as
subordinate OS object with the name specified for the import.
In the imported WinCC project, the following actions are performed:
Existing packages are deleted.
The computer name is set.
An activated redundancy is deactivated.

See also
How to Create an Operator Station (Page1880)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1875)
How to Select the Standby Computer (Page1872)
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
How to Set the Path to the Target Computer (Page1880)

12.3.5

Handling WinCC Projects Between STEP 7 Projects and Libraries

Introduction
The following actions can be executed on WinCC projects using the SIMATIC Managers:
Copying or moving a WinCC project within a STEP 7 project
Copying or moving a WinCC project between STEP 7 projects
Copying or moving a WinCC project from a STEP 7 project to a library
Copying or moving a WinCC project from a library to a STEP 7 project
Renaming a WinCC project
Deleting a WinCC project

Requirements
A WinCC project must have been created in the STEP 7 project.

Copying
1. Open the STEP 7 project into which the WinCC project is to be copied, using the "File >
Open" option.
2. Select the WinCC project you want to copy and drag it onto the STEP 7 project selected
as the destination.

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Moving
1. Open the STEP 7 project into which the WinCC project is to be moved, using the "File >
Open" option.
2. Select the WinCC project you want to move and drag it onto the STEP 7 project selected
as the destination, holding down the Shift key as you do so.

Renaming
1. Select the WinCC project.
2. Select the "Rename" option on the pop-up menu and enter the new name.

Deleting
1. Select the WinCC project you want to delete.
2. Select the "Delete" option on the pop-up menu and acknowledge the warning with "Yes".
Note
In the same way, a WinCC project can be copied within a STEP 7 project or between a
STEP 7 project and a library. If the WinCC project is open, Rename, Move and Delete are
not executed.

12.3.6

Accepting Language Settings from SIMATIC Managers

Introduction
If a WinCC project is opened in SIMATIC Manager, WinCC Explorer will accept the current
language setting from SIMATIC Manager. The language settings of SIMATIC Manager will
only take effect on the language setting of the CS (Configuration System).

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Behavior
There are three scenarios during opening of a WinCC project:
Scenario

Behavior

The current language of

If WinCC Explorer or one of the editors (Graphics Designer, Load Online
SIMATIC Manager was also Changes or similar) is started, the language set in SIMATIC Manager is
installed in WinCC.
loaded. This also applies if the project is opened by using ProAgent, for
example.
The current language of
SIMATIC Manager was not
installed in WinCC.

If WinCC Explorer or one of the editors (Graphics Designer, Load Online

Changes or similar) is started, the language stored as default language
is loaded. This also applies if the project is opened by using ProAgent,
for example.

The WinCC project was

most recently configured in
a language not installed in
SIMATIC Manager.

If WinCC Explorer or one of the editors (Graphics Designer, Load Online

Changes or similar) is started, its language setting is retained. In this
case the current language setting of SIMATIC Manager has no effect on
the language setting of WinCC Explorers or the respective editor.

You can change the language setting in the open WinCC Explorer at any time. When this editor
is closed and restarted, the current language setting of SIMATIC Manager is loaded again.

See also
How to Open the WinCC Project (Page1897)

12.3.7

Working With WinCC Objects

12.3.7.1

Working With WinCC Objects

Introduction
Apart from the WinCC project, the associated WinCC objects are also displayed in the
SIMATIC Manager. These objects are pictures and report templates of the project.
If you have created pictures and report templates using the Graphics and Report Designer,
they are not automatically visible in the SIMATIC Manager. They must be imported first.
You can also create pictures and report templates using the SIMATIC Manager. These objects
are empty initially and can be processed further using the Graphics Designer and Report
Designer.
The SIMATIC Manager also provides functions for handling these objects, e.g. copy, move,
and delete.
In addition, the SIMATIC Manager provides functions for managing model solutions of WinCC
objects in libraries.

The illustration below shows how the WinCC objects appear in the SIMATIC Manager.
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See also
How to Import WinCC Objects (Page1892)
How to Handle WinCC Objects (Page1891)
How to Create WinCC Objects (Page1890)

12.3.7.2

How to Create WinCC Objects

Introduction
In the SIMATIC Manager, you can create the WinCC objects pictures and report templates
without having to open the WinCC project. These WinCC objects have no content initially. You
can, however, process them further using Graphics Designer and Report Designer.

Requirement
A WinCC application or OS must have been created in the SIMATIC Manager.

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC project in the WinCC application or the OS.
2. Select the entry Insert New Object in the pop-up menu. You can now create either a picture
or a report template.

See also
How to Import WinCC Objects (Page1892)
How to Handle WinCC Objects (Page1891)
Working With WinCC Objects (Page1889)

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12.3.7.3

How to Handle WinCC Objects

Introduction
You can use the SIMATIC Manager to copy, move, rename, and delete pictures and report
templates. It is possible to copy and move objects between WinCC projects which have been
created either in the same STEP 7 project or in different STEP 7 projects or libraries.
Configured dynamics are also copied when objects are copied and moved to other WinCC
projects. The process connection is lost since the used tags do not exist in the target project.
You can compile a list of nonexistent tags using the CrossReference Editor. This also allows
process connections to be linked.
Copying and moving is then mainly used if you want to duplicate certain system sections of a
template project. You copy the pictures which do not contain any dynamics or contain a
dynamic prepared with prototypes, to the target project and perform process connection there.
Note
The names of pictures and report templates must be unique within a WinCC project.

Copy
1. Select the WinCC object.
2. Drag the object onto the WinCC project you selected as the destination. If the object is
copied between two WinCC projects in different STEP 7 projects and an object with the
same name already exists, the existing object is only overwritten after confirmation.

Moving
1. Select the WinCC object.
2. Drag the object onto the WinCC project you selected as the destination, holding down the
Shift key as you do so. If the object is moved between two WinCC projects in different STEP
7 projects and an object with the same name already exists, the existing object is only
overwritten after confirmation.

Rename
1. Select the WinCC object.
2. Select the "Rename" option on the pop-up menu and enter the new name.

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Delete
1. Select the WinCC object.
2. Select the "Delete" option on the pop-up menu and acknowledge the warning with "Yes".
Note
If the object is opened by Graphics Designer or Report Designer, Rename, Move, and
Delete are not possible.
If you create WinCC objects in SIMATIC Manager, you may not rename or delete these
in WinCC Explorer. This also applies to WinCC objects created in WinCC and imported
into SIMATIC Manager by using the "Import WinCC objects" function. This import changes
the WinCC object into a TIA object.

If you copy such a TIA object with Graphics Designer or Report Designer, the copy is
created as a WinCC object. You may rename or copy this copy as a WinCC object.
Note
If you rename a screen in WinCC Explorer, only use a picture name one time. The software
does not check whether the name already exists. Duplicate pictures names can lead to
conflicts during access via VBA or during dynamization.

See also
How to Import WinCC Objects (Page1892)
How to Create WinCC Objects (Page1890)
Working With WinCC Objects (Page1889)

12.3.7.4

How to Import WinCC Objects

Introduction
You can create pictures and report templates using the Graphics Designer and Report
Designer editors. However, these WinCC objects are not displayed automatically in the
SIMATIC Manager. You can update the view in the SIMATIC Manager using the Import WinCC
Objects function.

Requirement
Pictures and report templates must have been created using the associated editors.

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC project in the WinCC application or the OS.
2. Select the Import WinCC Objects item in the pop-up menu. The pictures and report
templates are displayed in the SIMATIC Manager.

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See also
How to Handle WinCC Objects (Page1891)
How to Create WinCC Objects (Page1890)
Working With WinCC Objects (Page1889)

12.3.7.5

Setting Up and Monitoring of Server Assignment

Introduction
Using the SIMATIC Manager, you can assign various OS servers to a selected OS. The
selected OS may be an OS client, an OS server or a central archive server.
If you have selected an OS object, the "Assignment OS Server for <OS> dialog" displays a list
of servers available in this project. An existing archive server is also listed.
If the selected OS project contains packages of servers unknown to the S7 project and the
multi-project, respectively, the list will be expanded by entries of these servers not found. The
"OS Information" column contains the entry "Unknown" in these cases.

The OS Server Assignment for <OS> Dialog

Open the "OS Server Assignment for <OS>" dialog by selecting the OS in SIMATIC Manager.
Select the "Assign OS Server..." entry in the pop-up menu.
Alternatively, you may open the dialog in SIMATIC Manager in the Tools menu by using the
"OS > Assign OS Server..." entry.

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The dialog will display all OS servers accessible and belonging to the S7 project and the multiproject, respectively. The list might be amended by entries containing the OS information
"Unknown". The following OS objects are not displayed:
Selected OS for which a dialog was opened
Standby OS server
Clients
OS of single user project
OS References
Client References
An entry may contain the following information:
Check box to setup or delete an assignment to a selected OS project. Displays upon
opening of the dialog whether or not an assignment exists.
OS information consisting of the name of the S7 project and the description of the OS object.
Symbolic computer name
In order to set up an assignment, select the check box of the OS object and finish the dialog
with OK. Thus, a package will be imported into the OS for all newly selected OS objects.
In order to delete an existing assignment, clear the check box of the OS object and finish the
dialog with OK. Thus, the corresponding package will be deleted from the OS for all newly
deselected OS objects.

Significance of Colors in List Entries

Using the color of an entry, you obtain information on each OS object.

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Type

Color

Additional information

Significance of information

black

Check box not selected

Assignment to server may be established.

Server has exported package.

black

Check box selected

Assignment to server is established.

OS has loaded package.

gray

No check box

Assignment to server cannot be

established.
Reason: Server does not have exported package.

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Type

Color

Additional information

Significance of information

red

No check ox
OS information and symbolic
computer name are entered

Assignment to server cannot be

established.
Reason: Exported package of server does not
have unique name.
There are several reasons for this:
The project already contains a server with an
identical symbolic computer name.
The OS object contains an imported package
with an identical symbolic computer name.

red

Check box selected

OS information contains the
entry "Unknown" and the
symbolic computer name has
been entered

The server named in the imported package of the

selected OS object cannot be found in the S7
project and multi-project, respectively.
Reason: OS server no longer belongs to the multiproject, or package has been deleted.
In this case you should uncheck the checkbox for
this entry and exit the "OS Server Assignment for
<OS>" dialog by clicking OK. Thus, you delete the
imported package which could not be assigned.

Note
If you execute one of the following actions in an S7 project, you should subsequently check
the OS server assignment in the "OS Server Assignment for <OS>" dialog:
Dearchiving an S7 project with "Dearchiving"
Storing an S7 project with "Save As..."
Removing an S7 project with "Delete for Editing"
Picking up an S7 project with "Picking up after Editing"
Copying an S7 project with Windows Explorer
Moving an S7 project with Windows Explorer
If red entries of Type 5 occur in the list during the "OS Server Assignment for <OS>" dialog,
proceed as follows:
1. Regenerate all packages by starting the "Compiling Multiple OS" wizard Compilation of
minimum scope suffices. Therefore, select the check box Changes Only and deactivate
other options, such as Tags, Messages and SFC.
If the red entry is concerned with the central archive server, you must additionally trigger
the generation of server data.
2. For all OS objects, open the "OS Server Assignment for <OS>" dialog and check for
possible "Unknown" error entries.
3. In these cases, make note of the symbolic computer name.
4. Delete the "Unknown" entries by deactivating the respective checkboxes and by finishing
the dialog with OK.
5. Open the dialog and search for the symbolic computer name noted in Item 3. Assign these
computers to the selected OS objects by selecting the respective check box and by
finishing the dialog with OK.

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12.3.7.6

How to Create Model Solutions of WinCC Projects or WinCC Objects

Introduction
Using the SIMATIC Manager, complete WinCC projects can be copied or moved to a library.
These WinCC projects can then be edited n the library. The model solutions thus created serve
as templates for several uses in WinCC projects. The copying or moving processes to or from
a library behave in the same way as between two Step 7 projects.
Individual screens and report templates can also be copied or moved from a WinCC project
to an OS within a library and used as a model template.

Requirement
Copying and moving individual screens and report templates:
An OS is set up in the library as destination.
Copying or moving WinCC projects:
The source project is not activated.
Note
When copying or moving WinCC projects, screens and report templates to and from
libraries, name conflicts may occur. This means that the library or STEP 7 project already
contains a WinCC object with this name. To prevent the target object being overwritten,
a new name is assigned for the inserted object. The name of the object is assigned a
consecutive number meaning, for example, "Picture1" becomes "Picture1(1)".

Copying a WinCC Project or WinCC Object in a Library

1. Open the SIMATIC Manager.
2. Open the STEP 7 project to be used as the source using the menu items "File > Open".
3. Open the library in which the model solution should be copied using menu items "File >
Open".
4. Select the OS, screen or report template to be copied in the STEP 7 project. Drag the object
per Drag & Drop onto the target library or OS in the library.

Moving a WinCC Project or WinCC Object in a Library

1. Open the SIMATIC Manager.
2. Open the STEP 7 project to be used as the source using the menu items "File > Open".
3. Open the library in which the model solution should be copied using menu items "File >
Open".
4. Select the OS, screen or report template to be copied in the STEP 7 project. Drag the object
per Drag & Drop, with the Shift key pressed, onto the target library or OS in the library.

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Copying a WinCC Project or WinCC Object from a Library

1. Open the SIMATIC Manager.
2. Open the library from which the model solution should be copied using menu items "File >
Open".
3. Open the STEP 7 project to which the model solution should be copied using menu items
"File > Open".
4. Select the OS, screen or report template to be copied in the library. Drag the object per
Drag & Drop onto the S7 project selected as target or OS selected as target.

Moving a WinCC Project or WinCC Object from a Library

1. Open the SIMATIC Manager.
2. Open the library from which the model solution should be copied using menu items "File >
Open".
3. Open the STEP 7 project to which the model solution should be copied using menu items
"File > Open".
4. Select the OS, screen or report template to be copied in the library. Drag the object per
Drag & Drop onto the S7 project selected as target or OS selected as target.

Renaming a WinCC Project or WinCC Object in a Library

1. Open the SIMATIC Manager.
2. Select the OS, screen or report template to be renamed.
3. Select the "Rename" option on the pop-up menu and enter the new name.

Deleting a WinCC Project or WinCC Object in a Library

1. Open the SIMATIC Manager.
2. Select the OS, screen or report template to be deleted.
3. Select the "Delete" option on the pop-up menu and acknowledge the warning with "Yes".

12.3.8

How to Open the WinCC Project

Introduction
You can start WinCC directly from the SIMATIC Manager and then open the WinCC project.

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Requirement
The WinCC project must have been created in the SIMATIC Manager.

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC project in the WinCC application or the OS.
2. Select the "Open Object" option on the context menu.
Note
Starting with version V6.2, WinCC evaluates the project-related access protection that is used
to protect STEP 7 or PCS7 projects.
Independent of access protection:
WinCC Projects that are integrated in a STEP7/PCS7 project cannot be opened using an
ES where only WinCC has been installed. For that you also need STEP 7 or NCM PC Edition
of SIMATIC NET CD on the ES.
If project-related access protection has been activated for WinCC project, then you must also
enter the STEP 7 project password while opening the project.

See also
How to Create a WinCC Application (Page1865)
WinCC Application (Page1864)

12.3.9

Starting a Simulation in STEP 7

Introduction
The "Start OS simulation" function creates a temporary copy of the selected project on the
local computer. This copy of the project is then started in runtime.
The temporary copy is always created locally. In this case, a new directory "OS_Simulation"
is created in the existing directory structure parallel to the STEP 7 project already open.
If the selected project is on a different computer, the temporary copy is still created on the local
computer. In this case, the "OS_Simulation" directory is set up in the STEP 7 installation path
under "S7Proj".
This function is required in order to test the changes made in the WinCC project or STEP 7
project.

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Note
With connections configured on both sides, it is important to ensure that the connections
between the local computer and the AS as well as between the target computer and the AS
have the same name. If this is not the case, no connection will be set up between the local
computer and the AS.
During simulation, communication to other computers is restricted. The following functions, for
example, are not available:
Server-Server communication
Client-Server communication
Redundancy
Communication with a central archive server

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC project in the WinCC application or the OS.
2. Select the "Start OS Simulation" option from the context menu.
Note
If a WinCC project is already in runtime, the "Start OS simulation" cannot be executed. A
corresponding message is issued.

12.4

Transferring Tags, Texts and Reports to WinCC

12.4.1

Transferring Tags, Texts and Reports to WinCC

Introduction
This chapter explains the Compile OS function, tells you which configuration data is affected
by the transfer operation, and how this data is stored in the WinCC project. It familiarizes you
with the dialogs and procedures associated with the transfer operation.
You must transfer the AS configuration data relevant for operator control and monitoring, to
the data of WinCC so that it is available to you during WinCC configuration and in Runtime.
To do so, you use the Compile OS function.
During the transfer operation, process tags are stored in the tag management system, user
texts are stored in the text library, and messages are stored in the alarm logging system of the
WinCC project.

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See also
Compilation Log (Page1910)
How to Compile Changes (Page1906)
How to Compile the Entire OS (Page1902)
Compiling OS (Page1900)

12.4.2

Compiling OS

12.4.2.1

Compiling OS

Introduction
You use the "Compile OS" function to create the structures and data in the WinCC project that
are required for operator control and monitoring.

Note
You may compile one OS or several OS. If you wish to compile one OS, use the "Compile OS"
wizard. If you wish to compile multiple OS, use the "Compile multiple OSs" wizard.
Both wizards differ only by the number of OS to be compiled. The statements of the wizard
"Compile OS" therefore apply equally to the wizard "Compile multiple OSs".

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Scope of Compilation
The "Compile OS" function has three compile modes:
The "Entire OS with memory reset" mode is the default mode. All AS data in the operator
station is erased and the data for the S7 programs selected for compilation is transferred
again.
The "Entire OS" mode is appropriate if with several assigned S7 programs you have not
selected all for compilation. This mode ensures that the already transferred data of the S7
programs not selected for compilation is retained in the operator station.
The "Changes" mode should be used if you have only made minor changes in the S7
program. If you make changes to a structure tag where one structure element is used as
message tag, then online changes cannot be loaded for messages.

Functions
The following functions are executed with "Compile OS":
Creation of the communication driver SIMATIC S7 PROTOCOL SUITE
Creation of the WinCC units, e.g. Industrial Ethernet, PROFIBUS and so on
Creation of a logical connection for each S7 program
Creation of raw data tags for the message system and archive system
Creation of structure types for the component types to be transferred in WinCC and for the
global data blocks
Creation of the process tags in the tag management system
Generation of the messages
Transfer of the message and user texts

When Should Compilation Be Performed?

Compilation of OS should be performed:
before WinCC Runtime is started for the first time
after new component instances are added or component names are changed
after operator texts and unit texts are changed
after the operator control and monitoring attributes of an instance are changed
after message and user texts are changed
Note
Additional information can be found in the STEP 7 help and in the "Compile OS" Wizard
help.

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See also
Compilation Log (Page1910)
How to Compile Changes (Page1906)
How to Compile the Entire OS (Page1902)

12.4.2.2

How to Compile the Entire OS

Introduction
You compile the configuration data using the Compile OS wizard. Compilation of the entire
OS can be performed in two different compilation modes:
The "Entire OS with memory reset" mode is the default mode. All AS data in the operator
station is erased and the data for the S7 programs selected for compilation is transferred
again.
The "Entire OS" mode is appropriate if with several assigned S7 programs you have not
selected all for compilation. This mode ensures that the already transferred data of the S7
programs not selected for compilation is retained in the operator station.

Starting the "Compile OS" Wizard

You can start the "Compile OS" wizard in SIMATIC Manager in different ways.
If you wish to compile the configuration data of a certain operator station, first select the
OS and start the assistant by using the menu item "Edit" > "Compile". Alternatively, you
can also select the "Compile" option in the pop-up menu of the OS.
If you wish to compile the configuration data of several or all operator stations, start the
wizard from the menu item "Options > "'Compile Multiple OSs' wizard" > "Start...".
Note
Please note that compiling the entire OS will lead to a loss of online loadability.
Further information on "Compile OS" can be found in the "STEP 7 Help" and "Compile
OS" wizard Help.

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Requirements
The WinCC project must have been created.

Procedure
The compilation of a particular operator station is described in this procedure. The compilation
of several operator stations is performed in the same way.
1. Select the OS, and then select "Compile" in the pop-up menu, or select the menu item "Edit"
> "Compile".
2. Select the appropriate S7 program in the list of S7 programs (left) and then drag the S7
program (holding down the left-hand mouse button) onto the desired operator station in the
list of operator stations (right). Click "Next".

