8 Index ..................................................................................................................................... 100
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 10
Session Manage
1 Overview
The Session Manager allows the user to configure, monitor and administer the operation of the
database and associated tasks within an single environment. A session consists of a database and
one or more data collectors and ancillary tasks.
A session can be defined as the execution of a number of OpenEnterprise components necessary for
the collection and manipulation of process data. There are a number of Server components which
must be running in order to constitute a session, and some which are optional, depending on the type
of application. Sessions can be standalone or redundant.
Below is a list of some Server components that may be running in a typical Session.
The Database (RTRDB)
The RTRDB is the store of data collected from the process control network. It is an
essential session component. The Workstation resident Bristol OPC Server
connects to the RTRDB to provide data to OPC Clients. Although normally only
one instance of the RTRDB is needed, some applications may use more than one
configured database, and each configured database is run by an instance of the
RTRDB.
The Real Time Device Interface (RDI)
An RDI is required for each type of RTU/PLC being used within the application.
OpenEnterprise currently provides the NW3000 protocol Driver (rdi3000.exe) for
Bristol RTU/Controllers - and the AB Driver for Allen-Bradley PLCs. A valid RDI is
an essential Session component.
The Database Builder (DBB) and Poll List Builder (TPB)
These applications are used to update the Database when changes are made to
the ACCOL program within a Bristol RTU/Controller. When run as part of a Session
they may be used to monitor such changes and automatically update the
Database. If the project uses Bristol RTU/controllers and the signal load is likely to
be changed at the RTU it is recommended to run these components in monitor
mode as part of the Session..
The Scheduler
Is used for scheduling applications that run Calculations or Reports. It handles the
creation of Expiring and Alarmed Notes. It is also essential for applications that
require scheduling of signal values.
The Calculation Server
Runs calculations. It is must be running in Sessions which regularly run
calculations or reports.
The OEPing component
Is used for Redundant Servers in conjunction with a dedicated Redundancy
Network to enable redundancy in the case of normal network breakdown.
A Session provides high availability to an unlimited number of OpenEnterprise and associated
applications for viewing and updating process and configuration data.
A single instance of Session Manager can only run a single OpenEnterprise Session. However, a
single OpenEnterprise Server computer can run multiple concurrent instances of the Session
Manager.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
Spec
Sessio
ag
er should not wait unt
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 11
Session Manage
2 Starting Session Manager
There are four ways in which Session Manager can be started:-
• Command Line with parameters
• From the Windows Start Button
• Auto Restarting
• As a Windows Service
2.1 Command Line Parameters
Command line options can be used to open, or open and start a named session. The Session
Managers command line parameters are defined as follows:
The '-' character may be substituted with a '/' character, where:
-s<Session> Name of the session to be opened.
-a
-b
-m
-h
-v
rpc+
rpc-
Indicates that the session should be automatically re-started following a session
failure or failover. This option is only applicable to a redundant session. Use the a parameter to re-start a redundant session automatically following a session
failure or failover.
The -a parameter can optionally be followed by a time period, specified in
milliseconds, that will be used as the delay between the session failing and the
auto-restart commencing. The default value is 60000 (60 seconds).
e.g. DRCP -sMySession -b -a45000
The above example will result in an auto-restart commencing 45 seconds after
the running session failed.
Note that auto-restart can also be enabled at runtime by selecting the Options |
Auto Restart menu option.
Indicates that the session specified by the s option should be automatically
started. Use this flag in conjunction with the -s option.
Specifies that the Session Manager will be started as a minimised window. This
flag should be used when the Session is to be started in a minimised state.
Specifies that the Session Manager will be started as a hidden window. Use this
flag when the Session is to be started with the Session Manager window hidden.
The window can be made visible by double-clicking the Session Managers icon
in the System Tray.
Specifies verbose mode. The Status Window will show more information
pertaining to starting and stopping tasks. Default is non-verbose mode.
Specifies that the Session Manager should wait until the RPC service has
started before continuing to open and start a session. This is the default
behaviour.
ifies that the
n Man
il the RPC service has
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 12
started before continuing to open and start a session.
rpc=<name>
rpct=<ms>
rpcr=<ms>
Specifies the name of the RPC service. Default value is "RpcSs".
Specifies a time period in milliseconds. This time period is the maximum amount
of time that the Session Manager will wait for the RPC service to start-up. The
RPC service will be checked once every rpcr milliseconds for a maximum of rpct
milliseconds. The default value is 60000 (60 seconds). To override the default
value to 120 seconds, for example, please specify -rpct=120000 on the
command line.
Specifies a time period in milliseconds. This time period specifies how often the
Session Manager will check to see if the RPC service has started. The default
value is 1000 (1 second).
For example, to automatically open and start the standalone session the
command line parameters will be:
DRCP -sStandalone -b
When running the Session Manager as a Windows Service, it is strongly
recommended that the check for RPC start-up is not disabled. If the Session
starts before the RPC service has started then this may cause incorrect
operation.
Session Manage
2.2 Start Session Manager From Start Button
The most usual method for opening the Session Manager is to start it from the Windows Start Menu
as demonstrated in the image below.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 13
Session Manage
Selecting the option displayed in the image above will start the OpenEnterprise Session Manager.
2.3 Auto Restarting a Session
In order to automatically re-start a failed session, the user will need to specify the /a (-a) command
line parameter. See the Command Line Parameters
information.
and Auto Restart Menu topics for further
2.4 Session Manager as a Windows Service
Running a Session as a Windows service will allow a configured Session to start when the operating
system starts. This provides an auto-start of the configured Session.
The following example will install the example Standalone session for automatic start-up and desktop
interaction.
The following example will remove the auto-start of the Standalone session.
ServiceLauncher -u -n"Standalone Session".
Session Manage
See Service Launcher
Session Manager to start as a Windows Service.
help for more information on using the Service Launcher to configure the
2.5 StopOE.exe
The StopOE application can be used to send a StopOE request to a named session or to all sessions.
2.5.1 Using StopOE.exe with UPS Servers
It is recommended for use with UPS servers as part of the shutdown script, or when Session Manager
is configured as a Windows service, to perform an orderly shutdown of OpenEnterprise server and
prevent any data loss.
Note that when StopOE is used to stop a session that the Session Manager will perform a StopOE but
will not exit unless the -x flag is used.
The command line options are ...
StopOE <session> -i -x -w
Where:
<session> is the session name to StopOE. Using a session name of _DRCP_BROADCAST will
send a StopOE request to all Session Manager instances that are running on the Server.
-i specifies an intelligent StopOE. e.g. If a master with a standby then a failover will be requested.
-x specifies the Session Manager is also to exit.
-w specifies StopOE should wait until the session manager has processed the message. Uses
SendMessage instead of PostMessage.
2.5.2 StopOE.exe Examples
2.5.2.1 StopOE.exe Session1
... will send a StopOE request to the Session Manager that has opened Session1.
2.5.2.2 StopOE.exe _DRCP_BROADCAST
... will send a StopOE request to all top level windows so will perform a
StopOE for all running Session Managers.
2.5.2.3 StopOE.exe Session1 -w -x
... will result in Session1 stopping followed by a Session Manager close.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 15
2.5.2.4 StopOE.exe Session1 -i -w
... if sent to a Master with a healthy standby will result in a failover to the standby followed by a close
of the Session Manager task. If sent to a standby then the standby will stop without any effect on the
master.
Session Manage
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 16
Session Manage
3 Session Manager Interface
The Session Manager has menu options that enable you to create a new OpenEnterprise Session,
open and start a saved OpenEnterprise Session or modify an opened OpenEnterprise Session. The
following figure shows how the Session Manager will appear to the user when a Session is open and
running.
3.1 Session Manager Window Title
The window title bar identifies the currently open session. If no session is open then the session name
will be Untitled.
3.2 Menu Bar
The Session Manager's Menu Bar contains four items.
• Session Menu
• View Menu
• Options Menu
• Help Menu
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 17
Session Manage
3.2.1 Session Menu
The Session Menu option allows the user to open or close a session and stop and start a session.
3.2.1.1 New Session
This menu option opens the Add New Session wizard
OpenEnterprise Session. It is only available when no Session is opened in the Session Manager.
that enables you to configure a whole new
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 18
3.2.1.2 Open Menu
Session Manage
Selection of this menu option will display the Open Session dialogue
available for selection if no session is currently open.
3.2.1.3 Open Session Dialog
The Open Session dialogue presents the user with a list of all configured sessions. The user should
select the session they wish to open. Checking 'Automatically run this session' will result in the
session being opened and started when the OK button is selected.
. The Open menu option is only
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 19
3.2.1.4 Close Menu
Selecting the Close option will close the current open session. The Close option is only available for
selection if a session is open and not currently running.
3.2.1.5 Add Task Menu
Session Manage
Selecting this menu item will open up the Add Task wizard
Task for the Session. The Add Task wizard presents you with the Task Property dialog's Pages one at
a time, so that you can configure the new Task. The only difference is that you only get to view one
Page at a time, and the Pages have <Back and Next> buttons at the bottom:-
To start with these buttons are disabled, and only become enabled when you have configured the
new Task's Name, Filename, Working Directory and Program Arguments. Once enabled you can
move forward and back through the wizard using these buttons.
, which enables you to configure a new
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 20
3.2.1.6 Session Properties
Session Manage
This option opens the Modify Session property pages
enabled until a session has been opened by selecting the Open... option from the Session menu.
3.2.1.7 Start Menu
Selecting the Start option will start the session that is currently open. Starting a session will result in
all those tasks configured for start-up, being started. The Start option is only available for selection if a
session is currently open and not running.
for the currently opened session. It is not
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 21
3.2.1.8 Stop Menu
Selecting the Stop option will present the user with a confirmation dialogue prior to stopping the
currently running session. Selecting Yes will continue with the Stop, selecting No will cancel the Stop.
The Stop option is only available for selection if a session is open and running.
Session Manage
It is possible to enforce security via a password to a Stop request. If security is enabled then a Stop
request will prompt the user to enter a password.
If the entered password is valid then the Stop request will proceed. The password is configured on a
per server basis by setting the Password value on the Session Manager Task key in the Settings
Editor.
When running a redundant session, a message may be displayed when a Stop is requested on the
Master session whilst a healthy standby is running.
This message is intended as a reminder that performing a Stop of a Master server should not be used
as an alternative to a failover request. Certain session configurations may result in both master and
standby databases closing if a Stop is performed on the Master. The displaying of this message can
be disabled by setting the DisableStopOEWarning value to 1 on the Session Manager key in the
Settings Editor.
3.2.1.9 Exit Menu
If a session is currently running when the Exit option is chosen then this will be treated as a Stop
request. This will result in the Stop Session confirmation dialogue appearing.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 22
If a session is currently open but not running, then the session will be closed and the Session
Manager will exit.
