I have verified the installation of all the versions. The next step is to test whether we can successfully add and install other versions into the correct directory. I will be experimenting with this tomorrow, as some of the versions included in the package may have updated revisions. This is important to consider for optimal performance and compatibility.
I am amazed by the possibilities of this situation! I never imagined that such things could be achievable. I was on the verge of finding a solution to repair that issue by getting the factorytalk Updater to work. Thank you so much for your assistance, OG!
I have included the v21 and v19 installation files, but unfortunately, they are not being provided as installation options. Despite this setback, it is still convenient to have all these files installed simultaneously. OG
Imagine a new Ver33.00 release that is compatible with nearly every CLX firmware revision and all RSLogix/Studio5000 versions. This would be similar to Siemens, the SLC family, PLC-5, Idec, AutomationDirect, Saia, Vipa, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, and Omron products. This update would make it easier for users to seamlessly integrate multiple systems.
That is absolutely insane dialogue!
I have heard that Rockwell may prefer "sealed installations" towards the end of a product's lifecycle, such as in the case of RSLogix 5 and 500. These sealed installations are compatible with all firmware levels. This choice may be more of an operational preference for Rockwell in their CI Process, rather than a technical restriction.
For those seeking information on RSLLogix5000 backwards compatibility, this forum post provides a detailed explanation.
In response to Operaghost's comment, I have included v21 and v19 installation files in the options for install, but unfortunately they are not showing up as available choices. However, it is still convenient to have all versions installed simultaneously. Operaghost, have you attempted swapping out the install files for a more recent minor version as well? Just wondering.
I attempted to install a newer version of v32 but was unable to locate it. Currently downloading the latest version, v31, but I have doubts about its compatibility. It seems there is an .XML file serving as an install answer file for all the components included in this installation process. If this file is not included in the "script," the installer may not recognize it. The file in question is located at \32.01.01-Multiversion-Image\Config\Logix_V32_mega.xml. Perhaps making modifications to this answer file could enable the installation of additional packages. OG
Thank you, @PreLC, for the timely notification. Unfortunately, I may not have the opportunity to incorporate additional versions. Nonetheless, this input will greatly aid in streamlining server organization.
I began by setting up a server for assetcentre disaster recovery, which was my first step in the process. Are you also utilizing server installs for new floor PCs at your plant? Looking forward to hearing about your experience! -PreLC
I view it as a practical location to store software for new PC setups, but I have not convinced management to invest in AssetCentre. With the recent closures for the past two months, it seems unlikely that this will be the year for implementing it.
The user Operaghost expressed their experience with trying out a newer version of software v32 with no success. They are now attempting to download an updated version, v31, but have doubts about its effectiveness. It seems that there is a crucial .XML file that serves as an installation answer file for all the components included in the software package. It is believed that if this file is not included in the installation script, the installer may not recognize it. Perhaps making adjustments to this answer file could enable the installation of additional packages. Recently, a complete installer was released on the 23rd of this month, containing versions V20, V21, V24, V28, V30, V31, V32, and V33 all in one package. Additionally, a virtual machine (VM) with these software preinstalled was also made available, marking a significant advancement towards future capabilities.
PreLC recently announced the release of a comprehensive installer featuring V20, V21, V24, V28, V30, V31, V32, and V33 all in one package. Additionally, they introduced a preinstalled VM containing these software products, a significant advancement towards future accessibility. It raises questions about how this aligns with Windows licensing - does PreLC have a special agreement with Microsoft, or is access to the image contingent on a unique purchase?
I was under the impression that moving or copying a virtual machine, downloading it, or any similar action would automatically invalidate the onboard license. This can be compared to transferring a hard drive from one machine to another with similar hardware. Therefore, it is the user's responsibility to properly license a Windows image/install on a server that permits pass-through licensing to virtual machines, or to use an IDE compatible with Linux.
dmroeder commented on the compatibility of Windows licensing with a specific software download. There may be a unique agreement in place with Microsoft for access to the image, or it could require a special purchase. It is possible that upon initial download, the image may display a message stating "Your Windows has not been activated" until activation is completed using a license server. Additionally, activation for factorytalk software can be done through the activation manager. It is uncertain if downloading the VM requires a special privilege. If interested, others can attempt to download Studio5k V33 from the "Free downloads" section to verify.