This page is only displayed if there is more than one operator station and more than one S7
program in your project. Assignment is otherwise performed automatically.

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1. Using the check box, select the S7 programs that you want to transfer. Data is only
transferred for the selected S7 programs.

2. Select which network connections are to be used. When you select the operator station in
the left-hand field, the associated S7 programs together with the configured network
connections are listed in the right-hand field. To change the network connection, select the
S7 program and press the "Connection..." button. Select the network connection you
require. Press "OK" and then "Next".

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3. Select the compilation mode "Entire OS". If you want to delete all the AS data in the operator
station, select "With memory reset". Click "Next".

4. Check the compilation options and click Compile.

5. When the compilation procedure has been completed, a message may appear informing
you of errors and warnings that have occurred. If this is the case, check the compilation
report.
Note
You should not work on the project during compilation.

You may use the option Archive Tags only jointly with PCS7. Additional information on this
function may be found in the configuration manual Process Guidance System PCS7,
Operator Station in the PCS7 documentation.

See also
Compilation Log (Page1910)
How to Compile Changes (Page1906)
Compiling OS (Page1900)

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12.4.2.3

How to Compile Changes

Introduction
You should compile changes if you have made only minor changes to the S7 programs. In
contrast to compiling the entire OS, compiling the changes has the advantage of maintaining
the online loadability.

Starting the "Compile OS" Wizard

You can start the "Compile OS" wizard in SIMATIC Manager in different ways.
If you wish to compile the configuration data of a certain operator station, first select the
OS and start the assistant by using the menu item "Edit" > "Compile". Alternatively, you
can also select the "Compile" option in the pop-up menu of the OS.
If you wish to compile the configuration data of several or all operator stations, start the
wizard from the menu item "Options > "'Compile Multiple OSs' wizard" > "Start...".
Further information on "Compile OS" can be found in the "STEP 7 Help" and "Compile OS"
wizard Help.

Requirements
The operator station must have been configured.
Operator control and monitoring data which has been changed must exist in the AS
configuration.
An entire compilation or an implicit compilation (with selection of connection) must have
been performed for the first time.
If you make changes to a structure tag where one structure element is used as message
tag, then online changes cannot be loaded for messages.

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Procedure
The compilation of a particular operator station is described in this procedure. The compilation
of several operator stations is performed in the same way.
1. Select the OS, and then select "Compile" in the pop-up menu, or select the menu item "Edit"
> "Compile".
2. If you have no changes, click Next.
If you have changes, select the appropriate S7 program in the list of S7 programs (left) and
then drag the S7 program (holding down the left-hand mouse button) onto the desired
operator station in the list of operator stations (right). Click "Next".

This page is only displayed if there is more than one operator station and more than one
S7 program in your project. Assignment is otherwise performed automatically.
3. If you have no changes, click "Connection".

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4. If you have changes, enable the check boxes to select the S7 programs that you want to
transfer. Data is only transferred for the selected S7 programs. Click "Connection".

5. If you have no changes, click "Cancel".

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6. If you have changes, select the network connections that you want to use. When you select
the operator station in the left-hand field, the associated S7 programs together with the
configured network connections are listed in the right-hand field. To change the network
connection, select the S7 program and press the "Connection..." button. Select the network
connection you require. Press "OK" and then "Next".

7. Select the compilation mode "Changes". Click "Next".

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8. Check the compilation options and click Compile.
9. When the compilation procedure has been completed, a message may appear informing
you of errors that have occurred. If this is the case, check the compilation report.
Note
You should not work on the project during compilation.

You may use the option Archive Tags only jointly with PCS7. Additional information on this
function may be found in the configuration manual Process Guidance System PCS7,
Operator Station in the PCS7 documentation.

See also
Compilation Log (Page1910)
How to Compile the Entire OS (Page1902)
Compiling OS (Page1900)

12.4.2.4

Compilation Log

Introduction
During compilation, logs are created that provide information about:
AS-OS connections
Tag names
Assignment of messages
Errors and warnings that occurred during compilation

Compilation Log
The compilation log contains entries on all objects.
When you have compiled an OS using the Compile OS wizard, subsequently open the
compilation log using the menu item Options > OS > Display compilation log... directly in
SIMATIC Manager. Alternatively, you may also open the compilation log transfer.log in the
WinCC project path with a test editor.
When you have compiled multiple OS with the wizard Compile Multiple OSs, open the
compilation log afterwards by clicking the menu item Options > 'Compile Multiple OSs' wizard
> Open Log... directly in SIMATIC Manager. Alternatively, you may also open the compilation
log transfer.log in the STEP7 project path with a test editor.

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See also
How to Compile Changes (Page1906)
How to Compile the Entire OS (Page1902)
Compiling OS (Page1900)

12.4.3

How to Display Transferred Tags

Introduction
The result of the "Compile OS" function can be checked in the WinCC project.

Procedure
1. Open the Tag Management and then navigate to the configured WinCC unit.
2. Open the logical connection that it contains. All compiled process tags are now displayed.

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Note
In the Tag Management, the compiled tags can be recognized by the structure of their name.
Their name is made up of the S7 program followed by "/".

Compiled tags are write-protected and cannot be deleted from the Tag Management. This is
only possible with the Compile "OS wizard".
In the dialog box Which S7 Programs Do You Want to Transfer with Which Network
Connections? you must disable the S7 programs whose tags are to be deleted in WinCC. To
do this, remove the check mark in front of the program name. Choose the "Entire OS With
Reset" option for the compilation mode. During the compilation operation that follows, al the
tags, connections and messages not created in WinCC are deleted.

See also
Displaying Transferred Messages and Texts (Page1912)
Compilation Log (Page1910)
How to Compile Changes (Page1906)
How to Compile the Entire OS (Page1902)
Compiling OS (Page1900)

12.4.4

Displaying Transferred Messages and Texts

Introduction
The result of the "Compile OS" function can be checked in WinCC.
Blocks of user and message text are stored in the text library, and messages are stored in
Alarm Logging.

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User and Message Texts

1. Select the "Text Library" editor in the WinCC Explorer.
2. Select the "Open" option on the context menu.

Alarms
1. Select the "Alarm Logging" editor in WinCC Explorer.
2. Select the "Open" option on the context menu. The transferred messages can be
recognized by the 10-digit number.

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See also
How to Display Transferred Tags (Page1911)
Compilation Log (Page1910)
How to Compile Changes (Page1906)
How to Compile the Entire OS (Page1902)
Compiling OS (Page1900)

12.4.5

How to Configure Messages in STEP7

Introduction
To ensure a consistent message configuration, two points must be observed when creating
the message texts in STEP7 in order to guarantee the correct response in WinCC.

Assigning the Message Texts According to "Compile OS"

The following example a configuration of the message texts in the STEP7 message editor.

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The standard "Message text" and "Info text" texts as well as the additional texts are assigned
to the following user text blocks of a single message after "Compile OS" in Alarm Logging from
WinCC.

Note
"Compile OS" enables messages to be created in Alarm Logging whose message class and
message type are invalid in WinCC. Invalid messages are prevented by starting the OS
project editor.

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Creating a Group Message According to "Compile OS"

If an additional text 2 is entered in the STEP7 message editor, a user defined group message
is created using "Compile OS" in the Alarm Logging.

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12.5 Compiling and Loading Objects

12.5

Compiling and Loading Objects

Introduction
Objects can be compiled and loaded in just one step. The SIMATIC Manager provides the
Compile and Load Object dialog box for this. Further information on this topic can be found in
STEP 7 Help and Compile and Load Objects Help.

Objects table
In this area you specify which objects are to be compiled and loaded into the target system.

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Objects column
Displays the objects.

Status column
Displays the status of the object.
There are the following statuses:
undetermined: The status could not be determined.
modified: The object has been modified. The object must be recompiled and loaded onto
the system.
compiled: The object has already been compiled but still needs to be loaded onto the
system.
loaded: The object has already been compiled and loaded onto the system already.

Operating status column

Displays the operating status of the system.

Compile/Load column
Here you define the objects that have to be compiled and loaded onto the system. Only the
check boxes having a white background can be enabled or disabled.
If this check box is selected, the column Load in the Table Objects is hidden.

Settings for Compile/Load

Edit button
The Edit button opens the Settings: Compile OS dialog. You ca use this dialog box to modify
the settings for compiling and loading the selected object.
You will find more information about compilation at Compile OS and about loading at Loading
the project onto the destination computer.

Compile Only check box

If this check box is selected, the column Load in the Table Objects is hidden. The objects are
compiled only.

Do Not Load upon Compilation Error check box

If this check box has been selected, the object will not be loaded onto the system when a
compilation error occurs.

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Displaying Log
Single Object button
Opens the log for a specific object.

Overall button
Opens the Overall Log. The overall log contains entries about all objects.

Start button
Start the compile and load operation.
Note
You should not work on the project during compilation and loading.

See also
Compiling OS (Page1900)
How to Load the Project on the Target Computer (Page1884)

12.6

Selection of STEP 7 Symbols

12.6.1

Selection of STEP 7 Symbols

Introduction
During WinCC configuration, you connect WinCC objects, e.g. I/O fields or archive tags, to
tags which are used in Runtime to supply the objects with the current process values.
For process linking, you have the option to choose between two groups of tags: WinCC tags
and STEP 7 symbols.

WinCC Tags
These include the internal and external tags of the Tag Management.

STEP 7 Symbols
These are all inputs, outputs, and bit memories from the symbol list as well as all global data
blocks of the assigned S7 programs.

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You can access STEP 7 symbols directly by means of:
the tag selection dialog
the tag bar of the Graphics Designer

Unlike the external WinCC tags, you can access the STEP 7 symbols without having previously
performed Compile OS and without selecting with the operator control and monitoring attribute.
During process connection, an implicit compilation is performed and the symbol is transferred
to the Tag Management of the WinCC project.

See also
Tag Bar (Page1929)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

12.6.2

Tag Selection Dialog

12.6.2.1

Tag Selection Dialog

Introduction
The tag selection dialog allows you to display tags or symbols from various data sources in a
selection window and to link these tags or symbols to, for example, picture objects of the
Graphics Designer. You determine the displayed data in the Data Source area.
The tag selection dialog is opened automatically when a tag needs to be selected during
configuration.

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See also
Tag Bar (Page1929)
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols (Page1926)
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols (Page1924)
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols (Page1921)

12.6.2.2

How to Display STEP 7 Symbols

Introduction
If you activate the STEP 7 Symbol Server check box, a list of all transferable STEP 7 symbols
are displayed in the data window. These symbols are all inputs, outputs, and bit memories
from the STEP 7 symbol list as well as the global data blocks.
The tag selection dialog has a tag filter. In this field you can use the placeholders "*" and "?"
to specify a search condition for the tag name. Only alphanumeric characters can be used for
the name search. Exit the field using the Tab or Enter key. Only those tags which match your
search criterion are then displayed.

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Requirement
The tag selection dialog must be open.

Procedure
1. Activate the STEP 7 Symbol Server check box.
2. Open the STEP 7 Symbol Server folder in the navigation window.

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3. Open and select the desired S7 program. The global data blocks and all symbols in the
symbol list are now displayed.

4. Open and select the global data block to display its contents.

Note
Only the following data types of a global data block are displayed and can be transferred:
BOOL, BYTE, WORD, DWORD, INT, DINT, REAL, CHAR and STRING.

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See also
Tag Bar (Page1929)
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols (Page1926)
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols (Page1924)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

12.6.2.3

How to Select STEP 7 Symbols

Introduction
In the tag selection dialog you can select STEP 7 symbols directly for process connection
purposes. The selected symbol is then labeled in STEP 7 as operator-controllable and
monitorable and transferred to the Tag Management of WinCC by implicitly running the
"Compile OS" function.
Note
If you select the symbol of a global data block, all elements provided with the operatorcontrollable and monitorable attributes of this block are transferred implicitly to Tag
Management of WinCC.

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Requirement
STEP 7 symbols must be displayed.

Procedure
1. Select the desired symbol.
2. Select the symbol in the Select Tag dialog box and click "OK" to close the Tag Selection
dialog box.

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3. If the "Compile OS" function or the implicit transfer has not yet been performed, you must
select the desired channel unit (once only) via which communication with the AS is to be
set up. In this case, you select the desired network connection.

4. Check the created dynamic in the Object Properties.

See also
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols (Page1926)
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols (Page1921)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

12.6.2.4

How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols

Introduction
In the tag selection dialog, you can transfer STEP 7 symbols in the Tag Management without
direct process connection being carried out.

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Requirement
STEP 7 symbols must be displayed.

Procedure
1. Select the desired symbols. Several symbols can be selected at the same time using the
CTRL or SHIFT keys and clicking with the mouse.
2. Click the "Transfer Data" button.

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3. If the "Compile OS" function or the implicit transfer has not yet been run, you must select
the desired channel unit (once only) via which communication with the AS is to be set up.
In this case, you select the desired network connection.

4. Check the result of the transfer in the Tag Management.

See also
Tag Bar (Page1929)
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols (Page1924)
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols (Page1921)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

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12.6.3

Tag Bar

12.6.3.1

Tag Bar

Introduction
Using the tag bar, you can connect tags directly to object attributes and thus dynamize the
affected attributes. The tag bar is part of the Graphics Designer and is similar in layout to the
tag selection dialog.
Unlike the tag selection dialog, the tag bar remains open after an assignment operation and
allows a tag to be connected to an object attribute by means of simple drag and drop.
There are two locations where you can drop the tag:
on an object in the picture (see below for object types)
on an attribute in the Properties tab of the Object Properties dialog

Dropping on Object in Picture

If you drop the tag on a graphic object, you do not specify the attribute to be dynamized. The
following rules therefore apply:
The attribute to be dynamized is specified in the case of objects which have a simplified
configuration dialog. The table shows the objects and the dynamized attribute.
Object

Attribute

I/O Field

Output value

Bar

Process driver connection

Status display

Current status

Text list

Output value

Check box

Selected fields

Option button

Selected fields

Slider object

Process driver connection

The used update cycle is the default cycle set in the Default Object Settings tab of the Settings
dialog. You open the Settings dialog under the Extras ->Settings... menu.
No tags can be dropped on standard objects, e.g. circles and lines.

Dropping on Attribute:
Drop the tag on an attribute in the Properties tab of the Object Properties dialog. This attribute
is then dynamized by the tag.

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See also
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols (Page1926)
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols (Page1932)
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols (Page1930)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

12.6.3.2

How to Display STEP 7 Symbols

Introduction
The tag bar is part of the Graphics Designer. Unlike the tag selection dialog, the tag bar remains
open after an assignment operation.
The tag bar has a tag filter. In this field you can use the placeholders * and ? to specify
a search condition for the tag name. Only alphanumeric characters can be used for the name
search. Exit the field using the Tab or Enter key. Only those tags which match your search
criterion are then displayed.

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Requirement
The Graphics Designer must be open.

Procedure
1. Open the list of toolbars by choosing View > Toolbars from the menu. Select Tags and
acknowledge with OK.
2. Click on the plus sign in front of the FDLCP5412/A2 icon S7 icon. Select the DB directory.
The global data blocks are then displayed.

3. Open and select the global data block to display its contents.

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See also
Tag Bar (Page1929)
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols (Page1926)
How to Select STEP 7 Symbols (Page1932)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

12.6.3.3

How to Select STEP 7 Symbols

Introduction
You can perform process connection by simply dragging the STEP 7 symbol onto an object
or an object attribute.
The selected symbol is then labeled in STEP 7 as operator-controllable and monitorable and
transferred to the Tag Management of WinCC by implicitly running the "Compile OS" function.
Note
If you select the symbol of a global data block, all elements provided with the operatorcontrollable and monitorable attributes of this block are transferred implicitly to Tag
Management of WinCC.

Requirements
The tag bar must be open.
The STEP 7 symbols must be displayed.

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Procedure
1. Select the desired symbol.
2. Drag the symbol onto the desired object or the object attribute.

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3. If the "Compile OS" function or the implicit transfer has not yet been run, you must select
the desired channel unit (once only) via which communication with the AS is to be set up.
In this case, you select the desired network connection.

4. Check the created dynamic in the Object Properties.

See also
Tag Bar (Page1929)
How to Transfer STEP 7 Symbols (Page1926)
How to Display STEP 7 Symbols (Page1930)
Tag Selection Dialog (Page1920)

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12.7

Diagnostic Support

12.7.1

Diagnostic Support

Introduction
With the network entry jump and the entry jump into the hardware diagnostics, you can jump
directly into STEP 7 from WinCC Runtime. This allows you to diagnose faults quickly and easily.
You can configure the following jumps:
Network entry jump into the program editor LAD/FBD/STL of STEP 7. You can perform the
entry jump with or without the operator authorization check.
Network return jump from the STEP 7 program editor into the picture in which the process
tag belonging to the symbol is used.
Entry jump to the STEP 7 Hardware Diagnosis function of the respective AS. The entry
jump can be completed with or without check of the access authorization.

See also
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)
Network Return (Page1941)

12.7.2

Network Entry Jump

12.7.2.1

Network Entry Jump

Introduction
With the network entry jump, you can jump directly from WinCC Runtime into the appropriate
program editor LAD / FBD / STL of STEP 7 with the focus on the STEP 7 symbol belonging
to the process tag. This allows you to diagnose faults quickly and easily.
You can configure the network entry jump with or without operator authorization check.

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With Operator Authorization Check

For full access to the program editor of STEP 7, you must be logged on at the system and
have the authorization required for the network entry jump in Runtime. If you do not have this
authorization, you are only granted read access to the blocks in the program editor.

Without Operator Authorization Check

You have read and write access to all blocks in the program editor.

See also
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
Network Return (Page1941)

12.7.2.2

Requirements for the Network Entry Jump

Introduction
During configuration, it is important to remember that a network entry jump is only possible
under certain conditions.

Requirements:
The Compile OS function must have been executed.
A reference list must have been generated in the S7 program.
If an operator authorization with a dedicated operator control level is to be configured, this
level must have been created using the User Administrator.
Since the entry jump is performed using a process tag, this process tag must exist in the
S7 connection created by the Compile OS function. STEP 7 symbols can be compiled
implicitly in the tag selection dialog.

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See also
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)
Network Return (Page1941)

12.7.2.3

How to Configure the Network Entry Jump

Introduction
In WinCC, you use the Dynamic Wizard to configure the network entry jump at an object created
in the Graphics Designer.

Requirements
See: Requirements for the Network Entry Jump

Procedure
1. Insert a graphic object such as a "button" into the picture.
2. Select the object.
3. Start the Dynamic Wizard by choosing "View >Toolbars" from the menu.
4. Open the "Network Entry Jump" wizard on the "Standard Dynamics" tab by double-clicking.

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5. The wizard then guides you through the necessary configuration steps. Select the trigger
with which the network entry jump is to be executed. Then click "Continue".

6. Select an attribute of the object such as "ToolTipText". This attribute is connected to the
tag selected in the following step.

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7. Now set the tag for which the network entry jump is to apply. Click the selection button to
open the tag selection dialog. Select a tag and then close the dialog box by clicking "OK".
Then click "Continue".

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8. Set whether the STEP 7 write authorization is to be checked when the network entry jump
is performed. If you want a check to be performed, you must also set the authorization level.
Then click "Continue".

9. An overview of the options you have selected is displayed. Check the options and then
click "Finish".
If in Runtime you then select the button you have just configured, the program editor LAD /
FBD / STL of STEP 7 is opened and the place of use of the selected tags is displayed.

See also
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)
Network Return (Page1941)

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12.7.3

Network Return

Introduction
With the network return jump, you can jump from a STEP 7 symbol to the place of use of the
associated WinCC tags. The relationship of STEP 7 symbols to WinCC tags is established
using the cross reference list of WinCC.

Configuration Rule
Please observe the following when configuring your WinCC pictures and picture windows in
which you have also used STEP 7 tags:
It is advisable to use only basic pictures in the entire WinCC project.
If you want to use picture window systems, you must ensure that all calls of the network
entry jump and all possible return jump destinations are configured on the same picture
level. That is to say, either within basic pictures, or within picture windows in basic pictures,
or within picture windows in picture windows. Possible return jump destinations are all
pictures in which tags are used that are also used in STEP 7.

Requirements
The WinCC pictures and picture windows must observe the configuration rule.
A network entry jump out of WinCC must have been performed.
The cross reference list of the WinCC project must be up-to-date.

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Procedure
1. Select the desired symbol in the program editor LAD / FBD / STL.

