SIMATIC PCS7 Multiproject Multiuser Engineering
SIMATIC PCS7 Multiproject Multiuser Engineering
Multiproject / Multiuser
engineering
SIMATIC PCS 7 V8.1
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Preface
Preface
This document provides an overview of the different variants and the positioning of
multiproject and multiuser engineering.
Multiproject engineering allows systems to be configured flexibly and at several
locations. To facilitate this, the automation solution is divided technologically into
several projects. The projects are created in a multiproject on a central engineering
station. Besides the projects, even the master data library, containing all the shared
objects, is managed here. Single AS projects pertaining to the multiproject can be
temporarily transferred to other ES for distributed processing.
Figure 0-1-1: Multiproject engineering
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Both concepts are basically independent, but they combine to form efficient and
flexible engineering.
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Table of contents
Table of contents
Warranty and liability ................................................................................................... 2
Preface .......................................................................................................................... 3
1 Multiproject engineering ................................................................................... 5
1.1 General ................................................................................................. 5
1.2 System requirements ........................................................................... 7
1.3 Project structures ................................................................................. 9
1.3.1 Basic requirements ............................................................................. 10
1.3.2 Station-specific structure .................................................................... 11
1.3.3 Project-specific structure .................................................................... 13
1.4 Distributed project archive .................................................................. 15
1.4.1 Division with network connection ....................................................... 16
1.4.2 Division without network connection .................................................. 17
1.4.3 Distributing the multiproject without network connection ................... 18
1.5 Distributed editing ............................................................................... 19
1.5.1 Project planning .................................................................................. 20
1.5.2 Project set-up work ............................................................................. 21
1.5.3 Dividing the projects ........................................................................... 26
1.5.4 Distributed project editing ................................................................... 31
1.5.5 Merging the projects: .......................................................................... 32
1.5.6 Final project work ............................................................................... 34
2 Multiuser engineering ..................................................................................... 37
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1 Multiproject engineering
1.1 General
1 Multiproject engineering
1.1 General
The multiproject functionality of SIMATIC PCS 7 offers the possibility of configuring
systems in a flexible and performant manner. The focus lies on the time-saving,
parallel editing of projects that can be managed, separated and merged with the
help of the system.
Figure 1-1
Despite the distributed storage, the projects can contain cross-project relationships,
such as S7 connections.
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1.1 General
Note In the context of PCS 7, is always recommended to create a multiproject with the
master data library, even if only one project is contained.
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1.2 System requirements
Similarly, for performance reasons we recommend that you use PCs with
a high clock speed, larger memory and faster disk drive (e.g. SSD) for the
engineering stations. You can find further information about the recommended
hardware configuration in the Readme "PCS 7 Readme V8.1 (Online).
Similarly, for performance reasons, we recommend you to reduce the SQL
database file (* .ldf) size of the OS project. You can find further instructions in
the article "How do you reduce the size of the transaction file (*.LDF) of the
database of a WinCC project?"
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Network structure
To load the AS or test OS functions, the relevant engineering stations must be
directly connected to the system bus. (Routing through the Engineering Server
is not possible).
There must be a stable network connection between the participating
engineering stations. All stations must see each other in the network
neighborhood or in the SIMATIC shell.
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1.2 System requirements
Figure 1-2: Properties of the released project after using SIMATIC Rights
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1.3 Project structures
Figure 1-3
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Note You can find further information on how to create a multiproject in the document
"SIMATIC Process Control System PCS 7 Compendium Part A - Configuration
Guidelines (V8.1)" /4/
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/107196780
and in the manual "PCS 7 Engineering System (V8.1)" /3/
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/90663380).
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1.3 Project structures
In order to carry out the subsequent project work as rationally as possible, some
preliminary considerations are necessary.
With regard to the issue of how to properly separate the overall task in part
configurations, one must consider individual conditions of the project itself, as well
as those of the available engineering environment. Here are a few examples:
Number of project engineers: How many automation systems must be
configured and in what time? Where can ratio effects be used when
configuring?
The number of available engineering stations: Each project engineer who
is responsible for one or several automation systems, has an ES available.
Networking of the engineering stations: Normally, all engineering stations
should be connected consistently to each other via the terminal bus.
Project complexity: How many areas should be automated in the multiproject.
In how many buildings will there be an ES or an OS server positioned at a later
stage? Which automation systems are assigned to which OS server
Configuration duration/effort: The duration can be controlled by the number
of planned project engineers.