PreLC mentioned that the image may display "Your Windows has not been activated" until activation through a license server, with an activation manager available for FactoryTalk software. Unsure if downloading the Studio5k V33 VM is a special privilege, they asked others to try accessing it through the "Free downloads" section. The download is currently available for PreLC, who is in the process of downloading it.
Unfortunately, the delivery method for the OVA was rather cumbersome, as it was packaged in a self-extracting RAR file instead of a simple download. This resulted in the download size doubling after extraction, and once again after installation of the OVA. This led to a storage consumption of over 100GB between the RAR file, extracted OVA, and disk image. Additionally, there were issues with booting the OVA in VirtualBox. Despite these challenges, I am determined to find a solution.
I successfully downloaded and installed Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC on VMWare Workstation 14 Pro. As PreLC mentioned, a license server is required to legally run this version. Since we do not have a Windows license server, I stopped using it after 30 minutes. When I first booted up the virtual machine, it prompted me for a 10-digit key with hyphens, similar to a Rockwell license. The popup indicated that it would continuously loop until the key was entered, but as I did not have the key, I was unable to proceed. Interestingly, after an update to VMWare tools and a log off, the key prompt disappeared upon logging back in. Despite multiple reboots, I could not retrieve the prompt, leaving me unsure of its purpose. Access to the VM seemed restricted due to the absence of a valid Windows license.
While experimenting with the VM, I successfully connected to a license server, accessed the internet, and utilized FactoryTalk View Studio v12 (ME) on one of the machines on the network. The desktop background featured the PlantPax logo, giving an insight into the preinstalled software on the VM.
Hey everyone! I successfully obtained the license and managed to download multiple parts, merge them into a single OVA file, and extract the VMDK file using WinRAR. After converting the VMDK to VHD with VirtualBox's VMManage.exe tool, I imported it into Hyper V with success. I'm excited to explore all the features it has to offer!
Looking for a multi-version download of Studio 5000 for your PLCs? I recently had the same struggle at my plant, which has 4 different firmware versions. I found that certain versions, like 20.05.00, offer the multi-version download under the free download section. If you need multiple software versions, look for it on the download page. Check out the attached image for reference.
Operaghost pondered: Perhaps I am mistaken... This is what I was hoping to find. Could there have been versions like V29 or V25? Click to expand to explore further.
I was in need of a specific version, V29, for my download. However, I was surprised to see that some versions were skipped in the multi download process. It's unclear why this jump occurred.
Jrickard mentioned that one of the versions he needed was V29, which was missing from the multi download bundle. Versions V25, V26, V27, and V29 were primarily released to introduce hardware support. Despite their quick release succession, it was advised by representatives to skip V25-V27 and use V28 and V30 instead, as they were the official product launches. It is possible that they were excluded from the download bundle due to not being widely used. However, these versions can still be obtained individually.
It is understandable now. According to dmroeder, versions 25, 26, 27, and 29 were mainly introduced to provide support for new hardware. Our representatives advised against using them and recommended opting for versions 28 and 30, as they were officially launched products. It is possible that they were excluded from the download bundle due to their limited usage. However, you can still obtain them separately. Click here to learn more.
Without Studio 5000 Pro, users miss out on the opportunity to access the multi-version download, causing frustration. Despite having mid-range tool kits, the inclusion of only 5000 standard limits access to the multi-version download. With regional technicians needing to set up laptops with multiple versions, the process becomes time-consuming. This feature would be highly beneficial and should be accessible to all users.
Daniel LeRoy expressed confusion as to why this particular offering is not accessible to all individuals. In simple terms, the use of software, licenses, and various other tools can contribute to acquiring assets such as yachts, private jets, helicopters, and vacations at luxury resorts.
At I_Automation, we believe that investing in software licenses and other tools can enhance various aspects of your life, such as luxury yachts, private jets, helicopters, and exclusive vacation resorts. While we acknowledge the value of these investments, the high costs associated with our tool kits can sometimes be a concern.
Daniel LeRoy mentioned that although they understand the situation, they invest a significant amount of money in their tool kits. It's important to consider that with the recent changes, they might end up paying even more.