2. Choose the Show Picture option on the context menu.

3. If the symbol is used in just one picture, this picture is opened and displayed in
Runtime.
If the symbol is used in more than one picture, you can select the desired picture using a
selection list.

If the selected symbol is not used in any picture, you can view the current picture in Runtime.

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See also
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)

12.7.4

Jump to Hardware Diagnosis

12.7.4.1

Jump to Hardware Diagnosis

Introduction
The entry jump into the hardware diagnostics enables you to jump directly from WinCC
Runtime into the STEP 7 function Hardware Diagnostics of the associated AS. It therefore
allows faults to be diagnosed quickly and easily.
You can configure the entry jump into the hardware diagnostics with or without operator
authorization check.

With Operator Authorization Check

For full access to the hardware diagnostics of STEP 7, you must be logged on at the system
and have the authorization required for the entry jump in Runtime. If you do not have this
authorization, only read access is possible.

Without Operator Authorization Check

You have full access to the hardware diagnostics.

See also
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)
Network Return (Page1941)

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12.7 Diagnostic Support

12.7.4.2

Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis

Introduction
During configuration, it is important to remember that an entry jump into the hardware
diagnostics is only possible under certain conditions.

Requirements:
The Compile OS function must have been executed.
If an operator authorization with a dedicated operator control level is to be configured, this
level must have been created using the User Administrator.
The connection parameters for the AS must have been determined using a process tag. A
process tag must therefore exist in the S7 connection created during the Compile OS
operation. STEP 7 symbols can be compiled implicitly in the tag selection dialog.

See also
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)
Network Return (Page1941)

12.7.4.3

How to Configure the Entry Jump into the Hardware Diagnostics

Introduction
You can configure the entry jump into the hardware diagnostics at an object created in the
Graphics Designer. A separate wizard for the entry jump into the hardware diagnostics is not
available which means that you have to use and modify the "Network Entry Jump" wizard.

Requirements
See: Requirements for Entry Jump into Hardware Diagnostics.

Procedure
1. Insert a graphic object such as a "button" into the picture.
2. Select the object.
3. Start the Dynamic Wizard by choosing "View >Toolbars" from the menu.

1944

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Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager

12.7 Diagnostic Support
4. Open the "Network Entry Jump" wizard on the "Standard Dynamics" tab by double-clicking.

5. The wizard then guides you through the necessary configuration steps. Select the trigger
with which the network entry jump is to be executed. Then click "Continue".

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1945

Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager

12.7 Diagnostic Support
6. Select an attribute of the object such as "ToolTipText". This attribute is connected to the
tag selected in the following step.

7. Set the tag via which the entry jump is to be performed. Click the selection button to open
the tag selection dialog. Select a tag and then close the dialog box by clicking "OK". Then
click "Continue".

1946

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Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager

12.7 Diagnostic Support
8. Specify whether or not to check the STEP 7 write authorization upon network entry jump.
If you want a check to be performed, you must also set the authorization level. Then click
"Continue".

9. An overview of the options you have selected is displayed. Check the options and then
click "Finish".
10.When the entry jump is configured, a script is created which executes the jump. You must
rewrite this script for a jump into the hardware diagnostics. To do so, open the Pop-up menu
of the objects which you are using, and choose the "Properties" option to open the "Object
Properties" dialog box.

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1947

Integration of WinCC in SIMATIC Manager

12.7 Diagnostic Support
11.Open the "Event" tab and navigate to "Button > Mouse > Mouse Action".

12.Double-click the symbol in the "Action" column. The editor opens and displays the script.

13.Replace the entry "GetKopFupAwl" with "HWDiag".

14.Close the dialog box and compile the changed script.
You can return to WinCC after entering hardware diagnostics by closing the hardware
diagnostic program, or by pressing <ALT>+<TAB>.

1948

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12.7 Diagnostic Support

See also
Prerequisites for Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1944)
Jump to Hardware Diagnosis (Page1943)
How to Configure the Network Entry Jump (Page1937)
Requirements for the Network Entry Jump (Page1936)
Network Entry Jump (Page1935)
Network Return (Page1941)

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1949

Index
, 1347, 1352, 1815
Dialogs for changing attributes, 1576

3D bar:Changing 3D Bar, 575

Adapt picture, 450
Application window:Changing application windows,
513
Attribute
Add, 628
Attribute Name, 629
Delete, 628
Attribute:Attribute change, 434
Attribute:Attribute display, 428
Bar pattern, 443
Bar:Bar color (0 to 10), 458
Bar:Bar depth, 438
Bar:Bar direction, 230, 438, 541, 544, 606
Bar:Bar scale, 544
Bar:Bar scaling, 457, 544
Bar:Bar width, 438
Bars:Defining bar segments, 544
Button:Configuration, 586
Button:Display buttons in the menu, 262
Button:Inserting, 585
C action
Exporting, 882
Dynamizing:C action, 815
Flash frequency:Background Flash Frequency, 448
Flash frequency:Flash Picture Flash Frequency,
456
Flash frequency:Line Flash Frequency, 448
Flash frequency:Text Flash Frequency, 448
Flash Picture:Flash Picture Referenced, 456
Flashing:Flashing Border Active, 448
Flashing:Flashing Line Active, 448
Flashing:Flashing Text Active, 448
FunctionTrendControl
Configuring a trend window, 1279
I/O field:I/O Field Configuration, 530
I/O field:Inserting an I/O Field, 527
Library object
Convert, 652
Library object:save, 646
Line:Line termination, 478

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Object:Deleting Objects, 398

Object:Grouping Objects, 614
Object:Mirroring Objects, 395
Object:Positioning Objects, 390
Opening, 334
Picture
Delete, 221
Note, 119
Saving a picture under a different name, 282
Picture Window
Insert, 516
Picture: Status On, 455
Picture:Assigning, 554
Picture:Deleting, 554
Picture:Finding, 610
Picture:Open, 281
Picture:Referenced, 454
Picture:Status Deactivated, 455
Property group
Selecting, 625
Status off, 450
Status on, 450

"
"Adapt toolbar" window, 277
"Bar Configuration" dialog, 541
"Button Configuration" dialog, 586
"Computer Properties" dialog, 112, 114, 117, 119,
122, 124, 126
"Default objects configuration" tab, 267, 269
"Default Objects" dialog, 267
"Direct Connection" dialog, 421
"Dynamic Value Ranges" dialog, 411
"Edit action" dialog, 412
"Edit VBS action" dialog, 414
"Event" Tab, 431, 621, 632
"Filling" Property Group, 453
"General" tab, 112, 114
"Graphics Runtime" tab, 112, 119, 122, 124, 126
"Grid" Tab, 254
"I/O Field Configuration" dialog, 530
"Library" dialog, 650
"Linking of the Tag Connection" dialog, 418
"Linking of the Tag" dialog, 418
"Menu / Toolbars" tab, 262
"Miscellaneous" property group, 450
"Object OLL" dialog, 216

1951

Index

"Object Properties" Window, 379, 408, 424, 426, 428,

431, 433
Keeping the "Object properties" window in the
foreground, 424
"Options" tab, 256
"Parameters" tab, 112, 117
"Picture" Property Group, 454
"Picture" selection dialog, 610
"Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control"
tab:Clock Control tab, 352
"Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock
Control"Background picture, 354
"Properties of WinCC Slider Control" Tab:"Delete"
tab, 375
"Properties of WinCC Slider Control" Tab:tab
Properties:"Properties of WinCC Slider Control", 373
"Properties" dialog, 629
"Properties" Tab, 408, 428, 621
"Show/hide" tab, 264
"Siemens HMI Symbol Library" Folder, 655
"Slider Configuration" dialog, 598
"Startup" tab, 112
"Status display Configuration" dialog, 553
"Styles" property group, 443
"Tags Project:" dialog ...", 416
"Text entry" dialog, 434
"Text List Configuration" dialog, 559
"Theme selection" dialog, 625
"Value input" dialog, 434
"Visible layers" tab, 260

.
.NET control, 376
.NET Control, 509
.NET Framework 2.0, 376
.NET Framework 3.0, 377

@
@NOP, 817
@NOSP, 817
@NOTP, 817

2
2D coordinate system, 230

1952

3
3D Bar, 509
3D bar:Inserting 3D Bar, 575
3D Border Color Top, 441
3D border weight, 443
3D coordinate system, 230
3D effects, 371
3D Shadow Color, 441

A
Access rights, 1837
Preventing unauthorized access, 1837
Ack reset, 925
Ack system, 925
Acknowledgement, 922
Central signaling device, 922
Acknowledgement status, 887
Acknowledgement theory, 887, 922
Acknowledgement-triggered reporting, 887
Acknowledging, 887
Acknowledgement theory, 887, 922
Group acknowledgement, 887
Initial-value message, 887
New-value message, 887
Single acknowledgement, 887
Single message, 887
Acknowledging message, 1851
Acknowledgment bit, 928, 935
of a group message, 974
of a message, 928, 935
Acknowledgment mask, 450
Acknowledgment Of Messages, 887, 935
Acknowledgement tag, 887
Acknowledgment tag, 935
Acknowledgment tag, 935, 974
of a group message, 974
of a message, 935
Acquisition cycle, 1127
configuring a new timer, 1151
Action, 412, 431
Action editing, 1851
Action icon, 410
Action types, 1680
For the project documentation, 1680
Activating, 128, 657
Activating apply values on exit, 560
Activating cover page, 1585
Activating edit mode, 634

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Activating final page, 1585

Active layer, 242
Active layer:Layer, 294
ActiveX controls, 509
Adding to the Object Palette, 218, 329
Removing from Object Palette , 218, 329
Adapt border, 450
Adapt size, 450
Adapt Size, 468
Adapting the Value Range and Operation of a Slider,
600
Adding groups, 1815
Adding OCXs, 218, 329
Adding/removing columns, 899
Additional Tasks / Applications, 116
Adjusting margins in the line layout, 1710
Adjusting number of columns in the line layout, 1710
Adjusting page size in the line layout, 1710
Adjusting table width in the line layout, 1710
Adjusting to landscape, 1581
Adjusting to portrait, 1581
Adopting selected zoom value for all layers, 264
Alarm, 336, 918
Alarm control
Configuring in Graphics Designer, 1018
Configuring message blocks, 1018
Configuring the hit list, 1029
Configuring the message line, 1018
Configuring the parameters, 1018
Fixed selection, 1018, 1046
Message window parameters, 1018
Operation in Runtime, 1091
Selection, 1018, 1046
Toolbar, 1091

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Alarm Control, 1014, 1070, 1084

Column properties, 1084
Configuration of message tags, 1075
Configuring in the Graphics Designer, 1077
Configuring message blocks, 1077
Configuring message blocks and message lines,
1016
Configuring the message line, 1077
Configuring the parameters, 1077
Configuring the toolbar, 1077
Emergency acknowledgement of messages,
1102
Example of configuration, 1055, 1056, 1059,
1061, 1067, 1068, 1071, 1264
Format, 1084
Hit list, 1084, 1106
integer, 1084
Locking messages, 1096
Message blocks, 1016, 1072
Parameters of message window, 1077
Selection of messages, 1093
Toolbar, 1025, 1077, 1196, 1239, 1293
Alarm limit, 542
Alarm logging, 1776
Multilingual messages, 1776
Switching language, 1776
Switching languages, 1728
Alarm message, 887
Alarm window, 887, 894, 1005, 1014, 1070
Configuring, 1005
Hit list, 887
Lock list, 887
Long-term archive list, 887
Message list, 887
output of archive data, 1005
Short-term archive list, 887
AlarmColor, 336

1953

Index

AlarmControl
Configuring in Graphics Designer, 1015
Configuring operator messages, 1031
Configuring the data export operation, 1034, 1204,
1246, 1300
Configuring the status bar, 1025, 1196, 1239,
1293
Configuring the toolbar, 1025, 1196, 1239, 1293
Emergency acknowledgment of messages, 1050
Locking and enabling messages, 1048
Online configuration, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Operation in Runtime, 1042
Properties of the table elements, 1021, 1192
Selecting messages, 1046
Sorting by column header, 1021, 1024, 1192,
1195
Status bar, 1045
Table element colors, 1022, 1193
Toolbar, 1042
AlarmCorntrol
SQL statements for message filtering, 1038
Alarms, 997
archiving, 997
reloading after power failure, 1007
Align, 392
Object in width and height, 241
Object in width or height, 241
Align / within the layer, 403
Aligning, 392
Objects, 241
Aligning objects, 1568
Alignment, 438, 457, 544, 598, 600, 606, 1581
Alignment palette, 241, 1520, 1533, 1568
all the way to the back, 403
all the way to the front, 403
All Themes, 625
Alpha, 230, 438
Alpha cursor, 678
Alpha-Cursor, 677
Analog alarm, 887, 984
Analog display, 350
Angle of rotation, 1581
Angle settings, 438, 1581
Application Window, 509, 513
Application window:Inserting application windows,
513
Applications, 111, 116, 418
External applications, 111
Apply on Exit, 459, 531
Apply on Full, 531
Applying tag properties, 1356
PCS 7, 1356

1954

archive, 1175
configuration, 1175
Archive
Disconnecting, 1181
linking, 1002
Linking, 1180
Archive backup
Disconnecting, 1181
Linking, 1180
Archive controlling, 1854
Archive data, 1005
output in message window, 1005
Archive database, 1136
Archive editing, 1851
Archive report, 887, 1484, 1529
Archive report object, 1654, 1655, 1661
Changing, 1654
Insert, 1654
Inserting, 1655, 1661
modify, 1655, 1656, 1661
Archive selection for the project documentation,
1682
Archive tag, 1120, 1150
analog, 1120
binary, 1120
configuring, 1150
creating, 1150
naming of process-controlled tag, 1167
Archive tags, 1323, 1394
Archive tags selection for the project documentation,
1684
Archive value editing, 1851
Archives , 1671
Archiving, 994, 997, 1134
Acyclic, 1133
at value change, 1133
configuring messages for archiving, 997
Cyclic, 1129
cyclic-selective, 1131
of messages, 994
process-controlled, 1134
Archiving cycle, 1127
configuring a new timer, 1151
Archiving messages, 887
Archiving methods, 1126, 1182
Acyclic, 1126, 1182
Compression, 1126, 1182
Cyclic, 1182
cyclic continuous, 1126
cyclic-selective, 1126
process-controlled, 1126
Arrow buttons, 216, 625

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Asian, 1730
Configuring, 1730
Assigning computer, 1823
Assigning message blocks, 1656, 1713
In message sequence report, 1713
Assigning user, 1825
Assigning user hierarchies in PCS7, 1819, 1831
Assigning:Assigning objects to layers, 242
Assignment, 242, 459, 560, 562, 563, 564
Deleting assignments, 562
Sorting assignments, 562
Assignment of message blocks, 1713
Assignment:Configuring assignments, 560
Assignment:Defining assignments, 564
Assignment:Deleting assignments, 563
Assignment:Sorting assignments, 563
Attribute, 428, 434, 437, 629, 1573, 1581
Changing, 1576
Configuring Attributes of a Customized Object,
628
Dynamizing, 408
Attribute display, 1573
Attribute name, 1573
Attribute:Making Attributes Dynamic, 407
Attributes, 1677
Output of not connected, 1677
Output with action connection, 1677
Output with tag linking, 1677
Audio alarm, 1465
Project documentation, 1465
Authorization, 450, 469, 1818, 1827, 1829, 1831,
1851, 1853, 1854
Authorization for area, 1854
Automatic hide, 945, 975
Automatic logout, 1827, 1829
Auto-Scrolling, 1024, 1195
Autostart, 135
Setup, 135
Available Graphic OLLs, 216
Average, 1335, 1371
Average value, 450
Axes, 1338, 1340, 1342
Display in FunctionTrendControl, 1277
Display of Staggered Trends, 1382
Display with common axes, 1378
Display with Different Axes, 1378
Display with logarithmic axes, 1380
Representation of Staggered Trends, 1342
Representation Using Common Axes, 1340
Representation Using Different Axes, 1340
Axis, 457, 1222, 1227
Axis Label, 369

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Axis section, 457, 544

B
back, 403
Background, 345, 443
Background color, 347, 352, 441, 1579
Background picture, 363, 375
backup, 1000
of message archive, configuring, 1000
Bar, 230, 438, 443, 457, 458, 509, 541, 542, 544,
606
Bar depth, 1581
Bar Graph, 369
Bar:Bar background color, 441
Bar:Bar height, 438
Bar:Changing, 539
Bar:Configuration, 541
Bar:Inserting, 539
Bars:Bar color, 441, 458, 542
Base X, 438, 1581
Base Y, 438, 1581
Basic colors, 244, 272, 347, 352, 373, 1539
Basic Dynamic Operations, 407
Basic operations, 380, 407
Basic Picture, 554
Basic Picture Transparent Color, 456
Basic Picture:Basic Picture Referenced, 456
Basic Picture:Basic Picture Transparent Color On,
456
Basic Process Control, 54
Basic settings, 228, 254, 1543
Page layout editor, 1543
Basic Settings:The Basic Settings of the Graphics
Designer, 254
Basic Static Operations, 380
Behavior, 124
Beta, 230, 438, 1581
Binary, 533, 563
Binary tag, 176
Bit, 564
BIT, 176
Bit Number, 459
Bit pattern group display, 450
Bit Position, 553, 606
Bold, 446
Border, 371, 441, 443, 448, 450, 468
Border style, 443
Border weight, 443
Border width, 443
Border:Border background color, 441
Border:Border color, 441

1955

Index

Border:Flashing Border Color Off, 448

Border:Flashing Border Color On, 448
Box alignment, 443
Browsing, 354, 363, 375
Buffer range, 1442, 1474
Button, 216, 226, 262, 434, 583, 585, 586, 610, 1208,
1250, 1304
Button Color, 441
Button:"Floppy disk" button, 216
Button:"Preview" button, 216
Button:"Statistics" button, 226
Button:Changing, 585
Buttons, 39, 1541
Adding, 1541
Removing, 1541
Restoring, 1541
WinCC Explorer, 39
Byte, 178

C
C action, 412, 815
Create, 879
Import, 882
modify, 883
C action:exporting, 886
C action:importing, 886
C editor, 1460
Project documentation, 1460
Cache, 128
For Runtime Pictures, 128
Calculating statistics, 1335, 1371
Calculation, 1585
Calling direct help for the "Object Properties" window,
424
Calling PrtScr.exe, 1502
Calling selection dialog, 1668
Came In, 461
Came In Acknowledged, 461
Can Be Closed, 468
Cell
Copying, 1758
Center, 392
Objects, 241
Center Point Size, 356
Centering objects, 1568
Central color palette, 272
Definition, 248, 249
Edit, 249
Export, 251
Import, 251
Central date and time formatting, 64

1956

Central signaling device, 922

Change
Customized menu, 664
Change color, 450
Change Color, 542
Change Column Width, 1625
In ODBC database table object, 1625
Change Orientation, 464
Change output value, 560
Change Picture on Mouse Click, 586, 606
Changing, 128, 434
Attribute, 1576
Background color, 1579
Color, 1579
Corner, 1587
Dynamic text, 1692
Editing object:ObjectTagObjectTag , 1629
Embedded layout, 1618
Fill pattern, 1588
Fill pattern color, 1579
Fonts in objects, 1585
Line color, 1579
Line termination, 1587
Line type, 1588
Line weight, 1588
Miscellaneous object properties, 1586
Object name, 1578
Object properties, 1570
Object size, 1583
Page layout, 1554
Static metafile, 1616
Styles, 1588
System objects, 1631
Toolbar and palettes, 1546
User archive runtime table, 1658
Changing compressed archive
Edit object:object Process value archive:output of
configuration data , 1682
Changing connection, 506
Editing object:object connection output , 1691
Changing corner radii, 502
Changing flashing attribute, 554
Changing fonts of objects, 1585
Changing group display, 578
Changing language, 1797, 1800, 1802
Configuration (example), 1800
Configuring, 1797
In runtime, 1797
In runtime (example), 1802
Changing miscellaneous properties, 1586
Changing object size, 1583

