Optimizing Logix Designer/5000 Tag Database for Improved Efficiency

Question:

Hello everyone, I am currently working on a program that will serve as a component of a larger plant control system for a hydroelectric power station. This program has been successfully implemented at several other stations. However, the contractor is using the plant control program from a previous facility as a template for building their program. To create our program, we essentially transferred our existing routines from the previous station's program to the contractor's system and imported our tags from there. As a result, we have encountered a significant amount of unnecessary clutter and instances where the same base tag is listed under two different aliases. While this may not impact operational efficiency since the contractor is primarily utilizing their own tags, the bloated tag database is causing unnecessary complexity. My main query is whether there is a method to identify and remove any unused tags within the program. This will help streamline the tag database and make it more efficient. If anyone has insights or recommendations on this, it would be greatly appreciated. For clarification, the Logix Designer being utilized is V24.00.00 (CPR 9 SR 7.1). Thank you for your assistance.

Top Replies

Within your Controller & Program Tags, there is a dropdown filter available. By selecting the option for "Unused Tags," you will be able to view a list of tags that have not been utilized in the program. This feature allows you to easily identify and manage tags that are not being used.

Wow, that was a simple fix. It looks like I overlooked the filter/search options. Thanks once again for pointing it out!

It is important to note that even if those tags are being utilized by an HMI, they will still appear as unused. This is something to watch out for and be cautious about.

It's important to remember that unused tags may still appear if they are being utilized by an HMI system. It's crucial to proceed with caution when dealing with this issue. The HMI is not set up yet, and another contractor suggested removing unused bits from the database. This information is valuable to keep in mind. Thank you!

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It sounds like you're dealing with a classic case of 'tag bloat.' I've encountered this issue in the past, and one approach that worked for me was to use a reference tracker tool associated with Logix Designer. This tool identifies and keeps track of all the tag references, allowing you to locate and remove unused tags systematically. Alternatively, Rockwell Automation provides an 'AssetCentre' software, which reportedly includes a tag usage tool designed specifically for these circumstances. I hope this assists in refining your tag database and simplifying your process. Good luck!

You might want to investigate the Cross Reference feature in Logix Designer. This will help you identify tags that are never referenced nor used. You can compile a list and proceed to delete them individually, ensuring not to disrupt any working functionality. Another approach could be to use a third-party software for ACD file analysis to identify and remove unused tags, though there is a cost involved. Finally, it's good practice to maintain some version control and create a backup before such major cleanup to ensure if anything goes wrong, you can revert to the previous working state.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How can I identify and remove unused tags in my Logix Designer program to improve efficiency?

Answer: - You can identify and remove unused tags by examining the tag database in your Logix Designer program. Look for tags that are not associated with any logic or operation in the program and consider deleting them to streamline the database.

FAQ: 2. What are the potential consequences of having a bloated tag database in Logix Designer?

Answer: - A bloated tag database can lead to unnecessary complexity, confusion, and difficulties in managing the program. It may also impact readability, maintenance, and troubleshooting efforts in the long run.

FAQ: 3. Is it common to encounter instances where the same base tag is listed under different aliases in Logix Designer programs?

Answer: - Yes, it is not uncommon to encounter instances where the same base tag is listed under multiple aliases in Logix Designer programs, especially when importing tags from different sources or templates. However, such redundancy can contribute to clutter and inefficiency in the tag database.

FAQ: 4. What version of Logix Designer is being used in this scenario?

Answer: - The Logix Designer version being utilized in this scenario is V24.00.00 (CPR 9 SR 7.1). It's important to note the specific version as different versions may have varying features and tools for optimizing the tag database.

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