If no session is currently open the Session Manager will exit.
Session Manage
3.2.2 Menu Bar View Menu
The View Menu option allows the user to show and hide the Session Managers status bar.
Select the Status Bar option to show or hide the Session Manager's Status Bar. If a tick is present,
then the Status bar will be displayed.
3.2.3 Options Menu
The Options menu allows the user to configure various behavioral properties of the Session Manager.
Within a redundant Session it will also allow for manual failovers to be performed.
3.2.3.1 Failover Menu
The Failover option is disabled for a standalone session. On redundant systems, it is available when
a healthy standby is available. It enables a controlled failover operation. Before the failover, a
confirmation message box is displayed: -
If the [Yes] button is selected the Session Manager will initiate a failover. The current master server
will stop running and the standby will become the master.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 23
3.2.3.2 Record Timestamps Menu
The Record Status Timestamps option allows the user to turn on or off timestamped messages from
appearing in the Status Window. When the option is selected each message appearing in the Status
Window will be preceded by a timestamp. By default the timestamp will appear in the default local
format and will be adjusted to local time. If GMT timestamps are required then a key value can be set
to override the default behaviour on the Session Manager key in the Settings Editor. See the Settings
Editor document for further information.
Note: This option is persistent across consecutive invocations of the Session Manager.
3.2.3.3 Auto Restart Menu
only applicable to a redundant session. The Auto Restart option allows the user to turn on automatic
restart of the session. An automatic restart will only occur for a redundant session when the session
stops following a software triggered shutdown. A shutdown performed using the Stop menu will not
result in an auto restart occurring. This option can be used to override the behaviour of the Session
Manager's -a command line option.
3.2.3.4 Enable Status File
When this option is ticked, Session Manager will keep a text file with the name <SessionName>.txt in
the Working Directory for the running Session. This will consist of the contents of the Session
Manager Status Pane.
Session Manage
3.2.3.5 Append to Status File
When this option is selected, Session Manager will append details of successive runs of the named
session to the Status File.
3.2.3.6 Hide When Minimized Menu
The Hide When Minimized option allows the user to control whether the Session Manager window will
be hidden when minimised. When the Session Manager is minimised and this option is selected,
double-clicking the Session Manager icon in the Windows System Tray will show the Session
Manager.
Note: This option is persistent across consecutive invocations of the Session Manager.
3.2.4 Help Menu
The Help menu option gives access to this Help file and also to the About Box. The About Box
provides product version and build numbers and Bristol contact information.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 24
Session Manage
3.3 Session Manager Status Pane
The Status Pane will be updated with events as and when they occur. The event at the top of the
window will be the most recent event. Any event pertinent to the session will be logged to the Status
Window. These will include:
• Opening and closing sessions.
• Starting and Stopping the session.
• Session state changes.
• Critical task failures and restarts.
All events can be optionally preceded by a timestamp. Timestamps can be enabled using the Options
menu.
3.4 Session Manager Task List Pane
The Task List window details all the tasks configured for the open session.
If the list is empty then no session is open. Each item in the task list details an individual task. It
specifies how and where the task will run. The Active column shows whether the task is currently
running or not.
Right clicking the mouse within the Task List will display a context menu. This allows the user to
perform a number of actions. Click on the link below to view these context menu options.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 25
Session Manage
3.4.1 Task List Context Menu
The Task List not only displays details concerning the currently configured Tasks for a Session, but
provides a context menu that can be used to start, stop, show, hide, disable, delete, modify or import
Tasks.
To add a Task, use the Session>Add Task
Task wizard.
The availability of Context Menu options depends on the current state of the Task. The image below
shows the available context options on the same task in both active and stopped mode.
menu. This will enable a new task to be added using the
Note:
• To access the Context menu for a Task, select a Task by positioning the mouse pointer over
it and press the right mouse button. The task will become highlighted and a context menu will
be displayed.
3.4.1.1 Start Or Stop Tasks
If the task is currently running then a Stop option will be available. If the task is currently stopped then
a Start option will be available.
Note:
Manually stopping and starting tasks within a redundant session can potentially cause redundancy
problems and unpredictable behaviour.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 26
3.4.1.2 Show Or Hide Tasks
If the user hides a task then the task will not be visible on the Desktop. If the user shows a hidden
task then the task will be visible on the Desktop.
3.4.1.3 Task Properties
Session Manage
This option will open the Task Properties dialog
selected Task. Note that while the Task is running, this dialog will be presented in Read-Only mode.
3.4.1.3.1 Modify Mode
In order to make changes to the configuration of a Task, you need to firstly stop the Task, using the
Stop option on the Task List Context Menu. Then, select the Properties option again, and the
Properties dialog will be presented in Modify Mode, so that changes can be made.
3.4.1.4 Delete Task
Selecting this option will delete the Task. Note, the Task must be stopped before this option becomes
available.
3.4.1.5 Import New Tasks
Session Manager searches the Tasks keys for the current Session in the OpenEnterprise settings file.
If any Task key is found that is not in the current list of tasks running in the Session Task list, the task
is imported into the current Session.
This option supports the notion of adding new tasks to a Session that have been exported, modified
and re-imported from the Settings Editor, thereby avoiding use of the Task wizard.
If no new tasks are found, a message box appears with the message 'No new tasks found'.
, which displays all configuration pages for the
3.5 Session Manager Status Bar
The Status Bar will show the current state of the open session. The example shows that the session
is currently running in Standalone mode. In a redundant system the two fields will show Master and
Standby.
3.6 Windows System Tray Icon
Icons will be displayed in the Windows System Tray to indicate the state of the Session.
The following example shows an Active Master session.
Placing the pointer over the icon will display the session name and state, as shown: -
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 27
The following list details the icons that may be displayed and their associated meaning.
• No session opened or the opened session has not been started.
• Standalone or Redundant session starting.
• Standalone or Redundant master session has failed.
• Standalone or Redundant healthy master session.
• Redundant standby session has failed.
• Redundant healthy standby session.
Session Manage
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 28
Session Manage
4 Session Configuration
4.1 Add New Session Wizard
The Add New Session Wizard is displayed when the Session>New menu option is selected from the
Session Manager's menu bar.
The number of pages in the wizard depends on whether a standalone or redundant configuration is
specified.
The pages are exactly the same as those that are on the Session Properties dialog, but they are
presented one at a time, and navigation through the pages is by [Next>] and [<Back] buttons.
The pages of the New Session wizard are:-
1. The Session Type Page
2. The Session Settings Page
3. The Software Watchdog Page
4. The Server Identification Page (redundant system only)
5. The Arbitrator Page (redundant system only)
6. The T-bar Page (redundant system only)
7. The Tasks Page
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 29
Session Manage
4.2 Modify Session Dialog
The Modify Session Dialog appears when the Session>Properties menu is selected from the Session
Manager's menu bar.
The dialog provides four to seven pages that enable you to modify an OpenEnterprise Session,
depending on whether it is a standalone or redundant system. They are identical to the Add Session
Wizard pages,except that you can immediately access any page you want by clicking on the tabs
across the top of the dialog. They are:-
1. The Session Type Page
2. The Session Settings Page
3. The Software Watchdog Page
4. The Server Identification Page (redundant system only)
5. The Arbitrator Page (redundant system only)
6. The T-bar Page (redundant system only)
7. The Tasks Page
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 30
Session Manage
4.3 Session Type Page
The Session Type Page in Wizard mode enables you to select whether the Session will be a
Standalone or Redundant type. In Edit mode, the type cannot be changed, but the dataservice and
Command File Folder can be changed.
4.3.1 Name
The name of the Session, which must be unique. When modifying a Session, this field is disabled,
and cannot be changed.
4.3.2 Standalone Session
When creating a new Session, click here to create a Standalone Session. A Standalone Session is a
single Server running a single OpenEnterprise database. This selection cannot be modified at a later
stage.
4.3.3 Redundant Session
When creating a new Session, click here to create a Redundant Session. A Redundant Session is two
Servers running a single OpenEnterprise database in Master and Standby mode. If the Maser fails,
the Standby takes over, becoming the new Master. This selection cannot be modified at a later stage.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 31
Session Manage
4.3.4 Dataservice
This is the string which identifies the database to clients and enables them to connect. It is of the
format <ServerName>:<Portname>, unless the database is running locally, when all that is required is
<Portname>..
<ServerName> can be the actual network name of the Server, but is often an alias that is entered
against the Server's IP address into the Windows Hosts file (%WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc). If it is a
remote database It enables clients to locate the Server on which the database is running.
<PortName> is an alias for a TCP/IP port that is entered into the Windows Services file
(%WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc). It enables clients to connect to the database. This is set up when
OpenEnterprise is installed with an alias of rtrdb1, and a port number of 11101.
4.3.5 Command File Folder
This is the folder where the special Custom Command files for redundant systems are placed. These
are the LoadingDatabase.cmd, Master.cmd and Standby.cmd files. For further information on these
files see the Custom Commands - Redundant
topic.
4.3.6 Browse button
Opens up a browse dialog, so that you can search for the required object, whether it be a directory, a
file or a tag from an OPC Server. The context determines the type of browser dialog.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 32
Session Manage
4.4 Session Settings Page
The Session Settings Page in Wizard mode enables you to select a single CPU on which to run the
Task, (if multiple CPUs are available).
4.4.1 CPU Affinity Setting
This is a drop-down list of all the CPUs available on the Server. If a single CPU is selected, the Task
will only run on that CPU.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 33
Session Manage
4.5 Software Watchdog Page
The Software Watchdog allows the you to configure the Software Watchdog.
4.5.1 Software Watchdog Enabled
Check this box by clicking on it to enable the Software Watchdog. If it is not enabled, the Session
Manager will not restart failed critical tasks.
4.5.2 Software Watchdog Frequency
The frequency, in seconds, at which the Software Watchdog will run.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 34
Session Manage
4.6 Server Identification Page
The Server Identification Page enables you to define the Server's label, and also to define its own and
the other computer's name. These settings are only needed for Redundant systems, so this page will
not be displayed for a Standalone setup.
4.6.1 This Server Label
The Label that the Session Manager associates with this computer.
4.6.2 This Computer Name
The actual computer name (or alias as defined in the Hosts file) of this computer. This name must be
an exact case-sensitive match with the name used in the oejcpcontrol table in the Arbitrator database
for this computer.
4.6.3 Other Computer Name
The actual computer name (or alias as defined in the Hosts file) of the other computer. This name
must be an exact case-sensitive match with the name used in the oejcpcontrol table in the Arbitrator
database for this computer.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 35
Session Manage
4.6.4 Test Button
The Session Manager will test the network for a reply from the computer defined in the computer
name field to the left of the button. If there is no reply, you will be notified.