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Index

Changing output options, 1664

CSV provider trend, 1664
for WinCC Alarm Control, 1649, 1651
for WinCC Function Trend Control, 1645, 1647
for WinCC Online Table Control, 1635, 1638
In CSV provider table, 1662
WinCC Online Trend Control, 1640, 1643
Changing password, 1816
Changing source text
Action types for the project documentation , 1680
Changing Text Contents of Objects, 405
Changing text input mode, 901
Changing the Contents of the Static Text, 504
Changing the Position of an Object, 403
Char, 177
Characteristics, 1570
Characters, 152, 1718
Illegal characters, 152
Permitted, 1718
Check box, 583, 589
Check Box:Change Check box, 589
Check Box:Insert Check box, 589
Checking chipcard, 1836
Chipcard, 1833, 1834
Chronological messaging, 887
Circle, 475, 489, 1527
Drawing, 1598
modify, 1598
Circle:Change circle, 489
Circular arc, 475, 493, 1527
Drawing, 1606
modify, 1606
Circular arc:Changing a circular arc, 493
Circular arc:Drawing a circular arc, 493
Clear:Clear on Invalid Input, 459, 531
Clear:Clear on New Input, 459, 531
Client, 1118
Client project, 48
Clipboard, 296, 298, 399, 400, 401, 402
Clock, 352
Clock control, 350
Clock Control, 320, 349, 354
Closable, 450
Code page, 1719
Color, 272, 347, 352, 361, 373, 434, 441, 1579
Changing, 1579
Color attribute, 347
Color custom color , 347
Color group, 347, 352, 361, 373

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Color palette, 244, 272, 352, 361, 373, 1520, 1536,

1539
Central color palette, 272
Edit central, 249
Color"User-defined color, 347
Color:High Limit Color, 441
Color:Low Limit Color, 441
ColorChanging
Font color , 1579
Colors, 1539
indexed, 248, 272
Property group, 1580
Column formatting, 1706
In line layout, 1706
Columns, 1573
COM object, 1509
COM server, 1509
Output of data, 1509
Printing data, 1492
COM server objects, 1531
Combined Objects, 378, 613
Combining the alpha and tab order cursors in a
picture, 677
Combo box, 509
Comment, 907, 938
Communication, 71
Time settings, 64
WinCC V5, 64
Communication driver, 162, 174
Compilation
Display Log, 1910
compile, 1743, 1807
Text , 1743, 1807
Component list editor, 1468
Project documentation, 1468
Compressed archive, 1135, 1147, 1682
Configuring, 1147
Mode of Operation, 1135
Output of configuration data, 1682
Compressed archive tag Process value archive tag,
1684
Compression, 1136
Compression tag, 1120
Computer, 59
Changing computer name, 59
Specifying properties, 59
Computer Name, 114, 657
Computer type, 114

1957

Index

Configuration, 995, 1144, 1174, 1175, 1433, 1545

analog archive tag, 1159
archive, 1144, 1175
Archive tag, 1150
binary archive tag, 1153
Compressed archive, 1147
compressed tag, 1150, 1170
Data buffer, 1174
Menus and toolbars, 659
Object selection, 1545
Process value archive, 1144, 1175
process-controlled tag, 1150, 1167
Reports in line layout, 1435
Reports in page layout, 1433
Configuration dialog, 256, 1476
Calling, 1476
Use configuration dialog, 256
Configuration Dialog, 610, 621, 655
Configuration dialog:"Properties of Siemens HMI
Symbol Library", 655
Configuration Dialog:Customized Object, 621
Configuration file, 659
Menus and toolbars, 659
Configuration on a Customized Object, 621
Configuration settings, 1545
Configured languages, 450
Configuring, 1718, 1730
For multiple languages, 1722
Message archive, 995
With non-Latin fonts, 1730
Configuring change picture, 588
Configuring data buffer, 1174
Configuring message types, 578
Configuring messages, 903
Interconnection Wizard, 937
System Wizard, 904
Configuring operator messages, 1031
Configuring OS reference, 1876, 1885
Configuring replacement printer, 1442
Configuring rotation in Runtime, 478, 481, 504
Configuring size of the ellipse segment, 495
Configuring the length of the circular arc, 493
Configuring window contents and template, 513
Connected Objects, 464
Connection Type, 438, 464, 506
Connection Type:Automatic, 438, 506
Connection Type:Simple, 438, 506
Connector, 475, 506
Connector:Changing a connector, 506
Connector:Inserting connectors, 506
Constant, 421
Content of clipboard, 401

1958

Control, 335, 349, 355, 368, 520, 646

Deregistering, 332
Inserting, 325
Registering, 332
Control character in CSV files, 1498, 1696
Control properties, 336
Control selection, 218, 329
Controls, 320
Selecting OCXs, 218, 329
WinCC Alarm Control, 1014, 1070
WinCC Digital/Analog Clock, 349
WinCC Gauge Control, 355
WinCC Online Table Control, 1186
WinCC Online Trend Control, 1316
WinCC Slider Control, 368
Controls"Control, 340
Controls:WinCC Digital Analog Clock, 349
Controls:WinCC Gauge Control, 355
Controls:WinCC Slider Control, 368
ControlsControl , 340
Converting pictures, 212, 286
Coordinate origin, 1559
Coordinate system, 228, 230, 1559
Coordinate system:Coordinate origin, 228
Coordinate system:Coordinate System of a Process
Picture, 228
Coordinate system:Coordinate System of an object,
230
Coordinated universal time, 64
Copying, 298, 400, 1758
from individual lines in the text library, 1759
from individual texts in the text library, 1758
Lines in the Text Library, 1759
Copying multiple messages, 967
Copying of page layouts, 1556
Corner, 443, 481, 483, 1587
Corner radius X, 438, 1581
Corner radius Y, 438, 1581
Corner:Adding corners, 481, 483
Corner:Changing corners, 481, 483
Corner:Deleting corners, 481, 483
Corner:Moving corners, 481, 483
Corners, 1592
Adding polygon, 1592
Adding polyline, 1593
Deleting polygon, 1592
Deleting polyline, 1593
Moving polygon, 1592
Moving polyline, 1593
Cover sheet, 1433
Create
Customized menu, 662

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Create from file, 522, 524

Create new, 522, 526
Creating a New Picture, 280
Creating a table in the line layout, 1712
Creating Analog Archive Tag, 1159
Creating Binary Archive Tag, 1153
Creating Compressed Tag, 1170
Creating footer, 1711
In line layout, 1711
Creating header, 1711
In line layout, 1711
Creating picture components, 827
Creating process-controlled tag, 1167
CSV file, 1498, 1696
Control characters, 1498, 1696
Example for the Output, 1496
File structure, 1498, 1696
Output in table format, 1498, 1696
Output in trend format, 1498, 1696
Reporting, 1662
Requirements, 1498, 1696
CSV file structure, 1498, 1696
CSV provider, 1529
Report table, 1529
Trend report, 1529
CSV provider table, 1662
- outputting, 1662
Changing output options, 1662
modify, 1662
process, 1662
CSV provider trend, 1664
Changing output options, 1664
modify, 1664
process, 1664
Reporting, 1664
CSV table, 1492
Printing data, 1492
CSV table selection, 1662
CSV trend selection, 1664
Current, 428
Current language, 629
Current status, 456
Current value X, 438, 1581
Current value Y, 438, 1581
Current window, 421
Cursor Control, 124, 450, 469
Cursor mode, 450
Curve parameter, 1356
Custom Colors, 272, 352, 1539

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Customized Object, 613, 618, 621, 623, 628, 629,

632, 633, 634
Connect with Structure tags, 630
Creating, 620
Working with Customized Objects, 618
Customized Object:Delete, 635
Customizing, 345, 1540
Palette, 1540
Toolbar, 1541
Toolbar and palettes, 1546
Customizing Menu and Toolbars, 262
Customizing object selection, 1545
Customizing the Working Environment, 271
Cut, 296, 399
Cycle, 1127
Cyrillic, 1730
Configuring, 1730

D
Danger color, 359
Danger Display, 359
Data buffer, 1136
Data Connection, 1289
Data export in runtime, 1034, 1204, 1246, 1300
Data Format, 459
Data Selection, 1656, 1713
For message sequence report, 1713
for the archive report, 1656
For the message report, 1656
For the user archive report, 1660
Data source, 416, 608, 1920, 1929

1959

Index

Data type, 174, 411, 533, 535, 536, 537

"Binary" data type, 533
"Decimal" data type, 535
"Hexadecimal" data type, 536
"String" data type, 537
Binary tag, 176
BIT, 176
Byte, 178
Char, 177
Double, 185
Dword, 183
float, 184
floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754, 184
Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754, 185
Long, 181
Raw data tag, 187
Short, 179
Signed 16-bit value, 179
Signed 32-bit value, 181
Signed 8-bit value, 177
Signed byte, 177
signed Dword, 181
Signed word, 179
Text reference, 176
Text tag, 16-bit character set, 187
Text tag, 8-bit character set, 187
unsigned 16-bit value, 180
Unsigned 32-bit value, 183
Unsigned 8-bit value, 178
Unsigned byte, 178
Unsigned Dword, 183
Unsigned word, 180
Word, 180
Data window, 41, 221, 896
Data window of the WinCC Explorer, 209
Date, 349, 1631, 1793
Output in a report, 1631
Showing regional, 1793
Date changed, 224
Date created, 224
Date of last change, 450, 1553
Date/time, 64, 1529
Communication, 64
Controls, 64
Project settings, 64, 66
Runtime documentation, 64
Deactivated buttons in color, 262
Decimal, 535, 562
Decimal Places, 457, 544
Decluttering, 126
Default language, 1719
Default Objects, 267

1960

Default objects configuration, 267, 269, 1543

Default settings of object types, 379
Default settings of objects, 267
Define as welcome screen, 221
Defining footer, 1707
Defining header, 1707
Defining hotkey for hardcopy, 1502
Defining new assignments, 562, 563
Defining number of lines, 1711
Defining printer, 1442
Defining printing range, 1440
Definition of origin, 228, 1559
Delete, 459
Deleting, 354, 363, 398, 531, 983, 1759, 1760
Multiple message texts, 967
Multiple messages, 967
of a group message, 983
of a message, 931
Tag assignment, 967
Deleting authorizations, 1819
Deleting users, 1816
Deleting users/groups, 1816
Delta loading, 76
Depressed, 371
Deregistring, 332
Deregistring control, 332
Design Features
for global design, 94
Design of reports, 1431
Details, 418
Device name, 59
Changing, 59
Diagnosis, 155, 1935, 1941, 1943
Diagnostic information
Server, 151
Diagnostic support, 1935, 1941, 1943
Diagnostics, 1935
Diagnostics data, 151
Diagnostics window, 151
Dial, 350

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Dialog, 334, 1570

"Pointer width" dialog, 350
"Style dialog, 343
Color dialog Custom color, 373
Color palette dialog , 347
Dialog "Insert Control"object name, 322
Dialog Controls:HMISymbolLibrary1.3 , 340
Dialog inserting control Object name, 322
Dialog picture graphic files, 354
Dialog properties of WinCC Gauge Control color
custom color , 361
Dialog properties of WinCC Gauge Control
Danger, 359
Dialog property of WinCC Gauge Control Picture
Graphic files , 363
Digital color foreground color, 352
Digital pointer width , 350
Font dialog , 351, 372
Mouse control dialog , 356
Object properties, 1570
Picture dialog Preview, 375
Properties of WinCC Gauge Control font, 360
Scaling dialog , 369
Style dialog , 343, 345, 371
Value dialog , 357, 370
Dialog:"Properties of WinCC Gauge Control"
dialog"Danger, 359
Dialog:"Properties of WinCC Gauge Control"
dialog"Font, 360
Dialog:"Properties of WinCC Gauge Control"
dialog"Picture"graphic files, 363
Dialog:color palette dialog, 347
Dialog:Dialog "Color"Foreground color, 352
Dialog:Dialog "Color"User-defined color, 373
Dialog:Dialog "Controls:HMI Symbol Library 1.3, 340
Dialog:Dialog "Picture"Graphic files, 354
Dialog:Dialog "Picture"Preview, 375
Dialog:font dialog, 351, 372
Dialog:Mouse Control dialog, 356
Dialog:Properties of WinCC Gauge Control dialog
Color"Custom color, 361
Dialog:Scaling dialog, 369
Dialog:style dialog, 345, 371
Dialog:Value dialog, 357, 370
Digital/Analog clock, 349
Digits to the Left of the Decimal Point, 457, 544
Direct connection, 421, 815
Configuring, 843
Example: picture change in picture window, 844
Direct connection:application examples, 842
Directly edit text contents, 405

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Disconnecting, 1181
Archive backup, 1181
Discrete alarm method, 887
Disk space, 335, 336, 338
Disk Space Control, 320, 335, 336, 338
Display, 345, 351, 360, 372, 450, 469, 1722
Non-translated text in runtime, 1795
Display all shortcuts, 262
Display as drop-down list, 443
Display axis, 230, 438, 1581
Display in front, 1332
Display in trend form, 1338
Display Mouse Pointer, 345
Display move handles, 262
Display objects
Language input, 1764
Language-defined, 1764
Multilingual configuration (example), 1799
Display of archived values, 1334, 1338
Display of Disk Space Control in Runtime, 338
Display of Memory Utilization, 338
Display of messages, 1077
Message blocks, 1077
Selection of messages, 1093
Display of windows, 468
Display options, 345
Display process value, 940
Display Text, 461
Display tips and tricks, 256
Displaying configured dynamics, 226
Displaying the Current Settings, 239
Displaying the Parameter Dialog, 1438
Distribute, 392
Objects, 241
Dividing Line Background Color, 441
Dividing Line Color, 441
Dividing line style, 443
Dividing line weight, 443
Documentation, 1484
Introduction to Runtime documentation, 1484
Messages in Runtime, 1484, 1486
Double, 185
Double arrow, 232

1961

Index

Drawing, 1590
Circle, 1598
Circular arc, 1606
Ellipse, 1596
Ellipse arc, 1604
Ellipse segment, 1600
Line, 1590
Pie segment, 1602
Polygon, 1592
Polyline, 1593
Rounded rectangle, 1610
Square-wave, 1608
Drive, 336, 338
Duplicate, 402
Dword, 183
Dynamic, 428, 1573
Dynamic dialog, 411
Configuring, 848
Example: Color Change Depending on Position,
864
Dynamic dialog:expression, 850
Dynamic dialog:quality code, 859
Dynamic dialog:tag status, 857
Dynamic dialog:valid range, 854
Dynamic dialog:value range, 854
Dynamic display, 1319
dynamic filling, 453
Dynamic log elements, 1476
Dynamic log parameters, 1476
Dynamic margin, 1581
Dynamic objects, 1526, 1528
Dynamic standard objects, 1618
Editing, 1618
Dynamic value ranges, 411
Dynamic Wizard, 240
Picture Functions, 824
SFC, 836
Standard Dynamics, 829
Triggers, 862
Dynamic Wizard Editor, 1937
Dynamic Wizard:import functions, 828
Dynamic Wizard:picture components, 827
Dynamic Wizard:system functions, 835
Dynamics, 226
Dynamics icon, 408
Dynamics of a Process Picture, 226
Dynamizable Parameters, 1476
For the Runtime documentation, 1476
Dynamization of attribute, 1573
Dynamizing
Cyclic Triggers, 819
Dynamizing:C action, 877, 878

1962

Dynamizing:cyclic trigger, 819

Dynamizing:direct connection, 841
Dynamizing:dynamic dialog, 815, 846
Dynamizing:Dynamic Wizard, 822
Dynamizing:event-driven trigger, 819, 822
Dynamizing:tag connection, 815, 838
Dynamizing:tag trigger, 819, 820
Dynamizing:VBS action, 815, 866, 867

E
Edit, 634
Editing, 1333
Dynamic standard objects, 1618
Dynamic text, 1692
Static objects, 1589
Editing actions, 412
Editing embedded file in the OLE object, 522
Editing multiple layouts, 1556
Editing multiple messages, 967
Editor, 146, 1888
Changing language settings, 1888
Opening, 146, 1888
Editor window, 412, 414
Electronic signature
Configuring, 1844
Create, 1844
Creating in a C action, 1847
Creating in a VBS action, 1845
Element, 228, 426
Element:Elements of the toolbar in the "Object
properties" window, 426
Ellipse, 475, 487, 1527
Drawing, 1596
modify, 1596
Ellipse arc, 475, 491, 1527
Drawing, 1604
modify, 1604
Ellipse arc:Changing an ellipse arc, 491
Ellipse arc:Drawing an ellipse arc, 491
Ellipse segment, 475, 495, 1527
Drawing, 1600
modify, 1600
Ellipse segment:Changing an ellipse segment, 495
Ellipse segment:Drawing an ellipse segment, 495
Ellipse:Changing an ellipse, 487
Ellipse:Drawing an ellipse, 487
Embedded layout, 1528, 1618
Emergency acknowledgement, 1102
Emergency acknowledgment, 1050
EMF, 287
emf file viewer, 1450
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

End angle, 438, 1581

Enhancements, 900
Entry jump, 1935, 1943
Evaluate status of tags, 411
Event, 407, 410, 411, 412, 414, 431, 632, 633
Adding events, 633
Deleting events, 633
Events of a customized object, 633
Event of the Expression / Formula, 411
Event:Configuring Events, 407, 410
Event:Event directory, 431
Event:Event display, 431
Event:Event name, 411, 412, 414
Event:Events of a customized object, 632
Events, 1127
Start, 1127
Stop, 1127
Example - "binary" data type, 533
Example - "Decimal" data type, 535
Example of a CSV file Output, 1496
Example:, 338
Examples of configuring an AlarmControl, 1055,
1056, 1059, 1061, 1067, 1068, 1264
Exit edit mode, 634
Exponent display, 457, 544
Export, 287
Color palette, 251
Language-dependent text, 1737
Languages with the same code page, 1736, 1746,
1749, 1751, 1769
Languages with the same codepage, 1778
Languages.csv, 1742
Text from pictures, 1768
Export file
Graphics Designer, 1740
Text Distributor, 1739
Export file Text Library
Structure, 1740
Export Files
Text library, 1739
Exporting Graphics, 287
Exporting messages, 966
Structure of export file, 962
Expression / Formula, 411
Extended, 124
Extended operation, 450
Extended zooming, 450
Eyedropper, 295, 426, 435, 1572, 1577

F
Faceplate type, 256
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Fault, 1442
Printers, 1442
Features, 423
Field type, 459, 530, 531, 559, 606
FIFO buffer, 1136
basics, 1136
File Size, 224
File structure, 155
Fill Level, 453
Fill pattern, 443, 1588
Changing, 1588
Fill pattern color, 441, 1580
Changing, 1579
Filling, 453
Filter, 416, 608, 1921, 1930
Filter criteria, 1660
For the user archive report, 1660
Filter criteria for alarm output, 1515, 1656, 1699,
1713
Filter criteria for the user archive report, 1660
Filter criterion for alarm output, 1515, 1656, 1699,
1713
Filtering text
Text library, 1762
Final page, 1433
Find, 405, 418
Text in the text library, 1760
FindFast.exe, 111
Finding picture, 354
Finding picture , 354
Flash color, 347
Flash frequency, 448, 456
Flash frequency:Border Flash Frequency, 448
Flash Picture, 456, 554
Flash Picture:Flash Picture Transparent Color, 456
Flash Picture:Flash Picture Transparent Color On,
456
Flashing, 448, 456
Flashing attribute, 554
Flashing Background Color Off, 448
Flashing Background Color On, 448
Flashing Flash Picture Active, 456
Flashing of a message, 922
Flashing Text Color Off, 448
Flashing Text Color On, 448
Flashing:Flashing Background Active, 448
Flat style for toolbars, 262
Float, 184
Floating-point number 32-bit IEEE 754, 184
Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754, 185
Floppy disk, 216
Folder structure, 155

1963

Index

Font, 446, 530, 559, 586, 606, 1584, 1729, 1730

Central administration, 1747
Changing fonts of objects, 1584
Configuration, 1729, 1756
Configuring a language, 1756
In multilingual projects, 1729
Special objects, 1729
System requirements, 1729
Font , 351, 372
Font color, 441, 1579
Changing, 1579
Font palette, 245, 1520, 1537
Font size, 351, 446
Font Style, 426, 428
Font styles of the object selection, 426
Font styles to display dynamics and events, 428
Font", 351, 372
Font"Schriftart"Gauge, 360
FontFont
Attributes , 1584
Foreground, 424, 450, 468
Foreign languages, 1687
Format, 375, 1585
Format DLL, 928, 1121
Formatting codes - "binary" data type, 533
Formatting codes - "decimal" data type, 535
Formatting codes - "Hexadecimal" data type, 536
Formatting codes - "String" data type, 537
Formatting Instructions, 938
Formatting text, 1584
Forms of Display, 1375
Formula, 411
Forward, 119
Frame picture, 363
Free, 336
FreePercent, 336, 338
Frequency, 1084
front, 403
Function selection, 412

