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Afcon P-CIM Version 7.

70
Getting Started Guide

Afcon Software and Electroncis Ltd

Contents

About P-CIM Version 7.70 ...........................................................................................3 P-CIM Minimum Hardware & Software Requirements......................................... 4 P-CIM Supreme Report Requirements................................................................. 4 Installing P-CIM ....................................................................................................... 5 Installing P-CIM Supreme Report .......................................................................... 5 Uninstalling P-CIM ..................................................................................................7 The P-CIM Interface ................................................................................................ 7 P-CIM Group Modules ........................................................................................8 Project Setup ........................................................................................................11 Installing Communication Drivers .............................................................................12 Communication Setup ................................................................................................15 Checking P-CIM Communication .........................................................................18 Alarm Summary ...............................................................................................18 Driver Server ....................................................................................................19 DataScope ........................................................................................................19 Address Syntax .....................................................................................................19 The Database Editor ..................................................................................................21 Data Blocks ...........................................................................................................22 Types of Database Blocks ....................................................................................23 Data Block Parameters .......................................................................................23 Displaying Alarms .................................................................................................28 The Animation Editor ..................................................................................................29 The Toolbox ...........................................................................................................29 Selected Object Signs ..........................................................................................30 Properties.............................................................................................................. 35 Adding Properties to Graphical Objects .........................................................35 Trends ....................................................................................................................38

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Cells ....................................................................................................................... 41 Appendix 1 - Shortcuts, Tips & Recommendations 4 ................................................3 Shortcut Keys ..............................................................................................................43 Animation Editor ..............................................................................................43 Advanced Alarm Handler .................................................................................43 Operator Workstation ......................................................................................44 Alarm Handler ..................................................................................................44 Tips ..............................................................................................................................45 Syntax Manager ...............................................................................................45 Advanced Alarm Handler .................................................................................45 Animation Editor ..............................................................................................45 Animation Editor ..............................................................................................46 General .............................................................................................................46 Recommendations .....................................................................................................48 Appendix 2 - Glossary .................................................................................................49

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Copyright
The information in this document is subject to change without prior notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Afcon Software and Electronics Ltd. No part of this document may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from Afcon Software and Electronics Ltd.. The software described in this document is furnished under a license agreement or a non-disclosure agreement. The software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the agreement. It is against the law to copy this software on any other medium for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use.

Copyright 1987 Afcon Software and Electronics Ltd. All rights reserved.

P-CIM and P-CIM logos are registered trademarks of Afcon Software and Electronics Ltd.. Afcon and Afcon logos are registered trademarks of Afcon Software and Electronics Ltd. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

P-CIM Version 7.70 Getting Started User Guide

Afcon Software and Electroncis Ltd

About this Manual


This manual should provide you with the information required to build your first project in P-CIM. Before using P-CIM software, you should be familiar with Windows XP, Windows 2000 or Windows 2003 operating systems. You should also know how to operate an IBM or compatible PC. We suggest that as you go through the manual and learn about the various modules, you consult Appendix 1, Shortcuts, Tips and Recommendations.

License and Registration


The license and registration forms are part of P-CIM software. Please complete them and return them to us.

P-CIM I/O Counters


The number of I/O points and type of P-CIM application, either runtime or development, are defined in the P-CIM SEK.

Technical Support
For technical support contact: support@afcon-inc.com

Ordering New Software


To order new software contact marketing@afcon-inc.com

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About P-CIM Version 7.70


P-CIM software can be used to design a customized control and automation project that runs your workplace. In a P-CIM project, real-time data is continually collected and processed in the P-CIM database. Results of the process are immediately analyzed, and when necessary, events and alarms are sent to the responsible personnel. P-CIM runs on PCs, and is connected to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and field devices, or to third party databases. A P-CIM project is built in three steps: Connecting P-CIM to PLCs, P-CIM stations and other devices. Assigning database blocks with properties (for alarm generation and/or historical collection) in the Database Editor. Designing animated displays in the Animation Editor.

Below is an illustration of a P-CIM project.

Operator Workstations

P-CIM

P-CIM

P-CIM

Redundant Servers
P-CIM P-CIM

Web email Cellular

PLC Controllers

PLANT FLOOR

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P-CIM has two operational modes: Software Enable Key (SEK), normal mode. This enables use of P-CIM features and modules, at either runtime or runtime with development, according to the configurations on the SEK connected to the LPT port of the computer. Demo mode, which does not require a SEK where: Any animation display created in demo mode will operate in demo mode only. Communication with PLC/S is limited to a maximum of 20 I/Os. Monitoring alarms with the Advanced Alarm Handler is not available. Animated displays and the database can be created in demo mode using the internal (dummy) variables of P-CIM Database Server.

P-CIM Minimum Hardware & Software Requirements


Windows 2000, Windows XP Professional (SP2), Windows 2003 Server. Intel Pentium |||| 256MB RAM minimum 120MB free disk space for initial installation VGA display Parallel printer port or USB Network adapter and fixed IP address for network applications

P-CIM Supreme Report Requirements


55MB free disk space for minimum installation 100MB free disk space for full installtion (including Microsoft Desktop Engine) Internet Information Services (IIS) must be pre-installed for Web access Microsoft Message Queing Service (MSMQ) installed

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Installing P-CIM
P-CIM can be installed from the Afcon CD or, downloaded from the Afcon web site at the following address: www.afcon-inc.com.
Installing P-CIM from the Afcon CD

1. Insert the Afcon CD into the CD drive. Wait for it to open on your screen. 2. Click P-CIM and then click the Install P-CIM Packages option. 3. Click the latest P-CIM version, and then click P-CIM/Install P-CIM packages/P-CIMXXX. 4. The Install Shield runs and the Welcome dialog box opens. Click Next. If you have a previous version of P-CIM installed the Choice dialog box opens. In Choice dialog box select to either: 5 6 Add the version of P-CIM to your Windows system, in addition to the one that you already have. To replace the current P-CIM version and to upgrade it.

