zenon Tutorial

First steps

v.7.60
©2017 Ing. Punzenberger COPA-DATA GmbH

All rights reserved.

Distribution and/or reproduction of this document or parts thereof in any form are permitted solely
with the written permission of the company COPA-DATA. Technical data is only used for product
description and are not guaranteed qualities in the legal sense. Subject to change, technical or
otherwise.
Contents

1. Willkommen bei der COPA-DATA Hilfe ......................................................................................... 8

2. First steps .................................................................................................................................... 8

3. The task ...................................................................................................................................... 9

4. Working with zenon .................................................................................................................. 10

5. A new project ............................................................................................................................ 10

5.1 Creating a new workspace ........................................................................................................................ 11
5.1.1 Tips for the workspace ............................................................................................................... 12
5.2 Creating a new project .............................................................................................................................. 12
5.2.1 Distinction standard project and global project. ........................................................................ 13
5.2.2 Possibilities for application ......................................................................................................... 14
5.2.3 Creating a project with the wizard ............................................................................................. 15
5.3 Engineering of the project ........................................................................................................................ 16
5.3.1 Functionality of the properties window ..................................................................................... 17
5.3.2 Favorites in the properties window ........................................................................................... 17
5.3.3 Runtime view .............................................................................................................................. 18
5.3.4 Project description ..................................................................................................................... 19
5.4 Several projects in one workspace............................................................................................................ 20
5.5 Practical tips for projects .......................................................................................................................... 21
5.6 Introductory information on this tutorial ................................................................................................. 21
5.6.1 Color Palettes ............................................................................................................................. 22
5.6.2 Global symbol library .................................................................................................................. 25

6. The Editor - a description ........................................................................................................... 25

6.1 The window of the zenon Editor ............................................................................................................... 26
6.2 Editor settings ........................................................................................................................................... 28
6.3 Incorporating menu tools ......................................................................................................................... 28
6.4 Editing the window behavior .................................................................................................................... 30
6.5 Configuring the Editor profile ................................................................................................................... 31
6.5.1 Customizing the Editor ............................................................................................................... 31

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7. Backup ...................................................................................................................................... 32
7.1 Backup of the workspace .......................................................................................................................... 33
7.1.1 Create backup............................................................................................................................. 33
7.1.2 Rollback ...................................................................................................................................... 33
7.2 Backup of the project ................................................................................................................................ 34
7.2.1 Versioning of project backups .................................................................................................... 34
7.2.2 Project backups .......................................................................................................................... 35
7.2.3 Creating a project backup .......................................................................................................... 35
7.2.4 Restoring a project ..................................................................................................................... 36
7.2.5 Forwarding projects ................................................................................................................... 37
7.2.6 save project copy ........................................................................................................................ 37
7.3 Backup Comparison Wizard ...................................................................................................................... 38

8. Variables ................................................................................................................................... 39
8.1 Drivers ....................................................................................................................................................... 40
8.1.1 Configuration of a new driver .................................................................................................... 40
8.1.2 Driver configuration ................................................................................................................... 42
8.2 Data Types................................................................................................................................................. 42
8.2.1 Pre-installed data types .............................................................................................................. 43
8.2.2 Overview of the data types supported by zenon: ...................................................................... 44
8.2.3 Creating a new simple data type ................................................................................................ 47
8.2.4 Creating a new structure datatype ............................................................................................. 50
8.2.5 Tips for data types ...................................................................................................................... 53
8.3 Variables.................................................................................................................................................... 54
8.3.1 Creating a new simple variable .................................................................................................. 55
8.3.2 Creating a new structure variable .............................................................................................. 56

9. Functions .................................................................................................................................. 59
9.1 Configuring functions ................................................................................................................................ 60
9.2 Function favorites ..................................................................................................................................... 61

10. Frames and screens ................................................................................................................... 61

10.1 Distinction screens - templates ................................................................................................................. 62
10.2 Frames....................................................................................................................................................... 62
10.2.1 Create new frames ..................................................................................................................... 63
10.3 Screens ...................................................................................................................................................... 66
10.3.1 New screen ................................................................................................................................. 67

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 10.3.2 Configuring the start screen ....................................................................................................... 67
10.3.3 Configuration of tutorial screens................................................................................................ 68
10.3.4 Practical tips for screens............................................................................................................. 68

11. Screen elements ........................................................................................................................ 69

11.1 Vector elements ........................................................................................................................................ 69
11.1.1 Static text.................................................................................................................................... 69
11.1.2 Font lists ..................................................................................................................................... 70
11.1.3 Tutorial configuration example .................................................................................................. 71
11.2 Dynamic elements..................................................................................................................................... 72
11.2.1 Clock ........................................................................................................................................... 73
11.2.2 Button ......................................................................................................................................... 73
11.2.3 Screen Functions ........................................................................................................................ 79
11.2.4 Other screen elements ............................................................................................................... 80
11.2.5 Numerical value .......................................................................................................................... 83
11.2.6 Project configuration with symbols ............................................................................................ 89
11.2.7 Bar display .................................................................................................................................. 91
11.2.8 Pointer instrument ..................................................................................................................... 94
11.2.9 Universal slider ........................................................................................................................... 95
11.2.10 Trend element ............................................................................................................................ 97
11.2.11 Dynamic Text .............................................................................................................................. 98
11.2.12 Combined element ................................................................................................................... 100
11.2.13 Switch ....................................................................................................................................... 103
11.2.14 Status Element ......................................................................................................................... 106
11.2.15 Combo-/Listbox ........................................................................................................................ 107
11.2.16 Multibin .................................................................................................................................... 112

12. Multiple use by means of substitution...................................................................................... 125

12.1 Hints for Substitution .............................................................................................................................. 126

13. Screen types ............................................................................................................................ 126

13.1 Configuration of special screen types ..................................................................................................... 127
13.2 Content of special screen types .............................................................................................................. 128
13.3 Screen switch to screen types function .................................................................................................. 130
13.3.1 Switch screen to special screen types function ........................................................................ 130
13.3.2 Applying the function ............................................................................................................... 131
13.4 Your own screen types ............................................................................................................................ 132

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14. Runtime (Online operation) ..................................................................................................... 133
14.1 Start Runtime .......................................................................................................................................... 133
14.2 Working in the Runtime .......................................................................................................................... 133
14.3 Stopping the Runtime ............................................................................................................................. 134
14.4 Configuring Runtime ............................................................................................................................... 134
14.4.1 Use screen Keyboard ................................................................................................................ 135
14.4.2 Keyblock Runtime ..................................................................................................................... 136
14.5 Practical tips for Runtime ........................................................................................................................ 138
14.6 Changing the simulation mode ............................................................................................................... 139
14.7 Changing values in Runtime .................................................................................................................... 139

15. Automated function call .......................................................................................................... 140

15.1 Calling up a function by means of a reaction matrix............................................................................... 141
15.1.1 Reaction matrix - preparing functions ...................................................................................... 141
15.1.2 Reaction matrix - configuring the reaction matrix ................................................................... 141
15.1.3 Reaction matrix - assigning limit values ................................................................................... 143
15.2 Function call when limit value breached ................................................................................................ 144

16. Menus ..................................................................................................................................... 145

16.1 Creating menus ....................................................................................................................................... 145
16.1.1 Properties of the menu configuration ...................................................................................... 147
16.1.2 Configuration of menus ............................................................................................................ 147
16.1.3 Assigning a function ................................................................................................................. 148
16.1.4 Application of menus................................................................................................................ 148
16.1.5 Practical tips for menus ............................................................................................................ 149
16.2 Creating context menus .......................................................................................................................... 150
16.2.1 Setting the parameters of a context menu .............................................................................. 150
16.2.2 Functions for context menus .................................................................................................... 151
16.2.3 Applying a context menu .......................................................................................................... 151

17. Scripts ..................................................................................................................................... 152

17.1 Creating scripts ....................................................................................................................................... 152
17.2 Adding functions to scripts ..................................................................................................................... 153
17.3 Practical tips scripts ................................................................................................................................ 154

18. Project documentation ............................................................................................................ 154

18.1 Selecting the documentation contents ................................................................................................... 155

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7
 Willkommen bei der COPA-DATA Hilfe

1. Willkommen bei der COPA-DATA Hilfe

ZENON VIDEO TUTORIAL S

You can find practical examples for project configuration with zenon in our YouTube channel
(https://www.copadata.com/tutorial_menu). The tutorials are grouped according to topics and give an
initial insight into working with different zenon modules. All tutorials are available in English.

GENERAL HELP

If you cannot find any information you require in this help chapter or can think of anything that you
would like added, please send an email to [email protected]
(mailto:[email protected]).

PROJECT SUPPORT

You can receive support for any real project you may have from our Support Team, who you can contact
via email at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

LICENSES AND MODULES

If you find that you need other modules or licenses, our staff will be happy to help you. Email
[email protected] (mailto:[email protected]).

2. First steps
Welcome and thank you for choosing zenon. We want to make the introduction to the use of zenon as
simple and pleasant as possible. The first step in this direction is made with this tutorial. Nevertheless,
an introducing tutorial cannot replace proper training.

This tutorial will introduce you to the basic operation of zenon. Here, you will learn how to create a
project and how to draw screens that display the values from your PLC in dynamic elements.

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 The task

3. The task
The following task must be carried out for this tutorial:
 Water is pumped from a stream with the help of a motor.
 This water is stored in two storage tanks of 20,000 liters each.
 The temperature of the water is monitored with temperature sensors.
 An action is executed in the event that there is a risk of freezing.
 An action is executed in the event that a defined fill level is exceeded.
 An action is executed in the event that a defined fill level is gone below.

THE FOLLOWING WILL B E CARRIED OUT IN THI S TUTORIAL:

 Two tanks and their inflow and outflow pipes will be visualized
 Limit values and alarms for variables will be defined
 In zenon, available elements are presented, discussed and configured individually
 Alarms and system messages are displayed in clear lists
 Implemented in the Runtime menu and button control
 Several steps combined in scripts
 Environment-dependent actions (such as tank full, temperature too low) presented, discussed
and configured.

YOU WILL LEARN HOW YOU ...

 Get to know the Editor as a graphic user interface to create and maintain projects. In doing so,
you will find out how to design your working environment in such a way that it is possible to
work efficiently.
 You will be able to create workspaces in which you administer your projects. You will also get to
know different types of projects and the how to administer properties such as color palettes,
fonts, etc. centrally.
 You will be able to establish communication to your hardware or other data sources with the
help of drivers. Furthermore, you will find out how to create variables as the central interface to
driver object types and data types, and how you can create different data types yourself.
 You will create templates as the basis for your screens and get to know the advantages of
template systems.

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 Working with zenon

 You will be able to design screens with different elements and to display the variable values in
these. You will group symbols and reuse these effectively.
 You will be able to implement the operation of your project with the help of predefined
functions.

4. Working with zenon

In the course of this tutorial you will get a feeling for working with zenon. You will notice that different
challenges will require a similar approach.

Highly simplified, working with zenon can be described as follows:

 You create an object.
It can be a driver, a variable, a screen, a screen element, a schedule, a user ...
 In the next step, you make your settings for this object.
You parameterize your object instead of programming.
 With the help of functions working steps are defined and actions initiated.
These are pre-defined macros that are easy to use and parameterize.
 By applying and combining these elements complex challenges can be carried out with only few
mouse clicks and without time-consuming programming.

Information

An advantage of this procedure is that it is possible to re-use already configured

steps.

5. A new project
In this step, you will learn what workspaces and projects are.

A neutral working area with a project contained therein is created.

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 A new project

TAGs Description
Workspace Is an administrative unit in the zenon Editor, in
which projects are grouped. Only projects that are
inserted into a workspace can be edited in the
Editor.
Project Summary of settings, screens, functions, variables,
recipes etc. for the display of a visualization task.

The projects are created in the Editor.

The Editor data is saved in part in an SQL database
and as binary data. The data can be stored either
locally on the Editor computer or on a central
computer (multi-project compatible). A backup of
projects can be made at any time and this can be
read back on the same computer or a different
computer.

5.1 Creating a new workspace

At the start of the work with zenon, there is the workspace. Projects are created and administered
there. As requirements increase, several projects can be compiled into one workspace and configured.

STEPS TO CREATE A NE W WORKSPACE

 Select the entry Workspace new in the menu File.

 Enter the folder C:\ and enter Basic_Tutorial as the name of the workspace.

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 A new project

 If it does not exist, the folder C:\Basic Tutorial is created and the file Basic
Tutorial.wsp6 is created in it once the dialog box has been confirmed with OK.

Information
The folder name and the name of the workspace file are issued automatically by zenon, but
they can be changed later.

5.1.1 Tips for the workspace

You should organize your workspace according to your working environment. A well structured
workspace increases clarity and efficiency

The following list serves as a guideline

 For integrators:
One workspace for each client
 For engineers:
One workspace for each production location

Select a public folder as storage location of your workspace. The authorization of a workspace is
thus not bound to the creator.

5.2 Creating a new project

To create a new project:

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 A new project

 In the File menu, select the New project command.

 Enter 'TUTORIAL' as the project name and accept the proposed path.

Information
If VBA is activated in your Editor (default setting), the selection dialog for executing a
wizard will open now. Wizards are VBA macros, with which you can automate the work
in the Editor. No wizard is used in this example. Close the Dialog by clicking on Close.
Confirm the subsequent dialog Would you like to save your settings? by clicking on No.

5.2.1 Distinction standard project and global project.

This tutorial works with a standard project. In addition, zenon offers the following project types:
 A Global project only has limited functionality. The objects created in a global project (templates,
fonts, colors, etc.) are also available in every other project of the workspace. For instance, the
templates of the global project can be selected under the name ‘g_Name‘ in the other projects.
In contrast, other settings are only configurable in global projects. For instance, modelling a
plant in the module plant modelling is only possible in global projects.
 The option Multi-user project allows to create a project which can be edited by various engineers
at the same time, with the control system monitoring that an object cannot be edited by two
engineers at the same time.

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 A new project

Both options are not used in this tutorial project.

5.2.2 Possibilities for application

You have different options depending on the task. In the process, note the multiple uses and thus save
yourself additional work.

GLOBAL PROJECT

The global project is available to configure settings that can be reused in the projects. Settings of a
global project are available to all projects in a workspace.

 Design of font lists

 Definition of colors in the color palettes
 Inclusion of general language files - for example zenon system texts

Information

Steps that have already been configured can be reused in zenon.

MULTI-USER PROJECT

A multi-user project is appropriate if several people with different core tasks are working on one project.

 The screen designer is responsible for the appearance and usability. To do this, they create font
lists, screens, buttons, graphics and color palettes, which are not dependent on the technical
configuration.
 Project engineer creates driver and variables
 Technical editor writes documentation and text documents for the project
 The special solution developer takes care of the special configuration of he project, for example
the configuration of a reaction matrix
 The controlling employee configures the SAP interface for their cost invoicing
 ...

Information
Multi-user project allow location-independent project cooperation.

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 A new project

5.2.3 Creating a project with the wizard

In this tutorial, all necessary configurations is shown step-by-step. The wizard is intentionally not used.