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1.3 Project structures
Figure 1-4
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Figure 1-5
Therefore, In the project of AS there are no OS objects (pictures, reports, ...) and
in the project of the OS there are no AS objects (CFC, SFC, ...).
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1.3 Project structures
Figure 1-6
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Advantages
The biggest possible division ensures the highest flexibility in the assignment
of individual projects to the project engineers and also offers the best
performance in processing speed.
During commissioning, engineering stations can be added or removed in order
to respond flexibly to varying staff availability.
Please note
Tests of AS and OS during configuring are carried out on separate ES
(provided that the decentralization has taken place).
Changes in the plant hierarchies (PH) of projects have to be synchronized
again in the multiproject after editing.
It is not possible to copy complete plant sections including the update of the
OS objects.
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1.3 Project structures
Figure 1-7
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In a project-specific structure the project includes all operator stations for an area
together with the assigned AS. The area is completely independent. OS clients can
be contained in the same project or in a separate project for a central control room.
Figure 1-8
From a technological point of view, the project contains both AS objects (CFC,
SFC, ...) and OS objects (pictures, reports, ...) – this can be seen in the following
figure.
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1.3 Project structures
Figure 1-9
Advantages
It can be configured and tested in the project, complete with AS and OS.
The mode of operation during configuration and commissioning is the same.
It is possible to copy complete plant sections including the update of OS
objects.
There is a common view in the plant hierarchy, which includes the AS and OS
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in a project.
Please note
All AS charts can only be assigned to the available OS in the same project via the
plant hierarchy.
A later division (outsourcing of individual AS or OS from one project) requires
detailed knowledge of the corresponding steps necessary. That is why the project
should be divided as well as possible, right from the beginning.
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1.4 Distributed project archive
Figure 1-10
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During the period when the projects are swapped out, the availability of the
communication partners must be ensured, especially for cross-project activities
such as when setting up an AS-AS communication or OS compilation.
In the following section, the distributed configuration is considered with and without
network.
Note The actual sequence for moving the projects can be found in the manual
"SIMATIC Process Control System PCS 7 Engineering System (V8.1)". \3\
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1.4 Distributed project archive
Figure 1-11
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A project can be moved using the system function "Save as ..." and selecting the
option to replace the project integrated in the multiproject with the generated copy.
Advantages
An OS server can be compiled at any time with data from AS stations of other
projects.
All required program components can be found in the master data library,
which can be accessed over the network.
Easy archiving of the entire project, including all distributed projects is possible
on the Engineering Server.
A largely station-specific project structure and its distributed division represent
the most flexible way of configuring under permanent network availability.
Please note
If a project is not expected back on the network, it leads to corresponding
waiting times.
When carrying out cross-project functions, one must ensure with the project
engineers that no one is working on the same projects. Otherwise, this could
lead to conflicts.
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1.4 Distributed project archive
Figure 1-12
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The projects are removed from the project using the system function "Remove from
multiproject...". The integration of the projects is done by means of the function
"Insert into multiproject ...".
Advantages
No unexpected delays and waiting times result from lacking projects.
During the distributed processing, it is not possible to access the project by
mistake (e.g. by running cross-project functions).
Please note
When working with NetPro, pre-configured connections can already generate
warning messages due to the lack of communication partners. For the duration
of the project division, new connections can only be created as unspecified via
references.
To compile an OS server, all relevant projects (AS projects and the
corresponding OS project) must be reconnected centrally.
The master data library is not included in the project. Only the blocks that have
been previously used, contained in the block folder, are available. To use the
functions of the master data library on the distributed ES, it must be managed
as a local backup.
The projects must be locally archived.
Note It is recommended that cross-project functions are only performed if all user
projects have been reincorporated in the multiproject on the Engineering Server.
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1.4 Distributed project archive
In this variant, you distribute the multiproject including the master data library and
the project, which the project engineer has to configure.
Figure 1-13
To distribute the multiproject, archive it and move the generated ZIP archive with
Windows tools to the distributed ES.
After retrieving on the distributed ES, remove the unneeded projects from the
multiproject and delete them.
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After editing, the project is removed from the multiproject on the distributed ES,
archived and reincorporated in the original multiproject on the Engineering Server.
Advantages
The configuration engineer can access the master data library.
The functions of the Import/Export Assistant (IEA) are available.
CMT (Control Module Type) is available
During the distributed editing no unauthorized access can be made to the
Engineering Server (e.g. by running cross-project functions).
