C135 PCS 7 (PCS7)
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AddFEM Module Compatibility and Library Upgrades in PCS 7 V9.0 SP3

AddFEM Module Compatibility and Library Upgrades in PCS 7 V9.0 SP3

When upgrading a SIMATIC PCS 7 installation to V9.0 SP3 with existing AddFEM hardware (6DL3100-8AC), you can continue using the AddFEM V8.2 library blocks in the AS program without recompiling block interfaces, or upgrade to the certified AddFEM V9.0 library. Upgrading to the V9.0 library requires downloading the official AddFEM V9.0 package from Siemens Online Support, updating block types in the Master Data Library, re-running 'Generate Module Drivers', and updating WinCC graphics using the OS Project Editor to align faceplates with modern APL styling.

Table of Contents

Executive Summary

System integrators performing software updates from PCS 7 V8.2 to V9.0 SP3 on plants utilizing AddFEM front-end hardware frequently encounter ambiguity regarding whether the existing AddFEM V8.2 library blocks remain compatible or whether a mandatory V9.0 library upgrade is enforced. Running mismatched block libraries can result in compilation errors during module driver generation or corrupted faceplate displays in WinCC. This article explains the technical compatibility rules, upgrade pathways, driver generation behavior, and operational precautions for AddFEM in PCS 7 V9.0 SP3.

Architecture and Fundamental Mechanics

AddFEM Library Compatibility and Driver Generation in V9.0 SP3:

  • AS Controller Compatibility:
  • The S7-400 and CPU 410-5H controller firmware can execute compiled AddFEM V8.2 function blocks without modification because the underlying peripheral I/O addressing and PROFIBUS DP communication protocols remain identical.
  • However, mixing V8.2 AddFEM blocks with PCS 7 V9.0 Basis Library blocks can cause warnings in the CFC compiler if system structure definitions (MS Maintenance State, ST Signal Quality) diverge.
  • Module Driver Generation:
  • In PCS 7, running CFC -> Compile -> Generate Module Drivers automatically links physical hardware modules defined in HW Config to diagnostic and channel blocks.
  • The AddFEM V9.0 library includes updated XML hardware descriptions and driver rules ensuring seamless coordination with the PCS 7 V9.0 Basis Library.
  • WinCC Faceplate Considerations:
  • WinCC V7.4 / V7.5 (the OS engines in PCS 7 V9.0) require updated 64-bit script controls and modern @PCS7Typicals styles. The AddFEM V9.0 library delivers updated faceplates designed for the V9 OS environment.

Step-by-Step Implementation Procedure

Procedure to Upgrade AddFEM Library to V9.0 SP3:

  1. Backup Existing Multiproject:
    - In SIMATIC Manager, select File -> Archive -> save a complete project backup.
  2. Install AddFEM V9.0 Software on the Engineering Station:
    - Obtain the AddFEM V9.0 installer and execute Setup.exe with administrative privileges.
    - Restart the workstation.
  3. Update the Master Data Library:
    - Open the AddFEM V9.0 library in SIMATIC Manager.
    - Copy updated AddFEM blocks (AF_*) into your project's Master Data Library Blocks folder.
  4. Update Block Types in S7 Programs:
    - In the Master Data Library, select the Blocks folder -> Options -> Charts -> Update Block Types.
    - Select all S7 target programs containing AddFEM blocks; complete the update wizard.
  5. Compile CFC Charts and Generate Module Drivers:
    - Open CFC -> Chart -> Compile -> Charts as Program.
    - Ensure Generate module drivers is checked.
    - Select 'Scope: Entire program' (or 'Changes only' if interfaces did not change).
  6. Update OS Graphics and Compile OS:
    - In WinCC Explorer, run the OS Project Editor to refresh base pictures and scripts.
    - Compile the OS from SIMATIC Manager with 'Create/update block icons' selected.

Verification

To verify AddFEM operation in V9.0 SP3:
1. In SIMATIC Manager, inspect the CFC compilation log; verify that module driver generation completed with zero errors.
2. In CFC test mode, confirm that AddFEM channel blocks report valid signal statuses (ST = 16#80 Good).
3. In WinCC Runtime, open an AddFEM faceplate; verify that process values, alarm thresholds, and maintenance states update dynamically.

Limitations and Operational Precautions

Operational precautions:
- If block interfaces have changed between V8.2 and V9.0, updating block types will require downloading the S7 program with the CPU in STOP mode. Schedule updates during a planned outage.
- Never mix different versions of AddFEM channel blocks within the same S7 program container.
- Ensure that redundant AddFEM modules have identical firmware installed before commissioning under PCS 7 V9.0.

Engineer FAQ

Will my PCS 7 V8.2 AddFEM program run in PCS 7 V9.0 without upgrading the library?

Yes, the compiled S7 code will execute in the CPU, but upgrading to the V9.0 library is strongly advised to prevent driver generation warnings and OS faceplate anomalies.

Does updating AddFEM block types require a CPU stop?

If the inputs, outputs, or internal static variables of the blocks have changed between versions, an entire program download in STOP mode is required.

Where do I download the AddFEM V9.0 package?

From Siemens Industry Online Support (SIOS) under product support for AddFEM 6DL3100-8AC.

Does the AddFEM V9.0 library support CPU 410-5H?

Yes, the V9.0 library fully supports both S7-400H and CPU 410-5H controllers.

What does 'Generate module drivers' do for AddFEM?

It automatically inserts diagnostic and communication blocks connecting HW Config hardware addresses to CFC channel drivers.

Technical References

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Related Tags

  • AddFEM
  • PCS 7 V9.0 SP3
  • Library Upgrade
  • Update Block Types
  • Module Drivers
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