Frequently Asked Questions: GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc

Frequently Asked Questions
GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc.

2500 Austin Drive
Charlottesville, VA 22911
www.ge-ip.com
The information in this manual is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of GE
Intelligent Platforms, Inc. The software described in this manual is furnished under a license or nondisclosure agreement.
This software may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of this agreement. No part of this manual may be
reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording,
for any purpose other than the purchaser's personal use without the written permission of GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc.
© Copyright 2009 by GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc.

All rights reserved. All brand names and product names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.
SA06-120-012009
The text and screen shots in this document are compatible with Workbench Version 8.3.0 and subsequent releases. If you are
running a previous version, please contact Technical Support.
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Contents
CONTROLLER............................................................................................................................................. 4
LICENSING ................................................................................................................................................ 13
ERRORS/EVENT LOG .............................................................................................................................. 14
STRATEGY BUILDER ............................................................................................................................... 16
ADMINISTRATIVE ..................................................................................................................................... 21
PROJECT RESTORE/BACKUP................................................................................................................ 24
REPORTS .................................................................................................................................................. 25
TAGS.......................................................................................................................................................... 26
DATABASE................................................................................................................................................ 27
NETWORKING........................................................................................................................................... 28
DISCRETE CONTROL............................................................................................................................... 30
GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

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Controller
Q: How can I tell if the logic within a controller matches my current drawings?
A: Every attempt has been made to verify that what you see is what you get (WYSIWIG), concerning
the control strategies on the Workbench and the control strategies actually running in the
controller. If all drawings are shown as “loaded”, then they have been set to the controller. The
loaded icon for a drawing appears as: . In addition, every time a new strategy is generated,
a counter is incremented within the strategy program file (extension .prg) and when the strategy is
downloaded, this counter is sent to a specific Modbus register within the controller. To verify that
the strategy on the Workbench matches that in the controller, perform the following steps:
1. Right-click the controller in question and select Download Control Strategies.
2. On the download form, click Connect to connect to the controller. (This assumes that the
controller has been properly configured.)
3. Next, click the appropriate Process check box in the Download Options section.
4. Click Connect again. This issues an OPC read command to read the appropriate Process
Version register and verify it against the strategy program file.
5. If the strategy version numbers match, the Master option button is displayed in
green: .
6. If the version numbers do not match, the Master option button is displayed in yellow:
. A tool tip showing the actual version number loaded and strategy
program version number appears when the cursor is hovered over the option button.
Q: How can I tell what options the Workbench and controller support?
A: Before control logic can be downloaded to a controller, three conditions must be met:
1. The Workbench must be licensed for this type of control logic.
2. A strategy must have been built for this type of control logic.
3. The firmware within the target controller must support this type of control logic.
If any of the above conditions are not met, the associated download options do not appear on the
controller download form.
To determine why a particular option may not be appearing for a controller, click the Properties
button on the download form. A separate message box appears that shows which options are
allowed for this particular controller.
Note: On any given system, the Workbench may be licensed to support both types of control
logic, but individual controllers may be licensed to support either one or both types of logic.

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Q: Why does the To Block on the Download form show a large number when I only have a few
blocks on my drawing?
A: The Process Control Logic uses block numbers 1-200 as internal blocks when performing logic.
The Strategy Builder starts with block number 1 as the first user-configurable block number. This
translates to block number 201 when viewing on the Download form. Changing the From and To
execution block numbers is a way to execute only a part of the control logic. From and To blocks
also determine which blocks to execute and how to divide them to control scan time. The fewer
the blocks scanned, the faster the overall scan.
Individual block downloads are not supported for controllers, but setting the From and To blocks
allows the control engineer to control what section of the Process logic is to be executed or
skipped. This can be helpful when the user wants to isolate certain blocks during debugging or
testing.
Q: Is there any limit to the number of projects or controllers I may have?
A: The theoretical limit to the number of projects that may be defined in the Workbench is slightly
larger than 32,000, which, for all practical purposes, is unlimited. However, when the Workbench
is started, each project must be loaded from the database, which consumes memory within the
Workbench. Based on your processor and disk speed, you may experience performance
degradation as more projects are added. This is usually not apparent until fifteen or more projects
are added. As a workaround, you may delete, but not purge, your inactive projects. If the projects
are deleted, they still exist, but are not loaded into memory. A deleted project may be reactivated
at any time, as long as it has not been purged from the system.
The number of controllers per project is limited to 247, due to Modbus node numbering
conventions.
Q: How does Modbus Master on serial link work with redundant controllers?
A: One port on each controller should be multi-dropped onto the Modbus LAN. The Master
Controller is the Modbus Master and, upon failover of the controller, the new Master takes over.
However, if the Modbus link is lost, the controller does not failover as it is. Refer to the 8521
Installation Manual (INM8521) for further details.
Q: What happens when a controller fails and is replaced with a new controller?
A: The Workbench is required to configure the controller in the normal way. If this is an issue, it is
recommended that you use redundant controllers. With redundant controllers, the replacement
unit is refreshed by the Master.
Q: Can a controller be upgraded (e.g. eBIM to Hybrid)?
A: Yes. A new license can be purchased and downloaded to the controller.
Q: Are the controllers time synchronized?
A: Yes, but they need to be configured to do so in the System Parameters.

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Q: What is the maximum number of controllers (nodes) in one system?
A: The TCP network is the only limiting factor, so it depends upon the capacity of the switches and
hubs used.
Q: What are the maximum loops for one controller?
A: The maximum number of modules per 8521 Controller is 64. Therefore, the maximum number of
direct connected IO channels is 1024 Digital (16x64). A PID loop typically has four function blocks
(if viewed on operator station) = 1 input, 1 output, 1 PID controller, 1 HMI block (manual-auto
station). In addition, each IO point on an EBIM connected by Peer to Peer Ethernet, or any other
remote IO connected to the controller, requires a function block to map the IO point into a control
drawing. The controller can process a maximum of 5800 function blocks.
Q: For some applications, we may use EBIM communicating with the controller in order to
maximize the ability of the controller and save cost. Is this a reasonable proposal?
A: This is possible, but it is sometimes not advisable to do so. If you are thinking of offering this for
any project, please contact applications support with details of the exact application.
Q: 8521 Ethernet BIM can be connected to 8521 Controller to share the same controller. How
many Ethernet BIMs can be connected to one 8521 controller? What is the limit for the
number of modules on one controller, including Remote IO modules?
A: The limits are the number of function blocks that can run in the controller (5800), the processing
time for these function blocks, and the latency of the Ethernet LAN. Theoretical maximum is one
thing, achieving practical performance is another. A user or integrator should be asked to consult
before quoting systems out of the norm (i.e. Control Strategy executing in the 8521 Controller
with normal IO on the Railbus). Care must be taken, when integrating Remote IO via various
means, that adequate performance is achieved to meet the control needs.
Q: Can more than two nodes communicate Peer to Peer?
A: Yes.
Q: Is there any limit to how many Peer to Peer communications can be performed
simultaneously?
A: No.
Q: Does the controller memory have battery backup? How long can the battery last?
A: Flash memory does not need to be battery backed.
Q: Can we upgrade the BIM to EBIM or 8521 Controller for an existing customer using 8000
with a separate BIM or 8521 Controller by replacing the BIMs and connecting to existing IO
modules?
A: Yes, the controllers or EBIM and carrier can be retrofitted to existing IO modules and carriers as a
replacement for Modbus or Profibus BIM. There are two types of carriers: 32 address type
(referred to in configurator as BIM) and 64 address type (referred to as 8521 Controller). When
retrofitting to existing (BIM address type) carriers, the number of IO modules per 8521 Controller
is limited to 32, as with Modbus or Profibus BIMs.

