How to Trace Block Type Cross-References from Master Data Libraries Across PCS 7 Projects

To identify which Continuous Function Charts (CFCs) utilize specific block types from the Master Data Library in SIMATIC PCS 7, engineers can use two primary tools: the Process Object View (POV) in SIMATIC Manager by applying a filter on the 'Block Type' column across the multi-project, or the CFC Cross-Reference utility by opening any chart, clicking the Cross-Reference icon (yellow cross with directional arrows), selecting the 'Block Types' view, and searching for the specific FB/FC number. Both methods list every chart instance, hierarchy path, and block name instantaneously.

The Importance of Block Type Cross-Referencing in Multi-Projects

In large SIMATIC PCS 7 multi-projects containing multiple Automation Stations (AS) and thousands of CFC charts, maintaining consistency across function block types is essential.

When an engineer prepares to update a block type in the Master Data Library (MDL)—for example, upgrading MotL (FB1850) or applying a patch to a custom dosing block:
* The engineer must identify precisely which CFC charts and process units instantiate that specific block.
* Updating a block type alters its internal interface (adding pins, changing data types, modifying memory footprint), which requires an online AS download.
* Knowing the exact cross-reference prevents unexpected CPU compilation errors, allows targeted testing, and ensures that unused legacy blocks can be safely identified and purged from the library.

Method 1: Tracing Block Instances via Process Object View (POV)

The Process Object View (POV) in SIMATIC Manager is the most powerful tabular tool for managing project-wide block instances:

Open Process Object View:
* In SIMATIC Manager, select View > Process Object View (or click the Process Object View icon on the toolbar).
Set Scope in Plant Hierarchy:
* In the tree on the left, select the multi-project root folder to search all AS systems, or select a specific plant hierarchy folder to restrict the search.
Navigate to the Blocks Tab:
* In the right pane, select the Blocks tab.
* A table displays every block instance in the selected hierarchy, including Chart Name, Block Name, Block Type, and Execution Task.
Apply Filter on Block Type:
* Right-click the header of the Block Type column and select Filter....
* Enter the exact block type name (e.g., MotL, VlvL, or FB1850).
* Click OK. The view filters instantly, displaying every instance of that block across the entire project, complete with its CFC path and block designation.

Method 2: Using the CFC Cross-Reference (Block Types View)

If you are already working inside the Continuous Function Chart (CFC) editor, the integrated CFC Cross-Reference provides instant instance tracking:

Open CFC Cross-Reference:
* Open any CFC chart in the project.
* On the toolbar, click the Cross-Reference icon (represented by a yellow cross with four blue arrows at its ends) or select menu Options > Cross-Reference.
Select Block Types View:
* In the Cross-Reference window, select the Block Types tab.
Search for Target Block:
* In the list of block types, scroll to or search for the desired block (e.g., FB1845 - MonAnL).
* Expand the block type node.
* The tree lists every chart in the project where the block is placed, showing the chart name, block instance name, execution group, and OB runtime cycle.
* Double-clicking any entry opens that specific CFC chart and centers the editor view directly on the block.

Method 3: Generating Project-Wide Reference Data in SIMATIC Manager

For comprehensive reporting and auditing documentation:

Generate Reference Data:
* In SIMATIC Manager Component View, select the Blocks folder under an S7 Program.
* Select menu Options > Reference Data > Display.
Select Cross-Reference List:
* In the Reference Data window, choose Block Type Cross-Reference.
* The tool generates a complete tabular report listing all FBs, FCs, and DBs, detailing caller hierarchies and memory address allocations.
Export to CSV:
* Select File > Export... to export the cross-reference table into a CSV or text file for external spreadsheet analysis, verification auditing, or engineering documentation.

Comparison of PCS 7 Cross-Referencing Tools

The table below compares the primary tools used for tracing block type cross-references in SIMATIC PCS 7.

Tool NameAccess LocationScope of SearchDirect Navigation to Chart?Export CapabilityProcess Object View (POV)SIMATIC ManagerMulti-Project wideYes (Right-click > Open)Yes (CSV / Excel format)CFC Cross-ReferenceCFC Editor (Yellow Cross)S7 Program wideYes (Double-click jumps to block)Print / Text exportReference Data (Display)SIMATIC ManagerS7 Program wideYes (Jump to block)Formatted Text / CSVWinCC Cross-ReferenceWinCC ExplorerWinCC OS Tags onlyJumps to Picture / C-ScriptCSV / Database report

Verification

To confirm that all block instances have been accurately traced:
1. In Process Object View, note the total count of filtered block instances (e.g., 42 instances of VlvL).
2. Open the CFC Cross-Reference on the same program and confirm that the instance count matches exactly.
3. Double-click an entry in the cross-reference list: confirm that the CFC editor opens and highlights the correct block.
4. If testing before a block update, verify that every identified chart is scheduled for compilation and download.

Limitations and Operational Precautions

Reference data must be up to date; if charts were recently edited, select Options > Reference Data > Filter... and click Update to rebuild the index.
The CFC Cross-Reference window operates within the scope of the currently open S7 Program; to search across multiple independent automation stations simultaneously, use the Process Object View at the multi-project root.
Modifying block parameters directly in the Process Object View writes changes to the CFC database immediately; verify entries carefully before editing.
WinCC tags linked to blocks are not indexed by CFC Cross-Reference; use the WinCC Cross-Reference tool in WinCC Explorer to trace OS graphic and alarm references.

Engineer FAQ

Can I change block parameters directly from the Process Object View?

Yes. Process Object View allows mass editing of block parameters, block comments, and OS monitoring attributes across hundreds of blocks simultaneously without opening individual CFC charts.

Why does CFC Cross-Reference show blocks that were recently deleted?

The cross-reference index may be displaying cached data. In the Cross-Reference window, select View > Update (or press F5) to refresh the index against the current chart database.

How do I identify which blocks in the Master Data Library are unused?

In Process Object View, list all block types present in the project. Any block residing in the Master Data Library whose type does not appear in the POV list is unused and can be safely archived or removed.