4.6.5 Browse Network Button
A network browsing dialog will open, enabling you to identify the other Server.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 36
Session Manage
4.7 Arbitrator Page
The Arbitrator Page enables you to configure the Arbitrator Dataservice, along with Connection
Options. It is only available if you are configuring a Redundant Session.
4.7.1 Arbitrator Dataservice
This is the order in which the journal process within the Database looks for a connection with the
arbitrator database. Please refer to the Arbitrator Build and Configuration - Redundant
information on the Arbitrator dataservice.
topic for more
4.7.2 Retries
Determines the number of times the Session Manager should try to find the arbitrator using the
options in the Arbitrator Dataservice field.
4.7.3 Retries Multiplier
This value is used with the Retries value. Session Manager will retry the connection attempt (Retries *
RetriesMultiplier) times. To speed up start-up time therefore, lower the Timeout, RetriesMultiplier and
TimeoutMultiplier values.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 37
Session Manage
4.7.4 Timeout
Determines the amount of time the Session Manager should spend in trying to connect to the
arbitrator using each of the sources listed in the Dataservice value.
4.7.5 Timeout Multiplier
This value is used with the Timeout value. Session Manager will retry the connection after (Timeout *
TimeoutMultiplier) seconds. To speed up start-up time therefore, lower the Timeout, RetriesMultiplier
and TimeoutMultiplier values.
4.8 T-bar Page
This page allows you to configure options for a T-bar if you are using one. This page is only available
if you are modifying a Redundant Session.
4.8.1 T-Bar Enabled
When checked, the T-bar is enabled. Leave unchecked if not using a T-bar.
4.8.2 T-Bar OPC Tag
Type the T-bar tag in here, or use the Browse button to browse for the required tag.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 38
Session Manage
4.8.3 Browse button
Opens up a browse dialog, so that you can search for the required object, whether it be a directory, a
file or a tag from an OPC Server. The context determines the type of browser dialog.
4.9 Tasks Page
Every Session requires that a number of Tasks be configured. This page enables you to add and at
the same time configure each Task that will be needed for the Session.
4.9.1 Task List
Configured Tasks are listed here. They can be modified or removed by selecting the Task followed by
the appropriate button.
4.9.2 Add button
This button opens up the Task Properties Dialog at the Task Page. The Page will be in Wizard mode
4.9.3 Remove button
The selected Task will be deleted from the list, and will no longer be a part of the Session being
configured.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 39
Session Manage
4.9.4 Modify button
This button opens up the Task Properties Dialog at the Task Page. The Page will be in Modify mode
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 40
Session Manage
5 Task Configuration
New Tasks can be added to a Session by selecting the Session>Add Task option from the Session
Manager's mennu bar.
Individual Tasks that are part of a Session can be modified from the Task List Pane
Task and selecting the Properties option from the Context Menu. This opens the Task Properties
Dialog with the five Property Pages available for configuring the Task. To be able to configure a Task
in this way, the Task must be stopped first.
• Task Page
• Shutdown Page
• Advanced Shutdown Page
• Settings Page
• Dependencies Page
by clicking on the
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 41
Session Manage
5.1 Task Page
In Modify Mode, the Task Property Page enables you to configure the session name and file name of
an OpenEnterprise Task, it's working directory, and the arguments that must be passed to it when it
starts.
5.1.1 Task Name
This is the name of the Task as it will appear in the Session Manager's Task List. It can be made to
be more descriptive than the file name of the Task. Spaces are allowed
5.1.2 Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file using the
[Browse...] button .
5.1.3 Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 42
Session Manage
5.1.4 Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Task at start-up. To see what arguments are
available for each Task, please refer to it's own Help File. These can be accessed from the Server
Specific Help page found in the main OpenEnterprise Help file. This can be opened by selecting:-
Start>Program Files>OpenEnterprise>Documentation
5.1.4.1 The Database Task and Persistence
The Task Program Arguments for the Database Task are worth and extra mention here, because they
determine whether or not the Database will be configured to be persistent. When the Database is set
to be persistent, it uses a data file with a .MMF extension, rather than a .DAT extension (the MMF
stands for Memory Mapped File). The example here shows the Database Task configured for
persistence with the program arguments set to:-
-m"realtime.mmf" -s51435559 db > db.txt
For a more detailed explanation of this program argument, and how it affects the Database Task,
please see the Configuring Persistence
andSizing the MMF File topics.
5.1.5 Database Ready Port
The UDP port number or name used by the database to inform the Session that the database is ready
to accept client connections. Only applicable to database Tasks (rtrdb.exe).
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 43
Session Manage
5.2 Shutdown Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to select the most appropriate way of shutting down the
selected Task. These options include the option to use a separate executable to shut the Task down.
5.2.1 Shutdown Type
This is a drop-down list of four different methods which may be used to close a Task. They are listed
below, with an explanation of each:-
• Close - Shuts down the task cleanly using a Windows close message.
• Kill - Kills the Task in the same way that tasks are killed in the Windows Task Manager.
• Nothing - No Shutdown action is performed. Used for Tasks that handle their own shutdown
criteria. This can be used on redundant systems with Tasks that would normally close
themselves anyway when the database is stopped, such as a Remote Device Interface (eg
RDI3000).
• Run a Shutdown Task - Run a separate program to close the Task. When this option is
selected, the fields in the Shutdown Task section become enabled. For instance, the
ShutdownDB.exe should be used when closing a Standalone database because
ShutdownDB automatically saves the database before closing it down. The ShutdownDB
application can be found in the ....OpenEnterprise\bin directory.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 44
Session Manage
5.2.2 Shutdown Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Shutdown Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file
using the [Browse...] button .
5.2.3 Shutdown Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
5.2.4 Shutdown Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Shutdown Task at start-up. To see what
arguments are available for this application, please refer to the Configuring the Database Shutdown
Task topic.
5.2.5 Advanced Shutdown Button
This button opens the Advanced Shutdown Page. This is for use with OpenEnterprise systems that
are using redundant servers. It allows you to configure a special Shutdown procedure for when a
redundant system is running with a Master server only.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 45
Session Manage
5.3 Advanced Shutdown Page
This Page enables you to control the way a Task closes when you are running redundant Servers and
you only have the Master running. It is important that you do this, because the normal method for
closing the database when running redundant servers (the Windows WM_CLOSE method) does not
save the database. Therefore, when running a redundant system with a Master only you run the risk
of losing data if the ShutdownDB program is not used to stop the database. You can set a time period
for the ShutdownDB Task itself to exit, after which it may be killed.
5.3.1 Shutdown Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Shutdown Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file
using the [Browse...] button .
5.3.2 Shutdown Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
5.3.3 Shutdown Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Shutdown Task at start-up. To see what
arguments are available for this application, please refer to the Configuring the Database Shutdown
Task topic.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 46
Session Manage
5.3.4 Shutdown Timeout
A time, in seconds, which the Session Manager will wait for the application to exit.
5.3.5 Kill Task
Select this if you want the Session Manager to attempt to kill the Task after the Shutdown Timeout
has expired.
5.4 Settings Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to configure other factors which control the way the Task is
run, for instance it's behaviour, criticality, process affinity and whether or not it should be visible.
5.4.1 Disabled Task
Check this box to disable the selected Task. Disabled Tasks will not be started by the Session
Manager. A disabled Task cannot be run until it is first enabled by un-checking this box.
5.4.2 Run Task on Standby
In a redundant system, there may be some Tasks that are required to be running on the Standby as
well as the Master (i.e. the Archive File Manager, OEPing etc.). Check this box to ensure that the
Task runs on the Standby as well as the Master.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 47
Session Manage
5.4.3 Make Task Critical
Checking this box makes the Task critical. A critical Task is one which the Session Manager will
attempt to restart should it fail during the lifetime of a Session. Stopping the Task from the Session
Manager interface will not cause the Session Manager to attempt to restart it.
5.4.4 Number of Retries
The number of times the Session Manager will attempt to restart a failed critical Task.
5.4.5 Infinite Retries
When checked, the Session Manager will continue to attempt to start the failed critical Task until the
Task is restarted or the Session is stopped.
5.4.6 Inherit Affinity from Session
When checked, the Session Manager will use the same AffinityMask value which has been set for the
Session. This is the default setting, and means that on a multi-processor computer, no particular CPU
will be designated for the Task to run on (AffinityMask=0(zero)).
5.4.7 Select CPU
Select the CPU that this Task will run on. On multi-processor computers, this list will be populated
with numbers representing the number of processors available. To designate a single CPU to run this
Task, un-check the Inherit settings from session box, and select the CPU from this list.
5.4.8 Make Task Visible
Check this box to allow the Task to run with desktop interaction (i.e. visible on the Windows desktop).
A Task may be run invisibly or visibly to give access to its interface from the Windows desktop. Uncheck this box to make the Task run as a background Task with no desktop interaction.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 48
Session Manage
5.5 Dependencies Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to configure the order in which you want Tasks to start up
when the Session is started.
5.5.1 Session Start
This is the default setting for starting Tasks. The Session Manager will start the components of the
Session in alphabetical order as seen here.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 49
If your Session has no dependency issues, then leave this button selected.
Session Manage
5.5.2 Start After a Named Task
If you would rather control the order which components are started when a Session begins, then
select this option. For instance, if you want to make the Database to start before anything else,
configure all other Tasks to depend on the Database being started before they are started, as shown
in the example below.
5.5.3 Dependency Task
Click on this list to select the Dependency Task for this Task. Session Manager will then ensure that
this Task starts after the dependency Task has successfully started.
5.5.4 Stop Task When Dependent Task Stops
Check this box if you want this Task to be stopped automatically when the Dependency Task stops.
5.5.5 Startup Delay
You can delay the start-up of the Task. Enter the number of seconds delay in this field. The Session
Manager will start this Task the configured number of seconds after the dependency condition has
been met e.g. Session has started or the dependency Task has started.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 50
Session Manage
6 Sessions Worked Examples
This section contains two worked examples to further help you to understand the process of
configuring the Session Manager.
1. Configuring a Standalone Session
2. Configuring a Redundant Session
6.1 Standalone Example
The first step in creating a new Standalone or Redundant Session is to select the New... option from
the Session Menu of the main Session Manager window. Click the hotspots* on the image below for
further information.
6.1.1 Add New Option
Selection of this item will open the Add New Session Wizard, giving you the option to create a brand
new Standalone or Redundant Session.
6.1.2 SessionType Page
The Add New Session - Session Type page enables you to specify the new Session's name, whether
it will be a Standalone or Redundant Session, plus its Dataservice connection string and its Command
File directory.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 51
Session Manage
6.1.2.1 Name
The name of the Session, which must be unique. When modifying a Session, this field is disabled,
and cannot be changed.