Please note
Changes in the master data library may only be done on the Engineering
Server. The changes must be then done on all distributed ES.
If all unneeded projects were deleted according to our recommendation and
you are working with NetPro, pre-configured connections can already generate
warning messages due to the lack of communication partners. For the duration
of the project division, new connections can only be created as unspecified via
references.
To compile an OS server, all relevant projects (AS projects and the
corresponding OS projects) must be reconnected centrally.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Table 1–1
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Activity Location
1. Project planning
Determining the number of project engineers
Determining the available ES PCs
Connecting the ES Pcs to the network
Determining the complexity of the project
2. Project set-up work: Engineering
Creating the multiproject Server
Configuring the SIMATIC and PC stations
Creating and synchronizing the plant hierarchy (PH)
Generating cross-project networks
Creating cross-project connections
Mass data engineering
3. Dividing the projects: Engineering
Moving projects within the network Server
Removing projects from the multiproject
Distributing the project including the multiproject
4. Distributed project editing Distributed
Editing and completing charts ES
5. Merging the projects: Engineering
Moving projects back to the multiproject Server
Reconnecting projects in the multiproject
6. Final project work: Engineering
Synchronizing the plant hierarchy (PH) Server
Merging referenced connections
Checking cross-project consistency
Compiling and downloading
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1.5 Distributed editing
Note The individual steps are described in detail in the manual "PCS 7 Engineering
System (V8.1)" /3/.
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/de/en/view/90663380
From the basic requirements mentioned in chapter 1.3, you have defined the
following sizes
Number of automation systems
Number of operator stations or OS servers
Number of project engineers
Number of available engineering stations
Networking of the engineering stations
Configuration duration
You have therefore decided for a station-specific or project-specific structure of the
multiproject.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Start the PCS 7 Wizard ("File > 'New Project' Wizard..."). In 4 steps, the Wizard
guides you through the creation of the multiproject.
Figure 1-14
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Depending on the planned structure, create the other projects in the multiproject.
To do this, select the menu function "File > Multiproject > Create in Multiproject...".
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1.5 Distributed editing
Figure 1-15
Figure 1-16
Note Even for manually created projects, you can use the PCS 7 Wizard to create
preconfigured stations. For existing projects, start the Wizard with the menu
function "Insert > Preconfigured Station...".
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1.5 Distributed editing
Table 1-2
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1.5 Distributed editing
Figure 1-17
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Should the plant hierarchy of referenced projects be changed, the link must be
removed beforehand. You can do this using the function "Options > Plant Hierarchy
> Revoke link". You can revoke the PH link multiproject-wide by selecting the
multiproject or project-wide by selecting the appropriate project.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Figure 1-18
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1.5 Distributed editing
To edit projects that have been removed from the multiproject, we encourage you
to apply the already known connections in advance. You can add unspecified
connections via textual references at a later stage. The links can be closed on the
central engineering server after adding the projects to the multiproject.
Figure 1-19
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Depending on whether the distributed editing of projects should take place in the
multiproject with network connection, in the multiproject without network connection
or without a multiproject and without a network connection (project only), this is
described up to the project division in the following three ways.
However, we recommend the variant in which you copy and distribute the
multiproject.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Note Do not modify the master data library on the distributed ES, as this may no
longer be sent back to the multiproject of the Engineering Server.
The master data library should only be modified on the Engineering Server by an
authorized person. After a modification, it must be redistributed to the distributed
ES.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Figure 1-20
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The existing original project has been removed from the multiproject and stored on
the central Engineering Server. It can be left there as a backup or deleted. You can
remove the backup copy via the menu item "File" > "Delete ..." of the SIMATIC
Manager.
Figure 1-21
From the component view, you get an accurate overview of which projects are
included in the multiproject. The column "UNC Path" shows you on which ES the
projects are saved.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Note For the moving of projects to work within the network, the UNC path must be
completed correctly for each project using the notation
\\computername\sharename\... You should also read the system requirements
for networking in Chapter 2.2
After these steps, the project that was removed from the multiproject remains both
in its original form and as a ZIP archive on the drive on which it was created. Both
can be either left here as a backup copy or else deleted. You can remove the
original project via the menu entry "File > Delete...". You can delete, move or save
the ZIP archive using Windows tools.
To enable the project engineer to access the master data library on the distributed
ES, you must also copy it to the distributed ES. However, changes to the master
data library should only be made on the Engineering Server. After that, the library
must be re-distributed to the distributed ES.
