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PCE Line Manager - PLM 4.15Document Version A

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PCE Line Manager - PLM 4.15 - User Manual - Document Version A 2/22/2017 3:06 PM - SchemaST4 PDF engine - Layout by Victor Mahler

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2 / 214 PCE Line Manager - PLM 4.15 - User Manual - Document Version A

Table of Contents

1 Introduction to the Manual 91.1 Scope and Intended Users............................................................................................. 91.2 Service ....................................................................................................................... 91.3 Language ................................................................................................................... 91.4 Formatting and Meaning .............................................................................................. 101.5 Visibility of Buttons and Screens .................................................................................... 101.6 How to Use Screenshots ............................................................................................... 10

2 General Information 112.1 Menu Tree................................................................................................................... 112.2 Screen Elements Overview ............................................................................................ 122.3 Starting the PLM .......................................................................................................... 132.4 Logging In and Logging Out.......................................................................................... 132.5 Input Function ............................................................................................................ 15

2.5.1 Remote Control ............................................................................................. 162.6 Home Screen............................................................................................................... 17

3 Functions Overview 183.1 Scope......................................................................................................................... 183.2 Marking and Capturing of Items..................................................................................... 183.3 Link of Control Devices ................................................................................................. 183.4 Level Definitions .......................................................................................................... 19

4 Administration of Users and Groups 204.1 User Management........................................................................................................ 20

4.1.1 Creating a New User ..................................................................................... 214.1.2 Editing a User Account................................................................................... 214.1.3 Adding a User to a Group .............................................................................. 224.1.4 Adding or Withdrawing Rights to a User........................................................... 224.1.5 Changing the Password of a User ................................................................... 234.1.6 Deleting a User Account ................................................................................. 23

4.2 Creating and Editing Groups.......................................................................................... 234.2.1 Creating a New Group .................................................................................. 244.2.2 Adding or Withdrawing Rights to a Group ....................................................... 244.2.3 Deleting a Group Account............................................................................... 25

4.3 Active Directory............................................................................................................ 26

5 Preparation for Production 275.1 Overview of Production ................................................................................................ 275.2 Creating and Editing Devices......................................................................................... 27

5.2.1 The System Settings Overview Screen .............................................................. 275.2.2 Editing System Settings.................................................................................. 295.2.3 System Parameters List.................................................................................. 305.2.3.1 Taking Screenshots ................................................................................ 335.2.3.2 Local Cache Mode................................................................................... 335.2.4 Creating a Device.......................................................................................... 345.2.5 Deleting a Device .......................................................................................... 355.2.6 PLC ............................................................................................................. 355.2.6.1 Import / Export (XML settings file) ............................................................. 365.2.6.2 Parameters............................................................................................. 375.2.6.3 Teach ................................................................................................... 375.2.6.4 PLC Siemens .......................................................................................... 385.2.7 Printers ........................................................................................................ 395.2.7.1 Printer Mode........................................................................................... 395.2.7.2 Wolke ................................................................................................... 395.2.7.3 Domino ................................................................................................. 405.2.7.4 Zebra ..................................................................................................... 415.2.7.5 Integration of NiceLabel............................................................................ 425.2.8 Cameras ...................................................................................................... 46

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5.2.8.1 Reader Modes ....................................................................................... 465.2.8.2 Smart Camera ........................................................................................ 505.2.8.3 Aggregation with Smart Camera ................................................................ 515.2.8.4 Setting up a Product in SMC ..................................................................... 535.2.8.5 High Resolution Camera .......................................................................... 625.2.9 Use cases for Printer/Reader Modes with China Coding ..................................... 635.2.10 Hand Scanner............................................................................................... 655.2.11 Checkweigher ............................................................................................... 675.2.12 UPS............................................................................................................. 685.2.13 Comparator VGL7/VGL8................................................................................. 695.2.14 Garvens X-series weigher............................................................................... 705.2.15 PCE Reporter ................................................................................................ 705.2.16 PCE_DECOM_FINALIZER ................................................................................ 71

5.3 Configuring IP Addresses ............................................................................................. 725.3.1 Allocating IP Addresses ................................................................................. 725.3.2 Internal Remote Control.................................................................................. 735.3.3 Example of IP Allocation ................................................................................ 735.3.4 COM Interface IPs.......................................................................................... 755.3.5 Entering IP addresses at the Devices .............................................................. 75

6 Production 766.1 Production Settings Screen............................................................................................ 766.2 Line Format................................................................................................................. 76

6.2.1 Line Format Setup Procedure .......................................................................... 766.2.2 Add/Edit Line Format Screen .......................................................................... 776.2.3 Creating a New Line Format ........................................................................... 776.2.4 Editing Line Formats...................................................................................... 786.2.5 Use Wildcard Function................................................................................... 786.2.6 Editing Device Settings at Line Format ............................................................. 786.2.7 Device Settings at Line Format - PLC ............................................................... 816.2.8 Device Settings at Line Format - Smart Camera ................................................ 836.2.9 Device Settings at Line Format - High Resolution Camera ................................. 836.2.10 Device Settings at Line Format - Comparator 7/8 ............................................. 846.2.11 Device Settings at Line Format - Hand Scanner ................................................ 856.2.12 Device Settings at Line Format - Printer Item Level............................................. 856.2.13 Device Settings at Line Format - Zebra Case Level ............................................. 866.2.14 Line Format Report ........................................................................................ 86

6.3 Product Management ................................................................................................... 866.3.1 Product Management Screen .......................................................................... 876.3.2 Creating and Deleting a Product...................................................................... 876.3.3 Adding and Deleting Application IDs at a Product.............................................. 88

6.4 Order Management ...................................................................................................... 896.4.1 Loading an Order via Hand Scanner ............................................................... 896.4.2 Adding and Editing Orders ............................................................................. 896.4.3 Adding a New Order ..................................................................................... 906.4.4 Editing an Order ........................................................................................... 906.4.5 Adding Order Details ..................................................................................... 926.4.6 Deleting an Order ......................................................................................... 926.4.7 Creating an Order Report................................................................................ 926.4.8 Resetting the Order Status .............................................................................. 936.4.9 Move Order to Line ........................................................................................ 936.4.10 Reopening a Closed Order ............................................................................. 93

6.5 Start/Stop Production.................................................................................................... 946.5.1 Starting Production via Order .......................................................................... 946.5.2 Automatic Production Stop ............................................................................. 956.5.3 Starting Production via Order > Test Run ......................................................... 956.5.4 Starting Test Run via Line Format .................................................................... 966.5.5 Production Menu during Production ................................................................ 97

6.6 Serialization ................................................................................................................ 986.6.1 Internal Handling of SNs ................................................................................ 986.6.2 Serialization Settings at the PLM Software ....................................................... 986.6.3 Post-Production Serial Number Check ............................................................. 99