6.1.2.2 Standalone Session
When creating a new Session, click here to create a Standalone Session. A Standalone Session is a
single Server running a single OpenEnterprise database. This selection cannot be modified at a later
stage.
6.1.2.3 Redundant Session
When creating a new Session, click here to create a Redundant Session. A Redundant Session is two
Servers running a single OpenEnterprise database in Master and Standby mode. If the Maser fails,
the Standby takes over, becoming the new Master. This selection cannot be modified at a later stage.
6.1.2.4 Dataservice
This is the string which identifies the database to clients and enables them to connect. It is of the
format <ServerName>:<Portname>, unless the database is running locally, when all that is required is
<Portname>..
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 52
<ServerName> can be the actual network name of the Server, but is often an alias that is entered
against the Server's IP address into the Windows Hosts file (%WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc). If it is a
remote database It enables clients to locate the Server on which the database is running.
<PortName> is an alias for a TCP/IP port that is entered into the Windows Services file
(%WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc). It enables clients to connect to the database. This is set up when
OpenEnterprise is installed with an alias of rtrdb1, and a port number of 11101.
6.1.2.5 Command File Folder
This is the folder where the special Custom Command files for redundant systems are placed. These
are the LoadingDatabase.cmd, Master.cmd and Standby.cmd files. For further information on these
files see the Custom Commands - Redundant
6.1.2.6 Browse button
Opens up a browse dialog, so that you can search for the required object, whether it be a directory, a
file or a tag from an OPC Server. The context determines the type of browser dialog.
topic.
Session Manage
6.1.3 Session Settings Page
The only decision on this page is regarding whether to run the Session on a single CPU or all CPUs.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 53
6.1.3.1 CPU Affinity Setting
This is a drop-down list of all the CPUs available on the Server. If a single CPU is selected, the Task
will only run on that CPU.
Session Manage
6.1.4 Software Watchdog Page
This page enables you to configure the Software Watchdog for the Session.
6.1.4.1 Software Watchdog Enabled
Check this box by clicking on it to enable the Software Watchdog. If it is not enabled, the Session
Manager will not restart failed critical tasks.
6.1.4.2 Software Watchdog Frequency
The frequency, in seconds, at which the Software Watchdog will run.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 54
Session Manage
6.1.5 Tasks Page
This page enables you to configure the Tasks you require for the Session. The main difference
between configuring a Standalone and Redundant Session comes when you add the Database Task.
Also some of the other Tasks may need extra settings when being configured for a Redundant
Session.
6.1.5.1 Task List
Configured Tasks are listed here. They can be modified or removed by selecting the Task followed by
the appropriate button.
6.1.5.2 Add button
This button opens up the Task Properties Dialog at the Task Page
6.1.5.3 Remove button
The selected Task will be deleted from the list, and will no longer be a part of the Session being
configured.
6.1.5.4 Modify button
This button opens up the Task Properties Dialog at the Task Page
. The Page will be in Wizard mode
. The Page will be in Modify mode
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 55
Session Manage
6.1.6 Task Configuration
New Tasks can be added to a Session by selecting the Session>Add Task option from the Session
Manager's mennu bar.
Individual Tasks that are part of a Session can be modified from the Task List Pane
Task and selecting the Properties option from the Context Menu. This opens the Task Properties
Dialog with the five Property Pages available for configuring the Task. To be able to configure a Task
in this way, the Task must be stopped first.
• Task Page
• Shutdown Page
• Advanced Shutdown Page
• Settings Page
• Dependencies Page
by clicking on the
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 56
6.1.6.1 Task Page
In Modify Mode, the Task Property Page enables you to configure the session name and file name of
an OpenEnterprise Task, it's working directory, and the arguments that must be passed to it when it
starts.
Session Manage
6.1.6.1.1 Task Name
This is the name of the Task as it will appear in the Session Manager's Task List. It can be made to
be more descriptive than the file name of the Task. Spaces are allowed
6.1.6.1.2 Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file using the
[Browse...] button .
6.1.6.1.3 Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 57
6.1.6.1.4 Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Task at start-up. To see what arguments are
available for each Task, please refer to it's own Help File. These can be accessed from the Server
Specific Help page found in the main OpenEnterprise Help file. This can be opened by selecting:-
Start>Program Files>OpenEnterprise>Documentation
6.1.6.1.4.1 The Database Task and Persistence
The Task Program Arguments for the Database Task are worth and extra mention here, because they
determine whether or not the Database will be configured to be persistent. When the Database is set
to be persistent, it uses a data file with a .MMF extension, rather than a .DAT extension (the MMF
stands for Memory Mapped File). The example here shows the Database Task configured for
persistence with the program arguments set to:-
-m"realtime.mmf" -s51435559 db > db.txt
For a more detailed explanation of this program argument, and how it affects the Database Task,
please see the Configuring Persistence
6.1.6.1.5 Database Ready Port
andSizing the MMF File topics.
Session Manage
The UDP port number or name used by the database to inform the Session that the database is ready
to accept client connections. Only applicable to database Tasks (rtrdb.exe).
6.1.6.1.6 OK Button
Saves any changes and closes the Properties dialog currently open.
6.1.6.1.7 Apply Button
Saves any changes and keeps the current Properties dialog open.
6.1.6.2 Shutdown Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to select the most appropriate way of shutting down the
selected Task. These options include the option to use a separate executable to shut the Task down.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 58
Session Manage
6.1.6.2.1 Shutdown Type
This is a drop-down list of four different methods which may be used to close a Task. They are listed
below, with an explanation of each:-
• Close - Shuts down the task cleanly using a Windows close message.
• Kill - Kills the Task in the same way that tasks are killed in the Windows Task Manager.
• Nothing - No Shutdown action is performed. Used for Tasks that handle their own shutdown
criteria. This can be used on redundant systems with Tasks that would normally close
themselves anyway when the database is stopped, such as a Remote Device Interface (eg
RDI3000).
• Run a Shutdown Task - Run a separate program to close the Task. When this option is
selected, the fields in the Shutdown Task section become enabled. For instance, the
ShutdownDB.exe should be used when closing a Standalone database because
ShutdownDB automatically saves the database before closing it down. The ShutdownDB
application can be found in the ....OpenEnterprise\bin directory.
6.1.6.2.2 Shutdown Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Shutdown Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file
using the [Browse...] button .
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 59
6.1.6.2.3 Shutdown Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
6.1.6.2.4 Shutdown Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Shutdown Task at start-up. To see what
arguments are available for this application, please refer to the Configuring the Database Shutdown
Task topic.
6.1.6.2.5 Advanced Shutdown Button
This button opens the Advanced Shutdown Page. This is for use with OpenEnterprise systems that
are using redundant servers. It allows you to configure a special Shutdown procedure for when a
redundant system is running with a Master server only.
6.1.6.3 Advanced Shutdown Page
This Page enables you to control the way a Task closes when you are running redundant Servers and
you only have the Master running. It is important that you do this, because the normal method for
closing the database when running redundant servers (the Windows WM_CLOSE method) does not
save the database. Therefore, when running a redundant system with a Master only you run the risk
of losing data if the ShutdownDB program is not used to stop the database. You can set a time period
for the ShutdownDB Task itself to exit, after which it may be killed.
Session Manage
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 60
6.1.6.3.1 Shutdown Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Shutdown Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file
using the [Browse...] button .
6.1.6.3.2 Shutdown Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
6.1.6.3.3 Shutdown Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Shutdown Task at start-up. To see what
arguments are available for this application, please refer to the Configuring the Database Shutdown
Task topic.
6.1.6.3.4 Shutdown Timeout
A time, in seconds, which the Session Manager will wait for the application to exit.
Session Manage
6.1.6.3.5 Kill Task
Select this if you want the Session Manager to attempt to kill the Task after the Shutdown Timeout
has expired.
6.1.6.4 Settings Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to configure other factors which control the way the Task is
run, for instance it's behaviour, criticality, process affinity and whether or not it should be visible.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 61
Session Manage
6.1.6.4.1 Disabled Task
Check this box to disable the selected Task. Disabled Tasks will not be started by the Session
Manager. A disabled Task cannot be run until it is first enabled by un-checking this box.
6.1.6.4.2 Run Task on Standby
In a redundant system, there may be some Tasks that are required to be running on the Standby as
well as the Master (i.e. the Archive File Manager, OEPing etc.). Check this box to ensure that the
Task runs on the Standby as well as the Master.
6.1.6.4.3 Make Task Critical
Checking this box makes the Task critical. A critical Task is one which the Session Manager will
attempt to restart should it fail during the lifetime of a Session. Stopping the Task from the Session
Manager interface will not cause the Session Manager to attempt to restart it.
6.1.6.4.4 Number of Retries
The number of times the Session Manager will attempt to restart a failed critical Task.
6.1.6.4.5 Infinite Retries
When checked, the Session Manager will continue to attempt to start the failed critical Task until the
Task is restarted or the Session is stopped.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 62
6.1.6.4.6 Inherit Affinity from Session
When checked, the Session Manager will use the same AffinityMask value which has been set for the
Session. This is the default setting, and means that on a multi-processor computer, no particular CPU
will be designated for the Task to run on (AffinityMask=0(zero)).
6.1.6.4.7 Select CPU
Select the CPU that this Task will run on. On multi-processor computers, this list will be populated
with numbers representing the number of processors available. To designate a single CPU to run this
Task, un-check the Inherit settings from session box, and select the CPU from this list.
6.1.6.4.8 Make Task Visible
Check this box to allow the Task to run with desktop interaction (i.e. visible on the Windows desktop).
A Task may be run invisibly or visibly to give access to its interface from the Windows desktop. Uncheck this box to make the Task run as a background Task with no desktop interaction.
6.1.6.5 Dependencies Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to configure the order in which you want Tasks to start up
when the Session is started.
Session Manage
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 63
6.1.6.5.1 Session Start
This is the default setting for starting Tasks. The Session Manager will start the components of the
Session in alphabetical order as seen here.
If your Session has no dependency issues, then leave this button selected.
Session Manage
6.1.6.5.2 Start After a Named Task
If you would rather control the order which components are started when a Session begins, then
select this option. For instance, if you want to make the Database to start before anything else,
configure all other Tasks to depend on the Database being started before they are started, as shown
in the example below.
6.1.6.5.3 Dependency Task
Click on this list to select the Dependency Task for this Task. Session Manager will then ensure that
this Task starts after the dependency Task has successfully started.
6.1.6.5.4 Stop Task When Dependent Task Stops
Check this box if you want this Task to be stopped automatically when the Dependency Task stops.
6.1.6.5.5 Startup Delay
You can delay the start-up of the Task. Enter the number of seconds delay in this field. The Session
Manager will start this Task the configured number of seconds after the dependency condition has
been met e.g. Session has started or the dependency Task has started.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 64
Session Manage
6.2 Redundant Example
The first step in creating a new Standalone or Redundant Session is to select the New... option from
the Session Menu of the main Session Manager window. Click the hotspots* on the image below for
further information.
