EPLAN NEWS for Version 2.0 SP 1

Transcription

1 EPLAN NEWS for Version 2.0 SP 1

2 Copyright 2010 EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG assumes no liability for either technical or printing errors, or for deficiencies in this technical information and cannot be held liable for damages that may result directly or indirectly from the delivery, performance, and use of this material. This document contains legally protected proprietary information that is subject to copyright. All rights are protected. This document or parts of this document may not be copied or reproduced by any other means without the prior consent of EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG. The software described in this document is subject to a licensing agreement. The use and reproducetion of the software is only permitted within the framework of this agreement. RITTAL is a registered trademark of Rittal GmbH & Co. KG. EPLAN, EPLAN Electric P8, EPLAN Fluid, EPLAN PPE, EPLAN Cabinet, EPLAN Pro Panel and EPLAN Mechatronic Integration are registered trademarks of EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG. Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, and Notepad are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation. PC WORX, CLIP PROJECT, and INTERBUS are registered trademarks of Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. AutoCAD and AutoCAD Inventor are registered trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. STEP 7, SIMATIC and SIMATIC HW Konfig. are registered trademarks of Siemens AG. InstallShield is a registered trademark of InstallShield, Inc. Adobe Reader and Adobe Acrobat are registered trademarks of Adobe Systems Inc. TwinCAT is a registered trademark of Beckhoff Automation GmbH. Unity Pro is a registered trademark of Schneider Electric. RSLogix 5000 and RSLogix Architect are registered trademarks of Rockwell Automation. All other product names and trade names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. EPLAN uses the Open Source software 7-Zip (7za.dll), Copyright by Igor Pavlov. The source code of 7-Zip is subject to the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL). The source code of 7-Zip and details on this license can be found on the following Web site: EPLAN uses the Open Source software Open CASCADE, Copyright by Open CASCADE S.A.S. The source code of Open CASCADE is subject to the Open CASCADE Technology Public License. The source code of Open CASCADE and details on this license can be found on the following Web site:

3 Table of Contents Table of Contents Preface... 7 Notes for the reader... 8 Distributed Representation of Terminals Use of distributed terminals Displaying the distributed terminals Distributed representation of potential terminals Generating reports of distributed terminals Inserting Distributed Terminals Inserting distributed terminals as symbols Optimizing distributed terminals Inserting distributed terminals as device Jumper Creation for Distributed Terminals Connecting associated distributed terminals automatically Jumper optimization for distributed terminals New Messages for Distributed Terminals New Monitor for Multi-user Mode Setting up the Multi-user Monitor Making the Settings for the Multi-user Monitor Using the Multi-user Monitor Possible steps Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Form Editor Conditional forms for other reports Adding up a property in one row Reports Outputting reports in another project Outputting the automatic page description in the set source / display language Project Data Navigators Standardized use of the [N] key Devices Inserting macros with multiple main functions as devices Online numbering when inserting devices Placing devices in location boxes EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 3

4 Table of Contents Project Editing System messages when projects are opened Graphical Editor Improved performance for page changes Changing to the line thickness on plot frames when printed PDF export of drawings Connections Check run message for predefined connection colors Parts Management Renamed field for EMI models File selection for external documents New Features and Corrections in the "EPLAN Multi Language Translation" Add-on Detection of multiple meanings when reports are updated New Features and Corrections in the "EPLAN Mounting Panel" Add-on Editing legend items for terminal strips Selecting macro variants when placing on the mounting panel Special Topics EPLAN Electric P New Features in the "EPLAN Net Based Wiring" Add-on Managing saddle jumper connection points and all net connections in the net definition point New settings for net-based connections Terminals / Plugs Automatic correction functionality for function definitions Terminals with plug-in adapters New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Add-on Realigning Mounting Surfaces EPLAN Reference System for 3D Macros New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension" Add-on New Features in the Master Data Master Data: Symbols Master Data: Identifiers Master Data: Macros EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

5 Table of Contents Other New Features and Information Customer Queries and Messages Validation Code Retrieving the validation code online Installation Directory structure after installation Software Requirements and Approvals General requirements Client operating systems Server operating systems EPLAN Mechatronic Integration Database systems for parts management / selection Microsoft Office Excel versions Internet browsers for the EPLAN Data Portal Unsupported operating systems EPLAN software no longer supported Other software that is no longer supported Hardware Requirements Workstation hardware requirements Recommended workstation configuration Minimum net requirements Minimum multi-user requirements EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 5

6 Table of Contents 6 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

7 Preface Preface Dear EPLAN users, With over 1,000 new features, EPLAN version 2.0 is already generating enthusiasm all around the globe. CAE innovations and new options for consistent engineering to save both time and money are particularly valued in periods of economic upturn by companies in every industry. This systematic and forward-looking further development of the EPLAN platform EPLAN 2.0 service pack 1 is based on your feedback and suggestions. Professional terminal engineering: New features for distributed terminal configuration bring even greater flexibility and clarity to project documentation. For example, innovative terminal technology can be configured quickly and easily with new automatic functions, optimizations and special checks. Sophisticated project documentation: The conditional forms were already greeted with enthusiasm in version 2.0. This new technology is now available for other types of report. Dynamic and detailed project reports at the push of a button speed up configuration and ensure consistent quality throughout the entire product development process. This News document highlights many additional features of the new version. We wish you every success with the new EPLAN platform 2.0 service pack 1. Your EPLAN Software & Service team EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 7

