Hello everyone, I have been dealing with the task of recovering HMI project files from TCP quick panels at our facility. Previously, we utilized an older laptop with Windows XP and Quick Designer 3.7 for managing the HMI programs. Unfortunately, the laptop is missing and the files were not backed up. I have purchased Proficy Machine Edition but have been unsuccessful in uploading the files to create a project. I am considering obtaining Quick Designer 3.7 and completing the task on another PC with Windows XP. However, I am facing difficulty in finding a place to purchase and download the software. Can anyone provide assistance with this issue? Thank you.
When attempting to retrieve the project from the HMI using Proficy Machine Edition, did you encounter any error messages? It's important to note that using PME to retrieve a program from the HMI that was created with Quick Designer may have limitations. However, you can import a Quick Designer *.prj file into a PME project. There could be a couple of reasons why you are facing issues. Firstly, Quick Panels require a special serial cable for upload/download as the port on the HMI is not standard RS232. You may need a cable with a built-in converter to ensure compatibility. Additionally, having a real serial port on your computer instead of a USB/serial converter could also make a difference. Another reason for difficulty in extracting the project file from the HMI could be that the original programmer did not include the project files when transferring the compiled runtime file from Quick Designer to the HMI. According to PME Help, QuickDesigner applications can be imported to QuickPanel targets from a QuickDesigner project file or directly from the QuickPanel target itself. It's important to ensure compatibility with applications generated with QuickDesigner 3.20 or later when importing from a project file (*.PRJ). When uploading directly from a QuickPanel target, make sure that the original application files were stored on the QuickPanel unit with the "Store Project in Panel" option enabled during compilation and download from QuickDesigner.
Thank you for the information. I have the correct cable tool, P/N GPW-CB02, which was previously used with my old laptop. When attempting to upload in PME, I encountered the following feedback in the Feedback Zone: "Starting Upload From QuickPanel, COM port opened successfully, Connection Established, Changing BPS Rate, Unable to create upload file." After consulting with a customer questions troubleshooter in PME, it was determined that the files cannot be recovered using PME. I am struggling to locate the Quick Designer software to potentially rescue the files in that manner.
Below, I have linked the TCP/GE flavor QuickDesigner V3.7 for download. You can try it out for free for a period of 4 days. Get your hands on this powerful software now: https://ufile.io/3rffv.
Based on my experience, I found that GE customer support is fairly accommodating when it comes to re-registering an older QuickDesigner software version, as long as you provide a valid serial number. By downloading the trial version from the provided link and contacting GE with your serial number, you should be able to get the software up and running again. Another suggestion is to set up a virtual machine with Windows XP on a modern laptop to run QuickDesigner. This way, you won't have to depend on aging hardware that may eventually malfunction.
If you are encountering the error message "Unable to create upload file," it may be due to a Windows administrator setting that is attempting to save the file in a folder requiring administrator privileges. To resolve this issue, try changing the default save location for projects to a folder outside of the Users/xx/Documents directory, such as C:\HMI\. I faced a similar issue with RSLogix 5 due to the default save location.
It sounds like you're dealing with quite a conundrum. The first thing I'd like to advise is always ensure you have a rock-solid backup in the future, it can save lots of headaches down the road. As for your current predicament, I'd suggest reaching out to the original manufacturer or the software provider. They may be able to provide you with a copy of Quick Designer 3.7 or at least guide you on how to proceed. Alternatively, if you can get Proficy Machine Edition to work, it's a more modern and flexible tool. I've heard of some people having success by contacting GE's support line directly for such issues. Hope this helps and good luck with your restoration efforts!
Hi there, it sounds like you're dealing with a fairly complex issue. I agree with your suggestion about obtaining Quick Designer 3.7, as trying to upload the files directly to Proficy Machine Edition might not be compatible. Unfortunately, finding vintage software like Quick Designer 3.7 can be quite difficult. However, you might have some luck on websites like eBay, where sometimes people sell old software copies. Additionally, another suggestion could be to reach out to the manufacturers of the software, they might be able to provide you a solution given your specific predicament. Just be sure that any software you do purchase comes with the appropriate licensing. Best of luck!
Hey there! It sounds like you're in quite a bind. As an old hat in this field, I might recommend contacting GE directly; they might still have Quick Designer 3.7 and be willing to provide it to you, given your circumstances. Alternatively, you could also try visiting some forums dedicated to automation and controls; members there might have the software you're looking for. You might also want to consider setting up a more robust backup system for the future. A cloud-based solution could save you a lot of time and headaches down the line. Hope this helps!
I've had similar experiences in the past where I needed to find legacy software for older systems and one of my go-to sources has been eBay. You'd be surprised how many people are selling old software there at a fraction of the original price. Even if you can't find Quick Designer 3.7, it's likely you can find another version that might still be compatible with your panel. As for Proficy Machine Edition, have you checked if there are any software patches available? Sometimes issues with older files can be resolved with a simple patch or update. And in the future, I would definitely recommend keeping backup copies of all your project files to avoid this kind of situation.
It sounds like a challenging situation! If you're still looking for Quick Designer 3.7, you might try reaching out to GE’s support or checking their website, as they might be able to provide a copy or point you in the right direction. There are also some vintage software resellers online that specialize in older industrial software—just make sure to verify that the source is reputable. Additionally, if you have access to online forums or communities focused on HMI programming or industrial automation, they can be a great resource for tips and possibly even locating that software. Good luck, and I hope you’re able to recover those files soon!
I totally understand your frustration—losing those files is a tough situation! If you can’t find Quick Designer 3.7, you might want to check online marketplaces or forums specifically for legacy software, as sometimes users sell copies or can offer tips on where to find downloads. Additionally, connecting with a community of industrial automation professionals might help; they may have leads or even spare copies of the software. Lastly, consider reaching out to GE or any local distributors who might still have access to older versions—they might surprise you! Good luck!
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Answer: - Unfortunately, Quick Designer 3.7 is no longer readily available for purchase as it is an older software version. You may need to search for third-party sellers or inquire within industrial automation forums for potential sources.
Answer: - It may be challenging to recover HMI project files without the original software used to create them. You can try reaching out to automation software vendors or professionals for alternative solutions.
Answer: - While it is possible to upload and work with project files from different software platforms in some cases, compatibility issues may arise. You may need to explore additional options or seek expert advice to successfully recover the files.
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