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EPLAN NEWSfor Version 2.1 SP 1

Copyright © 2011 EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG

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Table of Contents

Table of ContentsPreface 5

Notes for the Reader 6New Features of the Entire EPLAN Platform 8

User Interface 8Additional display of part designations 8

Graphical Editor 9Dimensioning via the calculated center between two points 9Correct behavior when copying, cutting, pasting 11

Properties 12Replace values of properties with replacement texts 12Renamed coil properties 18

Reports 19Device connection diagrams with alphanumerically sorted connection points

19Message Management 21Synchronize selection in message management 21

Extensions for Automated Processing 22EPLAN schemes used in automated processing 22Automated DXF / DWG export 26

Macros 27Number of units / quantities for parts in macros with value sets 27

Multi-User Operation 27Simultaneous processing of a project with several EPLAN versions is pre-vented 27

New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Extension Module 28Modifications in the STEP import for subsequent use of drilling patterns 29

Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8 30Terminals / Plugs 30Summary of distributed terminals per level 30Same designations within multi-level terminals 30

Extended Reports for Terminals 32Output all connection points of a terminal in a row 32

EPLAN NEWS 2.1 SP 1 • Page 3

Special Topics EPLAN Pro Panel Professional 36Data Transfer from EPLAN Cabinet 36Data transfer of Cabinet projects including connections 36Import directory structure of EPLAN Cabinet graphical macros 38

Special Topics EPLAN PPE 40Updating EPLAN PPE Macros 40Improved Macros for Designing PCT Loops 40

New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension" Extension Module 41Other New Features and Information 43

Customer Queries and Messages 43Validation Code 46Retrieving the validation code online 46

Installation 48Installation using the EPLAN Manager 48

Software Requirements and Approvals 54General requirements 54Operating systems 54Microsoft products 55SQL server 55Autodesk products 55PDF redlining 55PLC systems (PLC & bus extension) 55Unsupported operating systems 56Other software that is no longer supported 56

Hardware Requirements 57Workstation hardware requirements 57Recommended workstation configuration 57Minimum net requirements 58Minimummultiuser requirements 58


Preface

PrefaceDear EPLAN users,

How can I speed upmy planning processes? How can I improve automa-tion? These are burning questions, while pressure from time and project con-straints keeps building. The right answers to these questions are supplied bythe newEPLAN platform –we are pleased to hand you today your EPLANplatform 2.1 Service Pack 1.

Standardization and automation at the core: Using fast navigation to processcheck runmessages in a targetedmanner and generatingmeaningful doc-umentation on the basis of replacement texts – these new functions ensurefast results and improved project quality.

New standardization possibilities in the area of automated processing forprojects and the extension of this function to include DXF / DWG output openupmany new approaches for standardizing your engineering processes.

The extensions in the area of terminal design and planning ensure compactreports and a transparent representation of the connection information,including for downstream engineering tasks.

You can now benefit from innovative functional extensions and improve-ments that make your project planning evenmore efficient. Wewish youmuch success with your newEPLAN platform 2.1 Service Pack 1.

Your EPLANSoftware & Service team


Notes for the Reader

Notes for the ReaderImportant information:

Before installing the version, please note the information in chapter "OtherNew Features and Information" starting on page "43". Pay special attentionto the section "Software Requirements and Approvals" on page "54".

Before you begin reading, please note the following symbols and styles usedin this document:

Warning:Text preceded by this symbol contains a warning; you should be absolutelysure to read this warning before proceeding!

Note:Text preceded by this image contains extra notes.

Example:Examples are highlighted by this symbol.

Tip:Useful tips to facilitate your interaction with the program are presented afterthis image.

l User interface elements aremarked in bold (and blue) so they can imme-diately be located in the text.

l Italic text provides particularly important information that you should def-initely pay attention to.

l Code examples, directory names, and direct input (among others) are dis-played in a non-proportional font.

l Function keys, keyboard keys, and buttons within the program are shownin square brackets (e.g., [F1] for the "F1" function key).


Notes for the Reader

l To improve the flow of the text, we often use "menu paths" in this docu-ment (for example,Help > Contents). In order to find a particular pro-gram function, themenus and options shown in amenu pathmust beselected in the sequence shown. For example, themenu pathmentionedabove calls up the EPLAN help system.

l In combination with settings or fields (e.g., check boxes) which can onlybe switched on or off, in this document we often use the terms "activate"(after which the setting is active ) and "deactivate" (after which the set-ting is inactive ).


New Features of the Entire EPLAN Platform

New Features of the Entire EPLAN PlatformUser InterfaceAdditional display of part designationsIn the tree views of different navigators and dialogs for parts, you will nowalso see the text of theDesignation 1 part field in addition to the part numberof a part. Where a text has been entered into this field for the respective partin theGeneral tab of parts management, this text will be separated from thepreceding part number by a blank and placed in brackets for clarity.

