Optix Basics: Project Emulation & Transfer

Summary

In this video, Eric Hanley, an automation specialist at ESN, demonstrates how to emulate and transfer a FactoryTalk Optix application to an Optix panel. The process includes setting up the emulator, testing graphics, and transferring the project to the panel using an IP address and user credentials. Viewers learn about the importance of screen planning for mobile and web clients, the download and compile process, and troubleshooting common issues. The tutorial emphasizes efficient updates, with faster transfer times after the initial setup, and provides helpful insights into ensuring smooth deployment and connectivity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ensure you have a saved project before starting the emulator.
• 😀 Press the play button in the toolbar to begin emulation and check for any issues with C code if added.
• 😀 Once the emulator is running, set the system to Auto mode and press start to simulate the application’s functionality.
• 😀 Use the navigation bar to switch between different screens and test how the objects appear on each screen.
• 😀 Proper planning of screen layouts is essential, especially if the application will be accessed via mobile or web clients.
• 😀 Downloading a project to an Optics panel involves selecting the target device, entering its IP address, and using the correct username.
• 😀 Always choose whether to encrypt the file and decide if you want to include the source code when transferring.
• 😀 If this is the first time connecting to the Optics panel, accept the validation certificate when prompted.
• 😀 Be aware of potential connection issues due to incorrect passwords or hardware configuration settings.
• 😀 If the download begins successfully, the PC screen will show a status indicator and the panel screen will go dark during the transfer.
• 😀 For faster updates, only the parts of the application that have changed will be transferred, making subsequent updates quicker than the initial download.

Q & A

What is the first step in running the emulator for FactoryTalk Optics?

The first step is to ensure you have an existing saved project. After that, you can press the *Play* button in the toolbar to start the emulator.

What should you be cautious about when running the emulator with added C code?

If you've added C code to the project, you should proceed with caution because the system does not compile C code during the emulation process, which could potentially lead to issues.

How can you confirm that the emulator is working correctly?

Once the emulator starts, the display should appear on your screen, and you will be able to see all your objects running in the emulator.

How do you switch the system to Auto mode in FactoryTalk Optics?

To switch the system to Auto mode, flip the mode switch to Auto and then press *Start*. This will activate the system's automation features, and you'll see indicators like the tank level gauge increase.

What should you consider when setting up the screens for FactoryTalk Optics?

When setting up screens, it's important to plan properly, especially if you expect to use mobile or web clients. If screens are not configured correctly (like on Screen 1), objects might not display properly when switching between screens.

How do you begin the process of downloading the project to an Optics panel?

To download the project, select the drop-down menu for the emulator target, add a new device (such as the Optics panel), and enter the device's IP address and username. Then, choose the default download path settings and proceed with the transfer.

What options are available when downloading to an Optics panel, and what should you choose?

You can choose to encrypt the file or transfer the source file. It's recommended to transfer the source file as it allows you to upload the project in the field later for restoration.

What happens if the password or update service settings are incorrect during the transfer process?

If the password is incorrect or the update service checkbox is not enabled on the Optics panel, you will see a red note indicating that the connection is unavailable, and you'll be asked to verify your configuration and hardware settings.

What should you do if the Optics panel shows a 'No application found' message?

If you see a 'No application found' message, ensure you're on the correct screen for the download to work. This message means that no project has been loaded onto the panel yet.

Why might USB transfers be beneficial in some cases, and when should they be used?

USB transfers can be a faster and more reliable method, especially if you're working with virtual machines or if network speeds are slow. It's a good backup plan for transferring runtime applications, particularly when other methods aren't performing well.