Proficy* HMI/SCADA - iFIX

BUILDING A SCADA SYSTEM

Version 5.0
August 2008

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Table Of Contents
About This Guide .............................................................................................................................. 1
Reference Documents .............................................................................................................. 1
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 3
Database Manager ................................................................................................................... 3
Understanding a Database ........................................................................................................... 3
Understanding Database Blocks .............................................................................................. 4
Understanding Chains .............................................................................................................. 5
Processing the Database ......................................................................................................... 5
Using the Process Database ........................................................................................................ 6
Trending Process Data ............................................................................................................. 6
Creating Scripts and Schedules with Process Data .................................................................6
Archiving Process Data ............................................................................................................ 7
Sample Application ....................................................................................................................... 7
Getting Started..................................................................................................................................9
Starting and Stopping Database Manager ................................................................................... 9
Using the Database Spreadsheet.................................................................................................9
Understanding Spreadsheet Properties ................................................................................. 10
Working with the Pop-up Menu .............................................................................................. 10
Editing the Spreadsheet ......................................................................................................... 10
Working with the Database Manager Ribbon ............................................................................. 10
Setting Database Manager Preferences .................................................................................... 11
Creating a Process Database: Overview ................................................................................... 11
Implementing a Process Database.................................................................................................13
Sample Process Application ....................................................................................................... 13
Designing a Chain ...................................................................................................................... 14
Describing the Sample Process Application ........................................................................... 15
Analyzing the Sample Process ............................................................................................... 16
Designing an Automation Strategy for the Sample Process .................................................. 17
Writing an Automation Algorithm for the Sample Process ..................................................... 17
Matching Process Steps to Block Types ................................................................................ 18
Drawing a Flowchart for the Sample Chain ............................................................................ 20
Understanding Chain Designs ....................................................................................................23
Building Large Databases .......................................................................................................... 23
Saving Large Databases ........................................................................................................ 24

iii

Working with Analog and Digital Blocks ..................................................................................... 24

Working with Database Blocks ....................................................................................................... 25
Block Types and Descriptions ....................................................................................................25
Understanding Primary Blocks ............................................................................................... 27
Understanding Secondary Blocks .......................................................................................... 28
Understanding Control Blocks ................................................................................................ 29
Understanding Statistical Process Control Blocks .................................................................30
Understanding Batch Blocks ..................................................................................................31
Understanding SQL Blocks ....................................................................................................31
Understanding Database Dynamos........................................................................................ 32
Database Dynamo Configuration Utility.................................................................................. 34
Block Fields ................................................................................................................................ 36
Locating Block Fields .............................................................................................................. 37
Completing Block Dialog Boxes ............................................................................................. 37
Scan Times .................................................................................................................................37
Understanding Time-Based Processing ................................................................................. 38
Understanding Exception-Based Processing ......................................................................... 39
Understanding One Shot Processing ..................................................................................... 41
Phasing ....................................................................................................................................... 42
Assigning Phase Times .......................................................................................................... 43
Overphasing ........................................................................................................................... 44
Block Modes ............................................................................................................................... 44
Understanding PMAN Mode ...................................................................................................46
Understanding Blocks in PAUT Mode .................................................................................... 47
Placing Blocks On and Off Scan ................................................................................................ 47
Blocks with Long Scan Times.................................................................................................48
Example: Placing Blocks with Long Scan Times On Scan..................................................... 48
Using the S Parameter ........................................................................................................... 48
I/O Drivers ...................................................................................................................................48
Using the OPC Client I/O Driver ............................................................................................. 51
Using the Simulation Driver ....................................................................................................51
Using the Simulation 2 Driver .................................................................................................55
Understanding Alarm Statuses ............................................................................................... 60
Connecting to an OPC Server ................................................................................................ 63
Understanding Signal Conditioning ............................................................................................ 63
Understanding EGU Limits .....................................................................................................64
Working With the Process Database .............................................................................................. 67

iv

Creating a New Database .......................................................................................................... 67

Opening and Closing a Database............................................................................................... 67
Adding Blocks ............................................................................................................................. 67
Adding Multiple Blocks ........................................................................................................... 68
Duplicating Blocks ...................................................................................................................... 70
Copying and Pasting Blocks ....................................................................................................... 71
Moving Blocks............................................................................................................................. 71
Modifying Blocks ......................................................................................................................... 72
Displaying Block Information ..................................................................................................73
Deleting Blocks ........................................................................................................................... 73
Saving a Database ..................................................................................................................... 73
Saving a Database from a Script or a Program Block ............................................................ 73
Locating and Displaying Data ......................................................................................................... 75
Finding Data in a Spreadsheet ...................................................................................................75
Find Options ........................................................................................................................... 75
Replacing Data ........................................................................................................................... 76
Find Options ........................................................................................................................... 76
Using Go To................................................................................................................................ 76
Updating and Pausing the Spreadsheet ..................................................................................... 76
Customizing the Spreadsheet ....................................................................................................77
Coloring the Spreadsheet ....................................................................................................... 77
Creating a Non-Scrolling Column ........................................................................................... 77
Defining a Spreadsheet Layout .............................................................................................. 78
Saving and Loading Spreadsheet Layouts ................................................................................. 78
Overriding the Default Layout .....................................................................................................79
Troubleshooting Tag Display ...................................................................................................... 79
Querying and Sorting Data ............................................................................................................. 81
Understanding Query Syntax .....................................................................................................81
Using Boolean Operators ....................................................................................................... 83
Using Wildcards in a Query ....................................................................................................83
Grouping Queries ................................................................................................................... 84
Editing a Query ........................................................................................................................... 84
Refining and Expanding a Query................................................................................................ 85
Saving and Loading a Query ...................................................................................................... 85
Overriding the Default Query ...................................................................................................... 86
Understanding Sort Orders ......................................................................................................... 86
How Sort Orders Work ........................................................................................................... 86

Saving and Loading a Sort Order ............................................................................................... 86

Changing the Default Sort Order ................................................................................................ 87
Managing Databases ...................................................................................................................... 89
Verifying Databases.................................................................................................................... 89
Correcting Errors .................................................................................................................... 90
Reloading Databases ................................................................................................................. 90
Reloading a Database from a Visual Basic Script ..................................................................91
Displaying a Database Summary ............................................................................................... 91
Exporting Databases .................................................................................................................. 92
Exporting a Database from the Command Line .....................................................................93
Editing the Export File ............................................................................................................ 94
Importing Databases................................................................................................................... 97
Advanced Topics ............................................................................................................................ 99
Changing a Database's Scanning Order .................................................................................... 99
Understanding a Database's Scanning Order ........................................................................ 99
Changing the Order of Solve ................................................................................................ 101
Customizing the Toolbar ...........................................................................................................101
Customizing the Tools Menu ....................................................................................................102

vi

About This Guide

Building a SCADA System is intended for process engineers responsible for designing and building a
process database. This manual shows engineers how to create, modify, and delete blocks and chains. It
also teaches the skills engineers need to sort, query, and optimize iFIX databases.

Reference Documents
For related information about iFIX, refer to the following documents:

Understanding iFIX

Writing Scripts

Creating Recipes

Building a SCADA System

Introduction
iFIX provides process information for plant managers, supervisors, and operators in the form of
reports, displays, archived data, alarms, messages, and statistical charts. The sources of this
information are OPC servers or process hardware the controllers, sensors, motors, switches, and
other devices required to manufacture your product.
iFIX reads process information from these devices and saves it in one or more process databases
residing on your SCADA servers. The database plays an integral part in your industrial automation
strategy; it is the primary source of process data for most iFIX applications. Whether you collect
historical values or generate shift reports, iFIX enables you to create a database that supports your
specific industrial control and automation needs.

Database Manager
Your main tool for creating and managing process databases is Database Manager. This program lets
you open and configure the database of any SCADA server. You can also:

Query and sort the database.

Find and replace database information.

Import and export a database.

Generate multiple database blocks automatically.

Customize your display.

Understanding a Database
Every SCADA server loads a process database at start-up. Once loaded, the database:

Receives values from an I/O driver or OLE for Process Control (OPC) server.

Manipulates values according to its configuration (a control strategy).

Compares the values to alarm limits you define.

Outputs adjusted values to the I/O driver or OPC server.

Sends alarms to operator displays, printers, files, and network alarm destinations.

The following figure illustrates how values enter a database, travel through a sequence of blocks, and
exit the database as output.

Building a SCADA System

I/O Data and the Database

Understanding Database Blocks

The main components of a process database are blocks. Blocks are capable of:

Receiving values either from another block, OPC server, or directly from an I/O driver.

Manipulating values according to its configuration.

Comparing incoming values against pre-defined limits.

Scaling process values to a specified range.

Performing calculations.

Outputting values back to the I/O driver or OPC server.

iFIX provides different types of blocks, each capable of performing a unique function. For a brief
description of each block, refer to the section Block Types and Descriptions.
By default, when you install iFIX, it creates an empty database for your SCADA server. Using
Database Manager, you can add the blocks you require to this database.

Next, you configure the block by entering:

The block's name.

How it receives data from an I/O driver, OPC server, or from another block.

Where it sends information.

If it manipulates values.

How it reacts to critical value changes (called alarming).

How it scales values for operator displays.

Building a SCADA System

Understanding Chains
Blocks by themselves perform specific tasks in the database. By combining two or more blocks
together, you can form chains. Each chain performs the tasks of its component blocks by passing data
from one block to the next. When properly configured, chains can generate alarms, acquire data, and
verify, automate, and maintain a process. In automating large processes involving a number of I/O
devices, a database can contain many chains, each designed to automate and maintain a specific
function or process step.

Each chain can contain up to 30 blocks, with each block configured to perform a specific processing
function. Note that some blocks are designed to work in chains while others are designed to operate on
their own. Specific types of blocks, their functions, and their relationship to one another are
summarized in the section Block Types and Descriptions.
Familiarize yourself with the available blocks. Having a good understanding of the blocks and their
capabilities allows you to quickly design optimum strategies for your application.

Processing the Database

In order for your blocks and chains to function, the Scan, Alarm, and Control program (SAC)
processes them at the time interval you define. SAC processes your blocks and chains by:

Scanning individual blocks in the chain, reading new I/O values and returning values to the
process hardware.

Alarming on incoming values if they exceed pre-defined limits you specify.

Controlling the automation process by assuring that each block verifies or manipulates
incoming values according to its configuration and sends values on to the next block in the
chain.

The following figure shows SAC reading process values, sending these values through database
chains, and returning the output values.

Building a SCADA System

SAC Processing I/O Data

Using the Process Database

Once you create a process database, your SCADA server can monitor process conditions and report
alarms. Alarms occur when an incoming value exceeds a pre-defined limit. Using the Proficy iFIX
WorkSpace, you can draw and animate any object by rotating, coloring, or scaling it when an alarm
occurs. These visual cues help operators respond to alarms in a timely fashion. For more information
on reporting alarms, refer to the Implementing Alarms and Messages manual.
For information on trending data, creating scripts and schedules, and archiving data, refer to the
following topics:

Trending Process Data

Creating Scripts and Schedules with Process Data

Archiving Process Data

Trending Process Data

SCADA servers can also trend and display real-time and historical values. Process trends enable you to
record and analyze process-critical values and allow you to:

Archive process variables to meet federal regulations.

Monitor the efficiency of products.

Maintain equipment.

Analyze post-process data.

For more information on collecting historical values, refer to the Trending Historical Data manual. For
more information on trending real-time data for operators, refer to the Creating Pictures manual.

Creating Scripts and Schedules with Process Data

Using Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) or the Scheduler, you can adjust database values, place
blocks on scan or off scan, change a block's mode, or launch a script based on a value change or an

Building a SCADA System

alarm. For example, using a time-based schedule, you could set the values of a dozen blocks prior to
the manufacture of your product or you could automatically ramp a value based on an event (such as a
valve closing). Likewise, you could write a script to monitor the value of a block and, when an alarm
occurs, open a diagnostic picture. For more information on using these features, refer to the Writing
Scripts and Mastering iFIX manuals.

Archiving Process Data

In addition to using scripts and schedules to write values to the process database, you can use a
relational database. Writing values from a relational database is similar to writing values with a script.
In both cases, values are written at a pre-defined time or when an event occurs (such as a contact
opening). However, unlike scripts and schedules, writing data from a relational database requires that
you configure the SQL Trigger and SQL Data blocks in the process database.
These blocks also let you archive data to a relational database. Once the relational database receives
and stores the process data, you can query it to retrieve and analyze any information. For more
information on setting up and using a relational database, refer to your ODBC manuals and the Using
SQL. For more information on process database blocks, refer to the iFIX Database Reference.
IMPORTANT: If you are working in a secure environment and using the Electronic Signature option,
you must be aware of the impact of unsigned writes to the process database. Unsigned writes can
originate from scripts, schedules, and writes from a relational database. Refer to the Implications of
Database Writes With Electronic Signature section of the Using Electronic Signatures manual for
detailed information.

Sample Application
To help you understand how to create process databases for yourself, this manual uses a sample
application for manufacturing fertilizer and monitoring chemical consumption and equipment usage.
The blocks and chains that comprise the application were developed by the Enviro company which
collects sludge generated by municipal sewage plants and converts it into different grades of
agricultural fertilizer in briquette form. The Enviro company's manufacturing process encompasses:

Continuous control

Batch control

Discrete parts

Building a SCADA System

Getting Started
You can begin creating process databases by verifying that your SCADA servers are set up and
functioning. Once you set up these computers, follow the steps.
To get started:
1.

Install iFIX on each SCADA server.

2.

Configure each server with the System Configuration Utility (SCU). Refer to the Setting up
the Environment manual to learn how to enable SCADA support.

3.

Set up the alarm area database for each server. This database contains the alarm areas you can
assign to the blocks on the SCADA server. If you want to share an alarm area database across
multiple servers, change the Alarm Area path in the SCU to reference a file server before you
create your process databases.

Starting and Stopping Database Manager

You can start Database Manager by clicking the Database Manager button on the Application toolbar
(Classic view) or by selecting Database Manager, in the Process Database group, on the Applications
tab (Ribbon view). As the program starts up, it prompts you to select the SCADA server you want to
connect to and establishes a connection to the computer you select. Once Database Manager connects
to the selected SCADA server, the program opens the server's current database.
From the Database Manager, you can open databases from SCADA nodes with iFIX 3.0 or greater
installed. You cannot add, modify, or delete blocks in databases from earlier versions of iFIX, such as
iFIX 2.5 or FIX32.
To exit from the program, in Classic view, select Exit from the File menu or in Ribbon view, click the
Database Manager button, and then click Exit.
NOTE: Connections to remote SCADA servers are established with a physical node name, not logical
node names. Logical and physical node names are identical unless you enable SCADA redundancy.
For more information about this feature, refer to the Mastering iFIX manual.

Using the Database Spreadsheet

Each process database you open appears as a spreadsheet in Database Manager. Blocks appear as rows,
and block fields appear as columns. Click to select a row or field. You can also select multiple rows
and columns by clicking and dragging.
The following topics provide more information about the database spreadsheet:

Understanding Spreadsheet Properties

Working with the Pop-up Menu

Editing the Spreadsheet

Building a SCADA System

Understanding Spreadsheet Properties

The database spreadsheet has many properties you can configure. Among these are:

The sort order.

The default query.

The display format.

The color scheme.

The font properties.

By configuring these properties you can customize the spreadsheet as needed. To learn more about
these properties, refer to the chapters Locating and Displaying Data and Querying and Sorting Data.

Working with the Pop-up Menu

In addition to the properties you can configure, the spreadsheet lets you right-click any row, column, or
cell to display a menu containing a list of frequently-accessed commands. These commands are
identical to commands you can access from the menu bar. For example, Cut on the pop-up menu is
identical to Cut on the Edit menu. Similarly, Add Block on the pop-up menu is identical to Add on the
Blocks menu.

Editing the Spreadsheet

You can edit most spreadsheet cells by selecting them and entering the data you want to display,
allowing you to change individual items quickly. Cells in certain columns, such as the Tagname
column, are read-only and cannot be modified.
To change multiple fields for a particular block, you can double-click the block to display its dialog
box. To change the same field for multiple blocks, you can find and replace data in a spreadsheet
column. Refer to the chapter Locating and Displaying Data to learn more about finding and replacing
data.
Exchanging Data
Database Manager also lets you edit blocks by copying or exporting them. Whenever you complete
these tasks, the program converts the selected blocks into comma separated value (CSV) format,
enabling you to paste or import the data into your favorite text editor or spreadsheet. Once you edit the
data, you can copy or import the data back to Database Manager.
Often a quicker way to convert blocks into CSV format is by holding down the Control key and
dragging and dropping the blocks from Database Manager and into Microsoft Excel. The blocks you
move appear in CSV format, allowing you to edit them. When you finish, you can drag them back. To
learn more about using Excel with the Database Manager, refer to the section Copying and Pasting
Blocks.

Working with the Database Manager Ribbon

Across the top of the spreadsheet is the Database Manager Ribbon. The Ribbon, shown in the
following figure, provides access to common database operations such as saving a database or adding a
block.

10

Building a SCADA System

Setting Database Manager Preferences

Database Manager provides preferences for printing, saving, displaying, and editing the database.
These preferences let you adjust how Database Manager handles certain operations. The following
table summarizes the preferences you can enable.
Database Manager Preferences
The...

Let you...

Printing
preferences

Print the database while you configure a block or start another iFIX program.

Saving
preferences

Save the current spreadsheet settings or the process database when you exit
Database Manager.

Display
preferences

View or hide:

Spreadsheet row numbers

The status bar

The Database Manager toolbar

You also have the option to set the automatic refresh rate.
Editing
preferences

Open block dialog boxes in view or modify mode when you double-click a cell in
the spreadsheet. In view mode, you can examine the block configuration but not
modify it. The block and its chain remain on scan at all times. In modify mode,
you can examine and change the block configuration. The block and its chain are
placed off scan even if you do not modify the block.
You also have the option to place edited blocks and chains on scan automatically
when you finish editing them. By default, this option is disabled and Database
Manager prompts you to place modified blocks on scan.

Creating a Process Database: Overview

You can create a process database by following these steps.

11

Building a SCADA System

To create a process database:

1.

Create primary blocks for your I/O points.

2.

Create any additional blocks you need and connect them to your primary blocks to form
chains.

3.

Verify the database for errors.

4.

Correct any errors and fine-tune the database.

To learn how to create database blocks, refer to the section Adding Blocks. For information on using
standard VBA naming conventions when creating tags, refer to VBA Naming Conventions. For
information on verifying and correcting database errors, refer to the section Verifying Databases.

12

Building a SCADA System

Implementing a Process Database

Implementing a SCADA strategy requires you to collect the following information:

Flowcharts of your processes.

A list of I/O driver or OPC server addresses.

Your alarm requirements.

The type of signal conditioning and the range of values that your process hardware can
measure. The range of values is called the EGU range.

After you have this data, you are ready to design a database. To help illustrate how to do this, this
chapter walks you through the process of designing a chain for the Enviro company, introduced in the
section Sample Application. Using these examples, you should be able to create your own blocks and
chains for your process database.
As you read this chapter, you may find it helpful to skip ahead and learn how to add a block with
Database Manager so that you can create the sample chains described here. By creating sample chains,
working with Database Manager, and correcting errors, you learn how to avoid mistakes before you
create your actual database.