6.2.1 Add New Option
Selection of this item will open the Add New Session Wizard, giving you the option to create a brand
new Standalone or Redundant Session.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 65
Session Manage
6.2.2 SessionType Page
The Add New Session - Session Type page enables you to specify the new Session's name, whether
it will be a Standalone or Redundant Session, plus its Dataservice connection string and its Command
File directory.
6.2.2.1 Name
The name of the Session, which must be unique. When modifying a Session, this field is disabled,
and cannot be changed.
6.2.2.2 Standalone Session
When creating a new Session, click here to create a Standalone Session. A Standalone Session is a
single Server running a single OpenEnterprise database. This selection cannot be modified at a later
stage.
6.2.2.3 Redundant Session
When creating a new Session, click here to create a Redundant Session. A Redundant Session is two
Servers running a single OpenEnterprise database in Master and Standby mode. If the Maser fails,
the Standby takes over, becoming the new Master. This selection cannot be modified at a later stage.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 66
6.2.2.4 Dataservice
This is the string which identifies the database to clients and enables them to connect. It is of the
format <ServerName>:<Portname>, unless the database is running locally, when all that is required is
<Portname>..
<ServerName> can be the actual network name of the Server, but is often an alias that is entered
against the Server's IP address into the Windows Hosts file (%WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc). If it is a
remote database It enables clients to locate the Server on which the database is running.
<PortName> is an alias for a TCP/IP port that is entered into the Windows Services file
(%WinDir%\system32\drivers\etc). It enables clients to connect to the database. This is set up when
OpenEnterprise is installed with an alias of rtrdb1, and a port number of 11101.
6.2.2.5 Command File Folder
This is the folder where the special Custom Command files for redundant systems are placed. These
are the LoadingDatabase.cmd, Master.cmd and Standby.cmd files. For further information on these
files see the Custom Commands - Redundant
6.2.2.6 Browse button
topic.
Session Manage
Opens up a browse dialog, so that you can search for the required object, whether it be a directory, a
file or a tag from an OPC Server. The context determines the type of browser dialog.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 67
Session Manage
6.2.3 Session Settings Page
The only decision on this page is regarding whether to run the Session on a single CPU or all CPUs.
6.2.3.1 CPU Affinity Setting
This is a drop-down list of all the CPUs available on the Server. If a single CPU is selected, the Task
will only run on that CPU.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 68
Session Manage
6.2.4 Software Watchdog Page
This page enables you to configure the Software Watchdog for the Session.
6.2.4.1 Software Watchdog Enabled
Check this box by clicking on it to enable the Software Watchdog. If it is not enabled, the Session
Manager will not restart failed critical tasks.
6.2.4.2 Software Watchdog Frequency
The frequency, in seconds, at which the Software Watchdog will run.
6.2.5 Server Identification Page
This is the first of the extra pages that require configuration for a Redundant Session.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 69
Session Manage
6.2.5.1 This Server Label
The Label that the Session Manager associates with this computer.
6.2.5.2 This Computer Name
The actual computer name (or alias as defined in the Hosts file) of this computer. This name must be
an exact case-sensitive match with the name used in the oejcpcontrol table in the Arbitrator database
for this computer.
6.2.5.3 Other Computer Name
The actual computer name (or alias as defined in the Hosts file) of the other computer. This name
must be an exact case-sensitive match with the name used in the oejcpcontrol table in the Arbitrator
database for this computer.
6.2.5.4 Test Button
The Session Manager will test the network for a reply from the computer defined in the computer
name field to the left of the button. If there is no reply, you will be notified.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 70
6.2.5.5 Browse Network Button
A network browsing dialog will open, enabling you to identify the other Server.
Session Manage
6.2.6 Arbitrator Page
This is the second extra page requiring configuration for a Redundant Session only. It sets up the
Arbitrator Data service.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 71
Session Manage
6.2.6.1 Arbitrator Dataservice
This is the order in which the journal process within the Database looks for a connection with the
arbitrator database. Please refer to the Arbitrator Build and Configuration - Redundant
information on the Arbitrator dataservice.
6.2.6.2 Retries
Determines the number of times the Session Manager should try to find the arbitrator using the
options in the Arbitrator Dataservice field.
6.2.6.3 Retries Multiplier
This value is used with the Retries value. Session Manager will retry the connection attempt (Retries *
RetriesMultiplier) times. To speed up start-up time therefore, lower the Timeout, RetriesMultiplier and
TimeoutMultiplier values.
6.2.6.4 Timeout
Determines the amount of time the Session Manager should spend in trying to connect to the
arbitrator using each of the sources listed in the Dataservice value.
topic for more
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 72
6.2.6.5 Timeout Multiplier
This value is used with the Timeout value. Session Manager will retry the connection after (Timeout *
TimeoutMultiplier) seconds. To speed up start-up time therefore, lower the Timeout, RetriesMultiplier
and TimeoutMultiplier values.
Session Manage
6.2.7 T-Bar Page
This is the third of the extra pages requiring configuration for a Redundant OpenEnterprise system. It
configures T-Bar OPC Server, if a T-Bar is being used.
6.2.7.1 T-Bar Enabled
When checked, the T-bar is enabled. Leave unchecked if not using a T-bar.
6.2.7.2 T-Bar OPC Tag
Type the T-bar tag in here, or use the Browse button to browse for the required tag.
6.2.7.3 Browse button
Opens up a browse dialog, so that you can search for the required object, whether it be a directory, a
file or a tag from an OPC Server. The context determines the type of browser dialog.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 73
Session Manage
6.2.8 Tasks Page
This page enables you to configure the Tasks you require for the Session. The main difference
between configuring a Standalone and Redundant Session comes when you add the Database Task.
Also some of the other Tasks may need extra settings when being configured for a Redundant
Session.
6.2.8.1 Task List
Configured Tasks are listed here. They can be modified or removed by selecting the Task followed by
the appropriate button.
6.2.8.2 Add button
This button opens up the Task Properties Dialog at the Task Page
6.2.8.3 Remove button
The selected Task will be deleted from the list, and will no longer be a part of the Session being
configured.
6.2.8.4 Modify button
This button opens up the Task Properties Dialog at the Task Page
. The Page will be in Wizard mode
. The Page will be in Modify mode
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 74
Session Manage
6.2.9 Task Configuration
New Tasks can be added to a Session by selecting the Session>Add Task option from the Session
Manager's mennu bar.
Individual Tasks that are part of a Session can be modified from the Task List Pane
Task and selecting the Properties option from the Context Menu. This opens the Task Properties
Dialog with the five Property Pages available for configuring the Task. To be able to configure a Task
in this way, the Task must be stopped first.
• Task Page
• Shutdown Page
• Advanced Shutdown Page
• Settings Page
• Dependencies Page
6.2.9.1 Task Page
In Modify Mode, the Task Property Page enables you to configure the session name and file name of
an OpenEnterprise Task, it's working directory, and the arguments that must be passed to it when it
starts.
by clicking on the
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 75
Session Manage
6.2.9.1.1 Task Name
This is the name of the Task as it will appear in the Session Manager's Task List. It can be made to
be more descriptive than the file name of the Task. Spaces are allowed
6.2.9.1.2 Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file using the
[Browse...] button.
6.2.9.1.3 Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
6.2.9.1.4 Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Task at start-up. To see what arguments are
available for each Task, please refer to it's own Help File. These can be accessed from the Server
Specific Help page found in the main OpenEnterprise Help file. This can be opened by selecting:-
Start>Program Files>OpenEnterprise>Documentation
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 76
6.2.9.1.4.1 The Database Task and Persistence
The Task Program Arguments for the Database Task are worth and extra mention here, because they
determine whether or not the Database will be configured to be persistent. When the Database is set
to be persistent, it uses a data file with a .MMF extension, rather than a .DAT extension (the MMF
stands for Memory Mapped File). The example here shows the Database Task configured for
persistence with the program arguments set to:-
-m"realtime.mmf" -s51435559 db > db.txt
For a more detailed explanation of this program argument, and how it affects the Database Task,
please see the Configuring Persistence
6.2.9.1.5 Database Ready Port
The UDP port number or name used by the database to inform the Session that the database is ready
to accept client connections. Only applicable to database Tasks (rtrdb.exe).
6.2.9.1.6 OK Button
Saves any changes and closes the Properties dialog currently open.
andSizing the MMF File topics.
Session Manage
6.2.9.1.7 Apply Button
Saves any changes and keeps the current Properties dialog open.
6.2.9.2 Shutdown Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to select the most appropriate way of shutting down the
selected Task. These options include the option to use a separate executable to shut the Task down.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 77
Session Manage
6.2.9.2.1 Shutdown Type
This is a drop-down list of four different methods which may be used to close a Task. They are listed
below, with an explanation of each:-
• Close - Shuts down the task cleanly using a Windows close message.
• Kill - Kills the Task in the same way that tasks are killed in the Windows Task Manager.
• Nothing - No Shutdown action is performed. Used for Tasks that handle their own shutdown
criteria. This can be used on redundant systems with Tasks that would normally close
themselves anyway when the database is stopped, such as a Remote Device Interface (eg
RDI3000).
• Run a Shutdown Task - Run a separate program to close the Task. When this option is
selected, the fields in the Shutdown Task section become enabled. For instance, the
ShutdownDB.exe should be used when closing a Standalone database because
ShutdownDB automatically saves the database before closing it down. The ShutdownDB
application can be found in the ....OpenEnterprise\bin directory.
6.2.9.2.2 Shutdown Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Shutdown Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file
using the [Browse...] button .
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 78
6.2.9.2.3 Shutdown Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
6.2.9.2.4 Shutdown Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Shutdown Task at start-up. To see what
arguments are available for this application, please refer to the Configuring the Database Shutdown
Task topic.
6.2.9.2.5 Advanced Shutdown Button
This button opens the Advanced Shutdown Page. This is for use with OpenEnterprise systems that
are using redundant servers. It allows you to configure a special Shutdown procedure for when a
redundant system is running with a Master server only.
6.2.9.3 Advanced Shutdown Page
This Page enables you to control the way a Task closes when you are running redundant Servers and
you only have the Master running. It is important that you do this, because the normal method for
closing the database when running redundant servers (the Windows WM_CLOSE method) does not
save the database. Therefore, when running a redundant system with a Master only you run the risk
of losing data if the ShutdownDB program is not used to stop the database. You can set a time period
for the ShutdownDB Task itself to exit, after which it may be killed.
Session Manage
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 79
6.2.9.3.1 Shutdown Task File Name
This is the absolute filename of the Shutdown Task. Enter the absolute filename or browse for the file
using the [Browse...] button .