1964

Function Trend Control, 1373

Archive tags, 1394
Changing configuration, 1403
Common axes, 1378
Data from user archives, 1395
Determining coordinates, 1408
Dynamic display, 1386
Enlarging area, 1410
Forms of Display, 1375
Function of time, 1398
Ideal trend, 1389
Ideal Trend, 1396
Inserting, 1392
Linear interpolation, 1375
Logarithmic scaling, 1380
Online tags, 1393
Operation in runtime, 1402
Properties, 1421
Resolution, 1373
Single values, 1375
Staggered trends, 1382
Starting update, 1405
Static display, 1386
Stepped trend, 1375
Stopping update, 1405
Time range, 1386
Trend on top, 1406
Values of uncertain status, 1387
Values outside the limit range, 1387
write direction, 1384

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

FunctionTrendControl, 1274
Buttons in the Toolbar, 1304
Change the sequence of the displayed trends,
1256, 1309
Configuring the axes in the trend window, 1282
Configuring the axes of trends, 1277
Configuring the data connection of trends, 1289
Configuring the data export operation, 1034, 1204,
1246, 1300
Configuring the evaluation with the RulerControl,
1200, 1242, 1296
Configuring the status bar, 1025, 1196, 1239,
1293
Configuring the toolbar, 1025, 1196, 1239, 1293
Configuring trends, 1235, 1286
Configuring trends for the trend window, 1284
Determining the coordinates of a point, 1309
Displaying a trend in the foreground, 1256, 1309
Online configuration, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Online Configuration, 1307
Operation in Runtime, 1304
Representation Trend Lines, 1275
Resolution, 1274
Using the zoom functions in trend windows, 1311

G
Gauge, 355
Gauge Control, 320, 355, 356, 357, 360, 363
Gear ratio, 1900
Entire OS, 1902
Revisions, 1906
General "Background style", 350
General background style , 350
General measuring range , 357
General"Measuring range, 357
Geometry, 326, 438, 1581
Property group, 1583
Geometry of objects, 1583
GeometryRadiusX , 1581
Global Design
Characteristics, 94
Switch off for computer, 128
Global Library, 212, 646, 653
Converting the global library, 212
Global Scripts, 513
GMT, 64
Graphic files, 375
Graphic Object, 509, 547, 610
Changing Graphic Object, 547
Configuring a graphic object, 547
Inserting Graphic Object, 547
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Graphic OLL, 212, 216

Graphics Designer, 209, 210, 228, 234, 254, 271,
657, 1675, 1764
Creating multilingual pictures, 1764
Export file, 1740
Output of statistics data for pictures, 1675
Switching languages, 1728, 1764
Text filtering, 1762
Graphics Designer:Starting Graphics Designer, 209
Graphics Runtime, 112
Greenwich Mean Time, 64
Grid, 254, 1544
Adjusting distance, 1544
Adjusting grid width, 1544
Display grid, 254
Showing, 1543, 1544
Snapping to, 1544
Group, 613, 614, 615, 616, 617
Group acknowledgement, 887
Group display, 578
Group Display, 509
Group message, 887, 970
Acknowledgement bit, 977
Acknowledgment bit, 974
Acknowledgment tag, 974
Adding single message, 982
Deleting, 983
Group message from message classes, 970
Hide tag, 975
Lock bit, 977, 979
Lock tag, 977, 979
Properties of message class, 970
Properties of message type, 977
Status bit, 971, 979
Status tag, 971, 979
User-defined group message, 978
Group Objects, 504
Group relevant, 450
Group value, 450
Grouping, 405, 418, 614
Relinking, 405, 418
Groups:Ungrouping Groups, 617

H
Handles, 232, 326, 393

1965

Index

Hard copy, 1504, 1528, 1851

Defining area selection, 1621
Defining parameters, 1502
Output in a report, 1501
Output parameter, 1504
Printing, 1492
With a log object, 1501
Hard copy by means of startup list, 1502
Hard copy object, 1621
Changing output options, 1621
Hard disk, 111
Defragmenting, 111
Hard disk capacity, 111, 1442
Minimum value, 1442
setting, 1442
Hard disk drive, 1174
Configuring data buffer, 1174
Hardcopy by means of hotkey, 1502
Hardware diagnostics, 1935, 1943, 1944
Configuring, 1944
Entry jump, 1943
Requirement, 1944
Heading, 450, 468
Height, 326, 438, 1581
Height in pixels, 254
Hexadecimal, 536
Hidden Input, 459, 531
Hide Manually, 945
Hide mask, 945, 975
Hide tag, 945, 975
of a customized group message, 975
Hide/ Show Messages, 887
Hiding, 1540
Palette, 1540
Toolbar, 1540
Hiding Messages, 945
High limit, 458
High Limit Background Color, 441
High limit value, 458
Higher process controlling, 1854
Hit list, 887, 1070, 1084
Configuration, 1029
Hitlist, 1014
Evaluation of operator messages, 1031
Hotkey, 110, 119, 450, 469
Defining, 110
Hard copy, 110
Logging off, 110
Logging on, 110
Hotkey:Configuring Hotkey for Navigation in Runtime,
588
Hotkey:Define Hotkey, 588

1966

Hotkeys, 588
Hysteresis, 450, 542
Hysteresis range, 450
Hysteresis:Hysteresis Range, 542

I
I/O Field, 509, 527, 530
I/O field:Changing an I/O Field, 527
Ideal trend, 1389
Ideal Trend, 1396
Illegal characters, 152
Images, 1677
Output of attributes in a report, 1677
Immediate input, 450
Immediate Input, 531
Import
Color palette, 251
Languages.csv, 1742
Tag, 163
Importing messages, 964
Structure of import file, 962
Importing selections, 1018, 1029
In trends, 1220, 1337
Increasing the number, 592
Index, 438, 446, 464, 1581
Index:Index of the connection point of the first object
connected, 464
Index:Index of the connection point of the object
connected at the end, 464
Indexed colors, 248, 251, 272
Indir., 428
Indirect addressing, 1573
Info text, 938
Initial-value message, 887
Input value into an I/O Field, 531
Insert symbols of the Symbol Library, 340
Inserting, 322, 335, 340, 349, 355, 368, 1658, 1818
Object, 1562
OLE object, 1614
Static metafile, 1616
Static text, 1612
System objects, 1631
User archive runtime table, 1658
Inserting Gauge Control, 355
Inserting group display, 578
Inserting Slider Control, 368
Inserting Symbols of the Symbol Library, 340
Instance, 167
Integration, 1857
Notes on installation, 1857
Required software components, 1857
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Interconnection Wizard, 894, 937

Internal coordinate system, 1559
Interpolation, 1339, 1375
Linear interpolation, 1375
Interval, 336
Invisibility, 473
ISO 8601, 64
Issuing warnings for the cyclic trigger, 256
Italic, 446

J
Jump from one object to the next in Runtime, 677

K
Key combination
Lock, 117
Key combination for hardcopy, 1502
Key function, 1208, 1250, 1304
Key switch, 1822
Keyboard Settings, 247
keys, 124, 681

L
Label Each, 457
Labeling, 355, 370
Labeling attribute, 360, 372
Labeling font, 360
Landscape, 1581
Language, 117, 623, 899, 1719
Add, 1757
Administrating, 1747
Changing in runtime (example), 1802
Changing in WinCC, 1728
Configuring messages, 1781
Creating, 1756
Deleting, 1758
In Alarm Logging, 1776
In runtime, 1795
Remove, 1757
Sample project, 1798
Setting fonts, 1756
Supported , 1718
Term definitions, 1719
Language code
Layout file, 1551
Language expression, 1719
In WinCC, 1719
Language in WinCC, 1719
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Language input, 1764, 1776

In Alarm Logging, 1776
In picture objects, 1764
Language Settings in Runtime, 117
Language support, 1718
In WinCC, 1718
Language switching
In runtime, 1795
Language-dependent text
Exporting, 1737
Languages in WinCC
Example of configuration, 1798
Languages.csv
Structure, 1742
Text Distributor, 1742
Large Tick Marks, 457, 544
Large Tick Marks Length, 457, 544
Latch down, 443
Layer, 242, 290, 293, 294, 403
Layer palette, 242, 294
Layer techniques, 290
Layer Techniques - Principles, 290
Layer:Assigning layers, 293
Layer:Renaming layers, 242, 294
Layers:Making layers visible / invisible, 242
Layout, 1431, 1549
Changing, 1554
Configuration steps, 1548
Copy, 1549
create, 1548, 1549
Create, 1431, 1473, 1548
Design, 1431
Displaying properties, 1433
Edit, 1473, 1548
Editing multiple, 1556
File operations, 1549
New layout, 1549
Showing properties, 1553
Layout file
Language code, 1551
Language-specific, 1790
Layout for output, 1436
Layout for Output, 1438
Layout name, 1529
Output in a report, 1631
Layout object, 1633
Layout of the Graphics Designer screen, 234
Layout properties, 1553
Showing, 1553
Layout size, 1581
Library, 646, 649, 653, 1896
Library object, 613, 646, 652

1967

Index

Library objects:importing into a Picture, 650

License
Invalid, 152
Lifebeat monitoring, 1467
Project documentation, 1467
Light bulb, 408, 1573
Light effect, 443
Lightning, 408
Limit, 458, 541, 542, 575, 598, 606
Limit value, 198
Defining, 198
Limit value monitoring, 984
Deleting a limit value, 991
Deleting tag, 991
Specifying limit value, 989
Specifying message, 985
Specifying tag, 986
Limit value:Limit marker, 458
Limit values, 336, 458, 531, 542
Limit values:Limit markers, 542
Limit values:Limits and type of value inputs of an I/O
field, 531
Limit values:Setting Limit Values, 531
Limit:Configuring limits of the 3D bar, 575
Limit:Limit (0 -10), 458
Limit:Limits of a bar, 542
Line, 441, 443, 448, 475, 478, 483, 1527, 1756
Adding new lines to Text Library, 1756
Copying, 1759
Drawing, 1590
modify, 1590
Line color, 1579
Changing, 1579
Line connection type, 443
Line end, 443
Line end style, 443

1968

Line layout, 1435, 1701

Adjusting margins, 1710
Adjusting number of columns, 1710
Adjusting page size, 1710
Adjusting table width, 1710
Application, 1435
Changing, 1489
Column formatting, 1706
Configuration, 1435
Creating footer, 1711
Creating header, 1711
Defining footer, 1707
Defining header, 1707
For message sequence report, 1489
Margins, 1706
Number of columns, 1706
opening, 1701
Page size, 1706
Printer settings, 1706
Setting margin, 1710
Setting up, 1486
Line layout editor, 1703
Structure, 1703
Table area, 1708, 1709
Toolbar, 1705
Working with, 1710
Line pointer, 350
Line style, 443, 483
Line termination, 483, 1587
Line type, 1588
Changing, 1588
Line weight, 443, 1588
Changing, 1588
Line:Change line, 478
Line:Configure line end style, 478, 483
Line:Draw line, 478
Line:Flashing Line Color Off, 448
Line:Flashing Line Color On, 448
Line:Line background color, 441
Line:Line color, 441
Line:Line style, 478
Linking, 1002, 1180, 1575
archive backup, 1002
Archive backup, 1180
Objects in the page layout editor, 1575
List Background Color, 441
List box, 509, 569
Inserting, 569
List Font Color, 441
List of Hidden Messages, 887, 945, 1100
List type, 459, 562, 563, 564
List Type Decimal, 562

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

List type:List Type "Binary", 563

List type:List Type "Bit", 564
Load online changes
Activating, 85
Avoiding data inconsistencies, 78, 83
configuring, 83
Configuring, 78, 80
Consistent project, 78, 83
Deactivating, 91
Downloading, 83, 87
enable, 85
Limitations, 80
Network failure, 83
Redundant Systems, 81
Requirements, 78, 83, 87
Resetting, 91
Synchronizing projects, 78, 83
Turn Off, 78
WinCC Web Navigator support, 80
Loading changes, 76
Loading default settings of objects, 267
Loading online changes, 76
Principle, 76
LOC, 64
Local time zone, 64
lock, 117
Lock, 463
Key combination, 117
Lock bit, 973, 977, 979
of a group message, 977, 979
Lock list, 887, 1014, 1070
Lock tag, 973, 977
of a group message, 973, 977
Lock window, 1096
Lock:Lock Background Color, 463
Lock:Lock Display, 463
Lock:Lock Display Text, 463
Lock:Lock Text Color, 463
Locking message, 1096, 1851
Alarm Control, 1096
Locking messages, 887, 1096
Active/passive, 887
Alarm Control, 1096
Persistence, 1096
Log, 1910
Showing, 1910
Log objects, 1469
For the online documentation, 1469

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Logging, 1490
Process values, 1490
Tag Table, 1490
Trend, 1490
User archive data, 1491
Logging ODBC database field, 1623
Logging ODBC database table, 1625
Login, 1809, 1838
Complete Username, 1839
Entry, 1838
SIMATIC Logon, 1839
User ID, 1839
Login in Runtime, 1832
Login:in Runtime, 1832
Login:only via chipcard, 1827
Login:only with chipcard, 1829
Login:SIMATIC Logon, 1811
Login:WinCC logon, 1811
Logon
Complete Username, 1844
SIMATIC Logon, 1844
User ID, 1844
Long, 181
Long-term archive list, 887, 1014, 1070
Long-term archive server, 1138
installation (overview), 1138
Loop In Alarm, 943
Low Limit Background Color, 441
Low Limit Value, 458
Lower frame color, 371
Lower limit, 458, 542

M
Main memory, 1174
Configuring data buffer, 1174
Making layers visible / invisible, 294
Making multiple selections, 1565, 1567
Manual hiding, 1100
Margin, 371, 1581
Margins, 1706
In line layout, 1706
Maximizable, 450
Maximum Angle, 357
Maximum value, 357, 370, 450, 544, 600
Maximum, 1335, 1371
Measuring range, 368
Memory capacity, 336
Memory utilization, 338

1969

Index

Menu, 262
customized ~ define for picture, 667
customized ~ define for picture window, 668
User-defined, 659
Menu bar, 36, 1520, 1703
Menu bar of the WinCC Explorer, 209
Menu:Toolbars, 262
Menus and toolbars, 659
Configuration file, 659
Runtime, 659
User-defined, 659

1970

Message, 72, 887, 1072, 1776, 1851

Acknowledgement status, 887
Acknowledgement tag, 887
Acknowledging, 922, 935
Acknowledgment bit, 935
Acknowledgment tag, 935
Active/passive locking, 887
Alarm message, 887
Archiving, 887
Background color, 920
Collapse, 945, 1100
Configuring a message, 887, 894, 927, 1075
Creating, 931
Defining colors, 920
Deleting a message, 931
Display in runtime, 1070
Display process value, 938
Editing multiple messages, 967
Exporting, 966
Flashing, 905, 922
Format DLL, 928
Group message, 887, 970
Importing, 964
in a group message, 982
Incoming message, 887
Initial-value message, 887
Loop In Alarm, 943
Message bit, 928
Message class, 887, 913
Message number, 928
Message status, 887, 933
Message tag, 887, 932, 991
Message text, 938
Message type, 887
Multilingual, 1776
New-value message, 887
Online configuration, 72
Operational message, 887
Outgoing message, 887
Parameters of a message, 928
Priority, 907
Priority of a single message, 928
Processing in the table window, 928
Properties, 928
Reporting, 887
Representation in runtime, 887
Selection, 1084, 1093
Single message, 927
Specifying an action, 943
Status bit, 933
Status tag, 887, 933
Structure of a Message, 887
System message, 887
Text color, 920
Text for message status, 925
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
Visualization in runtime, 1014
System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Message archive, 995, 998, 1485

archive data output in Runtime, 1004
archive partitioning, 998
backup, 1000
Configuration, 998
Configuring, 995
Properties, 995
Reporting, 1485
signing off of backup, 1000
Size, 998
size of archive files, 998
Swapping, 1000
Time frame, 998
Message archive report, 1484
Message archiving, 994
Message bit, 928, 932, 991
of a message, 928
Message block, 887, 894, 905, 1072
Adding, 909
Configuring message blocks, 1016, 1018, 1072,
1077
Duration, 905
Process value block, 887, 905
Removing, 912
System block, 905
System Block, 887
Time of day, 905
User text block, 887, 905
Message class, 887, 913, 1072
Acknowledgement theory, 922
Adding, 915
configuring, 1072
Configuring, 913
Deleting, 917
Fault, 913
Message types of message class, 918, 920
of a message, 913
System without acknowledgement, 913
System, requires acknowledgement, 913
Texts of message statuses, 925
Message editing, 1851
Message event, 887
Message frame, 887
Message line, 887, 1016, 1018, 1077
Message list, 887, 1070
Message List, 1014
Message lists, 1485
Reporting, 1485
Message number, 928
Message object, 1776
Language-defined, 1776
Message Priority, 907

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Message procedure, 887

Analog alarm, 887
Chronological messaging, 887
Discrete alarm method, 887
Limit value monitoring, 984
Message report, 1484
Message Report, 1529
Message report object, 1654, 1655, 1661
Changing, 1654
Insert, 1654
Inserting, 1655, 1661
modify, 1655, 1661
Message sequence report, 887, 1484, 1486, 1489,
1713
Assigning message blocks, 1713
Changing, 1489
Changing output options, 1713
Creating a table in the line layout, 1712
In line layout, 1489
In the page layout, 1489
Output of online data, 1486
Setup, 1486
User-defined, 1489
Message server, 1012
Message status, 887, 925
Acknowledged, 887, 925
Came In, 887, 925
Status tag, 933
Went Out, 887, 925
Message tag, 887, 928, 932, 991
Message type, 887, 1072
Adding, 918
Alarm, 918
Configuring the message type, 918, 920, 921,
1072
Error, 918
Message type of a message, 887
Operator Input Message, 887
Removing, 921
System message, 914
Warning, 918
Message Type, 461
Message Types for Button, 465

1971

Index

Messages, 1484
archive data output in Runtime, 1004
Configuring the hit list, 1029
List of Hidden Messages, 1054
Locking and enabling in AlarmControl, 1048
Manual or automatic hiding, 1054
Multilingual configuration, 1781
Online reporting, 1484, 1486
Persistence for locking, 1048
Selecting messages in AlarmControl, 1046
Sorting the display, 1051
Messages in Runtime, 483
Messages multilingual
Translating, 1777
Metafile, 1616
Changing, 1616
Inserting, 1616
Migration
Time settings, 64
Minimum, 1335, 1371
Minimum Angle, 357
Minimum value, 357, 370, 450, 544, 600
mirroring, 395
Mirroring, 343, 395
Miscellaneous, 450
Miscellaneous , 1585
Missing Text ID
Text Library, 1763

1972

modify, 1680
Attributes, 1677
Circle, 1598
Circular arc, 1606
CSV provider table, 1662
CSV provider trend, 1664
Dynamic metafile, 1693
Dynamic table, 1695
Editing object:object project
documentation:output of user texts, 1687
Editingobject:objectObject:picturestatistics, 1675
Ellipse, 1596
Ellipse arc, 1604
Ellipse segment, 1600
Line, 1590
Object Object:trigger , 1680
Object selection of tag group , 1689
Objects for the project documentation, 1666
OLE object, 1614
Pie segment, 1602
Polygon, 1592
Polyline, 1593
Project value archive object:output of
configuration data , 1684
Rounded rectangle, 1610
Square-wave, 1608
Static text, 1612
User archive runtime table, 1660
Module selection, 414
Modules, 116
Monitor, 458, 542
Monitor keyboard, 128
Monitor:Monitor (0 to 10), 458
Monitoring, 1853, 1854
Mouse pointer, 128
mouseless, 677
Mouseless operation, 677
Movable, 450, 468
Multilingual
Page layout, 1550
Reports, 1550
Multilingual configuration, 1718, 1722
Configuration scenarios, 1718
Editors, 1722
Example, 1798
In WinCC, 1718
Non-translated texts, 1722
Picture object, 1773
Reports, 1786
System requirements, 1722
Text list, 1775

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Multilingual log, 1793

In runtime, 1793
Multilingual message
Configuring in Alarm Logging, 1782
Multilingual message text, 1776
Multilingual messages
External translation, 1777
Multilingual project, 1725
Create, 1725
Multilingual project documentation, 1792
Rules, 1792
Multilingual report
Layout files, 1788
Multiple Pictures, 295
Multiple row text, 509
Multiple selection, 386, 388, 1570
Text library, 1759
with Ctrl+A, 388
With the mouse, 388
Multiple selection of objects, 1565, 1567
Multiple selection:Multiple selection of objects, 386
Multi-user project, 47
Changing project type, 50