Sample Process Application

The first step in designing a database is to examine the application that you want to automate. Next,
assign specific processing, maintenance, and monitoring tasks. For example, the Enviro company
identified the following tasks, the specific iFIX features they would use to accomplish them, and the
economic benefits.
The key elements of this application also apply to processes in other industries, such as chemical
processing, food processing, and even discrete parts manufacturing.
Automating the Sample Process with iFIX
Production Tasks:

Schedule
production
with sales
orders.
Process
sludge into
fertilizer.
Produce
different
grades of
fertilizer on

iFIX Application:

Economic Benefits:

Schedule recipes for batch processing.

Increase production
through scheduling.

Perform supervisory
control, direct digital
control, and alarming.

Download a recipe for

each grade of fertilizer.

Trend chemical levels

and print chemical
usage reports.

Trend pump/value
usage and print

Produce a
higher
quality
product.

Increase
plant
availability
by
scheduling
preventative

13

Building a SCADA System

Automating the Sample Process with iFIX

Production Tasks:

iFIX Application:

demand.

Economic Benefits:

maintenance reports.

Monitor
chemical
usage and
maintain
inventory.

Maintain
equipment.

Maintain
fertilizer
count.

Archive
processing
data.

Historically trend the

process.

maintenanc
e.

Lower
operating
costs by
making
better use of
materials
and
lowering
labor cost.

Increase
responsiven
ess to
market
conditions
by varying
product
size,
compound,
color, and
water
content.

Increase
profit.

Calculate the total

product weight
according to batch and
perform statistical
quality control.

Designing a Chain
Once you know the tasks you want to accomplish, you can design the chains for your database. The
easiest and most efficient way to design a functional chain is to use the following design steps:
To design a chain:
1.

2.

Analyze your process and make a record of the data you need, including:

I/O addresses of the device controller (a wiring list)

Device types

Signal conditioning

The EGU range

Design an automation strategy that explains how you want your process automated. For
example:

14

What types of alarms and alarm limits do you want to establish?

Building a SCADA System

How often do you want the chain processed?

When do you want operators notified of process events?

How do you want process disruptions handled?

3.

Create an algorithm that combines your process analysis and automation strategy. This
determines how iFIX automates your process and provides the specific processing instructions
you will enter into block dialog boxes.

4.

Match the steps in your algorithm to blocks capable of performing these steps.

5.

Draw a flowchart listing the block types that perform each step along with the specific
processing instructions for each block.

The example presented in the following subsections illustrates the thought process involved in
designing a simple chain.

Describing the Sample Process Application

Analyzing the Sample Process

Designing an Automation Strategy for the Sample Process

Writing an Automation Algorithm for the Sample Process

Matching Process Steps to Block Types

Drawing a Flowchart for the Sample Chain

Describing the Sample Process Application

One step in the Enviro company's sludge conversion process is neutralizing acids and alkali in the
sludge. The treatment process involves four steps:
1.

Adding and mixing water with the sludge.

2.

Adjusting the sludge's pH to neutralize any acid or alkali.

3.

Adding potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus to produce different grades of fertilizer.

4.

Pumping the prepared sludge to the filter press where excess water is removed to form
fertilizer briquettes.

The remainder of this chapter focuses on the second step: pH adjustment.

Sludge from the collection tank is periodically pumped into a large tank where water is added to make
the sludge easier to mix. A sensor in the tank registers the sludge's pH level. If the sludge is acidic, a
device controller turns on a pump that adds an alkaline solution into the tank to raise the pH; if the
sludge is alkaline, the device controller turns on a pump that adds an acidic solution into the tank to
lower the pH. In either case, the sludge's pH is properly adjusted according to the grade of fertilizer
that is needed before it is pumped to the filter press. The following figure shows the pH adjustment
tank and its equipment.

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Building a SCADA System

pH Adjustment Tank
The next step is to design a chain that examines and adjusts the sludge's pH by:

Retrieving information from the pH sensor (data acquisition).

Sequencing pumps and maintaining pH (Direct digital control).

Once you complete these tasks, you can add blocks to monitor pH fluctuations, chemical usage, pump
usage, down time, and other statistical information. You can also historically trend this information,
print it in reports, and display it to operators.

Analyzing the Sample Process

The first step in automating your process is analyzing how the process works. By developing a detailed
process analysis first, you save time because you isolate the tasks that simple chains can complete and
identify those tasks that require more complex chain designs. For example, a task in the Enviro
company might be "if the pH is greater than 8.5, add the acidic solution until it reaches 7.5."
The steps required to adjust the pH are:
1.

Test the pH each hour.

2.

If the pH is below 5.5, gradually add an alkali solution; if above 8.5, gradually add an acidic
solution.

3.

Stop adding the solution when the pH is between 6.5 and 7.5.

Although this analysis describes how the process works, it lacks important information about your
control devices. You need to add detailed information on I/O driver or OPC server addresses, the type
of controller equipment, signal conditioning, and maximum ranges the equipment can accept. In short,
record all detailed information on how the process equipment operates.
After you obtain this information, you can go on to write a detailed analysis of your process. The
following table presents a sample analysis of the pH monitoring and adjustment process.
Sample Process Analysis

16

The pH sensor analog address:

1:1:30001

Acid pump's digital address:

1:1:40004:8

Building a SCADA System

Sample Process Analysis

Alkali pump's digital address:

1:1:40004:5

Device controller:

MB1

Signal conditioning:

LIN

EGU range:

0.0 to 14.0

Designing an Automation Strategy for the Sample Process

The next step in designing a database chain is planning a successful automation strategy. This requires
you to determine how you want to automate the steps recorded in your process analysis. The following
steps provide a sample automation strategy for the pH adjustment process.
1.

Receive pH information from the sensor at set intervals.

2.

Perform alarming. Set HIHI, HI, LO, LOLO, and ROC (rate of change) alarm limits.

3.

Sequence pumps to maintain pH.

4.

If the pH is below 5.5, turn on the alkaline pump.

5.

If the pH is above 8.5, turn on the acid pump.

6.

Repeat step 1 through 5 at set intervals.

Notice how this automation strategy incorporates an alarming plan for handling process upsets, such as
extreme pH fluctuations (rate of change). This helps to assure that empty drums of acidic and alkaline
solutions do not go unnoticed and equipment failures do not interrupt your treatment process.

Writing an Automation Algorithm for the Sample Process

The next and most important step in designing the pH adjustment chain is writing an algorithm that
combines both the process analysis and automation strategy. The following figure shows how the
technical specifications outlined in the process analysis are combined with the automation needs listed
in the automation strategy.

17

Building a SCADA System

Creating an Automation Algorithm

The algorithm forms the basis of your chain; it identifies the order in which the process proceeds,
where each step acquires information, and how iFIX gathers, processes, and verifies information.

Matching Process Steps to Block Types

The next step is finding the right database blocks to perform the steps outlined in the algorithm. This
process transforms the algorithm from written steps into a chain schematic. Moreover, this step ensures
that you incorporate iFIX capabilities into your processing plans. Once you complete this design step,
you can enter your designs into your SCADA server's database.

When matching blocks to steps, select a block that can perform the function of a step. In many cases,
one block type can handle more than one step, whereas some steps may include too many functions or
too many complex operations for any one block.
For your pH adjustment process, the following blocks satisfy the algorithm:
1.

18

An Analog Input block can receive analog signals from the pH sensor's address.

Building a SCADA System

2.

The Analog Input block can also accommodate the alarming requirements, so this task is
assigned to this block.

3.

The pumps are turned on or off based upon the value that the Analog Input block receives
from the pH sensor. The block required for this step must be able to monitor an analog input
and, depending on the value of the input, open or close a digital output point.

The digital outputs are sent directly to the acid and alkali pump addresses. The On-Off
Control block can perform this function.

Since the On-Off Control block can turn the pumps on and off without the use of any other
block, this completes step 3.

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Building a SCADA System

At this point you've identified the blocks that can perform all the steps in your algorithm.

Drawing a Flowchart for the Sample Chain

The last step is to draw a flowchart showing:

The chained blocks.

Their names.

Their I/O addresses.

Additional instructions on how these blocks handle information.

The flowchart is a visual representation of the chain and shows the instructions you will enter into each
block as you add them to the database. The following figure shows a flowchart for the pH adjustment
process.

Chain Flowchart
Typically, your chain designs are seldom perfect the first time you implement them. With Database
Manager, you can always re-evaluate the design of your chain, add blocks, remove blocks, modify
block configurations, or change block types to those that accommodate more sophisticated automation
functions.
The best approach to re-evaluating the design of your chain is to examine the original automation
algorithm and determine if other blocks provide more flexibility or features over the existing blocks.
For example, after testing the sample chain, Enviro engineers found it works well most of the time, but
every so often the adjustment process exceeds acceptable pH limits by pumping in too much acidic
solution, which lowers the pH beyond acceptable limits. The following figure illustrates this problem.

Sample pH Problem
You want the capability of pumping in acid at short intervals. In the original design, iFIX scans the

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Building a SCADA System

chain every four minutes. This allows the acid more time to react with the sludge before more acid
enters the tank. An additional improvement would be to shorten the chain's scan time, providing more
pH sampling to determine which solution needs to be pumped into the tank.
By re-examining the automation algorithm, you can determine where to make improvements to the
chain. Reproduced below is the original automation algorithm that called for the On-Off Control block.

If the pH is below 5.5, turn on the pump to add an alkaline solution. If the pH is above
8.5, turn on the pump to add an acid solution.

Acid pump digital address: 1:1:40004:8

Alkaline pump digital address: 1:1:40004:5

If the pH is between 5.5 and 8.5, stop all pumps.

What you want to do is modify this algorithm to run the acid pump for shorter intervals, giving the acid
time to decrease the pH before the acid is turned on again. To do this, you need to examine if other
blocks can perform this task.
One block capable of turning a pump on or off is the Program block. You can replace the On-Off
Control block with the Program block. However, the Program block cannot establish direct digital
contact with the acid and alkali pumps. For this you need to use two Digital Output blocks, one for
each pump.
The following figure shows the replacement of the On-Off Control block with the Program block and
the two Digital Output blocks, and represents how information passes from one block to the next.

Chain Modification
NOTE: The figure Chain Modification illustrates how the data flows from one block to another, not
the actual chain structure.
The following figure provides the new programming instructions required to operate the Program and
Digital Output blocks.

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Building a SCADA System

Modified Flowchart
With this modification and with the Analog Input block's scan time reduced to one minute, the chain
handles pH adjustment more efficiently by allowing the Program block to run short programs that
adjust the pH. The following figure shows how the modified chain handles pH adjustment.

Proper pH Adjustment Trend

With the pH adjustment complete, you might want to consider how to provide more control over the
monitoring process. For example, if your operators need to monitor pH fluctuations, you can use a
chart to provide a real-time trend for operators.
Data trended by a chart is not stored. To store the real-time data use a Trend block. Then with a chart
you can view these values directly on an operator display. The following figure shows the same control
chain with a Trend block added to the chain.

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Building a SCADA System

Trend Block Insertion

Adding other blocks, such as the Statistical Data block, allows you to display statistical data in a graph.

Understanding Chain Designs

The chain shown from the sample application performs data acquisition and control. These types of
chains usually receive inputs from an I/O driver or OPC server through an input block, manipulate the
inputs with secondary blocks, and return an adjusted value to the I/O driver or OPC server through an
Analog Output, Digital Output, or On-Off Control block, as the following figure shows.

Sample Data Acquisition and Control Chain

You can also create chains that collect data for monitoring purposes. These types of chains usually
receive inputs from an I/O driver or OPC server through an input block but may not return the inputs,
since no process adjustment is required. The following figure shows a sample monitoring chain design.

Sample Monitoring Chain

The number of chains you can construct is limited only by memory.

Building Large Databases

With Database Manager you can create very large databases. If you do this, keep in mind:

The size of the database that you can construct is limited by the amount of memory you have
available in your computer.

Plan your database carefully. A database that implements a good scan time and phasing

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Building a SCADA System

scheme will provide better system performance than the same database that has its blocks
scanned all at once.

iFIX provides a number of features that can aid in processing large databases:

Exception-based processing (triggered by a change at the I/O address).

One shot processing.

Long scan times (up to 24 hours with phasing configurations of up to HRS:HRS,

HRS:MIN, MIN:MIN, MIN:SEC, and so forth).

Subsecond processing.

For more information on these topics, refer to the section Scan Times.

Saving Large Databases

Make sure you have enough disk space available when saving your database to disk. If your SCADA
server does not have enough disk space, you may lose the changes you have just made. For example, if
you build a 3MB database, make sure you have 3MB of free disk space available.

Working with Analog and Digital Blocks

When planning your automation strategy you may want to consider using Analog Input and Digital
Input blocks, or Analog Register and Digital Register blocks. All four blocks combine read/write
capabilities and eliminate the need for separate output blocks.
Analog Register and Digital Register blocks also have specific addressing and configuration
requirements:

Neither block can cross a poll record boundary.

You select signal conditioning for an Analog Register block when you configure it. This
selection applies to all picture objects associated with the block.

Offsets to Float or Long data types must be in 2-word (4 byte) increments. This adjusts for the
32-bit word size of these data types.

Neither block should be used with exception-based poll records.

Although we do not recommend it, if you choose to use Analog Register or Digital Register
blocks with exception-based processing, verify that no database block or offset address points
to the same address as an exception-based database block. For further information, refer to
your I/O driver manual.
If your I/O driver or OPC server supports structured data types (Timers, Counters, etc.), these
data types only support an offset of 0 for Analog and Digital registers.

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Building a SCADA System

Working with Database Blocks

Your main task when setting up a SCADA server is creating blocks for your process database. In
general, you can create a block by completing its dialog box. However, in order to configure a block,
you should understand the basic database concepts, such as scan times and phasing. This chapter
discusses these and other database concepts.

Block Types and Descriptions

Block Fields

Scan Times

Phasing

Block Modes

Placing Blocks On and Off Scan

I/O Drivers

Understanding Signal Conditioning

Block Types and Descriptions

Typically, every SCADA server comes with two types of blocks: primary and secondary. The main
difference between these block types is that primary blocks have scan times and are first in a chain.
Secondary blocks do not have scan times and are never first in a chain.
You can also purchase the following types of optional blocks:
Database Options
The option...

Provides...

Refer to the section...

Control

Continuous, PID, direct, and digital

control.

Understanding Control Blocks to

learn more about control blocks.

Statistical
Process Control
(SPC)

Statistical data analysis and

calculations, alarming, supervisory
control, and display of statistical data.

Understanding Statistical Process

Control Blocks to learn more
about SPC blocks.

Batch

State-driven, interlocked, and batch

control.

Understanding Batch Blocks to

learn more about batch blocks.

SQL

Read and write access to a relational

database on a remote server.

Understanding SQL Blocks to

learn more about SQL blocks.

The following table summarizes the differences among all the blocks. For detailed information on

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Building a SCADA System

blocks, refer to the iFIX Database Reference.

Block Summary

26

Block Type

Primary

Secondary

Analog Alarm (AA)

Analog Input (AI)

Analog Output (AO)

Analog Register (AR)

Boolean (BL)

Calculation (CA)

Dead Time (DT)

Standard

Optional

x
x (Control)

Device Control (DC)

x (Batch)

Digital Alarm (DA)

Digital Input (DI)

Digital Output (DO)

Digital Register (DR)

Event Action (EV)

Extended Trend (ETR)

Fanout (FN)

Histogram (HS)

x (SPC)

Lead Lag (LL)

x (Control)

Building a SCADA System

Block Summary
Block Type

Primary

Multistate Digital Input (MDI)

On-Off Control (BB)

x (Control)

Pareto (PA)

x (SPC)

PID (PID)

Secondary

Standard

Optional

x (Control)

Program (PG)

x (Batch)

Ramp (RM)

x (Control)

Ratio/Bias (RB)

x (Control)

Signal Select (SS)

x (Control)

SQL Data (SQD)

x (SQL)

SQL Trigger (SQT)

Statistical Control (SC)

x (SQL)
x

Statistical Data (SD)

Text (TX)

x (SPC)
x (SPC)
x

Timer (TM)

Totalizer (TT)

Trend (TR)

NOTE: The tag count limit per tag type is 32,767.

Understanding Primary Blocks

Primary blocks receive data from an I/O driver or OPC server and generate alarms based upon this

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Building a SCADA System

information. Primary blocks are usually associated with one or more pieces of process hardware. For
example, a pump, a tank, a temperature sensor, a photo cell, a limit switch are all process hardware
with which you might associate a primary block.
Most primary blocks, listed in the following table, also include a scan time. The scan time controls
when SAC scans the blocks in the database. Refer to the section Scan Times to learn more about them.
Standard Primary Blocks
The block...

Function:

Analog Alarm
(AA)

Provides read/write access to analog data and lets you set and acknowledge
alarms.

Analog Input (AI)

Provides read/write access to analog data and lets you set alarm limits.

Analog Output
(AO)

Sends analog data to an I/O driver or OPC server when the upstream block,
an operator, a Program block, a script, or an Easy Database Access (EDA)
program supplies a value.

Analog Register
(AR)

Provides read/write access to analog data only when a Data link connected to
the block appears on an operator display.

Boolean (BL)

Performs boolean calculations based upon up to eight inputs.

Digital Alarm
(DA)

Provides read/write access to digital data and lets you set and acknowledge
alarms.

Digital Input (DI)

Provides read/write access to digital data and lets you set alarm limits.

Digital Output
(DO)

Sends digital data to an I/O driver or OPC server when the upstream block,
an operator, a Program block, a script, or an Easy Database Access (EDA)
program supplies a value.

Digital Register
(DR)

Provides read/write access to digital data only when a Data link connected to
the block appears on an operator display.

Multistate Digital
Input (MDI)

Retrieves digital data for up to 3 inputs from an I/O driver or OPC server,
combines the inputs into one raw value, and lets you set alarm limits.

Text (TX)

Lets you read and write a device's text information.

Understanding Secondary Blocks

Secondary blocks manipulate data according to your instructions. Secondary blocks usually receive
input from an upstream or primary block and perform a specific function with that input, such as

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Building a SCADA System

perform a calculation or store several successive input values. Therefore, a secondary block cannot be
the first block of a chain. However, you can connect secondary blocks to create a chain like the one
shown in the following figure.

Chain Showing Secondary Blocks

Note that the first block in the chain is a primary block. This block is the primary source of data for the
next block in the chain and determines the scan time for the entire chain. The following table lists the
available standard secondary blocks.
Standard Secondary Blocks
The block...

Function:

Calculation
(CA)

Performs mathematical calculations using values from the upstream block and
up to seven other constants or block values.

Event Action
(EV)

Monitors values or alarm conditions of the upstream block and performs actions
based on the upstream block's output.

Extended
Trend (ETR)

Allows you to collect up to 600 real-time values from an upstream block. You
can display these values as a graph by adding charts to your pictures.

Fanout (FN)

Sends the value it receives from its upstream block to up to four additional
blocks.

Signal Select
(SS)

Samples up to six inputs, manipulating the inputs according to a user-selected

mode, and outputs a value to the next block.

Timer (TM)

Counts time by incrementing or decrementing its value.

Totalizer (TT)

Maintains a floating-point total for values passed to it from upstream blocks.

