SIMATIC HMI WinCC V8.

0 Getting Started
Welcome 1

Icons 2

Working with WinCC 3

SIMATIC HMI
Creating a project 4
WinCC V8.0
SIMATIC HMI WinCC V8.0 Getting 5
Configure communication
Started
Configuring the Process
Screens 6
Getting Started
Configuring faceplate types
and tag structures 7
Archiving and displaying
values 8

Configuring messages 9

Printout of the Online Help

03/2023
A5E52671436-AA
Legal information
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This manual contains notices you have to observe in order to ensure your personal safety, as well as to prevent
damage to property. The notices referring to your personal safety are highlighted in the manual by a safety alert
symbol, notices referring only to property damage have no safety alert symbol. These notices shown below
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NOTICE
indicates that property damage can result if proper precautions are not taken.
If more than one degree of danger is present, the warning notice representing the highest degree of danger
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relating to property damage.
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The product/system described in this documentation may be operated only by personnel qualified for the specific
task in accordance with the relevant documentation, in particular its warning notices and safety instructions.
Qualified personnel are those who, based on their training and experience, are capable of identifying risks and
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described. Since variance cannot be precluded entirely, we cannot guarantee full consistency. However,
the information in this publication is reviewed regularly and any necessary corrections are included in
subsequent editions.

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Table of contents

1 Welcome ................................................................................................................................................ 7
2 Icons..................................................................................................................................................... 11
3 Working with WinCC ............................................................................................................................ 13
4 Creating a project ................................................................................................................................ 15
4.1 Creating the "Quick_Start" project ...................................................................................... 16
5 Configuring communication ................................................................................................................ 19
5.1 Channels and connections in WinCC ................................................................................... 21
5.2 Tags in WinCC .................................................................................................................... 22
5.3 Adding a channel ............................................................................................................... 24
5.4 Creating a connection ........................................................................................................ 28
5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group ................................................................................... 31
5.6 Scaling process tags in WinCC ............................................................................................ 37
5.7 Creating internal tags ........................................................................................................ 39
6 Configuring the process screens ......................................................................................................... 43
6.1 The graphics system .......................................................................................................... 44
6.2 Creating process screens .................................................................................................... 45
6.3 Editing process screens ...................................................................................................... 49
6.3.1 Inserting graphic objects from the library ........................................................................... 50
6.3.2 Inserting a "Static text" graphic object ................................................................................ 57
6.3.3 Editing the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture ............................................................................ 60
6.4 Dynamizing process screens ............................................................................................... 61
6.4.1 Dynamizing the fill level indicator ...................................................................................... 62
6.4.2 Inserting and dynamizing an I/O field (graphics system - process pictures) .......................... 66
6.5 Creating user-defined menus and toolbars ......................................................................... 71
6.5.1 Creating procedures for customized menus and toolbars .................................................... 72
6.5.2 Creating a customized menu for screen changes ................................................................ 77
6.5.3 Creating a customized toolbar to exit Runtime.................................................................... 80
6.6 Executing a project in Runtime ........................................................................................... 83
6.6.1 Defining Runtime properties (graphics system - process pictures) ....................................... 83
6.6.2 Activating the project (graphics system - process pictures).................................................. 87
6.6.3 Testing the project (graphics system - process pictures) ...................................................... 90
6.6.4 Using Runtime system dialogs ............................................................................................ 94
7 Configuring faceplate types and tag structures ................................................................................ 103
7.1 Configuring faceplate types ............................................................................................. 103
7.2 Creating structure tags..................................................................................................... 105

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7.2.1 Creating a structure type.................................................................................................. 105

7.2.2 Creating structure tags .................................................................................................... 108
7.3 Configuring a popup screen ............................................................................................. 110
7.3.1 Creating a popup screen and adapting its size .................................................................. 110
7.3.2 Placing objects in the popup screen.................................................................................. 112
7.3.3 Dynamizing objects in the popup screen .......................................................................... 115
7.4 Configuring a faceplate type ............................................................................................ 118
7.4.1 Creating a faceplate type and placing objects ................................................................... 118
7.4.2 Linking a structure type with a faceplate type ................................................................... 121
7.4.3 Configuring a popup screen ............................................................................................. 124
7.5 Creating a faceplate instance ........................................................................................... 126
7.6 Changing the faceplate type ............................................................................................ 130
7.6.1 Animating an object property........................................................................................... 131
7.7 Testing the project (graphics system - faceplate types) ..................................................... 135
8 Archiving and displaying values ........................................................................................................ 139
8.1 Archiving and displaying values ....................................................................................... 139
8.2 The archive system .......................................................................................................... 140
8.3 Starting Tag Logging........................................................................................................ 142
8.4 Configuring timers ........................................................................................................... 143
8.5 Creating the process value archive ................................................................................... 145
8.6 Editing the process value archive ..................................................................................... 148
8.7 Configuring a process screen (archive system) ................................................................. 151
8.7.1 Configuring a trend window ............................................................................................ 152
8.7.2 Configuring a table window ............................................................................................. 160
8.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (archive system) ....................................................... 166
8.9 Defining Runtime properties (archive system) .................................................................. 168
8.10 Activating and testing the project (archive system)........................................................... 170
9 Configuring messages ....................................................................................................................... 173
9.1 The message system ........................................................................................................ 174
9.2 Starting Alarm Logging .................................................................................................... 176
9.3 Configuring message blocks............................................................................................. 177
9.4 Configuring bit messages................................................................................................. 180
9.4.1 Creating bit messages ...................................................................................................... 181
9.5 Configuring analog messages .......................................................................................... 184
9.5.1 Setting limit values .......................................................................................................... 185
9.5.2 Displaying messages in trend windows ............................................................................ 188
9.6 Defining the color of the message statuses....................................................................... 193
9.7 Configuring a process screen (message system) ............................................................... 195
9.7.1 Configuring an alarm message window ............................................................................ 196
9.7.2 Inserting and dynamizing a slider object........................................................................... 201

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9.7.3 Inserting a scale ............................................................................................................... 204

9.7.4 Inserting and dynamizing an I/O field (message system) ................................................... 208
9.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (message system) .................................................... 213
9.9 Defining Runtime properties (message system) ................................................................ 215
9.10 Activating the project (message system) .......................................................................... 218
9.11 Testing the project (message system)............................................................................... 222
Glossary ............................................................................................................................................. 227
Index .................................................................................................................................................. 237

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Welcome 1
Welcome to WinCC Getting Started.
Getting Started provides a quick and targeted introduction to WinCC V8.

SIMATIC HMI WinCC

WinCC is a powerful HMI system for use under Microsoft Windows or
Microsoft Windows Server.
HMI stands for "Human Machine Interface", i.e. the interface between the person and
the machine.
WinCC enables operator control and monitoring of processes running in a machine or plant.
The communication between WinCC and the machine takes place via an automation system.

Getting started
You will need approx. four hours to work through all subjects of this documentation and
to learn the basics of WinCC configuration.
The pictorial representation of the individual configuration steps help you to orient yourself
quickly in the editors.

Example project "Quick_Start"

The creation of a sample project is described in Getting Started.
You will control a water treatment system with this project.
To do so, you will "configure" different objects that are necessary to operate and monitor
the system, such as:
• Pictures to depict and operate the processes on the control device.
• Tags to transfer data between the operating device and the installation
• Archive to store the process data
• Messages to indicate the operating states of the plant on the HMI device

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Welcome

This Getting Started guides you through the following steps:

• Creating a project
You create a project in WinCC Explorer that serves as the basis for configuring
an operator interface.
• Configuring the communication
You configure connections and tags in the "Tag Management" editor to establish
communication between the AS and HMI device.
• Configuring process pictures
You configure process pictures in the "Graphics Designer" editor that you use
to display, operate and monitor processes.
• Configuring faceplate types and structure types
You configure reusable templates for process pictures and structured tag groups.
• Archiving and displaying values
You configure archives and define archiving cycles in the "Tag Logging" editor
in order to archive process values.
• Configuring messages
You configure discrete and analog alarms in the "Alarm Logging" editor
in order to monitor machine or plant processes.

Installation of WinCC
WinCC Setup contains a detailed installation guide.
WinCC Setup includes all the programs you need to perform the configuration steps.

WinCC know-how and training

You can find more information about WinCC on the Internet:
• SIMATIC WinCC V7 in the Online Support
(https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/93906404):
All important information about WinCC at a glance.
• Training:
– SITRAIN course: WinCC V7 (basic course/system course)
(https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/109758633)
– SITRAIN advanced course: WinCC V7 and WinCC options
(https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/109758660)
• Compatibility tool for automation and drive technology:
(https://support.industry.siemens.com/kompatool/index.html?lang=en):
The tool informs you about the compatibility of Siemens products.
Other products are also covered, for example, operating system versions.

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 Welcome

See also
Creating a project (Page 15)
Configure communication (Page 19)
Configuring the Process Screens (Page 43)
Configuring faceplate types and tag structures (Page 103)
Archiving and displaying values (Page 139)
Configuring messages (Page 173)

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Welcome

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Icons 2
Introduction
This section provides information for the icons that are used in Getting Started.

Used icons
The following icons are used to represent the individual steps of the instructions pictorially:

Icon Meaning
A click with the left mouse button

A click with the right mouse button

A double-click with the left mouse button

Entering text via the keyboard

Press and hold the left mouse button (drag-and-drop)

Dragging with the left mouse button pressed (drag-and-drop)

Release the left mouse button after dragging (drag-and-drop)

Numbering of the individual action steps

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Icons

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Working with WinCC 3
Introduction
WinCC is a modular system:
• You use WinCC to visualize the process and configure a graphical user interface.
• You use the user interface for operator control and monitoring of the process.

Functions of WinCC
• You visualize the process with WinCC.
For this purpose, the process is visualized graphically on the screen.
The display is updated as soon as a state in the process changes.
• You control the process with WinCC.
For example, you can specify a setpoint or open a valve from the user interface.
• You monitor the process with WinCC.
An alarm is automatically triggered when critical process states occur.
If, for example, a pre-defined value is exceeded, a message appears on the screen.
• You archive the process with WinCC.
WinCC allows you to digitally archive messages and process values or output them
as a PDF.
You thereby document the process history and have access to past production data.

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Working with WinCC

Components of WinCC
The basic components are the Configuration software (CS) and Runtime software (RT)

WinCC Configuration Software (CS)

WinCC Explorer forms the core of the Configuration software.
The overall project structure is displayed and the project is managed in WinCC Explorer.
You can open various editors from WinCC Explorer.
Each editor belongs to a subsystem of WinCC.
The most important subsystems of WinCC are:

Subsystem Editor Function

Graphics system Graphics Designer Configuring pictures
Alarm logging Alarm Logging Configuring messages
Archive system Tag Logging Archiving data
Report system Report Designer Creating layouts
User administration User Administrator Administering users and user rights
Communication Tag Management Configuring communication

WinCC Runtime Software (RT)

WinCC Runtime runs the project in process mode. The project is then in Runtime.
WinCC Runtime enables operator control and monitoring of the processes.
The Runtime system has, in particular, the following tasks:
• Reading the configuration data stored in the CS database
• Displaying process pictures on the screen
• Communication with the automation system
• Archiving current Runtime data, e.g. process values and alarm events
• Controlling the process, e.g. through setpoint specification or switching on and off

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Creating a project 4
Introduction
This section describes how you create a project in WinCC Explorer.
The project is the basis for the configuration of a user interface in WinCC. Within the project
you will create and edit all objects that you will need to operate and observe the processes.

Principle
You create the project in WinCC Explorer.
WinCC Explorer is the configuration system of WinCC.
You use WinCC Explorer to manage your projects.

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Creating a project
4.1 Creating the "Quick_Start" project

4.1 Creating the "Quick_Start" project

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to start WinCC and create the "Quick_Start" project.
You will create the "Quick_Start" project as a "Single-user project".
A "Single-user project" only runs on one PC. Other computers cannot access this project.
The project runs on a computer that serves as the server for data processing and
as an operator station.

Starting WinCC Explorer

When you start WinCC for the first time, the "WinCC Explorer" will open.
In this dialog, you will select a project type or open an existing project.
The next time WinCC is started, the last project worked on will be opened.
If the project was active at the time WinCC was exited, it is reopened in activated state.

Requirement
• The "Standard" variant of WinCC has been installed at a minimum.

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 Creating a project
4.1 Creating the "Quick_Start" project

Procedure
1. Start WinCC.
If required, open the input window using <Windows+R>.

2. In the Welcome screen, select "Single-User Project" and enter the project information.
Accept the default settings in the "New subfolder" and "Project path" fields or
choose a different path on your PC.

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Creating a project
4.1 Creating the "Quick_Start" project

Result
You have created the "Quick_Start" project.
The project is opened in the WinCC Explorer.
The project structure with the required editors is displayed in the left pane of WinCC Explorer.
When an editor is selected in the left pane, the right pane shows the elements that belong
to that editor.

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Configuring communication 5
Introduction
This section contains information on configuring the communication between WinCC and
the automation system.
This section shows you how to create and scale tags.

Principle
You configure the communication using the "WinCC Configuration Studio".
You will need at least the following components to configure the communication:
• One channel with channel units
• One connection
• One process tag
In practice, you will achieve access to the current process values of the automation system
by the configured communication.

Communication in the WinCC system

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Configuring communication

Configuring in the "Quick_Start" project

You do not need an automation system for the "Quick_Start" project.
In this project, all values are transported within WinCC using internal tags.
The configuring of the communication between WinCC and the automation system and
the linear scaling of process tags are exercises for gaining practical experience.

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 Configuring communication
5.1 Channels and connections in WinCC

5.1 Channels and connections in WinCC

Introduction
Through channels and connections, you specify how the automation system is connected
to WinCC.

The channels
The channels are specialized communication drivers.
Channels enable process tags with process values to be supplied from the automation
system, and vice versa.
WinCC provides a variety of channels for connection of different automation systems.

The channel units

The channels have different channel units for the different communication networks.
This channel unit is then used to access to a certain type of automation system.
A channel unit forms the interface to exactly one underlying hardware driver and therefore
to exactly one communications processor in the PC.

The connections
You configure connections to the various automation systems under the channel units.
Each connection describes the interface to an individual, defined automation system.
The data exchange takes place in Runtime via the connections.

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Configuring communication
5.2 Tags in WinCC

5.2 Tags in WinCC

Introduction
The tags in WinCC represent either external values or internal values.
The internal values are calculated or simulated within WinCC.
The external values are read, for example, from the automation system.
WinCC manages the communication connections and tags in the Tag Management.
Use the "Tag Management" editor in "WinCC Configuration Studio" for configuration
and management.