N
Name, 152
Illegal characters, 152
Name of Property, 629
Naming conventions, 152, 164, 166
Tag, 163
Navigation, 659
Menus and toolbars, 659
Navigation window, 41, 209, 212, 652, 896, 1827
Navigation window:navigation window of WinCC
Explorer, 209
Network entry jump, 1935, 1936, 1937
Configuring, 1937
Requirement, 1936
Network return, 1941
New picture, 212, 280
New-value message, 887
Non-Latin font, 1730
Notes, 1730
Special features, 1730
Tool, 1730
Nontransparent, 350
Normal, 124
Normal Display, 359
Normal without rollback, 124
Not system text, 1763
Number of boxes, 438
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Number of columns, 1706

In line layout, 1706
Number of corners, 438, 1581
Number of fields, 1581
Number of visible Lines, 459

O
Object, 216, 224, 256, 296, 298, 378, 382, 385, 388,
390, 392, 393, 395, 396, 398, 399, 400, 402, 403, 421,
426, 473, 504, 506, 614, 615, 623, 632, 653, 682, 683,
1501, 1658
Archives, 1671
Connections, 1691
Copying and pasting objects, 256
Dynamic metafile, 1693
Dynamic table, 1695
Dynamic text, 1692
Editing archive report, 1654, 1655, 1656, 1661
Editing message report, 1654, 1655, 1656, 1661
Embedded layout, 1618
Hard copy, 1501, 1621
Layout, 1633
Pasting, 1562
Selecting, 1668
Single messages, 1670
Tags, 1689
Text library text table, 1687
User archive runtime table, 1658
Views, 1673
Object name, 383, 464, 1578
Changing, 1578
Object name:Object Name of the Object Connected
at the beginning, 464
Object name:Object Name of the Object Connected
at the End, 464
Object OLL:Adding Graphic OLLs, 216
Object origin, 228, 1559
Object palette, 238, 378, 473, 1520, 1525
Control selection, 218, 329

1973

Index

Object properties, 424, 435, 1570

Changing, 1570
Changing attribute, 1576
Changing font, 1585
Changing miscellaneous properties, 1586
Changing styles, 1588
Linking objects, 1575
Object property, 424
Opening, 1571
Renaming objects, 1578
Styles, 1587
Toolbar, 1572
Transferring, 1556, 1577
Object properties"window "Open configuration
dialog, 334
Object properties:Object properties, 428, 431
Object properties:Object property, 435
Object propertiesTab, 1573
Object propertiesToolbar
WindowPin, 1572
Object property, 421, 428, 431
Object property:Transferring object properties, 435
Object selection, 256, 1563, 1572
Surrounding, 1565
Touching, 1565
Object selection for the project documentation, 1679
Object size, 1560
Object statistics , 1679
Object transparency, 473
Object type, 256, 426, 623, 679, 1572
Always reset object type selection, 256
Setting object types, 679
Object:Changing static text, 504
Object:Copying Objects, 298
Object:Inserting an Object into a Picture, 382
Object:Number of objects, 224
Object:Object in the picture, 421
Object:Object OLL, 216
Object:Object selection, 216, 426
Object:Rotating Objects, 396
Object:Scaling an Object, 393
Object:Selecting Objects, 385
Objective, 421
Object-OLL:Configuring Graphic OLLs, 216

1974

Objects, 1568
Aligning, 1568
Arranging, 1568
Copying, 1563
Cutting, 1563
Default settings, 1543
Deleting, 1563
Duplicating, 1563
Editing, 1563
Editing dynamic standard objects, 1618
Editing for the runtime documentation, 1634
Editing static objects, 1589
For runtime documentation, 1529
For the project documentation, 1532
Invisible, 473
Linking, 1575
Multiple selection, 1567
Objects of the Object Palette, 473
Positioning, 1563
Scaling, 1563
Working with standard objects, 1589
Objects for the project documentation, 1666
Objects for the runtime documentation, 1634
process, 1634
Objects for the Runtime documentation
WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider, 1634
Objects of the Object Palette, 378
Objects:Changing Objects of a Group, 615
Objects:Connecting objects, 506
Objects:Duplicating Objects, 402
Objects:Importing Objects into the Library, 653
Objects:Transferring objects, 296
OCX display, 256
ODBC data source, 1493
ODBC database, 1493
Printing data, 1492, 1493
Reporting, 1493
ODBC database field, 1528
Defining output options, 1623
Defining SQL statement, 1623
ODBC database table, 1528
Defining column width, 1625
Defining output options, 1625
Defining SQL statement, 1625
OLE object, 509, 522, 524, 526, 1527
Inserting, 1614
modify, 1614
OLE object:Change OLE object, 522
OLE object:Create new OLE object, 526
OLE object:Creating OLE Object from File, 524
OLE object:Edit OLE object, 522
OLE Object:OLE object:Inserting OLE Object, 522

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

One to the back, 403

One to the front, 403
Online, 1484
Changing log output, 1476
Reporting messages, 1484, 1486
Online configuration, 72, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Messages, 72
Online Configuration, 1211, 1253, 1307
Online delta loading, 76
Online reporting, 1486, 1529
Message lists, 1485
Message report, 1485
Overview of objects, 1529
Online Table Control, 1186, 1316
Changing configuration, 1327
configuration, 1321
display of archived values, 1334
dynamic display, 1319
dynamizing time range, 1319
Inserting, 1322
operation in Runtime, 1326
representation formats, 1317
starting update, 1332
static display, 1319
stopping update, 1332
time range, 1319
Online tags, 1393
Online Trend Control, 1357
Changing configuration, 1360
Common axes, 1340
Determine co-ordinate points, 1367, 1408
Display of archived values, 1370
Inserting, 1348
Linear Interpolation, 1339
Online tags, 1351, 1354
Representation formats, 1339
Resolution, 1220, 1337
Single values Online Trend Control:step curve,
1339
Staggered trends, 1342
Starting update, 1365
Stopping update, 1365
Trend on top, 1365
Writer function, 1343
Online Trend Control:configuration, 1347
Online Trend Control:dynamic display, 1343
Online Trend Control:dynamizing time range, 1352
Online Trend Control:enlarging section, 1369
Online Trend Control:static display, 1343
Online Trend Control:time jumps, 1346
Online Trend Control:time overlap, 1346
Online Trend Control:time range, 1343

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

OnlineTableControl, 1186
Buttons in the Toolbar, 1208
Changing the column display in runtime, 1214
Configuring the data export operation, 1034, 1204,
1246, 1300
Configuring the evaluation with the RulerControl,
1200, 1242, 1296
Configuring the status bar, 1025, 1196, 1239,
1293
Configuring the time columns of the table window,
1187
Configuring the toolbar, 1025, 1196, 1239, 1293
Creating statistics in runtime, 1215
Display of archived values, 1215
Editing table fields in runtime, 1213
Marking the selected cells and rows, 1021, 1024,
1192, 1195
Online configuration, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Online Configuration , 1211
operation in Runtime, 1208
Properties of the table elements, 1021, 1192
Sorting by column header, 1021, 1024, 1192,
1195
Start and stop update, 1213
Table element colors, 1021, 1022, 1192, 1193

1975

Index

OnlineTrendControl, 1224, 1278

Buttons in the Toolbar, 1250
Change the sequence of the displayed trends,
1256, 1309
Configuring a trend window, 1225, 1265, 1267,
1270
Configuring the axes of trends, 1222
Configuring the data export operation, 1034, 1204,
1246, 1300
Configuring the evaluation with the
TrendRulerControl, 1200, 1242, 1296
Configuring the status bar, 1025, 1196, 1239,
1293
Configuring the time axes in trend windows, 1227
Configuring the toolbar, 1025, 1196, 1239, 1293
Configuring the value axes in trend windows,
1230
Configuring the value columns of the table
window, 1190
Configuring trends, 1235, 1286
Configuring trends for the trend window, 1233
Creating statistics in runtime, 1260
Determining the coordinates of a point, 1256
Display a trend in the foreground, 1256, 1309
Display of archived values, 1264
Online configuration, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Online Configuration, 1253
Online tags, 1190
Operation in Runtime, 1250
Representation Trend Lines, 1221
Start and stop update, 1255, 1308
Using the zoom functions in trend windows, 1258,
1311
Only Large Tick Marks, 457, 544
Opening, 212, 281, 1519, 1701
Line layout, 1701
Page layout, 1519
Opening library, 646
Opening object properties configuration dialog, 334
Opening the "Settings" window, 254, 256, 264, 267,
269
Operable objects, 677
Operating archives, 1851
Operating elements, 1538
Operating system, 1726
Changing languages, 1726
Requirements for multilingual configuration, 1726
Operating system language, 1719
Operating system user interface language, 1719
Operation, 119, 586, 606, 677
Documenting, 1837
Operation in Runtime, 1091, 1326, 1357, 1837

1976

Operation steps, 450

Operation Steps, 600
Operator activities report, 450
Operator Activities Report, 469
Operator authorization, 1935, 1943
Operator Authorizations, 469
Operator control enable, 450
Operator input message, 450, 469
Operator Input Message, 887
Operator privilege, 1937, 1944
Operator station
Creating, 1880
Operator Station, 1879
Operator-Control Enable, 469
Operator's overview
Text library, 1753
Operator's Overview, 1753
Option, 146
Option:SIMATIC logon, 1827
Option:WinCC logon, 1827
Options, 256
Orientation, 1581
Origin, 228, 1559
Coordinate origin, 1559
Object origin, 1559
OS, 1879
Compiling, 1900
Creating, 1880
OS properties, 1868, 1880
Standby OS properties, 1872
OS project editor, 1467
Project documentation, 1467
OS properties, 1868, 1880
OS ref.WinCC application
ObjectWinCC Appl. Ref.WinCC
application:creating reference , 1876, 1885
OS simulation, 1898
Starting, 1898
Other object properties, 1585
Outer frame, 371
Outline, 345
Output format, 459, 533, 535, 536, 537, 1585
Output medium for print jobs, 1442
Output of CSV file as curve, 1664
Output of CSV file as table, 1662
Output of user-specific data, 1509

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Output options, 1476, 1695

Changing in Runtime, 1476
Defining for the OCBC database field, 1623,
1625
Dynamic table, 1695
Editing object:editObject:object
Object:objectstatistics , 1679
Editing object:editObject:object user archive
selectionforprojectdocumentation , 1671
Editing object:editObject:object
view:configurationdataoutput , 1673
For dynamic metafile, 1693
For dynamic text, 1692
Output parameters for hardcopy, 1504
Output value, 459, 1585
Output/Input, 459
Overview list, 226

P
Package, 1893
Assigning OS server, 1893
Page break, 1585
Page layout, 1433, 1519
Changing, 1554
Configuration, 1433
Copy, 1556
Create, 1473
Displaying properties, 1433
Edit, 1473
For message sequence report, 1489
Multilingual, 1550
Opening, 1519
Page layout editor
Basic settings, 1543
Changing units, 1543
Screen, 1520
Setting options, 1543
Page number, 1529
Output in a report, 1631
Page size, 1706
In line layout, 1706
Page Size in the Line Layout, 1710
Palette, 275, 276, 1540
Adapting, 1540
Hiding, 1540
Moving, 1540
Showing, 1540
Palette:Move palette to the border of the screen, 276
Palette:Moving a palette as a window on the desktop,
276
Paper format, 1581
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Parameter for hard copy, 1502, 1504

Parameters, 112
Parameters of a message, 928
Paste, 296, 298, 401
PC station, 1864, 1865, 1876, 1885
PCS 7
Applying tag properties, 1356
PCS7 System Authorizations, 1855
PDD, 267
Performance, 111
Picture, 119, 122, 221, 278, 280, 281, 282, 284, 286,
354, 363, 375, 434, 450, 454, 455, 554, 610, 658,
1889, 1896
Copy, 282, 1891
Copying to library, 1896
Creating, 1890
Creating model solutions, 1896
Define customized menu, 667
Define customized toolbars, 667
Delete, 1891
Deleting in library, 1896
Exporting text, 1768
Importing, 1892
Moving, 1891
Moving to library, 1896
Navigation, 659
Open, 221
Rename, 221, 282, 1891
Renaming in library, 1896
Picture alignment, 454
Picture Buffer, 119
Picture Buffer Size, 119
Picture Cache, 128
Picture change, 1851
Picture content, 342
Picture cycle, 269
Picture Deact. Referenced, 455
Picture Deact. Transparent color, 455
Picture Deact. Transparent Color On, 455
Picture editing, 1851
Picture file, 224
Picture name, 450
Picture Name, 610
Picture object, 450, 1773
Configuring for multiple languages, 1773
Translating text, 1773
Picture Off Referenced, 455
Picture Off Transparent Color, 455
Picture Off Transparent Color On, 455
Picture offset X, 450
Picture offset Y, 450
Picture On Referenced, 455

1977

Index

Picture On Transparent Color, 455

Picture On Transparent Color On, 455
Picture origin, 228, 1559
Picture properties, 288, 295
Picture Selection with Preview, 606
Picture Size, 224
Picture text
Export, 1768
Picture Tree Manager, 1466
Project documentation, 1466
Picture Window, 509, 516, 610
Change, 516
Define customized menu, 668
Define customized toolbars, 668
Picture: Status Off, 455
Picture:Define picture as start picture, 122
Picture:Deleting, 284
Picture:Saving, 281
Picture:Testing in Runtime, 658
Picture:Transparent Color On, 454
Picture-in-picture method, 827
Pictures, 1764
Generating multilingual, 1764
PicturestatisticsOutputoptions
Changing ObjectProjectdocumentation for picture
statistics, 1675
Pie segment, 475, 497, 1527
Drawing, 1602
modify, 1602
Pie segment:Changing a pie segment, 497
Pie segment:Drawing a pie segment, 497
Pin, 424, 426
Activating Pin, 424
Deactivating Pin, 424
Pinning window to top, 1570
Plant-specific authorizations, 1819
Pointer length, 350
Polling list, 1585
Polygon, 475, 481, 1527
Drawing, 1592
modify, 1592
Polygon line:Changing a polygon line, 483
Polygon line:Drawing a polygon line, 483
Polygon:Changing a polygon, 481
Polygon:Drawing a polygon, 481
Polyline, 475, 483, 1527
Drawing, 1593
modify, 1593
Portrait, 1581
Position font, 372
Position Text, 369
Position X, 328, 438, 1581

1978

Position Y, 328, 438, 1581

Positioning, 328, 403
Power failure, 1007
reloading messages, 1007
Power management, 111
Power tag, 164
Prerequisite for Runtime, 679
Pressed, 443
Preview, 216, 354, 547, 553, 1448
Project documentation, 1448
Print buffer, 1442
Print job, 1438, 1450, 1474
Attitudes, 1442
creating multiple languages, 1790
Edit, 1438, 1452
Features, 1474
Limit conditions, 1436, 1438, 1440
modify, 1452, 1474
opening, 1452, 1474
process, 1474
Properties, 1452
Selecting a time range for the data, 1440
Settings, 1436, 1438, 1440
Supplementary conditions, 1442
Print job list, 1438
Print job properties, 1436, 1438
Print Jobs, 513
Print jobs for project documentation, 1510
Print jobs for Runtime documentation, 1513
Print Jobs in WinCC, 1436
Print margins, 1581
Printer, 1452
Defining, 1452
Select, 1452
Printer buffer range, 1442, 1474
Printer failure, 1442
Printer fault, 1442
Printer settings for line layout, 1706
Printers, 1442, 1474
Defining, 1442, 1474
Selecting, 1442, 1474

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Printing, 111, 1446, 1474, 1670, 1786, 1812

Cyclic printing, 111
Data from COM server, 1492
Data from CSV table, 1492
Data from external application, 1492
Hard copy, 1492
Multilingual project documentation, 1792
ODBC database, 1492, 1493
Project documentation, 1446
Reports in page layout, 1446, 1474
Single messages, 1670
User archive, 1491
WinCC User Archive Control, 1491
Printing CSV trend, 1492
Printing project documentation, 1812
PrintScreen, 1502
Priority, 907
Priority of a single message, 928
process, 1680
Action types for the project documentation, 1680
Attributes, 1677
Compressed archive object:output of
configuration data , 1684
CSV provider table, 1662
CSV provider trend, 1664
Dynamic metafile, 1693
Dynamic table, 1695
Object Object:source text , 1680
Object project documentation:tag selection , 1689
Objects for the project documentation, 1666
Objects for the runtime documentation, 1634
Process control message, 914
Process controlling, 1851, 1853, 1854
Process driver connection, 450
Process picture
Creating Process Pictures, 209
Process picture:Testing Process Pictures in Runtime,
656
Process screen, 656
Process tag, 164, 1120
create, 189
Licensing, 164
Power tag, 164
Usable data types, 164
Process value, 1120
saving in database, 1136
Swapping out, 1138
Process value archive, 1144, 1182, 1322
configuration, 1175
configuring, 1322
Configuring, 1144
Process value archive Process value archive , 1682

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System Manual, 11/2008,

Process value archiving, 1117, 1134, 1182

Acyclic, 1133, 1182
Application, 1117
at value change, 1133
client/server scenarios, 1118
configuration, 1142
Configuration, 1117
Cyclic, 1129, 1182
cyclic-selective, 1131
Event-driven, 1133
Fundamentals, 1117
multi-user projects, 1118
Principle of Operation, 1117
process-controlled, 1134
Term definitions, 1115
Process value block, 905
Adding, 909
Features, 910
Removing, 912
Process value output
As table, 1184, 1315
As trend, 1184, 1315
In process picture, 1184, 1315
In Reports, 1313
Process Value Output, 1184
Process values, 1490
Logging, 1490
Process-controlled tag, 1120, 1121
Processor utilization, 111

1979

Index

Project, 29, 1725, 1888

Activating, 132
Archiving, 138
Basic Process Control, 54
Changing multi-user project into a single-user
project, 50
Changing project type, 49
Changing single-user project into a multi-user
project, 50
client project, 48
Closing, 32
Copy, 139, 145
create, 55
Creating, 51, 55
Data storage, 155
Deactivating, 137
Defining computer properties, 59
Defining hotkeys, 110
Duplicate, 138, 142
Faceplate types, 51
File structure, 155
Folder structure, 155
Imported files, 155
Loading online changes, 76
Multilingual creation, 1725
Multi-user project, 47
Naming conventions, 51
Online configuration, 72
opening, 29
Opening, 1888
Picture hierarchy, 51
preparation for creation, 51
Project path, 51
Project type, 46, 51
Reusable project sections, 51
Setting up Autostart, 135
Setting up startup list, 107
Single-user project, 46
Tag groups, 51
Time settings, 64, 66
WinCC client, 48
Working with projects, 29

1980

Project documentation, 1431, 1446, 1680, 1792

Archive selection, 1671, 1682
Attributes, 1677
Calling, 1445
Changing for user archives, 1671
Changing for views, 1673
Changing layouts, 1554
Changing objects, 1666
Changing of attributes, 1677
Create, 1431
Creating, 1446
Defining action types, 1680
Design, 1431
Editing dynamic metafile, 1693
Editing dynamic table, 1695
Editing dynamic text, 1692
Editing objects, 1666
For objects in Pictures, 1679
Generating multilingual, 1792
In Alarm Logging, 1457
In Global Script, 1460
in Graphics Designer, 1455
In tag logging, 1459
In the audio alarm editor, 1465
In the C editor, 1460
In the component list editor, 1468
In the lifebeat monitoring, 1467
In the OS project editor, 1467
In the Picture Tree Manager, 1466
In the Text Library, 1462
In the time synchronization editor, 1464
In the User Administrator, 1463
in the VBS editor, 1460
In the WinCC Explorer, 1454
Introduction, 1445
Menu selection, 1445
Output, 1446
Output of connections, 1691
Overview, 1431
Picture statistics, 1675
Preview, 1448
Selecting languages, 1687
Project documentation setup, 1812
Project duplicator, 138
Project Duplicator, 139, 142, 145
Project language, 899
Switching, 1728
Project Language, 1719
Project library, 212, 646, 653
Converting project library, 212
Project manager, 1851