The wizard can be started afterwards. This is also possible if you have decided not to use automatic
call-up after the creation of a project In this case, your previous project configuration may be
overwritten.

START WIZARDS

To start a wizard:
 Select, in the File drop-down list, Wizards ...
or
 press the short cut Alt+F12

The wizard for project creation is automatically offered when a new project is created.

Information
VBA must be activated in your Editor in order to be able to use the project wizard
(standard setting).

VBA ACTIVATION IN TH E EDITOR

For wizards to be displayed, the settings for VBA or VSTA must be set correctly in file zenon6.ini:

15
 A new project

[VBA]

EIN=1
[VSTA]

ON=1

If VSTA wizards are not displayed although the settings are correct, set entry LOADED= to 1 in area
[VSTA].

5.3 Engineering of the project

The properties of the TUTORIAL project are displayed in the properties window and can be changed
here.
 Select the workspace in the project manager.
 In the detail view you now see a list of the projects belonging to this workspace.
 Select the TUTORIAL project in the detail view.

The properties window is still used often in this tutorial. Generally, it shows the properties of the object,
which is selected in the detail view of the project manager. The icons on the top border of the
properties window allow you to show the properties in different views:

Information
With the context menu of the properties window you can define which properties should
be displayed in the favorites. Favorites for the properties window are only available in the
grouped view.

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 A new project

5.3.1 Functionality of the properties window

The individual symbols of the properties window offer the following functionality:

Symbol Meaning
Grouped The properties are combined into logical groups.
All properties All properties are shown in a row.
Dialog view The properties are displayed as dialog boxes.
Show/hide favorites In the favorites, you can put together the most frequently used properties by
using the context menu of the property window. Here, you can show or hide
the favorites.
Show/hide all properties If the favorites are shown, you can hide all other properties with this symbol
for a better overview.
Sorted logically With this icon, the displayed properties are sorted according to their logical
connectedness.
Sort ascending With this icon, the displayed properties are sorted in alphabetically
ascending order.
Sort descending With this icon, the displayed properties are sorted in alphabetically
descending order.
Expand all By clicking on the '+' on the left border of the property window, you can
open a closed node. This icon automatically expands all closed nodes.
Reduce all By clicking on the '-' on the left border of the property window, you can
close an expanded node. This icon automatically closes all expanded nodes.
Display properties help A window with the description of the selected property is displayed. To close
the help window, click on the X on the top right-hand corner of the window.

5.3.2 Favorites in the properties window

For virtually every configuration in zenon, the settings are changed in the properties window. You can
group often-used settings concisely by defining favorites.

To do this, carry out the following steps:

 In the properties window, change to the Grouped view.
If the view is empty, select Show/hide all properties.
 Add to the various node items and subpoints with the + symbol.
Alternatively, select the Expand all button from the properties tool bar.

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 A new project

 Add the Graphic design node and the General Runtime node in it.
 Select the Runtime title entry that you want to add to your favorites.
 In the context menu (right mouse click) select Add 'Runtime title' to favorites.

 Your favorites are the first entry in the grouped view.

You can show or hide the favorites by clicking on the 'Show/hide favorites' symbol. in your
properties display

Information
You can also set favorites by dragging & dropping. To do this, select the desired property field
and drag it to the desired location in the 'Favorites' node.

5.3.3 Runtime view

To display the main window with out a title in the Runtime:

 Switch to the grouped view in the zenon Editor.

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 A new project

 Open the Graphical design group.

 Change the 'Runtime title' property to No title (full screen)

This means the program window of the Runtime will be displayed without a title bar.

5.3.4 Project description

Personalize your project configuration:

 To do this, select the General section in the properties window.
 Select the entry ‘Project description’.
 Select Click here ->

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 A new project

A dialog opens:

Enter your data into the input fields. Although all inputs are optional, it is recommended that you make
detailed (and most of all correct) entries.

5.4 Several projects in one workspace

If you are using several projects, one of the projects is emphasized in bold in the workspace window.
This marks the "start project". The start project is used in online mode and simulation mode. It is always
the start project that is displayed in Runtime. Only one project can be stipulated as the start project.

To change the start project:

 Select a project in the workspace window
 Select the "Activate project" command in the context menu (right mouse click).

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 A new project

KEEP PROJECT IN MEMORY

If you are using several projects, you see the structure tree of the currently-active project. The
deactivated projects do not have a structure tree in their respective view.

In order to be able to not have to access the structure of non-active projects, select Keep project in
memory in the context menu (right mouse click) on a deactivated project.

5.5 Practical tips for projects

 If you are using several projects in a workspace, take this into account when naming your
configuration. Place a code for your project in front of each function, variable etc.
 If a new directory is created with each new workspace, all important data for this workspace is
available together.
 Projects within a workspace can be moved by dragging & dropping
 Configurations of a project can be reused in any desired project of a workspace.

5.6 Introductory information on this tutorial

A project will be covered step-by-step in this tutorial.

The following information will be described briefly in advance. This configuration will be referred to
during the course of the project:

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 A new project

5.6.1 Color Palettes

Color palettes make it possible to compile individual colors into color palettes. You can define color set
such as this, that can be easily edited, both in the editor and in Runtime. All colors that are defined with
the help of palette colors can be easily changed over with this.

The uniform design of Corporate Designs (CD) can be completed very quickly in this way. If necessary,
the design can be centrally changed in full (change palette) or only individual colors can be changed
(change color in palette).

Colors that are configured in color palettes are available in zenon. You will now use the following
configuration as the project progresses through this tutorial.

This is how you configure the color palette

 In the project manager, open the node Screens.
 Open Activate the context menu of the Color palettes entry with the right mouse button.
 Select the New color palette entry.

 Select New color in the detail view of the project manager.

 For the description, enter Freezing.
 Select #0000FF as the color
 Define four other colors in accordance with the requirements below:

 Configure three other colors as limit value colors for the fill level of your water tank:

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 A new project

Information
If a color in a color palette is changed, this color changes wherever it was used in your
configuration.

If you configure the same color to be used for several fill levels, you should nevertheless configure two
colors. They thus remain flexible for subsequent changes.

Other colors in this tutorial

You will use colors for different topics in this tutorial. The exact application of these colors is described
in more detail in the respective chapter.

Prepare this already at this stage in accordance with the following:

Information
The colors of the images are proposals. You can amend these as you wish.

A second color palette

Once you have configured the colors of your tutorial project with the help of color palettes, you now
have an additional option to get to know advance color administration.

You can configure alternative colors for your configured colors. It is possible to select between the two
color worlds using a function.

For the configuration of other color palettes:

 In the project manager, open the Screens node.

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 A new project

 Open Activate the context menu of the Color palettes entry with the right mouse button.
 Select the New color palette entry.

 Change to the Color group in the properties window.

 Select, with ..., a new color, for example: #C0C0C0
All colors are automatically highlighted once a color palette has been created. As a result
of this, a new color is automatically assigned to the complete new color palette. If this
highlighting is not active, you can get this back by clicking on the heading 'Color palette 1'. You
can of course assign each color to your own color palette. However in this tutorial, the color
palette 1 is assigned the same for all colors.

Color switching function

To be able to use your different color palettes, configure a corresponding function.

To do this, carry out the following steps:

 Create a new function
 In the Function selection dialog that now opens, open the Application folder by clicking on [+].
 Select the Switch color palette function
 In the Switch color palette dialog that opens, select Color palette 0 from the drop-down list.

 Close the dialog with OK and switch to the General group in the properties window.
 In the Name properties field, enter switch_color_table_1_color as the function name.

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 The Editor - a description

Information
Select "Show this dialog in Runtime" in order to give Runtime users the possibility to
select the color palettes.

Configure another color switching function with Color palette 1 as an objective and
switch_color_table_1_black as the name. There is the option to can activate Show this dialog in Runtime
here.

Information
This configuration will be actively used during the progress of this project.

5.6.2 Global symbol library

You will also use graphics for visualization during the course of this tutorial. You can of course use your
own graphics files.

However in this tutorial you will only use graphics included in the zenon global symbol library.

Information

The global symbol library is a selection of graphics available for your configuration.

6. The Editor - a description

The zenon Editor is the user interface where your projects are "made" and administered. In it, you can
image all process steps and make them controllable.

The person is the main focus with zenon. For this reason, the editor also offers much help that will make
day-to-day work easier for you.

25
 The Editor - a description

6.1 The window of the zenon Editor

The zenon Editor is the central element of your project configuration. The Editor window and its
functions will be explained here once again in order to aid understanding of the tutorial:

The Editor´s user interface consists of different areas:

26
 The Editor - a description

Element Contents
01 - Toolbars: A collection of Toolbars for the Editor and its modules. They are
available for:
 Dockable windows
 Alignment
 Screens / Symbols
 Editor profiles
 Elements
 Menu bar
 Production & Facility Scheduler
 Remote Transport
 Report Generator
 Runtime Files
 Visibility levels
 VBA macros
02 - Project Manager: Tree view of the Project Manager.
03 - Detail view of the Project Details for the module selected in the Project Manager.
Manager:
04 - Main window: Main work space; here documents such as screens or reports are
displayed.
05 - Toolbar elements: Toolbar for screen elements - vector elements and dynamic
elements.
06 - Properties Displays the properties of a selected object. Three modes are
available and can be selected from the Properties toolbar.
07 - Properties help: Displays short help messages for properties of screens, variables,
functions and other elements which can be engineered.
08 - Output window Messages are displayed here if projects are compiled and sent to
Runtime.
09 - Status bar: Shows status information for Editor readiness and screens.
10 - Toolbar properties: Defines display and sorting options of the properties, shows
Properties help.
11 - Cross-reference list:

You choose which windows are shown:

 in the Drop-down list under Options or

The arrangement of the windows can be adjustedindividually. Just the main window cannot be hidden.

27
 The Editor - a description

6.2 Editor settings

You set the initial settings for the appearance and behavior of the Editor in the basic settings.

This is how you change the basic settings of your Editor:

1. Open the Settings dialog from the Options menu line
2. Select your settings in the individual tabs

Information
zenon offers different options to adapt your Editor to your requirements. It is advisable to
make use of the possibilities offered by this adaptation in order to work efficiently.

6.3 Incorporating menu tools

You can integrate programs on your computer directly into the menu of zenon with the help of the
menu tools. The programs that are incorporated individually this way appear at the end of the Tools
menu.

This is how you incorporate tools into the zenon Editor menu:
 Open the settings window by selecting, in the Tools menu bar, the Settings entry

28
 The Editor - a description

 Go to the Menu Tools tab

 Add your application with New...

 Select the application on your computer - the calculator is added to the Editor in this tutorial.
You can find this program on your computer: C:\Windows\system32, Filename:
calc.exe
 Name the menu entry in the Menu text input field as Calculator
 Confirm the input with OK.

Check your Tool configuration menu by opening the Tools menu bar. The calc.exe program with the
Calculator entry is now at the end of the menu bar.

29
 The Editor - a description

Information
You personalize the menu bar of your Editor in order to call up programs quickly in zenon.

6.4 Editing the window behavior

You can amend the window behavior of your zenon very easily.

It is merely important that you always call up the context menu (mouse + right click) directly in the
bar with the window heading. In this example, it is on the left next to the Project Manager heading.

UNANCHORED

This selection opens the selected window in its own window.

DOCK (DEFAULT)

Positions the selected window in the position envisaged in zenon

SWITCH IN THE MAIN W INDOW

Displays the selected window in its own tab in the main window.

FADE OUT AUTOMATICAL LY

Hides the selected window. If the mouse is moved over the tab of the hidden window, the window is
shown automatically

30
 The Editor - a description

6.5 Configuring the Editor profile

You can save the window layouts of your Editor permanently using the Editor profile.

THIS IS HOW YOU CONF IGURE YOUR EDITOR PR OFILE

 Call up the Editor profile toolbar. If the toolbar is not displayed, it can be activated using the View
-> Toolbars menu.
 Compile the window of your Editor according to your optimum requirements for each module.
To do this, select a module in the project tree and arrange the window of your Editor as you
want it.
 Select a level of the Editor profile for this view
 Name this level with Assign individual names to Editor profile
 Save each setting with Save selected Editor profile
 When a module is called up from the project manager node, your Editor automatically switches
to the configured view.

If the automatic saving of the Editor profile function is activated, your settings are saved directly
to your personalized profile. An extra save function is thus no longer necessary.

6.5.1 Customizing the Editor

Editor profiles are views of the Editor that can be applied to modules. When the respective module is
called up from the project manager, the attendant window is shown in the respective Editor profile.

31
 Backup

EXAMPLE:

This function is much clearer when explained using an example. Look at the interaction of the windows
in zenon.
 To do this, call up the 'Variables' node in the project manager.
 In comparison to this, call up the 'Screens' node in the project manager.

You will notice that an "additional" window is necessary for appropriate configuration of screens.

Because this window is not needed for variables, it takes up space as a result. With the help of the Editor
profiles in zenon, you can create views depending on program modules.

Information
You return to the default view with the Load standard profile view.

7. Backup
Everybody is familiar with the frustration when the work you have been doing in the past few hours or
even days is suddenly lost. A backup can help you here.

Timely and regular updates can save time and avoid frustration. For this reason, this topic is covered at
the start of this tutorial.

The following two options are available:

 Backup of the workspace
 Backup of a project

32
 Backup

Information

Back up your work regularly. Even if you are facing a new challenge, a backup can
help you return to a functional state.

7.1 Backup of the workspace

The backup of a workspace includes all projects contained therein. Backups of workspaces are saved as
*.wsb files. The name can freely be defined.

7.1.1 Create backup

To create a backup of the whole workspace:

 Select the entry Workspace -> Create backup from the context menu of the workspace.

7.1.2 Rollback

With opened/closed workspace:

33
 Backup

 Select the Workspace ->Restore backup entry from the context menu of the workspace.

You now can select a backup and define the folder, to which the workspace should be restored.

7.2 Backup of the project

In contrast to backing up workspaces, the project backup options always apply to the selected project
only. Other projects in the workspace are not backed up at the same time.

This affects the General symbol library most of all, as well as global projects.

7.2.1 Versioning of project backups

Project backups can also be versioned. Versions are identified and sorted according to numbering and
date/time of their creation.

To activate versioning:
 navigate to the General node in the project properties
 Navigate to the Versioning area
 Activate the Versioning property.
 Assign a main number in the Main version: property

34
 Backup

With this for each project backup a number for the project version is created. This consists of the main
version and an internally-assigned detail number, separated by a decimal point. This detail number is
incremented for each project backup. The version of a project backup is displayed in:
 the detail view of node project backup
 in the dialog for restoring a backup in the workspace

7.2.2 Project backups

zenon offers its own node in the project tree for making project backups.

You can find these in the project tree at the last position:

7.2.3 Creating a project backup

In order to make project backups as simple as possible, use the internal project backup in zenon. With
this, you do not need to worry about SQL database migrations, issuing permissions and changes to
MS-SQL.

To prepare a project backup:

35
 Backup

 In the project manager, change to the 'Project backups' node.

 With the context menu (mouse + right click), select Create backup... .

 In the backup dialog that opens, enter Name and Description.