Process tags
External tags serve as the link for the data exchange between WinCC and the
automation system.
Each external tag in WinCC corresponds to a certain process value in the memory of
one of the connected automation systems.
External tags are therefore referred to as process tags.
In Runtime, the process values of the process tags are determined and entered by WinCC.
In WinCC, you can also determine the values for the process tags.
These values are transferred to the automation system via the stipulated channel.
The automation system controls the process accordingly.

Internal tags
You use internal tags in WinCC to transport values within WinCC without a process link.

Tag groups
The tag groups are components of the "Tag management" editor.
Tag groups are used to organize tags in a clear structure.

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 Configuring communication
5.2 Tags in WinCC

Structure tags
Structure tags are equivalent to a template you can use to create multiple tag groups
having the same properties in each case.
The created structure assists you in the repeated visualization of comparably structured
plant components.
For this you define a structure type with specific elements and properties.
The structure type is linked with as many structure tag as desired, each of which receives
the same elements and properties.
In this way you avoid having to configure identical applications multiple times.
In practice, such structures are often imported from the PLC or third-party applications.
You then use the structures in WinCC without having to separately configure the tags.

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Configuring communication
5.3 Adding a channel

5.3 Adding a channel

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to create a channel in WinCC.
WinCC communicates with the automation system via this channel.
This also supplies process values to the process tags in WinCC.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

Procedure
1. Open the "Tag Management" editor.

The "Tag Management" editor opens in the WinCC Configuration Studio.

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 Configuring communication
5.3 Adding a channel

2. Insert the "SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500 Channel".

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Configuring communication
5.3 Adding a channel

3. To enlarge the data area, reduce the size of the "Properties" window using the button.
To show the "Properties" window again, click on the button.
4. You can hide and show columns in the data area in the editors of the
WinCC Configuration Studio.

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 Configuring communication
5.3 Adding a channel

Result
"SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500 Channel" is displayed in Tag Management.
The channel unit "OMS+" is displayed below the channel.

Next steps
You create a connection to the automation system below the channel unit "OMS+".

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Configuring communication
5.4 Creating a connection

5.4 Creating a connection

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to create a connection to the automation system
under the channel unit "OMS+".
The data exchange will take place via this connection in Runtime.

Requirement
• "SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500 Channel" has been added to Tag Management.

Procedure
1. Create a new connection under channel unit "OMS+".

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 Configuring communication
5.4 Creating a connection

2. Enter "PLC_1" as the connection name.

3. Open the "Connection Parameters" dialog to configure the connection.

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Configuring communication
5.4 Creating a connection

4. Enter the connection parameters.

5. Close the dialog with "OK".

Result
You have established the "PLC_1" connection to the automation system.
The connection is displayed in Tag Management.

Next steps
You create a tag group and a tag below the "PLC_1" connection.

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5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create a process tag in a tag group,
and how to determine its properties.
The tag groups are components of the "Tag management" editor.
You can sort and clearly display the structured tags using these components.
You specify the following properties for the process tag:
• Name
• Data type
The data type determines the data format in WinCC.
The data type of a tag in WinCC can differ from the data type used in the
automation system.
• Address
Via the addressing, you assign a certain data range in the automation system
to a process tag.
The addressing type depends on the type of communication partner.

Requirement
• The "PLC_1" connection is created in Tag Management.

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Configuring communication
5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

Procedure
1. Create a tag group.

2. Enter "Tag_Group_1" as tag group name.

3. To create a process tag below the tag group, enter "Process_Tag_1" as the process tag name
in the topmost available field of the "Name" column.
The "Process_Tag_1" process tag has been created.

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5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

4. Select data type "Signed 16-bit value".

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Configuring communication
5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

5. Click "..." in the "Address" column to specify the properties of the tag addressing.

The "Address properties" dialog box opens.

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5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

6. Enter the information for the address description.

7. Close the dialog with "OK".

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Configuring communication
5.5 Creating process tags in a tag group

Result
You have created the process tag "Process_Tag_1".
The process tag is displayed in the table area of the "Tag Management" editor.
The "Properties - Tag" area displays all properties of the selected tag.
The type conversion can convert the data format of an automation system
into a WinCC format.
The process tag was the last component needed to create the communication
between WinCC and the automation system.

Next steps
You define the properties of the linear scaling for scaling process values in WinCC.

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5.6 Scaling process tags in WinCC

5.6 Scaling process tags in WinCC

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to scale process tags in WinCC.
Using linear scaling, you map the value range of a process value linearly onto a defined
value range of a process tag in WinCC. The process value itself is not modified.
You will specify the following properties for the linear scaling:
• Set the value range of the process value in the "AS value range" columns.
• Set the value range of the process tag in WinCC in the "OS value range" columns.
Linear scaling is only available for process tags. You cannot scale internal tags.

Example:
A temperature sensor measures resistance in a system and returns the value in the
unit "Ohm". Specific resistance values correspond to specific temperatures.
You can use the linear scaling function for automatic conversion of the resistance values
to the temperature scale. This ensures that the measured resistance is immediately displayed
as temperature in the project.
In Tag Management, the resistance value corresponds to the settings in the "AS value range"
columns. The temperature corresponds to the settings in the "OS value range" columns.

Requirement
• The "Process_Tag_1" process tag has been created in Tag Management.

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Configuring communication
5.6 Scaling process tags in WinCC

Procedure
1. Activate linear scaling and define the value range for the process and the tag.

Result
You have activated linear scaling for the "Process_Tag_1" process tag.
The value ranges for the process and the tag are set.
The value range of the process value [-20...20] is displayed as value range of the
process tag [0...100].

Next steps
You create an internal tag.

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5.7 Creating internal tags

5.7 Creating internal tags

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to create an internal tag in a tag group,
and how to determine its properties.
The internal tag is used to transfer values within WinCC.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "Internal tags" entry in Tag Management.
2. Create the "QuickStart_Tags" tag group in the "Groups" tab.

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3. Enter "Tank_Level" as name of the internal tag to create an internal tag in the tag group.
4. Select data type "Unsigned 16-bit value".

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Result
You have created the internal tag "Tank_Level" and defined its data type in the
"QuickStart_Tags" tag group.
The internal tag "Tank_Level" is displayed in Tag Management.
Tags whose name starts with "@" are system tags. You can use system tags in your project
but you cannot change them.

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Introduction
This section provides information about the graphics system and a description of
how to configure process pictures.
The process pictures are main elements of a project. They represent a process and
allow the operation and observation of this process.

Principle
You can use the "Graphics Designer" editor to configure the process pictures.
This editor is the configuration component of the graphics system in WinCC.
Each process picture consists of one or more objects:
• Static objects remain unchanged in Runtime.
• Dynamic objects change in accordance with the individual process values.
A bar is an example of a dynamic object.
The length of the bar depends on the current temperature value.
• Controllable objects allow you to have an active influence on the process.
These objects include buttons, sliders, or I/O fields used for entering certain
process parameters (input/output field).
A project often comprises several process pictures.
Each process picture shows a different process step or displays special process data.

Configuring in the "Quick_Start" project

In this section, you create a process picture "START.Pdl" that represents a water treatment
system. The creation of a second process picture "SAMPLE.Pdl" is foreseen as an exercise.
WinCC provides you with all the objects you need to configure the process pictures.
In the second step, you dynamize the process picture "START.Pdl" using the internal tag
"Tank_Level" that you created beforehand. This results in a graphic representation of the level
in a water tank as a function of the tag value.

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6.1 The graphics system

6.1 The graphics system

Introduction
The graphics system is a subsystem of WinCC.
This subsystem is used to configure process pictures.
The graphics system handles the following tasks:
• It displays static and operator-controllable objects, such as texts, graphics or buttons
• It updates dynamic objects, e.g. modifies the length of a bar graph in relation to
a process value
• It reacts to operator input, e.g. clicking a button or entering a text into a text box

The Components of the Graphics System

The graphics system is made up of a configuration component and a Runtime component:
• The "Graphics Designer" editor is the configuration component of the graphics system.
You create the process pictures for your project in this editor.
• Graphics Runtime is the Runtime component of the graphics system.
Graphics Runtime displays the pictures in Runtime and administers all inputs and outputs.

Graphics system in the WinCC system

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6.2 Creating process screens

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create and rename process pictures in the
WinCC Explorer.
New, empty process pictures can be created using either the "Graphics Designer" editor
or the WinCC Explorer:
• If you wish to edit a process picture immediately, create it using the "Graphics Designer"
editor.
• If you wish to create all required process pictures before you process them,
we recommend that you use the WinCC Explorer.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

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Procedure
1. Create a new process picture.

The process picture is displayed in the right pane of WinCC Explorer.

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2. Rename the process picture you created to "Start.Pdl".

The "Start.Pdl" process picture is displayed in the right pane of the WinCC Explorer.
3. Create a second process picture similar to steps 1 and 2 and name it "SAMPLE.Pdl".

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Result
You have created the process pictures "START.Pdl" and "SAMPLE.Pdl".
These are displayed in the right pane of WinCC Explorer.

Next steps
You create a pictorial representation of a water treatment system by inserting several objects
in the "START.Pdl" process picture.

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6.3 Editing process screens

Introduction
This section offers a description how to edit process pictures using the "Graphics Designer"
editor.
At the end of the section, you have the opportunity to deepen what you have learned
by editing the "SAMPLE.Pdl" picture on your own.

Principle
You can use the "Graphics Designer" editor to configure the process pictures. The structure
of this editor is similar to a drawing program and it is also operated in a similar manner.
The "Graphics Designer" editor provides objects and tools to configure process pictures.
For the "Quick_Start" project you use mainly the object palette and the library of the editor
"Graphics Designer".
The object palette contains different types of objects that are frequently required
for configuring process pictures.
You insert the objects of the object palette into the process pictures using drag-and-drop.
Alternatively, select the object and click once with the left mouse button on the work surface
of the process picture.
The object palette contains the following types of objects to configure pictures:
• Standard objects: e.g. line, polygon, ellipse, circle, rectangle, static text
• Smart objects: e.g. application window, picture window, OLE object, I/O field, bars,
status display
• Windows objects: e.g. button, check box, option group, slider object
• Tube objects: e.g. polygon tube, T-piece, double T-piece, tube bend
• Controls: The most important ActiveX controls can be found in the "Controls" tab.
You can integrate additional controls using the control object.
You can create your pictures efficiently using the library. The library contains graphic objects,
which you can insert into your pictures using drag-and-drop.
You can import graphics of external graphic programs in the "Graphics Designer" editor.

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6.3.1 Inserting graphic objects from the library

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert graphic objects from the SVG library
into the "START.Pdl" process picture.
The SVG library is a component of the "Graphics Designer" editor.
This component is a versatile tool to store and manage graphic objects.
The library is split up into two areas:
• Global Library
The "Global SVG library" area is structured in a directory tree.
It offers a variety of pre-made graphic objects, such as machine and system parts,
measuring devices, operator controls and buildings.
• Project Library
In the "Project SVG library" area, you can store custom projects.
You will only need the graphic objects of the area "Global SVG Library" for the
"Quick_Start" project.
You use these objects to represent a water treatment system in the "START.Pdl"
process picture.

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Procedure
1. Open the "START.Pdl" process picture in the "Graphics Designer" editor.

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2. If the "SVG Library" window is not displayed, enable the view.

The "SVG Library" window opens.

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3. Select the global SVG library "IndustryGraphicLibraryV2.0" in the "SVG Library" window.

Use the button in the toolbar of the library to obtain a preview of the available objects.

You can resize the displayed symbols using the and buttons.

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4. Insert the "Digester" object from the "Water_Wastewater" folder.

The picture of the bioconverter appears on the work surface.

Zoom in on the picture by clicking and dragging one of the displayed points
with the mouse.

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5. Add representations of other objects, e.g. pipelines and a valve.

Use the mouse or the cursor keys to move the pictures of objects on the process picture.

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Result
You have now depicted the water treatment system.

Next steps
You label the represented process by inserting the "Static text" object into the process picture.

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6.3.2 Inserting a "Static text" graphic object

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to insert and edit the "Static text" object.
The object "Static text" is a text field that remains unchanged in Runtime.
In the "Quick_Start" project you need the static text for labeling the displayed processes.
If you create multiple pictures, clear labeling of the represented processes is important.

Requirement
• The "START.Pdl" process picture is open in the "Graphics Designer" editor.

Procedure
1. To insert the "Static Text" object, click on the object in the "Standard" window and then
on the process picture.

The text field is displayed on the process picture.

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2. Drag the text box using the mouse and set the font type and size.

3. Double-click inside the text field and enter the title, e.g. "Wastewater Treatment Ltd",
using the keyboard.
4. Resize the text box to fit the text.
5. Save the "START.Pdl" process picture using the button in the toolbar.
6. Close the "START.Pdl" process picture.

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Result
You have added a static text field and labeled the displayed process.

Next steps
• For more practice in creating and editing process pictures, you have the option of
creating an additional process picture "SAMPLE.Pdl".
• You dynamize the plant in the "START.Pdl" process picture by inserting an input field and
connecting it to the graphic of the bioconverter using the internal tag.

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6.3.3 Editing the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture

Introduction
In the following steps, you edit the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture.
While editing, you display a process using the graphic objects in the library.
Displaying the process is a free exercise. You do not need this step for the
"Quick_Start" project.

Requirement
• The "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture has been created.
• The "Graphics Designer" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Open the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture using the button in the toolbar of the
"Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Use the graphic objects of the library, for example, to represent a pump with status display.
3. Save the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture using the button in the toolbar.
4. Close the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture.

Result
You have edited the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture.

See also
Inserting graphic objects from the library (Page 50)

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6.4 Dynamizing process screens

Introduction
This section describes how to dynamize process pictures.

Principle
You dynamize the "START.Pdl" process picture in the "Quick_Start" project through
a direct tag connection.

Tag connection
With a direct tag connection, you connect a tag to a dynamic object of the process picture.
If the tag takes on a value in Runtime, this value is transferred directly to the dynamic object.
The dynamic display of the object changes in Runtime according to the tag value.
In practice, the dynamic object of a process picture is connected to a process tag.
If there is a connection between WinCC and the automation system, the automation system
supplies the process tag with values.
The dynamic object indicates the change of process values in Runtime.
In the "Graphics Designer" editor you can also configure objects that transfer values
to the automation system. The automation system uses the transferred values to control
the process.