Click Next to continue. The Select Destination Directory dialog box opens. The default is Pcim32. Either browse and select a new directory for the program or, accept the directory that appears in the dialog box. Click Next to run the Setup. Setup is complete on notification.

Installing the P-CIM Supreme Report


1. The P-CIM Supreme Report installation wizard starts. Click Next to start the installation process.

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2. The wizard installs the Supreme Report into the P-CIM default directory. For exmaple: C:\PCIM32\SupremeR\ 2. At the end of the process, a message appears, indicating that the process is completed. Click Close to exit the installshield wizard.

Downloading P-CIM from the Internet

1. In your Internet Explorer open the Afcon site at the following URL: www.afcon-inc.com. 2. From the Products section, click P-CIM Packages and select P-CIM Version XXX. 3. Continue installation by following the instructions on the previous page from instruction 4.

After installing the software, connect the Software Enabled Key (SEK) to enable all the applications features.

Uninstalling P-CIM
1. Close the application by clicking the P-CIM Shutdown 2. Log off your computer. 3. Open P-CIM and double click on the 4. In this dialog box select: Automatic, to remove the P-CIM application from your computer without removing existing project files. Custom, to remove the P-CIM application and selected projects files.
Uninstall icon. The Uninstall dialog box opens.

icon.

5. Click Next to open the Perform Uninstall dialog box. 6. Click Finish to continue the Uninstall process. A message box opens. 7. Click Yes, to confirm that you want to remove the application or No, not to. The application is removed from your computer. 8. Click OK to end the Uninstall process.

The P-CIM Interface


Creating the P-CIM Group Shortcut

1. Select the following: Start/All Programs/AFCON P-CIM [X.XX]. 2. Click the icon and press the Ctrl button. P-CIM Group icon opens

3. Still pressing the Ctrl button, drag the icon on to your desktop. The on your desktop.

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4. Double click the P-CIM Group icon to open the P-CIM Group interface.

P-CIM Group Modules

Icon

Module Name Advanced Alarm Handler Alarm Handler

Description

This module is an alarms management tool. It enables the user to view, organize, monitor, acknowledge and analyze alarms. This module displays system and alarm messages. It has two windows, Current Alarm and Alarm Summary. This module can be used to create the graphic displays that the operator sees during runtime in the Operator Workstation. module. This module is a diagnostic tool that is used to quickly display and modify items and their values during runtime. This module opens the dialog box where P-CIM data blocks can be defined. Data blocks are mainly used for generating alarms and collecting history. This module imports/exports TSV files to/from the database file (database.dat). This module can be used to send text messages.

Animation Editor

Data Scope

Database Editor

Database Utility Email Sender

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Email Dispatcher

This module can be used to define the message format by which users automatically receive email containing information about alarms according to predefined definitions. This module displays history files in list format. The History Viewer can also convert history files into CSV format. These files can be opened and modified in Microsoft Excel. This module can be used as a viewer for INI files, and where P-CIM module parameters can be modified, and aliases can be created. This module acts as a follow up database for the plants equipment.

History Viewer

INI File Editor

Maintenance Manager Operator Workstation P-CIM Network Setup OPC Browser

This module displays the runtime graphic interface designed in the Animation Editor. This module is used to define and modify network stations.

The OPC Browser is used for bidirectional communications between a P-CIM project and an OPC server. It can also be used to check communications and to check an items value. This module is an OPC server that receives information about the workplace and then using OPC protocol, translates it and sends it to the OPC client that sends it to an external device. This module can be used to install P-CIM and its drivers and to define communication parameters. It can also be used to create P-CIM projects, and to then backup and restore them. This module shuts down P-CIM and its running processes.

OPC Gateway

P-CIM Setup

P-CIM Shutdown

P-CIM Startup

This module starts up P-CIM.

P-CIM Restart

This module restarts P-CIM.

Modules Security

This utility enables the operator to set specific security settings to each P-CIM module. Users management related actions are performed from this module

Password Editor

Smart Tag Editor

Use this utility to set up and configure Smart Tag usage

SER Editor

The SER (Sequence of Events Recorder) Editor is used to record events in P-CIM

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Progate Editor

Use this utility to configure and setup the various Progate settings.

Progate Run-Time

The Progate Run-Time module.

Audit Trail

This utility records changes that were made to various modules by PCIM users. This utility calculates the required hard-disk space for storing HST files. This tool acts as a video monitor window with minimal recording capabilities. For this module to run a video card must be installed on to the PC. This module can be used to create/modify a recipe template. A recipe is a group of values related to specific dynamic data addresses. This module defines the systems hot backup system used during network and/or computer failure. This module can be used to create report templates.

Disk Space File Predictor P-CIM Video

Recipe Editor

Redundancy Editor Report Editor

Schedule Editor

This module can be used to create actions that will be performed in the work place at a predefined time. This module can be used to view and create the syntax used in a PCIM project. This tool can be used to create hotkeys that can be used to perform specific actions in the work place. This tool is used to create a customized toolbar.

Syntax Manager

Task Switcher

Toolbar Editor

Supreme Report Studio

The new P-CIM reports program. Used for generating content-rich reports quickly and easily.

Supreme Report Runtime Engine

Used for generating and visualizing reports created by the Supreme Report program. Also used for publishing reports for the Supreme Report Web portal. This module is used to uninstall P-CIM.