The project backups that you have previously saved are displayed and administered in the detail view:

7.2.4 Restoring a project

Proceed as follows to restore your project:

 In the project manager, switch to the 'Project backups' node.
 Select the desired backup in the detail list.
 Select, using the context menu or symbol:
 Restore backup...
 Restore backup as new project...

Information
If the backup to be loaded does not appear in your project backup list in the detail
window, you must first make this available by importing the backup.
To do this, select Import backups... in the context menu of the project backups

36
 Backup

7.2.5 Forwarding projects

A project backup is also best suited for the forwarding of your project to a project partner or customer.

In this case, carry out the following steps:

 Select a project backup from the detail list
 Select the Export backup... context menu or symbol
 In the subsequent dialog, select the save location of your project backup.

Information
Your project backup is automatically saved as a .zip file.

READING IN A PROJECT

In the event that you are sent a project configuration for further work, the procedure is the reverse:
 First import the project backup.
 Then select the project backup that has just been imported in the detail list.
 The procedure is the same if you read back a backup

7.2.6 save project copy

The Save project as ... command creates a copy and automatically inserts this to the current
workspace. You can also use this command to create a copy of your configuration and to then forward
this.

To create a project backup:

 Select the project in the project tree.
 In the Project manager, right-click on Project and select Save as.... .
 The dialog for project backup is opened:

37
 Backup

Information

At the backup of the workspace, all projects of the workspace are backed up, too.
They are however not contained in the project back up and cannot be restored
individually.

7.3 Backup Comparison Wizard

If you want to compare two backups with one another, you use the corresponding wizard.

zenon provides the Backup Comparsion Wizard in the Project folder. This compares two the desired
content in two backups.

This is how you call up the Backup Comparsion Wizard:

 In the menu bar, select Tools -> Start Editor wizards....
 Open the Project folder and select the Backup Comparsion Wizard

In the 'Settings' tab, select:

38
 Variables

 The backups that you want to compare (Latest version / Older version)
 The contents of the module that you want to compare.

8. Variables
In this step, you will learn how zenon connects to a process and how it receives values from the PLC.

To do this:
 A driver is created for communication with the PLC.
 Simple and structured data types are used and configured
 Simple and structures variables are configured, based on data types and drivers

A driver is created in the next tutorial step. The corresponding variables are then defined.

39
 Variables

Information
Communication to a PLC is enabled with the help of drivers.
Data types define the logic.
Variables interact using this method of communication and define control processes.

8.1 Drivers

To communicate with a data source (PLC field bus, etc.) it is necessary to connect to a driver. Drivers are
the interface between zenon Runtime as the HMI and the PLC as the point of execution. Different PLCs
for different equipment can be addressed with the respective driver in zenon.

At the start of the project, the desired drivers must be defined (depending on the PLC, etc.) and their
process variables must be created.

Information

In Hardware mode, zenon would immediately attempt to establish a connection to

the PLC when Runtime is started. Because there is no PLC available in this tutorial,
zenon would display all values as invalid.

8.1.1 Configuration of a new driver

To create a new driver:

 Open the node Variables in the project manager.
 Open Activate the context menu of the Drivers entry with the right mouse button.
 Select the menu entry Driver new.

40
 Variables

The dialog box to select a driver opens.

In the selection for available drivers, scroll until the Siemens folder appears.
Note: entering the first letter moves the selection to the folders with the corresponding letters.
Example: Entering s i jumps to the Siemens folder.
 Open the tree view by clicking on [+].
 Choose the driver S7 TCP-IP. The entry is put in the field Driver name as shown in the dialog box
Definition of driver. Leave the dialog box by confirming the selection with OK.

Now the dialog for the configuration of the driver opens.

Information
Drivers for internal variables, math variables and system variables are automatically
preinstalled when a project is created.

41
 Variables

8.1.2 Driver configuration

Now configure you driver:

 Set the mode to Simulation (counting).

In Hardware mode, zenon would immediately try to connect to a real PLC when
Runtime is started. However because this is very probably not available, zenon would display all
values as invalid if the Hardware mode is selected.
 Switch off global update time.
With this setting, there is the possibility to assign one of four different update
times to each individual variable when defining variables. These four update times can be set in
the lower part of this dialog, under Priority.

The other tabs of this dialog are driver-specific, i.e. different according to the selected driver. These
other settings can be disregarded in this tutorial, because no real PLC is being addressed.

8.2 Data Types

A data type is a variable template without connection to the process. This connection to the process is
only established with the driver object type for the variable.

In addition to the pre-defined data types, you can create your own data types. Two possibilities are
available here: Simple data types and structure data types.

In this step, you will learn how to create simple and structure datatypes.

42
 Variables

Information

The properties are each referenced by the data type on which they are based. If a
property of the data type is changed, it is also changed for all variables that have
been created with this data type. As a result of this, changes to a data type do not
need to be "changed" individually for each variable.

8.2.1 Pre-installed data types

These are delivered together with zenon and are immediately available when a new variable is created.
They conform to the standardized simple data types of IEC 61131-3 such as INT, USINT etc. They
define a set value range (fixed upper and lower limit) with a defined number of values. That is why real
numbers can only be depicted as float-point numbers with a certain accuracy.

Information

The properties of the simple data types can be changed. The names of these data
types always match with the names of the basic IEC data types, these and the IEC
data types cannot be deleted or renamed.

The data types only become visible in zenon, once a driver is created. Each driver opens a list of data
types it supports.

43
 Variables

Attention
Changes in the properties of the data types affect all linked variables and thus also affect all
linked structure data types.

8.2.2 Overview of the data types supported by zenon:

Short name Long name Comment / value range Numbe

r of bits

44
 Variables

BOOL Boolean Bit: 0/1 1

BYTE
SINT Short integer Signed byte: 8
-128 to 127
USINT Unsigned short integer Byte: 0 to 255 8
INT Integer Signed word: 16
-32768 to 32767
UINT Unsigned integer Word: 0 to 65535 16
DINT Double integer Signed double: 32
-2147483648 to 2147483647
UDINT Unsigned double Double: 32
integer
0 to 4294967295
LINT Long Integer Because zenon cannot hold the value range 64 or 52
of a 64 bit number, the actual value range
is restricted to 52 bits. Numbers with signs
are possible from –2251799813685248 to
2251799813685247. Numbers outside of
this range cause a overflow or underflow,
according to a 52-bit integer.
The following components work with a full
64 bit resolution in the zenon Runtime:
1. The shared memory VBA
Interface, when the value was
entered in signal resolution.
2. The Logic to SCADA
connection.
3. The driver kit works for the
whole range of 64 bits, and so
do all the drivers, provided the
driver supports this IEC data
type. At the moment, these are
Sample32, Internal and
STRATON32.

RGM and recipes cannot save even a 52

bit value with full accuracy.
ULINT Unsigned long integer Because zenon cannot hold the value range 64 or 52
of a 64 bit number, the actual value range
is restricted to 52 bits. Numbers without
signs are possible from 0 to
4503599627370496. Numbers outside of

45
 Variables

this range cause a overflow or underflow,

according to a 52-bit integer.
The following components work with a full
64 bit resolution in the zenon Runtime:
1. The shared memory VBA
Interface, when the value was
entered in signal resolution.
2. The shared memory zenon
Logic interface.
3. The driver kit works for the
whole range of 64 bits, and so
do all the drivers, provided the
driver supports this IEC data
type. At the moment, these are
Sample32, Internal and
STRATON32.
RGM and recipes cannot save even a 52 bit
value with full accuracy.
REAL Real numbers Real numbers 32
LREAL Real numbers Real numbers 64
STRING Variable-length single ASCII string (the max. string length depends >= 8 x
byte character string on the driver). string
The string length is set to 5 characters by length
default. The correct length is to be given
during configuration if necessary.

WSTRING Variable length Contains multi-byte strings, for example >= N x

strings in Unicode coding (UTF-8 etc). string
multi-byte character
The string length is set to 5 characters by length
string
default. The correct length is to be given
during configuration if necessary.

DATE Date IEC date in steps of 1 day 16

46
 Variables

TIME Duration Duration in the IEC format. IEC time in 32

steps of 1 ms, signed integer

TOD Time of day Time of day in steps of 1 ms 32

DATE_AND_TIME Date and time of day Defines a period of time with 64 bit and is 64
saved in a binary-coded decimal format.

Attention
A subsequent change of the IEC data type explicitly is not recommended!
A number of settings depend on the IEC data type and have to be re-configured by hand if the
IEC data type is changed. (Example: Signal resolution, measuring range, hysteresis, set value
limits, non-linear value adjustment, etc.).

8.2.3 Creating a new simple data type

You can install the your own data types based on pre-installed data types. These each relate to the
respective basic data type.

If a basic or structure data type is amended, these changes are forwarded to all related
projects.

For the creation of a simple data type:

 In the project manager, open the Variables node.
 Open the context menu of the Datatypes entry with the right mouse button.

47
 Variables

 Select the menu entry Structure datatype new.

 Enter Temperature as a name for the new simple data type.

 Select SINT as the basic data type.

By clicking on Finish, the datatype is created and will then be available in the list of datatypes.

Information
Values of -128 to 127 can be edited by selecting the basic data type.

Configuration of the data type

Once a data type has been created, the parameters are set in the properties window.

Carry out the following steps to amend them to the requirements of this tutorial:
 Select the Temperature data type from the list.

48
 Variables

The properties of the Temperature data type are now shown in the property window and can be
configured there.
 Open the General group.

 Open the Value calculation group.

 Change the properties Unit, Decimals, Linear value adjustment and Value range PLC
of the datatype as shown in the illustrations above.
Value adjustment linear Numerical value of temperature sensor; In this example, it defines the lowest
and the highest temperature that is measured.
In this example tutorial, this is a minimum of -10.0 °C and a maximum of +100
°C.

Setting limit values

Limits have the task to trigger a reaction, as soon as a limit or a status is violated or reached. The limit is
entered in the Editor and is fixed for this tutorial.

Limit values can be configured individually per variable or structured in data types.

The kinds of reaction can be manifold.

Color changes, alarms, CEL entries, printouts, function calls, etc.

To create a limit value:

 Select the Temperature data type from the list of data types.
 Open the section Limits in the properties window.
 Select the <New limit value> entry.

A new section with the name Limit[1] is created.

49
 Variables

 Open the section Limit[1].

 Set two further limit values in accordance with the following:

Limit Name
5 °C (minimum) Risk of freezing
75 ° C (maximum) Heat warning
90 °C (maximum) Overheating
 In the Additional attribute[1] property field, select the limit value color from the color palette (on
page 22).

Repeat this parameter setting for all limit values.

Information
The configuration of limit values defines the behavior of numerical variables.

8.2.4 Creating a new structure datatype

Structured data types have, in contrast to simple data types, more complex structures, because several
data types can be combined into one. A structure is actually just a hull that bears the name of the
structure but does not have any properties of its own. These only come with the structure elements,
which you simply add to the structure data type (cf. creating a structure element).
 Open the entry Variables in the Project Manager.
 Activate the context menu of the entry Datatypes with the right mouse button.

50
 Variables

 Select the menu entry Structure datatype new.

 Enter Heating as the name of the new structure data type.

CREATING A STRUCTURE ELEMENT

After you are done with the structure datatype a dialogbox will open, in which you can create the first
structure element of this data type.

 Enter Heating switch as the name of the new structure element.

 Select BOOL as the basic data type. The data type should be embedded.

Information
If a basic data type is embedded in a structure data type, the properties of that data type
can be changed in the structure element independently from the basic data type. There is
no "inheritance".

After finishing the structure element the structure data type is available in the list.

Now create other structure elements in this data type:

51
 Variables

 Open the context menu of the 'Heating' structure data type with the right mouse button.
 Select the New structure element… menu entry.
TAGs Description
Name Temperature sensor
Data type basis Temperature
Structure options Link data type

Project configuration for the datatypes of this tutorial

In addition to the previously-configured heating structure data type, configure the following structure
data types:

TANK

Name Data type Description

Inflow - switch Boolean embedded

Outflow - switch Boolean embedded

Heating element Heating structure data type Linked

(already-configured)

Information
By adding the heating structure data type, all structure elements contained therein are
accepted in the tank structure data type.
In this tutorial, the temperature sensor contained in the heating structure element is
used for both the display of the water temperature and for the automatic control of the
heating.

MOTOR

Name Data type Description

Fuel tank USINT embedded
Speed UDINT embedded
Motor temperature Temperature (structure element) embedded

The temperature data type is embedded in this example. Independent limit values can be configured as
a result of this.

52
 Variables

Differentiation: Embedded - linked

You have used two types of inclusion when creating the structured data types for heating: linked and
embedded. A short explanation of the difference:

LINKED:

The linked data type is only a reference to an pre-existing data type. This means you take over all
properties from that data type into your structure, except the name.

If your structure element has many properties of an already existing data type, you can
simply reuse that data type, again applying the central approach. If the basic data type is changed, all
linked elements are changed in the same way!

Information
Of course, you can still change each of the variable properties or separate them from the
data type. However, if you want to ensure that the data type is only used for this
structure and you want to be able to make changes to the addressing settings, choose
your own embedded data type. This creates a new data type that can only be used within
this structure.

EMBEDDED:

Embedded elements can have properties that differ from their original data types. The properties are
defined individually for each structure element and are saved there.

If the original data type is changed, the embedded variables do not inherit these changes.

8.2.5 Tips for data types

 Whenever possible, create your data type as a structure element.
 Note the naming here. Differentiation: Tank < = > storage tank
 Tank is more general, and thus can be used more variably
 Storage tank is specific and thus easier to identify, however not to be used for oil tank
Use general descriptions for structure data types.
 Create overlaps when configuring your project in order to allow re-use

53
 Variables

 Use unique object names which differ from each other not only by case sensitivity.

Information
zenon provides an initial setup for common data types for basic installations. These basic
data types are in line with the IEC 61131-3 standard.

8.3 Variables

A process variable is the interface between the data source (PLC, field bus, etc.) and zenon. For correct
detection and open-loop/closed control of a process, it is necessary to have an exchange of process data
on the one hand and the input of setpoint values and commands on the other hand. Process data and
settings are defined for single process variables and the parameters are entered and changed in the
variable list.

HOW VARIABLES WORK

Each variable is based on an data type (IEC data type or your own structure data types). On creating a
new variable a data type has to be selected. The data type has the same properties as the variable itself
(unit, signal resolution, limits, etc.).

All properties of the data type are inherited to the variable. A reference to the properties of the data
type is established, i.e. if a property of the data type is changed, it is also changed in all variables linked
to that data type.

In this step, you will learn how to create single variables and variable arrays, which are based on simple
or structure data types.

Information
Many zenon drivers offer you the possibility to import variables from the PLC program or
directly from the PLC, which means that you do not have to create the variables
manually.
You will find the necessary information for the variable import in the according driver
documentation.

Because you have neither a PLC nor an S7 project in this example project, the variables will be created
manually.

54
 Variables

8.3.1 Creating a new simple variable

Carry out the following steps to create a variable:

 In the project manager, activate the context menu of the Variables entry by right clicking.
 Select the menu entry Variable new.

The dialog box for creating a variable opens.