This block sends values up to six digits in precision to other blocks. It can
display up to fifteen digits of precision in an operator display.

Trend (TR)

Allows you to collect up to 80 real-time values from an upstream block. You

can display these values as a graph by adding charts to your pictures.

Understanding Control Blocks

Control blocks provide continuous, direct, or digital control capability. The following table lists the
available control blocks.

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Building a SCADA System

Control Blocks
The
block...

Function:

Dead Time
(DT)

Delays the transfer of an input value to the next block in the chain for up to 255
seconds. It can store up to 60 values of incoming variables and sends values on a
first in/first out basis.

Lead Lag
(LL)

Lets you simulate process dynamics and includes a digital approximation of the
exponential equations for lead lag. This block is useful in feed-forward strategies.

PID (PID)

Compares analog inputs to a user-defined set point and sends out incremental
adjustments to bring the process variable closer to the set point.

On-Off
Control (BB)

Receives analog values and outputs digital values.

Ramp (RM)

Increases or decreases values to a target value at a specified rate. You can enter
the target values manually or they can be retrieved from other blocks. You can
define three distinct stages for the ramp process.

Ratio/Bias
(RB)

Lets you change incoming signals by adding a constant (bias) and/or by

multiplying a constant (ratio) after subtracting an offset from the signal. This
block uses less memory and executes faster than the Calculation block.

Understanding Statistical Process Control Blocks

Statistical Process Control (SPC) provides statistical data analysis and calculations, alarming,
supervisory control, and display of statistical data. The following table lists the available SPC blocks.
Statistical Process Control Blocks

30

The block...

Function:

Histogram
(HS)

Displays an input value's frequency of occurrence.

Pareto (PA)

Accepts, calculates, and sorts the frequency of up to eight input values. You can
display these values in an operator display with filled rectangles to create a bar
chart.

Statistical
Control (SC)

Adjusts a process variable based on calculations of the average offset and the
rate of deviation from a target value, XBARBAR. This block is activated if an

Building a SCADA System

Statistical Process Control Blocks

The block...

Function:
alarm is generated by a Statistical Data block.

Statistical Data
(SD)

Observes data from operator input or other blocks and performs statistical
calculations. This block allows for alarming based on standard SPC techniques.

Understanding Batch Blocks

Batch blocks are specifically designed for discontinuous (state-driven, sequenced, interlocked, and
batch) control operations. The following table lists the available batch blocks.
Batch Blocks
The block...

Function:

Device Control
(DC)

Coordinates the opening and closing of digital devices based upon userdefined conditions.

Program (PG)

Runs short programs for batch operations or to increase the degree of

automation in an application.

Understanding SQL Blocks

SQL blocks read and write data to a relational database. The following table lists the available SQL
blocks.
SQL Blocks
The block...

Function:

SQL Data
(SQD)

Identifies the data to send and retrieve between the process database and your
relational database.

SQL Trigger
(SQT)

Triggers the execution of SQL commands and defines how your relational
database interacts with the process database.

For more information about how these blocks work and how to use them, refer to the Using SQL
manual and the iFIX Database Reference.

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Building a SCADA System

Understanding Database Dynamos

iFIX can process information from one or more Database Dynamo objects, also known as loadable
blocks. Each Database Dynamo is an optional block that adds functionality to the process database. By
using Database Dynamos, you can create new blocks tailored to your needs. For example, you might
create a Dynamo that provides a custom PID or other control algorithm.
You can create a Database Dynamo by using the Database Dynamo Toolkit. After you create one, iFIX
treats your Database Dynamo like any other block in the process database. This feature enables iFIX to
process alarms from the Dynamo, along with the other alarms in the system. Database Dynamos also
enable you to:

Access the Dynamo's fields from any iFIX application.

Use Database Manager to create, configure, and manage the operation of the Dynamos in the
process database.

GE Fanuc also makes the following Database Dynamos available in the iFIX product:
iFIX Database Dynamos

32

The Database
Dynamo...

Function:

Analog Input with

Freeform Scaling
(AIS)

Essentially the same as an Analog Input block, but will also calculate a
slope for EGU limit values when signal conditioning does not apply.

Breakpoint
Linearization (BPL)

Converts a level measurement from a non-linear tank into a volume

measurement.

Transition Counter
(CTR)

Counts the transitions of a digital signal.

Extended Trend
(ETR)

Allows you to collect up to 600 real-time values from an upstream

block. You can display these values as a graph by adding charts to your
pictures.

16 Bit Digital Status

(D16)

Monitors up to 16 bits in a digital register, and enables or disables 16

independent messages.

Group Alarm (GAB)

Organizes and consolidates the display of alarm information within a

large system.

Signal Generator
(GEN)

Demonstrates, simulates, or tests. A time-based primary block.

Interval Timer (ITM)

Provides a way to time intervals (normally a digital input). It also

includes a GATE input that can be used to disable the timing without

Building a SCADA System

iFIX Database Dynamos

The Database
Dynamo...

Function:

having to place the chain off scan.

Momentary Digital
Output (MDO)

Sends a brief pulse to a digital output (for example, to start a motor).

Persistent Array
(PAR)

Provides a way to hold up to 60 numeric or text values, and 60

descriptions of those values. A primary block that operates only in
manual mode. Values are updated only when you explicitly write to it.

Improved PID (PI2)

Essentially the same functionality as the PID block, with more options.

Time Date Stamp

(TDS)

Takes a snapshot of the time of an event.

Text Register (TXR)

Monitors devices where the raw data is an ASCII string. Similar to the
Text block (TX), but not scanned.

Text Lookup Block

(TXT)

Monitors a status or command register in a PLC. Allows the operator to

see and enter meaningful strings.

Database Dynamo Configuration Utility (BTKCFG.exe)

Use the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility (BTKCFG.exe) to add the Database Dynamos in the
above table to iFIX. After iFIX is restarted, you will then be able to add blocks of these types in the
iFIX Database Manager.
To add a Database Dynamo:
1.

Double-click the Btkcfg.exe file to launch the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility. By
default, this file is located in the iFIX install folder, C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX.

2.

In the Available Database Dynamos list, select the Dynamo that you want to add and click
Add (or optionally, click Add All). This moves the specified Database Dynamos to the
Configured Database Dynamos list.

3.

On the File menu, click Save.

4.

Restart iFIX. After iFIX restarts, you will then be able to add the blocks in the above table
within the iFIX Database Manager.

IMPORTANT: Use caution in removing Database Dynamos (loadable blocks). If you use the
Database Dynamo Configuration Utility (BTKCFG.exe) to remove a loadable block but do not remove
the block from the iFIX database, an error message appears in the Alarm History that a block type is

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Building a SCADA System

missing and the blocks are not loaded.

To remove a Database Dynamo:
1.

Double-click the Btkcfg.exe file to launch the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility. By
default, this file is located in the iFIX install folder, C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX.

2.

In the Configured Database Dynamos list, select the Dynamo that you want to remove and
click Remove (or optionally, click Remove All). This moves the specified Database Dynamos
to the Available Database Dynamos list.

3.

On the File menu, click Save.

4.

Restart iFIX.

To change a slot number of a Database Dynamo:

1.

Double-click the Btkcfg.exe file to launch the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility. By
default, this file is located in the iFIX install folder, C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX.

2.

In the Configured Database Dynamos list, select the Dynamo that you want to change the slot
number for.

3.

In the Slot Number field, enter a new number. You can enter any number between 50 to 149
that is not in use. For more information on slot numbers, refer to the Understanding Slot
Numbers section.

4.

On the File menu, click Save.

5.

Restart iFIX.

Database Dynamo Configuration Utility

The Database Dynamo Configuration Utility allows you to:

Add a Database Dynamo block to an iFIX system. After you add the blocks, you must save
your configuration to modify or update the FIX.INI file.

Remove a Database Dynamo block from an iFIX system. After you remove the blocks, you
must save your configuration to modify or update the FIX.INI file.

List the installed Database Dynamo blocks in an iFIX system.

NOTE: Installing optional Database Dynamo blocks only copies the files to the hard disk.
These optional block types must be configured using this utility in order for them to appear in
the Proficy iFIX Database Manager.

Database Dynamo Block

A Database Dynamo block is an optional block that provides additional functionality to an iFIX
database. When configured, it appears in the Proficy iFIX Database Manager block listing and can be
used in any database.
NOTE: In a networked iFIX system, the Database Dynamo Blocks must be installed and configured on
all nodes. Be aware that after you add or remove blocks, you must save your configuration to modify
or update the FIX.INI file.

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Building a SCADA System

Understanding Slot Numbers

The database contains approximately 100 slots into which Database Dynamo blocks can be added.
These slots are numbered from 50 to 149. Slots 1 to 49 are reserved for GE Fanuc database blocks.
The Database Dynamo Configuration Utility generates a default slot for the Database Dynamo that you
are adding to the database. Use this slot. If you must change the Database Dynamo slot, select the
Dynamo in the configured column and enter a new value for the slot in the Slot field.
NOTE: Once a slot is selected, it should never be changed. If you must change the slot, export the
database to an ASCII file first. Change the slot of the block. Delete the database and import the ASCII
file into a new database.
Working with the Toolbar and Commands
Use the following commands and buttons to manage Database Dynamo blocks:

Save saves the current configuration. Select Save from the File menu or select the Toolbar
Save button. The FIX.INI does not get modified or updated until you save the configuration.
NOTE: If the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility (BTKCFG.exe) detects that the FIX.INI
file is locked when user clicks on OK to save, then the BTKCFG program will warn you and
then will save the modified FIX.INI file as FIXINI.SAV instead.

Exit exits the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility. Select Exit from the File menu.

Help provides access to Database Dynamo online documentation (this help system).

Adding and Removing Database Dynamo Blocks

The Database Dynamo Configuration Utility contains the following columns and buttons:

Available Column lists the Database Dynamo blocks that are available on your hard drive.

Configured Column lists the Database Dynamo blocks that are configured in your iFIX
system. These block types are available in the Database Manager.

Add button allows you to add some or all of the Database Dynamo blocks to your iFIX
system. To add a Database Dynamo to the Configured list, select the Dynamo in the Available
column and click the Add button.
NOTE: After you add or remove blocks, you must save your configuration to modify or update
the FIX.INI file.

Remove button allows you to remove one or all of the Database Dynamo blocks from the
Configured list. To remove a Database Dynamo, select the Dynamo in the Configured list and
click the Remove button. Note that removing a Dynamo from your iFIX configuration does
not remove it from the hard drive.
NOTE: If you need to remove a Database Dynamo, delete all blocks of that type from the
process database and use the Database Dynamo Configuration Utility (BKTCFG.exe) to
remove the block and update the FIX.INI.

Available Command Line Parameters

The Database Dynamo Configuration Utility (BTKCFG) supports the following command-line
parameters:

/ABTK_NAME This command line parameter allows you to add a loadable block to the

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Building a SCADA System

system without actually running the configuration program. In this command line, replace
NAME with the actual block name. There must be no space(s) between /A and the loadable
block name.

/NXXX This command line parameter allows you to determine the slot number when used
with the /ABTK_NAME command. Replace XXX with the slot number. There must be no
space(s) between /N and the slot number. Refer to the Understanding Slot Numbers section
for more information.
NOTE: If you do not specify a slot number with the /N command line, you will get the next
available slot.

Example
An example that uses both command line parameters is as follows:
BTKCFG /ABTK_AIS /N122

NOTE: If the block has already been configured, it should NOT be configured again.

Block Fields
Whenever you add a block, its configuration dialog box appears. The dialog box fields and controls
represent locations in the block called fields. These fields store the information you enter into the
dialog box. This information includes such data as the block's name, description, scan time, I/O
address, and scan status.
Other block fields receive information from your process hardware or from other blocks. For example,
a primary block's current value comes from an I/O device. However, a secondary block receives its
current value from an upstream block.
All block fields use a common naming convention:
format _ name

The format indicates the type of data that the field stores. The following table lists the available
formats:
Field Formats

36

Format:

Description:

Used in...

A_

ASCII Format.

Data links and objects in pictures.

F_

Floating-point
Format.

Data links, objects in pictures, and block-to-block references.

E_

15-Digit Precision
Format.

Data links, objects in pictures, and block-to-block references.

Valid values range from +/-3.40282300000000e+/-38, with
15 digits of accuracy.

T_

Graphic Format.

Charts.

Building a SCADA System

Refer to the Creating Pictures manual for more information on Data links, objects in pictures, and
charts.
The name indicates the specific information in the field. For example, the current value of a block is
identified by the name:
CV

The combination of the field format and the field name provides you with the information you want.
For example, if you want the current value of a block displayed as a number, you select the field
F_CV. If you want the current value of a block displayed as text, you select the field A_CV.

Locating Block Fields

You can display a list of fields for the currently selected block using the Expression Builder or the
iFIX Database Reference help. Using this information, you can configure Data links or other objects in
your operator displays to extract block field data by specifying a data source. Alternatively, you can
write a Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) script or an Easy Database Access program to extract and
display block field data. For more information about the Expression Builder, specifying data sources,
and adding Data links and objects, refer to the Creating Pictures manual.

Completing Block Dialog Boxes

The iFIX Database Reference provides information to help you complete block dialog boxes. The
remainder of this chapter provides related information for completing common block fields, such as
the scan time, phase, and I/O driver fields. Refer to these sections to learn how to configure these fields
for your blocks.

Scan Times
All primary blocks have a scan time. The scan time determines how often SAC processes the block and
sends the current value to the next block in the chain. SAC processes all secondary blocks chained to a
primary block according to the primary block's scan time.
SAC can process a chain using one of the following methods:

Time-based processing

Exception-based processing

One shot processing

Time-based processing is best used when you want to regularly scan a block. If you only need to scan a
block when its value changes, use exception-based processing instead. Similarly, you can use one shot
processing if you need to scan a block when the process database initially loads.

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Building a SCADA System

Understanding Time-Based Processing

In time-based processing, SAC processes a block at a set time. The following table lists the scan time
ranges you can enter for time-based chains.
Scan Time Ranges
Range

Increments by...

5 to 95 subseconds
(0.05 to .95 seconds)

.05 seconds
(0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20, and so forth.)

1 to 60 seconds

1 second

1 to 60 minutes

1 minute

1 to 24 hours

1 hour

SAC scans chains with hour and minute scan times based on the system clock of the local SCADA
server. Scan times are set relative to midnight (00:00:00 hours). SAC scans chains with second and
subsecond scan times based on the computer's start up time, as the following tables describes.
Time-Based Scan Time Examples
When a block has a scan time of...

SAC processes it every...

1 hour

Hour on the hour.

1 minute

Minute on the minute.

10 seconds

10 seconds from your computer's start-up time.

Assigning Time-Based Scan Times

You can assign a time-based scan time to a block by completing its Scan Time field with the following
format:
time unit

The following table lists the valid units and their abbreviations. If you do not enter a unit of time, iFIX
assumes the unit is seconds.

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Building a SCADA System

Unit

Entry

Minutes

Hours

Example: Assigning Time-Based Scan Times

To scan a block every 3 hours, enter:
3H

Because SAC processes this scan time based to the system clock, it scans the block at 0:00, 3:00, 6:00,
9:00, and 12:00 regardless of when you place it on scan.
Follow these guidelines when you assign scan times:

Assign scan times larger than the poll rate assigned in the I/O driver. This ensures that the I/O
driver has time to read and send new values to SAC before SAC scans each block again. See
your I/O driver manual for more information about the poll rate.

Phase (stagger) scan times to reduce the risk of overloading the CPU. Refer to the section
Phasing to learn more about phasing.

Assign critical process chains a more frequent scan time than non-critical chains. If you need
to have a chain scanned every 2 minutes, assign a 2-minute scan time, not a 5-second scan
time. Remember that very short scan times require more CPU time and SAC processing than
longer scan times.

If a chain does not need processing at a set time, assign exception-based processing. Doing so
will require less CPU time and improve performance.

Understanding Exception-Based Processing

Exception-based processing lets SAC scan a block or chain by exception, not at scheduled time
intervals. An exception is:

A change in a process value greater than the defined exception dead band; or

An unsolicited message from your process hardware.

Using exception-based processing generally requires less CPU time and improves performance
because SAC does not have to scan blocks at defined intervals. However, if a block's value changes
very frequently, time-based processing may be more efficient.
You can use exception-based processing only if your I/O driver supports it. Consult your I/O driver
client manual to learn if your I/O driver supports exception-based processing.
NOTE: The SM2 driver supports exception-based processing; the SIM driver does not support
exception-based processing.
CAUTION: Do not assign the same I/O address to exception-based and time-based blocks. Doing so
will cause the exception-based blocks to occasionally miss an incoming value.

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Building a SCADA System

Blocks that Work Best with Exception-Based Processing

While you can use exception-based processing with most blocks, certain blocks perform better with
exception-processing than others. You can use the following blocks in exception-based chains as
needed:

Analog Input

On-Off Control

Analog Output

Pareto

Digital Input

Ratio/Bias

Digital Output

SQL Data

Fanout

Timer

Histogram

Totalizer

Using Program and Statistical Data Blocks

Typically, the blocks listed in the following table are used as stand-alone blocks and have limitations
when incorporated in an exception-based chain.
Program and Statistical Data Block Considerations
When you add the block...

In an exception-based chain, do not use the...

Program

CALL, DELAY, WAITFOR, or WAITSTAT commands.

Statistical Data

WAIT TIME fields.

Blocks that Receive Multiple Inputs

The Boolean, Calculation, Event Action, and Signal Select blocks can use values from multiple blocks,
but SAC only processes them according to their upstream primary block's scan time. Therefore, use
these blocks with care in exception-based chains.
For example, the following figure shows a sample chain containing a Calculation block that receives
values from Analog Input blocks outside the chain.

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Building a SCADA System

Exception-Based Chain Processing

In this chain, if SAC scans AI1 by exception, then CA1 only accesses values from the remaining
Analog Input blocks when that exception occurs. CA1 does not access values based upon the scan
times of the Analog Input blocks outside the chain. This means that regardless of whether AI2 and AI3
change in value, CA1 does not recalculate its output unless triggered by AI1.
The following figure shows an improved chain design using the blocks from the previous figure. This
chain allows CA1 to recalculate its value whenever an exception occurs to any of the Analog Input
blocks and ensures all blocks are processed before the recalculating the output.

Improved Exception-Based Chain Processing

Blocks that Define a Time Constant
PID, Lead Lag, and Dead Time blocks use the local computer's system time to define a time constant.
For this reason, GE Fanuc recommends not using them in exception-based chains.
Using Analog Alarm and Digital Alarm Blocks
Analog Alarm and Digital Alarm blocks support exception-based processing. However, you must leave
the Re-alarm Time and the Delay Time fields unmodified; otherwise, SAC places these blocks (and
their chains) off scan when iFIX starts or when you reload the database. SAC processes exceptionbased Analog Alarm and Digital Alarm blocks only when an operator acknowledges an alarm from the
iFIX WorkSpace. If an operator acknowledges the alarm with the Remote Acknowledge field, SAC
does not process the block.
Assigning Exception-Based Scan Times
You can assign an exception-based scan time to a block by selecting Process by Exception from the
block's dialog box. If you are configuring an exception-based chain with multiple primary blocks, you
must enter 0 in the Scan Time field of every primary block that does not start the chain, and select the
Off Scan option button.
Configuring the primary blocks that do not start the chain in this manner ensures that SAC processes
the chain properly.