Uninstall P-CIM

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Project Setup
A P-CIM project is managed in the Project Setup window, which can be accessed by clicking the P-CIM Setup icon in the P-CIM Group. This window displays the project tree, which contains all installed P-CIM versions and all P-CIM projects that have been created. Each project is represented in the tree by a folder with the projects name, under which there are subfolders that are displayed as branches containing data for different subfolders.

P-CIM software Sub tree for each P-CIM version installed on the operating system Projects for each P-CIM version Sub tree for each project containing a virtual folder for each subject, where each virtual folder when selected in the P-CIM tree, displays its description and real path on the right pane of this window

During installation of the P-CIM software the first project and its files are created and defined as the default project. This project will automatically open during application startup. The name of the P-CIM default project is PCIMPATH. When working in P-CIM only the default project can be active. To run another project, shutdown the P-CIM application, select a different project and define it as the default project.

By default, project files are saved under the projects folder and not under the sub folders. To use the subfolders, change their path location from the projects path to another directory.

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Installing Communication Drivers


Drivers are the communication protocols used in the application. After installing a driver it can be assigned to a virtual port in the P-CIM Communications Setup dialog box. There are two P-CIM driver types: P-CIM drivers OPC drivers, discussed in the OPC chapter.

Drivers can be installed either from your Afcon CD or downloaded from the Afcon Web site. The Install Driver option in the P-CIM Setup dialog box enables assigning an installed driver to a P-CIM project.
Installing drivers from the Afcon CD

Before installing a driver, shutdown P-CIM and other running programs and then restart your computer. A driver cannot be installed while P-CIM is running. 1. Insert the Afcon CD into the CD drive on your computer. Wait for it to open on your screen. 2. Select P-CIM and then select Communication Drivers to open the Communication Drivers dialog box.

3. Select the driver required. Click the Install Driver button to run setup. The Welcome dialog box opens.

Documentation for a driver can be viewed by selecting a driver and then clicking the Open Documentation button.

4. Click Next to display information about the driver. Click Next again. The Install driver into projects dialog box opens.

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5. Either select the relevant project or check the Select all checkbox to install this driver into all P-CIM projects. 6. Click Next to continue the setup process. A message opens informing you that the driver is installed. Restart your computer.
Downloading drivers from the Internet

1. Using your Internet browser open the AFCON site at the following URL: www.afcon-inc.com. 2. Click the Continue button to open the Afcon Home Page. 3. From the Downloads section select 32 bit drivers to open the drivers list. 4. In the Downloads lists Name field click the relevant drivers hyperlink to access the Download page. 5. In the Name field click the name of the file to download. The File Download dialog box opens.

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6. To save the driver into a folder as a zip file click the Save button to open the Save as dialog box, and then locate the relevant folder. After the folder is saved, open the project directory and extract the zipped files. 7. To open the driver folder and extract its zipped files into a project, click the Open button. 8. To install the driver into a project, in the P-CIM Setup dialog box click the Install Driver button, and follow the installation process using the information on page 12.

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Communication Setup
Communication settings for the driver are defined in the P-CIM Configurator dialog box, which is accessed through the Communication Setup dialog box. Each driver has different configuration settings, therefore the P-CIM Configurator dialog box is different for each driver. 1. To access this dialog box, in the P-CIM Setup dialog box click the P-CIM Communication Setup button.

2. Click the New button to open the Port Properties dialog box. These settings are saved in the DRVRPort.INI file.

This dialog box has the following fields:

Field Port name Driver name Bit numbering system

Description

This is a virtual port that has no functionality in the software. A virtual port number can be anything between 1 and 255 and can be used only once. This list holds the names of all the drivers installed in the current project. A driver can be used any number of times. This field defines the read bit access used. For example if Octal is used the digits 8, 9 are not available. Our recommendation is to leave the setting at its default of 10 decimal. Select 1 in this field to define that the bit numbering for this driver is 1-16. (When 0 is selected, it defines that the bit numbering for this driver is 015).

Lowest bit number

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Emulation mode

When checked, the driver runs in emulation mode. In emulation mode the driver does not communicate with field devices, but reads/writes internally. This mode is generally used during development.

3. Click the Properties button. Click Yes to save the newly defined driver connection. The P-CIM Configurator dialog box opens.

The P-CIM Modbus Configurator dialog box has the following fields:

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Field P-CIM Port Scheduling

Description

Displays the port selected in the P-CIM Communication Properties dialog box, Assigned Ports field.
Simulate I/O

This applies to when working in emulation mode only: When checked read items receive random values continuously.

Polling configurations

When clicked opens the Polling Configuration dialog box where blocks of driver address blocks can be defined with different scan parameters to that of the default scan parameters. Defines that writing a to a specific address will be immediately followed by reading to the same address. To use this command, consult Technical Support. Reads and checks the registers last value immediately before writing to a specific bit in the register. Instructs the driver to write to multiple PLC addresses for all stations. Defines the amount of time that the driver waits for a valid reply from the PLC. Connection is retried twice if a reply is not received or is garbled. The default value is 1 second, ranging from 0.5 to 50 seconds.

Read after write

Read before bit write Force multiple write for all stations Timeout

Default Scan Time

Default value is 0:0 seconds. Scan time indicates the frequency that the driver scans and obtains readings for a specific address from the PLC. Default scan time is a global parameter, defining scan time of addresses globally. Scan time ranges from 0.0-255.0 seconds, where a resolution of 0.1 seconds can be defined: If the default scan time is set to its minimum value of 0.0, the driver constantly scans addresses in the PLC If scan time is set to the maximum 255.0, it will scan once every 255 seconds.