You can distribute the master data library as follows:
1. Run the menu function "File > Archiving...".
2. In the "Libraries" tab, select the master data library of the multiproject. Master
data libraries are marked with a blue book symbol.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Figure 1-22
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As usual, you can copy the ZIP archive of the master data library to all distributed
ES by means of an external data storage medium. After retrieving the distributed
ES You can use the master data library as a normal library.
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1.5 Distributed editing
Note Before the project is copied or moved again to the Engineering Server, you have
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to reverse the changes that you carried out for downloading (via "PC internal
(local)").
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1.5 Distributed editing
After the projects have been edited locally, they have to be remerged into the
multiproject.
Note The project must be "physically" on the distributed ES and integrated in the
multiproject on the Engineering Server.
The distributed ES is accessible through the network.
1. If necessary: Delete the existing project of the same name (the version before
moving to the distributed ES) from the Engineering Server.
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2. In the SIMATIC Manager, open the project from the engineering server on the
distributed ES using the menu command "File > Open...".
3. Click on the "Browse..." button.
4. Go to the "Browse" menu, click in the "Search in directory" field and enter the
path of the project being moved in "UNC notation".
5. Click the "Start search" button. The project is displayed in the "User projects"
tab.
6. Select the required project in this tab and click "OK". The project opens.
7. Select the "File > Save As" menu command.
8. Make the following settings:
– Disable the "With Reorganization (slow)" check box.
– Enable the "Insert in multiproject" option.
– Select the "Current multiproject" entry in the corresponding drop-down list.
– Enable the "Replace current project" option.
9. Click the "OK" button.
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Note The choice between the adding/integrating methods depends on the method
used to remove the project from the multiproject. See chapter 1.5.3 Dividing the
projects.
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1.5 Distributed editing
After merging the locally edited projects, you can complete the entire configuration
by running cross-project functions for the first-time or once more.
1. In the SIMATIC Manager, choose the menu command "File > Multiproject
> Synchronize projects...".
2. In the tree view, select the entry "Merge Connections".
3. Click the "Execute" button. In the "Result" section, you will see all the cross-
project connections which can be merged.
4. Click on the "Apply" button. This merges all displayed connections.
Figure 1-23
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Figure 1-24
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1.5 Distributed editing
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2.1 Function mechanisms
2 Multiuser engineering
2.1 Function mechanisms
During multiuser engineering, several project engineers work on the same project,
regardless of your chosen project structure and division. The corresponding project
is located on an Engineering Server, which allows access to individual engineering
stations via network. It does not matter whether it forms part of a multiproject or if
it may have been detached and moved for editing (e.g. to a distributed ES).
Figure 2-1
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2.1 Function mechanisms
Figure 2-2
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If two project engineers open the same chart simultaneously and one of them
performs modifications, the other project engineer only sees these changes after
updating the display (F5).
When editing different objects (e.g. CFCs) in the same project, there are generally
no conflicts between them. However, caution is advised when carrying out project-
wide actions, such as AS compiling. If a project engineer attempts to change
a CFC while the AS program is being compiled, this creates a conflict with
a corresponding message window.
The following applies for all other objects in the PCS 7 project: If several project
engineers connect to the same object, e.g. the symbol table, this can only be
edited by one project engineer. The other project engineers can only open the
symbol table as write-protected.
It does not matter which way you choose to open an object. The symbol table can
be opened, for example, from the component view, the process object view or
the menu item of an editor (e.g. SCL editor). The table is always displayed in the
Symbol Editor and edited there.
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2.1 Function mechanisms
Figure 2-3
Basically, all objects can be opened as read-only by all users, but may be only
opened for editing by one user. The privilege to save the above changes is given to
the user who made the first change. All other users will receive a message saying
that the object is already being edited, and can only save their changes using the
"Save As ..." function. The object in question can only be edited again by another
user once the change has been saved by the project engineer.
As from PCS 7 V8.1, the multiuser engineering function can be enabled in the OS
project. When the function is active, the OS project can be opened multiple times
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Project
Either the multiproject or an individual project is opened via network on each
station. When doing so, it is important that the network share has been already
activated before creating the multiproject.
In order to improve performance, projects with AS stations can be saved on
the local ES using the "Save As" function for the duration of the configuring,
without being removed from the multiproject. This increases the performance.
If the "Save As" function is unfavorable because of the project situation,
performance can also be increased via remote access to the ES server (refer
to chapter 3.4 "Remote access to the Engineering Server").