6.2.9.3.2 Shutdown Task Working Directory
The directory in which the Task will run. If you do not specify a directory, the Task will run in the
Working Directory of the Session. Most Server Tasks output a log file, which is placed by default in
the same directory in which it's executable resides. This Working Directory can be changed here, so
that any outputted files are placed in a different location.
6.2.9.3.3 Shutdown Task Program Arguments
The command line arguments you want to pass to the Shutdown Task at start-up. To see what
arguments are available for this application, please refer to the Configuring the Database Shutdown
Task topic.
6.2.9.3.4 Shutdown Timeout
A time, in seconds, which the Session Manager will wait for the application to exit.
Session Manage
6.2.9.3.5 Kill Task
Select this if you want the Session Manager to attempt to kill the Task after the Shutdown Timeout
has expired.
6.2.9.4 Settings Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to configure other factors which control the way the Task is
run, for instance it's behaviour, criticality, process affinity and whether or not it should be visible.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 80
Session Manage
6.2.9.4.1 Disabled Task
Check this box to disable the selected Task. Disabled Tasks will not be started by the Session
Manager. A disabled Task cannot be run until it is first enabled by un-checking this box.
6.2.9.4.2 Run Task on Standby
In a redundant system, there may be some Tasks that are required to be running on the Standby as
well as the Master (i.e. the Archive File Manager, OEPing etc.). Check this box to ensure that the
Task runs on the Standby as well as the Master.
6.2.9.4.3 Make Task Critical
Checking this box makes the Task critical. A critical Task is one which the Session Manager will
attempt to restart should it fail during the lifetime of a Session. Stopping the Task from the Session
Manager interface will not cause the Session Manager to attempt to restart it.
6.2.9.4.4 Number of Retries
The number of times the Session Manager will attempt to restart a failed critical Task.
6.2.9.4.5 Infinite Retries
When checked, the Session Manager will continue to attempt to start the failed critical Task until the
Task is restarted or the Session is stopped.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 81
6.2.9.4.6 Inherit Affinity from Session
When checked, the Session Manager will use the same AffinityMask value which has been set for the
Session. This is the default setting, and means that on a multi-processor computer, no particular CPU
will be designated for the Task to run on (AffinityMask=0(zero)).
6.2.9.4.7 Select CPU
Select the CPU that this Task will run on. On multi-processor computers, this list will be populated
with numbers representing the number of processors available. To designate a single CPU to run this
Task, un-check the Inherit settings from session box, and select the CPU from this list.
6.2.9.4.8 Make Task Visible
Check this box to allow the Task to run with desktop interaction (i.e. visible on the Windows desktop).
A Task may be run invisibly or visibly to give access to its interface from the Windows desktop. Uncheck this box to make the Task run as a background Task with no desktop interaction.
6.2.9.5 Dependencies Page
In Modify Mode, this Page enables you to configure the order in which you want Tasks to start up
when the Session is started.
Session Manage
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 82
6.2.9.5.1 Session Start
This is the default setting for starting Tasks. The Session Manager will start the components of the
Session in alphabetical order as seen here.
If your Session has no dependency issues, then leave this button selected.
Session Manage
6.2.9.5.2 Start After a Named Task
If you would rather control the order which components are started when a Session begins, then
select this option. For instance, if you want to make the Database to start before anything else,
configure all other Tasks to depend on the Database being started before they are started, as shown
in the example below.
6.2.9.5.3 Dependency Task
Click on this list to select the Dependency Task for this Task. Session Manager will then ensure that
this Task starts after the dependency Task has successfully started.
6.2.9.5.4 Stop Task When Dependent Task Stops
Check this box if you want this Task to be stopped automatically when the Dependency Task stops.
6.2.9.5.5 Startup Delay
You can delay the start-up of the Task. Enter the number of seconds delay in this field. The Session
Manager will start this Task the configured number of seconds after the dependency condition has
been met e.g. Session has started or the dependency Task has started.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 83
Session Manage
7 Administrator Overview
A pre-condition for creating an OpenEnterprise Session is that the OpenEnterprise Database has
already been built and configured properly. This section provides an overview for Administrative users
who have overall responsibility for building the OpenEnterprise Database ready for Session
configuration. An OpenEnterprise Session consists of the Database plus a number of ancillary Tasks
managed by the Session Manager. The most important Task of any OpenEnterprise Session is the
Database, since all other Tasks only function properly when they are connected to and
communicating with it.
Whereas the other Tasks only need to be told how to connect to the Database in order to run as a
Task, the OpenEnterprise Database needs to be first built and populated with data before it can be
run as a Task within a Session. Therefore, configuration of an OpenEnterprise Session must be done
in two stages: -
• Database build and configuration
• Session configuration
There are two main types of OpenEnterprise Server configuration: -
• Standalone - This comprises one Database running on one Server.
• Fault Tolerant
Active Master and a warm Standby Server. Fault Tolerant Servers require extra Database
and Session configuration.
- This configuration comprises one Database running on two Servers with an
7.1 Database Configuration
Before you can create an OpenEnterprise Session, you have to build the OpenEnterprise Database.
This can either be done by a Wizard, using the Database Project Builder, or by using a combination of
SQL Scripts provided by OpenEnterprise and your own project specific Scripts. These are then
applied to the Database using the SQL Client.
7.1.1 Database Build
When first installed, the OpenEnterprise Database only has the most basic of tables in it, and contains
no project specific data. However, for a real OpenEnterprise project, the tables necessary for
OpenEnterprise to work properly have to be created. Then the database has to be populated with the
data that the actual project requires. This includes time zone information, field devices, device
drivers, signal data, historical logging configuration and more. The Database can be built using the
Database Project Builder
the NW3000 Database Builder (DBB) and Poll List Builder (TPB) to insert the signal data.
The Database Build can be performed automatically, using the Database Project Builder
wizard, or can be built as it were manually, using the SQL Client and using
(DPB).
The DPB utilizes other OpenEnterprise components (namely, NW3000 Database Builder and
NW3000 Poll List Builder) to insert the signals from Bristol-Babcock RTUs into the Database.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 84
7.1.1.2 Manual Build - SQL Scripts and Toolbox
The Database Build can also be achieved by using the SQL Client to utilize pre-configured SQL
Scripts. See the Manual Database Build
topics.
Session Manage
7.1.2 Start-up Configuration File
When the Database starts, it refers to a configuration file. This resource file is named Poly.cfg. It
resides in the database's working directory. The Poly.cfg
sufficient for most Standalone configurations.
Master and Standby Servers of a Redundant system, however, need to have different settings for the
Fault Tolerant module
of the Poly.cfg file (the ft module).
file which comes with OpenEnterprise is
7.1.3 Manual Database Build
When building a typical NW3000 OpenEnterprise database from scratch, the build can be split into six
main sections: Click on the headings below for an explanation of each step.
1. Loading the table schema definitions;
3. DBB;
5. TPB;
6. Save database contents
Note: DBB is the Network 3000 database builder, TPB is the Network 3000 template (poll list) builder.
7.1.3.1 Loading the Table Schema Definitions
Start an Empty Database using the installed short cut in the OpenEnterprise Empty Database
program group. Then start an SQL session using the installed short cut in the OpenEnterprise Empty
Database program group. The initial script is called 'alltables.sql' and it calls other scripts to build the
OpenEnterprise Database. It is provided by OpenEnterprise ready for you to use.
1. SQL> include ‘alltables’;
2. SQL> shutdown;
3. Now copy the contents of the OpenEnterprise\Database\Schema folder to the
OpenEnterprise\Data folder, or any other data directory that you intend to run the Database
from (the Working Directory). If you do change the Database Working Directory, you will have
to change the Working Directory of the shortcuts to the Database and SQL client off the
Start>Programs>OpenEnterprise>Database menu.
7.1.3.2 Pre-DBB
This next section uses a combination of SQL Script files provided by OpenEnterprise, plus some that
you have to prepare yourself for the specific project in hand. Those which you have to prepare
yourself start with the word 'custom'. Start a Database using the installed short cut in the
OpenEnterprise Database program group. Then start an SQL session using the installed short cut in
the OpenEnterprise Database program group.
1. SQL> include ‘defaultload’; (Includes mandatory OpenEnterprise database settings:)
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 85
2. SQL> include ‘nw3000def’; (Includes the network3000 driver:)
3. SQL> include ‘GMT’; (Includes the time zone file appropriate to your locale. A number of different SQL script files are installed for your use.)
4. SQL> include ‘custom_nw3000def’; (Customise the behaviour of the nw3000 driver. Modifies values in the nw3000driver table.)
5. SQL> include ‘custom_schedules’; (Includes the network3000 timeclass definitions. Inserts entries into the dvi_schedule table.)
6. SQL> include ‘custom_alarmpriorities’; (Customise the default alarm priorities for network3000. Priorities 0, 1, 2 and 3. Modifies entries in the alarmpriorityblock table.)
7. SQL> include ‘custom_historical’; (Include your historical configuration.)
8. SQL> include ‘custom_views’; (Define your specific view requirements.)
9. SQL> include ‘custom_security’; (Include your specific security requirements.)
It is recommended that when the custom files have been created and load correctly, the above SQL
statements are included in a single SQL file called custom_project.sql. The following is an example
custom_project.sql file.
Session Manage
-- Filename: custom_project.sql--
-- Description: Include this file before running DBB
-- Include mandatory OpenEnterprise database settings.
Include ‘defaultload’;
-- Include the network3000 driver.
include ‘nw3000def’;
-- Include the time zone file appropriate to your locale.
include ‘GMT’;
-- Customise the behaviour of the nw3000 driver.
include ‘custom_nw3000def’;
-- Include the network3000 timeclass definitions.
include ‘custom_schedules’;
-- Customise the default alarm priorities for network3000.
include ‘custom_alarmpriorities’;
-- Include your historical configuration.
include ‘custom_historical’;
-- Define your specific view requirements.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 86
include ‘custom_views’;
-- Include your specific security requirements.
include ‘custom_security’;
Then, this build step will just be: SQL> include ‘custom_project’;
7.1.3.3 DBB
Start the Database Builder using the short cut in the OpenEnterprise Network 3000 program group.
Select Build All from the Database Builder dialog. This should now populate the database with signals
for all NW3000 devices configured within OpenBSI.
7.1.3.4 Post DBB
Set the window focus on the SQL Client window that should still be running and type the following
SQL statements (not the text in italics). These scripts are all to be prepared by you for the specific
needs of the project in hand.
1. SQL> include ‘custom_deviceschedules’; (Assign nw3000 devices to timeclasses. Modify nw3000device timeclass values)
Session Manage
2. SQL> include ‘custom_signaldescriptors’; (Define signal descriptors. Modify
nw3000realanalog and nw3000digital descriptions)
3. SQL> include ‘custom_signalschedules’; (Define any specific network3000 timeclass
requirements. Modify nw3000realanalog and nw3000digital timeclass values.)