8 Preface Notes for the reader Important information: Before installing the new version please read the information in "Other New Features and Information" from page 53 onwards. In particular please read "Software Requirements and Approvals" on page 61. Before you begin reading, please note the following symbols and styles used in this document: Warning: Text preceded by this symbol contains a warning; you should be absolutely sure to read this warning before proceeding! Note: Text preceded by this image contains extra notes. Example: Examples are highlighted by this symbol. Tip: Useful tips to facilitate your interaction with the program are presented after this image. User interface elements are marked in bold (and blue) so they can immediately be located in the text. Italic text provides particularly important information that you should definitely pay attention to. Code examples, directory names, and direct input (among other elements) are displayed in a non-proportional font. Function keys, keyboard keys, and buttons within the program are shown in square brackets (e.g., [F1] for the "F1" function key). 8 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

9 Preface To improve the flow of the text, we often use "menu paths" in this document (for example, Help > Contents). In order to find a particular program function, the menus and options shown in a menu path must be selected in the sequence shown. For example, the menu path mentioned above calls up the EPLAN help system. In combination with settings or fields (e.g., check boxes) which can only be switched on or off, in this document we often use the term "activate" (after which the setting is active ) and "deactivate" (after which the setting is inactive ). EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 9

10 Distributed Representation of Terminals Distributed Representation of Terminals Use of distributed terminals The use of distributed terminals now allows the connection points of terminals to be shown in a distributed display in EPLAN Electric P8. This applies both to potential and also general terminals. Benefit: By using the new distributed terminals, you can now add the connection points of potential terminals, for example, directly where they are needed in the project. There is no complicated and time-consuming routing of potentials via interruption points. This makes the schematic clearer and easier to read, and greatly reduces the configuration work required. Current standards and directives require project documentation to be clear and easy to understand. These requirements can be effortlessly met by creating high-quality documentation based on new terminal master data and exciting automatic functions. The terminal targets of a distributed terminal are only analyzed at connection points that have a connection point designation. Which connection point is entered for which connection point designation is therefore important. Saddle jumper connection points and connection points for internal jumpers do not require a connection point designation. Distributed terminals belong to the same terminal function when you have the same function definition, the same identifying DT and the same terminal designation. 10 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

11 Distributed Representation of Terminals The distributed terminals for a terminal function all override the same function template. Displaying the distributed terminals In the navigators, distributed terminals are indicated by a special icon ( ). The Edit terminal strip dialog summarizes associated distributed terminals and displays them as one terminal. Distributed representation of potential terminals If you want to show potential terminal connection points that are connected to one another in a distributed manner, you can use distributed terminals. A potential terminal is depicted here using distributed terminals in succession with the same terminal designation and different connection point designations. Generating reports of distributed terminals In the reports, distributed terminals from the same terminal function are summarized and the properties of the summarized terminal are output. You will find examples and more information about the distributed terminals in the EPLAN online help. Read the "Distributed representation of terminals" section, for example. We discuss these topics in more detail in the following sections: "Inserting Distributed Terminals" on page 12 "Jumper Creation for Distributed Terminals" on page 18 "New Messages for Distributed Terminals" on page 20. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 11

12 Distributed Representation of Terminals Inserting Distributed Terminals You can add distributed terminals as symbols using a special menu item or by inserting devices into the project. Inserting distributed terminals as symbols The Insert menu contains a new Distributed terminal menu item for inserting a distributed terminal into the schematic. Alternatively you can click the (Distributed terminal) button on the Connections toolbar. Place the distributed terminal on the page. Enter the device data for the terminal on the Terminal tab in the Properties <...> dialog. At least the DT must be entered; the connection point designation and description can be assigned automatically even retrospectively by optimizing the distributed terminals. Tip: You can modify the symbol during entry with the [Back] button. When you insert a distributed terminal, the new Distributed terminal check box is automatically activated on the Terminal tab. This means that the connection points for a terminal function are displayed in a distributed manner. A distributed terminal can represent one or more connection points on the terminal. The Connections tab is not displayed for distributed terminals. 12 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

13 Distributed Representation of Terminals Note: In the Display tab of the property dialog the connection point designations of terminals are listed by default in the property arrangement. This takes place in the Connection points tab via the indexed property Symbol: Connection point designation (ID 20028). So that the connection point designations of the distributed terminals are visible in the schematic and can be printed, you have to activate the check boxes Visible and Print in the layer management for the layer EPLAN430, Property placement.terminal connection point designations. Defining a function definition A terminal symbol with the function definition "Terminal with saddle jumper, 4 connection points" is used by default when you insert distributed terminals as symbols. The new Function definition project setting also allows you to define another function definition for inserting the distributed terminals, however. You will find the setting in the new Settings: Distributed terminals dialog. In this dialog, you can specify the default settings for working with distributed terminals. One possible menu path to this dialog is: Project data > Terminal strips > Settings (distributed terminals). EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 13

14 Distributed Representation of Terminals New symbols for distributed terminals We have provided five new terminal symbols for inserting distributed terminals (XT4OL_2, XT4_2, XT3_2, XT2_2, XT1_2; see also page 48 in the "Master Data: Symbols" section). These symbols all have either no connection line or just one, which keeps the schematic clear and comprehensible. By default, the XT4OL_2 symbol with four connection points and with no connection line is used for a distributed terminal. In contrast to other terminal symbols with four connection points, connection point designations are placed in all four directions with this symbol. Optimizing distributed terminals When you are working with distributed terminals, you have the option of initially inserting distributed terminals into the schematic without a terminal and connection point designation, which means that you also do not have to worry about the terminal devices. This can also be done retrospectively using the Optimize distributed terminals automatic function. This optimization function combines distributed terminals that are connected to one another and sorts them by jumper. To optimize the distributed terminals, first select the desired distributed terminals (in the graphical editor, terminal navigator or the relevant page in the page navigator). Then select Project data > Terminal strips > Optimize distributed terminals. In the Optimize distributed terminals dialog that opens, define the settings for optimizing the distributed terminals. 14 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

