STD_symbols, basics

STD_symbols (standard symbols) are a key milestone in WinCC OA in terms of object-oriented process design. This is a symbol library consisting of graphics objects of varying complexity that allow you to display and design system diagrams quickly.

Advantages of STD_symbols:

  • Fast creation of simple displays

  • Standardized basic elements

  • Drag & drop graphics objects from the catalog into the panel

  • Integrated use of WinCC OA specific features

  • Configuration panel for replacing $parameters

  • Standardization of layout and functions for many systems

  • Example of project/sector libraries

If big numbers should be shown using STD symbols, you have to take care that the numbers are displayed correctly (if the displayed numbers are too "long"). Otherwise, use other objects.

We distinguish between two basic object types:

Simple objects used to display data point elements (e.g. Int, Bit, etc.) ("DPE objects")

Complex objects that display technological objects (e.g. drives, meter readings, etc.) (see Data point types for symbol catalog)

All symbols have been created as WinCC OA reference panels and assigned their own dedicated configuration panels. These are graphics symbols created only on the basis of WinCC OA objects. Like all references standard symbols can be dragged out of the module GEDI catalogs into a panel and can be used immediately after passing the data point parameters.

Color coding of standard symbols is standardized. This standardization is based on pre-defined color names (aliases with description of function, e.g. "STD_PanelBackground", etc.) and colors: they are stored in a separate color database in the directory <wincc_oa_path>/colorDB/std_Symbols_colorDB.

A number of panels have been developed to facilitate the operation and configuration when using symbols.

Reference editor: available for almost all symbols; is opened automatically when you insert a symbol. The reference editor for complex STD_OBJECTS is standardized (see Working with objects). The reference editors for simple STD_symbols vary depending on requirements.

For run-time operation a panel can be opened via a left click.

Complex STD_OBJECTS also have information panels with details on data point elements and in some cases simulation panels used to simulate periphery.

The following table contains the chapters regarding the STD symbols and describes their contents:

Chapter Contents
STD_symbols, basics Introduction to functions and usage, including an overview.
Requirements The requirements for the use of STD_symbols.
Simple STD_symbols Special features and links to objects.
STD_ACTIVEX List of standard objects (former ActiveX STD objects. The activeX objects have been replaced by standard objects).
STD_INDICATORS This group contains graphics display instruments such as bar displays, spinners, etc.
STD_INFOS This group contains objects that display general user information (e.g. hard disk memory, current user, etc.).
STD_INPUTS Symbols for inputs.
STD_LEDS These symbols can be used to display bit alerts (for status displays such as On, Off, etc.).
STD_PANELS Buttons that open various standard panels in WinCC OA.
STD_PARTS These symbols are used in the STD_symbols and can also be used for own objects.
STD_PICTOGRAM These symbols load different pictures to a system image.
STD_SIMULATORS Simulators with random values and various curve shapes.
STD_SWITCHES Switches for setting bits.
STD_VALUES Text fields for values (int, float) with an info panel.
Complex STD_symbols (STD_OBJECTS) Introduction to STD_OBJECTS, the various technological objects such as valves, drives, etc.
ANALOG1, ANALOG1_1 Used to display analog values of PLCs.
ANALOG2, ANALOG2_2, ANALOG_BAR These symbols display an analog value with an alarm.
BIT_CONDITION, FILTER GASTORCH These symbols display a state or an alarm.
COMPRESSOR, FAN, MAZERATOR, PUMP - PUMP1 These symbols display non-operatable devices with optionally one or two speeds. Optionally, you can display errors and alarms.
COMPRESSOR, FAN, MAZERATOR, PUMP - PUMP2 This data point type allows you to display an operatable device. Commands can be sent to the periphery.
COUNTER1, COUNTER1_1 These symbols display a counter.
DRIVE, ROTOR , ROTOR_BIG - DRIVE1 These symbols display non-operatable drives with different directions of rotation.
DRIVE, ROTOR , ROTOR_BIG - DRIVE2 These symbols display operatable drives with different directions of rotation.
FLAP_HAND1, SLIDE_VALVE_HAND These symbols display graphically updated valves and slide valves not connected to the control system.
FLAP, SLIDE_VALVE, SLIDE_VALVE_E, SLIDE_VALVE_P - SLIDE_VALVE1 These symbols display non-operatable valves or slide valves. Optionally, you can display faults and mode alerts.
FLAP, SLIDE_VALVE, SLIDE_VALVE_E, SLIDE_VALVE_P - SLIDE_VALVE1 These symbols display non-operatable valves or slide valves. Optionally, you can display faults and mode alerts.
Notice Board The notice board note_info.pnl provides an information platform for the exchange of important messages between the system users.
Wh_Sc1, Wh_Sc1_1 These objects display operating cycle and operating-time counters; the WH_SC1_1 object has a description.
Configuring objects Configuring ANALOG2.
Working with objects Creating ANALOG2 and operating/simulating ANALOG2.
Summary and related chapters Table of links to other relevant chapters in the online help.