Dynamization using an internal tag

You do not need an automation system for the "Quick_Start" project. In this project,
you connect the internal tag "Tank_Level" to the graphic image of the bioconverter.
To specify values for the internal tag, you configure an I/O field. The I/O field is an input and
output field that is used to display and change the tag values.
If you enter a value in the I/O field in Runtime, this value is received by the internal tag
"Tank_Level". The internal tag transfers the entered value to the graphic object that depicts
the bioconverter. The fill level indicator changes according to the tag value.

Activating WinCC Runtime

WinCC Runtime is started when a project is activated.
WinCC Runtime executes a project in process mode. The project is then in Runtime.
You perform operator control and monitoring of the processes in Runtime.
You specify the Runtime properties in WinCC Explorer.

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6.4.1 Dynamizing the fill level indicator

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to dynamize the fill level indicator of the bioconverter.
The dynamization of the fill level indicator involves the following steps:
• Connecting the graphic picture of the bioconverter with the internal tag "Tank_Level"
The connection to the internal tag "Tank_Level" allows the transfer of tag values
to the graphic object that depicts the bioconverter. The fill level indicator changes
according to the tag values in Runtime.
A link between a tag and an object is indicated in the "Object Properties" window
by means of the icon and by bold font.
• Specifying the update cycle
The update cycle determines the time interval at which the fill level indicator is updated.

Requirement
• The "START.Pdl" process picture has been created.
• The internal tag "Tank_Level" has been created.
• The SVG object "Digester" has been inserted in the "START.Pdl" process picture
as a graphic depiction of the bioconverter.

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Procedure
1. Open the "START.Pdl" process picture and click on the "Digester" object.
2. Open the "Symbol properties" group in the "Object Properties" window and
change the "DisplayFillLevel" attribute from "No" to "Yes".

A bar graph is displayed as fill level indicator in the "Digester" SVG object.

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3. Open the "Tag" dialog to link the "FillLevelValue" attribute with a tag.

4. Select the internal tag "Tank_Level".

If needed, select the "WinCC Tags" option in the "Data source" area.

The transparent light bulb in the "FillLevelValue" line will turn green.
The "Symbol properties" property and the "FillLevelValue" attribute are displayed in bold.

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5. Set the value of the fill level update cycle to "5s".

Result
You have connected the internal tag "Tank_Level" to the graphic picture of a bioconverter.
This connection allows the transfer of tag values to the graphic object.

Next steps
You insert an I/O field in the "START.Pdl" process picture for input and output of values.

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6.4.2 Inserting and dynamizing an I/O field (graphics system - process pictures)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert and dynamize an I/O field.
The I/O field is an input/output field that is used to display and change tag values.
The dynamization of the I/O field involves the following steps:
• Connecting the I/O field with the internal tag "Tank_Level"
You will connect the I/O field with the internal tag "Tank_Level" in the "Quick_Start"
project. This establishes an indirect connection between the I/O field and the graphic
of the bioconverter.
If you enter a value in the I/O field in Runtime, this value is taken on by the internal tag
"Tank_Level".
The tag transfers the value to the graphic object that depicts the bioconverter.
The fill level indicator of the bioconverter changes in Runtime according to the tag value.
• Defining update
With the update you will define at which time intervals the display in the I/O field
will be updated.
• Defining attributes "Low Limit Value" and "High Limit Value"
With the attributes "Low Limit Value" and "High Limit Value" you can limit the input
into the I/O field to a certain value range. Values outside the configured value range
are declined by the system and are not displayed.

Requirement
• The "START.Pdl" process picture is open in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
• The internal tag "Tank_Level" has been created.

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Procedure
1. To insert the "I/O Field" smart object, click on the object in the "Standard" window and then
on the process picture.
The I/O field appears on the work surface. The "I/O Field Configuration" dialog opens.
2. Link the "Tank_Level" tag with the new I/O field.
Select 500 ms as update cycle and 24 as font size.

Select the "Configuration Dialog" entry in the shortcut menu of the I/O field to reopen
the "I/O Field Configuration" dialog.
The "Output/Input" property is displayed in bold font in the "Object Properties" window.
Here, you can see that the internal tag "Tank_Level" is connected to the I/O field.
You can create the connection to a tag in the "I/O-Field Configuration" dialog as well as
in the "Object Properties" window.

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3. Open the "Limits" group in the "Object Properties" window and set the "Low Limit Value"
to 0.

4. Similar to step 3, set 100 as a "High Limit Value".

5. Save the "START.Pdl" process picture.
6. Close the "Graphics Designer" editor.

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Alternative procedure
1. Select the "Tank_Level" tag in the "Tags" window of the "QuickStart_Tags" tag group.
2. Drag-and-drop the tag into the process picture.

An I/O field is created for the selected tag.

The I/O field is connected with the "Tank_Level" tag.
3. Select "Configuration Dialog" from the shortcut menu of the I/O field to open
the "I/O field configuration" dialog.
4. Select 500 ms as update cycle and 24 as font size.
5. To move the I/O field to the desired position, use the mouse or the arrow keys
on the keyboard (cursor keys).
Continue with step 3 of the above procedure.

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Result
You have inserted an I/O field and connected it with the internal tag "Tank_Level".
If you enter a value in the I/O field in Runtime, this value is transferred to the graphic picture
of the bioconverter via the internal tag. The fill level indicator changes according to the
entered value.
With the attributes "Low Limit Value" and "High Limit Value" you have defined a value range
for the I/O field.
If you enter the value "0" in the I/O field in Runtime, an empty bioconverter is displayed.
If you enter the value "100" in the I/O field in Runtime, a full bioconverter is displayed.
Values outside the value range are declined by the system.

Next steps
• You create a user-defined menu to allow you to change between configured pictures
in Runtime.
• You define the properties of WinCC Runtime and activate the "Quick_Start" project
to view the dynamization of the "START.Pdl" process picture.

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6.5 Creating user-defined menus and toolbars

Introduction
In this section, you will find a description of how to create customized menus and toolbars
for a picture change.

Principle
In the "Menus and Toolbars" editor you can configure customized menus and toolbars.
The customized menus and toolbars are saved in a configuration file, which you assign
to the project in the "Computer" editor in WinCC.
You connect menu items and symbols with Global Script procedures.
Further configuration possibilities:
• Assigning authorizations
The logged-in operator must have the required authorization in order for the
correspondingly configured elements to be displayed.
• Hiding or deactivating menu commands and symbols
Create 2 configuration files with a different scope of functionality.
Application example: On a user change in runtime, the current configuration file
is replaced by the 2nd file.

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6.5.1 Creating procedures for customized menus and toolbars

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to create procedures in a module in Global Script.
You will need two procedures in order to make the customized menus and toolbars
functional:
• ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName):
Executes a picture change to the picture that is transferred with the
"PictureName" parameter.
• StopRuntime(ByVal Item):
Exits Runtime.

Procedure
1. Open the VBS-Editor.

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2. Select the "Project module" tab and write the following procedure code.
Sub ActivatePicture (Byval PictureName)

Dim objScreen
Dim strScreenName

'Userdata contains the screen name specified in editor menus and

toolbars

strScreenName = PictureName.Userdata
HMIRuntime.BaseScreenName = strScreenName

End Sub

3. Save the module as file "MenuToolbars_Commands.bmo" using "File > Save".

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4. Insert a new procedure.

5. Enter the name "StopRuntime(ByVal Item)".

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6. Write the following procedure code.

Sub ActivatePicture (Byval PictureName)

Dim objScreen
Dim strScreenName

'Userdata contains the screen name specified in editor menus and

toolbars

strScreenName = PictureName.Userdata
HMIRuntime.BaseScreenName = strScreenName

End Sub
Sub StopRuntime (ByVal Item)
HMIRuntime.Stop
End Sub

7. Save the module.

8. Close the VBS-Editor.

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Result
You have created the procedures "ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)" and
"StopRuntime(ByVal Item)".

Next steps
• You create a customized menu that executes the picture change to the "START.Pdl" and
"SAMPLE.Pdl" pictures.
• You will use a customized toolbar to exit Runtime.

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6.5.2 Creating a customized menu for screen changes

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create the customized menu "Picture Change"
with two menu items, "Start" and "Sample".
You will link the menu entries "Start" and "Sample" with the procedure
"ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)".
Enter the name of the process picture that you wish to change to in the "User data" box.

Requirement
• The procedure "ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)" has been created.

Procedure
1. Open the "Menus and toolbars" editor.
2. Create a new menu item.

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3. Give the menu item the name "Picture Change".

In the "Properties" window, you can enter the name for other Runtime languages
in the "Text" area.

4. Create the "Start" menu command.

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5. Configure the menu item "Start" so that it executes a picture change to the
"START.Pdl" picture.

6. Use the same procedure to create the menu item "Sample" that executes a picture change to
the "SAMPLE.Pdl" picture.
7. Save the configuration under the name "ActivatePicture" using "File > Save".

Result
You have created the "Picture Change" menu with two menu commands.
You use the menu items in Runtime to change to the "START.Pdl" and "SAMPLE.Pdl"
process pictures.

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6.5.3 Creating a customized toolbar to exit Runtime

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create a customized toolbar with an icon
to exit Runtime.

Graphic files for symbols

Copy a graphic file to be displayed as a symbol to the following folder:
• <Project folder>\GraMT\mtimages
You use a graphic, e.g. in BMP, PNG, JPG or GIF format, as a symbol.

Requirement
• The "ActivatePicture" configuration is open in the "Menus and toolbars" editor.
• The "StopRuntime(ByVal Item)" procedure has been created.
• A graphics file has been copied to the WinCC project folder as the symbol for
"Exit Runtime", e.g.:
– C:\Users\Public\Documents\Siemens\WinCCProjects\Quick_Start\GraMT\mtimages

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Procedure
1. Create a new toolbar and enter "WinCC Runtime" as name.

2. Configure the toolbar so that it is displayed by default at the upper edge of the picture,
while allowing users to change the position.

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3. Create a "Stop Runtime" element and configure an icon that is used to stop Runtime.
The graphic "stoprt.png" is used as the icon in this example.

4. Save the "ActivatePicture" configuration.

5. Close the "Menus and toolbars" editor.

Result
You have created the toolbar with an icon to exit Runtime and saved the configuration.

Next steps
To display the menu bar and toolbar in Runtime, select the configuration file when specifying
the Runtime properties.
In Runtime, the user-defined menus and toolbars are then displayed in each process picture.
If you generate additional process pictures in the course of the Getting Started, you can
extend the menu configuration to include the additional pictures using the steps shown.

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6.6 Executing a project in Runtime

6.6.1 Defining Runtime properties (graphics system - process pictures)

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to define the properties for WinCC Runtime.
You configure the properties of WinCC Runtime in the "Computer" editor of the
WinCC Configuration Studio.
You set up WinCC Runtime so that Graphics Runtime is executed when the project
is activated.
Select the "START.Pdl" process picture as the start screen for the Runtime window.
Load the created configuration file to display the user-defined menu and the toolbar
in the process pictures.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

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Procedure
1. Select the computer name under "Computer" and the "Properties" entry
in the shortcut menu.

The "Computer" editor opens.

2. Select the "Graphics Runtime" application on the "Startup" tab.

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3. On the "Graphics Runtime" tab, define the "START.Pdl" process picture as the start picture.

4. Select the configuration file for the menu and toolbars "ActivatePicture.mtl".
5. Activate the "Title", "Maximize", "Minimize", and "Scroll Bar" window attributes.

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Result
You have defined the WinCC Runtime properties.
When the "Quick_Start" project is activated, the "Graphics Runtime" component runs.
The "START.Pdl" process picture is displayed as the start picture.
The customized menus and toolbars are displayed in every process picture to navigate and
exit Runtime.
You use the window attributes to determine the additional functions of the Runtime window.

Next steps
You activate the "Quick_Start" project.

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6.6.2 Activating the project (graphics system - process pictures)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to activate the "Quick_Start" project and how to operate
the dynamic process picture "START.Pdl" in runtime.
When activating the project, WinCC Runtime is started. WinCC Runtime runs the project
in process mode.
In Runtime you will operate the configured I/O field and observe the changes in the
fill level indicator.

Requirement
• The Runtime properties are defined.

Procedure
1. Activate the "Quick_Start" project using the toolbar button in WinCC Explorer.
The Runtime window will open after a short loading time.
The "START.Pdl" process picture is displayed.

2. Enter values between 0 and 100 in the I/O field and confirm your entry with <Return>.
Observe the changes in the fill level indicator.

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3. To switch to the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture, click on the "Sample" entry

in the "Picture Change" menu.

4. To return to the "START.Pdl" process picture, click on the "Start" entry

in the "Picture Change" menu.
5. Click the configured toolbar button to exit Runtime.
Alternatively, stop Runtime using the button in the WinCC Explorer toolbar.

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Result
You have activated the "Quick_Start" project and thus started WinCC Runtime.
The dynamic process picture "START.Pdl" is displayed in the runtime window.
If you enter a value in the I/O field, this value is transferred to the graphic picture
of the bioconverter via the internal tag "Tank_Level".
This will allow you to monitor the fill level indicator of the bioconverter.

Next steps
You test the "Quick_Start" project and use the "Tag simulation" editor to simulate
the internal tag "Tank_Level".

See also
Creating a customized toolbar to exit Runtime (Page 80)

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6.6.3 Testing the project (graphics system - process pictures)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to test the "Quick_Start" project by means of the
WinCC TAG Simulator.
The WinCC TAG Simulator allows testing of a project, which is still in the development stage.
During testing you will check how the project acts when connected to an automation system.
In the "Quick_Start" project, you simulate the values of the internal tags "Tank_Level" with
the WinCC TAG Simulator. You configure the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor
in the WinCC Configuration Studio.
The WinCC TAG Simulator assigns different values to the internal tag "Tank_Level".
As the internal tag is connected to the graphic depiction of the bioconverter,
the fill level indicator of the bioconverter will change according to the tag values.

Requirement
• The Runtime properties are defined.

Procedure
1. Start the "Tags Simulation" editor.
The "Tags Simulation" editor opens.
2. Open the tag selection dialog and select the internal tag "Tank_Level"
from the tag group "QuickStart_Tags".

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3. Select the simulation type "Increment".

4. Open the "Properties" window and define the properties of the simulation type.

5. Save the simulation as "QuickStart_Simulation".

6. Activate WinCC Runtime in the WinCC Explorer using the button.

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7. Start the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor.

8. Position the "Tags Simulation" editor and the Runtime window in such a way
that you can monitor both.
Observe how the different simulation values affect the fill level indicator.
The configured update cycles cause different display delays.