15 Distributed Representation of Terminals The optimization consists of the following steps: Distributed terminals that are connected to one another and have the same DT, function definition and terminal designation are combined to form complete terminal functions. The Main terminal check box is activated automatically for the first distributed terminal of a terminal function (as per the display in the terminal strip navigator). The parts that are entered in the Part number group box are assigned to the distributed terminals. If function templates for terminals have been entered for a part, the data of the first function template is assigned to the terminals to be optimized. The terminal designations are reassigned as per the settings for the online numbering. (If the Keep existing terminal designations check box is activated, existing terminal designations for distributed terminals are retained.) EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 15

16 Distributed Representation of Terminals A connection point designation is automatically assigned for each connection point to which at least one wire (i.e. any function, jumper etc., apart from saddle and internal jumpers) is connected. Connection point designations of unassigned connection points or connection points connected to only one saddle jumper or one internal jumper are deleted. (If the Keep existing connection point designations check box is activated, existing connection point designations for distributed terminals are retained.) Terminals that are connected with one another are resorted such that they are next to one another, sorted by jumper. (The Allow combining of terminals that are connected to one another check box must be activated.) If the current selection of distributed terminals is extended, then other entries will appear in the Extent drop-down list. Inserting distributed terminals as device A terminal can also be entered by inserting devices as distributed terminals in the project. They are numbered automatically. The Placing from number of connection points project setting, which is also new, allows you to define the number of connection points (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, never) after which a terminal is divided into distributed terminals when you insert devices. Connection points with the "saddle jumper" connection point type are not counted here. To allow distributed terminals to be inserted as a device, you must have defined the relevant terminal devices in parts management. The function templates must also contain connection point designations. 16 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

17 Distributed Representation of Terminals Then select Insert > Device. In the Part selection dialog, scroll through the tree structure and select the desired terminal. If the selected terminal has at least the same number of connection points as stated in the Placing from number of connection points project setting, the symbol for the first distributed terminal hangs on the cursor and the first connection point designation for the terminal is displayed. Place the distributed terminal on the page. The first distributed terminal automatically becomes the main terminal. The other distributed terminals are hung on to the cursor in succession with their connection point designations and the associated connection point descriptions. Empty connection point designations are skipped and cannot be inserted. Then place the other distributed terminals. If all the connection point designations from the function template have been placed, the next function is offered for placing. Tips: Use symbols for which the connection points used for the internal connections are not drawn. In this way the schematic stays clearer and the risk of entering connection point designations on the wrong connection points is reduced. When inserting distributed terminals as a device a separate distributed terminal is placed for each connection point designation. If you want to show several connection points of a terminal with a component, you must then enter the other connection point designations manually on the relevant distributed terminal. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 17

18 Distributed Representation of Terminals Jumper Creation for Distributed Terminals The relevant internal jumpers, saddle jumpers or wire jumpers are generated from all the connections that run between the distributed terminals on a terminal strip when you update the connections. Internal jumpers are generated between associated distributed terminals (same function definition, same DT, same terminal designation); saddle or wire jumpers are generated between distributed terminals that are not associated. Connecting associated distributed terminals automatically When you insert distributed terminals, you can set up EPLAN so that the distributed terminals of a terminal function that belong together are connected automatically even if there are no drawn connections between them. The Settings: Distributed terminals dialog contains the Connect associated distributed terminals automatically check box for this purpose. If this check box is activated, internal jumpers are generated between associated distributed terminals when the connections are updated. These automatically generated internal jumpers are each created on the last connection point of the terminal function. The order of the distributed terminals in the terminal strip navigator is key to generating the internal jumpers. If this check box is deselected, then associated distributed terminals are not automatically connected. In check run , distributed terminals are reported that were detected as associated but are not connected. 18 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

19 Distributed Representation of Terminals Jumper optimization for distributed terminals If you use distributed terminals in the configuration, then jumper optimization is carried out by default when the connections are updated. During the jumper optimization and regardless of any drawn connections it is ideally saddle jumpers, rather than wire jumpers, that are generated between the terminals. The internal jumpers are also re-generated. If jumper optimization is not required, you can deactivate the Jumper optimization check box in the Settings: Distributed terminals dialog. In this case, the graphically drawn connections are used to create jumpers. The relevant internal jumpers, saddle jumpers or wire jumpers are generated from all of the connections that run between distributed terminals when updating the connections. In this case you yourself must ensure that the required connections are drawn on the schematic. Notes: Net based connections cannot be used together with distributed terminal jumper optimization. The two functionalities generate different connections that are incompatible with one another. If there is an autoconnect line between two distributed terminals for which an internal jumper was generated, then this connection is on the "EPLAN510" layer for internal connections. You can show or hide these connections in the graphical editor by setting the Visible check box in layer management accordingly. In the Connections navigator, the internal connections generated between the distributed terminals are identified by the "Internal jumper" function definition. The "Jumper (automatic)" connection type is displayed for automatically-generated jumpers (saddle jumpers, internal jumpers). Automatically-generated jumpers typically occur when jumpers are created between distributed terminals. You may have to first configure the columns so that the two columns Type of connection and Function definition are displayed in the navigator. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 19

20 Distributed Representation of Terminals New Messages for Distributed Terminals The settings for messages and error checking contain several new messages for checking projects in which you have used the distributed display of terminals. The following messages have been added to the "Terminals" message class: Message "Connection point designation at a jumper connection" Message "Unconnected distributed terminals with same designation" Message "Individual distributed terminal" Message "Distributed terminals have different function definitions" Message "A connection definition point lies on a connection between distributed terminals" Message "Used distributed terminal connection point without connection point designation" Message "The distributed terminal could not be included in optimization. %1!s!". 20 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