4. SQL> include ‘custom_signaldataset’; (Define signal historical database mapping. Modify
nw3000realanalog and nw3000digital dataset values.)
It is recommended that when the custom files have been created and load correctly, the above SQL
statements are included in a single SQL file called custom_postdbb.sql. The following is an example
custom_postdbb.sql file.
-- Filename: custom_postdbb.sql--
-- Description: include after running DBB
-- Define signal descriptors
include ‘custom_signaldescriptors’;
-- Assign nw3000 devices to timeclasses
include ‘custom_deviceschedules’;
-- Define any specific network3000 timeclass requirements.
include ‘custom_signalschedules’;
-- Define signal historical database mapping.
include ‘custom_signaldataset’;
Then, this build step will just be: SQL> include ‘custom_postdbb’;
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 87
7.1.3.5 TPB
Start the Poll List Builder using the short cut in the OpenEnterprise Network 3000 program group.
Select Build All from the Poll List Builder dialog. This should now build templates (poll lists) for all
Network3000 signals and devices.
7.1.3.6 Save Database Contents
Set the window focus on the SQL Client window that should still be running, and type.
SQL> save into ‘realtime.dat’;
The OpenEnterprise database is now ready for customisation, if so required.
Session Manage
7.2 General Database Configuration
The Poly.cfg file is a database resource and configuration file used by the RTRDB (RealTime
Relational DataBase). It is located by default in the C:\Program Files\Bristol\OpenEnterprise\Data directory. The example Poly.cfg file that is installed
with OpenEnterprise should be sufficient for most Standalone systems without any changes being
required.
There are three things it is helpful to know of when dealing with the Poly.cfg file.
• Modules and Resources
• Naming Data Services
• Main Database Resources
7.2.1 Data Services
Data Services are TCP/IP port addresses, from which the database offers clients a means of
connection.
7.2.1.1.1 Server
The server (database), to uniquely identify the service offered by the database, uses data
services. In the Poly.cfg file, all database data services are local to the host. Hence they it is in
the following format:
7.2.1.1.2 data_service=<service>
e.g. rtrdb1
where the string "rtrdb1" will be resolved into a port number using the Windows Services file.
7.2.1.1.3 Client
Clients are applications that use data services to specify the database (or databases) they wish
to connect to. A single client data service can name multiple database data services but the
client can only connect to a single database.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 88
There are several types of data service that a client can use depending on whether they are
connecting to a standalone or redundant database.
7.2.1.1.4 Standalone
When connecting to a standalone database the client need only specify a single data service. If
the database is on a remote host the client will need to specify the remote host and the
database data service offered on that host.
7.2.1.1.5 <hostname>:<service>
e.g.
rtrdb1 will connect to the local database rtrdb1.
hosta:rtrdb1 will connect to the remote database on hosta.
7.2.1.1.6 Redundant
When connecting to a redundant data database the client needs to specify both database data
services and additional options as to whether the client wishes a standby connection. If no
additional options are provided then the client will always connect to the active database.
hosta:rtrdb1,hostb:rtrdb1 ...will connect to the active database.
hosta:rtrdb1,hostb:rtrdb1[ro] ...will connect to the standby in preference.
hosta:rtrdb1,hostb:rtrdb1[standby] ...will connect to a standby only.
7.2.2 Modules and Resources
The Poly.cfg file is a database resource and configuration file used by the RTRDB (RealTime
Relational DataBase). It resides in the RTRDB's designated working directory (by default the
C:\Program Files\Bristol\OpenEnterprise\Data Data directory).
The file combines resources set within named modules to provide the Database with configuration
parameters based on the module name passed to it when it is invoked. This enables the rtrdb.exe
database to be run with a range of configuration parameters.
For instance, the Start>Programs>OpenEnterprise>Empty Database>Database link is set up to open
the rtrdb.exe in the default Data directory, with a resource module of emptydb. This means the
rtrdb.exe will start up, then look in the provided Start In: directory for a file named Poly.cfg. It will then
look in that file for a resource module named emptydb. Then it will apply any resources it finds in that
module to itself. The emptydb module contains no 'load_file' resource, so the rtrdb1 starts with an
empty database.
The Poly.cfg file is similar to a Windows .ini file, but the module names are completely arbitrary.
Resource modules are created in the Poly.cfg file by naming the module followed by a colon. For
example, a module called Dataservice, containing resources for the RTRDB is created like this: -
DataService:
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 89
data_service = rtrdb1
default_user = SYSTEM
default_access_area = ALL
default_plant_area = ALL
Often used modules can be copied to other modules by using the name of the assigned module
immediately after the colon. The module named db in the following example will have all of the
resources of the DataService module assigned to it as well as its own resources: -
db:dataservice
type = rtrdb
suppress_building_dvi_tables = true
enable_gdi = Yes
dvi_nulls_allowed = true
Session Manage
For more detail on the Poly.cfg file click here for Standalone
, click here for Redundant .
7.2.3 Database Resources
The resources below can be added to the DB: section of the Poly.cfg file as resources for the
database.
7.2.3.1 dvi_register_datum_with_values
Controls whether datum (signal) are registered with their RDI with or without initial values for
monitored columns.Default value: FALSE. Recommended value: TRUE
7.2.3.2 dvi_triggers_on
Controls whether the DVI places triggers on monitored columns. If set to FALSE then the DVI will not
set triggers on monitored columns and it will be up to the application to set the forcewrite
boolean.Default value: TRUE. Recommended value: FALSE.
7.2.3.3 load_file
The name of the disk based database load file that is read by the database at start-up. This load file
contains a disk based copy of the database.Default value: none. Recommended value: realtime.dat.
7.2.3.4 ft_enable
Enables fault tolerant database to database connectivity. Set to TRUE to enable fault tolerant
database to database connectivity. Currently only used for redundancy Arbitrator functionality.Default
value: FALSE. Recommended value: TRUE for redundant systems, otherwise FALSE.
7.2.3.5 ft_heartbeat_interval
When using fault tolerant database to database communications, once every ft_heartbeat_interval
milliseconds, the database sends a heartbeat request to the connected database. A heartbeat
response is expected within ft_heartbeat_timeout milliseconds.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 90
7.2.3.6 ft_heartbeat_timeout
See "ft_heartbeat_interval" section.
7.2.3.7 journal_heap_increment
The number of bytes by which the journal buffer grows when it becomes full. Default value: 256.
Recommended value: 1000000.
7.2.3.8 oe_active_alarmsummary_value
When set to TRUE the AlarmSummary table is automatically updated with the latest signal values
sourced from external devices. Currently only supported for nw3000 devices. Default value: FALSE.
Recommended value: system dependent.
7.2.3.9 enable_object_locking
When set to TRUE certain configuration object attributes can be locked for exclusive update when
using ToolBox.Default value: FALSE. Recommended value: system dependent.
7.2.3.10 patdbg_timestamp
Session Manage
Enables the output of timestamps for all JCP status messages.Default value: FALSE. Recommended
value: TRUE.
7.2.3.11 cl_library
The list of one or more CL files loaded at database start-up. The CL files define the database
methods.
7.2.3.12 suppress_log
Controls whether the Historian component is enabled or not. Set to TRUE to disable the Historian.
Note that the product CL will fail to load if this resource is set to TRUE.Default value: FALSE.
Recommended value: FALSE.
7.2.3.13 sql_privilege_cache_size
The security system stores all its privilege information in database tables. To improve performance it
caches these privileges, on a per user basis, in a form that is much quicker to check (bitmaps). The
sql_privilege_cache_size specifies the size of the cache in terms of how many users privileges are
cached. The default is 1. This means that every time the privileges for a different user is checked the
current cache of privileges is dropped and a new set loaded.e.g. If the resource is set to 20 it will store
all privileges for all tables for the last 20 users that have accessed the database.Default value: 1
Recommended value: <number of users defined in database>.
7.2.3.14 quiet
When set to TRUE no output will be sent to the RTRDB window. Note that all output will continue to
go to standard output, if configured (db.txt). Default value: FALSE. Recommended value: TRUE
7.2.3.15 data_service
The data service offered by the database. Any host name mentioned is ignored as all services are
offered locally. Default value: none. Recommended value: system dependent.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 91
7.2.3.16 default_user
The user whose privileges comprise the base privileges for all clients that have not explicitly logged
onto the database.Default value: noneRecommended value: SYSTEM if not using security, otherwise
PUBLIC.
7.2.3.17 default_access_area
The access area assigned to objects created in the database if no access area is explicitly named.
Default value: none. Recommended value: ALL.
7.2.3.18 default_plant_area
The plant area assigned to objects created in the database if no plant area is explicitly named.Default
value: none. Recommended value: ALL.
7.2.3.19 type
The component type. Mandatory - must be set to the correct resource type for the module - in this
case, "rtrdb".
7.2.3.20 suppress_building_dvi_tables
Session Manage
Controls whether the RTRDB builds the standard DVI tables. Within OE, the DVI tables must be
created by the application. Default value: FALSE. Recommended value: TRUE.
7.2.3.21 enable_gdi
Obsolete.
7.2.3.22 oe_journal_per_connection
When set to FALSE journal messages for client connections, logons, logoffs and disconnections are
only journalled on a per host basis. When set to TRUE they are journalled on a per client connection
basis.Default value: TRUE. Recommended value: TRUE.
7.2.3.23 suppress_dvi
Controls whether the internal DVI component is enabled or not. The DVI component is used for all
RDIs.Default value: FALSE. Recommended value: FALSE.
7.2.3.24 suppress_cl
Controls whether the CL component is enabled or not. Set to TRUE will prevent any CL from
running.Default value: FALSE. Recommended value: FALSE.
7.2.3.25 log_dst_adjusted
When set to TRUE, this resource causes the oelogdata.compressionoffset attribute to be treated as a
local time (DST adjusted) rather than as UTC.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 92
Session Manage
7.3 Configuring a Standalone Session
A Standalone Session consists of a single Database and ancillary Tasks running on a single Server.
To create a Standalone Session you only need to follow the instructions on the following pages:-
1. Database Build and Configuration
2. Session Configuration
3. Custom Commands
7.3.1 Session Configuration
7.3.1.1 New Session
This menu option opens the Add New Session wizard
OpenEnterprise Session. It is only available when no Session is opened in the Session Manager.
7.3.1.2 Configuring Persistence
OpenEnterprise has the ability to run a persistent database. This is primarily designed to protect the
database contents against system or software failures.
7.3.1.2.1.1 What is Persistence?
Persistence allows database contents to be recovered from a disk file. Recovery will occur in the
event of a database failure or database closure that did not result in a realtime.dat update.