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9. Exit the simulation and WinCC Runtime.

Result
You have tested "Quick_Start" project by means of the WinCC TAG Simulator.
The test shows the behavior of the project when it is supplied with process values.

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6.6.4 Using Runtime system dialogs

Introduction
The Runtime system dialogs can be used to perform actions that are frequently required
in Runtime. You do not need to configure the actions in the pictures.
Possible actions include:
• Close Runtime system dialogs
• Display start picture
• Display previous picture
• Display next picture
• Display favorite picture
• Select language
The following steps show you how to activate the Runtime system dialogs.
The example demonstrates the change between two pictures.

Requirement
• The "START.Pdl" and "SAMPLE.Pdl" process pictures have been created.
• The "START.Pdl" process picture has been defined as the start picture.

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Procedure
1. In WinCC Explorer, select the "START.Pdl" and "SAMPLE.Pdl" process pictures.
To select both pictures, press the <Ctrl> button when clicking.
2. Mark the process pictures as favorites.

The "START.Pdl" and "SAMPLE.Pdl" process pictures are displayed as favorites

in the right pane of WinCC Explorer.

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3. Open the properties of the computer via the shortcut menu in the navigation area
of the "Computer" editor.

The "Computer" editor opens.

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4. In the "Runtime options" area of the "Runtime" tab,

activate the "Activate the runtime system dialogs" option.

5. Open the project properties via the shortcut menu of the "Quick_Start" project.

The project properties open.

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6. On the "Shortcuts" tab, assign a keyboard shortcut, such as <Ctrl+R>,

to the "Runtime system dialogs" action.

7. Activate the "Quick_Start" project.

The Runtime window will open after a short loading time.
The "START.Pdl" process picture is displayed.

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8. Start the Runtime system dialog with the assigned keyboard shortcut, e.g. <Ctrl+R>.
The Runtime window opens and displays the system menu.

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9. Click "Favorites" and the "SAMPLE" process picture.

The Runtime system dialog is hidden and the "SAMPLE.Pdl" process picture is displayed.

Result
You have activated and tested the Runtime system dialogs.
You can use the system dialogs to navigate between the created process pictures and
change the language of WinCC Runtime.

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Configuring faceplate types and tag structures 7
7.1 Configuring faceplate types

Introduction
This section provides information on how to use faceplate types and structure tags
to configure reusable customized templates for process pictures.
Faceplate types and structure tags assist you in configuring objects and tags for multiple use.
The faceplate types are created as individual files. The management of these files in WinCC
corresponds to the handling of process pictures.

Principle

Faceplate types
You configure faceplate types in the "Graphics Designer" editor in exactly the same way as
process pictures. You place static, dynamic and operable objects and connect them to tags.
This produces a template that you can use as a faceplate instance in process pictures as often
as desired. This type-instance model reduces configuring effort significantly.
In the case of multiple use, you link comparable individual tag groups by linking the
faceplate type with a structure type.

Tag Management: Structure types

Structure types are templates for the scheme of a specific compilation of tags.
The structure type is assigned to different structure tags.
As a result, these structure tags always consist of the same elements as the structure type
but as standalone structure instances.
If a structure type has been linked with a faceplate type, you place the faceplate instances
by dragging the structure instances into the process picture using drag-and-drop.
In practice, structure types and the associated instances are imported from a PLC or
third-party application and do not have to be manually configured individually.
To export data records from a TIA Portal project, use the "SIEMENS SIMATIC SCADA Export"
tool.
You can find the tool for download as well as more information on the
Industry Online Support page:
• Industry Online Support: Download "SIMATIC SCADA Export for TIA Portal" (ID 109748955)
(https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/109748955)
• Industry Online Support: "SIMATIC SCADA Export" documentation (ID 101908495)
(https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/ww/en/view/101908495)

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7.1 Configuring faceplate types

Faceplate types and tag structures in the WinCC system

Configuring in the "Quick_Start" project

The "START.Pdl" process picture contains two valves, which apart from their graphical
representation have played no role up to now.
The project will now be expanded to display a popup screen when each valve is clicked.
The popup screen shows additional information, such as temperature and flow rate.
You use faceplate types and structure types to avoid having to create the associated tags and
the popup screen multiple times.
In this section you create the following:
• One structure type and two structure tags
• One faceplate type that is linked with the structure type
• One popup picture that is linked with the faceplate type
You use the created faceplate type as faceplate instances in your process picture.
To demonstrate the added value of faceplate types, you add a color visualization of the
valve state to the project.

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7.2 Creating structure tags

7.2.1 Creating a structure type

Introduction
The following steps show how to create a structure type and the associated
structure type elements.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

Procedure
1. Create a new structure type under the "Structure tags" entry in the Tag Management.

2. Enter "Valve_Info" as the name of the structure type.

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3. Create a structure type element for the "Valve_Info" structure type.

4. Enter "Name" as the name and select the data type "Text tag 16-bit character set".

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5. Create additional structure type elements with the following properties

via the shortcut menu:

Name Data type

Status Binary tag
Temperature Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754
Pressure Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754
Flow Floating-point number 64-bit IEEE 754

Alternatively, click in the next available field and enter the name of the
structure type element directly.
To create multiple structure type elements with a single action, click inside the field
named "Name" and drag the lower right corner of the field downward with the mouse.
Similar to the autofill function in Microsoft Excel, the column entries of the row
are applied in the rows underneath.

Result
You have created the "Valve_Info" structure type and defined five structure type elements.
The "Valve_Info" structure type is displayed below "Structure tags" in the Tag Management.

Next steps
You create structure tags based on the defined structure type.

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7.2.2 Creating structure tags

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create structure tags that use the previously created
structure type as data type.

Requirement
• The "Valve_Info" structure type has been created and defined.

Procedure
1. Create the structure tag "Valve1" for the "Valve_Info" structure type
on the "Structure tags" tab.

2. Click in any available field.

Since you have only created one structure data type up to now, "Valve_Info"
is automatically entered in the "Data type" column.
3. Create another structure tag named "Valve2".

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Result
You have created two structure tags based on the "Valve_Info" structure type.

The associated structure tag elements are created automatically as instances of the tags.

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7.3 Configuring a popup screen

7.3.1 Creating a popup screen and adapting its size

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create a popup screen that opens when the
faceplate instance is clicked.
You adapt the size of the process picture to prevent the popup screen from concealing
the contents underneath.

Requirement
• A process screen "POPUP.Pdl" has been created.
Follow the procedure described under: Creating process screens (Page 45)

Procedure
1. Open the "POPUP.Pdl" process picture in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Open the "Geometry" group in the "Object Properties" window and set "Picture Width"
to the value "200".

3. Analogous to step 2, set "Picture Height" to the value "200".

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Result
You have changed the dimensions of the process picture to 200 x 200 pixels.

Next steps
You place all the needed objects in the "POPUP.Pdl" process picture.

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7.3.2 Placing objects in the popup screen

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert the needed objects into the popup screen.
You use static text as the label and I/O fields for outputting the process values.

Requirement
• The "POPUP.Pdl" process picture is open.

Procedure
1. Insert five objects of "Static Text" type.
Follow the procedure described under: Editing Process Screens (Page 49)
2. Enter the following texts:
– Valve Information
– Name
– Temperature [°C]
– Pressure [Pa]
– Flow [l/s]

3. Define the font size in the text boxes.

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4. Adapt the size and position of the text boxes.

5. Insert three objects of "I/O field" type and select "Output" as the field type in each case.
Leave the "Tag" field empty.

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Result
You have inserted all the needed objects in the popup screen.

Next steps
You dynamize the inserted objects.

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7.3.3 Dynamizing objects in the popup screen

Introduction
The following steps show you how to dynamize the objects of the popup screen.
If you follow the same procedure you used to dynamize the level indicator, the same tag
is output in all instances.
In this case, all popup screens of the valves have the same content.
To display different values for the different valves, you link a structure type element
instead of a specific tag.
For this, you use the notation ".Temperature" as the tag name.
You dynamize the objects in two steps:
• Dynamization of the object property "Text" of the static text "Name":
Dynamic display of the name of the respective valve
• Dynamization of the object property "Output value" of the I/O fields:
Dynamic display of the respective process values of the valves

Requirement
• The "POPUP.Pdl" process picture is open.

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Procedure
1. For the "Static text" object with the "Name" label, dynamize the object property "Text"
with the structure tag element ".Name".

The light bulb turns green. The text has been dynamized.

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2. For the "I/O field" object next to the "Temperature [°C]" label, dynamize the object property
"Output value" with the structure tag element ".Temperature".

The light bulb turns green. The output value has been dynamized.
3. Repeat step 2 for the other two I/O fields:
Use the following structure tag elements for the dynamization:
– ".Pressure"
– ".Flow"

Result
You have dynamized all objects of the popup screen.

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7.4 Configuring a faceplate type

7.4 Configuring a faceplate type

7.4.1 Creating a faceplate type and placing objects

Introduction
The following steps show you how to create a faceplate type and place the needed objects.

Requirement
• The "Graphics Designer" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Select the "New faceplate type" entry in the "File" menu.
A new picture with *.FPT format opens.
2. Select the "Save" entry in the "File" menu.
3. Name the faceplate type "Valve.Fpt".
Confirm with "Save".
The "Valve.Fpt" faceplate type has been created in the "GraCS" project folder.
4. Select the global SVG library "IndustryGraphicLibraryV2.0" in the "SVG library" window.
5. Insert the "HandValve2" object from the "Valves" folder.

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6. Insert an object of "Static Text" type and enter the text "Valve X" as the label.

7. Adapt the position of the objects.

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8. Click in the background so that no object is selected.

The object properties of the process picture are displayed.
9. Set "Picture Width" to the value "160" and "Picture Height" to the value "190".

Result
You have created the "Valve" faceplate type and placed all the needed objects.

Next steps
You link the "Valve_Info" structure type with the "Valve" faceplate type.

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7.4.2 Linking a structure type with a faceplate type

Introduction
The following steps show you how to configure the faceplate type.
You link the faceplate type with the created structure tags and configure the popup screen.

Requirement
• The "Valve.Fpt" faceplate type is open.

Procedure
1. To define the properties of the faceplate type, open the configuration dialog.

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2. On the "Tags" tab, configure the "Valve_Info" structure type as the selected tag.

The structure type has been defined as the interface tag.

You use the interface tags for dynamizing the faceplate type.

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3. Link the "Text" object property with the "Valve_Info.Name" tag.

4. To save the settings, click "Apply" and confirm with "Yes".

Result
You have defined the created structure type as the interface tag and dynamized the text
by assigning a tag.

Next steps
You configure the "POPUP.Pdl" process picture as a popup screen.

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7.4.3 Configuring a popup screen

Introduction
The following steps show you how to configure the popup screen in the faceplate type.

Requirement
• The "Valve.Fpt" faceplate type is open.

Procedure
1. Open the configuration dialog by selecting the "Configure faceplate type" entry
in the "Edit" menu.
2. Configure the "POPUP.Pdl" process picture as a popup screen on the "Popup screen" tab.

3. To save the settings, click "Apply" and confirm with "Yes".

The picture has been configured as a popup screen.

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Result
You have configured the "POPUP.Pdl" picture as a popup screen.
The picture is opened in Runtime when the faceplate instance is clicked.
The associated script is created automatically.

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7.5 Creating a faceplate instance

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert a faceplate instance into a process picture.
For this you drag the structure tags into the process picture using drag-and-drop.

Requirement
• The "Graphics Designer" editor is open.
• The "START.Pdl" process picture is open.

Procedure
1. Right-click on each of the two SVG objects "HandValve2" in the process picture and
select "Delete".
The two SVG objects are deleted.

2. Have the list of all structure instances displayed in the "Tags" selection window.
If the "Tags" window is not displayed, enable the "Tags" entry in the "View" menu
under "Toolbars".

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3. Drag the "Valve1" structure instance into the process picture using drag-and-drop.
Select the "Valve.Fpt" faceplate type.

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The faceplate instance has been placed in the process picture and dynamized with the
structure tags of the "Valve1" structure instance.

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4. Adapt the position and size of the faceplate instance.

5. Repeat steps 3-4 for the "Valve2" structure instance.

Result
You have inserted the structure instances and, as a result, created two faceplate instances
in the process picture.

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7.6 Changing the faceplate type

7.6 Changing the faceplate type

Introduction
This section provides information on how to implement changes with little configuring effort
by using faceplate types.

Principle
The major advantage of using faceplate types is the easy, time-saving implementation
of changes.
If you change the faceplate type, the changes are applied to all instances.
This eliminates the need for time-consuming changes to individual objects.

Configuring in the "Quick_Start" project

The "Valve.Fpt" faceplate type is to additionally represent the valve status using color.
You animate the basic color of the valve using a tag.
Because you configure the animation in the faceplate type, the change is applied
to both valves in the process picture.

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7.6.1 Animating an object property

Introduction
The following steps show you how to animate an object property.
You link the desired property with a tag. The object property changes in Runtime
as a function of the tag value.

Requirement
• The "Valve.Fpt" faceplate type is open.

Procedure
1. Click on the valve object from the SVG library in the faceplate type.
The SVG object is selected and is displayed in the "Object Properties" selection window.
2. Create a new animation that uses a published interface tag.

3. Open the tag selection using "...".

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4. Select the interface tag "Valve_Info.Status" and confirm with "OK".

The animation is controlled by the structure type element ".Status" of the "Valve_Info"
structure type.

5. Select the "Bool" data type.

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6. Add the "BasicColor" property.

7. Select the color green for "True" and red for "False".

8. Save the process picture.

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Result
You have animated the SVG object with the "Valve_Info.Status" interface tag.
The valve is represented in Runtime in green or red depending on the valve status.

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7.7 Testing the project (graphics system - faceplate types)

7.7 Testing the project (graphics system - faceplate types)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to test the expanded "Quick_Start" project using
the WinCC TAG Simulator.
In the expanded "Quick_Start" project, you simulate the values of the structure tags
with the WinCC TAG Simulator.
The WinCC TAG Simulator assigns various values to the structure tag elements.
The structure tag elements have been connected to the I/O fields in the popup screen and
the representation of the valves. The values in the I/O fields and the valve representation
vary in Runtime according to the tag values.

Requirement
• The Runtime properties have been defined.
Follow the procedure described under:
Defining Runtime properties (graphics system - process pictures) (Page 83)

Procedure
1. Open the "QuickStart_Simulation.sim" configuration in the "Tags Simulation" editor.

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2. Open the tag selection dialog and select the "Valve1" and "Valve2" tags
from the list of structure instances.