21 New Monitor for Multi-user Mode New Monitor for Multi-user Mode Note: The "EPLAN Multiuser Monitor" add-on is available as an option for all module packages for program variants EPLAN Electric P8, EPLAN Fluid, EPLAN PPE, EPLAN Education for Classrooms, EPLAN Trial and EPLAN View. The new version introduces a new monitor for multi-user mode. This new add-on will help you to see which other users are active on which project. You will see at a glance the actions of other users in the project, thus allowing you to efficiently coordinate the project work. Benefit: Who has already made a start on which project? Are there comprehensive reports or checks already running in the current project? It is important to have a quick and simple overview of the actions of individual people, particularly when working on projects with multiple users. Structured and efficient configuration shortens project implementation times, and this is perfectly supported by the multi-user monitor. When combined with well thought-out organization of the configuration work, the new multi-user monitor will be the central source of information for transparency in your current projects. The following sections discuss how to set up and use the multi-user monitor: "Setting up the Multi-user Monitor" on page 22 "Making the Settings for the Multi-user Monitor" on page 23 "Using the Multi-user Monitor" on page 24. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 21

22 New Monitor for Multi-user Mode Setting up the Multi-user Monitor The monitor for multi-user operation was implemented as a client-server solution. The server application is installed on the required computer by the EPLAN installation wizard. This may also be a "normal" EPLAN workstation. The server application is then available as a service in the servercomputer's Control Panel. This EPLAN Multiuser Monitor service starts automatically. It can be uninstalled as usual in the Add or Remove Programs dialog in Control Panel. For the other EPLAN workstations to be able to log onto this "monitor server" when the program is started, a further setting has to be made in EPLAN on the relevant client computers (see the following section on page 23). When the service and the client-server connection have been set up, the monitor server receives the information about actions that have been carried out, collates it, and redistributes it to the EPLAN workstations. Notes: The server application "EPLAN Multiuser Monitor" must be installed from a user account with administrator rights. You will need the relevant authorizations to start, exit and restart services. We recommend that a system administrator sets up the multi-user monitor and makes the necessary settings on the EPLAN workstations. You will find the other settings and requirements for multi-user mode in the "Multi-user operation" section of the EPLAN online help. 22 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

23 New Monitor for Multi-user Mode Making the Settings for the Multi-user Monitor You will first have to make a few settings before you can display the multi-user mode data on the multi-user monitor at an EPLAN workstation. The menu path is as follows: Options > Settings > User > Management > Multi-user monitor. In this dialog, specify the computer on which the monitor server service has been set up. Enter the relevant details in the Server name and Port boxes. Check the Active check box to establish the connection with the server. Click the [Check] button to check the settings: If there is a connection to the server computer, a suitable message is sent to the Status field. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 23

24 New Monitor for Multi-user Mode Using the Multi-user Monitor To open the multi-user monitor, select Project > Multi-user monitor. The Multi-user monitor dialog is in table format, similar to other familiar dialogs such as message management. As in that dialog, the multi-user monitor can be docked and undocked on EPLAN's main window and saved with a workspace. This dialog has two tables listing the projects that are relevant for multiuser operation. If you have not opened a project in multi-user mode, do not have access to the project directory for multi-user mode or are not connected to the monitor server, then one or both tables are empty. Own opened projects in multi-user operation: The table on the left provides detailed information about the multi-user operation. It shows the projects that you and other users have open at the same time. The following data is listed for these projects: Project User Product version Project action Progress. 24 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

25 New Monitor for Multi-user Mode If a user has started an action with a corresponding run-time for a project that you also have open (checks, reports, etc), this will be indicated by a progress bar in the Progress column. If, in the User column, you click the User code set up as a hyperlink, the application on your computer opens and you can this user. If you click the icon to the left of a project name, other information about a user appears in both tables (name, phone, computer). For this to happen, the users working in multi-user mode must have saved their user data in the settings (Options > Settings > User > Display > User code / address). Note: Projects that only you have open do not appear in the multi-user monitor. Other open projects: The table on the right of the dialog lists all the projects that have only been opened by other users. The following data is listed for these projects: Project User. If more than one other user has a project open, the Users column displays more than one User code for the relevant project. If you wish to a user in this table, you first need to drop down the row of information below. Here, click the user name that has been set up as a hyperlink. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 25

26 New Monitor for Multi-user Mode Possible steps Get information from the multi-user monitor before the action In multi-user mode, you want to start a lengthy action for an open project (e.g. a project-wide check or report, etc.). To do this, first use the monitor to find out whether another user has also initiated such an action for the current project. If this is not the case, start the required action. If a lengthy action is being carried out for the current project, you have the following options: You accept that execution will be lengthy and start your action nonetheless. You can postpone your action to later. You can contact the other user to discuss things. To do this you can, e.g., click the other user's user ID in the User column and send an . Get information from the multi-user monitor during the action You start an action. Because the action is taking longer than usual to execute, you open the multi-user monitor. Here you find out whether the delay is being caused by actions running in parallel in multi-user mode. If it is, you have the following options: You accept that execution will be lengthy and wait until your action is finished. You stop your action by clicking [Cancel]. You can then as stated previously contact the other user to discuss things. 26 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

27 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Form Editor Conditional forms for other reports Since the launch of EPLAN version 2.0, you have been able to use the conditional forms to define one or more "subforms" for a dynamic form. The output of a subform is associated with certain conditions. This produces a so-called "main form" and the "conditional forms" assigned to it. In the past, conditional forms were only evaluated by the "Device tag list" report type. In the new EPLAN version, the conditional forms are now supported by the following function-specific reports: Cable diagram Terminal diagram Terminal line-up diagram Enclosure legend PLC diagram Plug diagram. Benefit: This new functionality provides extensive options for optimizing your project reports. Flexible and dynamic reports produced at the push of a button increase the information content and quality of your documentation without increasing the amount of configuration required. Forms and reports that are created while processing the master data can be used flexibly and thus save valuable configuration time. We will be pleased to help you to initially create your conditional forms and the associated reporting concepts with a range of services specially tailored for this purpose. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 27