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Max Retries

Defines the number of communication retries performed before communication failure is declared. A retry is an attempt to send a task to the PLC. Defines the minimum amount of time in minutes that the P-CIM driver waits before trying to reconnect to a PLC declared as failed. Default is 1 minute. Defines the PLC addressing format. For example 5 digits or 6 digits PLC. If most PLC types have 6 digits then choose 6 as your default type. Holds a dropdown list of the available network types. When clicked displays the Transport parameters for the selected network type. When clicked displays the Station parameters for the selected network type. Displays the secondary transport fields.

Min Reconnect

Default PLC type

Transport/station parameters

Network type Transport parameters Station parameters Use secondary transport

Checking P-CIM Communication


Communication between the driver and P-CIM can be checked in the Alarm Summary and Driver Server windows and in the DataScope.

Alarm Summary
Startup P-CIM, and open the Alarm Summary window and check that the following message is displayed.
HH:MM:SS XXXDriver, Port NN successfully loaded in emulation mode

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Driver Server
1. Startup P-CIM. 2. Click the
Driver Server icon to open the Drivers Server dialog box.

3. Check that the name of the driver is displayed in the Assigned Ports list.

DataScope
The DataScope is a diagnostic tool that is used to quickly display and modify items and their values during runtime. By default connected to the P-CIM server (DBSR).
Accessing the DataScope

1. In the P-CIM Tools icons group, click the

DataScope icon to open the DataScope.

2. In the Item field, write the address 1:1:40001 and then enter any values in the Value field. 3. Click on the OK button to write the value to the register. The OK column should be checked to indicate that communication exists.

Address Syntax
The following addressing syntax is used in a P-CIM project: Server:Topic:Item, where a : semi colon separates each component. Where: Server: DBSR Topic: PCIM Item: Any DBSR item, such as a PLC address or any DBSR internal variable ($, @, Dummy).

For example, if the PLC register = 40001, the syntax will be: 1:1:40001 Where:

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Server: DBSR, indicating the PC port Topic: PCIM, indicating the PLC number Item: 1:1:40001, PLC address

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The Database Editor


The P-CIM database is a set of items, addresses and data blocks that process and log data. The Database Editor is used to define database blocks. Data blocks are generally defined for generating alarms and history collection. Realtime and historical data can be retrieved, stored and processed in the database.
Accessing the Database Editor

In the P-CIM Development icons group, click the

Database Editor icon.

By default, a specified number of data blocks can be defined for each type of data block. This number can be modified in the Database Configuration dialog box. These modifications are only available after P-CIM shutdown and restart.

For optimized use of the database, the number of data blocks allocated should match the number used in the project.

Accessing the Database Configuration dialog box

This dialog box can be opened from the Database menu by selecting the Configure option.

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To modify data block quantity, first make your changes and then check the Include Old checkbox and click the Configure button.

Data Blocks
A data block is a database element used for processing data. It has the following functionalities: Provides an operator interface. Generates alarms. Collects history. Exchanges data with external devices and internal variables. Exchanges data between blocks. Converts raw data.

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Types of Database Blocks


There are nine types of data blocks:

Block Name Analog value Analog pointer Digital value Digital pointer Calculation

Description

This block is used for analog variables. Analog values are constantly scanned. Alarms can be generated and history collected. This block is used for analog variables, mainly for data conversion. An analog pointer type of block is scanned upon request. This block is used for digital variables. Digital values are constantly scanned. Alarms can be generated. This block is used for digital variables and is scanned only upon request. This block can perform calculations on analog and digital block values. These blocks are constantly scanned. Alarms can be generated and history collected. This block is used for boolean algebraic calculations, which are constantly scanned. Alarms can be generated. This block receives up to twenty 16 bit word values from registers in a PLC or other devices and converts them into a text string of up to 40 characters. This block enables definition of up to 80 digital alarms. Each alarm block reads 5 registers of 16 bits, each from up to five different PLCs, and relates to each bit as a separate alarm. A different alarm status can be defined for each different bit. Alarm status can be: On, Off, Change Of State,

Boolean String pointer Alarm

To avoid system overload, use blocks for alarm generation and historical recording only.

Data Block Parameters


There are parameters that can be defined for all data blocks regardless if the block is used for alarm or for history:

Field Name

Description

Holding the name of the data block.

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Address

Holds the data address of the following: Driver address. Internal dummy variable. System $Variable. Third party DDE server.

Description Target & target logic Utility table

Holds a description of the data block. Up to 80 characters and spaces can be used. This feature is for advanced P-CIM use only.

This field holds the following parameters:


Scan time Phase time

Indicating the frequency that the data block is scanned. The range is 1-255 seconds, where 1 second is the default. Defines the initial delay between first loading and processing the data block. The range is 1-255, where 1 second is the default. Defines the lowest range of values handled by this block. Defines the highest range of values handled by this block. The name of the data conversion into engineering units (driver specific list). The name of the engineering unit displayed in the alarm message of the associated block and in the Historical Trend. The name of the engineering units supports up to four characters.

Low scale High scale Conversion Engr units

Alarm table

This field defines alarm parameters. It has the following options:


Enable Advanced Email on alarm Email on RTN

When checked defines that the data block processes alarms. When checked defines that the alarm is handled in the Advanced Alarm Handler module. When checked defines that an email is sent when an alarm is issued. When checked defines that email is sent when the alarm returns to normal status.