3. Expand the structure tag elements using the button.

4. Activate all tags in the "Active" column.

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5. Define the following properties for the tags:

Tag name Function Cycle Quality set

Tank_Level Increment 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve2.Name User input 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve2.Status Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve2.Temperature Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve2.Pressure Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve2.Flow Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve1.Name User input 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve1.Status Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve1.Temperature Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve1.Pressure Random 1 0x80 - good - ok
Valve1.Flow Random 1 0x80 - good - ok

6. Save the configuration.

7. Activate WinCC Runtime in the WinCC Explorer using the button.
8. Start the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor.
9. To display the names of the valves, enter the name as the current tag value
for the structure tag elements "Valve1.Name" and "Valve2.Name".

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10.Position the "Tags Simulation" editor and the Runtime window in such a way
that you can monitor both.
Open the popup screen by clicking on one of the two valves and observe
how the various simulation values affect the display.
Observe how the color of the valves changes as a function of the value of the
"Valve(x).Status" tag.

11.Exit the simulation and WinCC Runtime.

Result
You have tested the expanded "Quick_Start" project using the WinCC TAG Simulator.
The test shows the behavior of the project when it is supplied with process values.

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8.1 Archiving and displaying values

Introduction
This section provides information about the archive system and a description of
how to save values in a process value archive.

Principle
With the help of the process value archives you display the development of the
process values over time, for example, as a diagram or as a table. In practice,
such temporal displays are very important as they allow problems to be recognized
very early on.
Having access to individual historic process values is another use of the process value
archives. This application can, for example, help to determine how high certain values
were at a time when production problems were experienced.

Configuring in the "Quick_Start" project

You do not need process values for the "Quick_Start" project.
In this project, you use the internal tag "Tank_Level".
You will simulate the values of these tags by means of the WinCC TAG Simulator.
The simulated tag values are saved in a process value archive.
The sequence of the saved values will be entered into a process picture as a trend diagram
and as a table. For this you will use the controls in the "Controls" selection window of the
"Graphics Designer" editor.
You observe the changes in the simulation values in the configured controls in Runtime.

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8.2 The archive system

8.2 The archive system

Introduction
The archive system is a subsystem of WinCC. This subsystem is used to archive process values
and messages.

Components of the Archiving System

The Archive System for process values is made up of a configuration component
and a Runtime component:
• The configuration component of the archiving system is the "Tag Logging" editor.
In this editor, you can carry out the following tasks (among others):
– Defining acquisition and archiving cycles
– Configuring process value archives and compressed archives
– Defining process values to be archived
• Tag Logging Runtime is the Runtime component of the archiving system.
Tag Logging Runtime has the following tasks:
– Writing process values into the process value archive
– Reading archived process values from the process value archive

Archiving
Process values are stored either in the archive database on the hard disk of the computer
or in the main memory of Tag Logging Runtime.
The archived process values can be compressed to reduce the data volume.

Archiving Times
You control the archiving times via the archiving cycle and events.
You can archive the process values, for example, at constant intervals or only
when the process value changes by a defined amount or percentage.

Licensing
In the WinCC Basic System, it is possible to configure up to 512 logging tags
without additional licensing.

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Archiving in the WinCC system

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8.3 Starting Tag Logging

8.3 Starting Tag Logging

Introduction
The following steps show how to start the editor "Tag Logging".
In the editor "Tag Logging" you will configure a process value archive as well as
the times for the acquisition and archiving cycles.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

Procedure
1. Start the "Tag Logging" editor.
The "Tag Logging" editor opens.

Result
You have opened the "Tag Logging" editor.

Next steps
• In the "Tag Logging" editor, you configure the time for the acquisition and
archiving cycles.
• Using the configured time, you define the time interval at which the tag values
are acquired and archived.
• You create a process value archive.

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8.4 Configuring timers

8.4 Configuring timers

Introduction
In the "Quick_Start" project, you will configure a new time for the acquisition and
archiving cycles.
By this time, you will determine the time interval, in which the tag values are captured
and archived.

Acquisition cycle
The acquisition cycle determines the interval at which the process value of a process tag
is read.
The acquisition cycle starts as soon as WinCC Runtime is activated.

Archiving cycle
Archiving cycles are time intervals in which a process value is stored in the archive database.
• The archiving cycle is always an integer multiple of the configured acquisition cycle.
• The archiving cycle starts either when WinCC Runtime is activated or at a point in time
defined by the user.
The indication of a starting point allows the delayed archiving of the values and
the distribution of the archiving load.
The system may cause a delay between acquisition and archiving up to the length
of one acquisition cycle.
The "Tag Logging" editor will offer you different standard times.
You are not permitted to change these times. If the standard times do not suffice,
configure new times.
When configuring the times, you will define a time basis and a time factor.
The product of the time basis and time factor determines the time distance between
two archivings.
For example, if you define "1 second" as the time base and "5" as the time factor,
the process values are archived every 5 seconds.

Requirement
• "Tag Logging" editor is open.

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8.4 Configuring timers

Procedure
1. Create the new cycle time "Fill_Level".
2. To create a new timer, click the top empty cell and enter a name
in the "Timer name" column of the table pane.

Result
You have configured the new time "Fill_Level" for the acquisition and archiving cycles.
The configured time allows the acquisition and archiving of tag values every 2 seconds.

Next steps
You create a process value archive to archive the values of the internal tags.

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8.5 Creating the process value archive

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to create a process value archive for the
"Quick_Start" project.
The values of the internal tag "Tank_Level" are saved in this archive.
Archives are created in the "Tag Logging" editor.
When creating process value archives, you will also define the tags whose values
are archived.
Once the tag has been defined, Tag Logging creates an archive tag in the
process value archive.
The values to be archived are saved in the archive tags.

Requirement
• The "Tank_Level" tag is configured in tag management.

Procedure
1. In the "Tag Logging" editor navigation area, select the "Process Value Archives" folder.
2. Click in the top empty line in the "Archive name" column of the table area,
and enter the name "Tank_Level_Archive".

3. Select the folder of the archive in the navigation area.

Select the "Tags" tab in the table area.

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4. Click in the top empty line in the "Process tag" column of the table and then
on the "..." button.
The dialog for selecting a tag opens.

5. Select the internal tag "Tank_Level" in the "QuickStart_Tags" tag group.

6. Close the dialog with "OK".

The archive tag has been created. It adopts the name of the internal tag.

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Result
You have created the "Tank_Level_Archive" process value archive.
The values of the internal tag "Tank_Level" are written to this process value archive.

Next steps
You edit the created process value archive.

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8.6 Editing the process value archive

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to edit the process value archive
"Tank_Level_Archive".
The editing of the process value archive is carried out with the following steps:
• Renaming archive tag
• Assigning the configured time "Fill_Level" to the acquisition and archiving cycle
• Defining the saving location for the process value archive
• Defining the size of the process value archive
You select the main memory in the "Quick_Start" project as your saving location
for the process value archive. The main memory provides the process value archives
only in Runtime.
You can define the size of the process value archive by the number of data sets saved
in the process value archive.

Requirement
• You have created the process value archive "Tank_Level_Archive".

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Procedure
1. Click in the table area in the line with the configured archive tag and
open the "Properties" window via the button.
If necessary, enlarge the properties area.
2. Enter "Fill_Level_Archive" as archive tag name.
3. Assign the configured time "Fill_Level" to the acquisition and archiving cycle.

4. Click in the navigation area on the created process value archive "Tank_Level_Archive".

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5. Define the memory location and the size of the process value archive "Tank_Level_Archive".

6. Close the "Tag Logging" editor.

Result
You have edited the process value archive.
The values of the internal tag "Tank_Level" are acquired every two seconds and
are saved in the archive tag "Fill_Level_Archive".
The tag values are archived in the main memory and are only available in Runtime.

Next steps
You configure a trend window in the "Graphics Designer" editor to output the saved values
as a trend in Runtime.

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8.7 Configuring a process screen (archive system)

Introduction
This section offers a description how to configure a process picture,
which displays the output values from the process value archive.

Principle
You configure the process picture in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
For this, you use the following objects:
• WinCC OnlineTrendControl
The "WinCC OnlineTrendControl" object is used to create a trend window.
In the trend window, the values from the process value archive are output as a trend.
• WinCC OnlineTableControl
The "WinCC OnlineTableControl" object is used to create a table window.
In the table window, the values from the process value archive are output as a table.
Each output takes place in Runtime.

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8.7 Configuring a process screen (archive system)

8.7.1 Configuring a trend window

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to configure a trend window.
You will configure the trend window in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
For this, you will create a new process picture.
Insert the object "WinCC OnlineTrendControl" into the process picture.
In the "Quick_Start" project you will connect this object with the archive tag
"Fill_Level_Archive".
Hence, the values saved in the archive tag in Runtime are output as a trend.

Requirement
• You have created the process value archive "Tank_Level_Archive".

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Procedure
1. Create a new process picture named "Tag_Logging.Pdl" and
open it in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Insert the "WinCC OnlineTrendControl" object from the "Controls" window
into the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

The trend window will appear on the work surface in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
The "Properties of WinCC OnlineTrendControl" dialog opens.

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3. Enter "Tank_Level_Trends" as title for the trend window and apply the default settings.

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4. Define the settings for the time axes.

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5. Define the settings for the value axes.

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6. Enter the trend name "Tank_Level" and then click .

The dialog for selecting tags opens.

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7. Select the "Fill_Level_Archive" archive tag in the "Tags" dialog.

To display the tags, you may need to select the "WinCC Tags" option
in the "Data source" area.

8. Select a time axis and a value axis.

9. Click "OK" to close the dialog box and to apply the settings.
10.Save the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

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Alternative procedure
1. Select the line with the archive tags "Fill_Level_Archive" in the table pane
of the "Tag Logging" editor.
Move the mouse to the edge of the selection rectangle.
The cursor changes from a "+" to a cross.
2. Keep the left mouse button pressed while you drag the tag selection to an empty area
of the picture in the Graphics Designer.
3. Release the mouse button in the picture.
A WinCC OnlineTrendControl is created.
The created Control contains a trend with the data connection of the selected archive tag
"Fill_Level_Archive".
4. Continue with steps 3 to 5 and 8, as described in the above procedure.

Result
You have configured the trend window "Tank_Level_Trends".
In Runtime, this window outputs the values that are saved in the "Fill_Level_Archive"
archive tag as a trend.

Next steps
You configure a table window in the "Graphics Designer" editor to output the values
stored in the logging tag as a table in Runtime.

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8.7.2 Configuring a table window

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to configure a table window.
You will configure the table window in the editor "Graphics Designer".
You use the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture for this.
You insert the object "WinCC OnlineTableControl" into the process picture.
In the "Quick_Start" project you will connect this object with the archive tag
"Fill_Level_Archive".
Hence, the values saved in the archive tag in Runtime are output as a table.

Requirement
• You have created the process value archive "Tank_Level_Archive".
• The "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture is open.

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Procedure
1. Insert the "WinCC OnlineTableControl" object into the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

The table window will appear on the work surface in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
The "Properties of WinCC OnlineTableControl" dialog opens.

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2. Enter the name "Tank_Level_Tables" for the table window.

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3. Enter the name "Tank_Level" for the value column and then click .

The dialog for archive tag selection opens.

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4. Select the "Fill_Level_Archive" archive tag in the "Tags" dialog.

To display the tags, you may need to select the "WinCC Tags" option
in the "Data source" area.

5. Click "OK" to close the "Properties of WinCC OnlineTableControl" dialog.

6. Save the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture.
7. Close the Graphics Designer.

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Result
You have configured the table window "Tank_Level_Tables".
In Runtime, this window outputs the values, which are saved
in the "Fill_Level_Archive" archive tag as a table.

Next steps
• You add the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" page to the user-defined menu.
• You define the properties of WinCC Runtime.

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8.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (archive system)

8.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (archive system)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to add the "Tag Logging" menu item to the customized
"Picture Change" menu.
You will link the menu entry "Tag Logging" with the procedure
"ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)".
Enter the name of the process picture that you wish to change to in the field "User data".

Requirement
• The procedure "ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)" has been created.
• The user-defined "Picture Change" menu has been created for the "START.Pdl" and
"SAMPLE.Pdl" process pictures.

Procedure
1. Open the saved configuration "ActivatePicture.mtl" in the "Menus and toolbars" editor.

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2. Create the "Tag Logging" menu command.

3. Configure the "Tag Logging" menu item so that it executes a picture change
to the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" picture.

4. Save the changes in the "Menus and toolbars" editor.

5. Close the "Menus and toolbars" editor.

Result
You have added the "Tag Logging" menu item to the "Picture Change" menu.
You switch to the "START.Pdl", "SAMPLE.Pdl" and "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process pictures
in runtime with the menu items.

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8.9 Defining Runtime properties (archive system)

8.9 Defining Runtime properties (archive system)

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to define the properties for WinCC Runtime.
In this section, you will set up WinCC Runtime so that Tag Logging Runtime is executed
when the project is activated.
You select the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture as the start picture for the runtime window.

Requirement
• The "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture has been created.

Procedure
1. Open the properties of the computer via the shortcut menu in the navigation area
of the "Computer" editor.

The properties of the computer open.

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2. Select the "Tag Logging Runtime" application on the "Startup" tab.

3. Define the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture as the start picture

on the "Graphics Runtime" tab.

Result
You have defined the WinCC Runtime properties. When the "Quick_Start" project is activated,
Tag Logging Runtime is executed and the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture is displayed.

Next steps
You activate and test the "Quick_Start" project.

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8.10 Activating and testing the project (archive system)

8.10 Activating and testing the project (archive system)

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to activate and test configurations
in the "Quick_Start" project.
The WinCC TAG Simulator assigns values to the internal tag "Tank_Level" in Runtime.
These values are acquired every two seconds in the "Quick_Start" project and saved
in the archive tag "Fill_Level_Archive".
Tag Logging Runtime reads the archives values and transfers them to the trend window
and the table window. The values are output as a trend and as a table.

Requirement
• The Runtime properties are defined.

Procedure
1. Open the "QuickStart_Simulation.sim" configuration in the "Tags Simulation" editor.
2. Activate WinCC Runtime in the WinCC Explorer using the button.
3. Start the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor using "Simulation > Start".

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4. Observe the output of the simulation values in the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

5. Stop the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor using "Simulation > Stop".
6. Exit WinCC Runtime using the button in the toolbar.

Result
You have activated the "Quick_Start" project and simulated the values of the
internal tags "Tank_Level".
The value sequence is displayed in the configured trend and table windows.