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Q: Can the 8521 Process Controller execute logic functions?
A: Yes, the process controller can do all of the normal logic operations, plus some additional. Refer
to the Function Blocks Document for a list and description of the process function blocks.
Q: Can the 8521 Discrete Control Controller execute PID control?
A: The 8521 Discrete Control Controller can be programmed using any of the IEC61131 languages,
so it is not best suited to PID control functions.
Q: Do the Discrete Control functions and Process Control functions each run separately? How
will the data/FB running in Logic interact with Process Control and vice versa within the
same controller?
A: The Discrete Control and Process Control functions are executed concurrently and
independently. The tags are linked in the Workbench where required. Use the Map Discrete
Control Points function from the controller's right-click menu.
Q: Where can I find the specification of the 8521 controller about CPU rate and internal bus
speed?
A: Currently, these are not published on the datasheet because these specifications are not very
important regarding overall system performance and can be misleading if the wrong conclusions
are drawn from them. For example, one system may have less system memory than another, yet
may still perform better because system memory isn't relevant to overall system performance.
Processor IBM Power PC405

CPU rate 266MHz
Internal Bus Speed (Railbus) 500Kbit/s - serial data, parallel addressing Controller memory
16MB RAM + 8MB flash RAM Better benchmarks to use are:
Execution time 100 control loops executed in 100mS
Capacity 5800 function blocks max (= approx. 500 loops)
Q: What are the MTBF and MTTR figures for 8521 components and how would a user
calculate the MTBF/MTTR for the whole system?
A: MTBF for 8521controller is 28.7 years. MTBF table for all other components is on Lotus Notes
SIP database.
MTTR for all components can be quoted as 1 day, since systems can be live maintained and time
to repair is simply time taken to collect spare part from store, go to the field, exchange, and file a
maintenance report. In general, add the reciprocals (1/x) of all MTBFs for components in the loop.
For dual or n+1 redundancy, the square of the reciprocal (1/x2) of the MTBF should be
considered since only two simultaneous failures affect the system.
Example: AI-AO control loop in redundant 8521 Controller, redundant PSU system, 40 module
node with carrier extension cable:
MTBF(8521) = 28.7 1/x = 0.035 1/x2 = 0.001

MTBF(8103) = 35.1 1/x = 0.028 (estimated based on MTBF(8104)
MTBF(8104) = 35.1 1/x = 0.028
MTBF(8604) = 800 1/x = 0.001 (multiply by 2 for two field terminal blocks in the loop)*
MTBF(8750) = 1500 1/x = 0.001 (estimated based on MTBF(8711))
MTBF(8709) = 1500 1/x = 0.001 (multiply by 5 for the five carriers in the node)
MTBF(8913) = 120 1/x = 0.008 1/x2 = 0 (estimated based on MTBF(8910))
MTBF(8002) = 446 1/x = 0.002

8
MTBF(railbus) = 109 1/x = 0.011
MTBF(loop) = 1000/(1+28+28+(1x2)+1+(1x5)+0+2+11) = 13 years
*Non-fused terminals MTBF is 3000 yr
Q: How do I assign a new IP address to a controller that already has an IP address?
A: If you know the current IP address of the controller:

1. Make sure your PC has the correct IP address and SubNet mask for the target IP you wish to
assign.
2. Start the Workbench.
3. Launch the IO Configurator.
4. Select the controller and select the Attributes tab.
5. Click the Auto button on the toolbar.
6. Enter the new IP addresses and node number.
7. Click the Download button on the toolbar.
8. When prompted, select the Restart after download option.
If you do not know the current IP address of the controller:

1. Make sure your PC has the correct IP address and SubNet mask for the target IP you wish to
assign.
2. Power off the controller and re-power with Change State Button on the controller held down.
3. Release the Change State Button when the Healthy, Fault, and Failsafe lights on the
controller are flashing together.
4. Start the Workbench and then start the Network Configurator.
5. After the Network Configurator completes its search, the icon on the bottom right corner of
the Network Configurator should be yellow with a red cross through it.
6. Double-click this icon to invoke the mapping dialog.
7. Select All Controllers.
8. Choose the appropriate controller and select Apply.
9. Click Yes on the dialogs.
10. Launch the IO Configurator.
11. Click the Download button on the toolbar.
12. Select Save to NVM and OK.
Q: What are the pre-assigned register numbers within a controller that may be used with HMI
or OPC client applications?
A: 0x Registers (Coils)
• 000002 Logic 1
• 000001 Logic 0
• 000005 Second Timer Flag
• 000013 Block Failure Indicator
• 000016 Reserved
1x Registers (Status Registers)
• 100251 COM 1 Lost Timeout (Firmware version 1.10 and greater)
• 100252 COM 2 Lost Timeout (Firmware version 1.10 and greater)
• 100253 Modbus Slave (ethernet) Lost Timeout (Firmware version 1.10 and greater)