 Enter Temperature sensor as the name.

 Choose the driver S7TCP32 - S7 TCP-IP
 Select Ext. as the driver object type Data block.
 Select Temperature as the data type.

Information
Always use logical names for the process variables in order to keep a better overview.

55
 Variables

8.3.2 Creating a new structure variable

You will now create other variables, but this time for a structure data type. Therefore proceed as
described above.
 Enter Water pump as a name.
 Select the datatype Motor.
 Under 'Array', set Start index is 1 settings.

 Activate the option Automatic addressing.

 Leave the Each data type starts with a new offset and Activate all elements
settings as proposed by the system.
 Select Ext. as the driver object type Data block.
 Set the start offset to 21.
You set the start offset in the Addressing property group in the Start Offset: property
field

56
 Variables

Variables with arrays

You can create multiple variables of the same type by changing the corresponding settings in the array
settings area.

Imagine the following task:

In this tutorial project, a route of approximately 1,000 meters is to be laid between a stream and a
storage tank. The temperature is to be measured every 200 meters.

For this task, you will configure the four heating stations in just one work step.

Carry out the following steps:

 In the project manager, activate the context menu of the Variables entry by right clicking.
 Select the menu entry Variable new.
 Name this/these variable(s) Heating line.
 Select Heating as the data type (the previously configured data type).
 Set the Dim 1 array to 4.

 Set the settings you require according to the image.

 Confirm the settings with Finish.

57
 Variables

The variables now are added to the variable list in the detail view of the project manager. All properties
of the Heating structured data type are thus carried over into the variables. The properties of the
selected variable can be checked and changed in the properties window.

Four heating units, including the variables contained in these are created by changing the array
dimension. These variables are automatically addressed due to the settings, i.e. you only need to issue
one Start Offset. The other addresses are calculated automatically by zenon.
 In the 'Addressing' property group, set the Start offset property to 50.

Configuration of variables

Then create a variable with two arrays for your storage tank:
 Create a new variable.
 Name this variable Storage tank.
 Select Tank as the data type (the already-configured data type).
 Set the Dim 1 array to 2.
 Confirm the settings with Finish.
 In the 'Addressing' property group, set the Start offset property to 100.

The variable list in the detail view of the project manager now should have the following entries.

58
 Functions

Configuring the view

If you do not have all the described columns displayed in the overview of the detail list for the variables
of a water tank that have been created, you can display these.

Carry out the following steps to display columns in the detail list:

 Place your mouse cursor over the heading column of the variables in the detail view
 Select Select column... from the context menu.
 Select Offset from the context menu in the left list of available columns and add this, with Add
->, to the Selected columns: view.

9. Functions
Working steps are shown in zenon with functions.
 Functions are available, sorted into groups.

59
 Functions

 Often-used functions can be efficiently managed via 'Favorites'.

 Several functions can be combined into a function using scripts.

9.1 Configuring functions

To call up functions, proceed as follows:

 In the project manager, open the node Functions.
 Open Activate the context menu of the New functions menu with the right mouse button.
 Select the End Runtime menu entry.
This function is in the 'Application' function group.
 Name your newly-created function RT-quit.
 Create another "reload" function and name this RT-reload.

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 Frames and screens

9.2 Function favorites

You will use functions frequently. You can use 'Favorites' to carry out your work more efficiently.

This is how you create function favorites:

 In the project manager, open the node Functions.
 Open Activate the context menu of the New functions menu with the right mouse button.
 Select the desired function and move this with the mouse button held down to the first Favorites
folder.
 Alternatively, press the left mouse button and select Add to favorites in the context menu.

10. Frames and screens

In this step, you will learn how to create screens in zenon, allowing you to visualize and operate
facilities.

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 Frames and screens

Information
Screens define the look of your project configuration.

10.1 Distinction screens - templates

Two types are distinguished for visualizing your configuration:

FRAMES

Frames form the basis for the layout of the window and the screens displayed during the Runtime. You
structure the display on the screen and determine the position. Each screen is assigned to a frame and
displayed in the screen area defined by the frame. Templates determine general window properties
such as position, size and appearance.

SCREENS

Screens are central elements of a project. They display the configured equipment, inform, and provide
user elements.

Information
Templates define the frame.
Screens define the contents of these frames.

10.2 Frames

A frame is the basis for the window technique. This is where general settings are made, like:
 Size of frame = Size of screen
 Position of the screen on the screen
 Breakdown of the screens if several monitors are used ("What is shown and where?")

This offers the following advantages:

 A consistent structure of screens throughout the project.

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 Frames and screens

 Size and position only has to be set once.

 Changing a frame will change all the screens based on it.
 Functions can especially refer to one frame (Alarms: Ackn. flashing, Hardcopy, etc.)
 Screens rarely have to be closed by hand, as there can only be one screen of a frame open at a
time.

Information
At least two templates should always be configured:
1 screen template for content
1 Navigation template ("button template")

DEFAULT TEMPLATES

When creating a new project, the template for alarm messages is configured automatically; template
name: ALARM STATUS LINE.

When using the project wizard, the templates MAIN, NAVIGATION and SUBNAVIGATION are
created.

10.2.1 Create new frames

At least one frame must be created before the first screen can be configured.

Carry out the following steps to create a template:

 Open the node Screens in the Project Manager and select the entry Frames.
 Create a new frame with New frame in the context menu.

a frame with the name Frame 1 is automatically calculated.

Information
If there is no frame when creating a screen, then zenon automatically creates a default
frame that fills the whole screen in runtime.

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Content template

The parameters for these are set in the following step once the first template has been created. These
settings are - as usual - set up in the properties window. The size of the frame is set to the current
screen resolution by default.

In this example, the template that has just been created is to contain the content area. This should be
displayed over the whole area of the screen.

 Change the properties of the frame as shown in the illustration above.

Navigation template(s)

Create an additional template for the navigation area. In this example, a navigation bar with button
control is to be configured in the lower corner of the screen.

Carry out the following steps for this positioning:

 Open the node Screens in the Project Manager and select the entry Frames.
 With Frame new in the context menu you create a new frame.
 Name the new template Navigation and assign it a color from the color palette as a background
color, for example nav_background_navi.

Positioning a frame

There are two possibilities to position a frame:

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SETTING THE PARAMETE RS USING THE PROPERTIES WINDOW:

To do this, enter the following in the properties window in the Position group:

SETTING THE PARAMETE RS USING THE FRAME E DITOR:

The frame editor offers the possibility to set up the sizes of frames graphically.
 Highlight the 'Navigation' frame in the detail view of the frames
 Open the context menu of the Open frame editor entry with the right mouse button.

 The main window opens

 You can select a frame by clicking the mouse in this main window.
 The size can be changed with the mouse by moving the anchor points.

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Information
Hide the other frames for a better overview in the frame editor. To do this, deactivate the
checkbox in the 'Display' column in the detail list.

Configuration of the second frame for subnavigation

Now configure a second frame for subnavigation:

 In the detail list of the frames, use the Copy context menu to copy the existing Navigation
frame.
 Create a copy using the context menu and Insert.
 In the properties window, in the General group, rename the copy of the Navigation frame to
Sub_Navigation.

10.3 Screens

Screens are central elements of a project. They display the configured equipment, inform, and provide
user elements.
 A screen is a window with special predefined properties.
 Screens consist of vector elements and/or dynamic elements.
 These are linked with variables or functions.
 Screens are configured in the main window of the Editor.
 Each screen must be assigned a frame.

Information

You can also create a screen in a new project without having created a frame before.
In this case however, zenon automatically creates a frame with the default settings in the
background.

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10.3.1 New screen

To configure a new screen, carry out the following steps:

 In the project manager, highlight the nodeScreens.
 With New screen in the context menu you create a new screen.

A screen with the name "Screen 0" is automatically created. You can change the properties of the screen
in the property window.
 In the General group, enter the name Complete overview screen name and ensure that the screen
is a standard screen type.
 In the Frame section, ensure that the screen is assigned to the Main frame.

 Create a screen named "Navigation bar". Assign the Navigation frame to this screen.

Information
The background color is automatically referenced by the assigned frame.

10.3.2 Configuring the start screen

The following settings are necessary so that Runtime knows which screen is to be loaded when starting
up:
 Select your project, TUTORIAL, in the project manager.
 Select the 'Graphic design' group in the properties window
 In the Runtime general group there, in Main templates:, click on the Click here-> ... button.

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 Frames and screens

 Select, in the Templates window, Frame_Main.

Information
The first screen configured is automatically entered in the project properties under
the Start screen property in the Graphic design group. This screen will be opened
automatically when the Runtime is started.

10.3.3 Configuration of tutorial screens

Now configure other screens that will be filled with content during the course of this tutorial. Ensure
that 'Main' (already configured) is always given as a frame:
 Line overview
 Storage tank 1

An image is intentionally not created for the planned second storage tank. This second tank is
substituted in a subsequent chapter.

10.3.4 Practical tips for screens

 Configure an empty standard screen for tests. Give this a name, such as Test or Temporary. In this
screen, you can try out configurations, test partial configurations place symbols for editing ...
 use unique screen names
 If you are using global projects or several projects in one workspace, put a short description in
front: for example water_storage_tank, motor_fuel_tank

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11. Screen elements

Generally speaking, there are two different types of elements that can be used in a screen.
Vector elements The appearance of these elements in the Runtime always stays the same.
Dynamic elements These elements change their appearance in the Runtime (usually depending on the value of a varia

11.1 Vector elements

Vector elements, in contrast to dynamic elements, which we will be covered later in this tutorial, do not
change their appearance in Runtime. They are used for graphical background information.

11.1.1 Static text

Start by placing some text in your start screen. Ensure that you have displayed the elements window.

If this element is hidden, you can show this with Options => Toolbars => Elements .
 Change to the 'Screens' node in the project manager.
 You open the screen in the main window by double clicking on Complete overview in the
detail view
 Select the Static text element.

 In the complete overview screen, press the left mouse button on the desired location and hold it
down while pulling up a square.

In the property window, the properties of the elements can now be amended. If the properties of an
element are subsequently changed, you select the corresponding element in the screen by clicking on it
with the left mouse button. The properties are then available in the properties window again.

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This procedure is the same for all elements.

 Enter Complete overview of water in the 'Display/text' field.

 Assign your text the font 5 - Standardfont5.
To select the font, click on ... and select the corresponding font style from the font list that
opens.
 Place the text frame at the top left in your Complete overview screen.

11.1.2 Font lists

Just as with, for example, colors, data types or variables, format templates are also administered
centrally for texts.

To configure font lists, proceed as follows:

 In the project manager, open the nodeScreens.
 Open Activate the context menu of the Font lists entry with the right mouse button.

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 Select the New font menu entry.

 Select New font in the detail view of the project manager,

 Enter, as a description, Buttontitle-black in the properties window.

 Create a new font named Buttontitle-white.

 Select the same settings as for Buttontitle-black with the exception of the color. Select the
color white for this font.

11.1.3 Tutorial configuration example

The next step is to place a heading for a storage tank.

 Change to the 'Screens' node in the project manager.
 Double clicking on Storage tank 1 in the detail view opens the screen in the main window
 Select the Static text element.

 In the complete overview screen, press the left mouse button on the desired location and hold it
down while pulling up a square. Place this on the upper edge of the screen, in the center
horizontally.
 Now write Storage tank in the Display/text properties field.

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 Assign your text the font 5 - Standardfont5.

To select the font, click on ... and select the corresponding font style from the font list that
opens.

CHANGING A FONT

In order to now amend the appearance of your headings, make the corresponding changes in the font
list. This means you only have to change the font style once.
 In the project manager, switch to the Font lists in the Screens node.
 Select the Standardfont5 font.
 Select, in the properties window, the ... button in the Font type: properties field.
 The font type dialog opens.
 Change your font there:
 Font style: Black
 Font size: 36

Note that the appearance of the heading in your 'Storage tank 1' screen and 'Complete overview'
screens changes.

11.2 Dynamic elements

As opposed to vector elements, dynamic elements change their appearance in the Runtime.

Dynamic elements are used to display variable values or to execute functions.

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11.2.1 Clock

The first dynamic element you will place is a clock display in the navigation bar.

Proceed in the following way:

 Open the Navigation bar screen.
 Select the Clock entry in the Elements tool bar.

 With the left mouse button pressed down you now drag the dynamic element to the navigation
bar (approximately 40 pixels high and 200 pixels wide). Place your clock display at the right
corner of your navigation bar screen.
 Now switch to the property window and set the parameters for your clock element:
Property group Property field Description
Representation Font: 6 - Buttontitle-black
Two-lined display Inactive

Colors Transparent active

Runtime Tooltip: System time

11.2.2 Button

First you will create buttons for the navigation bar, with which
 Runtime can be ended
 The current project configuration will be loaded in Runtime.

Proceed in the following way:

 Open the Navigation bar screen.
 Select the Button entry in the Elements tool bar.

 Holding down the left mouse button, drag the dynamic element to the Navigation bar screen (150
pixels wide and 50 pixels high).
Position this button on the right edge of your navigation bar, to the left of your
(already-configured) clock.

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The dialog box for selecting functions opens automatically after you release the mouse button.

 Select the (already-configured). RT-quit function.

Setting the parameters of buttons

Now adjust your buttons once you have created them:

 Select the button.
 Open the section Representation in the properties window.
 For line 1, enter the text End Runtime and the text Alt+Q for line 2.
 Select 6 - Buttontitle-black as the font, as already configured.
 Open the Runtime group in the properties window.
 In the Keyboard operation properties field, click on the ... button .

The dialog for the definition of the key combination opens.

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In the Runtime, you can now execute the function either by clicking the button or by pressing the key
combination.
 Enter Alt+Q by clicking into the input area and pressing that key combination.
 Confirm the settings with OK.

Example

Create, under the first button, another button for reloading the configuration with
the label Reloadand Alt+R, as well as the corresponding keyboard shortcut. Use
RT-reload as the function.

Info
We recommend to define a separate font for the text of the button and to use this font
for all buttons in the project. If the font or the size is changed at a later point in time, all
other buttons are amended automatically.

Applying functions to buttons

After drawing a button, the function selection window is called up automatically. In this window, you can
immediately assign your button a function when drawing it.

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If you have not yet created a corresponding function, you can do this by calling up the context menu
(right mouse button) New function... Subsequent action directly in the function selection window.

Example

The button is not assigned a function (yet) by selecting the Cancel button. You can
assign this function later either by dragging and dropping or by selecting the button
and setting the parameters of the Variable / Function properties group at a
subsequent point in time.

Configuring other functions

Configure the following screen switch functions for this tutorial:

Function name Target screen (already configured)
go_to Storage tank 1 Storage tank 1
go_to Line overview Line overview
go_to Complete overview Complete overview

The planned Storage tank 2 screen has intentionally not yet been given a screen switch function.

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Function via drag + drop

Another possibility to apply functions to buttons is to simply drag an existing function to a button. In the
following steps, do not worry about the layout or exact size of the buttons.