28 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform The conditional forms and associated conditions are defined in the form editor using the Conditional forms dialog (menu path: Insert > Conditional forms). We have already described how to use this dialog and how to create reports with the conditional forms in the "Graphical device tag list" section of News 2.0. You will find more information on the conditional forms in the EPLAN online help. Adding up a property in one row The EPLAN reports now allow you to add up the values of an output property in one row. The Add up property in one row check box has been added to the Placement tab of the Properties dialog for placeholder texts for this purpose. Benefit: This new way of calculating in forms, when combined with the Value / unit display settings, allows you to create sophisticated project reports at the push of a button. Adding together the relevant project data in this way will help you with dimensioning and setting out components and plant parts. No manual calculations are required and, once defined, forms can be transferred quickly and easily to all projects. If multiple values are output in a row in a report for a property, then the different values are listed separated by separators by default. This means, for example, that the following will be output on a row of a parts list for the length of a connection that was identified in the schematic using otherwise identical connection definition points: 2;4;6. If you wish to add the values for this property, then you must open the relevant form in the form editor and adapt the placeholder text by activating the Add up property in one row check box. For the example shown above, the result would be the following total: EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

29 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Reports Outputting reports in another project In the past, reports were output in another project by specifying a target project, known as the output project. While it was being output, the schematic project was blocked for other users, and it was not possible to update the reports in the output project. This service pack introduces a new approach to the problem of inserting reports from other projects in which the source projects are added to the report templates. Benefit: Since the data is simply read from a source when it is reported in another project, it is no longer necessary to block the schematic project for other users. This gives significant flexibility, particularly in multi-user mode. The option of a provisional report offers additional potential for optimizing the workflow. The reporting of data from another schematic project (known as a "source project") takes place in a project that is currently open, known as the "report project". You specify the source project from which the data originates in the templates for the report project. For any subsequent reports, the source project is opened for reading in the background for the duration of the report, the data is read and the reports are generated in the report project. This allows another user to continue working in the source project, thus preventing the occurrence of multi-user conflicts. Notes: When you generate reports, the master data (forms, symbol libraries, etc.) and settings for the currently open project, i.e. the report project, are always used in EPLAN. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 29

30 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform The connections are updated automatically before a connection list is generated in a "normal" project. When the connection list is output in the report project, the connections are not updated automatically! If a current connection list in a source project is to be output in a report project, the connections must first be updated in the relevant source project. Source project in the reports There are several ways to enter a source project in the report templates. In the Reports dialog, create new templates by clicking the [New] button on the Templates tab. In the Select report dialog that opens there is a new Source project field for entering the data source. Click [...] to open a selection dialog for selecting the required source project. For an existing template, the Templates tab now contains a new Source project property. To enter a source project here, click in the relevant field in the Value column and then click [...] to switch to a project selection dialog. Tip: If you want to enter the source project for all or multiple templates at the same time, first fully expand the tree on the Templates tab. Then hold down the [Ctrl] key while you click the relevant template name (e.g. 0001). Once you have selected the required templates, click [...] to select the source project. The project names are now displayed at the top level of the reports and templates tree structure in the Reports dialog. If a source project has been entered for a template, the template is listed under this project's name. The name of the current project is always at the top. 30 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

31 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Source project in the page properties The page properties now contain a new property Report: Source project <11067> so that you can see for a generated report page from which project the data for the report originates. The name of the source project is entered automatically when the report is generated. Update reports The reports in the report project are updated via Utilities > Reports > Update, for example, as usual. Provisional report projects for daily use One possible use is the creation of provisional report projects for daily use. This method reports on a provisional status of a schematic project. First enter the actual project as a source project in the report templates for your schematic project. This will not interfere with the project report. When you subsequently create a report project by copying, the source will already be set correctly. Then create the report project as a copy of the schematic project. To copy the project, select the Only header data option. This will create a project without pages or report, but to which the project settings and report templates for the schematic project have already been copied. The correct source project is already entered in the templates. You can then generate the reports. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 31

32 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Since the provisional reporting takes place in the report project, the schematic project is not blocked to prevent further editing. The current version and the official reports continue to remain in the schematic project. Other methods Other methods are also possible. For example, the report project may also be the source project. In this way, it is possible to display the table of contents for the report project in the schematic project, for example. To do this, create a report template for the table of contents in the schematic project and enter the report project as the source for it. Jump to another project using "Go to (graphic)" The Go to (graphic) jump function has been extended for the placeholder texts on the report pages. This pop-up menu item now allows you to jump to the graphical editor if the data originates from another project. Benefit: The Go to (graphic) jump function allows you to jump from the reports of a report project to the schematic of the schematic project. The ability to jump between projects ensures that all the user-friendly functions for navigating in the project data are available for the type of report. For example, all the project information is always centrally accessible, regardless of the type and manner of the report. If the schematic project (the source project) is not yet open, you will see a message with the option to open the project. Confirm this message with [Yes]; the schematic project is then opened automatically and you jump to the cross-reference object. If you select [No], the schematic project remains closed and the action is cancelled. 32 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