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• 100254 API (ethernet) Lost Timeout (Firmware version 1.10 and greater)
• 100255 Control Package A Port Lost Timeout (Firmware version 1.10 and greater)
• 100256 Control Package B Port Lost Timeout (Firmware version 1.10 and greater)
• 116207 Processor A device diagnostic for RAM
• 116223 Processor B device diagnostic for RAM
3x Registers (Input Registers)
• No Registers
4x Registers (Holding Registers)
• 400001 Start of Data Table
• 400021 Start of PID Data
• 400024 PID Derivative Update Time
• 400025 Maximum Number of Connections
• 400033 Block Number of a Failed Block
• 400035 Version Number from PRG File
• 400039 Partial Scan
• 400040 Maximum Block Count
• 400041 Percent of Specs Used
• 400042 Current Block
• 400043 First Block
• 400044 End Block
• 400045 Spec Total
• 400047 Scan Time
• 400048 Max File
• 400049 Max Block
• 400050 Op Code
• 400051 File Number -or-
• 400051 Block Download Array Type, Block Download First Block to Checksum
• 400052 File Block -or-
• 400052 Block Download Start Index, Block Download Last Block to Checksum
• 400053 Function Code -or-
• 400053 Block Download Number of Elements
• 400054 IO Points -or-
• 400054 Block Downloaded First Data Register
• 400055 Data Points -or-
• 400055 Block Download GE Executable ID
• 400056 Exe Code
• 400057 Checksum -or-
• 400057 Block Download CRC, Program Checksum Command
• 400058 Error Code -or-
• 400058 Block Download Command Status
• 400060 Type Start
• 400061 Register Start
• 400175 Data Start
• 400062-400249 Reserved
Q: What do the LEDs on the controller tell me about the status of the controller?
A: Master start-up
INITIALIZING
All modules are being scanned. When all are Healthy (or deemed Failed), then
initialization is complete.
LEDs: Master on, Health flashing (this means “trying to become healthy”).

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HEALTHY
The master is running control packages, scanning modules, sending peer to peer, etc.
LEDs: Master on, Health on.
Standby start-up
REQUEST REFRESH
The standby dos not have up-to-date data, so it must get it from the master. It enters this
state to attract attention from the master.
LEDs: Fault on, Health flashing.
REFRESHING
The master looks at the standby to see if it is asking for a refresh every 10 seconds.
When it sees it, the master initiates the refresh. The standby enters this state when it is
being refreshed.
LEDs: Health flashing.
HEALTHY
This indicates that the refresh is complete. The standby is synchronizing with the master.
LEDs: Health on.
Other states
OFFLINE
This state is one where the master or standby is available but is not scanning modules
nor running control packages. It can come about during maintenance, start-up if not
configured to start automatically, by pressing the button or if the controller has detected
as suspicious condition that might need manual intervention.
Exit from state (by API or pressing the button) must force the processor to acquire its up-
to-date live data. A master must enter Initialising and a standby enters Request
Refresh.
LEDs: Failsafe on, Health off.
FAILSAFE
In this rare state, the controller is healthy but has been commanded to Failsafe state by
an API call. In Failsafe, all modules are commanded to Failsafe and no writes are
permitted.
LEDs: Failsafe on, Health on.
FAILED
If a controller crashes, then it normally resets. On restart, it refuses to budge except by
power reset (or Restart API call). It supports a subset of API calls, including retrieve
event log.
LEDs: Failsafe on, Fault on.
Q: How can I determine what version of the firmware is executing in a controller?
A: There are two ways to determine the firmware version:

1. You can use the download screen from within the Workbench and "connect" to the desired
controller. After a successful connection, the firmware version appears in the lower right
hand corner of the Download form.

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2. For a more detailed report, launch the Network Configurator. Select the desired controller
in the controller list. Use the File menu pulldown and click on the Generate Controller
Summary menu item. A text file named ccc_NVM_Info.txt (where ccc is the controller
name) is generated in the Temp folder that was created when the system was installed.
Q: Is it possible to use tags in both Discrete Control and Process within the same controller?
A: Yes, right-click a controller and select the Map Data | Map Discrete Control Points menu item
to display the Discrete Control Data Mapping form. This form allows you to drag and drop tags
from the Available Tags list onto the Mapped Tags list.
• IO points and auto tags are automatically available to map to Discrete Control. Once
mapped, they can be used in Process Control and Discrete Control.
• Tags created in Process Control can also be mapped into Discrete Control and used as
necessary.
• Tags created in Discrete Control cannot be used in Process Control.
• Tags created in Discrete Control can only be used in Discrete Control and are not
accessible by HMI. Discrete Control tags that need to be referenced by HMI need to be
defined in Project Tag Index as types ISG AO (analogues) or ISG DO (digitals). These
tags are bi-directional and can be written in Discrete Control and read by HMI or written by
HMI and read in Discrete Control.
Q: Under what conditions will downloads and configuration changes be accepted by a Safety
Controller?
A:
KeySwitch KeySwitch Config Function Password
Function Locked Unlocked Safe Mode Mode Allowed Protected
IO configuration
Download x x no
x x yes
x x no
x x yes
Logic Download x x no
x x yes
x x no
x x yes
SafeD Write x x no
x x no
x x yes
x x yes
Mode Change x x no
x x no
x x yes yes
x x yes yes
Password Change x x no
x x no
x x no
x x yes yes

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Debug Mode x x no
x x yes
x x no
x x yes
Modify Trusted
Hosts x x no
x x no
x x yes yes
x x yes yes

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Licensing
Q: How do I license my system?
A: For information on licensing, refer to Start | Programs | Proficy Common | License

Documentation.

14
Errors/Event Log
Q: Does the system record actions that I have taken or errors that may have occurred?
A: All errors are written to the Applications section of the Windows Event Logger and are classified
either as critical or warning. These errors appear with a “Source” of VBRuntime. Certain
informational messages appear in the Applications section, as well. For example, a message is
sent to the Windows Event Logger every time a strategy is downloaded to the controller, or when
a compile all request is started.
Note: An easy way to launch the Windows Event Logger is to right-click the icon in the lower right
hand corner of the Workbench.types of logic.
Q: What happens when my Windows Event Logger fills up?
A: If the Windows Event Logger fills up, a message box warning you of this condition is displayed
when the Workbench is started. To clear this error, refer to the Troubleshooting | Workbench
Errors section of the on-line help.
Q: I cannot launch the IO Configurator from the Workbench. I get an error telling me that I
have an incompatible version.
A: This error typically occurs when the 8000 IO Configurator was installed as a standalone
application prior to the installation of the Workbench. The Workbench requires a later file version
than that which was previously installed. To correct this problem, perform the following steps:
1. Search the disk for instances of a file named tmpl.v2.
2. For each occurrence of this file, rename it to tmpl.v2_old.
3. Make a copy the file named xxx_Config_tmpl.v2, where xxx is the project name, found in
the DatabaseTemplates folder and name it tmpl.v2
4. Copy the tmpl.v2 file created in step 3 into the folders in which the original tmpl.v2 was
found.
5. Launch the IO Configurator again to test.
Alternatively, the user can elect to change the default ODBC connection that the IO Configurator
uses to verify the version numbers. To change the ODBC connection, perform the following
steps:
1. From the Windows Start Menu, open the Control Panel.
2. Select Administrative Tools.
3. Select Data Sources (ODBC).
4. Select the User DSN tab.
5. Double-click on the tmpl.v2 entry.
6. In the database frame, if the database location is somewhere other than the
Utilities\Configurator subfolder, click Select.
7. Starting from the Workbench Installation directory, browse for the tmpl.v2 file in the
Utilities\Configurator subfolder.
8. Click OK several times to apply these changes.