7.3.1.2.1.2 What Data is Persistent?
Both realtime data and historical online buffers are persistent data. All data in all tables is persistent,
even tables and attributes that are configured as transient. The database schema is also persistent.
7.3.1.3 Sizing the MMF File
There is currently no formula for sizing the MMF file. The best advice is to create the database with no
persistence. Then enable persistence starting with -s10000000. If this is too small a value then the
database will terminate, probably at start-up, with an 'Out of Memory' error in db.txt. Keep increasing
the MMF size until the database loads successfully. At this stage there should be an MMF file only
just large enough. If system resources allow the MMF file should now be at least doubled to allow for
database expansion.
that enables you to configure a whole new
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 93
7.3.1.4 Task Configuration
The Session Manager enables users to modify existing Sessions by adding, deleting or modifying
individual Tasks within a Session on the fly. This is done from the Session Menu's Add Task
which opens the Add Task Wizard. This runs the user through the process of creating a new Task.
Once a Task is added in this way, it will automatically be saved.
Session Manage
option,
To modify existing Tasks, use the Properties option on the Task's context menu
Property Pages
stopped to do this.
Session Configuration
7.3.1.5 Redirect Session Properties
Type topic text here.
7.3.1.6 Session Properties
, and perform the changes whilst the Session is running. The Task itself needs to be
to access it's
This option opens the Modify Session property pages
enabled until a session has been opened by selecting the Open... option from the Session menu.
for the currently opened session. It is not
7.3.2 Custom Commands - Standalone
The Session Manager will attempt to run custom windows command files upon certain state changes
and critical events. The System Administrator can optionally use these files to invoke custom actions
e.g. Send an Alert message when a critical process fails. The Session Manager will expect these files
to exist in the default-working directory for the session.
Two general command files are called when the session is started and stopped, StartOE.cmd and
StopOE.cmd respectively. Neither takes any input parameters.
For example, the following StopOE.cmd file is used to copy the database output files. This can be
useful when diagnosing problems.
REM StopOE.cmd
Copy db.txt db.old.txt
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 94
Two further command files can be used for critical process failures and restarts. When a critical
process fails, the TaskFail.cmd file is invoked. When the failed process is successfully restarted,
TaskStart.cmd is called. Both command files are passed a single command line parameter that is the
name of the task that failed.
The following example shows how TaskFail.cmd can be used to broadcast a message to computer
name WS1 when a critical process fails. It also shows a check for the database failing so the
database output file can be saved for later diagnosis.
REM TaskFail.cmd
if "%1"=="database" goto DATABASE
goto ALERT
:DATABASE
REM save the database output file as it may contain something useful
copy db.txt db.old.txt
goto ALERT
:ALERT
net send WS1 OpenEnterprise Critical Process Failure: %1
Session Manage
7.4 Configuring a Redundant Session
A Fault Tolerant or Redundant configuration consists of a single Database which is run on two
Servers - one is the Active or Master Server, and the other is a hot Standby. A Redundant Server
configuration requires extra Database and Session configuration. The extra configuration (over and
above that required for a Standalone application) is as follows.
7.4.1 Redundant Database Build
The main and Arbitrator Databases can be built on the Master Server and copied directly over
(including Log Files and any Archives created) to the Standby Server with no changes.
7.4.2 Hosts File
Fault Tolerant Servers need to have their Hosts files set up so that they can locate each other over
the Local Area Network.
A Fault Tolerant set-up requires extra elements of the Database Configuration file (Poly.cfg) to be
correctly configured. These include the Journal Service for the local and other Server, and the
Arbitrator Service for the local and other Server.
7.4.4 Arbitrator Database
A Fault Tolerant database requires the Arbitrator database to be configured and run as part of the
Session also. This is a completely separate database that runs alongside the main Database on the
Master Server. It functions as a software arbitrator between the two Servers. It must be configured
currently using the SQL Client and SQL scripts
.
7.4.5 Extra and Distinct Session Settings
In a Fault Tolerant system, each Server has to have extra Session settings, as well as slightly
different Session settings
on each Server.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 95
Session Manage
7.4.6 Other Configuration Decisions
Persistence and Custom Commands are set up in the same way for Fault Tolerant Sessions as
Standalone Sessions: -
• Persistence
• Custom Commands
7.4.7 Windows Hosts File - Redundant
It is essential to configure the Windows Hosts file correctly for a Redundant session. The Hosts file is
found in the C:\Winnt\System32\drivers\etc folder. It can be opened using Notepad or Wordpad and
edited. It must be saved with no extension. OpenEnterprise Servers can be configured to have both a
Client/Server network address and a separate dedicated JCP network address. This can only be
done if two network cards are fitted to each Server.
7.4.7.1.1 Hosts File for a Dedicated JCP Network
Here is an example Hosts file fragment for a Redundant session which uses a separate network,
dedicated to redundancy traffic (the JCP Network). The essential components have been labelled:
As shown, the IP addresses of each Server must be followed by the designated Server names. There
are separate IP addresses for the JCP network and the SCADA network.
7.4.7.1.2 Hosts File for a Redundant Setup not using a Dedicated JCP Network
Here is a sample Hosts file for an OpenEnterprise Session that is not using a dedicated JCP Network:
-
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 96
In the above example, the Server and JCP host names are assigned to the same (SCADA) network
IP address, because only there is only one network card per Server.
In a Redundant Session, the Database is controlled by the Journal Control Process (JCP), and is not
started directly by the Session Manager. The JCP knows whether it is running in Master or Standby
mode because it connects first to another database - the Arbitrator. This means that for a Redundant
Session database resources must be provided for the JCP process.
7.4.8.1 Fault Tolerance Resources
Database (RTRDB) resources should be set up as for a Standalone session except that fault
tolerance resources should be set.
7.4.9 Journal Process Resources
The Journal Process, or Journal Control Process (JCP) keeps the Standby Database in step with the
Master. It used to be a separate process, but it is now actually a part of the Database process.
However, the Journal Control Process (JCP) still requires its own resources. These must be
configured correctly in the Poly.cfg file.
7.4.9.1 The FT Module
JCP resources should be included under the FT: module. The FT: module is named so in the
provided Poly.cfg file because the initials stand for Fault Tolerant, but modules can have any name.
The Poly.cfg file is not as rigid in naming of resources as is a standard Windows .INI file.
When starting up, the Journal process (JCP) attempts to link to the live Arbitrator database to
determine whether it is in Master or Standby mode. Since the Arbitrator could be running locally or on
the other Server, the JCP process must look both locally and on the other machine for the Arbitrator
database.
7.4.9.2 Finding the Arbitrator Database
Arbitrator resources consist of the possible TCP/IP addresses of the Arbitrator, and the order in which
the JCP should search for it. This is in the form
If no Arbitrator database is detected, a local instance is started. Once the Arbitrator has been located,
the current Server is aware whether it is running as Master or Standby.
7.4.9.3 Communication with the Other JCP
The Journal process is also responsible for keeping the Standby database up to date with the Master
database, so it needs resources to tell it how to communicate with the Journal process on the other
Server. This takes the form other_journal_service = hostb:jcp1.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 97
Session Manage
7.4.10 Custom State Commands - Redundant
Although a redundant system has special Custom Commands, the Custom Commands specified for
standalone systems are also valid. The special Custom Command files for redundant systems are
the LoadingDatabase.cmd, Master.cmd and Standby.cmd files. The latter two files have no input
parameters but LoadingDatabase.cmd is passed the state of the loading database, either STANDBY
or MASTER.
Note: When running a persistent redundant system, LoadingDatabase.cmd must be used to delete
the memory-mapped file when a session is starting as standby.
The following example shows the recommended use of LoadingDatabase.cmd within a redundant,
persistent environment. It also demonstrates how the input argument can be used.
REM LoadingDatabase.cmd
if "%1"=="STANDBY" goto STANDBY
goto DONE
:STANDBY
del realtime.mmf
:DONE
7.4.11 Redundant Session Configuration
When configuring a Redundant Session, there are extra factors to be configured for the Session.
These are catered for by the introduction of extra configuration pages for Redundant Sessions. They
are:-
7.4.11.1 Extra Session Settings
1. The Server Identification Page
2. The Arbitrator Page
3. The T-Bar Page
7.4.11.2 Extra Task Settings
For a Redundant Session, the Database needs extra configuration, particularly with regard to the way
the Database closes:-
• Advanced Shutdown Page
7.4.12 Arbitrator Build and Configuration
The Arbitrator is a mandatory component within a Redundant OpenEnterprise Session. It is not
required for a Standalone session. The Arbitrator is a special database that is used to decide which
server should be the Master and which should be the Standby. At any one time only one arbitrator will
be running on the Master Standby pair. Typically it will be running on the Master.
In order to configure an Arbitrator first start an empty arbitrator database by clicking on the Windows
Start button and selecting: -
Note: The names used must match the journal_service name specified in poly.cfg and they are case
sensitive. They should also match the host name values specified on the FaultTolerance key within
the Settings Editor - (ThisHostName and OtherHostName).
Once satisfied with the edits the file must be saved to a different filename, keeping the SQL
extension. The following assumes the file is called myarbitrator.sql.
Then start an SQL session to the arbitrator using the provided Arbitrator SQL shortcut.
At the SQL prompt type:-
SQL> include 'myarbitrator';
SQL> save into 'arbitrator.dat';
SQL> shutdown;
The user can optionally modify the:-
1. heatbeat_interval
2. heartbeat_timeout
3. startup_timeout values.
Remote Automation Solutions
Website: www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote
Reference Guide
r
D5092
11-Dec-2007 - Page 99
Adjust these values according to the application's requirements.
7.4.12.1 Monitoring a redundant session
The Session Manager will monitor and make available the status of both redundant servers. This
state information is displayed in the Session Managers Status Bar and also written to the Redundancy
table within the realtime database.
7.4.12.2 Arbitrator Heartbeat Interval
This determines how often the journal process will send a heartbeat to the arbitrator. It is
recommended that this value should be at least a factor of three times less than the
heartbeat_timeout value.e.g. SECONDS(30)
7.4.12.3 Arbitrator Heartbeat Timeout
If a heartbeat is not received within Heartbeat_timeout seconds then the session is deemed to have
failed and will be shutdown.Increasing this value will make the system less sensitive to errors
occurring but failover times will be longer given a critical failure on the master.It is recommended that
this value should be at least a factor of three times greater than the heartbeat_interval.e.g. 90
7.4.12.4 Arbitrator Startup Timeout
Session Manage
This value should be set to a count of seconds that corresponds to the amount of time it takes the
system, from start-up to reach its idle state. Any errors heartbeat time-outs occurring within this period
will be ignored.e.g. 12