Note Working via network increases the potential risks for a smooth workflow. If the
network connection breaks during a write operation, it can result in long waiting
times and possible inconsistencies in data storage. In this case, close any open
projects in the SIMATIC Manager before you continue working.
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2.2 Overview of the configuration steps
Roles in project
Create multiproject
Create station-granular projects (n times)
Archive multiproject
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Compile OS (x times)
(ESx)
Definitions for OS images
Static OS
-image size Configure OS configuration
-object types
-colors, properties
-typical image,... Load OS
Archive
multiproject
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2.2 Overview of the configuration steps
Assign a project manager for the team (Lead Engineer), who will be responsible
for cross-project functions and manage the ES server.
By working via network, you increase the risk of data inconsistencies. Therefore
for multiuser engineering, it is extremely important to have a stable network
connection between the engineering stations.
Generally, we recommend performing cross-project functions on the engineering
server where the project or the multiproject is managed.
Creating and synchronizing the plant hierarchy (PH)
Managing the master data library
Merging subnets and connections
Generating and updating the block icons
Compiling and downloading all the components present (AS, OS, ...)
Note When executing cross-project functions, one requires agreement, since at this
point one cannot work on the projects. The individual steps are described in
detail in the Configuration Manual "SIMATIC Process Control System PCS 7
Engineering System \3\".
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by whoever presses the "Apply" button last or closes the dialog with "OK".
This procedure is therefore not recommended.
No obstructions are to be expected when editing various objects of one OS on
several stations. The individual editors or pictures can only be opened
simultaneously by one user. It is also partially possible to view the configured data
in read-only mode if the editors are open.
CAUTION If several project engineers are working on the same object, update the
view by pressing F5 before carrying out any further steps. This ensures
that the real actual state is displayed.
Try to avoid this mode of operation by coordinating the work. There should be no
simultaneous access to the same resources, such as assigning parameters to
the same connections of a particular block type. For long read or write actions,
the project planners must coordinate with each other.
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Tools
PCS 7 offers several tools that considerably reduce the chance of conflicts when
editing charts of the same station or within the same project:
Conflict handling
A typical conflict situation is, for example, a parallel change on the same object.
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The project engineer always receives the privilege to save the change, as he was
the first one to make it. All other project engineers usually receive a message
indicating that the object is read-only or occupied by another process.
Figure 2-5
Generally, the parallel opening (reading) of objects or their properties does not lead
to any conflict and can be performed by all users.
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Summary
Table 2–1
Action Restrictions
Editing various charts of an AS on None
various ES.
Editing the same charts of an AS on Restricted – changes made by the other
various ES. configuration engineer are only visible after
updating the view (F5 key).
Prioritizing actions
Different priorities are assigned to the individual transactions. Basically, in the
event of an access conflict, the higher priority action is always executed. In this
case, the lower priority action is canceled. A short reading action has the lowest
priority and a long writing action has the highest priority.
Table 2–2
Action type Read/write action Behavior
Short read actions Opening charts If short read actions are additionally
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(without resource Opening run sequence carried out, no conflicts should occur.
allocation) are: If a short or long write action is
Opening dialog boxes
executed in parallel, it may cause an
access conflict, which results in the
short read action to be canceled.
Short write Instantiation, If a short or long write action is
actions parameter executed in parallel, the action
(without resource assignment, launched later can result in an access
allocation) are: interconnection, etc. conflict.
Close dialog box with
OK
Long read actions AS-OS data transfer If an access conflict does not occur
(with resource (OS compilation) immediately when launching the long
allocation) are: read action, because for example,
a write action is being already
executed in parallel, this action is
executed with no access conflict.
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Import/export functions
of ES objects of the
VCM
Signaling conflicts
The same chart (CFC or SFC) can theoretically be edited at the same time by
several project engineers. However, a maximum of one project engineer can
access the database at any one time with writing permissions. If an action cannot
be executed, the following message (example) is displayed:
Figure 2-6
Due to the short time required to write to the database, such conflicts are extremely
rare.
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Note When opening an already opened CFC/SFC, a message box appears stating
that the chart is already open. The configuration engineer must then decide
whether to open the chart again.
If project engineers work simultaneously CFC/SFC, they should coordinate their
activities.
In general, the project engineers should coordinate their activities when working
on the same CFC/SFCs. When a conflict occurs, at the latest, the project
engineers must determine among themselves which change is to be saved.
Long read and write processes are better carried out on the ES server or
wherever the respective project is stored, after coordination between all project
engineers. This prevents conflicts automatically.