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Q: How can I see the event log generated by a controller?
A: The Controller generates event logs as significant events occur; the last 512 events are kept
within a circular buffer in the controller. There are two ways to see the event logs within a
controller:
1. From within the Workbench, expand the controller node in the Project Explorer and double-
click the Controller Statistics icon . If the controller is configured correctly and is
running, the event logs are returned to the Event Messages list view in the Controller
Statistics form. The events may be printed or saved to a file using the Panel menu item. Click
Get Events to retrieve the latest events from the controller.
2. From within the Network Configurator, you may right-click the desired controller name in the
main list view and select Capture Event Logs to activate a form which allows you to capture
the current event logs or capture the event logs until a certain number or time of day has
been reached. These logs are stored in the file specified when logging was started.

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Strategy Builder
Q: How do I copy and paste within the Strategy Builder?
A: Copying and pasting within a single drawing and across multiple drawings is supported when
viewing a strategy in edit mode.
1. First, open a drawing for editing.
2. Hold down the left mouse button and drag an outline around the blocks and connectors that
you wish to select. Release the mouse button and the selected blocks and connectors are
displayed with small boxes around the blocks and small diamonds on the connectors.
3. Select Copy Blocks from the Edit menu or click Copy Blocks to copy the selected blocks
and connectors to the clipboard.
4. Next, position the cursor on the same drawing or on a different drawing at the approximate
location where the blocks and connectors are to be copied.
5. Select Paste Blocks from the Edit menu or click Paste Blocks to paste these blocks and
connectors onto the drawing.
6. At this point, you are given the option to change the tagnames within the pasted blocks. If you
elect to change the tagnames, you may step through each block and change the tagname to
the desired tagname. If you elect not to change the tagnames, you may change them at a
later date by double-clicking each individual block and editing, it as necessary.
Q: Why can’t I use the Windows standard Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V characters to copy and paste?
A: When the Ctrl+C and Ctrl+P characters are handled by Windows, the selected items are copied
to the clipboard and then simply pasted onto the desired document with no additional user
interaction. In order to provide the ability to interact and rename tags, for example, the copy and
paste toolbar buttons were provided so that the Strategy Builder could recognize the special case
and respond accordingly. To avoid errors, the Ctrl+C and Ctrl+P characters are disabled when
editing in the Strategy Viewer.
Q: How can I use the copy and paste on drawings created prior to version 7.3.1?
A: Copy and paste on the Strategy Builder was not enabled prior to 7.3.1 and drawings created with
previous versions must be converted. To allow copy and paste on drawings created prior to 7.3.1,
bring up the drawing in edit mode. Select the File | About Drawing menu item. If the drawing
was created prior to 7.3.1, a button with the caption Convert to 7.3.1 appears. Click this button.
Following a successful conversion, a message box appears that gives the name of the backup
file that contains the original drawing. Because this conversion involves extensive
reorganization of the internal features of the drawing, it is necessary to stop and restart
the Workbench before proceeding.
Q: Are there any limits to the number of function blocks that can exist in a controller?
A: When creating Process Logic, the following limitations apply:

• Each controller can support 6000 function blocks, 200 of which are reserved for internal use
and 5800 of which are available to the user.
• Each controller can support 70,000 “connects” where a connect is roughly equivalent to each
input or output line (connection) on each function block. In some cases, the function block
creates internal variables and pointers which add to its connection count. The average

17
number of connects per function block is five, hence the limitation on the number of function
blocks per controller is typically the determining limitation.
• Other than the 5800 function blocks per controller limit, there is no other limit to the number of
function blocks per drawing. Practically speaking, however, the limitation of function blocks
per drawing is determined by what can be reasonably shown on the drawing.
• There is no limit to the number of drawings per controller.
Q: How come I cannot create drawings on my system?
A: You may not have the appropriate license, or you may have logged onto the system with a
security level of less than 4. See the Security Levels topic in the on line help for a description of
the security levels.
Q: Are there function blocks for complex PID control like feed-forward, subsection or split-
output control as sometimes used in pressure control?
A: Yes, for the split output control, we generally would use the I2CNTR block attached to the output
of the MAAU block. The min max values are set to represent the signal range of the 4095, which
opens the valve from 0 to 100 percent. For example, if one valve is to open from 0 to 30 percent
and the other from 25 to 100 percent, then the I2CNTR for the first valve is set for 0 to 1228 and
the I2CNTR for the other is set for 1024 to 4095. Generally, there is a small valve and a large
valve. The small valve gives better control at the start up level and the larger valve comes into
play at higher demand levels. This is the reason for the overlap. As the small valve gets close to
full opening, the next valve is starting.
Q. What is the difference in the way AI, SAI, and HAI function blocks are used in the Strategy
Builder?
A. SAI maps from counts of the module, i.e. 0 to 65535, into controller range (0 to 4095). Thus, if
you want to bring an analog channel directly into the PV input on a PID, you would use the SAI
block. If you didn’t use SAI, you would use an AI block to access the data and then pass that into
an I2CNTR to turn the counts into control range. HAI is used to access data on HART tags.
Meaning, if you have a module such as the 8101, you get one MA tag and 4 HART tags. If you
want to use the HART data in your control strategy, you would place the HART tag on a HAI
block.
Q. What is the difference between the SGA/SGD and constants such as Logic 1, Logic 0, and
FIXED?
A. The SGA/SGD is just like the FIXED, LOGIC1, and LOGIC0, except they are tunable. The SGA
functions exactly like the FIXED except that it can be tuned to change its value without needing a
compile and download.
Q. Does the STAWD function block write to/read from MAAU station tags?
A. More than that, it does STRTSTOP, S3DRV, and MAAU. Use STAWD with the base tag name of
a STRTSTOP to change the mode command by selecting Mode Command and giving it the value
of 1 for automatic or 2 for manual.