33 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Outputting the automatic page description in the set source / display language The automatic page description for report pages is now always output in the set source / display language when you update or generate reports. This is done even if the dialog language is different from the source and display language. Project Data Navigators Standardized use of the [N] key When you insert devices (using function templates), you have the option of using the [N] key to browse through the functions and select the one you want. It does not matter whether you use the Insert > Device menu items or simply drag the device from a navigator onto an open page in the graphical editor. For Place and Assign from a navigator you can now use the [N] key consistently to browse through the functions. The [Shift] + [Tab] shortcut that was used to browse through the functions before version 2.0 is now used to browse through the display modes when you insert or place macros. Devices Inserting macros with multiple main functions as devices If you insert a device for which there is a macro with multiple main functions in parts management, then in the past the part was transferred to the first main function in the graphic. This behavior has changed in the new version. In such a case, the part will now be assigned to the first suitable main function. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 33

34 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform This means that the part is assigned to the first main function in the macro that it can overlay correctly. The other main functions are not changed. If no matching main function is found, EPLAN first searches for a black box. If this does not exist, then the part is transferred to the first graphical main function. See the "Procedure for inserting devices" section of the EPLAN online help for more information about inserting devices with macros. Online numbering when inserting devices When you insert devices in the graphical editor (using the Insert > Device menu item, for example), the set numbering format for online numbering is followed once more. Placing devices in location boxes If devices are placed in a location box when they are inserted, then the structure identifiers (e.g. higher-level function, mounting location, etc.) for the location box are now taken into account once more. Project Editing System messages when projects are opened When you open or apply projects in EPLAN version 2.0, it is possible under certain circumstances to search for a specific project setting and for the two system messages S and S to be displayed as a result. The two system messages are no longer output for this application. 34 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

35 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Graphical Editor Improved performance for page changes When you browse through the pages of a project in the graphical editor, you will notice that the pages change faster due to the accelerated connection updating. Changing to the line thickness on plot frames when printed In version 2.0, the line thickness of the lines stored in a plot frame was affected by the scale set in the relevant page properties when they were printed. This has been corrected in this service pack. The line thickness on plot frames now no longer changes when printed if a different page scale is set. PDF export of drawings Problems occurred under certain marginal conditions during the PDF export of drawings that were placed on project pages. These drawings are now displayed correctly in the PDF after exporting. Connections Check run message for predefined connection colors In the Settings: Connection colors dialog (Options > Settings > Projects > "Project name" > Connections > Connection colors menu item), you can predefine project-specific color codes and color names for connections. The entries in this table from row 21 onwards are now also taken into account by EPLAN. As a result, the check run message is no longer output when a given connection color was selected as the Color / number property in the Properties dialog for a connection / connection definition point. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 35

36 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Parts Management Renamed field for EMI models In parts management on the Mounting data tab there is a special field that can be used to store an EMI model for one or more parts. This operation is the reason why data can be transferred from EPLAN Mechatronic Integration (EMI) to AutoCAD Inventor. This field has now been renamed to differentiate it more clearly from other fields. Old name: 3D macro New name: EMI model File selection for external documents In parts management you can store up to 20 external documents for a part on the Documents tab. Once you have entered a document, click in the File / hyperlink column; the correct folder is opened in the file selection dialog that opens and the document is entered in the Files of type field by default. This may be of relevance to you if subfolders were created in the Documents directory after parts were imported from the EPLAN Data Portal. New Features and Corrections in the "EPLAN Multi Language Translation" Add-on Note: The "EPLAN Multi Language Translation" add-on is available as an option for EPLAN Electric P8 Select. This add-on is part of the standard scope of delivery for EPLAN Electric P8 Professional, EPLAN Fluid, and EPLAN PPE. We have also made a number of corrections to this version in the Translation utility in the "EPLAN Multi Language Translation" add-on. 36 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

37 Other New Features and Fixes for the Overall EPLAN Platform Detection of multiple meanings when reports are updated In projects in which the project-specific translation setting Manual selection for terms with multiple meanings is active, it was possible for the Found words dialog to be opened when reports were updated, even though the terms were unique. This problem has now been fixed. New Features and Corrections in the "EPLAN Mounting Panel" Add-on Note: The "EPLAN Mounting Panel" add-on is available as an option for EPLAN Electric P8 Compact and EPLAN Fluid Compact. This add-on is part of the standard scope of delivery for EPLAN Electric P8 Select, EPLAN Electric P8 Professional, and for EPLAN Fluid. The "EPLAN Mounting Panel" add-on is used to configure enclosures and mounting panels. Editing legend items for terminal strips Since version 2.0 it has been possible to place a terminal strip for which no parts have yet been placed entirely on a mounting panel. The terminal strip is displayed graphically on the mounting panel as a "block" and is given a legend item. The legend item of such a complete terminal strip is now listed in the Edit legend item dialog. Selecting macro variants when placing on the mounting panel When parts from the 2D panel layout navigator are placed on the mounting panel, it is now once again possible to use [Tab] to browse through the available macro variants for macros stored at the parts. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 37

38 Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 New Features in the "EPLAN Net Based Wiring" Add-on Note: The "EPLAN Net Based Wiring" add-on is available for EPLAN Electric P8 Professional as an optional extra. This add-on allows you to define nets with net-based connections. Unlike a "normal" net with automatic connections, the connection sequence within the net here is not determined via the connection symbols in the schematic; it must be specified later in the properties dialog of the associated net definition point. Benefit: You can generate the schematic without taking into account the precise wiring. When the spatial arrangement of the components and their optimal wiring is clarified, this information can be added as required. Connections can easily be represented in the schematic even in the case of complex wiring sequences. The plans become more legible, particularly with potentials over more than one page which are distributed throughout the entire project. Managing saddle jumper connection points and all net connections in the net definition point To date, saddle jumper connection points of terminals using a net definition point have not been taken into account in the net definition. With the new version, you can configure EPLAN so that it now also displays saddle jumper connection points on the Net connection tab. 38 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