Example:
 Draw a button with the labels "Complete overview" "Alt + 0".
In the function selection dialog that opens, select (the already-configured function)
go_to_complete_overview.
 In the function selection dialog that opens, select Cancel.
 Hold down the mouse button and drag this function to the Detail view of motor button.
 Create a new button
 Label this button with Detail view of storage tank 1 (Alt + 1)
 Drag and drop the (previously-configured) function go_to storage tank 1 to the button that has just
been created.
 Repeat these configuration steps again for your line overview. Labeling: "Line overview", "Alt + 3".
 Create a Storage tank 2 button with Alt+2 as the keyboard shortcut and Text line 2:. This
button is not assigned a function at this time.

The assigned function becomes evident if you move the mouse over the corresponding button.

Further button settings

In addition to the labeling and allocation of a shortcut you can make the following settings for your
buttons:
 Tool tip
Text appearing when the mouse is on the button.
 Text when held:
Text appearing when the button is held.

Configuring the tooltip

Carry out the following steps to configure the tooltip:

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 Select the Complete overview button

 Switch to the Runtime group in the property window
 In the Tooltip: property, enter Complete overview.
 Repeat this setting for all buttons:
Button name Tool tip
Reload Load current configuration in Runtime

Exit Runtime Ends Runtime

Detail view, motor Detail view, motor

Storage tank 1 Detail view Storage tank 1

Storage tank 2 Detail view Storage tank 2

Line overview Detail view inflow pipe

Text when pressed: with two-line button labeling

If the Text line 2: properties field is assigned for a button, Text when pressed: cannot be configured.

In order to combine two-line button labeling with Text when pressed:, carry out the following steps:
 Select the End Runtime button in the current project configuration.
 Switch to the Display group in the properties window.
 Delete the previous entry in Text line 2:.
 Add to the text in Text line 1:. \nAlt + Q
The following is then shown in the properties field: End Runtime\nAlt + Q
 Enter the following under 'Text when pressed': Stop Runtime

A line break can be forced by entering the character string \n.

The prefixed & sign underlines the subsequent letter Q.

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Information
The Text line 2 property must be empty to use \n.

Orientating the buttons

After you have now carried out the previous step with the buttons,, you will no adjust the size and
orientation of the buttons. zenon provides its own tool bar with the corresponding commands for this.

If you cannot see the menu bar orientation, display it the following way:

Select, in the menu bar, Options => Tool bars=> Orientation

The orientation tool bar appears:

ORIENTATION OF THE B UTTONS:

Now switch back to the Navigation bar screen.

 Set the orientation, size and color of any desired button
 Highlight the remaining buttons with shift + mouse click
 Now select, from the orientation tool bar:
 Same size
 Align up

The requirements for size and orientation are always provided by the first-selected and
highlighted button. It is therefore advisable to click the button with the longest text entry in order to set
this as a reference.

11.2.3 Screen Functions

You can link functions to each screen, which will automatically be executed on opening or closing the
screen. You will now use this functionality to open the button-bar with the start screen.
 In the Project Manager, select the Screens node.
 In the detail view of the Project Manager, highlight the Complete overview screen.
 Open the section Execution in the properties window.

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 For start function, select the screen switch function go_to_Navigation from the list.

This means that in Runtime, whenever the Complete overview screen is opened, the Navigation will also
be opened automatically.

Information

Another possibility is the configuration of start scripts.

11.2.4 Other screen elements

You will become familiar with the other screen elements for the creation of your Storage tank1 screen
with examples.
 In the project manager, highlight the nodeScreens.
 Open your Storage tank 1 screen by double clicking it.

Tips for editing screens

In addition to the settings of your Editor, you can also display the main window in full screen mode for
drawing and configuration.

Proceed in the following way:

 Open, in the main window in the context menu (right mouse click) the Full screen mode
entry.
 Your main window is displayed as a full screen.

To return to your editor view, select close full screen from the Full screen dialog window. This is
automatically offered in full screen mode.

Context menu of the main window

When configuring graphics, if there is a screen open in the main window, there is a context menu
(mouse + right click) available with the most important commands.

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The display of the context menu depends on whether an element is selected or not. If no element is
selected, only commands that do not relate to operations with elements are shown.

Context menu for selected format

SHIFT KEY:

If the size of the graphics is changed using the corner points, the proportion of the screen is retained if
the shift key is held down.

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USE GRID

The grid makes it possible to align elements precisely on the screen. You can find the basic settings for
this in the Tools -> Settings menu.
The Display grid context menu entry shows the grid in the main window if it is activated. You thus do
not see a grid if it is not activated.

USE MAGNETIC POINTS

Symbols are automatically laid out on the grid if this is activated. Deactivate this option for precise
positioning.

Export the screen configuration as graphics file

To export a screen as a graphics file:

1. Call up the desired screen.
2. Select, in the main menu, via the context menu, Export screen as a graphic file....
The file browser is opened
3. Select:
 Storage directory
 Screen name
 Format of the graphics file
4. Save the graphics file by clicking on OK.

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11.2.5 Numerical value

Numeric values display numerical values of a variable.

In this tutorial, the numeric value screen element is used to display the following values:
 Temperature in the tank
 Fill level of a tank (variable not yet configured)

Changing an existing structure data type

No variable has been created for the fill level with the previous project configuration (intentionally).

To change a structure type and add the fill level variable, carry out the following steps:
 In the project manager, highlight the Variables node.
 Switch to the Data types.
 Highlight the existing data type, Tank, by clicking on [+].
 Use New structure element... to add a new structure element
You can only use New structure element... if the Tank structure data type has been
selected.
 Give it the name Fill level with the embedded data type UINT.
 Switch back to the view of the variables.
Select the Variables node in the project manager.

ACTIVATION OF SUBSEQUENTLY-ADDED FILL LEVEL VARIABLE

Once a structure element has been added to an existing structure data type, this is still inactive in the
detail list of the variables immediately afterwards and is grayed out.

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Carry out the following steps to activate it:

 Select, in the variable view, the Storage tank[1].Fill level entry.
 Select Activate in the context menu.

 The variable was activated and is no longer displayed in a light gray font
 repeat this activation process for Storage tank[2].Fill level.

Information
Variables, data types and structure types can be expanded afterwards. The
reconfiguration has to be activated.

Other project configurations

Once you have added the missing variable by means of the structure data type, set the parameters for
this.

Carry out the following steps to configure the Fill level variable:
 In the project manager, highlight the Variables node.
 Switch to the Data types.
 Add to the existing data type, Tank, by clicking on [+].
 Highlight the Tank structure element.
 Enter, in the property window in the General group, under Unit of measurement: Liter.

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 You configure the Write set value property group with 0 Min. set value and 20000 Max. set value.
 Create two new limit values in the property window:
 Limit text: Fill level low
Limit value: 1000
Minimum/Maximum: Minimum
In alarm message list: Active
In chronological event list: Active
Limit value color: Fill_level_LOW (already configured)
 Limit text: Fill level high
Limit value: 19000
Minimum/Maximum: Maximum
In alarm message list: Active
In chronological event list: Active
Limit value color: Fill_level_HIGH (already configured)

Configuring the element numerical value

 In order to integrate numerical values into your screen storage tank proceed as follows:
 Open the screen Storage tank.
 In the menu or rather the element symbol bar select the entryNumerical value.

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 Hold the left mouse button down and create a frame for your numerical value in the screen
Storage tank 1 .
 The dialog variable selection opens:

 Select Storage tank[1].Filling level.

 Repeat the configuration of a numerical value with the variable Storage tank[1].Heating
element.Temperature sensor.
If you cannot see the variable[1].Heating element.Temperature sensor extend the node
Storage tank[1].Heating element by once clicking on the -[ symbol in the column Status.
Attention: click once only!
 In addition, select 4 - Standard font4 in the display properties Fontof your numerical values.
To do so, select both of your newly configurated numerical value elements and change into the
properties group Display.

LABELING

 Place both numerical elements with a little distance below the headline.
 Label your numerical elements:
 From the elements symbol bar select Static text.
 Place this element on the left next to the numerical element of your filling level.
 Enter the text Filling level
 Repeat these steps with the text Water temperature.

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VIEW OF THE PRESENT CONFIGURATIONS

Tips for the numeric value element

 To change the size of an element on the screen, click on one of the corner points (the cursor
changes to a double arrow), hold down the left mouse button and move the mouse to the
desired size.
 To move a dynamic element, click on the middle of the element (an arrow cross appears), hold
down the left mouse button and drag the element to its new position.
 Click on the icon Save screen or select the entry Save screen from the context menu of the
screen.

THE EASIEST WAY TO C REATE SEVERAL COUNTE R VALUES ON A SCR EEN:

Highlight the element and copy it to the clipboard with Ctrl+C, then paste it with Ctrl+V. Now you can
drag the desired variables on the elements with the mouse.

ORIENTATION OF YOUR PROJECT CONFIGURATION

The functionality of the 'Orientation' tool bar is naturally also available for the numeric value element to the
full extent. use this to amend the size and orientation of your project configuration.

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LABELING OF THE NUMERIC VALUES

To enable quick orientation, provide your numeric values with a key. To do this, simply use the 'static
text' screen element.

Alternatively, you can also give numeric values a tooltip. The parameters for this are set in the Runtime
property group under Tooltip: .

USE OF FONTS FROM TH E FONT LIST

It is recommended that your own font is configured in the font list for labeling and keys. This tutorial
uses a configured font key with Arial, bold, 12 pt.

Activation of automatic variable selection

If the variable selection does not open automatically, perform the following actions:
 Open the menu Option.
 Select the command Settings.

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The following dialog opens:

 Activate the Input properties after creating objects option in the Element editing group and then
press the OK button.

Information
You can also open a dialog box to select the variable by double clicking on the empty
element frame.

11.2.6 Project configuration with symbols

Make use of the global symbol library in zenon to visualize your storage tank. It contains graphic
symbols classified according to topic.

Proceed as follows to use symbols for visualization:

 In the project manager, open the Global symbol library node.
 Enter tank in the default window in the element name filter.
 Open the folder by clicking on [+].

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 Select a symbol and move this by dragging & dropping in the main window to your open screen,
Storage tank 1.

 Select a template from the global symbol library.

 Enter valve as the filter text and select Throughflow-Meter2

 Place this symbol on the previously-placed tank graphics by dragging & dropping.
 Enlarge both symbols:

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View of the previous configuration of your Storage tank 1 screen in full screen mode:

Information
The symbols in your symbol library depend on your zenon Edition license.

11.2.7 Bar display

You show the numerical size of a signal with the Bar graph dynamic element. The length of the bar
changes with the signal size in runtime.

To create Bar Graph in a screen:

 Open the Storage tank 1 screen.

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 Select the Bar Graph command from the Elements menu.

 With the left mouse button held down, drag the bar graph element to the Storage tank 1
screen to the water tank symbol.

 In the Variable selection dialog, move the bar to the Storage tank[1].Fill level variable and then
press the OK button.
 Make the following settings in the properties window:
Property group Property field Description
Representation Font: 8 - keys
Colors Transparent active
Bar color FillLevel_Normal

Runtime Tooltip: Storage tank fill level

Color-coded display of the limit violation

At limit violations the color from the variable can color the whole area or only the area starting from the
limit violation.

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This functionality is controlled with the 'Explicit' property in the 'Display' group.

EXPLICIT ACTIVE

If a limit value of the linked variable is breached, only the part of the display that goes into the limit
value breach is shown in the color of the respective limit value.
If the variable has several defined limit values, the corresponding areas of the display are each shown in
the color of the limit value.

EXPLICIT INACTIVE

If a limit of the linked variable is violated, the complete display is displayed in the color of the violated
limit.

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11.2.8 Pointer instrument

You display the indicating instrument with the Indicating instrument dynamic element.
 Open the Storage tank 1 screen.
 Select the Indicating instrument entry in the menu or the tool bar.

Hold down the left mouse button and drag the frame for the indicating instrument in the Storage tank 1
screen. Position the indicting element in your text block next to the water temperature.
 Select Storage tank[1].Heating element.Temperature sensor in the dialog that opens.
 Set the parameters of the indicating instrument in the property window:
Property group Property field Description
Representation Font: 8 - keys
Display measuring unit active
Arc of a circle active

Explicit inactive
Main ticks scale 25000

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Subsidiary ticks scale 10

Colors Use limit color active

Runtime Tooltip: Storage tank fill level

DETAILS VIEW:

11.2.9 Universal slider

With the Universal slider dynamic element, you show variables in the form of slider controllers, bar
graphs, LED bar displays or any other sliders you wish.

Proceed as follows to configure a universal slider:

 Open the Storage tank 1 screen.
 Select the Universal slider entry in the menu or the tool bar of the element.

 With the left mouse button held down in the storage tank screen, drag the frame for your
slider.
Position the universal slider in your text block under the already-configured pointer instrument.
 In the dialog that has now opened, select Storage tank[1]/.Temperature sensor
 Set the main ticks to 25 and the subsidiary ticks to 10.

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 Make the following settings in the properties window:

Property group Property field Description
Representation Font: 8 - keys
Main ticks: 10

Subsidiary ticks: 10
Universal slider Style: Moving Scale
Pointer type: Pointer

Bar explicit active

Display title active

Title text: Water temperature
Display drag indicator: active

Runtime Tooltip: Water temperature

EXAMPLE VIEW:

Experiment with the appearance of your universal slider.

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Change the style in the Universal slider property group:

11.2.10 Trend element

With the Trend Element dynamic element, you display all values in Runtime in the form of trend curves,
whereby several process variables can be displayed at the same time.

Proceed as follows to configure a trend element:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 Select the Trend element entry in the menu or tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down in the Storage tank 1 screen, drag the frame for the
trend element.
Position the trend element between the tank graphics and your text block.
 In the variable selection dialog that opens, select Storage tank[1].Temperature sensor and Storage
tank[1].Fill level.
 Set the main ticks to 25 and the subsidiary ticks to 10.
 Make the following settings in the properties window:

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Property group Property field Description

Runtime Tooltip: Graphical overview of fill level and
temperature of the last 10 minutes.
Curves In this property group, you set the parameters for the color and appearance of
your trend curves.
In this example, two curves are offered, because two variables were selected.
Select different colors and line types for each curve.

EXAMPLE VIEW WITH TWO VARIABLES DISPLAYED I N THE TREND ELEMENT:

11.2.11 Dynamic Text

With the Dynamic Text dynamic element, you display the current limit value text in the event of the limit
being breached or display the value of a string variable in alphanumeric form. If there is no limit
violation, the text defined in the Editor is displayed.

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Proceed as follows to configure a dynamic text element:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 Select the Dynamic element entry In the menu or the tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down, drag the template for your dynamic text element to
the Storage tank screen.
Position this element in your text block to the left of the previously-configured numeric value for
the fill level.
 In the dialog that has now opened, select Storage tank [1].Fill level
 Make the following settings in the properties window:
Property group Property field Description
Representation Font: 8-key
Text: No limit value breach

Colors Transparent active

Text/line color Storage tank [1].Fill level

Fill color: Storage tank [1].Fill level

Runtime Tooltip: Fill level status

Dynamic text - other configurations

Now configure a second dynamic text element for the temperature.