CAUTION Ensure that all work has been completed on the AS program when loading
the automation system. This guarantees that when compiling, a
consistently checked S7 program is downloaded to the AS.
edited by a different project engineer. Coordinate the activity with the other
project engineers. For further information, see the Function Manual "CFC
for SIMATIC PCS 7 V8.1" /2/.
With regard to projects that have been created from the very beginning
with PCS V8.1, there should be no dependencies.
Note In case of access conflicts outside the CFC/SFC, the operation is rejected
(no multiuser compliant message). Simultaneous work in the SIMATIC Manager
outside the PCS 7 ES is not supported.
Note For more information on how the system responds to conflicts, refer to the
heading "Notes on system behavior" in chapter 6 "multiuser engineering" of
the PCS 7 Function Manual "CFC for SIMATIC S7" /2/.
Here you will find information about:
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Interlocking mechanism
Each transaction has an ID and saving (allocation) is done over it. This means that
further write actions are locked to the same location in the database.
Note In the process object view (table layout) the actions of the individual program
units are allocated line by line.
Summary
Table 2–3
Action Restrictions
Editing various objects of a project on None
various ES.
Editing various objects of an AS on None
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various ES.
The same object of an AS is processed on Restricted – changes made by other
various ES. configuration engineers are only visible
after updating the view (F5 key).
Description
In the process object view, two project engineers can make simultaneous changes
to different objects without interfering with each other. The entry field in the process
object view is a simple field. The change is only saved when leaving the field
(enter, tab, arrow keys, etc.).
It should be noted that when working on the same charts, the values are not
updated automatically. After project engineer 1 changes a value, project engineer 2
could change the value immediately afterwards.
Restrictions
Case 1: Conflicts only arise when both project engineers work on the same
chart. For example, project engineer on ES1 changes values in chart A and
project engineer on ES2 also changes values in chart A. If by chance, both
attempt to access the same field simultaneously, the message "The data can
only be accessed for reading" appears.
Case 2: Several project engineers add a new comment in chart A. The
configuration engineer of ES1 starts the action first. The configuration engineer
of ES2 starts the action immediately afterwards. The configuration engineer
of ES2 gets the message "The data is currently being processed by another
application, Application: SIMATIC Manager, Computer: ES1, User name:
Login name of project engineer on ES1". The data edited on ES1 is stored.
The data edited on ES2 is discarded.
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Figure 2-7
Note If work is carried out simultaneously on the same chart from both the process
object view and the CFC editor, it will cause updating problems with the data.
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2.3.3 NetPro
Summary
Table 2–4
Action Constraint
Editing NetPro configurations of different None
projects on various ES.
Edit the same NetPro Configuration of a Restricted. The first configuration engineer
project on various ES. to open the NetPro configuration can edit
the configuration. All other project
engineers get read-only access. Changes
are visible after updating the view (F5 key).
Application scenarios
Cross-project configuration in NetPro on the ES server
Changes can only be carried out at one station
Recommendation
NetPro editing is best done from the central engineering station after creating
the multiproject. This prevents possible inconsistencies and restrictions when
compiling from NetPro.
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2.3.4 HW Config
Summary
Table 2–5
Action Restrictions
Editing various hardware configurations of None
a project on various ES.
Editing the same HW Config on various ES. Restricted. The configuration engineer that
first opens the object in HW Config can edit
the configuration. All other project
engineers get read-only access.
Write access is only possible after saving
the change.
Changes can only be done apply after
updating the view (F5 key).
Description
In principle, it is possible to allow several project engineers to configure and edit
the hardware components. If a hardware object is opened and changed in HW
Config, this object is locked against changes by other configuration engineers.
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Figure 2-8
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CAUTION If CiR is enabled, then work in accordance with the CiR conditions.
See "PCS 7 Engineering System (V8.1)" /3/
Summary
Table 2–6
Action Restrictions
Editing various symbol tables of a project None
on several ES.
Editing the same symbol table on Restricted. The first project engineer to
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Description
Project engineer on ES1 and project engineer on ES2 want to edit the symbol table
of AS1 at the same time.
Project engineer on ES1 opens the symbol table of AS1 and affects the change.
Project engineer on ES2 also opens the symbol table of AS1 and gets the
message "The symbol table occupied by another process".
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Summary
Table 2–7
Action Restrictions
Editing various field devices of a project on None
several ES.
Editing various field devices of an AS on None
several ES.