39 Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 Furthermore, it is now also possible to define all the connections within a net using a net definition point. In the case of the directly linked functions in a net, the connections have up till now been generated automatically. These may, for instance, be two terminals that are connected to one another directly without a T-node and have the Net-connecting property activated. You can now use the new setting Manage all the net connections in the net definition point to specify that for such functions the connections must be defined manually using the net definition. Benefit: If both settings are selected (Manage saddle jumper connection points in the net definition point and Manage all the net connections in the net definition point), all of the net connections can be controlled via the net definition point. This enables the wiring to be optimized across saddle jumpers and subnets. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 39

40 Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 New settings for net-based connections For the reasons stated above, the project settings for the connections have had two check boxes added: Manage net connections in the net definition point and Manage saddle jumper connection points in the net definition point. To access this setting, go to Options > Settings > Projects > "Project name" > Connections > General. Manage saddle jumper connection points in the net definition point: If this check box is selected, the Net connections tab in a net definition point's properties dialog also displays symbol connection points with the connection point type "saddle jumper". However, additional function connection points for saddle jumpers are not displayed. If the check box is deselected, saddle jumpers are not displayed in the Net connections tab. This is the default setting. Note: Net based connections cannot be used together with distributed terminal jumper optimization. The two functionalities generate different connections that are incompatible with one another. Manage all the net connections in the net definition point: If this check box is checked, the targets are not automatically specified for net-connecting functions that are directly connected to one another (i.e. the Net-connecting property is activated for the function). In this case the connections are not automatically generated and have to be specified manually. If the check box is deselected, the targets are automatically specified for net-connecting functions that are directly connected to one another, and connections are generated automatically. This is the default setting. These connections are displayed in the Other connections dialog, but cannot be deleted or changed. 40 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

41 Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 Note: If there is a connection symbol with target specification between the netconnecting functions (e.g. a T-node), the connections are specified automatically in all cases. Terminals / Plugs Automatic correction functionality for function definitions The new EPLAN version 2.0 provides many new function definitions for terminals. Benefit: The new standardized function definitions for terminals facilitates the intuitive handling of terminals in the planning phase and the preparation of high-quality master data. Once terminal parts have been defined in EPLAN parts management, they can be copied into a project quickly and easily using drag & drop. This reduces the designer's workload and ensures highquality machine and plant documentation. All the new features in the "Terminals" area will help you implement and document new terminal technologies in your future EPLAN projects. If projects created before version 2.0 are used with the latest version, the terminals may have "old" and "new" function definitions existing in parallel. To avoid having to update terminal function definitions manually, we have included an automatic correction facility. You can use the "Update Terminal FuncDef" add-on to automatically transfer all the "old" function definitions from the projects and parts management to the "new" function definitions. The add-on resides on your data carrier and can also be downloaded from the EPLAN support area on the Internet. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 41

42 Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 Terminals with plug-in adapters To characterize inserted terminals even more precisely, the new property Terminal with plug-in adapter <20283> is available in the Settings category. Activating the check box for this property means you are indicating that the terminal has a plug-in adapter. Like other properties (such as Terminal category), the Terminal with plug-in adapter property is available in the terminal reports and can be used there with the form property Assignment: Property / value to graphic [1-10] to output terminal graphics. To also enable the new property to be used as a selection criterion when selecting devices, it has been added for terminals in the parts management function templates. 42 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

43 New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Add-on New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Add-on The "EPLAN Pro Panel" add-on is used for placing electrical engineering and fluid power devices from the EPLAN project, from the EPLAN parts management, or from the EPLAN Data Portal, as required. In conjunction with mechanical components such as cable ducts, mounting rails, mounting panels, or entire enclosures, "EPLAN Pro Panel" simplifies the construction of complex 3D mounting layouts dramatically. Note: The "EPLAN Pro Panel" add-on is available as an option for EPLAN Electric P8 Compact, EPLAN Electric P8 Select, EPLAN Electric P8 Professional, EPLAN Fluid Compact and EPLAN Fluid. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 43

44 New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Add-on Realigning Mounting Surfaces Individual surfaces of an item that has been imported as a "3D graphic" can be defined as mounting surfaces. This is done in EPLAN Pro Panel via the menu items Edit > Device logic > Mounting surface. The reference point of these surfaces is usually in the bottom left. When surfaces are not perpendicular, the mounting surface also has to form a surrounding rectangle with a reference point in the bottom left. If because the item has special shapes the automatic alignment of the mounting surface is unsuitable for your purposes, you now have the ability to realign the mounting surface. For this purpose the layout space navigator popup menu has the two new menu items Mounting surface > Adjust X-axis and Mounting surface > Adjust Y-axis. Once you have selected one of the menu items, the prompt "Starting point for direction" appears in the status bar. When the cursor is moved over the mounting surface, geometric points appear. Click to select a point. Next the prompt "End point for direction" appears in the status bar. Now select the second point. The X-axis or the Y-axis of the mounting surface is aligned by the direction of the connection from start and end point. The reference point of the mounting surface is moved in such a way that it lies on the bottom left point of the mounting surface. The mounting surface is then activated so that the change becomes visible. If the selected points are not on the current mounting surface, the two points are projected onto the mounting surface and then the X- or Y-axis is aligned. 44 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

45 New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Add-on Example: The illustration below shows an example of mounting surface alignment on an item whose surfaces are not at right angles to each other. Once the X-axis has been aligned with two mouse clicks on points 1 and 2, the mounting surface will have a correct origin. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 45