Understanding One Shot Processing

You can configure any primary block or chain to be scanned once on start-up by setting the scan time

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Building a SCADA System

to zero and placing the block on scan. Once scanned, SAC does not scan the block or chain again until
it restarts, the database is reloaded, or you place the block off scan and then on scan.
Any block with a scan time may be configured for one shot processing. However, the same restrictions
that apply to exception-based chains also apply to one shot-based chains.

Phasing
Phasing staggers the time at which SAC scans your blocks. This is particularly important for large
databases because it can dramatically improve performance. Even for small databases, phasing blocks
results in more efficient use of CPU time.
For example, if you have 3 unphased blocks with a 5-second scan time, SAC processes all 3 blocks at
the same time. The following figure shows the CPU usage when SAC processes these blocks
simultaneously.

Processing Blocks Without Phasing

By phasing these blocks, you specify when SAC processes each block. For example, if you specify a 1second phase for the first block, SAC scans the block as the following figure shows:

Phasing for Block 1

If you specify a 2-second phase for Block 2, and a 3-second phase for Block 3, you can avoid

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Building a SCADA System

processing the blocks simultaneously and evenly distribute the block processing and the CPU work
load, as the following figure shows.

Phasing Block Scan Times for Multiple Blocks

Phasing Second and Subsecond Blocks
Normally, when you specify a phase for a block with a second or subsecond scan time, SAC offsets the
block's initial scan by the phase time when iFIX starts or when the database is reloaded. However,
SAC ignores the phase when:

A Program or an Event Action block places the phased block on scan.

An operator or script places the block on scan.

Assigning Phase Times

You can define the phase time by entering it into the Phase field. The phase you enter must have the
same unit or one unit lower than the scan time unit, as the following table describes.
Phase Time Formats
If the Scan Time is in...

The Phase Time must be in...

Hours

Hours:Minutes

Minutes

Minutes:Seconds

Seconds

Seconds

Subseconds

Subseconds

For example, if the scan time is 5 minutes, you enter a phase of 1 minute and 30 seconds as follows:
1:30

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Building a SCADA System

To specify a 30-second phase instead, enter 0:30.

Overphasing
You can also overphase your blocks. An overphased block is one that has a larger phase than scan
time. For example, assume you have the chain shown in the Exception-Based Chain Processing figure.
In this chain, AI2 and AI3 have 5-second scan times. AI1 is overphased with a 5-second scan time and
a 10-second phase. This delays AI1 by 10 seconds and ensures that SAC scans AI2 and AI3 before
AI1. This means that the Calculation block receives the most recent values on which to perform its
functions.
Overphasing and Long Scan Times
SAC only lets you overphase blocks with second or subsecond scan times. For blocks with a scan time
of a minute or more, you can create an initial offset from the time that SAC would normally scan the
block. For example, assume you want to scan a block every 6 hours with an offset of 2 hours and 10
minutes. You can configure the offset by entering the following phase in the Phase field:
2:10

Because the scan time is linked to the system clock, SAC always scans the block at 2:10, 8:10, 14:10,
and 20:10 regardless of when it was placed on scan. Also remember, SAC scans blocks with scan
times of one minute or longer immediately when iFIX starts or when the database is reloaded. To
forego this initial scan, start SAC with the S command line parameter. Refer to the section Controlling
SAC Startup in the Setting up the Environment manual for more information on specifying SAC
command line parameters.

Block Modes
Blocks can receive data from the following sources:

Other blocks.

An I/O driver or OPC server.

The keyboard (using Data links).

Recipes.

Easy Database Access programs.

Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) scripts.

You can control from where a block receives data by setting its mode, as the following figure shows:

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Building a SCADA System

Placing a block in Manual mode does not place it off scan; SAC still processes the block using its last
value. Manual mode only prevents a block from receiving data from an I/O driver, an OPC server, or
the upstream block. SAC also scans exception-based blocks when they change mode (from Automatic
to Manual mode or vice versa). While in Manual mode, SAC accepts any input within the EGU range
and immediately scans the block. No deadband checking is made on these values.
You can toggle a block's mode from an operator display by adding an object to the display and then
using the Toggle Tag Auto/Manual Expert from the Task Wizard. To display a block's mode from an
operator display, add a Data link that references the block's A_AUTO field. If you have enabled inplace data entry when configuring the data link, you can then modify that block's mode from the
operator display by clicking on the Data link and entering AUTO or MANL. You can also modify a
block's mode from the Database Manager by entering AUTO or MANL in the Curr Mode column for
the selected block.
NOTE: Blocks perform alarming in both Automatic and Manual modes.
The exact function of certain blocks depends on their mode, as the following table describes
Blocks in Automatic and Manual Modes
The
block...

In automatic mode...

And in manual mode...

Analog
Input

Reads and writes data every

scan cycle.

Receives data from operators entering values,

scripts, Program blocks, recipes, or Easy
Database Access (EDA) programs, but does not
output values.

Device
Control

Executes all statements

without interruption.

Suspends execution until the block is placed in

Automatic mode.

Digital
Input

Reads and writes data every

scan cycle.

Receives data from operators entering values,

scripts, Program blocks, recipes, or EDA

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Building a SCADA System

Blocks in Automatic and Manual Modes

The
block...

In automatic mode...

And in manual mode...

programs, but does not output values.

PID

Performs PID adjustments.

Set points can be changed
through a Data link in this
mode.

Suspends automatic PID outputs. This allows

you to change the output from the block. Block
values, such as the set point and tuning
parameters, can be changed from the keyboard.

Program

Executes all statements

without interruption.

Suspends execution of its statements until the

block is placed in Automatic mode. When the
block is switched back to Automatic mode, it
continues from where it stopped.

Statistical
Control

Feeds information back into

your process when the
Statistical Data block
generates an alarm.

Suspends feedback.

Statistical
Data

Performs online statistical

process control on incoming
data from other blocks.

Suspends online data observations. Used for offline statistical process control.

Understanding PMAN Mode

As blocks change from Automatic and Manual modes, they enter a pending state. This state indicates
that SAC has acknowledged the mode switch and will change it on the next scan.
Blocks placed into Manual mode enter PMAN mode. The block remains in this state until SAC scans
the block again. While in PMAN mode, SAC continues to scan the block according to its scan time and
phase. Manual entries from an operator or a Program block force SAC to scan the block immediately
and put it into Manual mode. Scans after a manual entry depend on the block's scan time.
Example: Blocks in PMAN Mode
For blocks with short scan times, the next scan time occurs relative to the manual entry. For example,
suppose SAC scans the block AI1 at 1:15:30. This block has a 30-second scan time and a 5-second
phase. If an operator puts AI1 into Manual mode and enters a value at 1:15:45, SAC scans the block
immediately and resets AI1's next scan to 1:16:15 and every 30 seconds thereafter. If the operator
subsequently enters another value at 1:15:50, SAC scans AI1 again and reset AI1's next scan to
1:16:20 and every 30 seconds thereafter.
For blocks with scan times of a minute or longer, SAC synchronizes the next scan to the system clock.
For example, assume AI2 has a one hour scan time and a 30-minute phase. If an operator placed the
block into Manual mode and enters a value at 15 minutes past the hour, SAC scans AI2 immediately

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Building a SCADA System

and on the half hour.

Understanding Blocks in PAUT Mode

Blocks placed in Automatic mode enter PAUT mode. The block remains in this state until SAC scans
the block again. While in PAUT mode, SAC scans the block as if it were in Automatic mode.
Example: Blocks in PAUT Mode
For blocks with short scan times, this means that the next scan time occurs relative to the last scan. For
example, suppose SAC scans AI1 at 1:15:30. This block has a 30-second scan time. If an operator
changes the block's mode to Automatic, SAC:
1.

Puts the block into PAUT mode.

2.

Scans the block again at 1:16:00, placing it in Automatic mode.

For blocks with long scan times, SAC synchronizes the next scan to the system clock. For example,
assume AI2 has a one hour scan time and a 30-minute phase. If an operator places the block into
Automatic mode, SAC:
1.

Puts AI2 into PAUT mode.

2.

Scans the block again on the half hour, placing it into Automatic mode.

Placing Blocks On and Off Scan

SAC processes all database blocks placed on scan when it starts or a database is loaded. By default,
Database Manager prompts you to place on scan each block you add. SAC stops processing a block or
a chain when:

From the iFIX WorkSpace, you select an object connected to a primary block and you run a
script that places the block off scan.

You modify a block with Database Manager. Modifying a block while SAC is processing that
block's chain places the entire chain off scan. As an option, you can set up Database Manager
to automatically place the modified block and its chain on scan when you finish editing it.
Refer to the section Setting Database Manager Preferences to learn more about Database
Manager options.

You delete any block within a chain. Refer to the section Deleting Blocks to learn more about
removing blocks from the process database.

Statements in Program blocks, Event Action blocks, or an EDA program place a chain's
primary block off scan.

You connect the blocks in a chain incorrectly and SAC cannot scan the chain. Use Database
Manager's Verify command to determine which blocks are improperly chained. Refer to the
section Verifying Databases to learn about examining your database for errors.

A Program block finishes processing its statements and exits, the Program block does not
execute again until the database is reloaded or the block is turned off and placed back on scan.

You can place a block off scan from the Scan Status column displayed in the spreadsheet.

An operator clicks an object with a VBA script that places a block off scan. You can quickly
add such a script to an object with the Turn Tag Off Scan button. To use this button, you must
first drag it from the CommandTasks toolbar category onto a toolbar. To learn how to display
toolbar categories and add a button to a toolbar, refer to the section Customizing Toolbars in

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Building a SCADA System

the Understanding iFIX manual.

Placing a primary block off scan turns that block's entire chain off scan. You can put the chain back on
scan by:

Opening an operator display, selecting an object connected to the chain's primary block, and
running a script that places the block on scan.

Setting up a Program or an Event Action block that places the chain back on scan.

Changing the text in the Scan status column from OFF to ON.

Adding or modifying a block with Database Manager or the iFIX WorkSpace. Depending on
the options selected, both programs can automatically place the block on scan.

An operator clicks an object with a VBA script that places a block on scan. You can quickly
add such a script to an object with the Turn Tag On Scan button. To use this button, you must
first drag it from the CommandTasks toolbar category onto a toolbar. To learn how to display
toolbar categories and add a button to a toolbar, refer to the section Customizing Toolbars in
the Understanding iFIX manual.

Blocks with Long Scan Times

Blocks that have long scan times react differently to on/off scan changes than blocks that have short
scan times. If you change the block's scan status, it enters a pending state: PON (pending on) or POFF
(pending off). This state indicates that a scan status change was requested and is pending, but SAC has
not placed the block off or on scan. While a block is in PON, new values are ignored.

Example: Placing Blocks with Long Scan Times On Scan

Assume you have a block with a one hour scan time and you place it on scan 45 minutes into its scan
cycle. The block enters the PON state and remains there for 15 minutes in order to synchronize it with
SAC. Once synchronized, SAC changes the block's state and places it on scan.

Using the S Parameter

By default, SAC changes a block's scan status shortly after entering the pending state. However, if
SAC was started with the "S" command line parameter, the block remains in the pending state until
SAC is ready to scan it.

I/O Drivers
In order for each primary block in the database to receive data, you must connect to your I/O using an
I/O driver. The driver you select depends on your process hardware. GE Fanuc sells drivers for many
types of hardware. Contact your GE Fanuc Sales Representative or visit the GE Fanuc web site at
http://www.gefanuc.com for a list of available drivers.
After you purchase a driver and install it, you can start specifying I/O points you want the current
block to use. If the I/O point does not exist, Database Manager starts your I/O driver configuration
program so you can add it. Refer to your I/O driver documentation to learn how to add an I/O point to
your driver configuration.
iFIX supplies an OPC Client I/O driver, as well as two simulation drivers.

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Building a SCADA System

OPC Client Driver

The OPC Client driver provides the interface and communications protocol between OLE for Process
Control servers and iFIX.
The OPC Client driver supports the following features:

Analog register and digital register database blocks

Special addressing for analog output and digital output blocks

Text blocks

Item property I/O addresses for text blocks

Block writes

Data arrays

Exception-based processing

Latched data

Simulation Drivers
You can use the SIM and SM2 to test your chains before you connect to real I/O. The simulation
drivers are matrixes of addresses. Database blocks read values from and write values to these
addresses. If one block writes to a specific address, other blocks can read the same value from the same
address. You can save these values when you save the process database; however, iFIX removes them
from memory when SAC starts or you reload the database.
Both drivers have the following in common:

Provide a matrix of addresses that database blocks can read from and write to.

Support analog and digital database blocks.

Support text blocks.

The drivers differ in the following ways:

The SM2 driver...

The SIM driver...

Provides three independent sets of registers.

Analog blocks automatically access the
analog registers, digital blocks
automatically use the digital registers, and
Text blocks automatically access the text
registers.

Provides one set of registers shared by both

analog, digital, and text blocks.

Changing a register in one set does not

change the same register in the other set.
For example, if you change the value of the
analog register 1000, the value of the digital
register 1000 is unchanged.

Changing an analog register in the SIM driver

modifies the register for analog, digital, and text
reads. For example, if you change the value of the
analog register 1000, you also modify the value of
the same digital register.

Provides 20,000 analog, 20,000 16-bit

digital registers, and 20,000 text registers.

Provides 2000 analog and digital registers, a total

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Building a SCADA System

The SM2 driver...

The SIM driver...

of 32,000 bits.

50

Stores analog values in 4-byte (32-bit)

floating point registers, numbered 0 to
19999. Incoming values are not scaled.

Stores analog values in 16-bit integer registers,

numbered 0 to 2000. Incoming 32-bit values are
scaled to 16-bit values (0 - 65535).

Digital values are stored in 16-bit integer

registers, numbered 0 to 19999.

Digital values are stored in 16-bit integer registers,

numbered 0 to 2000.

Text values are stored in 8-bit registers

numbered 0 to 19999. Each register holds
one text character for a total of 20,000 bytes
of text.

Text values are stored in the same area as analog

and digital values, numbered 0 to 2000.

Provides a register to simulate

communication errors.

Cannot simulate communication errors. However,

the SIM driver does provide registers RA through
RK and RX through RZ to generate random
numbers. For more information, refer to the Using
Signal Generation Registers in the SIM Driver
section.

Supplies a C API that allows applications to

access SM2 analog, digital, and text values.

Does not support a C API for accessing SIM

values.

Supports exception-based processing.

Does not support exception-based processing.

Supports latched data for Analog Input,

Analog Alarm, Digital Input, Digital Alarm
and Text blocks when a simulated
communication error is enabled.

Does not support latched data.

Can read and write the individual alarm

status of each SM2 register.

Cannot read and write the individual alarm status

of any SIM register.

Does not provide alarm counters.

Provides alarm counters that show the general

alarm state of a SCADA server. For more
information, refer to the Using Alarm Counters
chapter of the Implementing Alarms and Messages
manual.

Building a SCADA System

Using the OPC Client I/O Driver

The OPC Client I/O driver allows you to bring OPC data into and out of iFIX. It is automatically
installed with iFIX; however, if you choose to create a customized install program, the OPC Client I/O
driver is an optional component.
To use the OPC I/O Driver:
1.

In the Database Manager, in the Driver field for the primary block, select OPC - OPC Client
vx.xx from the list.

2.

Click the Browse button next to the I/O Address field. The Browse I/O Address dialog box
appears.

3.

Select an I/O point from an available server and group, and then click OK to exit the dialog
box. The I/O Address field will display the following:
Server;Group;ItemID[;AccessPath]

When you click out of the I/O Address field, ;No Access Path will be appended to the existing
text, like this:
Server;Group;ItemID;NoAccessPath

4.

If applicable, from the Signal Conditioning list, select a format for mapping the values
coming from your process hardware.

5.

If applicable, from the Hardware Options list, select a device control addressing format for the
database block. This selection is overridden if you select a datatype from the Requested
Datatype list on the Item Configuration page of the OPC Client I/O driver Power Tool.

For detailed information, refer to the OPC Client Driver online help.

Using the Simulation Driver

You may prefer to use the SIM driver over the SM2 driver for one or more of the following conditions:

Generating a repeating pattern of random and predefined values to help you test your chains.

Using alarm counters to show the general alarm state of your SCADA server.

To use the SIM driver:

1.

In the primary block's Driver field, type SIM.

2.

Complete the I/O Address field with the following syntax:

register:bit

For analog values, the register ranges from 0 to 1999. The bit is not used.
For digital values, the register ranges from 0 to 1999. The bit is 0 to 15. The full range of register/bit
settings is 0:0 to 1999:15.
NOTE: The SIM driver does not support analog scaling (A_SCALE_* and F_SCALE_* database
fields).
Examples: SIM Addresses
0:0

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Building a SCADA System

50:2
63:15

The SIM driver shares only one set of registers for Analog and Digital blocks. As a result, you can
address all 2000 registers as analog or digital values. The following table shows the digital bit values
when a SIM register contains an analog value.
SIM Analog and Digital Values

52

When the Analog Value is...

The Bits for Digital Values are...

65535

Bits 15 to 0 are set to 1

32768

Bit 15 is set to 1
Bits 14 to 0 are set to 0

32767

Bit 15 is set to 0
Bits 14 to 0 are set to 1

255

Bits 15 to 8 are set to 0

Bits 7 to 0 are set to 1

Building a SCADA System

SIM Analog and Digital Values

When the Analog Value is...

The Bits for Digital Values are...

Database Manager does not accept entries into the Hardware Options and Signal Conditioning fields
when using the SIM driver. In addition, the SIM driver supports:

Only five-digit precision instead of the standard seven-digit precision.

Time-based processing; you cannot use exception-based processing.

The output of good values. The SIM driver does not output bad values. If you are testing your
system for fault tolerance, remember that the SIM driver does not send communication errors
(BAD values).

Using Signal Generation Registers in the SIM Driver

To help you test your database with simulated input, the SIM driver provides a set of registers that
generate a repeating pattern of random and predefined values. For example, you could ramp a value to
simulate the performance of specific chains or you might generate a series of random numbers to test
the entire database.
To assign one of these registers to a block:
1.

Enter SIM in the block's Driver field.

2.

Complete the I/O Address field with the following syntax by entering a two-letter register
acronym as listed in the SIM Signal Generation Registers table:
register:bit

The bit portion is needed only when using a digital block.

Example
To ramp a value with the RA register, enter the following text in the I/O Address field:
RA

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The following table lists the available registers.

SIM Signal Generation Registers

54

The
register...

Lets you...

Valid
Entry

RA

Ramp a value from 0 to 100% of the EGU range at a rate

controlled by the RY register.

Read only

RB

Count from 0 to 65535 at a rate of twenty counts per second.

Read only

RC

Shift one bit through a 16-bit word at a rate controlled by the

RZ register.

Read only

RD

Generate a sine wave from 0 to 100% of the EGU range at a

rate controlled by the RY register.

Read only

RE

Generate a sine wave from 0 to 100% of the EGU range at a

rate controlled by the RY register. The sine wave is delayed 90
degrees relative to the RD register.

Read only

RF

Generate a sine wave from 0 to 100% of the EGU range at a

rate controlled by the RY register. The sine wave is delayed
180 degrees relative to the RD register.

