Troubleshooting Empty Table Views in SIMATIC PCS 7 OS Measuring Point Browser

In SIMATIC PCS 7 OS Runtime (v8.1 and v8.2), opening the Measuring Point Browser (Messstellenbrowser) and encountering a completely blank or empty table view occurs when the underlying WinCC SQL database views lack compiled measuring point records, the user session lacks area authorization permissions, or the Picture Tree Manager was not compiled. The Measuring Point Browser queries compiled APL technological blocks across the plant hierarchy using Split Screen Manager (SSM) database views. To resolve this, verify that technological blocks have 'OCM possible' enabled, execute an OS compile with 'Picture Tree' checked, and ensure the active user has area access authorizations.

Measuring Point Browser Architecture and Technological Point Querying

The Measuring Point Browser in SIMATIC PCS 7 OS provides operators with a centralized, searchable overview of all technological measuring points (transmitters, loops, valves, motors):
* Technological Point Extraction: During OS compilation, the system parses all CFC blocks with property OCM possible and registers them into internal WinCC database tables (CS_TAGS, SSM_TAGS).
* Runtime Filtering: When opened in runtime (@MeasuringPointBrowser.pdl), the control queries the local SQL Server database, filtering results based on:
* The currently selected Plant Area in the navigation tree.
* The logged-on operator's Area Authorizations in WinCC User Administrator.
* Active block status and maintenance states (e.g. simulated, bypassed, out of service).

Root Causes of Empty Table Views in Runtime

When the browser dialog opens but displays zero records:
1. Uncompiled Picture Tree / Area Structure: If the OS was compiled without checking Picture Tree, the hierarchical area tables are not generated, preventing the browser from resolving which points belong to which plant area.
2. Missing Area Authorization for Active User: If the logged-on user does not have permission for the specific plant areas (Level 5/6 in User Administrator), the browser enforces security isolation and suppresses all measuring points.
3. No APL Technological Blocks Configured for OCM: If blocks in CFC were configured without OCM enabled, or if custom blocks lack the { S7_m_c := 'true' } attribute, they are excluded from the measuring point registry.
4. Corrupted SSM Picture / Script Cache: Split Screen Manager cache files out of date, requiring re-running the OS Project Editor.

Remediation Procedure - Compiling Picture Tree and Database Synchronization

Follow this procedure to populate the Measuring Point Browser:

[Phase 1: Verify User Area Authorizations in WinCC User Administrator]
   │  • Open WinCC Explorer -> Double-click "User Administrator"
   │  • Select the logged-on user group (e.g. "Operators")
   │  • In the right pane, select "Authorizations":
   │      - Ensure the group has access to ALL plant areas (Area 1, Area 2, etc.)
   │  • Save and close User Administrator
   │
[Phase 2: Recompile OS with Picture Tree Generation]
   │  • In SIMATIC Manager: Select the OS object -> Right-click -> "Compile"
   │  • In the compilation wizard:
   │      - Scope: Select "Tags and messages"
   │      - Options: Ensure [x] "Picture Tree" is checked!
   │  • Complete compilation and download changes to the OS Server
   │
[Phase 3: Run OS Project Editor to Refresh SSM Scripts]
   │  • In WinCC Explorer on the OS Server:
   │      - Open "OS Project Editor"
   │      - Select tab: "Basic Data" -> Ensure "@MeasuringPointBrowser.pdl" is checked
   │      - Click "OK" to regenerate Split Screen Manager scripts
   │  • Activate WinCC Runtime -> Open browser -> All measuring points populate!

Measuring Point Diagnostic and Configuration Checklist Matrix

Verify system configuration requirements for the Measuring Point Browser:

Configuration LayerRequired SettingDiagnostic Consequence if OmittedCFC Block InstanceOCM possible = TRUEMeasuring point excluded from database.OS Compile Wizard[x] Picture Tree checkedEmpty table view (No area hierarchy).User AdministratorArea permissions enabledSecurity filter suppresses points for user.OS Project EditorBasic Data templates appliedCorrupted or missing @MeasuringPointBrowser.pdl.WinCC SQL DatabaseRunning and attachedBrowser controls fail with SQL error.

Verification

To confirm that the Measuring Point Browser operates properly:
1. In WinCC Runtime, click the Measuring Point Browser icon on the top overview toolbar.
2. Verify that the window opens displaying a populated tabular list of all transmitters, valves, and motors.
3. Confirm that columns (Measuring Point, Description, Operating Mode, Process Value) display live dynamic data.
4. Click a measuring point row; click Loop-in-Alarm or Open Faceplate; confirm that the technological faceplate opens immediately.
5. Apply a filter (e.g. 'Show only simulated points'); verify that the table filters dynamically.

Limitations and Operational Precautions

Never disable area-based user permissions in production plants merely to populate the Measuring Point Browser. Doing so allows unauthorized operators to command equipment outside their assigned plant units. Always configure granular area permissions in WinCC User Administrator matching operational responsibility.

Engineer FAQ

What types of blocks appear in the Measuring Point Browser?

All technological control blocks from the APL (such as PIDConL, MotL, VlvL, MonAnL, MonDiL) that possess OCM capabilities appear in the browser.

Can I open a faceplate directly from the Measuring Point Browser?

Yes. Double-clicking any measuring point row or selecting it and clicking the faceplate button instantly opens its corresponding faceplate.

Why does the browser work on the Server but appear empty on an OS Client?

The OS Client does not have the latest server data package loaded, or the user logged onto the client workstation lacks area authorizations in the client user database.

How do I search for a specific tag name in the browser?

Use the integrated filter text box at the top of the Measuring Point Browser; entering string fragments (e.g. TIC* or Pump*) filters the list in real time.