6.7 Aggregation................................................................................................................. 1016.7.1 Functional Principle of Aggregation ................................................................. 1016.7.2 Serialization / Aggregation Preconditions ......................................................... 1026.7.3 Serialization with XMV ................................................................................... 1026.7.4 Aggregation Status ........................................................................................ 1026.7.5 Aggregation with ABS ................................................................................... 1046.7.6 Aggregation with SCS ................................................................................... 1056.7.7 Aggregation with MAS ................................................................................... 1066.7.8 Aggregation Examples .................................................................................. 1066.7.8.1 Item - Bundle - Case (by Reading Bundle Labels) - Pallet ........................... 1076.7.8.2 Item - Bundle - Case (by Reading Item Label) - Pallet ................................ 1086.7.8.3 Item - Case - Pallet.................................................................................. 1106.7.8.4 Item - Pallet............................................................................................ 1116.7.9 Manual Aggregation Actions ........................................................................... 1126.7.9.1 Destroying Parent Label (Reversing Aggregation)........................................ 1126.7.9.2 Deleting Parent/Child Relation (deaggregate).............................................. 1126.7.9.3 Suspending an Order ............................................................................... 1126.7.9.4 Finishing an Order Before it is completed .................................................. 1136.7.9.5 Commissioning and Decommissioning a Unit ............................................ 1136.7.9.6 Closing an Incomplete Unit (partial case)................................................... 1136.7.9.7 Viewing Aggregation Rank of a Unit ........................................................... 1136.7.9.8 Re-printing a Label with same SN or Different SN ........................................ 1146.7.9.9 Handling Incomplete Units When Order is finished ...................................... 1146.7.9.10 Run Testorder with Imported GTIN ............................................................. 1156.7.10 Manual Aggregation by Scanning a Barcode .................................................... 1156.7.10.1 Creating a Barcode Command.................................................................. 1156.7.10.2 List of Commands................................................................................... 1166.7.10.3 Commonly used Barcodes ....................................................................... 119

6.8 Troubleshooting........................................................................................................... 1196.8.1 Treating Products after an Interruption.............................................................. 1196.8.2 Avoiding Waste of Items after an Interruption ................................................... 1206.8.2.1 Use Wildcards globally for all Line Formats ................................................ 1206.8.2.2 Use Wildcards Line Format Specific .......................................................... 1216.8.3 HRC Offset is too large................................................................................... 1226.8.4 Printer Offset is too Large / Small .................................................................... 1236.8.5 Ejector Offset is too Large / Small ................................................................... 1236.8.6 Scanner Offset is too Large / Small .................................................................. 1236.8.7 “Processing Timeout” at the HRC AI-CORE (SCS) .............................................. 124

6.9 Device Options during Production .................................................................................. 1266.9.1 Smart Camera .............................................................................................. 1276.9.2 Check of Serial Number ................................................................................. 1276.9.3 High Resolution Camera ................................................................................ 1286.9.4 Hand Scanner............................................................................................... 1286.9.4.1 Show Information ................................................................................... 1296.9.4.2 Show Hierarchy ...................................................................................... 1296.9.4.3 Show Aggregation .................................................................................. 1306.9.4.4 Debug Console ....................................................................................... 1306.9.5 Wolke Printer Menu during Production............................................................. 1316.9.5.1 Machine Settings..................................................................................... 1316.9.5.2 Ink Level Settings .................................................................................... 1326.9.5.3 Cleaning Wolke-Cartridges ...................................................................... 1326.9.5.4 Show in Process Control .......................................................................... 1326.9.5.5 Label Preview ......................................................................................... 1336.9.6 Domino Printer Menu..................................................................................... 1336.9.7 Camera Menu during Production..................................................................... 1336.9.8 PLC ............................................................................................................. 135

6.10 Communication with PCE Site Manager .......................................................................... 1356.11 Alarms ....................................................................................................................... 135

7 Quick Reference 1367.1 Installation and Setup................................................................................................... 136

7.1.1 Set up an Order............................................................................................. 136


7.1.2 Set up a Product ........................................................................................... 1367.1.3 Installation of a New PLM .............................................................................. 1407.1.3.1 Installing a New PLM and Keep the Previous One ....................................... 140

7.2 Manual Operations....................................................................................................... 1407.2.1 Handle Items at Power Failure or E-Stop .......................................................... 1407.2.2 Reprint a Case or Pallet Label......................................................................... 1407.2.3 Continue Suspended Order ............................................................................. 1417.2.4 Suspend an Order ......................................................................................... 1417.2.5 View Hierarchy.............................................................................................. 1417.2.6 Aggregate an Item to a closed Partial Case ...................................................... 1417.2.7 Aggregate a case to a closed partial pallet ....................................................... 1417.2.8 Aggregate pallet to Shipment .......................................................................... 1417.2.9 Aggregate Item to Case at MAS ....................................................................... 141

8 System Settings 1438.1 Defining Database Connection....................................................................................... 1438.2 Switching between Lines............................................................................................... 143

8.2.1 Changing global System Settings .................................................................... 1438.3 Second Signature Configuration ..................................................................................... 143

8.3.1 Activating Second Signature ........................................................................... 1448.3.2 Second Signature Group ................................................................................ 1448.3.3 Message Configuration Screen........................................................................ 1458.3.4 Action Configuration Screen............................................................................ 1458.3.5 Importing / Exporting the Second Signature XML File ......................................... 145

8.4 Importing ERP Data over XML Configuration.................................................................... 1468.5 E-mail Notification ....................................................................................................... 1468.6 Edit Month Name List ................................................................................................... 1478.7 System Information ...................................................................................................... 149

8.7.1 Extracting System Information ........................................................................ 1508.7.2 System Logging ............................................................................................ 150

8.8 Remove / Save Error Images ........................................................................................ 151

9 Statistics 1529.1 Log File Management ................................................................................................... 1529.2 View Statistics ............................................................................................................. 153

9.2.1 Counters ...................................................................................................... 1549.2.2 Print Quality ................................................................................................. 1549.2.3 Show Error Images........................................................................................ 1559.2.4 Database Statistics ....................................................................................... 1559.2.5 Serial Number Traceability.............................................................................. 1559.2.5.1 Single Serial Number View........................................................................ 1569.2.5.2 Order View ............................................................................................. 1579.2.5.3 Quality Sample ....................................................................................... 157

10 Master Slave Feature 15810.1 Introduction and Scope................................................................................................. 15810.2 PC Configuration.......................................................................................................... 15910.3 PLM Configuration ....................................................................................................... 159

10.3.1 Database Setup ............................................................................................ 15910.3.2 Internal Connection ....................................................................................... 16110.3.3 Line Setup .................................................................................................... 16110.3.4 Device Creation for PLM_SLAVE ...................................................................... 16110.3.5 Slave Visualization in Master .......................................................................... 16210.3.6 State Information........................................................................................... 16210.3.7 Alarms......................................................................................................... 16310.3.8 Line Formats and Orders................................................................................ 16310.3.9 Device Frame ............................................................................................... 16310.3.10 Log File, Audit Trail........................................................................................ 164

10.4 PSM........................................................................................................................... 164

11 Backup and Restore Settings 16511.1 Backup Log File........................................................................................................... 165


11.2 Backup Camera Formats .............................................................................................. 16511.3 Backup Line Format .................................................................................................... 16611.4 Backup System Settings................................................................................................ 16611.5 Backup PLC Settings .................................................................................................... 16711.6 Backup Default Settings of the Devices / System.............................................................. 168

12 Appendix 16912.1 User Rights Table......................................................................................................... 16912.2 Device Classes ............................................................................................................ 17912.3 AI Management ........................................................................................................... 18212.4 Reports....................................................................................................................... 192

12.4.1 Bollini Report................................................................................................ 19312.4.2 China Serial Report........................................................................................ 19412.4.3 French Order Report....................................................................................... 19612.4.4 Counter Report.............................................................................................. 19712.4.5 Order Report ................................................................................................. 19912.4.6 Hierarchy Report ........................................................................................... 20012.4.7 Line Format Report ........................................................................................ 20112.4.8 Logfile Report ............................................................................................... 20312.4.9 Confirm Report.............................................................................................. 205

12.5 Regular Expressions..................................................................................................... 20612.6 Date Values ................................................................................................................ 20912.7 Supported Printers........................................................................................................ 21012.8 Abbreviations and Terms .............................................................................................. 211


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1 Introduction to the Manual

1.1 Scope and Intended UsersThis manual describes how to use and configure the PCE Line Manager (PLM). It is intended for personnelwho operate the PLM in order to control a vision inspection system for packing lines.This includes:• Operators• Supervisors• Administrators• EngineersAll vision products from METTLER TOLEDO PCE use the PLM software. Consequently, this manual isapplicable for all PCE vision products.