 Select the Dynamic text entry In the menu or the tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down, drag the template for your dynamic text element to
the Storage tank screen.
Position this template in your text block to the left of the previously-configured numeric value
for the temperature.
 In the dialog that has now opened, select Storage tank[1]/.Temperature sensor
 Make the following settings in the properties window:
Property group Property field Description
Representation Font: 8-key
Text: No limit value breach
Fill color: Storage tank [1].Temperature sensor

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Colors Transparent active

Runtime Tooltip: Water temperature status

EXAMPLE SHOWN WITH D YNAMIC TEXT ELEMENTS (DETAIL):

Information
Note the different text colors. These are due to the two different parameters set in the
text color properties field.

11.2.12 Combined element

The combined element is a dynamic element that can be used universally and can adopt the most varied
graphic characteristics.

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The form of the display is defined through statuses. Variable values of the main value, values of further
values and status information from all linked variables can all serve as statuses. Any desired links can be
created using formulas.

Configuring a combined element

This tutorial will cover the option to switch some heating on and off. The heating should only be
visualized if it has been activated. If the heating has been deactivated, no visualization should be active.
The combined element is the solution for this.

Carry out the following steps to configure a combined element:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 Select the Combined element entry in the menu or tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down in the storage tank screen, drag the frame for your
combined element.
Position this element precisely underneath the symbol of your tank.
 In the dialog that now opens, select Storage tank[1].Heating element.Switch on/off.
 Make the following settings in the properties window:
Property group Property field Description
Runtime Tooltip: Visualization of heating

The dialog for configuration opens once the element has been positioned.

Setting the parameters for a combined element

The dialog for configuration opens after the combined element is positioned.

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you can also get to this dialog for subsequent changes via the properties window. To do this, press Click
here -> in the Display properties group in the Configuration and test: property field

Carry out the following steps to connect values to graphics:

 Create a new value with the New button.
 Write the value to the value bar.
 Assign a display element to your value by clicking on Empty corner under Symbol from library:
.
A display element from the global symbol library has been selected for this tutorial. You can find
this fire symbol in the International Symbols, fire symbol group.
 Set the Original symbol color to active.

Repeat these steps for each value If you do not want to use graphics for visualization of a value, simply
write the value and do not assign a display element to it.

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If you no longer wish to display a previously-assigned display element, remove this by clicking on X.

11.2.13 Switch

You show the value of a binary variable in graphic form and modify it with the Switch dynamic element.

Proceed as follows to configure a switch:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 In the menu or the element symbol bar, select the Switch entry.

 With the left mouse button held down in the storage tank screen, drag the frame for your
switch element.
Position this element precisely underneath the previously-inserted symbol for the throughflow
meter.
 In the dialog that now opens, select Storage tank[1].Inflow - Switch.
 Make the following settings in the properties window:
Property group Property field Description
Representation Predefined graphics: DIP

Runtime Tooltip: Water inflow on/off

Repeat these steps for the outflow:

 When selecting the variable, use Storage tank[1].Outflow - Switch.
 Enter Water outflow on/off in the properties of the Runtime group as a tooltip.

Switch with buttons

The 'Switch' element can also be used as a switch for one-stage unsecured command processing input.

In this example tutorial, a switch for the heating is to be configured. In addition, an on/off switch is
configured for the heating as a button. The heating is active as long as this switch or button is pressed.
The minimum running time of the heating process should be 5 seconds.

Carry out the following steps to configure the task:

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 Open the screen Storage tank.

 In the menu or the element symbol bar, select the Switch entry.
 With the left mouse button held down in the Storage tank screen, move the frame for your
Switch element. Position this switch under the right-hand corner of your storage tank.
In the dialog that now opens, select Storage tank[1].Heating element.Switch on/off.
 Make the following settings in the properties window:
Property group Property field Description
Display Predefined graphics: ELECTRICITY
Runtime Tool tip: Tank heating on/off

Repeat these steps for the switch:

 In the menu or the element symbol bar, select the Switch entry.
 Position this element below the tank symbol, on the left next to the already-configured
combined element of the heating.
 When selecting the variable, use Storage tank[1].Outflow - Switch again.
 As Pre-defined graphics: Select BUTTON.
 Enter Tank heating pulse switch in the properties of the Runtime group as a tool tip.

In order to create a button from the switch, change to the Write set value group in the properties
window.

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Property field Setting parameters Description

Momentary switch active Defines switch as a Momentary switch.
Momentary switch On active Determines the direction. If this
property is active, the button is set to
off by default. The switch is set to on by
pressing this button.
Holding time [ms]: 5000 This results in the button being active
for at least 5 seconds.

EXAMPLE ILLUSTRATION OF YOUR PREVIOUS CONFIGURATION (DETAIL WITH HEATING

ACTIVATED):

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Information

The properties are only available for the button if the screen element is a switch.

11.2.14 Status Element

You control a screen symbol with a Status Element dynamic element. In doing so, properties of a linked
variable such as colors or flashing for example are transferred to a symbol. You can therefore also show
statistical limit value texts.

Proceed as follows to configure a status element:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 Select the Status element element in the menu or the tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down in the Storage tank screen, drag the frame for the
status element.
Position this element to the right of the (already-configured) universal slider for the water
temperature.
 In the dialog that has now opened, select Storage tank[1]/.Temperature sensor
 Select the shutter_red_2 symbol from the global symbol library and position this close to the
status element.
This symbol is in the interface_buttons_16_9 group.
 Set the parameters of your status element in the property window:

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Property group Property field Description

Representation Font: 8 - keys
Symbol: shutter_red_2
Display limit active
Colors Text/line color: Storage tank [1].Temperature sensor
Visibility Variable: Storage tank [1].Temperature sensor
take from limit Active

Send value to hardware Setting values active Inactive

Variable / function Variable: Storage tank [1].Temperature sensor

There is no need to set the parameters for the symbol in this case, because visibility and coloring of this
symbol can also be controlled by the status element. In addition, this type of configuration also has the
effect of the limit value text being displayed as a text in the corresponding limit value color.

If you only want to display status with graphics, it is sufficient to configure a symbol with the
corresponding visibility settings. In this case, the Display limit value text display setting is
configured as Display Inactive in the properties group.

This project configuration for visibility is carried out in the status element.

11.2.15 Combo-/Listbox

You link values of variables with texts using the combo/list box dynamic element. You use this in two
ways:
 If a text is selected in runtime, the value of the variable changes to the value that is linked to this
text.
 If the value reaches the value of the defined value, the linked text is displayed in the combo/list
box with the current value.

In this tutorial, the functionality of this element is to be set to fill the fill level of the storage tank with
the corresponding values from a combo box. As a second application, a list box is configured that
transfers pre-defined temperatures to the temperature sensor.

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Static combo box

To configure a combo box, proceed as follows:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 Select the Combo-/Listbox entry in the menu or the tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down in the storage tank screen, drag the frame for your
element.
Position this element above the (already-configured) pointer instrument for the water
temperature. Ensure that you configure a height of at least 150 pixels.
 In the dialog that has now opened, select Storage tank [1].Fill level
 The dialog to set the parameters of your combo box opens:

if the 'Entries' dialog is not automatically opened, switch to the Display group of
properties. Click in the 'Entries' properties field: Click here ->
 A new value is configured in the entries list by clicking on 'New'.
 Values can be written to variables can be using 'Send value active'

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 A function call is carried out by selecting ... with a function

Value and function can be configured independently from one another.
 Enter the following values:
Value Text
100 100 liters
5000 5,000 liters
10000 10,000 liters
15,000 15,000 liters
19500 19,500 liters
 Project configuration content remaining the same:
 Enter Storage tank [1].Fill level as a visibility variable for each.
Send value is active

For (subsequent) changes to your configuration:

 Select the (already-configured) combo box / list box element
 The dialog for setting parameters in the Display property group is opened via Click here-> in the
Entries: property field.

Static list box

To configure a list box, proceed as follows:

 Open the screen Storage tank.
 Select the Combo-/Listbox entry in the menu or the tool bar.

 With the left mouse button held down in the storage tank screen, drag the frame for your
element.
Position this element to the left of your symbol for the storage tank. Ensure that you configure a
height of 60 pixels.

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 Select Storage tank[1].Heating elements.Temperature sensor in the dialog that opens.

 The dialog to set the parameters for your lit box now opens:

 Enter the following values:

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Value Text
0.5 Freezing (0, 5°)
2.5 Risk of freezing (2.5°)
16 Normal (16 °)
55 Danger of overheating (55 °)
99 Evaporation (99 °)

Visibility variable and function are not configured in this example. Once you have entered your values,
your configuration should look as follows:

Text color with combo boxes / list boxes

The text color of the combo box /list box entries can be configured depending on limit value colors.

These settings are configured in the properties window:

 Select your list box for the water temperature
 Switch to the Colors group in the properties window

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 Assign, under 'Dynamic colors' in Text/line color: in the properties field, Storage
tank[1].Temperature sensor by selecting the ... button .

PROJECT CONFIGURATION VIEW:

As a result of the low height, not all entries in this list box are visible in Runtime. In this case,
there is the possibility to scroll in Runtime.

11.2.16 Multibin

You can define several states with the multi-binary dynamic element:
 display graphics depending on variable values
 Color symbols
 Issue status text
 link numerical values and binary values
 display a switch or key for the first variable, provided the first variable is a binary variable

CONFIGURATION EXAMPL E:

To illustrate the functionality of the dynamic screen element, the following problem is posed:

For your project configuration, a pipe is to be routed from a stream to the storage tank. This route is
1,000 meters long. A heating station is to be installed at a distance of 200 meters, which activates the
heating in the event of a drop in temperature. This activation is possible by means of a switch An

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overview is to be configured, in which that status of the individual switches is also output as a text. If a
heating station is active, this is to be shown graphically.

Preparatory project configuration

You will get to know other functions of zenon through the task at hand.

The focus is on
 Editing of symbols
 Reusability
 Multiple use of existing project configurations

NECESSARY CONFIGURATION STEPS:

The following steps are necessary before you can configure the multi-binary element dynamic element
in this tutorial:
 Creation of a new screen (already configured).
 Creation of a button in the navigation bar (already configured).
 Creation of a function to control this screen (already configured).
 Configuration of a symbol template and repeated use of a symbol in a screen.
 Configuring the multi-binary element

Symbol editing on the screen

For the planned configuration, only one symbol, which in turn consists of several symbols, is used more
than once. There is the possibility to draw a sample symbol group and then copy and paste it into the
screen.

However, your project configuration is more efficient and most of all less prone to errors if you first
configure a new symbol from different symbols and then use this from the symbol library in the future.
You will also become familiar with the substitution function of zenon.

First create a new symbol from the existing symbols. To do this, carry out the following steps:

Create a new empty screen and give this a name, for example Temporary.
 Configure a switch
 Select Heating Line[1].Heating switch as a variable
 Configure a pointer instrument

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 Select Heating Line[1].Temperature sensor as a variable

 Configure a combined element
 Use the fire symbol for the bit value 1 You can find this fire symbol in the International
Symbols symbol group.
 Default status and bit value 0 do not have a symbol

Arrange your project configuration according to the picture below. The overall size of this symbol group
should be approximately 350 pixels high and 250 pixels wide:

The fire symbol is not visible with the combined element, because the default value is not
assigned a symbol.

ADDING TO AN EXISTIN G SYMBOL LIBRARY

 Highlight all three symbols by dragging a frame around the three elements with the mouse
button held down.

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 Select Symbol -> Create element group from the context menu.
 If you now call up the context menu, you can select the "new" Add to symbol library ...
command.

 Then select the save location of your "new" symbol in the dialog that opens. Select the project
library for this tutorial.
The element group is inserted in the symbol library and converted into a symbol.

Information
Once your symbol has been added to a symbol library, the screen template Temporary
can also be deleted. There is no actual link between screen and symbol in zenon.
However you can use this screen for later symbol configurations.

Multiple use by means of linking rules

You now have a self-created symbol. This symbol contains three different screen elements and two
variables.
 Now open your (previously-configured) line overview screen.
 In the project manager, open the Screens node and the project symbol library there.
You should see the symbol you created beforehand in the project symbol library.

In the next step, you will apply this symbol to a screen a total of nine times.

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The symbol you have configured in the symbol serves as a sample for this. All elements, variables and
functions contained in this symbol are automatically taken on during project configuration.

Continue with the project configuration:

 Drag and drop your symbol to the screen open line overview screen.
 The Edit linking rule dialog opens automatically.

 Confirm this dialog for your first symbol with OK.

Substitution of symbols

This use of an element or symbol from a symbol library leads to each positioning of your symbol being
created with the variables configured in the template. You have configured nine switches and the
temperature sensor for the first heating station.

A short-term solution to configure the symbol from the symbol library without variables and functions
and then assigning these then in the screen. However this workaround very quickly reaches its limits
with more complex configurations. Subsequent changes must also be repeated individually for each
symbol.

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For your first symbol, the variables stored for the symbol are still correct.
However, in order to also be able to subsequently assign the correct variables, carry out the following
steps:
 Drag and drop the sample symbol in your line overview screen again.
 However, for this second symbol, enter Source Heating line[1 on in the input field.
 In the replace by, enter Heating Line [2.
 Repeat this step again twice. As a replacement rule, select:
 Heating Line[3 for the third symbol group
 Heating Line[4 for the fourth symbol group

Use the Direction menu bar to orientate the first line of your project configuration. You should now
have your symbols arranged next to each other four times in the upper half of your screen.

Release properties from links

For optimum use of symbols, it is sometimes necessary to assign individual values to individual
properties from system elements.

You can release the Tooltip property with this function for example. If the symbol is dragged onto the
screen, the 'Tooltip' property can be changed individually for each motor. This function is available for
all properties.

Carry out the following steps to release the 'Tooltip' of your element group:
 In the project manager change to the node Screens.
 Select, from the Project symbol library your elementgroup in the detail view.
 You open the element group with a double click.
With element groups, ensure that you select the main element.
 Select the switch symbol in the main window.
 Select the property group in general and give it the following element name: Heating stations
tooltip.

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 In the properties window, select Tooltip: for Heating switch station.

 Now move the word Tooltip: from the properties window (Runtime properties group) via
Drag&Drop into the bar of the main window under the symbol that has been opened.

 Close and save the symbol.

 Change to the Line overview screen
 Select a (compiled) symbol and change to the Runtime properties group in the properties
window.
At the place where the tooltip is normally entered, the corresponding properties field is
missing. Your released element is at the end of the properties help for this.

Information
If you configure a neutral text for the tooltip before release, this is automatically applied
to the previous configuration.

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TO BLOCK A RELEASED ELEMENT AGAIN:

 Select, in the main window, the property name or the released property.
 In the context menu, select Remove selected property.

Linked Symbol Wizard

The Linked Symbol Wizard is available in order for you to be able to edit approved properties easily and
with a clear overview: double click on a symbol that:
 Is linked in the screen and
 has released properties

The Linked Symbol Wizard opens

 Select the property to be changed

 Enter the new value Each change is accepted immediately!
 Close the wizard by clicking on Exit

Visibility levels

Similar to CAD programs, you can define visibility levels in the Editor and allocate them with unique
elements. That way you can easily hide unused elements in complex images and show them again
anytime. 15 visibility levels are available. Levels are allocated using the 'Visibility' property in the
'General' node. Individual levels can be activated or deactivated using the buttons of the Visibility levels
toolbar:

First show the Visibilty levels tool bar.