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Configuring messages 9
Introduction
This section provides information about the alarm logging and a description of
how to configure messages in the "Alarm Logging" editor.

Principle
The alarm logging monitors the processes.
You can configure the following messages in the "Alarm Logging" editor of the alarm system:
• Discrete alarm
Display status changes in the process.
The discrete alarms are triggered by the PLC.
• Analog alarm:
Show limit violations.
The analog alarms are triggered when the set limits are violated.

Configuring in the "Quick_Start" project

In the "Quick_Start" project, you will configure messages to monitor the supply valve and
the fill level of the bioconverter:
• To simulate the statuses of the supply valve, create a new internal tag.
In the "Alarm Logging" editor you will configure discrete alarms for the different statuses
of the supply valve.
A discrete alarm is triggered when a certain bit is set in the tag value.
• You will simulate the fill level of the bioconverter in the "Quick_Start" project
using the values of the internal tag "Tank_Level".
You will set a lower and high limit for the fill level.
If the values of the internal tag "Tank_Level" violate a limit, the corresponding
analog message is triggered and displayed in Runtime.

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9.1 The message system

9.1 The message system

Introduction
The message system is a subsystem of WinCC which is used to monitor the processes.
With certain statuses and changes in the process, the message system generates messages
and outputs them as tables in Runtime.
The messages help you to identify critical situations early so that downtimes can be avoided.

Components of the message system

The message system is made up of a configuration component and a runtime component.
• The configuration component of the message system is the "Alarm Logging" editor.
In the "Alarm Logging" editor, you can mainly execute the following tasks:
– Creating messages
– Preparing messages
– Setting limits
– Displaying message texts and message states
– Defining acknowledgment properties of the messages
– Defining archiving properties of the messages
• Alarm Logging Runtime is the runtime component of the message system.
Alarm Logging Runtime is primarily used to perform the following tasks:
– Executing the defined monitoring
– Controlling the message output
– Managing acknowledgments

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Message system and message archive in the WinCC system

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9.2 Starting Alarm Logging

9.2 Starting Alarm Logging

Introduction
The following steps show how to start the "Alarm Logging" editor.
In the "Alarm Logging" editor you will configure all bit and analog messages
needed for the "Quick_Start" project.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.

Procedure
1. Launch the "Alarm Logging" editor.
The "Alarm Logging" editor opens.

Result
You have opened the "Alarm Logging" editor.

Next steps
In the next steps, you define the message blocks and message classes.

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9.3 Configuring message blocks

Introduction
The following steps show you how to configure message blocks for the messages
in the "Quick_Start" project.
The messages are displayed in a table in Runtime.

Message blocks
Each message is composed of information that is shown in the columns of the table.
These individual pieces of information are referred to as message blocks.
Each message block corresponds to one column in the table.
The message blocks are subdivided into three groups:
• System blocks with system data, for example, date, time, message number and status.
System blocks are predefined.
• User text blocks with explanatory text, for example, text with information on the location
and cause of a fault.
The texts are freely customizable.
• Process value blocks are used to connect the messages with process values, for example,
current fill levels, temperatures or speeds.
You can modify the properties of the message blocks for display in Runtime.
Change the length of the user text blocks used for the "Quick_Start" project.

Requirement
• The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

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Procedure
1. In the navigation area, select the "System blocks" item in the "Message Blocks" folder.
2. Activate the system blocks that are displayed in Runtime:
– "Date"
– "Time"
– "Number"

3. Select the "User text blocks" item in the navigation area and activate the "Message text" and
"Point of error" blocks.
4. Change the text length in the "Number of characters" field either in the table area
or in the "Properties" window:
– Message text: 30 characters
– Point of error: 25 characters

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Result
You have defined the message blocks for the messages in the "Quick_Start" project.

Next steps
You configure three discrete alarms to monitor status changes of the inflow valve.

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9.4 Configuring bit messages

9.4 Configuring bit messages

Introduction
This section provides a description of how to configure discrete alarms in the
"Alarm Logging" editor.

Overview
Each discrete alarm corresponds to the following supply valve status at the bioconverter:
• Valve_open (valve open)
• Valve_closed (valve closed)
• Valve_inop (valve failed)
If the status of the supply valve changes, a corresponding discrete alarm will be triggered
and displayed in Runtime.
You will create a new internal tag to simulate the various statuses of the supply valve.
You will then set this tag as a message tag for the created discrete alarms.
You define the following properties for each discrete alarm:

Message tag The message tag is linked to the status changes in the process.
If a status change takes place in the process, a bit is set in the tag value.
Depending on the tag values, a discrete alarm is triggered.
Message bit The message bit defines which bit triggers a discrete alarm.
Message text The message text describes the status of the supply valve, for example,
"Valve open" in the "Quick_Start" project.
Fault location The fault location describes the location of the status change.

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9.4.1 Creating bit messages

Introduction
The following steps show how to create discrete alarms in the "Alarm Logging" editor.
For the "Quick_Start" project, create three discrete alarms in the message class "Error"
and the message type "Alarm".

Requirement
• The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
• You have created a new internal tag in Tag Management.
– Name: "Inflow_Valve"
– Data type: "Unsigned 16-bit value"
Follow the procedure described under: Creating internal tags (Page 39)

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Procedure
1. In the "Messages" folder of the navigation area, select the "Alarm" message type
under "Error".
You can change the displayed language of message class and message type.
Select the desired language in the "View > Input language" menu.
To edit the properties of the messages, open the "Properties" window.
2. In the table area, select the first row and define the following properties:
– Message tag: "Inflow_Valve"
– Message bit: 2
– Message text: "Valve_open"
– Point of error: "Valve"

3. Create two additional discrete alarms:

Click in the "Number" column of the next available row in the table area for each.
Enter a number for the message.

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4. In the "Properties - Message" area, define the following properties for the second
discrete alarm:
– Message tag: "Inflow_Valve"
– Message bit: 3
– Message text: "Valve_closed"
– Point of error: "Valve"
5. You define the following properties for the third discrete alarm:
– Message tag: "Inflow_Valve"
– Message bit: 4
– Message text: "Valve_inop"
– Point of error: "Valve"

Result
You have defined the discrete alarms with the properties for the "Quick_Start" project.
The created discrete alarms are displayed in the table window of the "Alarm Logging" editor.
The output of the discrete alarms in Runtime is controlled with the configuration of the
messages. If, for example, the second bit from the right is set in the value of the internal tag
"Inflow_Valve", the discrete alarm "Valve_open" is triggered.

Next steps
You configure two analog alarms to monitor the behavior of the internal tag "Tank_Level".

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9.5 Configuring analog messages

Introduction
This chapter provides a description of how to configure analog messages in the
"Alarm Logging" editor.

Overview
The analog alarms show limit violations in Runtime.
The configuration of the analog messages in the "Quick_Start" project consist of the
following steps:
1. Defining the tag to be monitored
Define the tag to be monitored under "Limit value monitoring" in "Alarm Logging".
2. Setting limits
In the "Quick_Start" project you will monitor the behavior of the internal tag "Tank_Level".
The tag values simulate the fill level of the bioconverter.
Define a high and a low limit value for the tag.
The "Alarm Logging" editor generates an analog message for each limit value defined:
• The high limit will define the maximum water volume that is permitted
in the bioconverter.
If the high limit is violated, the bioconverter is overfilled.
The corresponding analog message is displayed in Runtime.
• The low limit defines the minimum water volume that should be in the bioconverter.
If the low limit is violated, the fill level of the bioconverter has fallen to a dangerous level.
The corresponding analog message is displayed in Runtime.

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9.5.1 Setting limit values

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to define the limit values for the internal tag
"Tank_Level".
Any number of limits can be set for a tag.
The "Alarm Logging" editor will create an analog message for each defined limit value.
In the "Quick_Start" project you will define a upper and low limit value for the internal tag
"Tank_Level".

Requirement
• The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.
• The internal tag "Tank_Level" is configured.

Procedure
1. In the navigation area, select the "Limit monitoring" folder.
2. Click in the top empty line of the "Tag" column in the table area.
Select the internal tag "Tank_Level".

3. To open the entry, click the arrow in front of the tag name.
Select the "High limit" entry under the tag in the table pane.

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4. Enter the properties for the high limit value in the "Properties - Limit value" area
or in the table area.
Use a new, unused message number, e.g. "4".

5. To enter the data for the second limit, select the "Low limit" entry in the next line
under the tag.
6. Enter the properties for the low limit value in the "Properties - Limit value" area
or in the table area.
Use a new, unused message number, e.g. "5".

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Result
You have defined the limit values for the internal tag "Tank_Level".
• If the tag value is greater than 90, the analog message "High limit value" is triggered
and displayed in Runtime.
This message indicates that the bioconverter fill level is exceeded.
• If the tag value is less than 10, the analog message "Low limit value" is triggered
and displayed in Runtime.
This message indicates that the fill level is below the permitted level.
Select the "Limit monitoring" entry in the navigation pane and click on the "Messages" tab
to obtain an overview of the analog alarms created.

Next steps
You configure the display of limit violations in the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

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9.5.2 Displaying messages in trend windows

Introduction
The following steps show you how to display the messages of the limit monitoring
as a tooltip in a WinCC OnlineTrendControl.
You create a trend for the "Tank Level" tag and enable the "Show Alarms" option.
The assigned messages are displayed as symbols and tooltips for trend values with
limit violation in Runtime.

Requirement
• The "Tag_Logging.Pdl" picture is open in the Graphics Designer.
• You have configured the limit monitoring in Alarm Logging.
Follow the procedure described under: Setting limits (Page 185)

Procedure
1. Select the WinCC OnlineTrendControl "Tank_Level_Trends".
2. Open the "Properties of WinCC Online Trend Control" configuration dialog
using the shortcut menu.

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3. Create the "Limit_Warning" trend for internal tag "Tank_Level" and

select the "Show Alarms" option.
To display the tags in the tag selection dialog, you may need to
select the "WinCC Tags" option in the "Data source" area.

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4. Configure a color change of the trend for the low limit.

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If you want to apply predefined colors, select the color palette

in the "Color Selection" dialog.

5. Configure a color change of the trend for the high limit and
for values with uncertain status.

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Result
You have configured the "Limit_Warning" trend for internal tag "Tank_Level" and
linked it to the limit monitoring.
A limit violation is displayed in Runtime:
• A red symbol indicates that a limit has been violated.
• The tooltip shows the message text of the message.
• The trend changes color.
• When the value is back within the limits, the symbol turns green.
The message may continue to be displayed.

Next steps
You define the colors for displaying the message statuses in Runtime.

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9.6 Defining the color of the message statuses

Introduction
The following steps show you how to define the display colors for the different
message statuses.
A distinction is made between three basic types of message status in WinCC:
• A message "came in" as long as the cause for the message exists.
• A message "went out" as soon as the cause for the message no longer exists.
• A message is "acknowledged" when the message is acknowledged by the user.
The current status of each message is displayed in different colors in Runtime.
The display color of the individual message statuses is determined in the
"Alarm Logging" Editor.
In the "Quick_Start" project, you define the different font colors and background colors
for the three basic statuses.
This definition is applicable to the entire message type "Alarm" of the message class "Error".
This applies the settings to all messages in the "Quick_Start" project.

Requirement
• The "Alarm Logging" editor is open.

Procedure
1. Under "Error" in the navigation area, select the folder for the "Alarm" message type.
2. Edit the colors of the message type in the "Properties" area.

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3. Define the following properties for the message status "came in":
– Font color: White
– Background color: Red
4. Define the following for the message status "went out":
– Font color: White
– Background color: Green
5. Define the following for the message status "acknowledged":
– Font color: White
– Background color: Blue
6. Close the "Alarm Logging" editor.

Result
You have now defined the display color of the message statuses "came in", "went out" and
"acknowledged".
In Runtime, the messages are displayed in the respective colors depending on their status.

Next steps
You configure a process picture in the "Graphics Designer" editor to output the messages
in a table in Runtime.

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9.7 Configuring a process screen (message system)

Introduction
This section offers a description how to configure a process picture, which displays
the output of the messages.

Principle
You configure the process picture in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
For this, you use the following objects:
• WinCC AlarmControl
The "WinCC AlarmControl" object is used for creating an alarm window.
The messages are displayed in a table in the alarm window.
The output takes place in Runtime.
• Slider object
You use the slider object in the "Quick_Start" project to transfer analog values
to the internal tag "Tank_Level".
If the transferred values violate a defined limit value, the corresponding analog alarm
is triggered.
• I/O field
You connect the "I/O field" object with the internal tag "Inflow_Valve" in the
"Quick_Start" project.
You enter binary values into the I/O field. These values are assigned to the tag
"Inflow_Valve" in Runtime.
If a certain bit is set in the tag value, the corresponding discrete alarm is triggered.

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9.7.1 Configuring an alarm message window

Introduction
The following steps show you how to configure a message window.
You configure the message window in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
For this, you will create a new process picture. You insert the "WinCC AlarmControl" object
in the process picture. This object is pre-configured for the display of the messages.
The properties of the WinCC AlarmControl are used to define which message blocks
are to be displayed as columns in the message window.
In Runtime, the messages consist of these message blocks.

Procedure
1. Create a new process picture named "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" and open it
in the "Graphics Designer" editor.
2. Insert the "WinCC AlarmControl" object into the process picture.

The "WinCC AlarmControl Properties" dialog opens.

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3. Specify the name of the message window.

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4. Click on the "Message blocks" tab.

Make sure that the "Apply project settings" setting is activated.
This applies the configuration of the message blocks from Alarm Logging.

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5. Click on the "Message lists" tab.

Move the user text blocks "Message text" and "Point of error"
to the "Selected message blocks" field.

The user text blocks "Message text" and "Point of error" are displayed
in the message window.
6. Close the dialog with "OK".
Enlarge the message window if required.

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Result
You have configured the "Wastewater Treatment" message window.
The messages you have configured for the "Quick_Start" project are displayed in this window
during Runtime.
The triggering of messages depends on the values of the internal tags "Tank_Level" and
"Inflow_Valve". The display color of the messages changes according to the message status.
The contents of the messages consist of the following message blocks in the
message window:
• System blocks: Date, time and number
• User text blocks: Message text and Point of error

Next steps
You configure a slider object to supply the internal tag "Tank_Level" with analog values.