For information on how to use the PLM in combination with an ERP system, read the PCE Site Manager(PSM) Operator Manual.

1.2 ServiceIf you wish to contact the Service Department, please have as much information on hand as possible:• Machine type• Serial number• Line name• METTLER TOLEDO PCE order number and date• Software version• Precise wording of the displayed error message or detailed fault description• Your contact detailsThe Service Department will send you a technical questionnaire to analyze your technical request.Completing this questionnaire will help us to solve your technical issue in an efficient way.

Country E-Mail Address PhoneAustria [email protected] +43 1 6041990

France [email protected] +33 825 00 15 15

Germany [email protected] +49 5121 933 160

Korea [email protected] +82 2 3498 3566

Switzerland [email protected] +41 44 944 47 47

USA, Mexico [email protected] +1 630-446-7716

Rest of the World [email protected] +49 6251 8545-555

1.3 LanguageThis English document is the original document.


1.4 Formatting and MeaningThe formats used in this manual have determined meanings. If they are used they denote the following:

Format MeaningPC Menu Paths, Buttons at the screen surface, fixed tab

names, names of screens and dialogs

'apostrophes' Names of fields, checkboxes, modes, parameters

wildcard for tab names of devices (individualnames can be assigned)

1.5 Visibility of Buttons and ScreensAlways remember that many PLM features need certain user rights. This means if your screen does not offerbuttons shown in the operator manual it is likely that you need more user rights which have to be assignedto your profile by an administrator. The usual way to assign user rights is to add a user to a user group.Thus the user obtains all user rights belonging to that group.

1.6 How to Use ScreenshotsBelow each screen you see the path how to get there1. Additional actions that are to perform at this screenare described below the screen2. Wildcard buttons3 and actions at the path4 are placed in brackets. See thefollowing example:

1Home>()3 > Menu > Product management > New product >(enter product name)4 > Enter (at the keyboard) > Live Image

2 Press Next.


2 General Information

2.1 Menu TreeThe menu tree shows the maximum possible menu structure of the system. Depending on user rights,certain menus may not be visible.

Main Menu Sub Menu

Login

System Settings Edit System SettingsCreate / Edit DeviceEdit Device SettingsSwitch LineSecond Signature Message ConfirmationSecond Signature Action ConfigurationERP Data over XML ConfigurationEdit Month Name ListSystem InformationRemove / Save Error ImagesEULA (End User License Agreement)

Log File Management

User Management Add UserRightsGroups

Backup Backup Log FileBackup Camera Formats

Production Start Production via OrderTest Run via Line FormatAdd / Edit OrderAdd / Edit Line FormatAdd / Edit ProductOrder Results Create ReportAI ManagementReset Order StatusMove Order to LineMove Serial Numbers to Order

Statistics CountersPrint QualityDB StatisticsHistoryStatistics of GarvensWeigher

Home

Confirm

Help


2.2 Screen Elements OverviewThe following figure shows the appearance of the PLM Interface. The example shows the devicesettings screen.

System Settings > Edit device settings > ()

Pos. Name Function1 Program head Statistical data of the production (current format, status of production,

batch number and line name) as well as the registered user

2 Login / LogoutButton

By clicking this button you can log in or log off.

3 Menu panel With these buttons you navigate to the main functions. These buttons arefixed.

4 SubNavigation

Here the buttons for current interaction are displayed. If an alarm occurs itis displayed here.

5 - Here you can navigate to additional options if applicable.

6 Tab menu The tab menu allows navigating to specific information and devicesettings. Note: The names of the device tabs can be assigned freely (seechapter [Creating a Device } page 34]).

7 Status Bar At the status bar error messages (red), warnings (yellow) and modifi-cations, e.g. of line format, user log-in and log-off, start/stop ofproduction (green) will be displayed. If several messages are displayed,this will be signaled by ^ after the message. By clicking the status line theinformation history will be called. The current date and time are alwaysvisible in the left corner of the status bar.


2.3 Starting the PLMTo start the PLM and the line follow the sequence listed below:1. Turn on the power supply of the stations and devices without having the PLM installed. For example

this can be MAS, SCS, ABS. Wait until software is completely up and running.2. Turn on the power supply of the stations having the PLM installed. This is usually only the DMS but can

also be another station. Wait until software is completely up and running.To automate this delay the startup waiting time at the PLM has to be configured. Press SystemSettings > Edit System Settings. At the parameter ‘WT01 Startup waiting time’ set acheckmark at the checkbox and set the waiting time to 20 seconds. See the following screen:

System Settings > Edit system settings (Start up waiting time)

Meet sequence of turning on stationsIt is essential to start at first stations and devices without having the PLM installed. If notretaining the sequence an IP-address conflict can occur.

2.4 Logging In and Logging OutAll rights in the PLM are user dependent. Different users see different screens and can perform different tasksin the PLM. After starting the PCE Line Manager you have to log in to get access to further functions in themenu panel on the right hand side of the screen.

Login


Upon clicking the log-in button in the upper right corner theinput of a user name and password will be necessary.Depending on the rights of the registered user further functionswill be available (see chapter [Administration of Users andGroups } page 20]).The name of the presently registered user will be displayed onthe button (here )

Change password if requiredUpon first login, the user may be asked to change his password (depending on the systemsettings).

Change of UserWhen a different user wants to operate the PCE Line Manager, the previous user will have to log out first. Itis guaranteed herewith that the created log and production files can be assigned to a specific user.

Setting Auto Log Out TimeAn auto log out can be adjusted optionally. The user will be logged out automatically after a preset time, aslong as he is not entering any data at the terminal. This functionality can be set under the system settings.

If using an external keyboard the keyboard displayed on thescreen can be switched off for the duration of the registrationof the user by pressing Keyboard.

Screen Keyboard can be disabled- The screen keyboard can be disabled during registration of a user by pressing keyboard. Itcan also be switched off globally for all users (see chapter [System ParametersList } page 30]) - (Using Disconnect, all connected devices are disconnected. This is a debug function forthe PCE maintenance technician!)

admin (active user button)

The following buttons at the logout screen are only displayed for administrator and engineer users:• Exit to OS• System shutdown

• PCE Line Manager shutdown• System rebootThe supervisor and operator do not see any additional buttons at the logout screen. Select one of thefunctions and confirm with OK or directly confirm with OK to log out.


2.5 Input FunctionEasy operation of the PLM by fingertip is possible thanks to the 15 inch touch display. You can operate thekeyboard displayed on the screen if inputs need to be made. The keyboard is displayed automatically, ifneeded, by clicking an input field. The appearance of the keyboard depends on the country settings.As per hardware keyboard the next field can be accessed by Tab and Shift changes to capital letters.