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To do this, go to the Options => Toolbars=> Visibility levels menu bar.

Information
Visibility levels apply graphics configuration to the selected level.

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Working with visibility levels

Lastly, you configure the pipeline in your line overview. Your pipe should look something like this when
finished:

carry out the following steps to draw a pipeline with the help of visibility levels:
 Open your Line overview screen in the main window.
 Switch this screen to full screen mode.
 select the Tube symbol in the Elements tool bar or in the Elements drop-down list

 In the main window, select the start point by clicking the left mouse button
 pull the first section
 place an initial corner point with a simple mouse click (left)
 draw another line and place the corner points
 set the end point by double clicking or pressing the esc key
 Highlight your pipe and select Background from the Element Position context menu.

The shape, size and position can be changed at any time by pulling the vertexes or moving
the element Hold down the shift key when pulling; this way, only horizontal or vertical
movements away from the original position are possible
 In the properties window, in the General property group, select Visibility level: 1.

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DISPLAY OF VISIBILIT Y LEVELS

Now look at your screen configuration again.

If you, in the tool bar for the visibility levels, first click on the button for Make all visibility levels
invisible and then activate level 1 by clicking the mouse on the 1 button of the tool bar, you see your
pipeline only.

However, if you select level 0 active and level 1 not active, you see your heating station without a
pipeline.

Information
Visibility levels have no effect on the view in Runtime.

Practical tips for visibility levels

ATTENTION:

If you hide visibility levels, do not forget to show these again. If you, for example, hide all visibility levels
in the Line overview screen up to level 2, level 2 is only now visible in the storage tank screen. In
this example tutorial, this would lead to you not seeing any more content in the storage tank screen.
Only once you show all levels again in the Visibility levels toolbar via Make all visibility levels visible, is
all previous configuration content visible.

Configuring the multi-binary element

Carry out the following steps to configure a multi-binary element:

 Open the Line overview screen.
 Select Multi-binary element in the menu or the tool bar of the element.

 With the left mouse button held down, in the Line overview screen, drag the frame for
your multi-binary element.
Position this element above the first row with the four symbols.

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 In the dialog that has now opened, select Heating line[1]/.Heating switch
 The dialog to set the parameters of the multi-binary element opens

Setting parameters for the multi-binary element

When setting parameters for the multi-binary element, first define a default status and then
step-by-step states.

Proceed in the following way:

 Highlight your (already) configured multi-binary element
 Switch to the Display properties group in the properties window.
 Select 8 - key as the font
 Open the configuration dialog by clicking on ... in the Configuration property

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 Set the parameters for your multi-binary element in accordance with the following
requirements:
 Status text and screen symbol as display type
 Display status text active
 Display status active
 No heating active! As status text in the Status 0 (LOW) input field
 For setting the parameters of other states:
 Clicking on the ... button opens the variable selection.
You can select several variables when pressing the Ctrl key. Click on the ... button
again to add further variables.
 Set the parameters for your individual variables by highlighting these, entering Heizung n
each time as the respective status text and selecting a vibrant red as the text color for each.

Highlight the first variable

Add Heating 1 active in the Status text input field
Select a vibrant red as the text color and symbol fill color

Highlight the second variable

Highlight the first variable
Add Heating 2 active into the Status text input field
Select a vibrant red as the text color and symbol fill color

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...

 Then configure a tooltip in the Runtime properties group with the Visualization of status
of pipe heating entry.

12. Multiple use by means of substitution

You have often read about a second storage tank in this tutorial. However this has not been created as a
screen previously nor have the configuration steps been carried out for this second tank.

The same structures do not need to be configured multiple times thanks to substitution. You configure
just one function and apply this to an existing screen. zenon detects this "multiple use" and
automatically offers a filter dialog when the function is being created. The parameters for changes or
substitutions can then be set in this dialog.

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SUBSTITUTION:

 Configure a new screen switching function.

 Select, in the screen selection dialog, the (already-configured) Storage tank 1 screen.
 The Filter dialog is opened
 Now set the parameters for the substitution rules.
In this example, the complete contents of storage tank 1 are to be substituted for storage tank 2:
 Enter Storage tank[1] in the source field (=Tank1*)
 Enter Storage tank[2] in the target field (= Tank2)
 Confirm your project configuration by clicking on the OK button
 Confirm the subsequent dialog
"Source variables have not yet been replaced by the target variables! Substitute now?"
with the Yes button.

Lastly, apply the function that has just been created to the (already-configured) 'Storage tank 2' button.
 To do this, switch to the screens.
 Select the Navigation bar screen and
 Apply the go_to_storage_tank_2 function to the button
(by dragging & dropping or using the properties of the button)

12.1 Hints for Substitution

To be able to apply the possibility to apply the substitution optimally, note the following:
 Use structure data types.
 Ensure that your variables are given a short and concise name.
 Take the possibility of substitution into account at the naming stage. This naming should be
unique and easily-substitutable.
 Configure a screen as a template first, which can be reused as often as you like once it has been
completed by means of a function.

13. Screen types

zenon offers a range of special screen types for special tasks. After selecting a special screen type, all
user elements for the respective screen type are available in the Control elements menu. Menu item

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add template opens a selection dialog for adding pre-defined layouts with certain control elements at
pre-defined locations.

Attention
If a type is changed from a standard type to a special type, the new screen type is fixed
with the screen and can no longer be changed.

13.1 Configuration of special screen types

Carry out the following steps to create a new screen type:

 Create a new screen
 Select the corresponding screen type in the General properties group, in the Screen type:
properties field

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Alternatively you can use the drop-down list, in the detail list, in the Screen type column.

 Configure new screens in accordance with the following requirements:

All screens to be configured use the Main frame.
The Tooltip column is for subsequent configuration of the buttons in the navigation bar.

Name Screen type Tooltip:

Alarm Message List Alarm Message List Alarm Message List
CEL Chronological Event List Chronological Event List

Diagnosis of variables Variable diagnosis Variable diagnosis

OTHER CONFIGURATION STEPS

Switch back to the (already-configured) Navigation screen and create the corresponding buttons for the
newly-created screens.

13.2 Content of special screen types

Once special screen types have been created, you will now find out how to fill these with content in the
next step. Now fill your variable diagnosis, CEL and alarm message list screens by selecting, in the Menu
bar=> Control elements=> Add template... .

To do this, carry out the following steps:

 In the project manager, highlight the Screens node.

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 Open the corresponding screen in the detail list with a double click.
 In the menu bar, select Control elements -> Add template

 Select the corresponding template in the Select template dialog.

Alternatively, you can also add individual modules from this pre-made template. These are listed
in the selection list under Insert template....

THE CORRECT TIME

Insertion of templates always relates to the content that is configured at the time of insertion. Configuration
that is added later such as variables is not automatically added later. It is therefore recommended that the
content of special screen types is created as late as possible during configuration.

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13.3 Screen switch to screen types function

The screen filter dialog is displayed using the screen switch function on an Alarm Message List,
Chronological Event List or Time Filter screen, .

With the screen filters, you have the possibility to comfortably create individual filter pages. You do not
have to use the pre-defined zenon dialogs for this; you can compose your own filter dialogs instead. You
can do this according to aspects such as touch operation, filtering of special areas only, ability to switch
languages, etc.

Information
Special screen types need only be created once, even when used multiple times. They can
be opened with different data by means of the screen switching function.

13.3.1 Switch screen to special screen types function

The screen switching function is configured in the same way as standard screen types. zenon
automatically recognizes that a special screen type is given as an objective. A filter dialog is
automatically called up in the Editor when the function is configured.

Carry out the following steps:

 Create a screen switch function for your (previously configured) screen types
 Alarm message list
Function name: switch-screen_Alarm-Message-List
 CEL
Function name: switch-screen_CEL

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 Variable diagnosis
Function name: switch-screen_Variable-Diagnosis
 In the dialog that opens automatically, activate the respective Show this dialog in Runtime. This
allows the possibility to amend the filter settings in Runtime.

 If this dialog deactivated in Runtime, screen switching is carried out immediately in Runtime with
the filter settings set (in the Editor) for the respective screen.

If the filter dialog is not opened automatically, you can call this up again in the properties window
in the General properties group by pressing the ... button of the Parameter: property field again. The
filter dialog appears again after the variable selection dialog.

13.3.2 Applying the function

Apply the functions that have just been created to the buttons in your navigation bar:
 Open the Screens node in the project manager.
 A double click opens the navigation bar screen in the main window.
 Move the corresponding function to the respective button by dragging + dropping.

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13.4 Your own screen types

Creation of your own screen types is simple. Proceed in the following way:
 Configure and set the parameters for a screen according to your requirements.
 Once your screen has been finalized, select Create template for screen type... in the context
menu
 You can now save your screen as a screen type in the dialog that now opens.

CONFIGURATION OF YOUR O WN SCREEN TYPE

If you construct a screen based on your own screen type, proceed as follows:
 Create a new screen.
 Retain the proposed standard screen type.
 Open your screen in the main window by double clicking the screen name in the detail view.
 Insert your own content using the Control elements and Insert template... menu items.
 Select the corresponding template in the dialog that now opens.

 The template is applied to your new screen.

Information
You can save several visualizations for each screen type. Use this possibility to optimize it
for various systems and screen resolutions by offering several solutions.

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14. Runtime (Online operation)

zenon consists of
 The configuration environment, the Editor,
 and Runtime

Projects are created in the Editor and operated and monitored in Runtime.

Runtime / runtime environment allows projects to run regardless of platforms, i.e. regardless of the
hardware and operating system used. A Runtime environment is the 'platform' in which the projects
run. Runtime does not need a development environment in order to run.

14.1 Start Runtime

Runtime can be started in several ways:

1. By clicking on the Start Runtime button in your Editor
2. In the Start menu in the program group Programs/COPA-DATA/zenon760 with the entry zenon
Logic Runtime

3. By pressing the Runtime button in the zenon Startup Tool

4. With the F5 key in the Editor

Attention
If you start Runtime from the Editor, do not forget to save your Runtime data [F7].

If you carry out configuration in the Editor whilst you have opened Runtime, update your project
configuration by pressing the (already-configured) reload button.

14.2 Working in the Runtime

After starting the Runtime two images are loaded.

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First, the overal summary (since this was automatically entered as Start screen during the project
configuration) and then the image Navigation bar (since it was executed with the Start function of the
start screen).

First, you will be shown how to orient yourself in an existing Runtime project:
 Right-click anywhere in an empty area of the screen.
If you hold the right mouse button the name of the screen will appear at the mouse pointer.
 Move the mouse over a button or a screen element.
The tool tip is displayed behind the mouse pointer.
 Now click with the right mouse button on the numerical value element for the operating
mode.
In the left corner above the element the name of the linked variable will be displayed.
 In the navigation bar, click the button end Runtime and hold it: the button labeling will change.

14.3 Stopping the Runtime

To end Runtime:
 Press the End Runtime button to close Runtime.
 Pres Alt + Q

Information
If you have not defined a button for stopping the Runtime and if the Windows title bar is
not available, the Runtime can also be closed with the key combination Alt+F4.

14.4 Configuring Runtime

The settings for Runtime are made during configuration in the Editor. To do this, carry out the following
steps:
 Highlight the project name in the the project manager.

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 The following properties field is shown once the Runtime Settings properties group is called up:

Information

If the Runtime setting Block system keys is active, the system keys are also no longer
available in the other applications on the computer in question.

14.4.1 Use screen Keyboard

When configuring a project, always bear in mind that the operator on site often does not have hardware
equipment like your project configuration computer.

The hardware on which Runtime runs is not always a desktop computer in the conventional sense. If
Windows CE or Windows Embedded is used on the Runtime system, there is often no keyboard available
for operation. Allow for this situation by offering a virtual keyboard.

To automatically switch on a virtual keyboard in Runtime:

 Select the corresponding element in your project configuration.
 Switch to the Write set value group in the properties window.
 Activate Use keyboard screen.

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If you now change a field value in Runtime the keyboard is called up automatically.

HARDWARE KEYBOARDS A ND VIRTUAL KEYBOARDS USED TOGETHER

Virtual keyboards act like hardware keyboards in the operating system. If virtual keyboards are used
together with hardware keyboards, they affect each other. Settings on the hardware keyboards - e.g.
determine whether Shift is used - affect the virtual keyboard and vice versa.

If Capps lock is pressed on the hardware keyboard, it is also true for the virtual keyboard. In this case
you cannot enter numbers via the automatic keyboard.

If the Num key on the hardware keyboard is pressed in order to switch of the number pad, the number
pad on the virtual keyboard also does not work.

14.4.2 Keyblock Runtime

Keyblock Runtime Start is a program with which both zenon Runtime is started and all Windows system
keys can be blocked. Keyboard shortcuts such as the Windows key or Ctrl+Alt+Del no longer have an

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effect.

To use Keyblock Runtime Start:

 In the Windows start folder, open zenon Tools in the COPA-DATA folder
 Select Keyblock Runtime Start
 the program starts and automatically starts the Runtime
 The program blocks all access to the operating system.

WINDOWS KEY

When locking the system keys, the normal operation of the scroll bars with the mouse in the Runtime is
also blocked. You can work around the blocking with the help of the context menu.

HIDING THE CONTROL P ANEL IN THE START MENU

 Locking the tool bar for operation

 Prevents
 Changing passwords
 Closing Windows
 Logout

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 Locking the computer

 User change
 Hiding all element in the task manager

Information
If Keyblock Runtime Start is started using the startup process of the operating system:
 take care that the auto start folder is user-specific: If an other user is logged in, the
program is not executed.
 Processing the startup process programs can be prevented by pressing the Shift key
when the operating system is booting.

This locking cannot be bypassed during Runtime. When the Runtime is closed normally, the system
restrictions are canceled. If the Runtime should be operable without these limitations, the Runtime
must be started instead of Keyblock Runtime Start.

Attention
Ensure that you configure a possibility to close Runtime in your project, such s a button,
for example.

14.5 Practical tips for Runtime

Also bear in mind that Runtime is the user interface of your project configuration.
 When configuring, ensure that there is a clear overview and that it is easy to use
 Create different authorization levels
 Write set values for all inputs in Runtime when configuring in order to avoid incorrect entries.
 Use the functions and scripts in order to make use of as much automation as possible.
each entry entered by a human entails a certain amount of risk.
 If you use Runtime on an ongoing basis to check individual project configuration steps, do not
forget
 to save the Runtime data and
 to load the current project configuration data in Runtime.
 Configure meaningful tooltips. They offer a good first opportunity for orientation in Runtime.

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14.6 Changing the simulation mode

Your configured driver has up to now been configured with the status simulation - counting. This means
that your project continuously counts up. However, with Boolean variables in particular, this can mean
that they often switch on and off.

In order to observe the behavior of Boolean variables correctly, it makes sense in this tutorial to change
the driver mode from counting to static.