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Field

Description Report to normal status Alarm wait Daily log Print Beep Screen Low alarm Low Low alarm High alarm High High alarm ROC alarm

Field

When checked defines that a message is sent to the Alarm Handler when normal status is resumed. Defines the amount of time before an alarm is actually generated. When checked defines that the alarm is written to the Daily Log file. When checked defines that the alarm is printed to the default printer. When checked defines that when an alarm is generated the operators computer beeps. When checked defines that the alarm is written to the Alarm Summary window. Defines that an alarm is triggered when a block value reaches or drops below this point. Defines that an alarm is triggered when a block value reaches or drops below this point. Defines that an alarm is triggered when a block value reaches or is higher than this point. Defines that an alarm is triggered when a block value reaches or is higher than this point. Defining the alarm rate of change, whereby an alarm is issued if the deviation between two readings is equal to or is greater than this number. Defines that a display pops up in the Operator Workstation when an alarm is generated. To enable this option in the Operator Workstation Special menu check the Last Alarm Display option.

Alarm display

Deadband

Defines the range after which a high/low level alarm returns to normal status: A high alarm condition returns to normal only after the blocks value has increased below the high alarm setpoint minus deadband. A low alarm condition return to normal only after the blocks value has risen above the low alarm setpoint plus the deadband.

Alarm zone

Defines that the alarm is attached to a zone in the Alarm Summary window. P-CIM has 10 zones and one system zone that send system messages.

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Smoothing

Filters incoming readings according to the result of the average of the number of samples defined. For example if 5 is defined, smoothing is performed every 5 samples.

Field Trend table

Description

This field defines History collection for analog value and calculation blocks. It has the following options:
HT factor

Historical Term Trend Factor. The number of readings (0-255) to be averaged for each point recorded in the Historical Trend file: 0 indicates that there are no readings. 255 indicate that this feature is available at runtime.

HT step

H. T. Step, defines the difference between the new average and the previous value saved in the History file, and causes the new average to be written in the file. The difference is written as a percentage of the engineering span of the block: Low/high limit of an Analog Value block in the Output table. Low alarm/High alarm of a Calculation block.

HST factor

New format of Historical Term Trend Factor. Enables faster data logging and setting the historical file's size. The number of readings (0-255) to be averaged for each point recorded in the Historical Trend file: 0 indicates that there are no readings. 255 indicates that this feature is available at runtime.

HST Period

The number of months to include in a single HST file. The default is set to 1. (one month)

Creating an analog value data block

1. In the P-CIM Development ocins group click the Editor.

Database Editor icon to open the Database

2. In the Analog Value tab, type the name of the data block and then click the Add button to open the Analog Value Modify dialog box.

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3. Complete this dialog box using the information in the table on page 22. 4. Click OK to return to the first dialog box.
Creating an alarm block

Each alarm block reads five addresses (registers) of 16 bits each. That is, up to 80 digital alarms from up to five different PLCs, relating to each bit as a separate alarm. A different alarm can be defined for each bit. 1. In the Alarm tab, enter a block name and click the Add button.

2. In the Address 1 field, click Number 1. The Alarm Bit dialog box opens.

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3. Complete this dialog box using the information in the table on page 21. 5. Save your settings and exit the dialog box. 6. To test the blocks definitions, open the DataScope and type the name of the block and its address. For example: Item = AV1 Address = 1:1:40001, and click the OK button. The Scan checkbox is checked when the datablocks definitions are OK. The Scan checkbox is not checked when the datablocks definitions are not OK.

Displaying Alarms
In P-CIM, alarms are viewed in the Alarm Handler module, which automatically opens during P-CIM Startup. The Alarm Handler displays system events and alarms chronologically and active alarm messages. There are two windows:
Alarm Summary, displaying all alarms and messages. The Alarm Summary window can be customized in the Window Style dialog box, which can be accessed from the Options menu, Window Style option, Window Style dialog box. Current Alarm, displaying current active alarms. This window is used to view and acknowledge active alarms.

By default, the Alarm Handler can handle up to 256 alarm and event messages in the Alarm Summary, and up to 100 messages in the Current Alarm window.

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The Animation Editor


A graphical display is built in four steps: Creating the graphical object. Adding properties to the display objects. Saving the display in the Animation Editor. Viewing the display in the Operator Workstation.

To access the Animation Editor, in the P-CIM Development icons group, double click the Animation Editor icon.

The Toolbox
The Toolbox is displayed when the Animation Editor opens. Its tools are used for creating the graphical display.

Icon

Description

Selection tool Toggles between the Toolbox and the Clipart Library Line tool Square tool

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Round edged square tool Circle tool Rotating tool Zoom out tool Restore zoom tool Zoom in tool Text tool Color fill tool Line style tool Displays the current color/line/text selection Line (L), Text (T), Background (B), and Fill (F) Color tool Color palette

Selected Object Signs


When working in the Animation Editor you will see the following selection squares:

This square indicates a selected object without properties This square indicates a selected object that has properties This square indicates multiple selected objects This square indicates that the object is a cell

Selecting an object

Click the

Selection tool in the toolbox and then click on an object. After the object is selected, it is

surrounded by

selection squares.

Selecting multiple objects

Using the

Selection tool either:

Draw around the objects. Hold the Shift key and then click each object.

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The selected objects are surrounded by


Saved objects

squares.

To save objects, from the File menu select either: Save, Save As, Save All. When a display is saved, two files are created:
DRW files holding graphics. UPD files holding updated data.

Rotating an object

1. Select an object. 2. From the toolbox, select the middle of the object. Rotating tool. The selection action square appears in the

3. Place your cursor in the object next to the selection square and slowly turn the object.

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Use the Edit menu options, right click menu, and/or Ctrl keys to copy/cut /paste objects.

A short cut to copying/pasting an object is to select the object, press the Shift button and to drag the object to another location where it is automatically pasted in.

