Creating and Configuring a Master Data Library Manually in SIMATIC PCS 7 Multiprojects

When constructing a SIMATIC PCS 7 project manually without the 'New Project Wizard', an engineer can create and configure the Master Data Library (<ProjectName>_Lib) by right-clicking the Multiproject root in Component View, selecting 'Multiproject -> Create in Multiproject', and choosing the 'Libraries' tab. Once created within the project directory, right-click the new library and select 'Multiproject -> Define as Master Data Library'. The library icon turns blue, establishing it as the single authoritative source of truth for standardized technological blocks, Shared Declarations, and Control Module Types (CMT).

Role of the Master Data Library in SIMATIC PCS 7 Engineering

In SIMATIC PCS 7, a Multiproject coordinates multiple automation stations (AS), operator stations (OS), and engineering workstations into a coherent DCS entity.

The central pillar of standardization within a multiproject is the Master Data Library (MDL):
* Single Source of Truth: Consolidates all technological blocks (APL, Industry Library, or custom SCL blocks) utilized across all AS programs into one central location.
* Type-Instance Synchronization: When block algorithms or interface parameters are modified, updating all charts across 10+ automation stations is executed with a single command from the Master Data Library.
* Archiving Integrity: Placing the Master Data Library inside the multiproject folder structure ensures that when the project is archived (File -> Archive), all custom libraries, block templates, and shared declarations are preserved within the .zip archive.

Step-by-Step Manual Creation Workflow in Component View

When creating a project without the PCS 7 Wizard, instantiate the Master Data Library manually:

[SIMATIC Manager -> Component View]
   │
   ├─► Right-click Multiproject Root Node (Top Icon)
   ├─► Select: Multiproject -> Create in Multiproject...
   │
   ├─► In the Dialog Window:
   │     • Select Tab: "Libraries"
   │     • Name: Enter library name (e.g., "Plant_Master_Lib")
   │     • Storage Location: MUST reside within the multiproject path
   │     • Click OK -> Library is created (Displays green book icon)
   │
   ▼
[Define as Master Data Library]
   │  • Right-click the newly created library
   │  • Select: Multiproject -> Define as Master Data Library
   │  • OBSERVE: Library icon changes from Green to BLUE
   ▼
[Populate Standard Folders]
   │  • Right-click Library -> Insert New Object -> S7 Program
   │  • Copy required APL blocks into the "Blocks" folder
   │  • Insert "Shared Declarations" (Units, Enumerations)

Configuring Shared Declarations, Models, and Process Tag Types

A complete Master Data Library in PCS 7 includes four foundational structural elements:

Library ComponentCatalog Object TypeOperational PurposeBlocks FolderS7 Program -> BlocksContains tested, approved FBs/FCs used across all AS stations.Shared DeclarationsShared DeclarationsCentral repository for engineering units, enumerations, and equipment states.Control Module Types (CMT)Process Tag Types / CMTStandardized technological chart templates (e.g. motor, valve, analog).Equipment Modules (EM)Models / Equipment ModulesMulti-unit operational phase sequences and unit control templates.

Master Data Library vs Standard System Libraries

A fundamental distinction in SIMATIC PCS 7 engineering is the boundary between the Master Data Library and Siemens Standard System Libraries:
* System Libraries (e.g. PCS 7 APL, Basis Library): Shipped with the engineering software installation, containing read-only system blocks. They are updated when service packs are installed on the ES. Directly using blocks from system libraries across charts creates version divergence when multiple engineers work on different stations.
* Master Data Library (MDL): A project-specific container where system blocks are imported and curated. Attributes (such as default alarm texts or message classes) can be tailored to plant standards. The MDL acts as an immutable baseline that protects active automation stations from unintended block overwrites during ES software upgrades.

Verification

To confirm that the Master Data Library is correctly configured:
1. In SIMATIC Manager Component View, verify that the library object icon displays a blue book symbol (indicating Master Data Library status).
2. Right-click the library root and select Properties; verify that the storage path resides within the multiproject directory structure.
3. In Plant View, verify that the library folder displays Shared Declarations, Control Module Types, and Models.
4. Test block type synchronization: Select the Master Data Library Blocks folder, click Options -> Charts -> Update Block Types, and confirm that all AS stations in the multiproject appear as selectable targets.
5. Archive the project (File -> Archive -> Multiproject); extract to a test location and confirm the Master Data Library unpacks cleanly.

Limitations and Operational Precautions

Never place the Master Data Library outside the multiproject root directory (e.g. on a separate network drive or local desktop). If the library resides outside the multiproject folder, the SIMATIC Manager archiving tool will skip the library during project backup, resulting in missing block types and broken chart connections when restoring backups on new engineering stations. Always ensure the library is created 'into multiproject'.

Engineer FAQ

What does the blue icon indicate on a library in SIMATIC Manager?

The blue icon signifies that the library has been designated as the 'Master Data Library' for that multiproject, serving as the central reference for block type updates and shared declarations.

Why should I not copy blocks directly from the PCS 7 System Library into CFC charts?

Copying blocks directly from standard system libraries bypasses centralized version management. If Siemens updates the library or if custom attribute modifications are made, updating blocks across stations becomes uncoordinated and error-prone.

Can a multiproject have more than one Master Data Library?

No. A SIMATIC PCS 7 multiproject can have multiple user libraries, but only one library can be designated as the Master Data Library at any given time.

Do blocks in the Master Data Library automatically update when PCS 7 is upgraded?

No. Blocks in the Master Data Library are protected from automatic overwrites during PCS 7 software updates, ensuring that productive projects remain stable until the engineer explicitly initiates an update.