Proceed in the following way:

 In the project manager, switch to the Variables node.
 Select Driver -> S7 TCP-IP driver
 Open the driver configuration dialog in the General properties group by clicking on ... the
Configuration property.
 Change the Mode to Simulation - static

If you make this change when Runtime is running, do not forget to back up your Runtime data in
the Editor and to reload it into Runtime.

Information
You can reuse all configuration steps that have already been carried out when changing
your driver configuration. Reconfiguration is not necessary.

14.7 Changing values in Runtime

Because the other variables (such as fill level, temperature) can now keep a constant value, you will use
setpoint input. To do this, click on the corresponding configuration in Runtime and xx modified
spontaneous value.

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 Click on the numerical value element for the variable with the left mouse button. Storage
tank[1].Fill level.
 The standard dialog box for setting values opens and allows you to change the value of this
variable.

 Set the value of the variable Storage tank[1].Fill level to 990 and close the dialog box with OK.
 Set the value of the variable Storage tank[1].Heating elements.Temperature sensor to 0 and close the
dialog box with OK.

Information
The driver is set to the counting simulation mode and the bar of the bar graph is moving.
 You can switch between the screen with the configured buttons in the button bar.

15. Automated function call

Until now, you have always triggered functions by means of actively instigating it. You have learned,
how to ...
 Change values with the input of set values,
 Call up functions with buttons.

You will later configure how certain states (such as fill level or temperature) execute functions
automatically.

In this part of the tutorial, you will learn:

 Calling up a function by means of a reaction matrix
If a value of a given fill state is gone below or exceeded, the corresponding valve is
opened or closed.
 Calling up a function by mens of a limit value breach
If a given temperature is gone below, the heating of the water pipe is automatically

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activated. The heating is automatically deactivated again once a certain temperature has been
reached.

15.1 Calling up a function by means of a reaction matrix

The reaction matrix allows function calls, regardless of variables. In doing so, logical states in the
reaction matrix are configured and the limit value of a variable is set as related to the parameter.

In this tutorial, the inflow valve of the water tank is opened if the limit value of 1,000 liters is gone below
and closed if the limit value of 19,000 liters is exceeded.

Proceed in the following way:

 Configure the corresponding functions
 Configure a reaction matrix
 Assign your variable a function related to the limit value

15.1.1 Reaction matrix - preparing functions

The inflow valve is to be controlled in the event of a value being exceeded or gone below. First configure
your functions for this:
 Create a Write set value function.
 Select the variable Storage tank[1].Inflow - Switch
 Set value = On (1)
 Select Direct to hardware active in the options
 Name this function set_tankinflow_ON
 Configure a second function with the set value as Off (0) and the name set_tankinflow_OFF.

15.1.2 Reaction matrix - configuring the reaction matrix

To engineer a reaction matrix, proceed as follows:

 In the project manager, change to the Variables node.

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 Open this node with [+].

 Activate the 'Reaction matrix' node and select, via the context menu, (mouse + right click)
New reaction matrix... .

 In the reaction matrix dialog that opens, enter Fill level as the name and Numerical as the
type.

The States and reactions dialog opens. You set the parameters for states, limit value texts and functions
here.
 Use the New status button to create a new value.
 Create a value entry for <1000
 Assign this status the (already-configured) set_tankinflow_ON function
 In the additional attributes, set the (already-configured) color fill level low from the color
palette
 Enter Low water supply in the Limit value text field
 Treat each change of value as new limit violation: must be set as active
 Configure another status with the following requirements:

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Parameters Description
Value > 19000
Function set_tankinflow_OFF
Limit color Fill level high (dark red from color palette)
Limit text Water supply full
Treat each change of value as new limit violation active

15.1.3 Reaction matrix - assigning limit values

In order for your reaction matrix to be triggered with the states and functions contained therein, assign
your matrix limit values from variables.

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To do this, carry out the following steps:

 In the project manager, change to the Variables node.
 Open this node with [+].
 Switch to the Data types view
 Select, in the detail view, the Storage tank structure data type and open this with [+].
 Select the Fill level structure element there.
 Select the Limit values properties group in the properties window.
 In the Reaction matrix property field, select the (previously-configured) Fill level reaction matrix
from the drop-down list.

No other parameters need to be set for the other limit value entries.

EFFECTS IN RUNTIME

If you test this configuration in Runtime, note the switch for the tank inflow:
 If the fill level < 1,000 liters, the switch is automatically 'On'.
 If the fill level > 19,000 liters, the switch is automatically 'Off'.

Use either the set value input or the (already configured) static drop-down list to change the fill level.

15.2 Function call when limit value breached

You will become familiar with the function call in the event of a limit using the (already-configured) Line
overview screen.

In doing so, the heating should be activated if the lower water temperature limit is breached. As soon as
the water temperature gets back to a normal value, the pipe heating is to be switched off accordingly.

Start this configuration by creating the attendant functions:

This function is unfortunately not replaceable.

To do this, carry out the following steps:

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 In the project manager, change to the Variables node.

 Open this node with [+].
 Switch to the Data types view
 Select, in the detail view, the tank structure data type and open this with [+].
 Select the Fill level structure element there.
 Select the Limit values properties group in the properties window.
 In the Reaction matrix property field, select the (previously-configured) Fill level reaction matrix
from the drop-down list.

No other parameters need to be set for the other limit value entries.

16. Menus
In the previous project configuration of this tutorial, you have only implemented navigation using
screens and buttons. In this section of the tutorial, you will learn another possibility, by configuring
menus and context menus.

The following steps are necessary to implement menus:

 Configuring the functions
 Configuration of the menus
 Setting the parameters for the menus
 Setting the parameters for the project settings

Information
The functions do not need to be reconfigured. You use the already-used and thus
already-configured functions.

16.1 Creating menus

In this example, you will configure menus for navigation between your (already-configured) screens.

To do this, carry out the following steps:

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 In the project manager, switch to the Screens node.

 In the detail view, expand the Main menu view by clicking on [+].
 Select New main menu via the tool bar or the context menu.
 Give this menu a name by entering, in the Name: properties field, the name Navigation.
 You can now see a cell at the top left of the cross-reference list.
 Double click in this cell and write Home in this cell.
Alternatively, enter the text in the properties window, in the Display / type group in the Text:
properties field .

 If you now click on the Home entry, an empty cell is offered under the menu text.
You can configure the contents of the menu by clicking in this cell.
Each entry made then results in an empty cell underneath. The same applies for vertical
menu items. It is possible to move them by dragging and dropping.

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16.1.1 Properties of the menu configuration

You can set the parameters for special menu-related content in the properties menu of your respective
menu entry.
 Separator active
In the Display / type properties group, you can activate the Separator active properties field
instead of a menu entry. This results in you placing a separator between your menu entries.

 Submenu
In the properties group Display / type, a subordinate branch opens if Submenu is activated.
This property is activated for the superordinate menu entry. The respective submenu
entries are configured normally again.

 Action type:
You can also find the Action type: property field in the Display / type submenu. You can assign
you menu entry with an action in this list.
If you want to, for example, call up a function with your menu entry, this action type is to be
set to function.

16.1.2 Configuration of menus

Complete the configuration of your menu in accordance with the following requirements. The naming of
the assigned functions follows the configuration progress of this tutorial:

HOME MENU ENTRIES:

 Reloading Runtime
 Stopping the Runtime
 Separator
 COLOR view
 B/W view

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NAVIGATION MENU ENTR IES

 Complete overview
 Separator
 Storage tank
 Tank 1
 Tank 2
Tank 1 and Tank 2 are submenus. To be able to configure submenus, activate, in the
Display group / type in the property window the check box for the property Submenu. In
this example, the Checkbox submenu for the Storage tank menu item is active. This is visible
in the Editor by means of a triangle next to the Storage tank entry.
 Line overview
 Separator
 CEL
 Alarm Message List
 Variable overview

16.1.3 Assigning a function

To assign individual menu functions, proceed as follows:

 Select the respective menu item.
 Select, in the Display / type group in the property window, the Action type: property field and
select Function from the drop-down list.
 Switch to the Function/Macro properties group.
 Clicking on ... in the Function property window opens the dialog for selecting a function.

16.1.4 Application of menus

Your menus are configured in the cross-reference list and the parameters are set in the properties
window. The application is called up with a function.

First create a function to do this:

 Switch to the 'Functions' node in the project manager.
 Create a Display menu function.
You can find this function in the Screens function group.

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 In the dialog that opens, select the Display menu action from the drop-down list.
As a Menu, select the (previously-configured) Navigation entry.

If Show this dialog in Runtime is active, this dialog is not executed automatically but is
offered to the user for manual selection in Runtime. Your configured settings are given as a
proposal in the process. If you want to offer a neutral menu selection to the Runtime user,
Action: and Menu: can also be configured without selection.
 Name this function load_menu.

APPLYING THE MENU FUNCTION

The following step is necessary in order for menus to be displayed in Runtime:

 Select, in the project view, the workspace; it is Tutorial in this example.
 Select the Graphic design group in the properties.
 Set the main menus active property to active (active checkbox).

One possibility is applying the function on a button (such as Show menus).

However in this tutorial, the menu is to be displayed automatically when Runtime is started. Activating
menus by means of start scripts is described precisely in the scripts chapter.

16.1.5 Practical tips for menus

 When configuring, use the multiple selection option with shift + mouse click. First create
your menu entries, then highlight these by clicking the mouse and pressing the shift key. Then
switch to the Display / type properties menu and select the corresponding action type:. Your
configuration is applied to all selected menu entries as a result of this procedure.
 Use the option of submenus and separators to keep your menus simple and with a clear
overview.
 Use already-configured functions, such as the screen switching functions already applied to
buttons in this tutorial.
 If you notice that a function is missing when you are configuring menus, you do need need to
switch to the Functions node.
When selecting functions whilst setting parameters, use the New function button in the

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function selection dialog.

16.2 Creating context menus

As an example of the configuration of a context menu, prescribed temperatures are to be set in the
overview of the storage tank using the context menu. In addition, the temperature is to be increased or
reduced within the limits by 10 degrees. The temperature is to be reduced by 10 degrees with the click
of a mouse.

To do this, proceed as follows:

 Configuring a context menu
 Configuring attendant functions
 Applying functions to a context menu
 Applying a context menu

16.2.1 Setting the parameters of a context menu

To configure context menus, proceed as follows:

 In the project manager, switch to the Screens node.
 In the detail view, expand the Runtime menu by clicking on [+].
 Click on context menu.
 Select New context menu via the tool bar or the context menu.
 Give this menu a name by entering, in the Name: properties field, the name
Context_menu_storage_tank.
 The procedure for entering the context menu entries is the same as with the menus:

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 + 10 degrees
 - 10 degrees
 Enter temperature

16.2.2 Functions for context menus

Create the attendant functions for the context menu:

 Create a new Write set value function.
You can find this in the Function favorites or in the Variable favorites group.
 Link this function to the Storage tank[1].Heating element.Temperature sensor
variable.
 Set the parameters for the 'Write set value' dialog according to the image below:
It is important that the checkbox for Propose current value is activated!
 Name this function +10.
 Create a second function with the name -10 and a change of -10.

ASSIGNING FUNCTIONS FOR CONTEXT MENUS

Proceed as follows to assign the functions that have just been created:
 Call up your (already-configured) Context_menu_Storage_tank context menu.
 Select the (already-configured) context menu entry +10 degrees.
 In the properties, select in the Display / type group, the Action type: property Function.
 Now switch to the Function/Macro properties group.
 Select, by clicking on the ... button in the Function property, the above-configured function
+10.
 Repeat this step for the -10 degrees context menu and use the -10 function in the process.
 For the 'Enter temperature' context menu entry select, in the Action type: property, Function.

16.2.3 Applying a context menu

Applying the context menu to an element

 In the project manager change to the node Screens.
 Open the (already-configured) Storage tank 1 screen.

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 Place a bar graph element under the list box, on the left next to the tank symbol.
 Select Storage tank[1].Heating elements.Temperature sensor in the dialog that
opens to select variables.
 In the Display properties group, select Direction: in the properties field Right from the from
the drop-down list.
 Assign the Context_menu_Storage_tank that has been created to the bar graph element.
 To do this, select the bar graph element
 Select, in the properties, the Runtime group and the corresponding context menu from the
Context menu drop-down list (in this example: Context_menu_Storage_tank)

17. Scripts
Sometimes it is necessary to combine several functions into one work step.

Scripts combine several functions for this purpose. The place of execution depends on the settings of
the Execute script function.

Simply put, the following steps are necessary for the use of scripts:
 Create a script
 Fill the script with functions
 Configure function when the script is called up

Information
The parameter settings of the script function overwrite the settings of the individual
functions. When the functions are used individually, the parameter settings of the
function remain.

17.1 Creating scripts

Carry out the following steps to create a script:

 Switch to the 'Functions' node in the project manager.
 Open this with [+].

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 Select New script in the detail list or the context menu.

 Name this script in the property window by selecting AUTOSTART from the drop-down list.
This drop-down list is called up by clicking on the arrow on the right on th 'Name:'
property field.

 Create two further scripts, not using the drop-down list when setting the parameters for the
Name property field. Instead, give it two independent names; in this example: Tank and Line.

Information
If a script is executed at a certain time, such as when Runtime is started, Runtime logs on
to the server etc., the name is to be selected from the drop-down list. The name is then
shown to represent the time of execution.

17.2 Adding functions to scripts

A script serves functions as a container.

 Fill the (already-configured) AUTOSTART script with functions. To do this, with the script
selected, select Add functions... in the tool bar of the detail view or via the context menu.
In the function selection dialog that opens, add the existing function or remove this by selecting
the corresponding Add or Remove button.
 For this tutorial, add the following functions:
 set_value_50
Create a new function Write set value with the name set_value_50.
To set the parameters of this function, use the variable Storage tank[1].Heating
elements.Temperature sensor, and the set value 50.
Ensure that, in the Write set value dialog, Direct to hardware is activated.
 load_menu
This function displays (already-configured) menus when Runtime is called up.

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17.3 Practical tips scripts

Scripts are an important instrument in order to be able to combine several functions. They can be a very
powerful tool when used correctly.
 Sometimes it makes sense to create scripts even if no script content has been configured. The
script execution function can already be configured in the ongoing project configuration process.
 Open project configuration steps can also be expedited with open questions with the help of
scripts.
 Empty functions can also be added to scripts and the parameters for these can be set later.
 Scripts can contain scripts. Scripts cannot be integrated into scripts. However if you combine
script functions into a combined script, the same functionality can be achieved.

18. Project documentation

Document your project configuration carefully! This documentation makes it easier for you to
troubleshoot or cooperate with project partners in the event of subsequent expansions. Thanks to
zenon, this usually very laborious process can be efficiently implemented in a few steps.

Use the integrated wizard for your project documentation:

 To call up the wizard, select, in the File menu bar, the Wizards ... entry

Information
The wizard is only available in English.

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18.1 Selecting the documentation contents

This wizard leads you through the steps needed to create a HTML document of the active project. It is
possible to define the modules that should be included in the documentation and those that should not.

The wizard can be changed:

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 By deactivating the checkbox, it is possible to leave the complete contents of the project out of
the documentation.
 Clicking the ... button next to the contents of a project provides you with the respective detail
view. Select further documentation contents here

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