If you haven't already, consider reaching out to your sales representative for assistance. It seems that enabling downloads for everyone on the standard license may simply require a manual checkbox to be checked off. It doesn't appear to be intentionally restricted by licensing, as it is not a prominently promoted feature.
PreLC suggested reaching out to your sales representative for assistance. They believe that enabling downloads for everyone on the standard license may simply require checking off a checkbox. It is unlikely that this feature is purposely restricted by license, as it is not actively promoted. Take their advice into consideration and investigate further. Rest assured, we will provide an update once we have more information.
Update on Access to All
I just wanted to provide an update regarding access to all resources. For more information on this topic, please refer to a knowledge base article available at https://rockwellautomation.custhelp.com/app/answers/answer_view/a_id/1089691/loc/en_US#__highlightDocument ID IN10595 Published Date 03/13/2022.
It is important to note that the results may vary depending on the Version and minor version numbers. For example, when selecting V 33.00.02, you will have access to a larger multi-version installer and the option to download the virtual image. On the other hand, selecting V 33.01.01 will only show 3 versions in the multi-version installer with no virtual image available. Some versions may not have a multi-installer option at all.
I hope this clarifies any confusion that may have arisen from the results you were seeing.
I want to clarify a point here. In my previous post, I tested the features using a Pro license. However, as shown in the image below, a standard license also provides the same options. This comparison highlights the versatility of a standard license when it comes to accessing advanced features.
Thank you for the suggestion! It is very convenient to have all versions readily available on one device.
Seb94 expressed appreciation for the helpful tip of having all software versions readily available on a single device. This is particularly beneficial for field service technicians who may encounter various software versions in the field. Personally, I have multiple versions installed on both my main laptop and office PC, as well as a USB HDD containing all downloads, firmware updates, and a comprehensive collection of Knowledgebase articles and associated files. Having quick access to this information can be invaluable for troubleshooting and resolving issues efficiently.
Apologies for revisiting an old discussion, but I wanted to share some valuable information for those who come across this. As of now, version 35.00.02 is available, offering multiple download options for different versions:
- 35.00.01: 3 choices, including the extended version (V35-V30, V28, V24, V21, V20)
- 35.00.00:
- 34.01.00:
- 33.01.01:
- 33.01.00:
It is important to note that these multi-version installers may not always include the most up-to-date minor releases. Be sure to check for any necessary updates after installation. Version 33.00.02 was the last known version to include a VM distribution. While we hope for more in the future, it's best not to set high expectations. ~Trevor
Stay updated with the latest multi-versions. The 36.00.01 download includes Studio 5000 version 36.00.00. In the Free download section, you can find a multi-version download featuring v36 (36.00.00), v35 (35.01.00), and v34 (34.03.00). Unfortunately, there is no extended multi-version available for v36 yet. Additionally, a updated VM download is not yet accessible. For a smooth installation process, follow these steps:
1. Begin with the Extended Multi-Version from v35.00.01 (installing V35 - V30, V28, V24, V21, V20).
2. Proceed to install the Multi-Version from V36.00.01 (installing V36, and updating V35 and V34).
3. Install V31.02.00 (previous multi-version included only v31.01.00).
4. Install V32.04.00 (previous multi-version included only v32.03.00).
5. Install V33.03.00 (previous multi-version included only v33.02.00).
6. Update to Studio 5000 Application Code Manager 4.04.00 (supports v36).
7. Update to Studio 5000 Architect 8.00.00.
Don't forget to install the March 2024 Monthly Rollup Patches (or newer) to address important issues! This streamlined approach ensures a fully functional VM for RA on Windows 10 or 11 with minimal installations needed. Note: Known issues in v36 may affect 3rd party EDS files and the 5094 modules' UDTs. RA is actively working on solutions for these issues. Stay tuned for further updates on multi-version releases.
Important Reminder: Please refrain from sending private messages regarding the availability of a pre-installed VM image. Providing such an image would constitute a breach of Rockwell's license agreement. A legitimate license with active support is necessary to access the software, and I must adhere to these terms. Additionally, stay tuned for updated instructions that will be posted soon.