18
Q. Are there some written instructions for creating subroutines and passing variables in and
out?
A. The best source of information for understanding the subroutines is the subroutine template
drawing (SUBRTN).
Q. Is the STEP function in conjunction with another function?
A. The STEP drawing template provides a good example of how to use this function.
Q. Is the TPC function block used in conjunction with or in place of PID/MAAU function
blocks?
A. The TPC is the timed pulsed control and it used to stroke a valve based on the difference
between the Output and the Feedback. For a positive difference, the RPO output is used and for
a negative difference, the LPO output is used. The length of the pulse is based on the time
constant specified, as well as the percent error.
Q. Does the PIDWD function block allow a user to write to the P/I/D settings of the control
loop so that tuning can be performed from the operator station like a DCS?
A. Yes, this allows the customer to do something like long reset times or adaptive tuning (i.e. pH
control where the tuning must be changed based on where you are in the titration curve). So the
PIDWD could be used to write a RESET value from logic (which could be mapped from an OIAN
block, meaning that the data is being pulled from the HMI). However, the PID can be tuned in the
HMI without ever using this block; just use the <pid_tag>G, <pid_tag>RST, and <pid_tag>DER
tagnames to access the tuning parameters.
Q. How does a user choose whether to use IMCB, MCB, S3DRV, SEQUSUB, SSB, or
STRTSTOP?
A. It all depends on what you are trying to accomplish. STRTSTOP is a simple ON/OFF type motor
or valve. S3DRV is a three state block, so it can handle FWD, REV, and OFF. The IMCB is an
Intelligent Motor Control Block and is used for motors that accept commands and then respond
with states. This involves using a separate application to map the bit in the command and stat
words. The MCB is like the IMCB except that the parameters are passed as inputs to the block
rather than using the separate application to map the bits. The motors can then be put into a
sequence so that they all start and stop together after certain time delays. This is done via the
SSB (sequence start block) and each motor’s data is passed back to the SSB through the use of
the SEQUSUB block.
Q. ONS function - how long is logic 1 held? (One program cycle?)
A. One scan.
Q. Does the BSET function exist because inputs cannot be connected directly to outputs?
A. Yes. If you want to map a DI value directly to a DO, you would need to use a BSET with the tag
set to * to accomplish this. The function was also useful with previous versions when trying to
send the GO output of a STRTSTOP block to another block. This is no longer necessary
however, since the STRTSTOP block now allows you to specify if a tag for the GO should be
created.

19
Q. Which register address (DEMUX, FX2D, SELN, TABLE2D) is used for the stored data?
A. The TABLE2D block is the master. The TABLE2D loads the data from the specified CSV file into
memory at the specified location. Normally, an area such as 25000 or so would be selected. The
other blocks (whichever is appropriate for the application) would then reference the same area.
For example, the table represents temperature-pressure compensation and is given an offset of
24000. Then the FX2D block, which does the interpolation, references the same register (24000).
Q. When should REMOTE_SAI and REMOTE_SAO function blocks be used rather than a
REMOTE_A function block?
A. REMOTE_SAI and REMOTE_SAO are used to scale analog inputs and analog outputs that are
coming in over peer-to-peer data. A physical AI tag is mapped from a remote project, then the
REMOTE_SAI block must be used to properly see the data in the local drawing.
Q. I connected to the remote server from a client system and I mapped the remote drive. I can
see all of the drawings correctly, but when I try to edit one, the system tells me that it may
be in use by someone else. I know this is not the case, so why can’t I edit the drawing from
the client?
A. Whenever a drawing is to be edited, the Workbench attempts to lock the drawing so that only one
user may be editing it at a time, and this requires special permissions for the drawing and its
folders. While the server has shared its drive for your use and you can see the folders and
drawings, you may not have all of the permission you need. On the server system, right-click the
drive to be shared and click Sharing. In the resulting dialog box, select the Security tab sheet,
select the desired user in the upper box, and select the desired permissions in the lower box.
Next, click the Advanced button and make certain that the check box that enables permissions to
be inherited by the child objects is checked. If this box is unchecked, client users are not able to
edit drawings regardless of the permissions granted to them.
Q. I’ve edited a drawing and when I try to compile it, I get an error message from the compiler
that I have unconnected lines, but I don’t see any lines that are unconnected. What’s
wrong?
A. All outputs must have an output tagname or be connected to a block with a tagname. If this is not
the case, you get an “unconnected line” error message. An asterisk (*) is used as a default un-
named output and may be used successfully only if the block is connected to another block with a
named output. The “at” sign (@) is used to create a named output referencing the block number
and is used primarily if the user doesn’t wish to give this output a meaningful tagname. In
addition, to the common error of “unconnected lines”, as described here, is the error of multiple
addresses on the same line. Multiple addresses are basically the opposite condition where two
blocks with different names have their outputs connected together.
Q. How do I change the block type, such as CNCA or OIAN, from integer to floating point?
When I try, I get a “duplicate” tag error message when I compile the drawing.
A. Once a tag has been generated, it is assigned that specific type. Changing it on one drawing
cannot insure that the tag has not been used elsewhere as the original type. Changing the name
creates it as a new tag, setting the default type. Therefore, you cannot change the tag type once
it has been used. To avoid this issue when assigning future tags, it is recommended that some
form of naming convention be used, for example, adding an _f or _n after the name to designate
type.

20
Q. Why don’t the analog and digital joins (AJOIN, DJOIN) function blocks compile when they
are connected to constant values, such as FIXED, LOGIC1, or LOGIC0 function blocks?
A. They don’t compile because the constant value function blocks do not have addresses.
Therefore, the joins do not work with them.
Q. According to the manuals, Foundation Fieldbus is fully supported through linking devices.
How can I work with data from linking devices, how is the communication configured, etc?
A. If you do not want to use the FFB information in a control strategy in the controller, you can use
the SMAR OPC server to pass information to the HMI. We have a SMAR function block to
Wonderware tag creator program, if needed.
Currently, the only option we have is to use Modbus Foundation Fieldbus function blocks in the
SMAR linking device to communicate to the FFB field devices. The set-up consists of starting a
Syscon project, adding a Modbus transducer block to the project to handle either serial or
Ethernet Modbus comms, and then adding multiple Modbus function blocks to map FFB variables
to Modbus registers in the linking device. Finally, you can use the Workbench Map Remote
Modbus Device Points to pass variables to/from the controller.
Q. Can we setup the range for AI and AO blocks from 0 to 65535 instead of having value from
-32768 to 32767?
A. No. Do not use AI and AO blocks. Use SAO and SAI and this converts to 0-4095.
Q. Why are Pan & Zoom and Copy & Paste buttons disabled on certain drawings?
A. Pan & Zoom and Copy & Paste on the Strategy Builder were not enabled prior to 7.3.1, therefore
Pan & Zoom and Copy & Paste are not supported for drawings created prior to version 7.3.1.
Furthermore, if a drawing created prior to 7.3.1 is opened, and then a drawing created after 7.3.1
is opened, all Pan & Zoom and Copy & Paste are disabled. Drawings created with prior versions
may be converted to the current version. Please refer to the FAQ “How can I use copy and
paste on drawings created prior to version 7.3.1?” within this document.
Q. When I try to create an SFC Function Block, I get an error message saying, “The build
cannot continue due to the presence of 1 or more SFC Function Block(s). Delete the
block(s) and try again.”
A. The controller target does not support SFC function blocks; if you try to compile a function block
that contains an SFC for this target, the compiler rejects it.