Editing the same field device of an AS on Restricted as from PCS 7 V8.0 (PDM V8.0).
several ES. As from PDM V8.0 it is possible to have
simultaneous read-only access to the same
field device from several ES. When writing
from an ES to a field device, only this single
ES field device may be opened via PDM.
Application scenarios
Various field devices from different AS can be edited on several ES.
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Requirement
To assign parameters to a field device with PDM, the necessary device
configuration files must be installed in the same way on every ES. If the project
is downloaded to an ES with a configured PDM device without first installing the
device configuration file, a message will be displayed when opening the HW Config
to indicate the lack of software. In that case, the HW Config can only be opened
with read-only access. Changes in the HW Config cannot be saved.
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Parameter assignment
A particular field device that has been configured with the Process Device Manager
can only be opened for editing by one project engineer. Other project engineers
can only open the device configuration as read-only.
Recommendation
When you open the field device via a SIMATIC PDM Manager View instead of HW
Config, you avoid restrictions in the HW Config on another ES.
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When it comes to following objects in the PCS 7 project, in principal only the first
project engineer to make a change can save that change. As long as the change
is not saved, all other project engineers only get read-only access to the object.
This is indicated by an appropriate message.
Connections
Sources (AWL, SCL, KOP, FUP)
Blocks
Symbol table
Figure 2-10
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2.3.8 OS project
Since PCS 7 V8.1, it is possible to open an OS project remotely from all connected
engineering stations. This functionality must be activated in the SIMATIC Manager
for the OS projects contained in the multiproject.
Summary
Table 2–8
Access scenario Remarks
Opening of resources based on a database The first computer to open the resource
(e.g. tag management) gains full access. The others gain no
access or read-only.
Opening of file-based resources It is not possible to access files that are
(e.g. process pictures). already open.
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Figure 2-11
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Figure 2-12
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Data consistency
The consistency of data is ensured by marking the resources being used in the
database as occupied. This ensures that no data can be changed simultaneously
by two users.
In the project properties, you can click on the "Resources" button to display the
currently allocated resources. Assigned resources are shown to you including the
user name and computer name.
In certain circumstances it could happen that resources are marked as occupied
when in truth they are not. In this case, the resources can be released manually
by means of the "Release" button.
Note To rule out inconsistencies in the data, it must be ensured that the resources are
really not being used anymore before the manual release.
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Figure 2-13
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Figure 2-15
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Process pictures can only be opened by one project engineer. If a process picture
is already open in another engineering station when one tries to open it remotely,
it will be prevented from opening. The following message is shown.
Figure 2-17
Figure 2-18
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Note Always complete the OS engineering for an OS project on the same engineering
station. During the planning phase, this should be the ES server.
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Application case
One or several project engineers are working with AS engineering, while another
project engineer updates or completes the process pictures in the in the Graphics
Designer of the associated OS.
During this process, the OS project engineer can access the blocks which have
been already configured in the AS, even if they still haven't been created explicitly
and completely via OS compilation. He can do this by using the so called "ES tags"
in the tag selection of the Graphics Designer.
Figure 2-19
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Note The implicit compilation by selecting ES tags is only available for station-specific
design and not for project-specific design. This means that the AS and OS must
be contained in various projects.
Name changes in the PH are not automatically updated when using ES tags.
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Options
In PCS 7, you can start the functions for compiling and downloading from various
editors. There are differences in the functional scope. The following table provides
an overview of the possibilities for compiling and downloading of PCS 7
components:
Table 2–9
Editor Function
HW Config Compiling and downloading the hardware configuration
NetPro Compiling and downloading the network and connection
configuration as well as the hardware configurations
Charts (CFC/SFC) Compiling and downloading the AS program
SIMATIC Compiling and downloading individual objects or all objects of
Manager a multiproject via selection windows
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Note We recommend that you always carry out the compiling and downloading of all
objects from the Engineering Server. Also coordinate the activity with the other
project engineers. The multiproject or integrated projects cannot be opened on
any ES, otherwise there will be a conflict and the entire compiling process is
canceled.
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Note Always complete the OS compiling and downloading for an OS project from the
same engineering station.
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3 Higher-level topics
3.1 Central control station for several PCS 7 systems
3 Higher-level topics
3.1 Central control station for several PCS 7 systems
If the question arises, how to control several PCS 7 systems from a common
control room, SIMATIC PCS 7 provides two different approaches, depending on
the installed PCS 7 versions. It is assumed that a separate multiproject exists for
every system.