Read only

RG

Generate random values between 25% and 75% of the EGU

range.

Read only

RH

Ramp up a value to 100% of the EGU range and then ramp it

down to 0% again at a rate controlled by the RJ register.

Read only

RI

Control the ramp direction of the value in the RH register.

When zero, register RH ramps down; when one, RH ramps up.
The value automatically changes when RH reaches 0 or 100%
of its EGU value.

Numeric
Value (0 or
1)

RJ

Control the ramp speed (in cycles per hour) for the value in
register RH. The default value is 60 (1 cycle per minute).

Numeric
Value (2 to
3600)

RK

Enable or disable the generation of the value in the RH register.

Enter zero to freeze (disable) ramp and a non-zero value to
enable it.

Numeric
Value (0 or
1)

Building a SCADA System

SIM Signal Generation Registers

The
register...

Lets you...

Valid
Entry

RX

Enable or disable the generation of values in the other registers.

Enter zero to freeze (disable) all registers and a non-zero value
to enable all registers.

Numeric
Value (0 or
1)

RY

Control the speed (in cycles per hour) at which new values are
generated for registers RA, RD, RE, and RF. By default, the
RY register is set to 60 (1 cycle per minute).

Numeric
Value (2 to
3600)

RZ

Control the speed (in bits per minute) that the register RC
changes its value. By default, the RZ register is set to 180 (3 bit
shifts per second).

Numeric
Value (2 to
1200)

All SIM registers support Analog Input, Analog Register, Digital Input, and Digital Register blocks.
However, as the following table describes, certain blocks provide optimum performance when used
with certain registers.
The block...

Works best with the register...

Analog Input

RA, RD, RE, RF, RG, and RH

Analog Output

RJ, RY, and RZ

Analog Register

RA, RD, RE, RF, RF, RH, RI, RJ, RK, RX, RY, and RZ

Digital Input

RB and RC

Digital Register

RB, RC, RI, RK, and RX

NOTE: The RB and RC registers support Digital Register offsets of A_0 to A_15.

Using the Simulation 2 Driver

You may prefer to use the SM2 driver over the SIM driver when one or more of the following
conditions occur:

You have more test data than the SIM driver can hold.

You want to determine how the database responds to 32-bit values.

You need to access the driver from a C program.

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Building a SCADA System

Accessing SM2 Registers

The SM2 driver matrix consists three independent sets of registers, one for analog values, one for
digital values, and one for text values. Analog database blocks read from and write to analog registers
only. Once a block writes a value, other analog blocks can read the value from the register written to.
Digital database blocks work the same way, reading and writing from the digital registers. iFIX clears
all SM2 values when iFIX starts.
The SM2 driver does not use the Hardware Options or Signal Conditioning fields.
To use the SM2 register:
1.

Enter SM2 in the primary block's Device field.

2.

Complete the I/O Address field with the following syntax:

For Analog values: register
For Digital values: register:bit
For Text values: register
SM2 Address Examples

Analog Examples

Digital Examples

Text Examples

1000

5000:10

2000

16435

23:15

off

Generating Bad Data with the SM2 Driver

The SM2 driver provides an S register to simulate a communication error. Using this register, all
analog and digital reads return an error as if communication to the process hardware has been lost.
To use this feature, set the S register to 1.
NOTE: The SM2 driver latches data when a simulated communication error is enabled.
Using the SM2 C API
You can access SM2 analog, digital, and text values through the C API that the driver supplies. The
file SM2API.H describes the API and the functions reside in the file SM2API.LIB. You can link this
library file to your C application to access the API's functions. You can find both files in your Base
path. By default, this path is C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX\ or C:\IFIX\, depending where
you installed iFIX.
NOTE: You must have the iFIX Integration (EDA) Toolkit installed to use this API.
Example
Suppose you are using the SM2 driver to store data from a legacy system. Using the C API and a
number of preconfigured analog blocks, you can extract your data from the legacy system and store it

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Building a SCADA System

in your process database.

C API Functions
Syntax

Values read, written, and returned

UINT16 GetAnalog(UINT16
index, FLOAT *data);

GetAnalog reads an analog value (32-bit float) to the register

indicated by 'index'.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
FE_RANGE is returned if the analog value exceeds the range
of a 32-bit float.
NOTE: GetAnalog and GetDouble access the same table in the
SM2.

UINT16 SetAnalog(UINT16
index, FLOAT data);

SetAnalog writes an analog value (32-bit float) to the register

indicated by 'index' and causes an exception for the specified
register even if the data has not changed.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
NOTE: SetAnalog and SetDouble access the same table in the
SM2.

UINT16 GetDouble(UINT16
index, DOUBLE *data);

GetDouble reads an analog value (64-bit float) to the register

indicated by 'index.'
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
NOTE: GetAnalog and GetDouble access the same table in the
SM2.

UINT16 SetDouble(UINT16
index, DOUBLE data);

SetDouble writes an analog value (64-bit float) to the register

indicated by 'index' and causes an exception for the specified
register even if the data has not changed.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
NOTE: SetAnalog and SetDouble access the same table in the
SM2.

UINT16 GetDigital(UINT16
index, UINT16 *data);

GetDigital reads 16 digital values (all 16 bits in one of the

20,000 digital registers) to the register indicated by 'index'.

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C API Functions
Syntax

Values read, written, and returned

FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
NOTE: The API can only read and write the entire 16 bit
digital register at one time. If you want to change 1 bit, you can
read the register, modify the desired bit and write the register.
However, when you modify a single bit, ensure that only one
thread in one application is accessing a digital register at one
time.

UINT16 SetDigital(UINT16
index, UINT16 data);

SetDigital writes 16 digital values (all 16 bits in one of the

20,000 digital registers) to the register indicated by 'index' and
causes an exception for all 16 bits of the specified register even
if the data has not changed.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
NOTE: The API can only read and write the entire 16 bit
digital register at one time. If you want to change 1 bit, you can
read the register, modify the desired bit and write the register.
However, when you modify a single bit, ensure that only one
thread in one application is accessing a digital register at one
time.

UINT16 SetDigitalEx(UINT
index, UINT16 data, UINT16
mask)

SetDigitalEx writes 16 digital values (all 16 bits in one of the

20,000 digital registers) to the register indicated by 'index' and
causes an exception for specific bits selected from a mask. An
exception is triggered for the bits set in the mask even if the
data has not changed.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.
NOTE: The API can only read and write the entire 16 bit
digital register at one time. If you want to change 1 bit, you can
read the register, modify the desired bit and write the register.
However, when you modify a single bit, ensure that only one
thread in one application is accessing a digital register at one
time.

UINT16
GetCommError(UINT16
*data);

58

GetCommError reads the communication error flag to the S

register. The flag is a 1 bit integer value.
FE_OK is returned always.

Building a SCADA System

C API Functions
Syntax

Values read, written, and returned

UINT16
SetCommError(UINT16 data);

SetCommError writes the communication error flag to the S

register. The flag is a 1-bit integer value. You should only pass
0 or 1 to the SetCommError function. Using any other value
can have unpredictable results.
FE_OK is returned always.

UINT16
SetAnalogAlarm(UINT16
index, INT16 alm);

SetAnalogAlarm writes an alarm status to an analog register

indicated by 'index' and causes an exception for the specified
register even if the data or alarm has not changed. To learn
more about available alarm statuses, refer to Understanding
Alarm Statuses.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16
GetAnalogAlarm(UINT16
index, INT16 *alm);

GetAnalogAlarm reads an alarm status from an analog register

indicated by 'index'. To learn more about available alarm
statuses, refer to Understanding Alarm Statuses.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16
SetDigitalAlarm(UINT16
index, INT16 alm);

SetDigitalAlarm writes an alarm status to a digital register

indicated by 'index' and causes an exception even if the data or
alarm has not changed. The same alarm is associated with all
16 bits in the digital register. To learn more about available
alarm statuses, refer to Understanding Alarm Statuses.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16
GetDigitalAlarm(UINT16
index, INT16 *alm);

GetDigitalAlarm reads an alarm status from a digital register

indicated by 'index'. To learn more about available alarm
statuses, refer to Understanding Alarm Statuses.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16 SetText(UINT16
index, char *data, int size)

SetText writes the text specified by `data' to text registers

starting at the register indicated by `index'. The number of
characters to write is indicated by `size'. Exception-based
processing is not supported for text values. SetText does not
automatically add a null terminator to the text being written. If

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C API Functions
Syntax

Values read, written, and returned

you require null-terminated strings, make sure your program
adds a null terminator prior to writing the text.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16 GetText(UINT16
index, char *data, int size)

GetText reads the text specified by `data' from text registers

starting at the register indicated by `index'. The number of
characters to read is indicated by `size'. GetText does not
automatically add a null terminator to the text being read. If
you require null-terminated strings, make sure your program
adds a null terminator after reading text.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16
SetTextAlarm(UINT16 index,
INT16 alm)

SetTextAlarm writes an alarm status to a text register indicated

by 'index'. When a block reads data from the SM2 driver, the
alarm status of the first byte is returned. The status of additional
bytes is ignored. To learn more about available alarm statuses,
refer to Understanding Alarm Statuses.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

UINT16
GetTextAlarm(UINT16 index
INT16 alm)

GetTextAlarm reads an alarm status from a text register

indicated by `index'. To learn more about available alarm
statuses, refer to Understanding Alarm Statuses.
FE_OK is returned if the operation succeeds.
FE_IO_ADDR is returned if the register index is out of range.

Understanding Alarm Statuses

iFIX can process alarm status information from I/O drivers. This information complements the alarms
generated by iFIX database blocks. When an alarm is returned from a driver, iFIX compares the driver
alarm against the block alarm. The alarm with the higher severity is used as the block alarm and the
other alarm is ignored.
iFIX defines the following alarms with the following severity:

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Severity
16 (highest)

Alarm Status

Description

IA_COMM

Communication error ("BAD" value).

16
(highest)

IA_IOF

General I/O failure.

16
(highest)

IA_OCD

Open circuit.

16
(highest)

IA_URNG

Under range (clamped at 0).

16
(highest)

IA_ORNG

Over range (clamped at MAX).

16
(highest)

IA_RANG

Out of range (value unknown).

16
(highest)

IA_DEVICE

Device failure.

16
(highest)

IA_STATION

Station failure.

16
(highest)

IA_ACCESS

Access denied (privilege).

16
(highest)

IA_NODATA

On poll, but no data yet.

16
(highest)

IA_NOXDATA

Exception item, but no data yet.

16
(highest)

IA_MANL

Special code for MANL/MAINT (for inputs).

IA_FLT

Floating point error.

IA_ERROR

General block error.

IA_ANY

Any block alarm.

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Severity
8

Alarm Status
IA_NEW

Description
New block alarm.

IA_HIHI

The block is in the HIHI alarm state (High High).

IA_LOLO

The block is in the LOLO alarm state (Low Low).

IA_COS

Change of state.

IA_CFN

IA_TIME

Time-out alarm.

IA_SQL_LOG

Not connected to database.

Change From Normal (Digital block only).

IA_HI

The block is in the HI alarm state (High).

IA_LO

The block is in the LO alarm state (Low).

IA_RATE

Value exceeds rate of change setting since last scan

period.

IA_SQL_CMD

SQL command not found or invalid.

IA_DEV

Deviation from the set point.

IA_DATA_MATCH

SQL command does not match data list.

IA_FIELD_READ

Error reading tag values.

IA_FIELD_WRITE

Error writing tag values.

IA_DSAB

Alarms disabled.

0 (lowest)

IA_OK

The block is in normal state.

Using the preceding table, you can see that if a driver returns a HIHI alarm to a block that is in HI
alarm, iFIX changes the alarm state to HIHI because the driver alarm is more severe. However, if the
alarms are of equal severity, iFIX does not change the alarm state of the block. For example, if the
block is in HI alarm and the driver returns a LO alarm, the block's alarm state does not change because

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both alarms have equal severity. Once an operator acknowledges the HI alarm, iFIX changes the
block's alarm state.
NOTE: If you set a communication error to the S register with the SetCommError function, then all
SM2 registers show a COMM alarm status. When examining the alarm status of text, only the status of
the first character (byte) is read. You can control the alarm status functions of the SM2 driver using its
C API only. Refer more information about this API, refer to the Using the SM2 C API section.

Connecting to an OPC Server

In addition to I/O drivers, the WorkSpace can send and receive data with an OLE for Process Control
(OPC) server. You can configure any database block to receive or send OPC data by completing the
block's I/O driver fields. To do this, select OPC from the Driver field, and then click the I/O Address
field's Browse button to specify an OPC address.
The OPC address has the following syntax:
ServerName;GroupName;ItemID;AccessPath

where ServerName is the name of your OPC server, GroupName is the name of the OPC group you
want to access, and ItemID is the name of the OPC item you want to read or write. Including the
AccessPath is optional and instructs the server how to access its data. For more information about
connecting to your OPC server, refer to your OPC PowerTool documentation.

Understanding Signal Conditioning

Very often raw values from your process hardware are not meaningful to operators. This is particularly
true when the hardware reports values in a numeric format, such as an unsigned integer, to indicate
how full a tank is. In this situation, what is needed is a way to map the range of values you receive into
a different range of values. Many I/O drivers provide this ability by applying signal conditioning.
Signal conditioning converts the data received from the process hardware into a format that is easily
recognizable by operators. You can apply signal conditioning by selecting the type you want to use
from a block's Signal Conditioning field.
Example: Understanding Signal Conditioning
Suppose you have a 700-gallon water tank and you want to display how much water is in the tank. You
can display the tank's water level as:

Unscaled integer received from your process hardware

Gallons

Percent filled

For this example, assume the I/O driver sends an unsigned integer to the process database (that is, 0 to
65535). The following table lists sample high and low EGU limits you could assign to the input block.
These settings scale the incoming values to display the tank's water level in percent filled and in
gallons.

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Example Block EGU Limits

Operator Display:

Limit Settings:

Unsigned Integer

0 to 65535

Percent

0 to 100

Gallons

0 to 700

The following figure shows the values that are displayed when the tank is full, half full, and empty.

Scaling Values

Understanding EGU Limits

EGU limits have a precision and range. The precision is the number of digits after the decimal point.
The range is the span of values. For example, the default range for blocks is 0 to 100.
Changing the EGU Limit Precision
You can change the EGU limits' precision by editing the High Limit and Low Limit fields. When you
change the precision, Database Manager modifies all references to the current block throughout the
database. For example, if you create an Analog Input block with EGU limits of 0.0 to 100.0 and then
change the precision to 0.00 to 100.00, Database Manager searches the database for all references to
this block and makes the appropriate changes. In this case, a Program block that contains the following
step:
SETOUT AI1 50.0

is adjusted to read:
SETOUT AI1 50.00

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Changing the EGU Limit Range

To change the EGU limits' range, you must change all references to this block manually. For example,
if you create an Analog Input block with limits of 0.0 to 100.0 and then change the range to 0.0 to
700.0, all references to this block's EGU limits are unaffected until you edit them. In this case, assume
you have a Program block that outputs a value equal to half of this block's original range, as shown
below:
SETOUT AI1 50.0

You must modify this Program block's SETOUT statement to reflect the new range, as shown below:
SETOUT AI1 350.0

EGU Limit Formats

Database Manager accommodates the EGU limit formats listed in the table Available EGU Limits.
Each format is accurate to six digits. Because of compiler limitations, round-off errors may occur in
the seventh digit. The following figure shows sample values and their accuracy.

Available EGU Limits

Format:

Accepts Limits From:

Standard
Integer

-32768 to 32767 (signed int)

0 to 65535
(unsigned int)
0 to 999
(3BCD)
0 to 4095
(12 Binary)

Expanded
Decimal
Notation

-9999999 to 9999999
Using this format, you can specify up to six places after the decimal point. Make
sure you enter the same number of decimal places in fields that require both high
and low limits. Note that this range would be -1E7 to +1E7 in scientific notation.

Scientific
Notation

3.4E-38 to 3.4E+38
Use this format to display large or small numbers. Again, only the first seven
digits are accurate. If you prefer, you can also use scientific notation for numbers
that iFIX can display in decimal notation. Using decimal notation with scientific
notation, you can specify up to six places after the decimal point.

NOTE: Refer to your I/O driver manual for additional integer ranges supported by your equipment.

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Working With the Process Database

As you develop your process databases, you need to complete many basic operations including:

Creating a new database

Opening and closing an existing database

Adding blocks to the current database

Copying, modifying, duplicating, displaying, and deleting database blocks

Moving blocks from one database to another

Saving the current database

This chapter describes how to complete these tasks.

Creating a New Database

One of your first tasks when developing a process database is to create a new database. Creating a new
database loads the empty database, EMPTY.PDB, into memory and removes any existing database that
may be loaded. If the existing database has unsaved changes, Database Manager prompts you to save
them before the new database loads.

Opening and Closing a Database

Before Database Manager can open and display a database, the program establishes a connection to a
SCADA server (either local or remote) on the network. It accomplishes this by prompting you to select
the SCADA server to which you want to connect. Once you select the server, Database Manager
establishes the connection and opens the server's current database.
You can establish a connection with a different server by opening a different database. Once you select
the new server you want to connect to, Database Manager disconnects from the existing server and
opens the selected server's current database.
NOTE: From the Database Manager, you can open databases from SCADA nodes with iFIX 3.0 or
greater installed. You cannot add, modify, or delete blocks in databases from earlier versions of iFIX,
such as iFIX 2.5 or FIX32.
You can also disconnect from a SCADA server by closing the database. If the database has unsaved
changes, Database Manager prompts you to save them before breaking the connection.

Adding Blocks
After you open or create a new database, you can begin adding blocks to your database. Database
Manager lets you add blocks by:

Double-clicking a blank cell in the spreadsheet.

Right-clicking a cell in the spreadsheet and selecting Add block from the pop-up menu.

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Building a SCADA System

Clicking the Add button from Database Manager's toolbar (Classic view).

Clicking Add in the Blocks group on the Home tab (Ribbon view).

Entering the name of a nonexistent block in the Next field of a block dialog box and clicking
the arrow button. Refer to the VBA Naming Conventions section of the Writing Scripts
manual for information on appropriate names.

Using the Generate Wizard.

When any of the first four methods are used, you can select the type of block you want to add. Once
you do this, a block configuration dialog box appears. By completing the dialog box and clicking OK,
you can add the block to the database. For more information on completing a block configuration
dialog box, refer to the iFIX Database Reference help.
NOTE: Whenever you add or delete a block in the database, we recommend you resolve your pictures.
For more information about resolving pictures, refer to the Creating Pictures manual.