21
Administrative
Q: What does OCPCC stand for and why do these letters sometimes appear in the
documentation?
A: Originally, the system was going to be named the Open Control Platform Control Center, so the
initials OCPCC were used in several places. It was decided that this was too much of a mouthful,
so this name was dropped and “Workbench” was chosen instead. When these letters appear in
the documentation, it is because this documentation was prepared before the name was
changed.
Q: How do I add my own applications to the Workbench?
A: You can add your own applications to the Workbench by creating a subfolder named
ExternalApps under the Utilities directory that was created when you installed the product.
Then, place either the executable programs (extension .exe) or shortcuts to the programs you
want to run from the Workbench. Only users with administrative privilege are able to execute
these programs, which may be launched from the Tools | Administrative Tools menu item. If
new applications are added while the Workbench is running, they are not seen until the
Workbench is stopped and restarted.
Q: How can I tell if I have the proper versions of software and firmware?
A: An application named OCPCCVersionCheck.exe is delivered with the system and installed in the
Temp folder that was created when your system was installed. Double-click this program to
execute it and use the File menu item to select the file version checked, for example:
"OCPCCVersionInfo_720.ver". The version files are also loaded in the Temp directory. When the
program is run, the current version numbers are checked against those enumerated in the
version file.
Q: I want my system to support FTE (Fault Tolerant Ethernet). What, if anything, do I need to
purchase?
A: To support FTE, you need to purchase an additional FTE option per PC. This is available from
your supplier and is on the standard price list. This option includes the additional Network
Interface Card - Intel Pro/100 S Dual Port Sever Adaptor.
Q: What are the differing levels of security in the Workbench?
A: There are 6 levels of access:

0 Disabled Lowest priority. No access.
1 Strategy Viewer Access limited to running Strategy Viewer. Cannot tune, view, or change any
other data.
2 Workbench Viewer All of the Strategy Viewer level abilities, plus the ability to view (as read-only) all
data within the Workbench. Can view drawings in the Strategy Builder, but
cannot change them.
3 Workbench Editor All of the abilities of the Workbench Viewer level, plus the ability to edit data
within the Workbench. Can create new data points, but cannot create or delete
projects, controllers, or drawings. Can edit drawings within Strategy Builder and
change tuning constants.
4 Create/Delete All of the Workbench Editor abilities, plus can create or delete projects,
controllers, or drawings.

22
5 Administrative Full access to everything. Can run administrative tools and utilities.
Q: Does the process Workbench have 5 IEC61131-3 language?
A: Process Workbench does not support the IEC61131 languages. You need to choose Logic
Workbench or Hybrid Workbench.
Q: Which operating system is needed for the Workbench?
A: The software runs on both Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
Q: Does "online configuration" include module configuration (add or delete module online)?
A: No. At present, the Workbench cannot bumplessly add modules online; we are working on this
feature. Online reconfiguration is allowed for ControlPlus Function Blocks and, under controlled
circumstances, for discrete control functions.
Q: Are there any plans to upgrade the Discrete Control software and will upgrades be
available for existing users?
A: This will be determined as updates are received for discrete control. In some cases, it makes
sense to incorporate the changes into the discrete control "engine" in the controller. In other
cases, the changes may be of such a nature that they do not affect the operation of discrete
control as it is applied within the controller. Therefore, these changes are not incorporated.
Q: What are the various compile options that are user-configurable?
A: There is an ini named Proc5m.ini file that the user can modify to change various compiler options.
This file is located in the Windows root directory. The entries in this file are as follows and can be
entered in the [Defaults] section:
IpKeyName = “Override_ext” – Extension added to override IO override bits.

IpDefault = “OVR”
IpKeyName = “NoFbkTags” – In GE970, this removes the DI feedback tags from being assigned.
IpDefault = “False”
IpKeyName = “PCT_CARD_FAIL” – Sets % range above and below signal for fail indication.
IpDefault = “5”
IpKeyName = “NO_9070CARD_TO_CHANNEL_FAIL” – Card failure is removed from channel fail

calculation.
IpKeyName = “NOMATCH_DI_DO” – For GE normal is to match DI and DO address assignment. True

removes this.
IpKeyName = “LESS16DIG” – GE Normal is to assign 16 bits per card. True allows less.
IpKeyName = “WWVer” – Set to 700 for Wonderware Versions less than 7.11.
IpDefault = “711” – This removes WW data fields added in 7.11.
IpKeyName = “WWKep” – Sets WW addressing to Kepware format if True.

IpKeyName = “WWNoUnsigned” – Removes ‘U’ extension from unsigned tags for MBEnet driver.

23
IpKeyName = “CIMPLICITY_ALARM_STRING” – Format for Cimplicity alarm string for analog tags.
IpDefault = “%ID value is %VAL %EU and is %STATE”
IpKeyName = “CIMPLICITY_ALARM_STRING_DIG” - Format for Cimplicity alarm string for digital tags.
IpDefault = “%ID is %STATE”
IpKeyName = “OLDCLIEFORM” – If true, the old CLIE form from 5.3.1 is launched.
IpKeyName = “old@address” – If true, removes the L, A, F from the @ BLK_[blocknumber] format.

IpKeyName = “clscharww” – The character between the Tag and the Extension in HMI tags.
IpDefault = “ “ - “ “ is none.
IpKeyName = “P_DDE_S” – Sets space or no space in DDE Item between register and type.
IpDefault = “_” – for example ‘400500 S’ or ‘400500S’
IpKeyName = “P_DDELong_S” – Driver designation for Long Integer.

IpDefault = “_L”
IpKeyName = “WW_BATCH_TAGS” – When true, Batch tags are generated for WW database in addition to
InBatch.
IpDefault = ”False”
IpKeyName = “INVERT_BATCH_BITS” – Normal 1-16 bits/word invert 16-1 bits/word.