Keyboard1

The respective active input field, where datacan be entered will be highlighted yellow.Depending on the position of the input fieldthe keyboard will be displayed either in theupper or lower third of the screen, as suchthat the corresponding input field will remainvisible.

Move the keyboard by dragging moving and dropping it.

With these arrows the keyboard can be positioned on the upper orlower end of the screen.

Close the keyboard by pressing this button.

Switch language.

Keyboard size.

By pressing Enter the focused button at the screen will be executed. This button is easily recognized bythe black frame (see the Login button at the following example).

Frame

If using an external keyboard the keyboard displayed on the screencan be switched off for the duration of the registration of the user bypressing the button Keyboard.


Alternative Keyboard ConfigurationOptionally a modern keyboard designed analog to the Android smart phone keyboards can be used. TheLauncher.bat file has to be called with the parameter –fxkeyboard. This layout is supported from versionPLM 4.7.1.

Keyboard2

Control key functions:

Hide keyboard

Switch to other language keyboard layout

Switch to special character and number layout

Switch to control key layout

Special character and number layout:

Keyboard

Keyboard

2.5.1 Remote ControlIf you want to control the PLM software via remote control, use a common remote desktop program e.g.Teamviewer©. In addition you need an internet connection; performance will be dependent on the speed ofyour internet connection.


2.6 Home ScreenThe following figure shows the Home screen:

Home (while production is running)

Pos. Name Function1 Device Status

BarsThe main menu of the PCE Line Manager always remains visible. All operatingelements available are displayed in order to be able to change between theprogram functions (depending on the authorization level of the user).

2 Counter (Good/Bad/Overall) of the devices attached

Help ButtonThe Help button contains a HTML version of this documentation and is always visible in the lower rightcorner of the status line.


3 Functions Overview

3.1 ScopeThe PCE Line Manager (PLM) is the line management component of the PCE Software Suite. The PLMcontrols and administrates centrally at one line the devices such as printers, cameras and scanners.During start of production, the connected devices are provided with static data (e.g. LOT and EXP). As anoption, a database connection for serialization is possible (this ensures a distinct traceability of the singleunit from the manufacturer to the patient. The operator is able to manage with minimum effort all devices atthe line; the provided settings are stored in the central database.

In case of Serialization/Aggregation:A clear traceability of the individual packaging from the manufacturer right up to the patient is guaranteed.

Production line track and trace

3.2 Marking and Capturing of ItemsThe individual packaging units are typically marked via inkjet or laser printer. Thereafter they are verifiedimmediately via a multifunctional Smart Camera as to correct data content and readability.

In case of Serialization/Aggregation:The status of every unit will be registered in order to ensure traceability. All units classified as bad will beejected immediately and only units classified as good proceed the packaging process.The counter readings produced during the evaluation process are displayed in real-time and are stored inthe database after stop or completion of the production.

Datamanagement complies with 21 CFR Part 11 directivesData management and storage as well as operation of the software are in compliance with the21 CFR Part 11 directives.

3.3 Link of Control DevicesThe monitoring devices are connected directly via LAN interface, if there is one. If there is no LAN interface,devices are then connected via RS232 to LAN boxes. To the extent that this is feasible, devices areconnected in accordance with the current directives of the VDMA-Standard “VDMAXML_P”. An intelligentcomponent assures compatibility for units without VDMAXML_P capabilities.


If their interfaces are exposed, new devices can be rapidly and easily integrated with a custom-developedmodular concept. The PLM is able to communicate with other devices via Ethernet, USB and RS232.

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SMC HRC LAS HandholdScanner

Printer(e.g. m600)

PLC etc.

PCE Line Manager - IPC + HMI

Compliance with the 21 CFR Part 11Data management and storage as well as operation of the software are in compliance with the21 CFR Part 11 directives.

3.4 Level DefinitionsThis is an overview of the control levels and aggregation ranks at the aggregation/serialization process. Thefollowing figure is an example how a visual inspection production can basically look like. The detailedstructure of your system is defined at the functional specification.


4 Administration of Users and GroupsThe User Management settings at the PLM are equivalent to the settings at the PSM. Both systems use thesame user profiles. At the PLM all user rights are being managed centrally. Name, password and certainrights are assigned to each user access/group respectively. The type of right/group determines access to thepossible program functions.

User Management is pre-configuredUpon start-up the user management is pre-configured from PCE service staff!

A user management is included in order to add/edit and delete users and groups. All functions in thesoftware can be restricted due to user rights, assigned to a group or user. Rights can be assigned directly toa user, or along with other rights building a group which can then be assigned to a user.

4.1 User ManagementTo open the user management press User Management at the menu panel on the right hand sideof the screen. At the overview you can select the user you want to edit or you can create a new user.

User Management


4.1.1 Creating a New UserTo create a new user press Add.The following screen appears:

User Management > Add

Enter the new username, a password and confirm with OK

Choose a secure passwordThe password strength corresponds to the security of the password. A secure passwordcontains lower-case and upper-case letters, numbers and also special characters.

4.1.2 Editing a User AccountAfter you have selected a user to edit, the following screen appears:

User Management > Add > OK

The following options for the user can be set:• User account valid until: Here you can set how long the user account will be valid. Enter a date. After

this date access is automatically blocked.• User has to change password at next login: At the next login the user is requested to change the

password that was given by the administrator. The password strength corresponds to the security of thepassword. A secure password contains lower-case and upper-case letters, numbers and also specialcharacters.

• Locked: A user account can be locked and released. If a user no longer needs its account, access canbe locked. If a user enters the wrong password several times (number is depending upon systemsettings), the account is automatically locked. Only users with specific rights can unlock the useraccount again.


With the buttons at the lower part of the screen you can call up the corresponding functions as described inthe following chapters. The table below gives an overview of these functions:

Name FunctionGroups... Add the selected user to the desired group

Rights... Add the desired rights to the selected user

Change Password... Change the password of the selected user

Delete... Delete the selected user

4.1.3 Adding a User to a GroupSelect a user (see chapter [User Management } page 20]) and press Groups. The following screenappears:

User Management > (User) > Groups

Select the group to which you want to add the user and press Add. A screen appears where you can see towhich groups the user is already added to. Choose the group where the user has to be added. Repeat thisstep to add the user to additional groups. If you want to withdraw the user from a group select the groupand press Delete. Once you have finished editing the affiliation of the user confirm with OK to leave thescreen.

4.1.4 Adding or Withdrawing Rights to a UserSelect a user (see chapter [User Management } page 20]) and press Rights. A screen appears whereyou can see which rights are already added to the user:

User Management > (User) > Rights


Press Add and select the right you want to add to the user and confirm with OK. If you want to withdrawuser rights select the right you want to withdraw and press Delete.

4.1.5 Changing the Password of a UserSelect a user (see chapter [User Management } page 20]) and press Change Password. Thefollowing screen appears:

ser Management >(User) > Change password

The password strength corresponds to the security of the password. A secure password contains lower-caseand upper-case letters, numbers and also special characters.Enter the new password retype it and confirm with OK.