Grouping and ungrouping graphical objects

When working with many objects it is convenient to group all objects into one. 1. Using the Selection tool, draw around the objects of the group. Or, Using the Selection tool, hold the Shift button and click on each object in the group. The selected objects are surrounded by the multiple selection squares. 2. Either right click and select the Groups option or, in the Change menu select Arrange, and then select the Group option. The objects are grouped into one object. 3. To ungroup the group: Select the group, in the Change menu select Arrange, and then select the Ungroup option.

An object looses all its properties when it is added to a group. Resizing objects

To resize an object proportionally, select the object and then drag one of its corners either in or out. To change the objects width, select an object and then drag one of its sides either in or out. To change the height of an object, select the object and then drag the top or bottom of the object up or down.

Moving objects

To move objects either: Click in the middle of the object, and then drag it to a new location in the Animation Editor interface. Click in the middle of an object and press the Shift key. Your mouse curser changes into a cross. Keep pressing the Shift key and then press the relevant your keyboard. direction arrows on

To move more than one object: Select the objects and then click in the middle (of the selected objects) and drag them to their new location. Setting object order

Use this option to select a graphical object and to then send it to the back or front of a display. 1. Select an object. 2. In the Change menu select the Order option and then either:

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Select Move to Front

so that the object is displayed in front of other objects.

Select Move to Back

so that the object is displayed behind other objects.

You can also select an object and then right click and select either Move to Back or Move to Front. Aligning objects

When working in a display you can align objects automatically. 1. Select the objects to be aligned. 2. Either right click and select the Align option or, in the Change menu select the Align option to open the Align Objects dialog box.

Working with a grid may help you. From the Options menu select Grid and then define grid parameters.

3. Click the alignment type. The selected graphical objects are displayed accordingly. 4. Click the Close button to exit this option.
Status Bar

The status bar is displayed when the Status option is checked in the Options menu. To view the status bar, check that the Task Bar does not cover it by clicking the reduce the size of the window.
Undo

Restore button to

To undo your last action, from the Edit menu select the Undo option, or right click and select Undo, or use the Ctrl + Z key.
Adding text to a display

1. Select the

Text tool from the toolbox. The Create Text dialog box opens.

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2. Type in the new text. 3. To modify the Font, click the Font button to open the Fonts dialog box.

4. Modify the text style and then click OK to save the new definitions. The next time you add text to a display, the new font parameters are displayed. 5. To change text color, select the text and in the Color Fill Commands button click the T button.

Select a color from the color palette. The color of the text is updated with the new color.
From P-CIM version 7.01, a font option can be disabled. This feature is useful when a group of text is selected and not all the font options are required. For example, the font type can be replaced without changing size. When selecting a clipart object some objects have larger selection squares indicating that they are cells.

Viewing/searching and replacing objects

From the Windows menu, select the List Animation option.

Copying a button from the clipart library

1. Click the toggle button to display the clipart library. 2. Click the Buttons library and select an indicator by clicking it.

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3. Press the left mouse button and drag the indicator to the working area. Release the mouse to drop the object. Close the clip art window using ALT+F4. 4. Save the display. 5. To view the display in the Operator Workstation, either select File/Preview, or use the CtrlR shortcut key.

Properties
When properties are added to an object they define how the object is displayed and acts during runtime. There are three types of properties: Indicator properties, defining how an object is displayed. Control properties, defining how an object acts during runtime. Special properties, defining how data and history about the object are displayed.

Adding Properties to Graphical Objects


After properties are added to an object, the object becomes dynamic and is displayed in the Operator Workstation. Graphical objects can be displayed during runtime as either: Static, representing devices on the plant floor. Dynamic, displaying/controlling information about devices during runtime.

The objects properties are linked to the communication address of the device. During runtime the object is displayed according to the assigned property and to the devices status. For example, an object can have properties that cause it to change color when a specified event occurs during runtime. An object that has properties assigned is known as an updated object. When defining properties the communication address is defined in DDE Format: Server|Topic|Item.
Accessing the Properties List dialog box

Select an object and open the Properties List dialog box by either: Double clicking on the object. Right clicking on the object and selecting Properties List. Using the Ctrl + P key.

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Selecting the object and then from the Update menu selecting Properties List.

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1. 2. 3.

Draw circle and select it. Open the Properties List dialog box. Assign any name in the Symbol ID field. Click the Fill Color button to open the Fill Color dialog box.

5. 6.

Fill in the Server (DBSR), Topic (PCIM) and Item(D:1). Click Digital Value to enter the color modification window.

7.

Click on each color and select the relevant color from the color palette.

8.

Click OK to exit the Properties list.

Creating an action button property for the rectangular Start button

1. 2. 3. 4.

Draw a rectangle and select it. Right click the rectangle and select Properties List to open the Properties dialog box. Assign any name to the Symbol ID field. Click on the Action button to open the Action Button Properties.

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5. 6.

In the Action Up field type the following: SET |!D:1 1. Where |! Indicates DBSR|PCIM!. Click OK to exit the Properties list.

Creating an action button property for the rectangular Stop button

Repeat instructions 1-4 in the Start button procedure. Write the following syntax in the Action up field: SET |!D:1 0 and click OK to exit the Properties list.

Trends
Creating a realtime Trend

1. Draw a rectangle and select it. 2. Right click on the rectangle and select Properties List. 3. Enter a Symbol ID and click the Trend button to open the Trend Properties dialog box.

4. Check the Realtime option and then click the Time (X) axis button to select both the Span time and

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the Sample time of the trend. (Default is 60 Sec. Span and 1Sec. Sample time). 5. Click on the Panel layout button to select the runtime analysis tools. 6. Click on the Pen 1 button to enter the link address.