IpKeyName = “UNIT_PREFIX” – String added to all tags for unit designation.

IpDefault = “ “

24
Project Restore/Backup
Q: I’m going to make some significant changes to my project and I want to be able to get
back to where I am in case I make a mistake. What’s the best way to do this?
A: The simplest and easiest way to ensure that you can return to your original project is to create a
backup of your project. If you feel that it may be important to revert to the original project very
quickly, then create a new project (with a naming convention that defines this as an original
project) and use the backup project as the source for this project.
Q: What states will the drawing strategies assume when restoring a project from a backup –
edited (red), compiled (yellow), or loaded (green)?
A: When restoring from backup, there is no way to know if the project is being restored because the
original project has been lost (in which case the icon colors should remain the same) or because
it is being used as the basis for a new project (in which case the icon color should revert to red).
Therefore, upon restoration, the drawings are kept the same color as when they were saved. If
the icon colors should not be the same as when the backup was done, simply perform an
Initialize Controller operation.

25
Reports
Q: Can I modify an existing report?
A: Yes, the reports exist in the Reports subfolder that was created when you installed the project.
Each report has the extension .rep. You can use the example report named Example.rep as a
guide for creating new reports or editing existing reports. The report files delivered with the
system are delivered as read-only files. If you want to edit an existing report, you need to remove
the read-only attribute. An upgrade may also overwrite your changes. Rather than changing an
existing report, it would be better to copy the report to a new file (with a .rep extension) and then
edit the new report. You can access this report using the Custom Reports option on the Report
form.
Q: How can I determine the table names and respective column names of the tables used by
the Workbench so that I can use them in my reports?
A: For a quick reference, select the Tools | Custom Report | Show Table Columns menu item
when the controller report or project report is selected. Next, select the Project Report Tables or
Controller Report Tables. This activates a menu with all of the tables available. Select the table
of interest to display a form that lists each column in the table, its type, and size. For more details
about any table, view the Database Reference online Help, DatabaseReference.chm. This file
was moved to the Documentation directory when the product was installed.

26
Tags
Q: Exactly what tag names are reserved tag names and why?
A: TemplateTag – This is the initial tag and is used as a template for all other tags. The user may
change any value of this tag (except the name) and those values then become the default for all
subsequent tags.
Dummy – Do you really want a tag named Dummy?
Spare – Likewise for Spare
Tag25 – Tag25 is a name reserved to indicate maximum register values assigned when doing
compilations.
Q: What characters are not allowed in tag names, project names, controller names, etc.?
A: The allowable tag name characters and allowable miscellaneous characters are customizable by
the user, as explained in the online Help sections: How to Change Allowable Tagname
Characters, and How to Change Allowable Miscellaneous Characters. To view the allowable
characters on your system, select the Project Report form for any project. Then select Custom
Reports | AllowableTagnameChars or AllowableMiscChars report and click Run Report.
Q: What is the limit on the number of tags?
A: There is not a practical limit to the number of tags within the Workbench. The limiting factor may
be the number of tags supported in the associated HMI.
Q: Is there a mechanism for grouping tags?
A: No. There is currently no mechanism for grouping tags, with the exception of naming
conventions. Note that the Strategy Builder and compiler create tags by appending tagname
extensions to the base tagnames. Using the standard reports supplied with the Workbench, or the
custom reports, the user can elect to sort and order tags in the reports by their names.
Q: Can a user create project tags in another application (e.g. excel saved as .csv file) and
import the file to the 8521 project tag index?
A: Yes, variables can be imported into the project tag database using the Data Import tool. It this
utility is not located on the Start menu under the Utilities folder of your Workbench installation
directory (Workbench 7.2.0 and later), you can execute the program directly by locating the
DataImport.exe program in the Workbench installation folder. See Import File Template for an
explanation of the structure of the input csv files.

27
Database
Q: I have version 7.1.0 of Wonderware (InTouch) installed. Can the Workbench generate a
DBLoad file that is compatible with this version?
A: Yes, in the Compiler folder that was created when you installed the Workbench, determine if a file
named PROC5M.INI exists. If it does not, create it using a simple text editor such as Notepad. In
the [DEFAULTS] section create an entry WWVER=700. When finished, your PROC5M.INI file
should have at least the following lines:
[DEFAULTS]
WWVER=700
Recompile a drawing to force a new creation of the CSV file and use either DBLOAD or the
Database Import Wizard to reload the InTouch database.
Q: What is the limiting database size when using MSDE? If a larger database is used, must an
MSSQL server be purchased?
A: The limiting database size is 2 gigabytes for MSDE. Given the amount and types of data stored in
the Workbench databases, this is not expected to be a limiting factor. If it does become a limiting
factor for any reason, then the MSDE system can be updated to Microsoft SQL Server.
Q: How can I generate a CSV (comma separated variable) file from my database for use as an
import file to other applications?
A: The Workbench report tool can be used to create CSV (or semi-colon separated files, blank
separated files) as well as standard reports. To prepare a CSV compatible file, use the <trim>
command to force the report generator to output data from the database to the file exactly as it
appears. Separate the data fields with the separator of your choice, run the report, and then save
it to a file. For example, the following commands generate a CSV file containing the Point Id,
Description, and Signal Type for all records in the data base that have a signal type entered:
SELECT * FROM GC11 WHERE sgnl_type_sel <> '' ORDER BY point_id

<END SQL>
1,point_id
2,service1
3,sgnl_type_sel
<END FIELDS>
<TRIM>
<MVF>
Tag,Description,Sgnl_Type
<START REPORT FORM>
<1>,<2>,<3>
<MVX>

28
Networking
Q: Is 10BaseT/100BaseTx the specification of the Ethernet cable?
A: 10BaseT/100BaseT defines the communication speed of the Ethernet - 10BaseT = 10MBit/Sec,

100BaseT = 100MBit/Sec. If using normal RJ45 terminated Cat 5 cable, this is acceptable. We
support and recommend the Shielded version, which is more common in industrial applications.
We also recommend 100BaseT components as standard. If using a mix, then the auto-
negotiation features of Ethernet make that segment of cable run at the speed of the slowest
component.
Q: Is the transmission rate 10M or 100M selected on the Workbench?
A: Transmission speed is selected automatically by the hardware depending upon other Ethernet
devices on the network. If all are capable of 100MBit, the speed is 100MBit. If there is one
computer or hub, for example, with only 10MBit LAN, then the speed is 10MBit.
Q: What is the maximum distance for the Ethernet using 10BaseT/100BaseTx cable?
A: The maximum recommended distance for Ethernet between devices/switches/hubs/ routers is