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Project name, 1529

Output in a report, 1631
Project Planning Notes, 278
Project settings, 64, 66
Project status, 149
Project type, 46
Changing, 49
Changing multi-user project into a single-user
project, 50
Changing single-user project into a multi-user
project, 50
Client project, 48
Multi-user project, 47
Single-user project, 46
Project window, 896
Properties, 112, 114, 212, 221, 224, 256, 334, 347,
351, 352, 355, 360, 361, 363, 372, 373, 375, 428, 616,
629, 655, 995
Attribute properties of Customized Object, 629
Editing properties, 256
Message archive, 995
Object, 1570
Properties of a Customized Object, 623
Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library, 340,
343, 345, 347
properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control,
351, 354
Properties of WinCC digital/analog clock control,
350
Properties of WinCC Gauge Control, 356, 357,
359, 360, 361, 363
Properties of WinCC Slider Control, 370, 371, 372,
375
Transferring object properties, 1577
Properties folder, 428, 1573
Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library"Symbol
Library, 340, 343, 345
Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol
LibrarySymbolLibrary , 340, 343
Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol
LibrarySymbolLibrary , 345
Properties of the WinCC Gauge Control"Decimal
point, 357
Properties of the WinCC Gauge Control"Labeling
offset, 356
Properties of the WinCC Slider Control"Appearance,
369
Properties of the WinCC Slider
Control"Tab:"General" measuring range tab, 370
Properties of WinCC digital/analog clock control
"Appearance", 350

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Properties of WinCC digital/analog clock control

appearance , 350
Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control
Background image: , 354
Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control
digital display , 351
Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control tab
Clock Control tab, 352
Properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock
Control"digital display, 351
Properties of WinCC Gauge Control Decimal point ,
357
Properties of WinCC Gauge Control Labeling offset ,
356
Properties of WinCC Slider Control 3D effects Tab
Inner Frame tab , 371
Properties of WinCC Slider Control Appearance ,
369
Properties of WinCC Slider Control Tab
Font tab, 372
General tab Measurement area , 370
Tab Clear, 375
Tab Properties:properties of WinCC Slider
Control, 373
Properties of WinCC Slider Control Tab:Font size tab,
372
Properties of WinCC Slider Control"3D
effects"Tab:"Inner Frame tab, 371
Properties:Computer properties, 112, 114
Properties:Object properties, 423
Properties:Properties of a group, 616
Properties:Properties of a picture file, 224
Properties:properties of Siemens HMI Symbol
Library, 340, 345, 347, 655
Properties:properties of WinCC Digital/Analog Clock
Control, 351, 354
Properties:properties of WinCC Gauge Control, 356,
357, 359, 360, 361, 363
Properties:properties of WinCC Slider Control, 370,
371, 372, 375

1981

Index

Property group, 437, 438, 441, 443, 446, 448, 450,

455, 456, 457, 458, 459, 461, 463, 464, 465, 625,
1581
Background color property group:changing, 1579
Customized Object properties, 625
Font, 1584, 1585
Geometry, 1583
Margins property group:dynamic, 1581
Miscellaneous, 1585, 1586
Object property group:Font, 1584
Object property group:Miscellaneous, 1585
Rename, 625
Styles, 1587, 1588
Property Group:"Assignment" Property Group, 465
Property Group:"Axis" Property Group, 457
Property Group:"Colors" Property Group, 441
Property Group:"Connected Objects" Property
Group, 464
Property Group:"Flashing" Property Group, 448
Property Group:"Font" Property Group, 446
Property Group:"Geometry" Property Group, 438
Property Group:"Limits" Property Group, 458
Property Group:"Lock" Property Group, 463
Property Group:"Message Types" Property Group,
461
Property Group:"Output/Input" Property Group, 459
Property Group:"Pictures" Property Group, 455
Property Group:"Status" Property Group, 456
Property Group:Property Group, 453, 454
Protocol, 1469
Activating configuration dialog, 1476
Configuration, 1433
Create, 1473
Dynamic log parameters, 1469
dynamic operation, 1469
Edit, 1473
For the Runtime documentation, 1469
In the page layout, 1433
Protocol parameters, 1476
dynamic operation, 1476

Q
QTM message procedure, 887
Quality codes, 207
Quantity, 226
Quantity limitation, 1084
Quick Configuration, 606

1982

R
Radio box, 583, 592
Radio Box:Change Radio box, 592
Radio Box:Insert Radio box, 592
Radius, 438, 1581
Radius Y, 1581
Radius:Radius X, 438
Radius:Radius Y, 438
Raised, 371
Range selection for hard copy, 1621
Range selection for hardcopy, 1621
Raw data tag, 187
Raw data type, 1121
Rectangle, 232, 475, 500, 1527
Rectangle surrounding the object, 232, 1560
Rectangle:Changing a rectangle, 500
Rectangle:Drawing a rectangle, 500
Reducing the number, 592
Redundancy, 142
Activated project, 145
Copying project, 145
Duplicating project, 142
Runtime, 145
Reference object, 386
Reference Object of a Multiple Selection, 1565
Reference Object:Reference Object of a Multiple
Selection, 386
Regional date display, 1793
Regional time display, 1793
Registration of OCX controls, 332
Releasing connection, 506
Relinking
Linking of the Tag Connection, 418
Remote activation/deactivation, 1853
Remote configuration, 1853
Replace, 405, 418
Text in the text library, 1761
Report, 1486, 1554, 1889
Changing Layouts, 1554
Chronological output, 1486
Copy, 1891
Creating, 1890
Delete, 1891
From ODBC data source, 1493
Importing, 1892
Introduction, 1431
Message sequence report, 1486
Moving, 1891
Multilingual output in runtime, 1793
Rename, 1891
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Report contents, 1433

Report Designer, 1431
Basic settings, 1538
Report elements, 1476
dynamic operation, 1476
Report functions, 1485
Activation in WinCC Alarm Control, 1485
Report object, 1654, 1655, 1661
Alarm report, 1655, 1661
Archive report, 1654, 1655, 1661
Message report, 1654
Report system, 1431, 1854
Report template, 1896
Copying to library, 1896
Creating model solutions, 1896
Deleting in library, 1896
Moving to library, 1896
Renaming in library, 1896
Reporting, 469, 1658
Data from external application, 1492
ODBC database, 1492, 1493
User archives table, 1658
Reporting compression archive, 1635, 1638, 1640,
1643, 1645, 1647
Reporting CSV file, 1495
Reporting of messages, 887
Archive report, 887
Message sequence report, 887
Reporting of ODBC database, 1493
Reporting process values, 1635, 1640, 1643, 1647
Reporting user archive, 1658
Reporting user archives table, 1658
Reports, 1431, 1786
Configuration, 1433
In the line layout, 1435, 1486
In the page layout, 1433
Introduction, 1431
Multilingual, 1786
See report, 1431
Representation formats, 1317
Representation in trend format, 1339
Representation of process values, 1220, 1337
Representation of process values in tables, 1186,
1316
Requirement for Runtime, 678
Reserve 4, 542
Reserve 5, 542
Resetting, 998, 1175
Resolution, 1274, 1373
Restoring, 1540
Buttons, 1541
Palette, 1540

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Restoring the original view, 276

Return, 1941
Rotation, 343, 396
Rotation angle, 438, 466, 504
Rotation of objects, 466
Rotation reference X, 438, 466, 504, 1581
Rotation reference Y, 438, 466, 504, 1581
Round Button, 583, 594, 610
Round button:Changing a round button, 594
Round button:Inserting a round button, 594
Rounded rectangle, 475, 502, 1527
Drawing, 1610
modify, 1610
Rounded rectangle:Changing a rounded rectangle,
502
Rounded rectangle:Drawing a rounded rectangle,
502
Run at, 431

1983

Index

Runtime, 72, 76, 112, 116, 119, 124, 126, 132, 206,
338, 466, 656, 657, 658, 678, 679, 1091, 1211, 1250,
1253, 1260, 1304, 1307, 1326, 1402, 1795
bringing to front, 1332
Changing the column display in
OnlineTableControl, 1214
Configuring language change, 1797
Creating trend statistics in OnlineTableControl,
1215
Defining hotkeys, 110
defining time range, 1319
Display in front, 1365
display of archived values, 1334
Display of archived values, 1370
displaying archived messages, 1005
Displaying archived values in OnlineTableControl,
1215
Displaying archived values in OnlineTrendControl,
1264
editing fields, 1333
Editing table fields in OnlineTableControl, 1213
Editing tags in runtime, 206
Emergency acknowledgement of messages,
1102
Emergency acknowledgment of messages, 1050
Exiting, 137
Language switching, 1795
Loading online changes, 76
Locking and enabling messages, 1048
Locking messages, 1096
Menus and toolbars, 659
message archive data output, 1004
Multilingual project, 1795
Multi-user system, 132, 137
Online configuration, 72
Operating the AlarmControl, 1042
Operating the OnlineTableControl, 1208
Operation of alarm control, 1091
operation of Online Table Control, 1326
Operation of Online Trend Control, 1357
Operation of the Function Trend Control, 1402
Operation of Trend Control, 1357
Output of multilingual reports, 1793
Parameterization dialogs, 1327, 1360
Redundant system, 132
Representation of process values, 1323
Requirements, 105, 132
Runtime Cursor On/Off, 119
Selecting archive, 1327, 1360
selecting columns, 1332
Selecting messages, 1046
Selecting tags, 1327, 1360
Selection of messages, 1093
Setting the runtime computer starting
1984

configuration, 1796
Setting up Autostart, 135
Setting up startup list, 107
Settings, 105
Sorting messages, 1051, 1104
Starting, 132
Trend Control, 1357
Trend in the foreground, 1256, 1309
Using the zoom functions in trend windows, 1258,
1311
Runtime computer, 1796
Setting starting configuration, 1796
Runtime documentation, 1474, 1485, 1529
Creating layout, 1473
Dynamic log parameters, 1476
Output, 1474, 1485
Overview of objects, 1529
Setting up print job, 1474
Runtime documentation/components, 1469
Runtime documentation/dynamizable parameters,
1479
Runtime documentation/dynamization, 1469, 1479
Runtime documentation/introduction, 1469
Runtime language, 1795
Configuration, 1728
Runtime:Activating Runtime, 657
Runtime:Deactivate Runtime, 657
Runtime:defining time range, 1343
Runtime:representation of process values, 1338
Runtime:Runtime module, 116
Runtime:Runtime Settings, 466
Runtime:selecting trend, 1338
Runtime:Setting up Runtime, 112

S
Same size, 438, 1581
Sample Text, 351, 360, 372
Save as, 281
Save settings on exit, 256
Saving default settings of objects, 267
Saving layout under new name, 1556
Scale, 357, 359, 371, 441, 457, 544, 600
Scale end value, 357
Scale font , 360
Scale Offset, 357
Scale text font, 360
Scale:Scale color, 441
Scale:Scale marks, 457, 544
Scale:Setting scale division, 544
Scale:Setting scale end values and zero point value,
544, 600
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Scaling, 200, 326, 393

Specifying linear scaling, 200
Scaling factor, 450
Screen Navigation, 119, 659
Screen saver, 111
Scroll bar, 450
Scroll Bar, 468
Scroll bar position X, 450
Scroll bar position Y, 450
Search function, 44
Searching, 44
Date, 44
Name, 44
Searchable elements, 44
Segment, 1136
Select the Active Layer, 294
Selected Box, 459
Selected Events, 632
Selected Graphic OLLs, 216
Selected Properties, 623
Selected Themes, 625
Selecting, 385, 1567, 1670
Multiple objects, 1567
Single messages for the project documentation,
1670
Selecting a color, 434
Selecting a page range, 1440
Selecting a picture, 434
Selecting a time range for the data, 1440
Selecting ActiveX controls, 212
Selecting Message Blocks, 1713
Selecting OCXs , 332
Selecting statistics range, 1335, 1367
Selecting the default trigger, 269
Selecting user hierarchies in PCS7, 1831
Selection, 1682
Changing for picture statistics, 1675
Changing for product documentation of attributes,
1677
Changing for user archives, 1671
Changing for views, 1673
Of the archive tags, 1684
Of the archives for the project documentation,
1682
Selection Background Color, 441
Selection borders, 386
Selection Dialog, 434
Selection Font Color, 441
Selection Frame of a Multiple Selection, 1565
Selection Frame:Selection Frame of a Multiple
Selection, 386
Selection in the form of buttons, 434

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Selection marks, 1560

Selection of action types for the project
documentation, 1680
Selection of Archives, 1682
Selection of compressed archive data, 1682
Selection of configured languages for project
documentation, 1687
Selection of messages, 1084, 1093, 1656
Selection of objects, 1668
Selection of Picture, 547, 553
Selection of process value archive data, 1682
Selection of Tags, 1689
Selection of the archive tags, 1635, 1638, 1640, 1643,
1647, 1684
Selection of the connections, 1691
Selection options, 1668
For the project documentation, 1668
Server, 1118, 1838
Diagnostic information, 151
Logon server, 1838
Server data, 1893
Assigning OS server, 1893
Server name, 450
Server prefix, 450, 817
ServerPrefix, 817
Server's time zone, 64
Server-server communication, 1118
Setting authorizations, 588
Setting format of label, 544
Setting format of tick marks, 544
Setting layout of the scale, 544
Setting options, 1543
Page layout editor, 1543
Setting print margins, 1581
Setting print start time, 1438
Setting selected boxes, 589, 592
Setting Start Parameter, 1438
Setting start parameters, 1442
Setting the length of the ellipse arc, 491
Setting the number of boxes, 589, 592
Setting the size range for the display of objects, 264
Setting the tab order cursor's sequence, 679
Setting up print job, 1450, 1474
Setting up users, 1814
Setting zoom ranges for individual layers, 264
Settings, 254
Settings ..., 254, 264, 267, 269
Setup, 1450
Print job, 1450, 1474
Shared time column, 1317
Short, 179

1985

Index

Shortcut key, 262, 1546

Showing, 1546
Short-term archive list, 887, 1014, 1070
Show/hide, 264
ShowDialog function, 1845, 1847
Showing, 1543
Grid, 1543
Showing and Hiding Layers and Objects, 264
Siemens HMI Symbol Library, 655
Signature, electronic, 1844
Signed 16-bit value, 179
Signed 32-bit value, 181
Signed 8-bit value, 177
Signed byte, 177, 178
Signed Dword, 181
Signed word, 179
Signing Off Archive Backup File, 1000, 1177
SIMATIC logon, 1809
SIMATIC Logon service, 1837, 1838, 1839
Login dialog, 1839
SIMATIC Logon Service, 1844
Login dialog, 1844
SIMATIC Manager, 1857, 1861, 1864, 1879, 1886,
1888, 1889, 1897, 1898
Adopting language settings, 1888
Simulation, 1898
SIMATIC Manager, 1898
Starting, 1898
Single acknowledgement, 887

1986

Single message, 887, 927, 1075

Acknowledging, 935
Acknowledgment bit, 928, 935
Acknowledgment tag, 935
Archiving, 887
Configuring a message, 928, 1075
Creating, 931
Defining colors, 920
Display process value, 940
Editing multiple messages, 967
Exporting, 966
Format DLL, 928
Formatting Instructions, 938
Hide mask, 928, 945
Hiding Messages, 945, 1054, 1100
Importing, 964
in a group message, 982
Info text, 938
Loop In Alarm, 943
Message bit, 928, 932, 991
Message class, 916
Message group, 928
Message number, 928
Message tag, 932, 991
Message text, 938
Message type, 887
Parameters of a message, 928
Process values in the message text, 940
Properties, 928
Selection, 1093
Specifying an action, 943
Status bit, 928, 933
Status tag, 933
Structure of a Message, 887
Tag of a process value, 936
Single messages, 1670
Objects for the project documentation, 1670
Output in a report, 1670
Printing, 1670
Selecting, 1670
Single values, 1375
Single-user project, 46
Changing project type, 50
Sizeable, 450, 468
Slave Pointer, 356
Slider, 368, 369, 583, 597, 598, 600
Slider control, 368, 369, 370, 371, 372, 373, 375
Slider Control, 320
Slider picture, 375
Slider:Changing Slider, 597
Slider:Inserting Slider, 597
Slider:Slider Configuration, 598

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Smart object, 322, 340

Smart objects, 473, 509, 1558
Snap to Grid, 254
Snapping to grid, 1544
Solid, 345
Sort conditions, 1660
For the user archive report, 1660
Sort text contents, 405
Sorting messages, 1084, 1104
Source, 421
Spacing objects, 1568
Special characters, 152, 1722, 1730
Usage, 1722
Specify picture zoom area, 516
Specifying an action, 943
Specifying field type, 531, 560
Specifying type of value input, 531
SQL statement used to filter messages, 1112
Square, 350, 356
Square-wave
Drawing, 1608
modify, 1608
Standard deviation, 1335, 1371
Standard function, 1106
Example of use, 1068, 1108
Standard objects, 473, 475, 1526, 1558, 1589
Standard toolbar, 236, 262, 277, 1523, 1705
Standard toolbar: Drag&drop with ALT key active,
262
Standard Toolbar:Changing the Standard Toolbar
with drag&drop, 277
Standard Toolbar:Changing the Standard Toolbar
with the Configuration Dialog, 277
Standard toolbar:configurable, 262
Standard Toolbar:Restoring the Standard Toolbar,
277
Standard trigger, 269
Standby computer, 1872
Selecting, 1872
Standby OS properties, 1872
Start angle, 438
Start Debugger, 128
Start Picture, 122
Start screen, 234
Start sequence of WinCC Runtime, 116
Start value, 189
Starting and stopping the update in table windows,
1213, 1255, 1308
Starting angle, 1581
Starting archive, 1851
Starting point of archiving, 1127
Startup, 107, 112

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Startup list, 107, 1502

Integrating application for hard copy, 1502
Multi-user system, 107
Setting up, 107
State, 456
Static, 428, 1573
Static display, 1319
Static metafile, 1527
Changing, 1616
Inserting, 1616
Static objects, 1526, 1527
Editing, 1589
Static text, 475, 504, 1527
Inserting, 1612
modify, 1612
Static text:Change static text, 504
Static text:Insert static text, 504
Static Text:Rotate, 504
Static text:Rotation in a group object, 504
Static value, 1573
Statistics, 224, 226, 1200, 1215, 1242, 1260, 1296
Statistics of Runtime data, 1371
Statistics range, 1371
Statistics:Displaying statistical characteristics, 224
Status, 207, 554
Connection, 207
Quality codes, 207
Tag, 207
Status bar, 40, 247, 1025, 1091, 1196, 1208, 1239,
1250, 1293, 1304, 1520, 1538
WinCC Explorer, 40
Status Bar, 1830
Status bit, 928, 933
of a group message, 971, 977, 979
of a message, 928, 933
Status bit of a message, 928, 933
Status display, 509, 550, 553, 610
Status display configuration, 553
Status display:Changing a status display, 550
Status display:Inserting a status display, 550
Status list, 553, 554, 606
Status list:Clearing status list, 554
Status tag, 887, 928, 933
of a group message, 971, 977, 979
of a message, 928, 933
Status texts, 925
Status:Deleting status, 554
Status:Inserting status, 554
Status:Inserting status as bit position, 554
STEP 7, 1914
Message configuration, 1914
STEP 7 symbol, 1920

1987

Index

STEP 7 symbols, 1929

Selecting, 1924, 1932
Showing, 1930
Transferring, 1926
window, 1921
STEP 7 Symbols, 1919
STEP7 message configuration, 1914
Stepped trend, 1375
Stopping archive, 1851
String, 537
Structure
Export file Text Library, 1740
Structure element, 167
Structure instance, 167
Structure tag, 167
Structure type, 167, 192
Applying, 195
create, 192
Using, 195
Style group, 239
Style original , 345
Style palette, 239, 1520, 1533
Style tab
Alignment tab, 343
Style" original, 345
Style" tab
"Alignment tab, 343
Styles, 443, 1588
Changing, 1588
Changing object properties, 1587
Substitute value, 199
Defining, 199
Swapping, 1000
Message archive, 1000
signing off message archive, 1000
Swapping out, 1138
of process values, 1138
Swapping out of process values, 1138
Switch language, 1764, 1781
In Alarm Logging, 1776
Switching languages, 1764
In Graphics Designer, 1764
Switchover, 434
Symbol Library, 320, 342
Symbols, 342
Symbols dialog
Dialog preview, 342
Symbols"Dialog:Dialog "Preview, 342
Synchronization of tags, 166
System block, 905, 907