7. Type in the address in the Item field. Make sure that the Server is DBSR and the Topic is PCIM. 8. Fill in the Scale Top and Scale Bottom fields, which stand for the minimum and maximum values in the Y axis. 9. Click the OK button when completed. The Time (X) axis setting is important since the result of the span time together with the sample time gives the amount of pixels required by the trend.

10. In the Span and Sample units, select the relevant units. The gridline settings consist of the number and color of major and minor divisions in the X-axis of the trend. 11. To change the color of the X-axis grid lines, select the color from the palette of color. If the selected time span is too large or the sample time is too small to fit into the rectangular object, a message is displayed. Select one of the following: Increase the width of the rectangular object. Check that there are enough pixels to fit the rectangular object by modifying the Time Span or the Sample time. For example, Time span of 20Min. with sample time of 1 Sec. requires 1200 pixels (20Min x 1Sec. = 1200 Sec.). If the rectangular object is 600 pixels wide (1 Pixel = 1 Sec.) reduce the amount of pixels to 600, by modifying the Time span to

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10, or the Sample time to 2Sec.


Creating a historical trend

1. Follow instructions 1-3 in the creating a realtime trend section. 2. Check the Historical trend option. 3. Click on the Time (X) axis button to select the time Span and the sample time of the trend. (Default is 60Sec.Span and 1Sec. Sample time). 4. Click on the Panel layout button to select the run time analysis tools. 5. Click on Pen 1 button to enter the link address as shown below:

6. In the Item field type in a database block name and check that the required block is set to collect historical recordings (Analog Value and Calculation blocks can collect historical recordings). Make sure that the Server is DBSR and the Topic is PCIM. 7. Fill in the Scale Top and Scale Bottom fields. 8. Click the OK button when completed. 9. To select the Timebase window, enter the Time (X) axis editor and click on the Time base button.

10. The Timebase editor opens. There are three options for the starting point of the historical trend:

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Date and time relative to present, that is, time counted from now. Shows Days, Hours and Minutes before present time. Date relative to present, and a fixed time, that is, Days counted from Today, shows any specified number of days, before present day, at a specific time. Fixed date and time, any specific date and time

Cells
A cell is a collection of objects and their properties that are grouped together into one entity. Cells can be built from objects drawn using the toolbox tools or, from clipart objects (that may have built in properties). After a cell is created it is considered as one object. The properties that were attached to each object remain and apply to the cell. A cell can be edited, copied, pasted and broken. A clipart cells objects can be broken into individual objects where each cell object retains its original properties. The List Cells dialog box lists all the cells in the display. This dialog box is opened from the Windows menu.

Basic Information for Designing Cells


Editing cells, right click on a cell and select the Edit Cell option. Breaking cells, right click on a cell and select the Break Cell option. Editing a cell without breaking it, press the Alt key and then select the cell object. Selecting cell properties, right click anywhere in the display and select List Cells to open the List Cells dialog box:

Select, displays the selected object. Modify, opens the Edit Cells dialog box.

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Details, displays a list of all the objects in a cell that can be selected or modified.

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Appendix 1 - Shortcuts, Tips & Recommendations


Shortcut Keys
Animation Editor

Key Ctrl + X Ctrl + C Ctrl + V Ctrl + Z Ctrl + P Ctrl + Ctrl + + Ctrl + S Ctrl + W Ctrl + F Ctrl + T Alt + F + T Alt + Ctrl + W

Description

Cuts graphical objects from a display. Copies graphical objects from a display. Pastes graphical objects into a display. Undoes the last graphical action. Opens the Properties List dialog box of a selected object. Moves a graphical object to the back (use keypad minus key). Moves a graphical object to the front (use keypad + plus key). Saves the current display. Jumps to the Operator Workstation. Opens the Fonts dialog box. Opens the Change Text dialog box. Reverts to the saved display. Switches to Operator Workstation preview mode (What You See Is What You Get).

Advanced Alarm Handler

Key Ctrl + L Ctrl + W Ctrl + C Ctrl + A

Description

Moves to the Alarm Log window. Moves to the Operator Workstation. Moves to the Current Alarm window. Moves to the Alarm Archive window.

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Operator Workstation

Key Alt + F + T Alt + F4

Description

Reverts to the saved display. Closes the Operator Workstation.

Alarm Handler

Key Ctrl + D Ctrl + O Ctrl + P Ctrl + A Ctrl + W Ctrl + X Ctrl + K Ctrl + M Ctrl + R Ctrl + E Ctrl + L Ctrl + G Ctrl + S

Description

Shows the Daily Log. Closes the Daily Log. Prints the Daily Log. Moves to the Alarm Summary window. Moves to the Operator Workstation. Exits the Alarm Summary. Acknowledges a selected alarm. Marks a selected alarm. Clears a selected alarm. Clears all alarms. Acknowledges all alarms. Acknowledges a message. Opens the Window Style dialog box.

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Tips
Syntax Manager

Tip Accessing the Syntax Manager Opening P-CIM Help for a specific field in the Syntax Manager

Description

Clicking the F2 key in any module opens the Syntax Manager. You can access P-CIM Help by selecting a field, pressing the Shift key, and then clicking the Syntax Manager dialog box Help button.

Advanced Alarm Handler


Tip Setting the Advanced Alarm Handler window size Hiding the Advanced Alarm Handler menu bar Description To set that this window will always open in a defined size. Change the windows size and press the Shift button on your keyboard. From the File menu select Exit, and then close this window. The following string can be added in the INI File Editor to define that the menu bar is not displayed in this module:

File: PfwAlarm.Ini Section: StateCurAlarmWindow Token: Menubar String: 0 To display the menu change the String to 1.