100m. (150m can be possible theoretically, but too close to the limit to be recommended.) There
should not be more than three routers/switches/hubs between any two points on a network.
Q: As the controller and IO are used remotely in most applications and the distance between
control room and the control system is more than 100m in many cases, can optic fibre be
used? What devices should be used to interface to the optic fibre?
A: There are some repeaters from Hirschmann, which are approved for Zone 2 and harsh
environments. Sixnet also offers a range of Industrial Ethernet hubs with a combination of fibre
and 10/100BaseT ports for Class 1 Division 2 applications (www.industrialmodem.com).
Q: Is the serial port (COM1 & COM2) on EBIM/controller or carrier only used for connecting to
controller/EBIM?
A: There are two serial ports per 8521 Controller, one on the controller itself and one on the carrier
beside the controller. Each serial port is independent and can be configured as Modbus Master,
Modbus Slave, HART, or configuration protocol. It is likely that most often the port will be used as
Modbus Master to other Modbus instruments or remote IO, or configured as the port to connect to
Cornerstone. The EBIMs and controllers communicate between each other in Peer to Peer mode
across the Ethernet LAN.

29
Q: Can simple apparatus (switch/THC/RTD) connect to non-incendive modules without any

explosion proof?
A: Yes, if the non-incendive modules are of type Ex nL or have energy limited non-incendive field
wiring, e.g. 8101, 8102, 8103, 8104, 8105, 8106, etc. This does not apply to Ex nA or non-arcing
modules.
Q: Can Wonderware InTouch or any other HMI connect to the 8521 simulator?
A: Yes.
Q: Does the Ethernet interface have to be isolated for zone/div 2 before disconnecting?
A: Yes. Refer to the 8521 Installation Manual (INM8521).
Q: Can the HMI be used to adjust alarm levels at the hardware level?
A: No, but process alarms within strategies can be set up as tags and then manipulated as
necessary.
Q: Can BootP be used over the ethernet/internet, i.e. through a router?
A: No. VNC, PCAnywhere, etc. can be used to remotely connect to the Workbench on a local
network.
Q: Can we mix the old carriers with new IO module carriers (for 64 module type) in same node
in expansion case?
A: No. In one node, all carriers must be of the same type, either all 32 address BIM type or all 64
address 8521 Controller type.

30
Discrete Control
Q: Discrete Logic fails to install when a download with No Initialization is performed.
A: The Discrete Logic may fail to install when a download with no initialization is performed for any
of the following reasons:
1. The type of any variable is changed.
2. The maximum length of a string variable (as defined in the Data Dictionary) is reduced.
This also applies if the string is part of an array.
3. Another dimension is added to an array, or an existing dimension is changed or deleted. (If
the array is a vector, i.e. it consists of a single row of numbers, then the number of
elements can be increased or decreased with impunity.)
4. The type-name of a structure is changed.
5. An SFC is modified such that the predecessors and successors of every step and transition
are not the same. This includes the replacement of any program unit with an SFC of the
same name.
If rules 1 - 4 are violated, the controller log contains the message:
“ISaGRAF cannot copy data into new strategy”
If rule 5 is violated, the log contains the message:
“ISaGRAF cannot start this strategy without initialisation”
Q: Discrete Control program stops executing.
A: One of the most common reasons that the Discrete Control program stops executing is due to a
logic error, such as divide by zero. When the Discrete Control program detects a divide by zero
error, it quits executing and posts a message to the controller's event log. When a download is
performed with initialization, the register values are initialized to their default values. If no default
value is specified, then the value is initialized to zero. Thus, if good programming techniques are
not used, the Discrete Control program can perform a divide by zero on its first pass and shut
down. If the register value is set by the Process Control program, then this may be a timing issue
that either occurs or does not occur, based on which set of logic executes first. It is good
programming practice to always check any variable before it is used as a divisor.

Frequently Asked Questions: GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc

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Frequently Asked Questions

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc.

© Copyright 2009 by GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc.

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: Is there any limit to the number of projects or controllers I may have?

Q: Can a controller be upgraded (e.g. eBIM to Hybrid)?

A: Yes. A new license can be purchased and downloaded to the controller.

Q: Are the controllers time synchronized?

A: Yes, but they need to be configured to do so in the System Parameters.

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: What is the maximum number of controllers (nodes) in one system?

Q: What are the maximum loops for one controller?

A: Flash memory does not need to be battery backed.

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: Can the 8521 Discrete Control Controller execute PID control?

Processor IBM Power PC405

MTBF(8521) = 28.7 1/x = 0.035 1/x2 = 0.001

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

*Non-fused terminals MTBF is 3000 yr

Q: How do I assign a new IP address to a controller that already has an IP address?

A: If you know the current IP address of the controller:

If you do not know the current IP address of the controller:

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: How can I determine what version of the firmware is executing in a controller?

A: There are two ways to determine the firmware version:

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: How do I license my system?

A: For information on licensing, refer to Start | Programs | Proficy Common | License

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: What happens when my Windows Event Logger fills up?

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: How can I see the event log generated by a controller?

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: How do I copy and paste within the Strategy Builder?

A: When creating Process Logic, the following limitations apply:

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: How come I cannot create drawings on my system?

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q. Is the STEP function in conjunction with another function?

Q. ONS function - how long is logic 1 held? (One program cycle?)

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: How do I add my own applications to the Workbench?

Q: What are the differing levels of security in the Workbench?

A: There are 6 levels of access:

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

Q: Does the process Workbench have 5 IEC61131-3 language?

Q: Which operating system is needed for the Workbench?

A: The software runs on both Windows 2000 and Windows XP.

IpKeyName = “Override_ext” – Extension added to override IO override bits.

IpKeyName = “NO_9070CARD_TO_CHANNEL_FAIL” – Card failure is removed from channel fail

IpKeyName = “NOMATCH_DI_DO” – For GE normal is to match DI and DO address assignment. True

IpKeyName = “WWKep” – Sets WW addressing to Kepware format if True.

GE Intelligent Platforms, Inc. October 2009

IpKeyName = “old@address” – If true, removes the L, A, F from the @ BLK_[blocknumber] format.

IpKeyName = “P_DDELong_S” – Driver designation for Long Integer.

IpKeyName = “INVERT_BATCH_BITS” – Normal 1-16 bits/word invert 16-1 bits/word.

IpKeyName = “UNIT_PREFIX” – String added to all tags for unit designation.