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9.7.2 Inserting and dynamizing a slider object

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert and dynamize a slider object.
The slider object is used for displaying and changing tag values. The connection of the
slider object to a process tag allows the control of the automation system.
You insert the slider object into the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture in the
"Quick_Start" project.
You dynamize the slider object via a connection to the internal tag "Tank_Level".
When you use the slider object in Runtime, the internal tag "Tank_Level" is assigned a value.
If the assigned value violates one of the defined limits, the corresponding analog alarm
is displayed in the alarm window.
You change the preset properties of the slider object for the "Quick_Start" project:
In the "Object Properties" window, you enter a new name for the slider object and
define its height.

Requirement
• The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is open.
• The internal tag "Tank_Level" has been created.

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Procedure
1. Insert a slider object into the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

The "Slider Configuration" dialog opens.

2. Link the slider object to the internal tag "Tank_Level".

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3. Switch to the "Object properties" window.

Enter "Water_Tank" as name for the slider object.

4. Define "400" as the height of the slider object.

Result
You have inserted the slider object "Water_Tank" and made it dynamic.
The dynamization of the slider object allows the transfer of values to the internal tag
"Tank_Level". As limit value monitoring is configured for this tag, the corresponding message
is triggered when a set value is violated.

Next steps
You insert a scale to facilitate the setting of values with the slider object.

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9.7.3 Inserting a scale

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert a scale from the library of the
"Graphics Designer" editor.
In the "Quick_Start" project, you insert the scale into the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture.
By means of this scale, you display the values that the slider object "Water_Tank" can assume.
The lines on the scale correspond to the operating steps of the slider object.

Requirement
• The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is open.
• The slider object "Water_Tank" has been inserted.

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Procedure
1. Switch to the Global library.
2. Insert scale "02".

The scale is displayed in the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

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3. Switch to "Object properties".

Define "400" as the height of the scale.

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4. Set "16" as the font size for the scale.

5. Align the scale and the slider object to the same horizontal line.

Result
You have inserted a scale into the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture.
You set the values of the slider object "Water_Tank" in Runtime with this scale.

Next steps
You insert an I/O field to supply the internal tag "Inflow_Valve" with binary values.

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9.7.4 Inserting and dynamizing an I/O field (message system)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to insert and dynamize an I/O field.
You insert the I/O field into the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture in the
"Quick_Start" project.
You dynamize the I/O field via a connection to the internal tag "Inflow_Valve".
As statuses are saved in this tag, you define a binary output format of the values
for the I/O field.
The I/O field is used to transmit binary values to the internal "Inflow_Valve" tag in Runtime.

Requirement
• The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is open.
• The internal tag "Inflow_Valve" has been created.

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Procedure
1. To insert the "I/O Field" smart object, click on the object in the "Standard" window and then
on the process picture.

The "I/O Field Configuration" dialog opens.

2. Link the I/O field with the internal tag "Inflow_Valve".

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3. Switch to the "Object properties" window.

Enter "Valve" as the name of the I/O field.

4. Define the following font properties of the I/O field:

– Font size: 28
– Bold: Yes
– X Alignment: right
– Y Alignment: centered

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5. Define "Binary" as the output format of the I/O field.

6. Increase the number of positions from 6 to 8 for the "Output format" property: "11111111".

7. Enlarge the I/O field and save the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture.
8. Close the "Graphics Designer".

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Result
You have configured the I/O field "Valve".
Enter binary values in the configured I/O field. These values are transmitted to the
internal tag "Inflow_Valve".
If a specific bit is set in the tag value, the corresponding discrete alarm is triggered and
displayed in the message window. The discrete alarm "Valve_closed" is triggered,
for example, when the second bit is set in the tag value.

Next steps
• You add the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" page to the user-defined menu.
• You define the properties of WinCC Runtime.

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9.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (message system)

9.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (message system)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to add the "Alarm Logging" menu item to the customized
"Picture Change" menu.
You connect the "Alarm Logging" menu entry with the "ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)"
procedure.
Enter the name of the process picture that you wish to change to in the field "User data".

Requirement
• The procedure "ActivatePicture(ByVal PictureName)" has been created.
• The user-defined "Picture Change" menu has been created for the "START.Pdl",
"SAMPLE.Pdl" and "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process pictures.

Procedure
1. Open the saved configuration "ActivatePicture.mtl" in the "Menus and toolbars" editor.
2. Create the "Alarm Logging" menu command.

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9.8 Customizing the user-defined menu (message system)

3. Configure the "Alarm Logging" menu command to change

to the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" picture.

4. Save the changes in the "Menus and toolbars" editor.

5. Close the "Menus and toolbars" editor.

Result
You have added the "Alarm Logging" menu item to the "Picture Change" menu.
You use the menu items in Runtime to switch to the "START.Pdl", "SAMPLE.Pdl",
"Tag_Logging.Pdl" and "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process pictures.

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9.9 Defining Runtime properties (message system)

9.9 Defining Runtime properties (message system)

Introduction
The following steps will show you how to define the properties for WinCC Runtime.
In this section, you will set up WinCC Runtime so that Alarm Logging Runtime is executed
when the project is activated.
Set the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture as the start picture for the runtime window.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.
• The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture has been created.

Procedure
1. Open the "Computer" editor.

The "Computer" editor opens in the WinCC Configuration Studio.

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Configuring messages
9.9 Defining Runtime properties (message system)

2. Select the computer name in the navigation area.

Activate the "Alarm Logging Runtime" application
on the "Processes when starting WinCC Runtime" tab.

3. Set the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture as the start picture for the runtime window
under "Graphics" in the "Properties - Computer" area.

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 Configuring messages
9.9 Defining Runtime properties (message system)

Result
You have defined the WinCC Runtime properties.
When the "Quick_Start" project is activated, Tag Logging Runtime is executed and the
"Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is displayed.

Next steps
You activate the "Quick_Start" project.

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Configuring messages
9.10 Activating the project (message system)

9.10 Activating the project (message system)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to activate the "Quick_Start" project and operate
the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture in Runtime.
When activating the "Quick_Start" project, WinCC Runtime is started.
The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is displayed as the start picture.

Message window in Runtime

You operate and observe the message window in Runtime.
Use the message window via the buttons in the toolbar:
The button allows the display of the message list.
The message list contains the currently pending messages.
The display color of a message in the message window changes depending on
the message status.

Requirement
• The "Quick_Start" project is open.
• The Runtime properties are defined.

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9.10 Activating the project (message system)

Procedure
1. Activate the "Quick_Start" project using the toolbar button in WinCC Explorer.
WinCC Runtime is started.
The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is displayed in the Runtime window.
2. Move the controller of the "Water_Tank" slider object.

The internal tag "Tank_Level" is assigned a value corresponding to the slider position.
If this value falls below the configured low limit (10), the analog message
"Low limit value" is triggered.
If the high limit (90) is violated, the analog message "High limit value" is triggered.

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Configuring messages
9.10 Activating the project (message system)

3. Enter the value "100" in the "Valve" I/O field and confirm the entry with <Return>.

The second bit in the tag value is set.

The discrete alarm "Valve_open" is displayed.
4. Enter the value "1000" in the I/O field and confirm the entry with <Return>.
The third bit in the tag value is set.
The discrete alarm "Valve_closed" is displayed.
5. Enter the value "10000" in the I/O field and confirm the entry with <Return>.
The fourth bit in the tag value is set.
The discrete alarm "Valve_inop" is displayed.
6. Click the button in the toolbar of the message window
to disable the "Autoscroll" function.
In this way, you can specifically select a message.

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 Configuring messages
9.10 Activating the project (message system)

7. Select the analog alarm "High limit" and acknowledge the analog alarm.
The display color of the message status changes.

Result
You have activated the "Quick_Start" project.
The "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture is displayed as the start picture of the project.
The internal tags "Tank_Level" and "Inflow_Valve" are supplied with values by manual input.
These tags are monitored by the alarm logging.
Depending on the tag values, the corresponding messages are triggered and displayed
in the alarm window.

Next steps
You use the "Tags Simulation" editor to automatically supply the internal tags "Tank_Level"
and "Inflow_Valve" with values.

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Configuring messages
9.11 Testing the project (message system)

9.11 Testing the project (message system)

Introduction
The following steps show you how to test the "Quick_Start" project by means of the
WinCC TAG Simulator.
The WinCC TAG Simulator assigns values to the internal tags "Tank_Level" and
"Inflow_Valve" in Runtime.
Since monitoring has been configured for these tags, messages are triggered
when the tag value reaches the defined limits.
The messages are displayed in the message window.
The message statuses are marked by different display colors.

Requirement
• The Runtime properties are defined.

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 Configuring messages
9.11 Testing the project (message system)

Procedure
1. Open the "QuickStart_Simulation.sim" configuration in the "Tags Simulation" editor.
2. Open the tag selection dialog and select the internal tag "Inflow_Valve"
from the tag group "QuickStart_Tags".

3. Select the simulation type and define the properties of the simulation type.

4. Save the configuration using the "File > Save" command in the menu bar.
5. Activate WinCC Runtime in the WinCC Explorer using the button.
6. Start the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor using "Simulation > Start".
7. Observe the output of the simulation values in the "Alarm_Logging.Pdl" process picture.
Observe how the different simulation values affect the message window.

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9.11 Testing the project (message system)

8. Switch to the "Tag_Logging.Pdl" process picture.

9. Observe the extended display in the WinCC OnlineTrendControl.

10.Stop the simulation in the "Tags Simulation" editor using "Simulation > Stop".
11.Exit WinCC Runtime using the button in the toolbar.

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9.11 Testing the project (message system)

Result
You have tested "Quick_Start" project by means of the WinCC TAG Simulator.
The test shows the behavior of the alarm logging when the monitored tags are
continuously supplied with values.
The WinCC OnlineTrendControl displays the second trend for the "Inflow_Valve" tag.
Clicking on the exclamation mark displays the triggered messages for this tag
in the form of a tooltip.

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9.11 Testing the project (message system)

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Glossary

Acquisition cycles
The acquisition cycle determines the interval at which the process value of a process tag
is read.
The acquisition cycle starts as soon as WinCC Runtime is activated.

Alarm Logging
The "Alarm_Logging" editor is the configuration component of the alarm logging.
This editor is used to configure messages.

Alarm Logging Runtime

Alarm Logging Runtime is the runtime component of the alarm logging.
Alarm Logging Runtime is primarily used to perform the following tasks:
• Executing the defined monitoring
• Controlling the message output
• Administering acknowledgments

Analog alarm
An analog alarm indicates when a limit has been exceeded or fallen below.
An analog alarm is triggered when a defined limit is exceeded or fallen below.

Animation
In an animation, you combine the dynamization of multiple object properties with a tag
or script.
This allows you to assign several property changes to a tag value or value range,
e.g. to have an object increase in size and flash simultaneously.

Archive tag
The values to be archived are saved in the archive tags.

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Glossary

Archiving cycles
Archiving cycles are time intervals in which a process value is stored in the archive database.
The archiving cycle is always an integer multiple of the set acquisition cycle.
The archiving cycle starts either when WinCC Runtime is activated or at a point in time
defined by the user. The indication of a starting point allows the delayed archiving
of the values and the distribution of the archiving load.

Button
The button enables process operation.
A button is used, for example, for acknowledging messages or for navigation in runtime.

Channel
The channels are specialized communication drivers.
They allow the communication between WinCC and the automation system.
Via the channels, the process tags in WinCC are supplied with process values from the
automation system.

Channel unit
A channel unit forms the interface to exactly one underlying hardware driver and therefore
to exactly one communications processor in the PC.
This channel unit is then used to access to a certain type of automation system.

Configuration Software of WinCC

The configuration software is part of WinCC.
At the heart of the configuration software are WinCC Explorer and
WinCC Configuration Studio.

Configuration Studio
"WinCC Configuration Studio" contains most of the editors you need to configure WinCC,
such as the "Tag Management", "Alarm Logging" and "Tag Logging" editors.

Connection
A connection describes the interface to an individual, defined automation system.
The data exchange takes place in Runtime via the connections.
The connections are configured under the channel units.

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 Glossary

Direct tag connection

With a direct tag connection, you are connecting one tag with a dynamic object of the
process picture.
If the tag takes on a value in runtime, this value is transferred directly to the dynamic object.
The dynamic display of the object changes in Runtime according to the tag value.

Discrete alarm
The discrete alarms show status changes in the process and are initiated by the PLC.

Display color of the messages

The display color identifies the current status of a message.
The display colors for individual messages are determined in the "Alarm Logging" Editor.

Dynamic objects
Dynamic objects will change in accordance with the individual process values.
A bar is an example of a dynamic object. The length of the bar will depend on the current
temperature value.

Faceplate type / Faceplate instance

Faceplate types are special process pictures that you create as reusable templates and
use as faceplate instances in the process pictures.
You dynamize the objects in the faceplate types with interface tags or structure tags.
Changes in the faceplate type are automatically applied to all faceplate instances.
The faceplate types are configured in the "Graphics Designer" editor.

Graphics Designer
The "Graphics Designer" editor is a configuration component of the graphics system.
This editor is used to configure process pictures.

Graphics Runtime
Graphics Runtime is the runtime component of the graphics system.
Graphics Runtime displays the pictures in Runtime and manages all inputs and outputs
when the project is activated.

I/O field
The I/O field is an input/output field that is used to display and change tag values.

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Glossary

Internal tag
The internal tags do not have a process link and only carry values within WinCC.

Libraries of the "Graphics Designer" editor

The libraries of the "Graphics Designer" editor are a versatile tool to store and manage
graphic objects.
In the symbol library, you manage customized objects and controls that you use
to create process pictures.
In the SVG library, you manage SVG objects.
The libraries are split into two areas:
• Global Library
• Project Library

Limit monitoring
The limit value monitoring is an add-in to WinCC.
The limit value monitoring allows you to set any number of limit values for a tag.
If one of these limit values is violated, a corresponding message will be triggered and
displayed in Runtime.

Linear Scaling
When using linear scaling, you can map the value range of a process tag to a certain
value range of a process tag in WinCC.
The process value itself is not modified.

Main memory
The main memory of a computer is the memory, in which data objects are saved and
from which they can be retrieved at a later time.
The main memory is also called the working memory.

Message bit
With the property "Message bit", you can define when a discrete alarm is triggered.

Message blocks
The content of a message consists of message blocks.
Each message block corresponds to one column in the tabular display in
WinCC Alarm Control.

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 Glossary

Message classes
A message class contains messages with similar behavior.
The message classes allow a central management of individual messages.

Message report
All messages in the current message list in the message window are documented
in the message report.

Message tag
The message tag is linked to the status changes in the process.
If a status change takes place in the process, a bit is set in the tag value.
Depending on the tag values, a discrete alarm is triggered.

