Configuring databases

Editor for database configurations

The database ID, which is required for some function blocks in the PLC, is shown in the upper part of the editor (1). The database types of the target database can be selected from the drop-down menu (2). Another option is the ODBC interface for a database, although this is not yet supported. Note that not all functions of the TwinCAT Database Server can be guaranteed, depending on the database.

As a further option you can select a so-called failover database (3), which is triggered when an error is encountered in Configure mode. In the event of a network disconnection, this feature can automatically ensure that data are stored elsewhere and not lost.

For each database additional adjustable parameters are available. Depending on the database a connection string (5) is created, which describes the connection to the database. The intention is to make the parameters you have set more transparent.

The CREATE (4) button can be used to create a new database. This function is only displayed if the respective database supports it.

Unknown databases can be configured via an ODBC interface. In the ODBC Type drop-down list select "Unknown Database" and add parameters via the commands in the context menu. They may contain passwords, which are stored in encrypted form. The required connection string can be assembled from these parameters. Note that only limited functions of the TwinCAT Database Server can be used. Only the explicit function blocks of the SQL Expert mode are supported.