Problem Statement

What is the procedure to configure controller(s) for data collection in Aspen Watch Maker?
 

Solution

The procedure is different for controllers deployed through the legacy ACO base platform (using CCF & MDL or MDL3 file) and the new RTE platform (DMC3 Builder).

ACO base platform (CCF + MDL/3)

1. Before proceeding to add a controller to Aspen Watch, please make sure that the controller is loaded and running on the online server.

2. Copy the CCF and MDL file from the APC Online server and paste it in C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\APC\Performance Monitor\app\<controller_name> folder located in the AW Server.

3. Start Aspen Watch Maker by going to Start | Programs | AspenTech | Aspen Manufacturing Suite | APC Performance Monitor | Aspen Watch Maker from the Windows start menu

4. In AW Maker, you can add controller(s) by click on Actions | Add

5. Click on the Browse button next to CCF Path and File Name, navigate to C:\ProgramData\AspenTech\APC\Performance Monitor\app\<controller_name> and select the .ccf file. Once the .ccf file is entered, controller name will be added by default.

6. Select any of the available collection tasks (TSK_AW0n).

7. Select the appropriate IODMCP as the Cimio logical device name.

8. Select any of the available KPI Libraries. Users may create their own custom KPI libraries to use with controller. Click OK to configure the controller and then again to start data collection.

9. A new row will be visible in AW Maker for the new controller just configure in AW. Wait until Maker indicates a Run status of Success (initially goes to Not Licensed and then to Success after couple of cycles).

10. It is also recommended to set the Auto-Update attribute from Actions drop-down menu.

RTE Platform (DMC3 Builder)
1. The controller must be deployed online first from DMC3 Builder tool. Once it is deployed, it needs to be started from DMC3 Builder tool. Wait for few minutes for the controller to run 1 cycle.

2. Open AW Maker and switch to the APC Applications option to see the new controller automatically listed in here.

3. The user will now select the controller and start data collection as illustrated in the screenshots above. 

Keywords

Aspen Watch Maker
Configure Data Collection