Adding Multiple Blocks

The Generate Wizard lets you add many similar blocks to the database quickly, saving development
time. You simply select the type of block you want to create and the block names you want to use.
For the block type, you can select an existing or a new block. This selection determines the specific
values assigned to each block created. For example, when you select a new block, the Wizard creates
blocks with default values. However, when you select an existing block, the Wizard creates blocks
with values of the selected block. This option lets you create many similar blocks quickly without
having to reconfigure them later.
When specifying the block names, you must enter a prefix, suffix, starting number, ending number,
and increment value. The Generate Wizard uses this information to systematically assign names to the
blocks it creates. For example, the following values create blocks with the names F1T1 through F20T1.
Prefix

Starting number

Ending number

Increment

Suffix

20

T1

The Generate Wizard cannot create a block with a name that already exists. If the information you
specify results in an existing block name, the Wizard skips that block and continues on to the next one.
Using the Generate Wizard, you also have the option of customizing up to 5 fields. Customizing these
fields lets you fine tune the block's configuration. For example, if you need to create 50 Digital Input
blocks, each one will have a different I/O address. You can use the Generate Wizard to assign these
addresses if they occur in a sequential order.
You can customize a field by selecting it and entering a prefix, suffix, starting number, ending number,
and increment value. The Wizard handles this information identically to the block name values you
entered. If the resulting sequence of field values ends before the Wizard creates all the new blocks, the
sequence repeats from the beginning. For example, suppose you want to create 10 Analog Input
blocks, AI1 through AI10 and you customize the I/O address of each block with the following
information:

68

Prefix

Starting number

Ending number

Increment

Suffix

10

50

10

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Building a SCADA System

The blocks receive the following addresses:

Block

Address

AI1

N10:7

AI2

N20:7

AI3

N30:7

AI4

N40:7

AI5

N50:7

AI6

N10:7

AI7

N20:7

AI8

N30:7

AI9

N40:7

AI10

N50:7

You also have the option of enabling the Use Custom Format check box. When you enable this check
box, the Wizard lets you enter multiple patterns for the five fields you have selected. A pattern acts as
a programming statement for generating a range of numeric or string values. The following table lists
the syntax for each type of pattern.
Pattern Types
Type

Syntax

Example

Numeric

<start:end:increment>

<1:10:1> generates a range of

numbers from 1 to 10.

where start is the initial value of the

pattern,
end is the ending value, and

<1:20:3> generates the numbers

1,4,7,10,13,16, and 19.

increment is the amount to add to the

current pattern value.
Alphanumeric
List

<"string1", "string2",... "string">

<"A", "B", "C", "D">

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Pattern Types
Type

Syntax

Example

where string1 is the first string,

<"Area A", "Area B", "Area C">

string2 is the second string, and

<"Pump 1", "Pump 2", "Pump 3">

string is the last string.

Each string must be enclosed in
quotation marks.
Literals

Constants

string

Alarms

where string is up to 40 alphanumeric

characters.

Elapsed Time

"string"

"Curr Value > 100"

where string is up to 40 alphanumeric

characters, including the quotation
marks.

"I/O Addr < 500"

Analog Input

"PLC:N7:"<766:780:1>"/15"

Notice that the difference between literals and constants is minor. Both are strings and can be up 40
characters. However, quotation marks (" ") are required for constants when the string contains any
mark of punctuation or non-alphanumeric symbol such as an angle bracket or a colon. If the string
contains only numbers or letters, the quotation marks are optional.
Also notice that negative and floating point numbers are not supported within patterns. You can
generate these types of numbers by enclosing a minus sign or a decimal point in quotation marks
outside of the pattern. Negative increments are not supported. Consider the following examples:
The pattern...

Yields the result...

"-"<1:10:1>

-1 -2 -3 -4 -5 -6 -7 -8 -9 -10

<1:5:1>"."<"5">

1.5 2.5 3.5 4.5 5.5

By combining different pattern types, you can generate a wide range of block field entries. For
example, if you want to customize the Description field for a group of blocks, you could enter a pattern
such as Alarm Status from Area <"A", "B", "C">. Notice that the text outside the pattern does not
require quotation marks.

Duplicating Blocks
Another way you can add similar blocks to the database is by duplicating them. Like the Generate
Wizard, you can duplicate multiple blocks. However, you cannot customize specific block fields; you
can only specify a new name for the duplicated blocks. As a result, the new blocks are identical to the

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Building a SCADA System

original ones.
For example, suppose you have an Analog Input block monitoring the speed of a pump and want to
monitor five other pumps in a similar way. By duplicating the block, you can reproduce it and create
the additional blocks you need.

Copying and Pasting Blocks

Database Manager lets you share block information among your process databases and third-party
applications by copying and pasting them to the clipboard. Copying and pasting blocks between two
databases is a quick way to create new ones. This works best when the database you want to create
contains blocks similar to existing blocks in other databases. By copying existing blocks, you save
time because you only need to change the information that differs between the original block and the
new copy.
Copying and pasting between Database Manager and a third-party application lets you quickly modify
a block from your text editor or spreadsheet. You can also create new blocks with your third-party
application and paste them into Database Manager. This feature can be helpful when you do not have
access to iFIX and you want to create new blocks for later inclusion into the process database.
When you copy blocks to the clipboard, Database Manager converts and saves them in comma
separated value (CSV) format. Once saved on the clipboard, you can paste the blocks into any
application that supports CSV files.
Pasting blocks into Excel requires you to configure the program so that it converts and displays the
data correctly. You also need to configure Excel when you drag and drop data from Database Manager
or import a database saved in CSV format.
To configure Excel:
1.

Paste your blocks into an Excel spreadsheet.

2.

On the Data menu, click Text to Columns.

3.

Select Delimited.

4.

Click Next.

5.

Select the Comma check box.

6.

Click Finish.

Pasting CSV-based blocks into Database Manager converts and adds them to the process database in
memory. If the names of these blocks are already in use, Database Manager prompts you to replace the
existing blocks with the ones you are pasting. If you do not replace them, Database Manager generates
an error for each duplicate block. You can avoid creating these errors by loading a database that does
not contain the blocks you are pasting or by modifying the names of the blocks prior to pasting them
into Database Manager.
Database Manager also displays errors if you attempt to paste a block from Excel that is not in the
correct format. The easiest way to ensure the block is in the correct format is to export a block of that
type from the process database or paste a block into Excel, modify it, and paste the modified block
back into Database Manager.

Moving Blocks
In addition to sharing blocks by copying and pasting them, you can cut and paste them. Cutting blocks

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from the database is similar to copying them; the main difference is that cut blocks are physically
moved and placed on the clipboard, allowing you to move blocks to other databases.
Prior to removing blocks from their chains, Database Manager takes each chain off scan. Make sure
you place the chain on scan when you finish editing it. iFIX provides several ways to do this. For more
information about placing a block or chain on scan, refer to the section Placing Blocks On and Off
Scan.
If you cut a block from the middle of the chain, Database Manager attempts to connect the two
portions of the chain, as the following figure shows.

Removing a Block from a Chain

Modifying Blocks
You can modify any database block displayed in the spreadsheet. Typically, you need to modify a
block:

After you copy it into the database.

If you discover an incorrect field value.

Whenever your database needs change.

NOTE: While you can modify Analog Register and Digital Register blocks, we do not recommend that
you modify the current value of these blocks using Database Manager. To learn more about using
Analog Register and Digital Register blocks, refer to the section Working with Analog and Digital
Blocks.

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Displaying Block Information

Before you modify a block, you can determine the exact fields to change by displaying the block's
configuration dialog box. Unlike modifying a block, displaying a block's dialog box leaves the block
and its chain on scan.

Deleting Blocks
Whenever you find that specific blocks are no longer needed, you can delete them from the database.
Database Manager lets you delete blocks by selecting:

The blocks you want to remove and cutting them without subsequently pasting them

The Delete button from Database Manager's toolbar (Classic view)

The Delete button from the Blocks group on the Home tab (Ribbon View).

The difference between these methods is the Delete button in Classic View or Delete in Ribbon view
removes the selected blocks completely and does not let you retrieve them if you change your mind.
By cutting blocks, you instruct Database Manager to save a copy on the clipboard allowing you to
paste them back into the database until the next copy or cut occurs.
Regardless of the method you choose to remove the blocks, Database Manager displays a message box
with the following text:
Following tag(s) selected for deletion from database

Click Cancel to retain the blocks and continue using Database Manager. If you click Delete All,
Database Manager deletes the blocks and takes the chains containing them off scan. Make sure you
place the chain on scan when you finish editing it. iFIX provides several ways to do this. For more
information about placing a block or chain on scan, refer to the section Placing Blocks On and Off
Scan.
If the deleted block was in the middle of the chain, Database Manager attempts to connect the two
portions of the chain as the Removing a Block from a Chain figure shows.

Saving a Database
When you finish making changes to a database, you can save the database to disk. By saving the
database, you enable the SCADA server to reload the database in memory when you restart iFIX.
Make sure you have enough disk space available when saving your database to disk. If your SCADA
server does not have enough disk space, you may lose the changes you have just made. For example, if
you build a 3MB database, make sure you have 3MB of free disk space available.

Saving a Database from a Script or a Program Block

You can also save a database automatically using the RUNTASK command from a Program block or a
script. When you save a database using the Program block, use the following syntax:
RUNTASK DBBSAVE -Nnodename -Ddatabase

The -N command line parameter enables you to save a database on a remote SCADA server. The -D
command line parameter enables you to save a database to another PDB file name. Both command line
parameters are optional; if you do not use them, you save the current database on the local SCADA
server.

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When you save a database from a VBA script, use routines similar to the following:
Private Sub FixEvent1_OnTrue()
Dim save_pdb As String
Dim return_value As Double
Dim nodename As String
Dim database As String

nodename = "MIXER1"
database = "BACKUP"
save_pdb = System.ProjectPath + "\DBBSAVE" + " -N" + nodename + " -D" +
database
return_value = Shell (save_pdb, 0)
End Sub

End SubRefer to the Database Manager online help system for more information about the RUNTASK
from the Program block. For information about the Shell function, refer to the iFIX Automation
Interfaces Help file.

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Locating and Displaying Data

Using Database Manager, you can locate and display data in the spreadsheet. This chapter explains
how to accomplish these tasks. Refer to the following topics for detailed information:

Finding Data in a Spreadsheet

Replacing data

Using Go To

Updating and Pausing the Spreadsheet

Customizing the Spreadsheet

Saving and Loading Spreadsheet Layouts

Overriding the Default Layout

Finding Data in a Spreadsheet

As you develop and test your process database, you may find it necessary to locate specific spreadsheet
values. For example, you may want to locate and adjust the scan times of your primary blocks.
With Database Manager, you can search in any spreadsheet column for text by selecting the column
head of the column you want to search in. You must also enter a search string. The string is the text
you want to locate in the selected column. You can enter up to 29 alphanumeric characters for the
search string.
Once you enter the text you want to locate, Database Manager locates the first occurrence of the string
in the selected column. To locate subsequent occurrences, you can repeat this process.

Find Options
You can toggle the case sensitivity of a search using the Match Case option. When this option is
enabled, Database Manager searches for the exact text and case you enter. The search string is not case
sensitive when you disable the option. For example, selecting the Tag Name column and entering the
search string:
AI

is the same as entering any of the following search strings:

ai

Ai

aI

You can also find whole or partial words with the Match Whole Word Only option. Database Manager
treats the search string as a whole word when you enable the option. By disabling the option, you can
find the specified string inside other words. For example, if you search for the string "line" with the
Match Whole Word Only option disabled, Database Manager matches the following descriptions with
the search string:

Alarms for Line 1

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Alkaline Pump

Linear accelerator for proton chamber

Replacing Data
In addition to finding text, you can find and replace it. Finding and replacing text is similar to just
finding it. Both tasks require you to select the cell or column you want to search in and enter a search
string. However, when finding and replacing data, you can also enter a replacement string. This text is
the data with which you want to replace the search string.

Find Options
You can enter up to 29 alphanumeric characters for both the search and replacement strings. Both
strings also accept the Match Case and Match Whole Words Only options. However, while you can
toggle the case sensitivity of the search string with the Match Case option, the replacement string is
always case sensitive. This means that when replacing data, Database Manager inserts text exactly as
you enter it.
You also have the option to replace the text in the current selection (a cell or column) or the current
column. The Selection option button lets you replace text in the current selection. The Entire Column
option button lets you replace text in the entire column.

Using Go To
While working with your database, you may want to display the text in a specific row or column.
When the number of rows or columns is small, using the scroll bars to move through the spreadsheet is
a quick way to display the necessary information.
However, as the spreadsheet grows, you may find scrolling through it slow and time-consuming. To
speed up locating information, you can jump to any row or column. You can also jump to any block in
the spreadsheet when do not know the block's row number by entering its name instead.

Updating and Pausing the Spreadsheet

You can configure Database Manager to automatically update the spreadsheet by enabling the Auto
Refresh option. This option periodically refreshes the values in the spreadsheet. You can enter refresh
rates between 5 and 3600 seconds.
By automatically updating the spreadsheet, you can troubleshoot your database by monitoring specific
blocks. Should you identify an error, you can correct it and immediately see your change's effect.
You can temporarily disable the automatic refresh option by pausing the spreadsheet. Pausing updates
instructs the Database Manager to stop updating the screen. It does not affect SAC or the scan status of
the blocks in the database.
NOTE: Database Manager automatically pauses updating the screen when you add, modify, delete, or
generate blocks or when you print, reload, or import the database.
In addition to automatically refreshing the screen, you can manually update it whenever you want to
refresh the values in the spreadsheet. Manually updating the screen can be particularly helpful when
you automatically update the spreadsheet infrequently, and can be used in conjunction with the
automatic refresh option to update the screen more frequently than every 5 seconds.

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Customizing the Spreadsheet

Database Manager lets you customize the spreadsheet by:

Changing its colors.

Defining a non-scrolling column.

Defining a spreadsheet layout.

By completing these tasks, you can create a custom display for yourself and other database developers.

Coloring the Spreadsheet

Changing spreadsheet colors is like changing the colors of a window with the Display dialog box in the
Control Panel. First, you select the item whose color you want to change and then you select the color
for it.
You can change the color of the following spreadsheet properties:

Cell text

Spreadsheet grid

Row and column head background and text

Creating a Non-Scrolling Column

As its name suggests, a non-scrolling column is one that does not move when you scroll left or right, as
the following figure shows.

Defining a Non-Scrolling Column

Using this feature, you can display related information without resizing or rearranging the spreadsheet

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columns. For example, if you configure the Type column to stop scrolling, you can easily relate block
values, names, and types, allowing you to identify the block containing the values in each column.
When you create a non-scrolling column, all columns to the left of it no longer scroll until you unlock
them.

Defining a Spreadsheet Layout

You can define a spreadsheet layout by selecting the:

Columns you want to display.

Order these columns appear in the spreadsheet.

Column headings.

Columns' width.

The columns you can select correspond to common and block-specific fields. Columns corresponding
to common block fields appear with only the field name. For example, the following text appears for
the common field Current Value:
Curr Value

Columns corresponding to block-specific fields use the following naming convention:

type fieldname

The type is a two or three-character abbreviation for the block type and the fieldname is the name of
the block field. For example, suppose you see the following text:
AI Smooth

AI is the block abbreviation and identifies the field as an Analog Input specific field. The text Smooth
indicates the field name and corresponds to a block field (in this case the A_SMOTH field). The Block
Type Abbreviations table lists the abbreviations for each block.
NOTE: If you remove a column from the spreadsheet that Database Manager uses to sort data, the
column is also removed from the sort order.

Saving and Loading Spreadsheet Layouts

If you display database information in different ways, you may want to save your spreadsheet layouts
to a format file. Format files define the following information for each spreadsheet column:

The column heading.

The column width.

The block field to which the column corresponds.

By saving spreadsheet layouts, you eliminate the need to recreate them. Database Manager saves your
spreadsheet layout in format files residing in the FIX Local path by default. These files have the
extension .FMT.
Loading a format file is like creating a spreadsheet layout. It appears in the Properties dialog box,
allowing you to modify it as needed. In addition, when Database Manager opens the format file, the
program replaces the current set of spreadsheet columns with the ones listed in the format file. If a
block does not include a field that corresponds to one of the new columns, the text "----" appears in
that cell.

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Overriding the Default Layout

The first time you run Database Manager, it loads its preset default spreadsheet layout stored in the
format file, DEFAULT.FMT. The following table lists the preset default columns and the
corresponding fields that appear.
Database Manager Default Layout
Default Column

Corresponding Field

Tag Name

A_TAG

Type

A_NAME

Description

A_DESC

Scan Time

A_SCANT

I/O Dev

A_IODV

I/O Addr

A_IOAD

Curr Value

A_CV

If you prefer a different default arrangement of the spreadsheet columns, you can override the preset
default layout with your own by saving the current settings. You can also restore the original layout as
the default by loading the format file and selecting Save Settings from the Tools menu.

Troubleshooting Tag Display

If the Database Manager displays tag values, but the fields for an open block appear empty in the block
display, try re-registering the Fixdb32egu.ocx, Fixdb32IOAddress.ocx, and Fixdb32Tagname.ocx files.
This should resolve the issue with the tag display. Use the steps below.
To resolve tag display problems:
1.

Shut down the Proficy iFIX Database Manager.

2.

Shut down the Proficy iFIX WorkSpace.

3.

From the Start menu, click Run. The Run dialog box appears.

4.

In the Open field, enter:

REGSVR32 -U "C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX\Fixdb32egu.ocx"

5.

Click OK. A message should appear indicating that the "DllUnregisterserver" succeeded.

6.

Click OK.

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7.

Repeat steps 3-6 to properly unregister these files:

Fixdb32IOAddress.ocx

Fixdb32Tagname.ocx (making the appropriate substitution for the file name)

8.

From the Start menu, click Run. The Run dialog box appears.

9.

In the Open field, enter:

REGSVR32 "C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX\Fixdb32egu.ocx"

10. Click OK. A message should appear indicating that the "DllRegisterserver" succeeded.
11. Click OK.
12. Repeat steps 8-11 to properly register these files:

Fixdb32IOAddress.ocx

Fixdb32Tagname.ocx (making the appropriate substitution for the file name)

13. Restart the iFIX WorkSpace.

14. Start the Proficy iFIX Database Manager, open a tag, and confirm all of the proper tag
information appears.

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Querying and Sorting Data

One of the most powerful features that Database Manager provides is querying a database. A query is a
request to display specific information. For example, you might want to display all the Analog Input
blocks with a scan time of five seconds or less. Alternatively, you might want to display every block in
security area Packaging for a specific device driver. After you create a query, Database Manager
selects the blocks from the database that match the request and displays them, replacing any previously
displayed blocks.
The following topics provide more detailed information about querying and sorting a database.

Understanding Query Syntax

Editing a Query

Refining and Expanding a Query

Saving and Loading a Query

Overriding the Default Query

Understanding Sort Orders

Saving and Loading a Sort Order

Changing the Default Sort Order

Understanding Query Syntax

Before you can create a query, you must know the information you want to retrieve from the database.
For example, you might want to display all the Analog Input blocks with a current value greater than
50. Alternatively, you might want to display every block in alarm area Line5 for a specific I/O driver.
Once you know the information you want to display, you can construct the query using the following
syntax:
{column} operator "value"

or
"value" operator {column}

where column is a column heading you want to display, enclosed in curved brackets, operator is one of
the relational operators listed in the table Relational Operators, and value is a number or string
enclosed with quotation marks (" ").
Relational Operators
Operator

Meaning

Equal to

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Relational Operators
Operator

Meaning

<=

Less than or equal to

<

Less than

!=

Not equal to

>=

Greater than or equal to

>

Greater than

Case Sensitivity
Strings entered in a query are not case sensitive. For example, a query such as:
{Tag Name} = "AI*"

retrieves blocks with names that start with AI. It also retrieves blocks with names that start with:

Ai

ai

aI

When entering a number, the block's EGU range determines the maximum and minimum values you
can enter. The following table lists these limits. To learn more about the EGU range, refer to the
section Understanding EGU Limits.
Available EGU Limits
The format...