4.1.6 Deleting a User AccountSelect a user (see chapter [User Management } page 20]), press Delete and confirm with OK.

4.2 Creating and Editing GroupsWithin the groups menu you can create new groups. The “Level” setting (1 … 10) enables administratorswho do not have the “maySeeAllUsers” right to view and edit all users on lower levels (for user adminis-tration purposes).Press User Management at the menu panel on the right hand side of the screen in order to get to UserManagement/Groups. Then press Groups. The following screen appears:

User Management > Groups


4.2.1 Creating a New GroupGo to User Management - Groups (see chapter [Creating and Editing Groups } page 23]) andpress Add. The following screen appears:

User Management > Groups > Add

Enter the new group name and assign a level to the group. If required add a note. Confirm with OK.

4.2.2 Adding or Withdrawing Rights to a GroupGo to User Management - Groups (see chapter [Creating and Editing Groups } page 23]), selectthe group you want to edit and press Rights. At the following screen you can see which rights arealready added to the group:

User Management > Groups > Rights

• Add rights: Press Add and select the right you want to add to the group and confirm with OK.

• Withdraw rights: Select the right you want to withdraw and press Delete.


4.2.3 Deleting a Group AccountGo to User Management - Groups (see chapter [Creating and Editing Groups } page 23]), selectthe group you want to delete and press Delete. The group is deleted immediately.

User Management > Groups > (select group)

ADS loginIt is possible to connect/login to an Active Directory Server without creating extra users for thePCE Line Manager. The login via active directory will return a user level which is mapped tocertain groups from the PLM.


4.3 Active DirectoryNotice: These settings can only be executed by experts with respective authorization. Active Directoryrequires global settings (see chapter [Changing global System Settings } page 143]).Three basic steps have to be performed to connect the local database with Active Directory:

Step 1 - LDAP environment:1. Register groups2. Assign user to created groups

Step 2 - PLM environment:1. Create identical groups as created in the LDAP environment in the PLM2. Define rights for the respective groups in PLM

Step 3 – PLM System Settings:1. Select System Settings2. Enter IP address (Host name) of the Active Directory Server in AD013. Enter domain name of the Active Directory domain in AD024. Enter Active Directory search path in AD035. Enter Active Directory search filter in AD04

Configuration Example:

System Settings > Edit System Settings

Time synchronization is only required if there is a Kerberos authentication. This needs to be changed indomain controller.

Login if Active Directory is not accessibleIf Active Directory is not accessible, there is a standard user in all of the groups. Use this standard user tologin to PLM (see chapter [User Rights Table } page 169]).


5 Preparation for Production

5.1 Overview of ProductionThis is an overview on what has to be done prior producing a product.

Step Action Comment Explanation0 Create devices (precondition) Select Device Class. Set device Name and Settings.

1 Create product (optionally) See product management

2 Add a line format Add a line format Name the line format. Assign a product ifapplicable. Information and settings on how a lineis built up: which devices are used at the line format

Edit device settingsat line format

AI fields that have to be used are selected. (PLC,camera, printer…)

3 Create an order Information about and settings of an order includingthe AI values are entered. A line format is assignedand also a product can be assigned.

5.2 Creating and Editing DevicesImportant System settings have to be made, devices have to be created. Possible devices are:• Printers• Cameras• Hand Scanner• PLC• UPS• Com Interfaces• Servers• Comparator VGL7/VGL8• Checkweigher• Garvens Checkweigher

5.2.1 The System Settings Overview ScreenIn this menu users with administrator rights can change important system parameters.

System settings should only be changed by trained personalThe PCE tool setter pre-configures system settings at start-up! Changes of these settings canlead to a shutdown of the device!

To open the system settings overview press System Settings at the menu panel on the righthand side of the screen. The following screen appears:


At the appearing screen the available buttons lead to the functions as follows:

Name FunctionEdit system settings List where you can edit, enable or disable system-wide parameters

Create/edit device Create or edit devices for usage in line

Edit device settings Edit settings of the devices

Switch line Select another line for production

Second signature messageconfiguration

Define messages which need to be confirmed by second signature

Second signature actionconfiguration

Define actions which need to be confirmed by second signature

ERP data over XML Configu-ration

Define paths, where the PLM gets order and product data of an XMLdocument

Edit Month name list Define input and output format for the name of the month

System information Here you get information about the system like database and installeddevices

Remove/Save error images Remove or save error images

EULA View the End User License Agreement (EULA)


5.2.2 Editing System SettingsAt this screen you can edit parameters which are valid for the whole system. Press Edit systemsettings at the system settings overview (see chapter [The System Settings OverviewScreen } page 27]). The following screen appears:

System Settings > Edit System Settings

To enable a parameter set a checkmark in the corresponding checkbox and set a value if applicable.Grayed out checkboxes are global system settings, how to change them see chapter [Changing globalSystem Settings } page 143]. To apply changes at the system settings, the PLM has to be restarted. Thetable below lists all parameters that can be set here:


5.2.3 System Parameters List

ID Parameter Description Default Allowed ValuesAD01 Active Directory

Server nameName of the server with theActive Directory

- Alphanumeric

AD02 Active DirectoryDomain name

Domain name of the serverwith the Active Directory

- Alphanumeric

AD03 Active Directorysearch path

Search path in which theserver is found with the ActiveDirectory.

- Valid Path

AD04 Active Directorysearch filter

Type of user admin (&(objectClass=user))

Alphanumeric

AD05 Kerberos Use Kerberos authentication Checkbox

AD06 JAAS login configu-ration file

Configuration for ActiveDirectory

- Valid Path

SU01 Max. no. of wronglogins

Maximal number of wronglogins which locks furtherlogins.

3 Numeric

SU02 Time betweenwrong logins

Time after a wrong login, afterthe count of maximal wronglogins is reset.

0 Numeric

SU03 Automatic login A user who is used if nobodyis logged in.

- Username

SU04 Password strength Calculated value for safety ofpassword. “0” if passworddoesn’t match with rules.

0 0 … 255

SU05 Password-validity(month)

Number of month after apassword must be changes.

12 Numeric

SU06 Password history Number of passwords until anold password can be usedagain.

5 Numeric

SU07 Automatic logout(minutes)

Number of minutes with noaction after the user is loggedout.

30 Numeric

SU08 Keyboard alwaysON

Activation / de-activation of thetouch screen when PCE LineManager is operated using theexternal keyboard.Yes = Work with touch screenNo = Work with mouse andkeyboard

Checkbox

SE01 Company Prefix Used for SSCC values (Aggre-gation)

- Numeric

SE02-SE04

Rank 2 SSCCExtension Code …Rank 4 SSCCExtension Code

Prefix for SSCC_Values, thatthe rank defines

0/1/2 0 … 9

SR00 -SR08

Rank 0 Description… Rank8Description

Description of the Ranks(hierarchical level)

Global/Unit/Bundle/Case/Pallet

Alphanumeric

FP01 –FP08

SN Fix Part Rank 1… SN Fix Rank 8

Fixed part of the serial numberfor the relevant rank

- Alphanumeric

SL01 -SL08

SN var. length Rank1 … SN var. lengthRank 8

Length of the variable portionof the serial number

12 Numeric


ID Parameter Description Default Allowed ValuesSX01 SN Extra percentage Reserve volume of additional

(not used) serial numbers inpercent

0 Numeric

SA01 –SA08

SN Algo Rank 1 …SN Algo Rank 8

Algorithm for generating serialnumbers:INC: incremental generation ofserial numbers INCRND: Chancenumbers between zero and

INC INC /INCRND

ES01 ERP SN Ranges Takes over/does not take overthe serial number from ERP

Checkbox

PA01 PDF templates path Directory for filing the PDFreport templates. This can bedone centrally for severallines. If the field is empty, thestandard folder of the PCETnTdirectory will be used.