Operable objects
Controllable objects allow the operator to have an active influence on the process.
These include buttons, slider objects, or I/O fields used for entering certain
process parameters (input/output field).

Page layout
In the page layouts you configure the external appearance and data supply for output
of a report.

Print job
Print jobs put out project documentation and Runtime documentation.
In the print jobs you configure the output medium, how much is to be printed,
the time at which printing is to start, and other output parameters.

Process picture
The process pictures are main elements of a project.
They represent a process and allow the operation and observation of this process.
You can use the "Graphics Designer" editor to configure the process pictures.

Process tag
Process tags form the link for data exchange between WinCC and the automation systems.
Each process tag in WinCC corresponds to a certain process value in the memory
of one of the connected automation systems.

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Glossary

Process value archive

The process value archive is an archive where process values from the automation system
are stored.

Process Value Blocks

The process value blocks are used to connect the messages with process values, for example,
current fill levels, temperatures or speeds.

Process values
The process values are the values supplied by the automation system.

Project
The project is the basis for the configuration of a user interface in WinCC.
Within the project you will create and edit all objects that you will need to operate and
observe the processes.

Report Designer
The "Graphics Designer" editor is the configuration component of the reporting system.
This editor is used to configure page and line layouts as well as to configure print jobs.

Report Runtime
Report Runtime is the runtime component of the reporting system.
The report Runtime fetches the data to be documented from the archives or controls,
and controls the print output.

Runtime
If this option is activated, the project is in Runtime.

Single-User Project
A "Single-user project" only runs on one PC. Other computers cannot access this project.
The project runs on a computer that serves as the server for data processing and
as an operator station.

Slider object
The slider object is used for displaying and changing tag values.
The slider object is made dynamic via the connection to a tag. The connection of the
slider object to a process tag allows the control of the automation system.

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 Glossary

Start picture
The start picture is the process picture that is displayed when a project is activated
in the Runtime window.

Static objects
Static objects remain unchanged in Runtime.
These objects include rectangles, circles, lines or connectors.

Static text
The object "Static text" is a static object that serves for the marking of the displayed
processes or content.

Structure tag / Structure type

A structure type denotes a scheme that is used in WinCC to create a specific compilation
of tags.
The structure tag is a tag that is linked with a structure type.
With the help of structure types, you create multiple tags as structure tag elements
simultaneously in one step. In so doing, you can create internal tags and process tags.
You can also read out tag structures directly from a control system and import them
into WinCC Tag Management.

System blocks
The system blocks belong to the message blocks.
They contain system data, for example, date, time, message number and status.
System blocks are predefined.

Tag group
Tag groups are components of Tag Management.
Tag groups are used to organize tags in a clear structure.

Tag Logging
The "Tag Logging" editor is the configuration component of the archive system.
This editor is used to configure archives.

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Glossary

Tag Logging Runtime

Tag Logging Runtime is the runtime component of the Archiving System.
Tag Logging Runtime is primarily used to perform the following tasks:
• Writing process values into the process value archive
• Reading archived process values from the process value archive

Tag Management
Under the component "Tag management", the communication between WinCC and the
automation system is configured.
In "Tag management", all tags and channels are created and managed.

Times for the acquisition and archiving cycles

The times for the acquisition and archiving cycles determine the time interval
between two archivings.

Update cycle
The updating cycle determines the time interval in which the display is updated in runtime.

User text blocks

The user text blocks belong to the message blocks.
The user text blocks contain explanatory texts, e.g. with information on the location and
+cause of an error.
The texts in the user text blocks are freely customizable.
The length of a user text block determines the number of characters that can be entered
into this block. The maximum string length is 255 characters.

WinCC AlarmControl
The "WinCC AlarmControl" object is a message window used to display message events.

WinCC Explorer
WinCC Explorer forms the core of the Configuration software of WinCC.
The overall project structure is displayed and the project is managed in WinCC Explorer.

WinCC OnlineTableControl
The "WinCC OnlineTableControl" object is used as a table window to display the
process values from a process value archive.

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 Glossary

WinCC OnlineTrendControl
The "WinCC OnlineTrendControl" object is used as a trend window to display the
process values from a process value archive.

WinCC Runtime
WinCC Runtime runs the project in process mode.
WinCC Runtime enables operator control and monitoring of the processes.

WinCC TAG Simulator

The WinCC TAG Simulator allows testing of a project which is still in the development stage.
Use the "Tag Simulation" editor to configure and activate the simulation.

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Glossary

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Index

A C
Acknowledging, 218 Channel, 21
Message, 218 Inserting, 24
Acquisition cycle, 143 SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500 channel, 24
Assigning time, 148 Channel unit, 21, 28
Configuring Time, 143 Inserting, 24
Activate, 87 MPI, 24
Alarm Logging Runtime, 215 Color, 193
Graphics Runtime, 83 Define color of the message statuses, 193
Linear Scaling, 37 Communication, 19
Project, 87, 170, 218 Channel, 21, 24
Tag Logging Runtime, 168 Channel unit, 21, 24
Window Attributes, 83 configuring, 19
Addressing, 31 Connection, 21, 28
Process tag, 31 Process tag, 22, 31
Alarm logging, 173 Communication driver, 21
Alarm Logging, 174 SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500 channel, 24
start, 176 Components, 13
Alarm Logging Runtime, 174 Archive system, 140
Activate, 215 Graphics system, 44
Alarm window, 196 Message system, 174
configuring, 196 WinCC, 13
WinCC AlarmControl, 196 Configuration component, 44, 140, 174
Alarm_Logging.Pdl, 196 Archive system, 140
Analog alarm, 173 Graphics system, 44
configuring, 184 Message system, 174
Displaying in Runtime, 188 Configuration software, 13
Setting limits, 185 WinCC, 13
Archive, 145 Configuring, 19, 49, 151
Process value archive, 139, 145 Alarm window, 196
Archive system, 140 Communication, 19
Tag Logging, 140 Messages, 173, 180, 184
Tag Logging Runtime, 140 Process picture, 49, 151, 195
Archive tag, 145 Process value archive, 145, 148
creating, 145 Table window, 160
Renaming, 148 Times for the acquisition and archiving cycles, 143
Archiving, 139 Trend window, 152
Values, 139 Connection, 21, 28
Archiving cycle, 143 creating, 28
Assigning time, 148 Control, 49
Configuring Time, 143 WinCC AlarmControl, 195, 196
WinCC OnlineTableControl, 151, 160
WinCC OnlineTrendControl, 151, 152

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Index

Creating, 28, 31, 39, 152 F

Alarm window, 196
Faceplate instance
Analog alarm, 185
Creating, 126
Connection, 28
Using, 126
Discrete alarm, 181
Faceplate type
Internal tag, 39
changing, 130
Process picture, 45
Configuring, 103, 118, 121, 124, 130
Process tag, 31
creating, 103, 118
Process value archive, 145
Inserting objects, 103
Project, 15, 16
Popup screen, 110, 112, 115, 124
Table window, 160
Font size, 57
Tag group, 31
changing, 57, 66, 204
Timer, 143
changing
Trend window, 152

G
D
Graphics Designer, 44, 49
Data exchange, 22
Configuring the Process Pictures, 43
Process tag, 22
Library, 49
Data type, 31, 39
Object palette, 43
Process tag, 31
Graphics Runtime, 44
Signed 16-bit value, 31
Activate, 83
Unsigned 16-bit value, 39
Graphics system, 44
Discrete alarm, 180
Graphics Designer, 44
creating, 181
Graphics Runtime, 44
Display color, 193
Define color of the message statuses, 193
Display elements, 66, 139, 201
H
Values, 66, 139, 201
Documentation, 139 Hold, 170
Dynamic objects, 43
Dynamizing, 61, 62
I/O field, 66, 208 I
Slider object, 201
I/O field, 61, 66, 195
Defining font properties, 208
Defining output format, 66, 208
E
Defining update, 66
Edit, 49 Dynamizing, 66, 208
Process picture, 49, 60 Inserting, 66, 208
Process value archive, 148 Limiting the input, 66
Static text, 57 Icons, 11
Editor, 13, 22, 44 Illustration, 50
Alarm Logging, 13, 176 Scale, 204
Graphics Designer, 44, 49 Internal tag, 22
Report Designer, 13 creating, 39
Tag Logging, 140, 142 Data type, 39
Tag Management, 22 Structure type, 105, 108

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 Index

L Standard objects, 49
Static objects, 43
Library, 49, 50
Static text, 57
Global Library, 50
WinCC AlarmControl, 195
opening, 50
WinCC OnlineTableControl, 151, 160
Project Library, 50
WinCC OnlineTrendControl, 151, 152
Limit monitoring, 184
Windows objects, 49
Displaying messages in Runtime, 188
Object palette, 49
Setting limits, 185
Controls, 49
Limit value, 185
Smart objects, 49
defining, 185
Standard objects, 49
High limit value, 185
Windows objects, 49
Low limit, 185
Object Properties, 62, 66, 201, 204
Linear Scaling, 37
Object property
Example, 37
Animating, 131
Dynamizing, 115, 131
Open, 16, 45
M
Library, 50
Message, 173 Process picture, 45, 60
acknowledge, 218 Project, 16
Analog alarm, 173
configuring, 173
Define color of the message statuses, 193 P
Discrete alarm, 173
Paste, 24
Limit monitoring, 184
Channel, 24
Message status, 193
Channel unit, 24
Save, 185
I/O field, 66, 208
Message block, 177
Objects from the library, 50
Activate display, 196
Scale, 204
defining, 177
SIMATIC S7-1200, S7-1500 channel, 24
Process value block, 177
Slider object, 201
System block, 177
Static text, 57
User text block, 177
WinCC AlarmControl, 196
Message class, 177
WinCC OnlineTableControl, 160
defining, 177
WinCC OnlineTrendControl, 152
Message list, 218
Popup screen
Message status, 181, 193
creating, 110, 112, 115
Message system, 174
Using in faceplate types, 110, 112, 115, 124
Alarm Logging, 174
Process, 13
Alarm Logging Runtime, 174
Monitoring, 13, 173
MPI, 24, 28
Operating, 13, 19, 21, 22
visualizing, 13, 43, 44
Process picture, 43
O
Alarm_Logging.Pdl, 196
Object, 43, 44, 50 configuring, 151, 195
Dynamic objects, 43 Configuring, 43
I/O field, 195, 208 creating, 45
Inserting, 49 Dynamizing, 61
Operable objects, 43 Edit, 49, 60
Scale, 204 Renaming, 45
Slider object, 195, 201 SAMPLE.Pdl, 45
Smart objects, 49 Save, 57, 60

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Index

START.Pdl, 45 S
Tag_Logging.Pdl, 152
S7-1200, S7-1500 channel, 24
Process tag, 22
SAMPLE.Pdl, 45, 60
Addressing, 31
creating, 45
creating, 31
Edit, 60
Data type, 31
Save, 60
Scaling, 37
Messages, 185
Type Conversion, 31
Process picture, 57, 60
Process value, 19, 22, 139
Process value archive, 148
archiving, 139, 143
Scale, 37, 204
Entry, 143
Define size, 204
simulate, 90, 135, 170, 222
Defining the font size, 204
window, 139
Inserting, 204
Process value archive, 139
Process tag, 37
creating, 145
Signed 16-bit value, 31
Define memory location, 148
Simulation, 90, 135
Define size, 148
Simulation type, 90, 135, 170, 222
Edit, 148
start, 90, 135, 222
Save, 148
Terminating, 222
Process value block, 177
WinCC TAG Simulator, 90, 135, 170, 222
Project, 15, 87, 90, 135
Simulation type, 222
Activate, 87, 170, 218
Slider object, 195
creating, 16
Define color, 201
Single-User Project, 16
Define name, 201
Starting WinCC, 16
Define size, 201
test, 90, 135, 170, 222
Dynamizing, 201
Inserting, 201
Smart objects, 49
Q
Standard objects, 49
Quick_Start Static text, 57
Single-User Project, 16 Start, 16
Alarm Logging, 176
Tag Logging, 142
R WinCC, 16
WinCC TAG Simulator, 170
Renaming, 45, 148
Start picture, 83, 168
Archive tag, 148
defining, 83, 215
Process picture, 45
START.Pdl, 45
Runtime, 13
creating, 45
Runtime component, 13
Edit, 60
Archive system, 140
Static text, 57
Graphics system, 44
Change font size, 57
Message system, 174
Inserting, 57
Runtime software, 13
Status, 181
WinCC, 13
Message, 193
Runtime system dialogs, 94
valve, 173
Runtime window, 83
Structure element, 105
Start picture, 83, 168, 215
Structure tag, 105, 108
Window Attributes, 83
creating, 108
Structure tag element, 108

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 Index

Structure type Update cycle

creating, 105 I/O field, 66
Data types, 105, 108 User text block, 177
Linking, 121
SVG library, 50
SVG object V
Dynamizing, 62
Value, 19
System block, 177
archiving, 139
System dialogs
Process value, 19, 22, 139
Using, 94
simulate, 90, 135
Value range, 37
Scaling process tags, 37
T
Table window, 160
configuring, 160 W
WinCC OnlineTableControl, 160
WinCC, 13
Tag, 22
Configuration software, 13
Archive tag, 145
Runtime software, 13
creating, 31, 39
Subsystems, 13
Internal tag, 22, 39
WinCC AlarmControl, 195, 196
Linking, 62
WinCC Explorer, 13
Process tag, 22, 31, 37
WinCC OnlineTableControl, 151, 160
Scaling, 37
Inserting, 160
Tag connection, 61
WinCC OnlineTrendControl, 151, 152
Direct tag connection, 61
Displaying messages, 188
Tag group, 22
Inserting, 152
creating, 31
WinCC Runtime, 13
Tag Logging, 140
Specifying properties, 83, 168, 215
start, 142
Start picture, 168
Tag Logging Runtime, 140
WinCC TAG Simulator, 90, 135, 170, 222
Activate, 168
Defining the simulation type, 222
Tag Management, 22
start, 90, 135, 170, 222
Internal tag, 22, 39
Window Attributes, 83
Process tag, 22, 31
Activate, 83
Tag group, 31
Windows object, 49
Tag_Logging.pdl, 152
Testing, 90, 135
Project, 90, 135, 170, 222
Text field, 57
Timer, 143
configuring, 143
creating, 143
Trend window, 152
configuring, 152
WinCC OnlineTrendControl, 152
Type Conversion, 31
Process tag, 31

U
Unsigned 16-bit value, 39

SIMATIC HMI WinCC V8.0 Getting Started

Getting Started, 03/2023, A5E52671436-AA 241