Animation Editor

Tip Copying/pasting an object shortcut Duplicating objects Moving objects

Description

Select the object, press the Shift button and drag the object to another location where it is automatically pasted in. Click an updated object and press the ctrl button. The Edit Symbol Id dialog box opens. Complete this dialog box and click OK. Click in the middle of an object and press the Shift key. Your mouse curser changes into a cross. Keep pressing the Shift key and then press the relevant direction arrows on your keyboard.

Resizing objects

Select an object and then place the cursor on the relevant surrounding square. Press the keypad + and/or keys to resize.

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MYDID token MYSID token

The MYDID (My Display ID) token ][ can be used instead of writing the name of the display in the Properties dialog box. The MYSID (My Symbol Id) token || is used to reference the object name that is defined in the Symbol Id field in the following property types: In a control - in the prompt. In an action button - in the action definition. In any other animation property - in the server, topic or item.

Selecting objects with updates using the space bar

This tip is useful when working in a display that has overlapping objects with updates. Position the cursor in the area of the objects and then press the space bar. An object is selected. Continue pressing the space bar until the required object is selected. Notes: Objects are selected in order of sequence. The space bar is used instead of the mouse.

Animation Editor

Tip Option Mode - moving a display window

Description

This mode is used after displays have been created. It enables you to move displays and to piece them together into a bigger display. Uncheck the Object Mode option in the Windows menu. The curser changes into two thick lines. Select a display, press the Shift button and then press the relevant keyboard arrow button.

Drawing objects with straight lines

This option is used when drawing with the toolbox tools. Select an object, press the Ctrl button and then resize the object. The lines of the object become straight. When using the circle tool the object becomes a circle.

General

Tip Accessing the Operator Workstation

Description

Use the Ctrl + W shortcut key in most modules to open the Operator Workstation.

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Defining additional P-CIM modules to run during P-CIM Startup

To define that a module runs during P-CIM Startup, in the INI File Editor open the PCIM.INI file and define the modules file as follows: Section=Startup Token=filename String=,normal or min For example, to run the Text File Server, enter the following: Section=Startup Token=TXTSRV String=,normal Note: To locate a modules file name, in the P-CIM Group right click on a modules icon and select Properties/Target field.

Restoring projects with mapped folders

P-CIM creates a folder in the mapped drive when restoring a project that has a mapped folder defined. If this drive does not exist on your PC, create it before restoring the project. If the font size of the text in these windows is too large, it will not be fully displayed. In the Alarm Summary Options menu, select Font to open the Fonts dialog box and change the font size to 10 or to a smaller/higher font size. Use the |! as a shortcut for DBSR|PCIM! throughout the application. For example when adding properties to objects.

Alarm Handler display fonts

|!

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Recommendations
Since the Action Down option immediately performs the defined action after a button is pressed, we recommend using the Action Up option only. This will give operators more control over the system and enable them to prevent unwanted actions if the button is accidentally pressed. To enhance application performance use the AV, DV, CL, BL, and Alarm database blocks only for alarms and history collection. Scan time should be taken into consideration when designing a database block. A scan time value can be more than one second if the blocks value changes once every few minutes, and if the updated accuracy is not important.

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Appendix 2 - Glossary

Term Action Button Alarms

Description

A button that when clicked and/or released by the operator performs predefined actions. P-CIM alarms are used to warn the operator about different occurrences in the system or plant devices. Alarms are defined in the Database Editor in the AV, DV, CL, BL and Alarm blocks. Aliases are text names used as shortcuts for addresses and are generally defined during project design. AutoActions trigger action commands that are performed according to predefined conditions. During runtime, AutoActions run automatically and without operator interference. AutoActions are triggered by events or at a predefined time. A cell is a collection of objects and their properties that are grouped into one entity. The P-CIM database server. The project that is automatically opened during P-CIM Startup. The default project is defined in the Project Setup dialog box. Software that connects the PC to any device such as a PLC. This block is used for digital variables. Digital values are constantly scanned. Alarms can be generated. Using the Dynamic Display, one generic object can be defined to represent multiple similar objects. During runtime, the dynamic display is used as a template that has dynamic links, which change when an object is selected. A display is a collection of graphical objects illustrating the plant floor and its devices. A display can show data and can also receive operator input. P-CIM addressing syntax, that has the following format: Server=servername
Topic=topicname Item=itemname

Aliases AutoActions

Cells DBSR Default Project Driver Digital Block Dynamic Display

Display DDE Format (items)

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Data Blocks

A data block is a database element used for processing data. It has the following functionalities: Providing an operator interface. Generating alarms. Collecting history. Exchanging data with external devices and internal variables. Exchanging data between blocks. Converting raw data.

$Variables

$Variables are built in internal variables that provide information about the DBSR. $Variables are DDE items and are added during project development to the Item field. They are used in displays to show graphic objects, reports, database blocks, AutoAction triggers and more. Whereby the driver does not communicate with field devices, but reads/ writes internally. This mode is generally used during project design. Its setting is saved in the DRVRPORT.INI file. The image that is created in the Animation Editor interface. Properties define how an object is displayed and acts during runtime. There are three types of Properties: Indicator properties, defining how an object is displayed. Control properties, defining how an object acts during runtime. Special properties, defining trends, history and deviation meters.

Emulation Mode

(Graphical) Object Properties

The objects properties are linked to the communication address of the device. During runtime the object is displayed according to the assigned property and to the devices value.
Updates/updated object P-CIM Group Addressing Syntax

An object that has added properties. The container for P-CIM modules, usually saved on the Desktop. The format in which external addresses are specified in P-CIM is driver dependant. P-CIM modules can through direct access, retrieve raw data directly from communication drivers. Direct access addresses are referenced through DDE (Dynamic Data Exchange) by specifying the Server, Topic and Item.

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