- Valid UNC path.

PA02 PDF path Directory for filing the PDFreports of the line. This can bedone centrally. If the field isempty, the standard folder ofthe PCETnT directory will beused.

- Valid UNC path.

PA03 Print screen path Path for screenshots of thePLM. Enter the directory path,e.g. D:\pictures. Triggering isdone via external keyboard bypressing the print key.

Checkbox

SI01 Second signature Switches on whether SecondSignature is active or not.

Checkbox

SI02 Second signaturegroup

When activated, only userswho join the “SI02 SecondSignature” group are allowedto confirm signatures.

Checkbox

SV01 Supervisor station Switches the software to thesupervisor mode.

Checkbox

EI01 Max error imagescount

Max. number of error imagesleft in memory.

10 Numeric

EX01 ERP over XML When activated data areimported from PSM.

XP01 ERP over XML path Path of XML documents in adata transfer

- Valid Path

XP02 ERP over XMLconfirmation path

Path of XML confirmation file - Valid Path

IP01 Default IP IP address, which defines byseveral network cards in theaddress area of the devices

- Valid Path

EM01 ERP XVIEW Mode Imports/does not import theorders from ERP

Checkbox

DP01 Parallel devicesstart up:

Activates/deactivates theparallel loading of the orderdata to the devices (accel-erated production start).

Checkbox


ID Parameter Description Default Allowed ValuesEF01 Allow Empty fields

in order tablesOnly for “French Coding”.Empty fields are not printedand not checked.

Checkbox

RF01 Reset readers ref.code

After finishing production,invalid reference codes aresent to all reading devices toprevent reading of codes afterproduction is finished.

Checkbox

WT01 Startup waiting time(sec)

If a database connection ismissing, a start delay can beset.

0 Numeric

US01 PLC not UPSsupplied

If there is a power failureduring production, an attemptto read the last counter by thePLC will fail. This will avoidblocking the PCE LineManager application.

Checkbox

PS01 Parallel devicesconnection

Activates/deactivates theparallel start of the deviceswhen starting up.

Checkbox

FR07 Filter Open Order Customized ERP order import Checkbox

DR01 Dynamic DeviceRanks

The device rank is variableand is defined in the lineformat.

Checkbox

KA01 Keep Agg. RankState

In case of production inter-ruptions, the input productranks will not be deleted, theywill be saved.

- 2…8, separated bycomma (e.g.2,3,5)

FR01 Set finished orderread-only

At the end of order the statuswill be set to “4” instead of“3” (usually it is set to “3”).Thus, it will not be possible tocommission and decom-mission manually.

Checkbox

LC01 Local Cache Mode Activates/deactivates bufferingof the order data in order to beable to continue productionwithout database connection.

Checkbox

LC02 Local CacheRework Mode

Download all serial numbersfrom the global database tothe local database for futureorder rework.

Checkbox

EA01 Allow empty aggre-gation

Allows aggregation of emptycases to pallet although acontent count is defined.

Checkbox

RA01 Reprint new serial When reprinting a damagedlabel, the new label gets anew serial number instead ofreusing the old serial number.

Checkbox

HC01 Helper code length Defines length of helper code 6 Numeric

DN01 Decommission notaggregated units onrank

Decommissions notaggregated unit on a rank

- Alphanumeric


ID Parameter Description Default Allowed ValuesDV01 Disable order date

checkAllows to disable the check oforder date values.• If off, expiration dates (GS1

AI17) must be in the future,production dates (GS1 AI11) in the past

• If on, all valid dates areallowed.

Checkbox

HI01 Order Unit History Allows to track every event thatchanges the state of a serialnumber during the production.Creates a gapless history ofthe complete production.

Checkbox

5.2.3.1 Taking Screenshots

To trigger a screenshot of the current screen, press the button at the external keyboard. Precon-dition:• Set a checkmark in the checkbox at the parameter PA03 in the system settings and enter the directory

path there and press Save to save the settings.

• Restart the PLM to apply the settings.

5.2.3.2 Local Cache Mode

Usually the PLM is connected to a central database and all data are written to database continuously. Ifdatabase connection is lost; PLM is not able to continue the production. The local cache mode allowscontinuing the production also if database connection is lost, by storing the order data to the local cache.To enable local caching:• Set a checkmark in the checkbox at the parameter LC01 in the system settings.• Restart the PLM to apply the settings.


5.2.4 Creating a DeviceBefore a device can be used in the system it has to be “created” in the PLM. This chapter describes how tocreate and edit devices. To create a device open the System Settings screen (see chapter[The SystemSettings Overview Screen } page 27]) and press Create/edit device. At the Device tablefor line screen you see which devices are already created in the PLM:

System Settings > Create edit device/add device

Sequence of Devices (Sort)At the column ‘Sort’ you can assign numbers to the devices. The sequence entered here will be adopted forthe device bars at the home screen and for the tabs at the Edit device settings screen.

At this screen you have the following options:

Remove: Inactivates the chosen device, use this for example if a device is not used in any format.Reconnect: Reconnection if a device is lost. Is only for PCE service staff and should otherwise not be used.Press Add to create additional devices. The 'Add new device' window appears. Please specify the followingfields as descrobed below: 'Device name', 'Class name' and 'Device Owner'.• 'Device name': Enter an individual name for the device. This will be the name for the device tab at the

line format. For clarity we recommend to name the devices as follows: (Station on which the device isused)_(Device). Examples:

- XMV_SMC- ABS_HRC• 'Class name': The class contains predefined device formats. At the device formats the fields to be printed

on a product are defined. At the line format the device formats and their fields are loaded.'Device Owner' (Virtual Device Owner): Device owner refers to a single master device that exists physicallybut is to fulfill several functions on various ranks (See example below). If a device does not support thevirtualization mode, the device owner field is disabled.

Example for Device Owner: A printer needs to be able to print different labels on 2 different ranks. It is first registered as a normal "Print-erMaster" device. This is the owner or master. This printer is then registered a second time as a virtual"PrinterSlave" device with the owner device: "PrinterMaster". The second printer is then assigned to anotherrank. Thus there are now two devices in the PCE Line Manager that can print out labels on a masterdevice.


Log LevelThe log level parameter of each device setting allows to control how many log data is produced and savedto plm.log. A per device setting allows debug logs only for a limited scope namely the specific device.Possible values are:• TRACE (all possible log data is logged. Use this log level only for a limited time)• DEBUG (less than TRACE is logged)• INFO (Default level, less than DEBUG is logged)• WARN (warnings and error messages are logged, less than INFO is logged)• ERROR (only error messages are logged)

Press reconnect after Login/log-offAfter login/log-off from devices, the button Reconnect on the tab “System” must be pressed.

5.2.5 Deleting a DeviceTo delete a device select it at the Device table for line (see chapter [Creating aDevice } page 34]) screen and press Remove.

If a device is still linked to a line it is not possible to delete it. The following error message appears: “Deviceis linked to a configuration”. Confirm the message by pressing Confirm and deactivate the device at theline or delete the line format.