Accepts EGU Limits From...

Standard Integer

-32768 to 32767 (signed int)

0 to 65535
(unsigned int)
0 to 999
(3BCD)
0 to 4095
(12 Binary)

Expanded Decimal Notation

-9999999 to 9999999

Scientific Notation

+/-3.4E-38 to +/-3.4E+38

Each query you create is evaluated from left to right.

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Using Boolean Operators

You can combine two or more queries using one of the boolean operators in the following table. Using
these operators you could build a query such as:
{Scan time} = "3" AND {Security Area 1} = "Packaging"

to display all the blocks in security area Packaging with a scan time of 3 seconds.
Boolean Operators
The
operator...

Instructs Database Manager to...

Example

AND

Select the block when both query A and query B are true.

A AND B

OR

Select the block if either query A or query B is true.

A OR B

NOT

Invert query. If query A is true, its value becomes false.

NOT A

NOR

Select the block when both query A and query B are false.

A NOR B

XOR

Select the block if query A and query B are not both true or
both false.

A XOR B

NAND

Select the block when query A and query B are not both true.

A NAND
B

Using Wildcards in a Query

You can also include the following wildcards in queries containing the equal to (=) operator.
The wildcard...

Represents...

Asterisk (*)

One or more characters.

Question mark (?)

Any single character.

Examples: Query Wildcards

The query...

Retrieves...

{Type} = "*"

Every block in the database.

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The query...

Retrieves...

{Tag Name} ="A*"

Every block whose name that begins with an "A."

{Type} = "?I"

All Analog Input and Digital Input blocks.

Other operators, such as the greater than (>) or less than (<) operators, treat wildcards literally.
Examples: Using Relational Operators
The query...

Retrieves...

{Scan Time} >

"?M"

No blocks, because the question mark is treated literally and "1M" through
"9M" have a lesser ASCII value than "?M".

{Scan Time} =
"?M"

All blocks with a scan time from 1 minute to 9 minutes.

Grouping Queries
You can group queries together using parenthesis. For example, consider the following query:
{Tag name} = "A*" AND ({Type} = "AI" OR {Type} = "AO")

Database Manager evaluates this query from left to right. Expressions enclosed in parenthesis are
treated as a unit. Consequently, as Database Manager evaluates the above query, it retrieves every
block that begins with an "A." From this list of blocks, the program then displays all the Analog Input
or Analog Output blocks.
Be careful where you place parenthesis in a query. The following query yields a very different
spreadsheet compared to the query given above.
({Tag name} = "A*" AND {Type} = "AI") OR {Type} = "AO"

This query displays every Analog Input block that begins with an "A" and every Analog Output block
in the database.

Editing a Query
After you create a query, it remains the current query until you change it. Using this feature, you can
append a new query to the existing one and re-query the database. For example, suppose you create the
following query:
{Type} ="AI" AND {Alarm Areas} ="Boston"

This query displays all the Analog Input blocks in the Boston alarm area. By appending the query:
AND {AI LOLO Alarm}<= "10"

you can display only those Analog Input blocks in the alarm area which have a LOLO alarm value less
than or equal to ten.

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To locate blank cells in the database:

1.

In Classic view, on the View menu, click Properties.

-OrIn Ribbon view, on the View tab, in the Settings group, click Properties.

2.

Select the Query tab and enter the following query.

{TAG NAME} = "*" AND {column_name}=""

For example, to find blank cells in the Description column use the query:
{TAG NAME} = "*" AND {Description}=""

This query displays all the blocks in the database that have no text in their Description fields.

Refining and Expanding a Query

The number of blocks that Database Manager retrieves from a query depends on how broad your
request is. If the query is broad (for example, display all Analog Input blocks) the program retrieves
more blocks than if the query is narrow (for example, display all Analog Input blocks with a scan time
of five seconds and a name that begins with "Q"). You can adjust the number of blocks retrieved by
refining or expanding your query.
One way to refine a query is to start with a simple query and append other queries to it. For example,
the following query displays all the Analog Input blocks in the database.
{Type} = "AI"

Once Database Manager retrieves these blocks, you can refine the query by adding other queries to it.
For example, you could add the following query to display only the Analog Input blocks with a scan
time of two seconds:
AND {Scan Time} = "2"

Similarly, you could increase the number of blocks in the spreadsheet by displaying all the Analog
Input blocks and then, to the original query, add all Analog Output blocks in the database with the
following query:
OR {Type} = "AO"

Saving and Loading a Query

If you find yourself frequently entering and re-entering the same query, you may want to save it to a
file. By saving a query, you cut down on frequent retyping and eliminate the possibility of mistyping
the query. Database Manager saves your queries in separate files. These files reside in the FIX Local
path by default and have the extension .QRY.
Loading a query is like entering one. It appears in the Enter Query field, allowing you to refine or
expand the query as needed. In addition, when Database Manager opens the query file, the program
retrieves the blocks that match the specified criteria.

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Overriding the Default Query

By default, Database Manager loads the query file DEFAULT.QRY when you initially start the
program. This query retrieves every block from the database. If you routinely request certain
information from the database, you may want to override the current default query by saving the
current settings. You can also restore the original query, DEFAULT.QRY, as the default, by loading
the query file and selecting Save Settings from the Tools menu.

Understanding Sort Orders

Database Manager automatically sorts all the blocks in the spreadsheet whenever you query or open a
database. The blocks are sorted according to the current sort order. A sort order defines:

The columns to sort on.

The column to sort first, the column to sort second, and so on.

How to sort each column, either in ascending or descending order.

How Sort Orders Work

Database Manager sorts the spreadsheet, by:
1.

Identifying which columns to sort.

2.

Sorting the first column in ascending or descending order.

3.

Repeating the previous step for the remaining columns in the sort order.

When sorting by ascending or descending order, Database Manager sorts:

Special characters (such as marks of punctuation) by ASCII value.

Numbers by numeric value.

Letters in alphabetical order.

For example, suppose you want to sort the spreadsheet by the Type and Scan Time columns in
ascending order. Once you select these columns:

Database Manager sorts the spreadsheet by the Type column alphabetically (ascending order).

Next, the program sorts the Scan Time column in numeric order.

Saving and Loading a Sort Order

If you sort your database in different ways, you may want to save each sort order to a file. By saving
your sort orders, you eliminate the need to recreate it. Database Manager saves each sort order in a
separate file. These files reside in the FIX Local path by default and have the extension .SRT.
Loading a sort order is like entering one. It appears in the Properties dialog box, allowing you to
modify it as needed. In addition, when Database Manager opens the sort order file, the program resorts the spreadsheet.
Before loading a sort order, verify that the columns Database Manager sorts on appear in the
spreadsheet. If the columns do not appear, add them. For more information about adding columns to
the spreadsheet, refer to the chapter Locating and Displaying Data.

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NOTE: Because the Tag Name column only contains unique data, Database Manager never needs to
sort beyond this column. For this reason, when you save or load a sort order containing the Tag Name
column, Database Manager ignores any column that follows. Ignored columns are not saved or
loaded.

Changing the Default Sort Order

By default, Database Manager loads the sort order DEFAULT.SRT when you initially start the
program. This sort order arranges the blocks in the spreadsheet by block type and then by block name.
If you prefer a different sort order, you can override the default by saving the current settings. You can
also restore the original sort order, DEFAULT.SRT, as the default, by loading the sort order file and
selecting Save Settings from the Tools menu.

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Managing Databases
Database Manager lets you manage your process databases in many different ways. For example, you
can verify them to ensure they do not contain any errors. You can also reload, import, and export your
databases as needed. This chapter describes all these management tools.

Verifying Databases

Reloading Databases

Displaying a Database Summary

Exporting Databases

Importing Databases

Verifying Databases
You can ensure a process database contains no configuration errors by verifying it. Verifying a
database also ensures that iFIX can process each block and that the database functions as you intend.
While verifying a process database, Database Manager ensures that each block:

Is in only one chain.

Is linked to an appropriate block (for example, a Statistical Control block can be preceded
only by a Statistical Data block).

Is used in the correct context (for example, as a stand-alone, a primary, or a secondary block).

Does not reference non-existent blocks.

If Database Manager detects no errors, it displays a message box to inform you. However, if it
encounters errors, the Verify Database dialog box appears. This dialog box lists each error and the
block that contains it. The following table lists the possible verification errors and how to resolve them.
Resolving Verification Messages
When you see the
message...

It means...

To correct this configuration...

tagname a:tagname b
Tag is in more than
one chain

The block, tagname b, has

more than one upstream
block linked to it. Tagname a
identifies one of these
blocks.

Remove one or more links to

tagname b.

tagname:Tag is not in
any chain

You may have a secondary

block that is not in any chain
or is the first block in a
chain.

Remove the secondary block or add a

primary block to the start of the
chain.

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Resolving Verification Messages

When you see the
message...

It means...

To correct this configuration...

tagname: Block not

found for NEXT

The block, tagname, chains

to a block that does not exist.

Create a block with the name

specified in the Next field or enter
the name of a block that exists.

tagname:Chains to
itself

The block, tagname, contains

its own name in its Next
field.

Change the name in the Next field or

leave it blank. If you want to
repeatedly perform a task, use a
Program block instead.

tagname: is not
defined

The block, tagname, does not

exist and another block
references it.

Create the block or change the

reference to a block that exists.

fieldname No such
field in FDT

The field, fieldname, does

not exist and it is referenced
by a block in the database.

Change the reference to a field that

exists.

Exceeding MAX
chain size of 30

The database contains a

chain with more than 30
blocks.

Redesign this chain by breaking it

into two smaller chains or remove
any unnecessary blocks.

Correcting Errors
You can correct any error by double-clicking it to display the associated block configuration dialog
box.
To correct errors:
1.

Edit the block to correct the problem.

2.

Save the block.

3.

Re-verify the database.

Reloading Databases
Even though you can create multiple databases for a SCADA server, Database Manager can load and
display only one of them at a time. You can load any database residing on the current SCADA server
by selecting Reload from the Database menu. Reloading a database lets you:

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Restore the database to its saved configuration.

Load a database after completing and saving modifications.

Place on scan the chains configured to begin processing when SAC starts.

Using the SCU, you can select the default database to load on start-up. When you load another
database, it remains in memory until you restart iFIX. Refer to the Setting up the Environment manual
for more information about specifying the database to load on start-up.

Reloading a Database from a Visual Basic Script

If you want operators to reload the database from the iFIX WorkSpace, you can create a script to
reload the database using a routine similar to the following:
Private Sub FixEvent1_OnTrue()
Dim load_pdb As String
Dim return_value As Double
Dim nodename As String
Dim database As String

nodename = "MIXER1"
database = "BACKUP"
load_pdb = System.ProjectPath + "\DBBLOAD" + " -N" + nodename + " -D" +
database
return_value = Shell (load_pdb, 0)
End Sub

The -N command line parameter enables you to reload a database on a remote SCADA server. The -D
command line parameter enables you to reload a database other than the currently loaded one. Both
command line parameters are optional; if you do not use them, you reload the open database on the
local SCADA server.
For information about using the Shell function from a script, see the Visual Basic help system.
CAUTION: The DBBLOAD system task does not prompt you to save changes to the database. Be sure
you save your database before executing a script that reloads the database. Otherwise, you will lose
all your changes.

Displaying a Database Summary

Database Manager lets you display a summary of the current database. This summary lists the
database's:

Size in bytes.

Serial number.

Contents.

I/O count.

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Using this information can help you manage your databases. For example, knowing the database's
serial number can help you determine if someone modified your database since its last save. The serial
number is a unique code that Database Manager creates whenever you add or delete a block. By
writing down the serial number after you modify the database, you can subsequently compare the
current number to the previous one.
High-level documentation about the database can also help you manage your databases. You can
provide this level of information by displaying the database's contents. The contents lists by block type
the number of blocks used and allocated. A used block is one you have configured. An allocated block
is a placeholder in memory. To make efficient use of memory and improve performance, all SCADA
servers pre-allocate 10 blocks at a time when you initially create a block of a specific type, as the
following figure shows.

Allocating Memory for Database Blocks

As an option, you can restrict your process database to a specific number of I/O blocks (intended for
small applications that do not require many I/O points). In this environment, the I/O count lets you
determine how many I/O blocks are in use.

Exporting Databases
You can export the current process database to a comma separated value (CSV) or GDB text file.
Typically, you export a database when you want to:

Complete large editing tasks using a text editor or spreadsheet,

Change the alarm area database used by the process database; or

Import it into a relational database for subsequent analysis.

For example, you could export your process database in CSV format and import the data into
Microsoft Excel. By importing the file into Excel, you can:

Automatically number or enter block values.

Format values with Excel styles.

Calculate a value with a spreadsheet formula.

Automate the creation and modification of blocks by creating and running macros.

For more information using these features, refer to your Excel documentation.
Database Manager exports all the blocks displayed in the spreadsheet. As a result, you can query the
database to display only the blocks you want to export. For example, to export all the Analog Input
blocks in the database, use the query:
{TYPE} = "AI"

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For more information about querying the database, refer to the section Understanding Query Syntax.

Exporting a Database from the Command Line

You can export a database from the command line using the DBExporter.exe command. This
command is used independently of the Database Manager.
The DBExporter.exe command allows you to export all tags currently loaded on local or remote node
to a comma separated value (CSV) or GDB text file. When no command parameters are specified,
DBExporter.exe exports tags on local node to PDB name.csv to local PDB path. Typically, this path is:
C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX\PDB.
Syntax
DBExporter.exe [/NNodeName] [/OOutputFileName>] [/F] [/R]

Parameters
The following table lists the command line parameters available for the DBExporter.exe exporter tool.
Parameter

Description

/NNodeName

Optionally, specify the remote SCADA node name that you want to to
export the database from. Replace NodeName with the actual node name.

/OOutputFileName

Optionally, specify the output file name with full path or no path. If no path
is specified, output file is created in local PDB path. Typically, this path is:
C:\Program Files\GE Fanuc\Proficy iFIX\PDB. The file name portion
requires the file extension: .csv or .gdb.
Replace OutputFileName with the actual output file name. For example:
MyFile.csv.

/F

Optionally, allows you to run a fast export. The export runs as fast as
possible, maximizing CPU usage up to 100%.

/R

Optionally, allows you to skip header information (that includes the node
name, database name, file name, and date and time of the export), in the
output file.

Error Codes
The following table describes the error codes and descriptions DBExporter.exe exporter tool.
Code
0

Result
Successfully exported.

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Code

Result

General Failure. iFIX is not running; unable to load DatabaseManagerRes.dll, an so

on.

Invalid commands.

Invalid node.

Invalid file name.

Invalid file extension.

Unable to open Export.err file used for recording error details.

Empty database.

Invalid output file.

Exporting failure. The export file had an open or write error, EDA call failure, or
other similar type error during the export process.

Editing the Export File

Once you export the database, you can edit it with any text editor. As you edit the export file, use the
following guidelines:

Verify that each block name is 30 characters or less.

Ensure each block field is spelled correctly.

Confirm the block type matches one of the types listed in the Block Type Abbreviations table.

You can also enter comments into the export file by typing an exclamation point (!) as the first
character on a line.
CSV File Format
For more intricate editing of the export file, you need to understand the file format. For example, an
export file saved in CSV format lists each row of the spreadsheet as one row in the CSV file. Each
block's fields appear delimited by commas. The first two fields of each block are:
A_NAME, A_TAG

You only need to enter values for these two fields when creating new blocks. If no additional field
values are present, Database Manager creates the block using the default block values. However, by
adding these optional values to a block entry, you can complete specific dialog box fields when the
block is imported. For example, the following line creates an Analog Input block with a scan time of 1
minute:

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AI, AI2, , , , 1M

GDB File Format

The format of the GDB file is different. It uses the syntax:
label :: field_value ; fieldname

The first two lines of each block entry are required and contain the block type and block name.
Without these lines, Database Manager will not add the block to the database when you subsequently
import it.
Subsequent lines in a block entry appear for each field on the block's configuration dialog box.
Including these additional lines is optional. If no additional lines are present, Database Manager creates
the block using the default block values. However, by adding these optional lines to a block entry, you
can complete specific dialog box fields when the block is imported. For example, to set the scan time
of the block AI1 to 5 seconds, the export file should contain the following information:
Block Type:: AI ;A_NAME
Tag Name :: AI1 ;A_TAG

Scan Time :: 5 ; A_SCANT

Block Type Abbreviations

Block Type

Abbreviation

Analog Alarm

AA

Analog Input

AI

Analog Output

AO

Analog Register

AR

Boolean

BL

Calculation

CA

Dead Time

DT

Device Control

DC

Digital Alarm

DA

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Block Type Abbreviations

96

Block Type

Abbreviation

Digital Input

DI

Digital Output

DO

Digital Register

DR

Event Action

EV

Extended Trend

ETR

Fanout

FN

Histogram

HS

Lead Lag

LL

Multistate Digital Input

MDI

On-Off Control

BB

Pareto

PA

PID

PID

Program

PG

Ramp

RM

Ratio/Bias

RB

Signal Select

SS

SQL Data

SQD

SQL Trigger

SQT

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Block Type Abbreviations

Block Type

Abbreviation

Statistical Control

SC

Statistical Data

SD

Text

TX

Timer

TM

Totalizer

TT

Trend

TR

Importing Databases
Using Database Manager, you can import any database into memory. Importing a database merges it
with the database currently in memory.
NOTE: Before you import a database, stop any I/O drivers or OPC servers you may have running.
Typically, you import a database when you want to:

Change the scanning order of the blocks in the database.

Combine two databases.

To change the scanning order of a database's blocks:

1.

Export a database. For more information about exporting a database, refer to the section
Exporting Databases.

2.

Change the order in which the blocks are listed in the export file. For more information on a
database's scanning order, refer to the section Changing a Database's Scanning Order.

3.

In Classic view, on Database Manager's toolbar, click the New button.

-OrIn Ribbon view, click the Database Manager button, and then click New.

4.

Import the edited export file.

This process ensures that only the original database resides in memory when Database Manager
imports your database.

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To combine two process databases:

1.

Export each database.

2.

Examine each export file. Verify that each block in each database has a unique name. If two
blocks have the same name, change one. Remember to also change the text in the Next field
of the previous block so that the chain remains intact.

3.

Into an empty database, import one of the databases you want to merge.

4.

Import the other database.

Import errors encountered by Database Manager are stored in the file IMPORT.ERR. This file resides
in the Database path.

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Advanced Topics
After you put a database into production, you may find that SAC scans certain blocks in an order you
did not intend. This chapter explains how you can fine-tune your database and change the scanning
order.
This chapter also describes how to customize Database Manager's toolbar and Tools menu.
Customizing the toolbar lets you select only the toolbar buttons you require. Customizing the Tools
menu lets you add menu items that launch other applications from Database Manager. Refer to sections
Customizing the Toolbar and Customizing the Tools Menu for more information on these features.

Changing a Database's Scanning Order

You can control the precise order you want SAC to scan your blocks and chains by adjusting the
database's scanning order, called the order of solve. Typically, you only need to adjust the order of
solve when the value of one block depends on the value of another. For example, suppose you are
calculating a value from three Analog Input blocks as the following figure shows.