46 New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Add-on EPLAN Reference System for 3D Macros The latest version of EPLAN Pro Panel now also supports the EPLAN reference system for 3D data. This is a base technology of the EPLAN platform that serves, for instance, to manage the macro data of components that are used more than once in the project in a way that takes up less storage. Benefit: The EPLAN reference system enables a 3D macro to be used in more than one place without all the 3D macro data having to be duplicated. The amount of storage space required for 3D components used more than once is correspondingly less. Note: In this way, large terminal strips can be managed with a considerably smaller storage requirement. As a result, projects containing 3D macros need significantly less memory at run time. The compact data storage also enables 3D macros to be added and placed even more quickly. The EPLAN reference system is supported for all new 3D macros that are created using the latest EPLAN Pro Panel Version 2.0 SP 1, based on imported 3D data in STEP format. 46 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

47 New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension" Add-on New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension" Add-on Note: The "EPLAN API Extension" add-on is available as an option for EPLAN Electric P8 Professional, for EPLAN Fluid, and for EPLAN PPE. A unified, and especially high-performance, programming interface (API, Application Programming Interface) is available for EPLAN platform products. This add-on the EPLAN API allows you to develop your own customized solutions in collaboration with EPLAN or other partners. The following section provides information on the various new features of EPLAN API. Defining function definitions of unplaced connections EPLAN API now also provides the facility to define or modify the function definitions of unplaced connections. The new FunctionDefinition property has been added to the Connection class for this purpose. Creating unplaced connections EPLAN API can now also be used to create unplaced connections. A new constructor has been added to the Connection class for this purpose. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 47

48 New Features in the Master Data New Features in the Master Data Master Data: Symbols Note: The following pages show a number of illustrations of new symbols from different symbol libraries. The illustrations show variant "A" of the respective symbols in multi-line representation. The name and number of the symbol are shown underneath the symbol. IEC, GOST, and GB standards The following new symbols for distributed terminals are available in the symbol libraries IEC_symbol, IEC_single_symbol, GOST_symbol, GOST_single_symbol, GB_symbol and GB_single_symbol: XT4OL_2 // 1401 XT4_2 // 1402 XT3_2 // 1404 XT2_2 // 1405 XT1_2 // EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

49 New Features in the Master Data The following terminal symbols have also been added to these symbol libraries: X2_STBU // 1361 X2_BU // 1362 X2_ST // 1363 NFPA standard The following new symbols for distributed terminals are available in the symbol libraries NFPA_symbol and NFPA_single_symbol: XT4OL_2 // 1401 XT4_2 // 1402 XT3_2 // 1404 XT2_2 // 1405 XT1_2 // 1406 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 49

50 New Features in the Master Data The following terminal symbols have also been added to these symbol libraries: X2_STBU // 1361 X2_BU // 1362 X2_ST // 1363 Fluid power and process engineering The following new symbols have been added to the PNE1ESS symbol library: V11.5.1_22_40 Z_ZUB_42 V11.5.1_52_12 V11.5.1_53_25 // 668 // 679 // 882 // 955 Special symbol library A new symbol for interruption points has been created in the SPECIAL symbol library: BP2 // 53 // Interruption point (double arrow) BP2 50 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

51 New Features in the Master Data Master Data: Identifiers Under Utilities > Master data > Identifier, an identifier set is now available for the Chinese standard GB/T For this purpose, the column GB/T 5094, which contains the relevant identifiers, was added to the Suggested identifiers dialog. Master Data: Macros Fluid power In EPLAN Fluid, 60 new symbol macros have been created for the "Pneumatics" trade, and more than 1,000 new symbol macros for the "Hydraulics" trade. Following the installation, numerous devices and accessory parts from fluid power are available as symbol macros in the corresponding subdirectories of the macro directory (\VDMA\ Pneumatics and \VDMA\Hydraulics). EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 51

52 New Features in the Master Data The large number of motors, pumps, valves, sensors, cylinders and other devices in these macros can be used directly in the planning of your EPLAN Fluid projects. Note: The new symbol macros for fluid power also form part of the Fluid datapack, which you can download from the EPLAN support area on the Internet or from This datapack contains the very latest set of fluid master data. 52 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

53 Other New Features and Information Other New Features and Information Customer Queries and Messages Note: Please note that the following EPLAN service is not possible in all countries. A large number of your queries and wishes have contributed to the new version of the EPLAN platform. Please note that not all subjects can be listed within the scope of this document. You can, however, query the status of your message ("issue") with us at any time. Login to EPLAN Support on the Internet (software service customers only) and, within our support area, click the Login Call-Tracking hyperlink under Call tracking. The "EPLAN Support Call Tracking" page will now open in your browser. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 53

54 Other New Features and Information You need the following information to log on here: User name (= your last name) The first five digits of your Software service number. After filling out the form, confirm this information by clicking [Login]. In the Issue No. field on the next page, enter the issue number that you were given by support and click [Search]. 54 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1

55 Other New Features and Information You will be redirected to your message. This will show you an overview of your support query. EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1 55

56 Other New Features and Information Validation Code If you already have an activation of Version 2.0, then you do not need a new activation code. Users with activations for older EPLAN versions, on the other hand, do need a new activation code. This is provided on the delivery note sent with your storage medium. In addition, you can now have the option of retrieving the validation code via the internet (see the following section). Retrieving the validation code online EPLAN enables you to carry out the final installation step quickly and easily by allowing you to retrieve the validation code required for licensing via the internet. After the required data have been transmitted, the validation code is automatically copied into the license dialog. Note: Please note that you must be connected to the internet to download the validation code. You cannot retrieve a validation code for network licenses or licenses without a dongle. The Enter validation code dialog has been enhanced to allow you the option of retrieving the validation code online. This dialog opens when you start the application for the first time after installation. Click the new [Retrieve online] button. 56 EPLAN NEWS 2.0 SP 1