5.2.6 PLC

System Settings > Edit device settings > (Select PLC tab)

At the PLC tab scroll down.With the buttons at the lower part of the screen you can call up the corresponding functions as described inthe following chapters. The table below gives an overview of these functions:

Name FuctionParameter Set, delete and edit PLC parameters

Messages Set, delete and edit PLC messages

Counter Configure PLC counter

Import/Export Import and export of parameters, messages and countersThe path of the exported files is \plm-core\distribution\PLC\

Teach PLC configuration (e.g. inform of the positions of the devices and the sensors)

The table below gives an overview of the possible PLC settings of the screen above:


Parameter Description Default value Allowedvalues

Name Freely selectable name - Alphanumeric

Description Optional description - Alphanumeric

PLCType Type of the used PLC S7_200_compatible

Drop-down list

automaticMode When automatic mode is active, manualoperation of the device is not possible.

checkmark set Checkbox

boxingRank Hierarchy level (1) Unit 0 ... 8

counterRefreshTime Refresh time [ms] for the PCE Line Managerto ask for new counter values from the PLC

1000 Numeric

heartBeatPLCTime Time [ms] for the PLC to check the connectionto the IPC

1000 Numeric

heartBeatPilotTime Time [ms] for the PCE Line Manager to checkthe connection to the PLC

1000 Numeric

internalFormats PLC to administer internal formats checkmark notset

Checkbox

ip IP address of the device - Valid IPaddress

logLevel Setting of how much data is logged (TRACE/DEBUG/INFO/WARN/ERROR)

INFO Drop-down list

needDeviceFormat Device appears on the line format. Printedstatus


readTimeOut Waiting [ms] time for an answer beforetimeout

1000 Numeric

shiftRegister Display of the shift register in the overview checkmark notset

Checkbox

shiftRegisterRefreshTime Update time [ms] of the shift register display 200 Numeric

statusBitWaitTime Time [s], end of production after a timeout ofthe PLC.

10 Numeric

watchDogTime Time [ms] to ask for errors 500 Numeric

writeCounters PLC counter readings are stored in thedatabase in case of discontinuation or stop ofthe production.

checkmark notset

Checkbox

ShowDeviceFrame Activates/deactivates display of the device inthe menu “overview”.


5.2.6.1 Import / Export (XML settings file)

Figure: System Settings > Edit device settings > (select PLC) > Import/Export


Press Import all settings. The screen looks as follows:

Figure: System Settings > Edit device settings > (select PLC) > Import/Export >(select file)

Select the XML file suitable for the PLC version and press Open.

5.2.6.2 Parameters

At the following screen you can edit the PLC parameters.

Setting parameter globallyIf you want to set a parameter globally for all line formats (settings are not editable at the line format) set acheckmark at its checkbox. Then the values have to be entered here at the system settings.

Setting parameter locallyIf you want to change the parameters locally at the line format (settings have to be set at the line format) setno checkmark at its checkbox. Then the values have to be entered at each line format.Setting a checkmark makes parameter global. Setting no checkmark makes the setting local.• Global: Checkmark set• Local at device: Checkmark not setThe screen looks as follows:

System Settings > Edit device settings > (select PLC) > Parameter

5.2.6.3 Teach

Press Teach in order to load the XML data to the PLC. Press Save to save the PLC settings.


5.2.6.4 PLC Siemens

Home > PLC

Class name: Siemens SPS IP / SPS PPIOnly the counters are displayed


5.2.7 PrintersIn this chapter the settings of the printers are described.

5.2.7.1 Printer Mode

The ‘printerMode’ configures printers and distinguishes aggregation from serialization/static printers.• 'AGGREGATE_PRINTER': These are only used on ranks > 1 and are supplied with labels individually.

Example: ABS Bundle Label Printer.

• 'BUFFERED_PRINTER': This is the standard setting for serialization or static printers on rank 1. On thissetting, the printer (if online) loads the internal buffer with labels at beginning of production. Example: DMS Wolke Printer

• 'HC_PRINTER': Prints helper codes.

• 'COPY_PRINTER': Prints data read by a reader (COPY_READER Mode) . Example: Temporally delayed reprint of a temporally aggregation label.

• 'DISTRIBUTION_PRINTER': Print buffer . Collects printing data from DISTRIBUTION_READER and prints ata defined time.

• 'LINEFORMAT': This changes the setting of the device settings to line format, in which ‘Aggregate Printer’and ‘Buffered Printer’ can then be selected.

5.2.7.2 Wolke

The Wolke Printer is editable under System Settings > Edit device settings >(select ). At the tab menu on the top you can switch between the screens.

System Settings > Edit device settings > (select )

Edit the settings at the input fields and scroll down menus. The table below gives an overview of thesefunctions:

Parameter Description Default value Allowed valuesName Name that has been assigned in the

device management settings.- Alphanumeric


PLCName Name of the printer for the PLC(Printer 1 … Printer 8)

- Drop-down list


Checkmark set Checkbox



buffer Number of buffered printers 18 Numeric

debugMode Output of errors/warnings/messages.Only for PCE purposes

Checkmark not set Checkbox

internalFormats Printer manages internal formats Checkmark set Checkbox

ip IP address of the device - Valid IP address

logLevel Setting of how much data is logged(TRACE/DEBUG/INFO/WARN/ERROR)

INFO Drop-down list

needDeviceFormat Determines whether the device is jointlyused in the line format.


port Port number Numeric

printerMode AGGREGATE_PRINTER:BUFFERED_PRINTER:

BUFFERED_PRINTER

Drop-down list

showDeviceFrame Activates/deactivates the display of thedevice in the menu “overview”.


5.2.7.3 Domino

The Domino Printer is editable under System Settings > Edit device settings >(select ). At the tab menu on the top you can switch between thescreens. The following two figures display the printer settings of the Domino Printer (initial screen andscrolled down). The settings can be configured.





Parameter Description Default value Allowed valuesName Name that has been assigned in the

device management settings.- Alphanumeric


APSSIMPath Path where the APS simulation softwarecan be found

- Valid Path

PLCName Name of the printer for the PLC - Drop-down list






IP IP address of the device - Valid IP address


INFO Drop-down list



port Port number 502 Numeric

Printer mode AGGREGATE_PRINTER:BUFFERED_PRINTER:LINEFORMAT:

BUFFERED_PRINTER

Drop-down list

printerUnit Number of printer heads 1 Numeric



5.2.7.4 Zebra

The Zebra Printer is editable under System Settings > Edit device settings > (select). At the tab menu on the top you can switch between thescreens.

System Settings > Edit device settings > ()


Parameter Description Default value Allowed valuesDescription Optional description - Alphanumeric








ip IP address of the device Valid IP address


INFO Drop-down list

labelPath Path on which the label inventory isstored for the printer.

- Valid Path





5.2.7.5 Integration of NiceLabel

OverviewNiceLabel is a label management software that offers centralized label design, storage including versioncontrol and approval workflow processes.NiceLabel Designer allows quickly creation of standard or custom label templates. With the additionalsoftware NiceLabel ControlCenter, you can also search, compare, report, share and analyse across theentire Electronic Label Catalogue.NiceLabel Automation Enterprise enables you to automate print tasks depending on special events. Theinterface between PLM and NiceLabel is a PLM module for NiceLabel. For each physical printer you want toprint NiceLabel layouts with, a NL Automation configuration is needed to control this printer with the NLAutomation Manager.

Precondition• The Enterprise editions of Automation and NL Control Center are installed.

The NiceLabel Pro editions are not sufficient. All references in this document relate to version NiceLabel2017.

• The NiceLabel Automation interface is configured.PLM is distributed with a reference configuration of NL Automation (zebra-bi.misx).