Sample Calculation Chain

Also assume that by default SAC scans AI1 first, AI2 second, and AI3 third. Because SAC scans AI1
first, it processes the entire chain, computing the value of the Calculation block, before it scans AI2
and AI3. If either of these values change during the current scan cycle, the Calculation does not receive
them until AI1 is processed again.
Changing the scanning order addresses this potential problem. By scanning AI1 last, you ensure SAC
has updated values for both AI2 and AI3 prior to computing the value of the Calculation block.
You can also phase the blocks so that SAC scans AI1 last. To learn more about phasing, refer to the
Phasing section.

Understanding a Database's Scanning Order

On each scan cycle:
1.

Regardless of their order in the database, SAC processes blocks that output a value to an I/O
device (using a Cold Start value). SAC does not examine these values for alarm conditions.

2.

SAC updates all primary blocks according to the scan time and phase. Blocks with the same
scan time and phase update in the following order.
a.

Analog Input blocks

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b.

Analog Output blocks

c.

Digital Input blocks

d.

Digital Output blocks

e.

Ramp blocks

f.

Multistate Digital Input blocks

g.

Statistical Data blocks

h.

Boolean blocks

i.

Device Control blocks

j.

Analog Alarm blocks

k.

Digital Alarm blocks

l.

Pareto blocks

m. Text blocks
n.

Program blocks

NOTE: Analog Register and Digital Register blocks do not require SAC processing. Instead,
iFIX processes them only when an operator opens a picture containing a link to either block
or when a script that references either block runs. When either event happens, iFIX processes
the blocks before the Ramp block.
3.

4.

When SAC scans a primary block, it:

a.

Processes that block's entire chain.

b.

Scans the next primary block.

SAC scans primary blocks of the same type, scan time, and phase in the order these blocks
occur in the database, as the following example shows.

Example: Understanding a Database's Scanning Order

Suppose you create the five identical Analog Input blocks, shown in the following figure. SAC scans
these blocks in the order shown.

Blocks Assigned to a Scan Sequence

Now, assume you delete the third Analog Input block because you no longer need it. This creates an
empty space in the database, as the following figure shows. SAC now scans the blocks as shown.

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Blocks Deleted from a Scan Sequence

You subsequently discover you need to add two new Analog Input blocks, AI6 and AI3. The first new
block, AI6, fills in the space left by deleting a block. The second new block, AI3, is added after AI5.
SAC now scans the blocks in the order shown by the following figure.

Blocks Added to a Scan Sequence

Changing the Order of Solve

You can change the order of solve by exporting the database and editing the export file. Database
Manager exports primary blocks in the order SAC scans all primary blocks. This results in all Analog
Input blocks appearing first in the export file, followed by all Analog Output blocks, and so on. Once
the primary block types are exported, Database Manager exports the secondary blocks.
For example, using the blocks in the Sample Calculation Chain figure, you can ensure SAC scans AI1
after AI2 and AI3 as follows:
1.

Export the database.

2.

Locate AI2's and AI3's entries in the export file.

3.

Move both entries to the start of the file.

4.

Save the export file and import it into an empty database.

For more information about completing these tasks, refer to the sections Exporting Databases and
Importing Databases.

Customizing the Toolbar

As an option, Database Manager lets you customize its toolbar by arranging and removing the toolbar
buttons. Customizing the toolbar lets you display the buttons to frequently-used functions. For
example, while developing a database you might display the buttons that let you add, modify, and
delete blocks. However, when the database is complete, you might want to remove these buttons from
the toolbar.
Once you remove a button, you can always add it back to the toolbar. Adding custom buttons is not
supported. By default, the toolbar comes pre-configured with all the available buttons added for you.
NOTE: This feature is not available in Ribbon view.

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Customizing the Tools Menu

Depending on your needs, you may want to start other applications after launching Database Manager.
For example, if you routinely drag blocks to an Excel spreadsheet for modification, you may want to
start Excel after Database Manager opens.
By customizing Database Manager's Tools menu, you can add menu items that launch any iFIX or
third-party application. You can also arrange and delete these menu items as needed.
Adding a menu item requires you to enter:

An application's path and name.

The text that appears in the Tools menu.

The arguments (command line parameters) you want to use when the application runs. As an
option, you can configure Database Manager to prompt you for arguments when the specified
application runs.

Once you specify this information, Database Manager creates the menu item and saves it as part of its
default configuration. You can subsequently select the menu item to launch the associated application.

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Index
A

control .......................................................... 29

adding

copying ........................................................ 10

blocks to the process database ...................... 67

copying and pasting ..................................... 71

multiple blocks to the process database ........ 68

Database Dynamos ...................................... 32

adding blocks .................................................... 35

deleting ........................................................ 73

alarm area database, setting up on each

server .............................................................. 9

described ........................................................ 4

alarms, described ................................................ 6

allocated blocks ................................................ 91
archiving, process data ....................................... 7
Auto Refresh option, database spreadsheet ...... 76
automatic mode
described....................................................... 44
function by block type .................................. 44
B

displaying information ................................. 73

duplicating ................................................... 70
exception-based processing ......................... 39
function .......................................................... 4
how processed by SAC .................................. 5
importing ..................................................... 10
in the database spreadsheet ............................ 9
matching process steps to block types ......... 18
modifying .................................................... 72

batch blocks ...................................................... 31

block fields
block name ................................................... 36
described....................................................... 36
formats .......................................................... 36
locating ......................................................... 37
naming convention ....................................... 36
block modes
described....................................................... 44
function by block type .................................. 44
block types, abbreviations ................................ 94
blocks
adding ........................................................... 67
adding multiple ............................................. 68
adding to Database Manager .......................... 4
allocating memory ........................................ 91
batch ............................................................. 31
configuring ..................................................... 4

moving ......................................................... 71
off scan ........................................................ 47
on scan ......................................................... 47
one shot processing ...................................... 41
optional ........................................................ 25
pasting into Excel ........................................ 71
pattern type syntax ....................................... 68
phasing......................................................... 42
planning your automation strategy .............. 24
primary ........................................................ 25
reaction to on/off scan changes.................... 47
saving........................................................... 73
scan order..................................................... 99
scan times .................................................... 37
scan times for large databases...................... 23
secondary ..................................................... 25
sort order in database spreadsheet ............... 86
SQL ............................................................. 31

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Statistical Process Control (SPC) ................. 30

block data format conversion....................... 10

summary ....................................................... 32

Editing an export file ................................... 94

time-based processing .................................. 38

exporting process database to ...................... 92

types and descriptions................................... 25

customizing

boolean operators in queries ............................. 83

Database Manager toolbars.........................101

building large databases ................................... 23

Database Manager Tools menu ..................102

database spreadsheet .................................... 77

chains
adjusting the design ...................................... 20

D
database

described......................................................... 5

changing the scanning order ........................ 99

designing ...................................................... 14

correcting errors ........................................... 89

drawing a flowchart ...................................... 20

designing...................................................... 13

how processed by SAC ................................... 5

displaying a summary .................................. 91

maximum size................................................. 5

editing an export file .................................... 94

scanning order .............................................. 99

exporting ...................................................... 92

understanding the design .............................. 23

importing ..................................................... 97

writing an automation algorithm .................. 17

order of solve ..............................................101

closing the process database ............................. 67

reloading ...................................................... 90

collecting process information.......................... 13

reloading from a Visual Batch script ........... 91

color, changing in a database spreadsheet ........ 77

scanning order ............................................. 99

columns

verifying ...................................................... 89

adding in a spreadsheet ................................. 78

Database Dynamo Blocks ................................ 34

creating a non-scrolling ................................ 77

Database Dynamos

modifying in a spreadsheet ........................... 78

function ........................................................ 32

removing from a spreadsheet ........................ 78

toolkit........................................................... 32

command line parameters (BTKCFG).............. 35

Database Manager

commands......................................................... 35

adding blocks ................................................. 4

configuration errors

adjusting the chain design ............................ 20

checking the database for ............................. 89

block types ................................................... 25

correcting ...................................................... 89

building large databases............................... 23

resolving ....................................................... 89

configuring blocks ......................................... 4

configuring blocks .............................................. 4

customizing a spreadsheet ........................... 77

control blocks ................................................... 29

customizing the Tools menu .......................102

copying and pasting blocks in the process

database .......................................................... 3

described ........................................................ 3

creating, process database ................................ 11

CSV

104

designing a chain ......................................... 14

designing an automation strategy ................ 17
displaying a database summary ................... 91

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drawing a flowchart for the chain ................. 20

searching ...................................................... 75

exchanging data ............................................ 10

updating ....................................................... 76

exiting ............................................................. 9

using Go To ................................................. 76

gathering process information ...................... 13

using in Database Manager ............................ 9

matching process steps to block types .......... 18

DBExporter.exe command .............................. 93

pausing a spreadsheet ................................... 76

deleting blocks from the process database ....... 73

queries .......................................................... 81

designing

replacing data in a spreadsheet ..................... 76

chains ........................................................... 14

right mouse menu ......................................... 10

process database .......................................... 13

saving databases from a script or Program

block ......................................................... 73

displaying
any row in a spreadsheet .............................. 76

saving large databases .................................. 24

saving spreadsheet layouts ........................... 78

block information from the process

database ................................................... 73

searching a spreadsheet ................................ 75

blocks in a database spreadsheet .................. 76

setting preferences ........................................ 11

columns in a database spreadsheet............... 76

sort orders ..................................................... 86

database summary........................................ 91

starting ............................................................ 9

rows in a database spreadsheet .................... 76

toolbar........................................................... 10

drivers .............................................................. 51

understanding chain designs ......................... 23

duplicating blocks in the process database ...... 70

updating a spreadsheet .................................. 76

using Go To in a spreadsheet ........................ 76

editing

working with analog and digital blocks ........ 24

writing an automation algorithm .................. 17
database spreadsheet

database spreadsheet .................................... 10

EGU limit
formats ......................................................... 64

coloring......................................................... 77

precision and range ...................................... 64

commands..................................................... 10

errors, correcting verification .......................... 89

creating a non-scrolling column ................... 77

example, Enviro company overview ................. 7

customizing .................................................. 77

Excel

defining the layout ........................................ 78

converting block data................................... 10

editing ........................................................... 10

pasting blocks into ....................................... 71

loading layouts ............................................. 78

exception-based processing

overriding the default layouts ....................... 79

Analog Alarm block considerations ............ 39

pausing ......................................................... 76

Boolean block considerations ...................... 39

properties ...................................................... 10

Calculation block considerations ................. 39

replacing data ............................................... 76

Dead Time block considerations.................. 39

restoring the default layouts ......................... 79

Digital Alarm block considerations ............. 39

saving layouts ............................................... 78

Event Action block considerations .............. 39

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Lead Lag considerations ............................... 39

iFIX, installing ................................................... 9

PID considerations........................................ 39

importing a process database ........................... 97

Program block considerations ...................... 39

importing blocks .............................................. 10

Signal Select block considerations ............... 39

Statistical Data block considerations ............ 39

layout, defining in a database spreadsheet ....... 78

understanding ............................................... 39

loadable blocks (see Database Dynamos) ........ 32

export file

loading

editing ........................................................... 94

queries.......................................................... 85

exporting process data to .............................. 92

spreadsheet layouts ...................................... 78

exporting a process database ............................ 92

locking columns in a spreadsheet .................... 77

field formats ..................................................... 36

manual mode

freezing columns in a spreadsheet .................... 77

described ...................................................... 44

function by block type ................................. 44

GDB

memory

editing an export file ..................................... 94

allocating for blocks .................................... 91

exporting process database to ....................... 92

building large databases............................... 23

Generate Wizard

saving databases from a script or Program

block ........................................................ 73

adding blocks ................................................ 67

saving large databases ................................. 24

adding multiple blocks ................................. 68

automatic block name assignment ................ 68
customizing block fields ............................... 68
entering patterns ........................................... 68
Go To, using in a spreadsheet........................... 76
H

modifying blocks in the process database........ 72

moving blocks to the process database ............ 71
N
non-scrolling column, creating in a
spreadsheet .................................................. 77
O

historical trends, function ................................... 6

I

objects, Database Dynamo............................... 32

off scan blocks ................................................. 47

I/O data
and the database.............................................. 3
how processed by SAC ................................... 5
I/O drivers
defining an OPC server ................................ 63
described....................................................... 48
OPC Client driver ......................................... 51
signal conditioning ....................................... 63
SIM driver .................................................... 51
SM2 driver.................................................... 55

106

on scan blocks.................................................. 47
one shot processing.......................................... 41
OPC Client driver ............................................ 51
OPC server....................................................... 63
opening the process database ........................... 67
optional blocks, list .......................................... 25
order of solve, changing .................................101
overphasing blocks .......................................... 44
overriding
default query ................................................ 86

Building a SCADA System

default spreadsheet layout ............................ 79

basic operations ........................................... 67

before you begin creating .............................. 9

pasting blocks into Excel .................................. 71

building large databases............................... 23

pattern types, syntax ......................................... 68

changing the scanning order ........................ 99

pausing a spreadsheet ....................................... 76

closing.......................................................... 67

PAUT mode

copying and pasting blocks .......................... 71

example ........................................................ 47

creating ........................................................ 11

function......................................................... 47

customizing a spreadsheet ........................... 77

understanding ............................................... 47

deleting blocks ............................................. 73

phasing

described ........................................................ 3

assigning ....................................................... 43

describing .................................................... 15

second and subsecond blocks ....................... 42

designing...................................................... 13

what it does ................................................... 42

designing a chain ......................................... 14

planning

designing an automation strategy ................ 17

block scan times ........................................... 23

displaying a summary .................................. 91

designing the process database ..................... 13

displaying block information ....................... 73

gathering process information ...................... 13

drawing a flowchart for the chain ................ 20

PMAN mode

duplicating blocks ........................................ 70

example ........................................................ 46

editing an export file .................................... 94

function......................................................... 46

example.......................................................... 7

precision, EGU limits ....................................... 64

exporting ...................................................... 92

preferences, Database Manager ........................ 11

functions ........................................................ 3

primary blocks

gathering process information ..................... 13

described....................................................... 25

importing ..................................................... 97

function......................................................... 27

matching process steps to block types ......... 18

scan times ..................................................... 37

modifying blocks ......................................... 72

standard ........................................................ 27

moving blocks ............................................. 71

summary ....................................................... 32

opening ........................................................ 67

process analyzing ............................................. 16

order of solve ..............................................101

process data

overriding the default spreadsheet layout .... 79

archiving ......................................................... 7

pausing a spreadsheet .................................. 76

trending........................................................... 6

reloading ...................................................... 90

process data ........................................................ 6

reloading from a Visual Batch script ........... 91

process database

replacing data in a spreadsheet .................... 76

adding blocks ................................................ 67

restoring the default spreadsheet layout....... 79

adding multiple blocks ................................. 68

sample application ....................................... 13

adjusting the chain design ............................ 20

saving blocks ............................................... 73

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saving databases from a script or Program

block ......................................................... 73
saving large databases .................................. 24
saving spreadsheet layouts ........................... 78

refreshing the screen ........................................ 76

relational database, functions............................. 7
relational database ............................................. 7
reloading

scanning order .............................................. 99

database from a Visual Basic script ............. 91

searching a spreadsheet ................................ 75

understanding chain designs ......................... 23
updating a spreadsheet .................................. 76
using ............................................................... 6

process database .......................................... 90

removing blocks .............................................. 35
replacing data in a database spreadsheet.......... 76
restoring

using Go to in a spreadsheet ......................... 76

default spreadsheet layout............................ 79

using the database spreadsheet ....................... 9

verifying ....................................................... 89
working with analog and digital blocks ........ 24
writing an automation algorithm .................. 17
processing large databases ................................ 23
Q

preset default query ..................................... 86

right mouse menu ............................................ 10
S
SAC
block phasing ............................................... 42
changing the database scanning order ......... 99

queries
appending ..................................................... 84
boolean operators ......................................... 83
case sensitivity .............................................. 81
described....................................................... 81
editing ........................................................... 84
expanding ..................................................... 85
grouping ....................................................... 84
loading .......................................................... 85
overriding the default ................................... 86
refining ......................................................... 85
relational operator examples ......................... 83
relational operators ....................................... 81

exception-based processing ......................... 39

function .......................................................... 5
one shot processing ...................................... 41
processing I/O data ........................................ 5
time-based processing.................................. 38
saving
blocks to the process database ..................... 73
databases from a script or Program block .... 73
large databases ............................................. 24
queries.......................................................... 85
spreadsheet layouts ...................................... 78
SCADA servers

restoring the preset default ........................... 86

establishing a connection from Database

Manager ................................................... 67

saving ........................................................... 85

loading process database from ..................... 90

syntax ........................................................... 81

monitoring and reporting functions ............... 6

wildcard examples ........................................ 83

trending and display capabilities ................... 6

wildcards ...................................................... 83

scan time

assigning ...................................................... 38

range, EGU limits ............................................. 64

block reaction to on/off scan changes .......... 47

refreshing the screen, database spreadsheet...... 76

described ...................................................... 37

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examples ....................................................... 38

described ...................................................... 86

exception-based ............................................ 39

loading ......................................................... 86

one shot ........................................................ 41

removing a column ...................................... 86

time-based .................................................... 38

saving........................................................... 86

scanning order

sorting

changing in the database ............................... 99

columns in database spreadsheet ................. 86

described....................................................... 99

disabling in database spreadsheet ................ 86

example ........................................................ 99

SQL blocks ...................................................... 31

Scheduler

standard blocks, summary ............................... 32

adjusting database values using ...................... 6

Statistical Process Control (SPC) blocks ......... 30

functions ......................................................... 6

syntax, database query ..................................... 81

SCU, configuring each server ............................. 9

searching a database spreadsheet ...................... 75

time .................................................................. 39

secondary blocks

time-based processing

described....................................................... 25

assigning a scan time ................................... 38

function......................................................... 28

examples ...................................................... 38

standard ........................................................ 28

understanding .............................................. 38

summary ....................................................... 32

toolbar

sharing blocks among process databases .......... 71

customizing Database Manager ..................101

signal conditioning ........................................... 63

Database Manager ....................................... 10

SIM driver

toolbars ............................................................ 35

analog values ................................................ 51

Toolkit, Database Dynamo .............................. 32

described....................................................... 51

Tools menu, customizing in Database

Manager ......................................................102

digital values................................................. 51
generating random values ............................. 53

trending
historical values ............................................. 6

signal generation registers ............................ 53

process data ................................................... 6

using ............................................................. 51
slot numbers ..................................................... 35
SM2 driver
accessing....................................................... 55
C API ............................................................ 56
generating bad data ....................................... 56
SM2 driver........................................................ 56
sort order
adding a column ........................................... 86
arranging columns ........................................ 86
changing the default ..................................... 87

U
unfreezing columns in a spreadsheet ............... 77
unlocking columns in a spreadsheet ................ 77
updating a spreadsheet ..................................... 76
used blocks ...................................................... 91
using the process database ................................. 6
V
VBA
adjusting database values using ..................... 6
functions ........................................................ 6

109

Building a SCADA System

reloading a database from a script ................ 91

verification messages

W
WorkSpace

list ................................................................. 89

reloading a database from ............................ 91

resolving ....................................................... 89

using to provide visual cues for alarms ......... 6

verifying a process database ............................. 89

writing an automation algorithm ..................... 17

110