1988

System Block, 887

Adding, 909
Features, 910
Removing, 912
System change, 1854
System colors, 347, 352, 361
System layouts for project documentation, 1510
System layouts for Runtime documentation, 1513
System message, 887, 950, 960
System message class, 914
Requires acknowledgement, 914
Without acknowledgement, 914
System object, 1631
Changing, 1631
Date/time, 1631
Format options, 1631
Inserting, 1631
Layout name, 1631
Page number, 1631
Project name, 1631
System objects, 1526, 1529
System print job, 1436, 1452
System requirement, 1722
Multilingual configuration, 1722
System status, 945, 975
System wizard, 894
System Wizard, 904

T
Tab, 334
"Transparent frame" tab, 350
Basic color tab , 361
Clock Control tab , 351
Font size tab , 360
Format tab , 354, 363
General tab Properties:properties of WinCC Slider
Control, 369
General tab standard color, 359
Library tab , 340
Linking, 1575
Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library tab
Symbol Library, 347
Properties of SiemensHMISymbolLibrary
categories tab, 342
Properties tab, 1573
Properties tab in Font Style window, 1573
Scale width tab , 357
Shadow tab , 345
Tab General background style, 356
Transparent frame tab , 350
Tab or Alpha Cursor, 119
MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC
System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Tab Order, 677, 679

TAB order, 678, 679, 681, 682, 683
Tab:"Font Size" tab, 360
Tab:"Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library
categories" tab, 342
Tab:"Properties of Siemens HMI Symbol Library" tab
"symbol library, 347
Tab:basic color tab, 361
Tab:Clock Control tab, 351
Tab:Format tab, 354, 363
Tab:General tab Properties:"Properties of WinCC
Slider Control", 369
Tab:Scale Width tab, 357
Tab:shadow tab, 345
Tab:Tab "General"Background style, 356
Tab:Tab "General"Normal color, 359
Tab:Tab "Library, 340
Table, 1695, 1708, 1709
Configuring time columns, 1187
Configuring value columns, 1190
Dynamic table, 1695
In line layout editor, 1708, 1709
separate time columns, 1318
shared time column, 1317
Table display formats, 1317
Table selection, 1660
User archives table, 1660
Table window, 896, 1827, 1829
Tables, 1186, 1316
dynamic display, 1317, 1320
Marking the selected cells and rows, 1021, 1024,
1192, 1195
Properties of the table elements, 1021, 1022,
1192, 1193
Sorting by column header, 1021, 1024, 1192,
1195
static display, 1319
Table element colors, 1021, 1022, 1192, 1193
time range, 1319

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Tag, 162, 163, 416, 418, 421, 450, 530, 541, 553,
559, 598, 606, 608, 1120, 1528, 1920, 1929
communication driver, 174
Copying, 202
Creating internal tags, 190
Creating tag group, 197
Cutting, 202
data type, 174
Data type, 176, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 183, 184,
187
Deleting, 202
Editing, 202
Editing in runtime, 206
Element, 167
external, 1120
External tag, 164
Importing, 163
instance, 167
internal, 1120
Licensing, 164
Linking tags at the places of use, 418
Linking tags by searching and replacing, 418
Moving, 202
Naming conventions, 163
Pasting, 202
Power tag, 164
Process tag, 164
Quality codes, 207
Renaming, 204
Setting up, 188, 190
Specifying linear scaling, 200
Status, 207
Structure element, 167
Structure instance, 167
Structure tag, 167
Structure type, 167
Tag group, 170
Tag management, 159
Tag Selection Dialog, 171
tag type, 174
Text reference, 176
Transferring, 1899
Updating, 163
Usable data types, 164
using structure types, 195
Tag assignment
Configuring, 838
Example: dynamic filling, 840
Tag bar, 1929, 1930, 1932
Tag connection, 416, 418
Linking Tag Connection of Objects, 418
Tag display, 416, 608

1989

Index

Tag filter, 1921, 1930

Tag group, 170
Setting up, 197
Tag groups, 416, 608
Tag Logging, 1142
data window, 1142
navigation window, 1142
table window, 1142
Tag Login, 1822
Tag Login Assignment of computer, 1823
Tag Login Assignment of user, 1825
Tag Login Configuration, 1825
Tag Login: Configuration, 1824
Tag management, 159, 162
Data window, 159
Menu bar, 159
Navigation window, 159
Searching, 159
Status bar, 159
Structure, 159
toolbar, 159
Tooltip, 159
Tag object
Changing, 1629
Defining output format, 1629
Linking script, 1629
Tag palette, 246
Tag prefix, 450
Tag Prefix, 817
Tag Selection, 418
Tag selection dialog, 1920, 1921, 1924, 1926
Tag Selection Dialog, 171
Tag Table, 1490, 1529
Logging, 1490
Report object, 1529
Tag trigger:cyclic query, 820
Tag trigger:upon change, 820
Tag type, 174
TagPrefix, 817
Tags, 1689
Output of configuration data, 1689
Tags Selection of tag parameters , 1689
Tags:Tags - project: ..., 416
Target computer, 1868, 1875, 1880, 1884
Load project, 1875, 1884
Setting path, 1868, 1880
Target system, 1875, 1884
Loading, 1875, 1884
Tasks, 116
Telegram tag, 1121
Template, 513

1990

Text, 446, 586, 606, 1692, 1747, 1899

Compile, 1743
Compiling, 1807
Displaying transferred text, 1912
Dynamic text, 1692
exportable, 1736, 1751, 1769, 1778
Exportable, 1746, 1749
Exporting from pictures, 1768
Importable, 1736, 1746, 1749, 1751, 1769, 1778
not used, 1763
Transferring, 1899
Text Distributor
Export file, 1739
Languages.csv, 1742
List export procedures, 1743
List import procedures, 1743
Representation, 1734
Status list, 1743
Use, 1732
Text Export, 1734
Text Import, 1734
Text Input, 434
Text library, 1747
Missing Text ID, 1763
Paste, 1759
Replace, 1761
Central language administration, 1747
Copying text, 1758
Creating new language, 1756
Delete cell content, 1759
Delete lines, 1760
Deleting language, 1758
Display, 1764
Editing entries, 1753
Export Files, 1739
Filtering text, 1762
Find , 1760
Fonts, 1747
Generating reports, 1753
Insert new line, 1756
Language administration, 1753
Multiple selection, 1759
Not system text , 1763
Operator's Overview, 1753
Setting fonts, 1753
Translating text, 1753
WinCC Editors, 1747
Text Library
Copy lines, 1759
Text library text table Foreign languages
Text output , 1687

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

Text list, 509, 557, 559, 560, 1775

Configuring text lists in multiple languages, 1775
Text list:Changing text list, 557
Text list:Configuring a text list, 559
Text list:Inserting a text list, 557
Text orientation, 446
Text reference, 176, 450
Text Reference, 560
Text reference:Specifying text reference, 560
Text tag, 16-bit character set, 187
Text tag, 8-bit character set, 187
Text that is not used, 1763
Texts for multiple messages, 969
The "Picture Name" selection dialog, 610
Theme selection, 625
Tick marks, 544
Tick Text Offset, 357
Tick Width, 357
Time, 117, 349, 1631, 1793
Output in a report, 1631
Showing regional, 1793
Time base, 64
Time display, 349
Time format, 64
Time mode, 117
Time range, 1319, 1386
Time settings, 64
Communication, 64
Controls, 64
Project, 64, 66
Runtime documentation, 64
Time synchronization, 1464
Project documentation, 1464
Time values (250 ms - 1 h), 269
Time zone, 64
Tips for changing, 681
Title, 450, 468
Title bar, 40
WinCC Explorer, 40
Tolerance, 336
Tolerance limit, 542
ToleranceColor, 336
toolbar, 275, 276, 277, 412, 414, 426, 649

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Toolbar, 39, 1018, 1025, 1077, 1091, 1196, 1208,

1239, 1250, 1293, 1304, 1326, 1520, 1523, 1703,
1826
Buttons, 39
Changing, 1541
Changing View, 1546
Configuring, 1543
customized ~ define for picture, 667
customized ~ define for picture window, 668
Hiding, 1540
In line layout editor, 1705
Operating the AlarmControl, 1042
Operation of alarm control, 1091
Showing, 1540
Table Control, 1326
User-defined, 659
WinCC Explorer, 39
Toolbar:Adapt toolbar, 277
Toolbar:The Library Toolbar, 649
Toolbars, 234, 262
Tooltip, 41
Tooltip text, 450
Total, 336, 338
T-piece, 603
Transfer, 1926
STEP 7 symbols, 1926
Transfer with Complete Input, 459
Transferring, 1577
Object properties, 1577
Transferring objects, 1556
Transferring picture properties, 295
Translating text
Text library, 1748
Transparency
Of objects, 473
Transparent, 350, 369
Transparent color, 454
Trend, 450, 542, 1221, 1222, 1227, 1230, 1233,
1235, 1286, 1289, 1490, 1529
Configuring in OnlineTrendControl, 1225, 1265,
1267, 1270
Configuring the axes in FunctionTrendControl,
1282
Logging, 1490
Report object, 1529
Trend Color, 441

1991

Index

Trend Control, 1220, 1337

Configuring in the Graphics Designer, 1348
Display in front, 1365
Operation in Runtime, 1357
Paramterization dialogs in Runtime, 1360
Runtime:Determine co-ordinates, 1367
Toolbar, 1357
Trend Control:enlarged display Runtime:enlarged
display, 1369
Trend Control:example of configuration, 1352
Trend Control:representation of archived values,
1338
Trend display, 1386
Trend representation, 1343
Trend window
Configuring in FunctionTrendControl , 1279
TrendRulerControl
Configuring the data export operation, 1034, 1204,
1246, 1300
Configuring the ruler window/statistics window/
Statistics area window, 1200, 1242, 1296
Configuring the status bar, 1025, 1196, 1239,
1293
Configuring the toolbar, 1025, 1196, 1239, 1293
Creating statistics in runtime with the
OnlineTableControl, 1215
Creating statistics in runtime with the
OnlineTrendControl, 1260
Marking the selected cells and rows, 1021, 1024,
1192, 1195
Online configuration, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Properties of the table elements, 1021, 1024,
1192, 1195
Sorting by column header, 1021, 1024, 1192,
1195
Table element colors, 1021, 1022, 1192, 1193
Trends
Common axes, 1340
Configuring the axes in FunctionTrendControl,
1277
Configuring trends for the trend window, 1284
Display in FunctionTrendControl, 1275
Linear Interpolation, 1339
Representation formats, 1339
Single Values, 1339
Staggering, 1342
Stepped trend, 1339
Trends:staggering, 1342
Trends:dynamic display, 1343
Trends:resolution of curve display, 1343
Trends:static display, 1343
Trends:time jump, 1346

1992

Trends:time overlaps, 1346

Trends:time range, 1343
Trigger, 256
Trigger:cyclic trigger, 820
Trigger:event-driven trigger, 819
Trigger:hotkeys, 822
Trigger:tag trigger, 820
Triggers
Cyclic Triggers, 819
modify, 862, 875, 883
Tube objects, 473, 601
Type, 458, 542
Type of dynamics, 226, 408, 410
Types of library objects, 646

U
Underline, 446
Ungroup, 617
Unit font, 360
Unit offset, 355
Unit text, 355
Units, 1543
Page layout editor, 1543
Universal Time Coordinated, 64
Unlocking message, 1851
Unlocking messages, 1096
Alarm Control, 1096
Unsigned 16-bit value, 180
Unsigned 32-bit value, 183
Unsigned 8-bit value, 178
Unsigned Dword, 183
Unsigned word, 180
Update, 1357, 1402
starting, 1332
Starting, 1405
stopping, 1332
Stopping, 1405
Update cycle, 450
Updating, 336, 530, 541, 553, 559, 598, 606, 1326
Start, 1365
Stop, 1365
Upon change, 269
Upper frame color, 371
Upper limit, 542
Used, 336
UsedPercent, 336, 338
User administration, 1851, 1853, 1854
User Administration, 1830
User Administrator, 1463
Project documentation, 1463

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

User archive, 1395, 1491, 1671

Displaying data, 1395
Output of configuration data, 1671
Printing, 1491
User Archive - Runtime, 1529
Report table, 1529
User archive data, 1491
Logging, 1491
User archive report, 1658
Data Selection, 1660
User archive runtime, 1660
Report table, 1660
User archive runtime table, 1658, 1660
Inserting, 1658
modify, 1660
User archive selection for the project documentation,
1660
User archives table, 1660
Selection of the data for a message report, 1660
User authorization, 1851, 1853, 1854
User cycle (1 - 5), 269
User group
DefaultGroup, 1850
Emergency_Operator, 1850
User hierarchies in PCS7:Default Authorizations,
1851
User hierarchies PCS7, 1854
Inserting, 1818
User interface language, 1719
Switching, 1728
User text block, 905
Adding, 909
Features, 910
Removing, 912
User value 1-4, 450
UserArchiveControl
Configuring the data export operation, 1034, 1204,
1246, 1300
Configuring the status bar , 1025, 1196, 1239,
1293
Configuring the toolbar, 1025, 1196, 1239, 1293
Marking the selected cells and rows, 1021, 1192
Online configuration, 1036, 1205, 1247, 1301
Properties of the table elements, 1021, 1192
Sorting by column header, 1021, 1024, 1192,
1195
Table element colors, 1021, 1022, 1192, 1193
User-defined group message, 978
Adding, 979, 982
Deleting, 983
Features, 978

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

User-defined menu, 659

create, 662
modify, 664
User-defined toolbar, 659
Users, 1813
UTC, 64

V
Value Import and Display Text of a Text List, 560
Value input, 434, 531, 1851
Value ranges, 359
Values outside the limit range, 1387
Variable
create, 189
Creating a process tag, 189
Creating structure type, 192
Data type, 185
Defining substitute value, 199
Displaying transferred tags, 1911
Internal tag, 166
Specifying limit value, 198
Start value, 189
Usable data types, 166
VBS action, 414
Triggers, 875
VBS action:creating, 868, 871, 874
VBS action:Edit VBS action, 414
VBS editor, 1460
Project documentation, 1460
View selection for the project documentation, 1673
Viewing project documentation, 1812
Views, 1673
Viewsprojectdocumentation
View selection , 1673
Virus scan, 111
visible, 242
Visible layers, 260
Visualization of messages, 1018
Marking the selected cells and rows, 1024, 1195
Message blocks, 1018
Message blocks and message lines, 1016
Properties of the table elements, 1021, 1192
Sorting by column header , 1024, 1195
Table element colors, 1022, 1193

W
Warning, 336, 359, 918
Warning color, 359
Warning Display, 359

1993

Index

Warning for hard disk capacity, 1442

Warning limit, 542
WarningColor, 336
Went Out Unacknowledged, 461
Wheel Zoom, 126
Width, 326, 371, 438, 1581
Width Button 1-4, 438
Width in pixels, 254
WinCC, 34, 1718
Client project, 48
Editors and functions, 146
Exiting Runtime, 137
Illegal characters, 152
Language support, 1718
Message archiving, 994
Multilingual configuration, 1718
Multi-user project, 47
Naming conventions, 152
Options, 146
Project, 34
Project type, 46
Runtime, 132
Setting up Autostart, 135
Single-user project, 46
Starting, 29
Starting Runtime, 132
Terminating, 32
WinCC client, 48
WinCC Explorer, 34
WinCC Adapter, 1839, 1844
WinCC Alarm Control, 1014, 1070
Changing output options, 1649, 1651
Dynamizing Output parameters, 1649, 1651
Modify layout, 1649, 1651
Reporting, 1649, 1651
Runtime documentation, 1529
WinCC AlarmControl
Default functions, 1041
Standard functions, 1207, 1249, 1303
WinCC application, 1864
create, 1865
WinCC Chipcard Terminal, 1833, 1834
WinCC client, 48
WinCC Control, 1485
Activating report functions, 1485
WinCC Control Runtime Printprovider, 1634

1994

WinCC controls, 320

IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace, 320
Siemens HMI Symbol Library, 320
WinCC Alarm Control, 320
WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control, 320
WinCC FunctionTrendControl, 320
WinCC Gauge Control, 320
WinCC Media Control, 320
WinCC OnlineTableControl, 320
WinCC OnlineTrendControl, 320
WinCC Push Button Control, 320
WinCC Slider Control, 320
WinCC UserArchiveControl, 320
WinCC Controls
IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace, 335
Siemens HMI Symbol Library, 340
WinCC Digital/Analog Clock Control, 349
WinCC Gauge Control, 355
WinCC Slider Control, 368
WinCC Controls:IXDiskSpace.DiskSpace, 335
WinCC Controls:Siemens HMI Symbol Library, 340
WinCC Controls:WinCC Digital/Analog Clock
Control, 349
WinCC Controls:WinCC Gauge Control, 355
WinCC Controls:WinCC Slider Control, 368
WinCC Explorer, 34, 35, 209, 210, 286, 652, 657
Buttons, 39
Closing, 32
Closing project, 32
Data Window, 41
Edit menu, 36
Elements, 35
File menu, 36
Help menu, 36
Menu bar, 36
Navigation window, 41
Open project, 29
opening, 29
Searching, 44
Start mode, 29
Status bar, 40
Structure, 35
Title bar, 40
Toolbar, 39
Tools menu, 36
Tooltip, 41
View menu, 36
Window, 41

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

Index

WinCC Function Trend Control, 1373

Changing output options, 1645, 1647
Dynamizing Output parameters, 1647
Modify layout, 1645, 1647
Reporting, 1645, 1647
Runtime documentation, 1529
WinCC FunctionTrendControl, 1274
WinCC logon, 1809
WinCC Media Control, 364
WinCC object, 1861, 1889, 1896
Copy, 1891
Copying to library, 1896
Creating, 1890
Creating model solutions, 1896
Delete, 1891
Deleting in library, 1896
Importing, 1892
Moving, 1891
Moving to library, 1896
Rename, 1891
Renaming in library, 1896
WinCC Online Table Control, 1186
Changing output options, 1635, 1638
Dynamizing Output parameters, 1638
Modify layout, 1635, 1638
Reporting, 1635, 1638
Runtime documentation, 1529
WinCC Online Trend Control, 1220, 1316, 1337
Applying tag properties, 1356
Automatic trend parameter configuration, 1356
Changing output options, 1640, 1643
Curve parameter, 1356
Dynamizing Output parameters, 1643
Modify layout, 1640, 1643
Reporting, 1640, 1643
Runtime documentation, 1529
Zoom in, 1369
Zoom out, 1369
Zooming, 1369
WinCC project, 1861, 1864, 1879, 1888, 1896
Copying to library, 1896
create, 1865
Creating, 1880
Creating model solutions, 1896
Deleting in library, 1896
Importing to the SIMATIC Manager, 1886
Loading, 1875, 1884
Moving to library, 1896
opening, 1897
Opening, 1888
Renaming in library, 1896
WinCC server, 1118

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,

WinCC system messages, 950, 960

WinCC User Archive Control
Printing, 1491
Runtime documentation, 1529
Window, 41
Window "Object Properties":Opening the "Object
Properties" Window, 433
Window Contents, 513
Window Cycle, 269
Window display in Runtime, 513
Window height, 1581
Window On Top, 119
Window selection, 1851
Window width, 438, 1581
Windows
Account rules, 1838
Domain, 1838
Local security regulations, 1838
Settings for SIMATIC logon, 1838
Windows 2000, 1726
Windows objects, 473, 583, 1558
Windows style, 443
Windows Style, 600
Windows system colors, 347, 352, 361, 373
Windows XP, 1726
Switching languages, 1726
within the layer, 403
Wizard, 887
Interconnection Wizard, 937
Select, 887
System Wizard, 904
WMF, 287
Word, 180
Working environment, 271, 1538
Working with, 1618
Dynamic standard objects, 1618
Objects for the runtime documentation, 1634
Static objects, 1589
Working with Combined Objects, 613
Working with default objects, 267
Working with Groups, 614
Working with Layers, 290
Working with layouts, 1548
Working with Multiple Pictures, 295
Working with objects, 1558
Working with Objects, 378
Working with Objects in the Object Palette, 473
Working with Pictures, 278
Working with Smart Objects, 509
Working with standard objects, 1589
Working with Standard Objects, 475
Working with the library, 646

1995

Index

Working with Windows Objects, 583

WPF Control, 509
WPF files, 377
Write direction, 1343, 1384
Write to chipcard, 1835

X
X alignment, 446

Y
Y alignment, 446

Z
Zero point, 457, 544
Zero point value, 450
Zero Point Value, 544, 600
Zoom factor, 243
Zoom functions, 126
Zoom in, 1369
Zoom out, 1369
Zoom palette, 243, 1520, 1535
Zoom ranges, 264
Zoom value, 264
Zooming, 1369

1996

MDM - WinCC: Working with WinCC

System Manual, 11/2008,