• A Zebra printer is used, controlled by the NiceLabel Windows driver.

ProcedureTo use a NiceLabel printer in PLM, proceed as follows:1. Create a new device.2. Enter a device name.

3. In the list Class name: select the entry 'NLA_basic'.4. Click OK.

5. Open the device settings.6. Select the newly created device.7. Define the settings.

See table below.

8. Click Save.9. Repeat steps 1 to 8 for every NL Automation configuration with a different printing task.

Each configuration has to be connected via its own NLA_basic device. Using the same printer acrossdifferent ranks is supported by using the same ‘port’ for printing.

10. Open the Production settings.11. Click Add/Editline format.12. Add a new line format.

13. Click Save.


14. Click Devices.15. Select the device with NiceLabel settings.16. Activate the device.

17. Click load formats.Depending on the folder defined in the label path in the device settings, the line formats found arelisted. See section [Working with Label Paths].

18. Select a line format from the list.

19. Click load fields.20. Select the information to be displayed in the label.

21. Click Save.22. Proceed with your normal production workflow.

Working with Label PathsIn the settings of the NiceLabel device you can define two options on how the NiceLabel interface isproviding the labels:• 'localLabelPath:'

When you enter a local path, the PLM module function load formats shows the labels in this folder. Youcan select one label to define a line format. The folder is accessed from both, the PLM module and theNL Automation configuration.

• 'webdavLabelPath:'You can configure the driver to copy labels from the NL Control Center folder into the local "labelPath"folder. The copy process is initiated when you click on load fields. You have to specify the 'webdavLa-belPath', the NL Control Center credentials 'CC_user' and 'CC_passwd'. A click on load formats willshow the versioned labels in the specified NL Control Center folder regardless if approved or not in theworkflow process. If the device option 'onlyApproved' is activated, only approved labels are shown anddownloaded.Labels are downloaded when a new order is started. In the labels folder a subfolder is created, which isassigned to this order. In this way it is assured, that after an order restart the same label versions areused. The subfolder is removed when the order is finished. For each download the label version islogged in the audit trail. Attention: The subfolder is not removed, when you reset the order. Delete thesubfolder manually.If the PLM module is in the 'webdavLabelPath:' mode, but the connection to NL Control Center fails, PLMwill check for local formats. Attention: Local formats may not contain the latest version.

NL Device SettingsWhen you create a device with the Class name: 'NLA_basic', in the device settings there are the followingparameters:

Parameter Description Default value Allowedvalues

Name Name that has been assigned inthe device management settings

- Alphanumeric


boxingRank Hierarchy level (0) Global Drop-down list

InternalFormats NL Automation manages internalformats


automaticMode When automatic mode is active,manual operation of the device isnot possible.


needDeviceFormat Device appears on the line format.Printed status


showDeviceFrame Currently not used. checkmark set Checkbox

logLevel Setting of how much data islogged (TRACE/DEBUG/INFO/WARN/ERROR)

INFO Drop-down list


buffer Only in BUFFERED_PRINTERmode: During production start thedriver is providing buffer datarecords.

1 Numeric


printerMode Configures the printer, see chapter"Printers > Printer Mode"

BUFFERED_PRINTER Drop-down list

ip IP address of NL Automationservice (typically locally runningon the IPC)

127.0.0.1 Valid IPaddress

port Port number for accessing thetrigger of the NL Automationservice for printing.

56423 Numeric

localLabelPath Local label path for storing labelsfiles on PLM

C:\Users\PCE Pilot\Documents\NiceLabel\Labels

Valid path

webdavLabelPath WebDav URL .If empty or startingwith #, no NL Control Centeraccess.

- Valid WebDAVURL or emptyor starting with#

CC_User NL Control Center user name credential

CC_passwd NL Control Center password Credential

msgOver Character string indicating the endof a message. Must not becontained in the contents data!

# CharacterString withmaximumlength 254

rspTimeout The NL Automation serviceconfirms any request. AfterrspTimeout ms the driverstates a connection error, if noconfirmation received.

50 Numeric

statusPattern Regular Expression to extractprinter and NL Automation statusinformation in the print confirmmessage.

status='(.*?)':(.*) Regularexpressionwith two ( )-groups orempty

printConfirm NL Automation variable name,used for the response address,where the NL Automation serviceis directing print confirmmessages.

printConfirmAddr Alphanumeric

printerMode Configures the printer, see chapter"Printers > Printer Mode"

BUFFERED_PRINTER Drop-down list

selfTriggerDelay[ms] Only in BUFFERED_PRINTERmode: If non-negative,selfTriggerDelay ms afterreceiving a print confirm messagethe driver sends new data to theNL Automation service. Otherwisethe driver has to be triggered fromextern.

-1 Numeric

labelInfoPort Port, the LabelInfo trigger islistening. Used to extract the printvariables from the labelfile.

56424 Numeric

onlyApproved Only approved labels are fetchedfrom NL Control Center.



Further informationFor further information on the NiceLabel software see additional documentation of the manufacturer:• "NiceLabel Automation Unleashed" by Aleš Primožič• NiceLabel Control Center Installation Guide• NiceLabel Control Center User Guide• NiceLabel Designer Pro User Guide


5.2.8 CamerasCameras of PCE are the Smart Camera (SMC) and the High Resolution Camera (HRC). These can fulfilldifferent functions depending on the corresponding settings.

5.2.8.1 Reader Modes

At this table the parameter 'readerMode' is described. This table is valid for hand scanners equally if themode is available.

Mode Function Explanation DevicePRINT_INSPECTION Reads and checks static or serialized

labels and its print quality if good or bad.Print inspection reader statistics are rankrelated.

The standardsetting for mostreaders.

SMC, VGL, handscanner (singleitem reader)

STATIC_INSPECTION

Reads and checks static (non serialized)labels and its print quality if good or bad.

Default setting forgeneric nonserialized reader onglobal rank (rank0).Static inspectionshould be used fornon-item relatedlabel inspection.Reader statisticdoes not influenceserialized labeldatabase status.

HRC, SMC, VGL,hand scanner(single and multipleitem reader

STATIC_INS_BUFFER

Static rank related inspection mode. Filldevice SN store

Used when readerread static data butprinter should printSGTIN or SSCC.

HRC, SMC, VGL,hand scanner(single and multipleitem reader

PRINT_COMPARE Previously printed units are furtherprocessed. Camera only reads thenumbers and sends it to the PLM. SNverification is done by PLM instead ofcamera.

Already producedproducts are put inagain without beingprinted before.

SMC, VGL, Scanner(single item reader)

AGGREGATE_READER

Reads several child unit labels one byone or at once and sends codes to PLM,verifies content size.

Standard setting forreaders with rank >1

HRC, SMC, VGL,hand scanner(single and multipleitem reader)

LINKING_READER Reads and checks serialized helpercodelabels and its print quality if good or bad.

Default setting forhelpercodescenario.


HC_INSPECTION Reads and checks serialized helpercodelabels and its print quality if good or bad.


HC_LINK_READER Reads and checks serialized helpercodelabels and its print quality if good or bad.Only in combination withSERIAL_LINK_READER.


HC_AGGREGATE_READER

Reads several child unit helpercodelabels one by one or at once and sendscodes to PLM, verifies content size.

HRC, SMC, VGL,hand scanner(single and multipleitem reader)


Mode Function Explanation DeviceSERIAL_LINK_READER