Upgrade plans are in place for our production servers with a focus on enhancing performance and efficiency. The latest version of FTView 6.1 introduces a HMI Server backup and restore tool, which simplifies the process by copying the folder structure. However, it is important to note that the tool may not be able to copy the HMI tags unless the HMI server service is stopped. In order to ensure a smooth transition, it is crucial to test the backup before shutting down the production server. Multiple test VMs running on version 14 have been set up for this purpose. During testing, it was discovered that restoring the HMI server led to project loading failures due to the tag database being inaccessible. Removing the files from the TAG folder in the backup and performing a restore resolved this issue, although HMI tags were not retained. Are there any other options or suggestions for a successful backup and restore process? Your feedback and advice are greatly appreciated. - Chris
If you're considering upgrading from version 6.x to version 14, you may encounter database compatibility issues. It is recommended to seek assistance from the Knowledgebase or your distributor for guidance. It is likely that an incremental upgrade to version 10 before moving to version 14 may be necessary. Another option could be to create a new project in version 14 and import individual elements such as graphic files and macros. The tag database will need to be exported to a CSV format. Additionally, please note that HMI tag alarming was deprecated around version 10, but there is a tool available to convert to A&E for seamless transition. For further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to technical support or consult relevant resources for a smooth upgrade process.
Thank you for responding. We are currently using A&E alarms, which simplifies things. From my initial testing, it seems that it is capable of performing a direct backup and restore of various data, including graphics, macros, parameters, and images. However, I am encountering difficulties with the tag database. I attempted to take a backup after shutting down the SE services to see if it would allow for an import without being locked. I did not find an option for CSV export, but I will continue to search for it. I am considering an incremental upgrade and will need to set up different operating systems since only v14 is compatible with 2022 (2019 seems fairly compatible for a leap).
While browsing, creativepaper noted the absence of a CSV export option but expressed interest in finding one. The process of importing and exporting CSV files is handled on servers. To access the "Tag Import and Export Wizard," navigate to the Start menu or locate it at C:\ProgramData\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Rockwell Software\FactoryTalk View\Tools.
In my testing so far, the following steps have been successful: - Backing up and restoring the FTDBackup old v6.1 project using HMI Backup & Restore on a 2008r2 OS resulted in a tag database error. - Using the Tag import and Export wizard to export to a CSV file on a 2022 OS v14. - Creating a new area and HMI server on the 2022 OS v14 and importing the *.sed backup, which imported everything except for the tag database. - Importing the HMI tags into the project using the Tag import and Export wizard (thanks Glennz). It appears that all the necessary components are present, and setting up alarms and events through import/export is a straightforward process. When upgrading the database, it is important to verify the connections for Alarm & Events and Historian. Make sure to check for any other necessary SQL connections and any additional offline checks that may be needed.
Hi Chris, it sounds like you're facing quite the challenge with the HMI server restoration! One option to consider is leveraging the built-in export functionality for HMI tags before starting the backup process. This way, you can save the tag definitions separately and re-import them after restoration. Additionally, exploring whether there's an updated procedure or tool from the vendor for managing tags during backup could also provide a more seamless experience. It might be worth reaching out to their support for any best practices they've encountered with the new version. Good luck with the upgrades!
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Answer: Answer: Testing the backup ensures that all necessary data and configurations have been successfully copied and can be restored without any issues. It helps in identifying potential problems before the actual upgrade process takes place.
Answer: Answer: One option is to remove the files from the TAG folder in the backup before performing the restore. This action can help resolve issues related to the tag database being inaccessible, although it may result in the loss of HMI tags that were not retained during the restore.
Answer: Answer: Some suggestions for a successful backup and restore process include ensuring that the HMI server service is stopped to copy HMI tags, testing the backup before shutting down the production server, and considering other backup and restore tools or methods that may be available for more efficient and reliable data migration.
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