Cross-multiproject OS clients
If the PCS 7 versions are identical in the systems, the central control room could
be, for example, equipped with cross-multiproject OS clients. When configuring
these particular OS clients, you can refer to the following article:
"How in PCS 7 do you configure the cross-multiproject access to the OS servers
(multiclient mode) for an OS client?"
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/de/en/view/67261722
client can connect to all web servers if compatible with the latest web server.
For example, a web client based on PCS 7 V8.1 can connect to the following
stations:
Web Server V8.x
Without use of SFC functions
– Web Server V7.x
The setting up of PCS 7 web servers and web clients is described in the manual
"SIMATIC Process Control System PCS 7 Web Option for OS (V8.1)".
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/de/en/view/90682846
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3 Higher-level topics
3.2 Licensing
3.2 Licensing
The PCS 7 Engineering licenses are of the "floating" type, i.e. they can be used by
several ES over the network. They can also be accumulated, which can be seen in
the "Number" column of the Automation License Manager.
All licenses for an operator station are of the "single" type, i.e. they must be
available on the respective target station.
Figure 3-1: "Connect Computer ..." function in the PCS 7 V8.0 environment
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Application scenarios
For larger systems, it makes sense to set up the ES server as a central license
station in order to manage all licenses from it.
In the Automation License Manager of the ES server, add the other ES using the
"connect computer..." function. In the end, this will allow you to transfer the
required "single" type licenses to the operator stations.
In the Automation License Manager, add the ES server to each ES as an additional
computer so that floating licenses can be used for the engineering on the other ES
via network.
However, if several project engineers carry out simultaneous engineering, a
complete set of licenses must be present on the ES server for each ES.
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3.3 Archiving
3.3 Archiving
Archive the project status regularly in a defined location. To do this, adjust the
archiving settings in the SIMATIC Manager beforehand, according to your needs.
Due to the division into projects, when you carry out changes within a project it is
sufficient to back up just the specific project, rather than to archive the entire
multiproject. This is only necessary if cross-project functions have been performed.
General notices
If you are archiving projects and you receive a message saying that the objects are
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still locked, click on "Details" to see which objects are locked. The following objects
are often the cause of the message:
The SIMATIC PDM ASSET service is not in the "Stopped" state.
– Under Details, you will see the entry saying that the "pdmdata.db" or
"pdmlock.db" files are in use by another application.
– Open the tool "SIMATIC PDM ASSET Service Manager".
– Click "Stop" in the "SIMATIC PDM Service Asset Manager" menu.
– Restart the archiving process.
OS database files are not yet separated from the SQL Server.
– Under Details, you see the entry saying that "*.ldf" or "*.mdf" files are in
use by another application.
– Reopen the appropriate OS project in WinCC Explorer.
– Close the project in WinCC Explorer using the menu command
"File > Close".
– Close WinCC Explorer.
– Restart the archiving process.
Notes on locked files can also be found in the Windows Computer Management,
in "Shared folders> Opened files > Lock count column". Here, the value should not
be greater than "0".
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3.4 Remote access to the Engineering Server
Tools
With the optional PCS 7 Trail version you create version states for multiprojects,
projects and libraries. Other functions of the Trail version are automatic archiving
and automatic readback.
Reference
Configuration manual “PCS 7 Engineering System” /3/
Post "Why is it sometimes not possible to archive a PCS 7 project with the
SIMATIC Manager or SIMATIC Trail?"
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/de/en/view/67598869
Possible functions
The following actions can be, for example, started remotely on the ES server when
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Reference
"How do you access WinCC and PCS 7 plants with "RealVNC"?"
https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/de/en/view/55422236
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4 Literature
4 Literature
4.1 Internet links
This list does not purport to be complete and only provides a selection of suitable
information.
Table 4-1
Subject area Title
\1\ Siemens Industry http://support.industry.siemens.com
Online Support
\2\ Article download https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/22258951
page
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5 History
5 History
Table 5-1
Version Date Change
V1.0 09/12/2007 First edition on the PCS 7 V7.0 SP1 DVD
V2.0 11/05/2009 Layout adjustment on applications & tools design
V3.0 11/15/2011 Multiuser engineering for CFC/SFC extended by additional
ES/OS components
V3.1 07/03/2012 Basis PCS 7 V7.1 SP3: Chapter supplemented or extended
V4.0 07/02/2013 Basis PCS 7 V8.0 SP1: Revised version
V5.0 05/11/2015 Basis PCS 7 V8.1: Revised version, chapter supplemented
or extended
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