Benefit: The additional display of a "talking" designation provides, atfirst glance, more information on the records and thus facilitatesyour selection of parts in navigators and selection dialogs.


Graphical Editor

The extended display for part numbers concerns the tree view of the fol-lowing dialogs:

l Parts managementl Part selectionl Part master data navigatorl Device navigatorl Bill of materials navigatorl 2D panel layout navigatorl 3Dmounting layout navigator.

This new display corresponds to the display of pages in the page navigator,which displays the page name as well as the page description.

Graphical EditorDimensioning via the calculated center between two pointsWhen inserting dimensioning, it is now possible, by clicking any two points –including of different graphical objects (lines, polygons, etc.) – to determinethe point that is at the halfway point of the imaginary connection line betweenthe points identified. A point thus determined then serves as the start or endpoint of dimensioning. The center can be calculated for all dimensioning,except for the radius dimension. Ameaningful field of application of this newfunction exists everywhere where a real point is not available and cannot becaptured.

To execute dimensioning via the calculated center between two points,select first, from the Insert > Dimensioningmenu or theGraphic toolbar,the required dimensioning (e.g., linear dimension). Hold down the [Ctrl] keyand enter the first measuring point.


Dimensioning via the calculated center between two points

By pressing the [Ctrl] key, you start the calculation of the center between twopoints when enteringmeasuring points. In the graphical editor, this becomesvisible by a change in color for the auxiliary line on the cursor.

Then, use themouse to set the end point for the calculation of the center. Thecalculated point is used as a starting point for dimensioning.

Then, enter the secondmeasuring point for dimensioning. If this is also todraw upon the center of a line / graphical object, again press the [Ctrl] key todetermine this point by twomouse-clicks. The dimensioning is insertedbetween the calculated center and the secondmeasuring point.

Example:Section of amodel view for EPLANPro Panel: Linear dimension betweenthe top edge of an enclosure and the calculated center of the circular rep-resentation of a logic item.


Correct behavior when copying, cutting, pasting

Tip:The functionality described here is identical to the 3D program behavior. If, inthe opened layout space, you keep the [Ctrl] key pressed while clicking tworandom and consecutive geometric points, a handle, mounting point or basepoint will be placed in the center between the geometric points. This inputmethod can be used, for example, to place the point in the center of a drillhole.

Note:In objects that are imported from STEP or DXF data, drill holes already havea center. In such cases, you can use the object snap in order to place pointsor objects on that center.

Correct behavior when copying, cutting, pastingWhen copying / cutting and pasting schematic elements, in version 2.1 thismay have resulted in the "handle" of the highlighted schematic section beingmoved. In the new version, the correct behavior has been restored for theseactions. Thus, with a schematic section with logical elements (devices, etc.),the graphically first insertion point (upper left) is used as the "handle" of thesection.


Properties

PropertiesReplace values of properties with replacement textsIn EPLAN, you can replace the values of Block properties or the values of for-matted properties in placeholder texts (when creating reports of forms) withso-called "replacement texts". This way, numeric values, Boolean values(True / False, Yes / No, etc.) or monolingual texts can be replaced bymul-tilingual, meaningful texts. The replacement texts are defined as tables bymeans of new properties in the form and project properties.

Benefit: Using the replacement texts, you can replace certain propertyvalues (numeric values, Boolean values, monolingual texts,etc.) with multilingual texts. This way, meaningful texts andterms can be displayed, increasing the information content ofthe documentation. Legibility is improved substantially, withoutcreating any additional planning costs.

Extended format settings for propertiesBoth with block properties and formatted properties of placeholder texts informs, the Format: Block properties dialog is used to format the properties.This dialog has been extended to include theReplacement text field to out-put replacement texts.


Replace values of properties with replacement texts

In theReplacement text drop-down list, you can set for the selected prop-erty that a specific table of replacement texts is to be used.

The values of the selected property are then compared to the texts defined inthe table and replaced accordingly. By default, the field is set to the "Do notuse" entry. In that case, the values of the selected property will not bereplaced.

Replacement texts for block propertiesYou set the replacement texts for the block properties in theProject prop-erties. Here, you can use the newBlock property: Replacement text [n](ID 10660) property to define up to 10 tables (via the index; n = 1-10) forreplacement texts.



After selecting this property via theProperty selection dialog, in the prop-erty list click the related cell of theValue column, then click [...]. TheReplace-ment texts dialog opens.



Use this dialog to define a table with replacement texts. Using the known(New) and (Delete) buttons, you can generate new rows for the table orremove highlighted rows.

Operator:In this column you choose a comparison operator for comparing the value ofa property with the source text. Here, you will find the same operators as inthe filter dialog.

In addition, you can also select here the "Regular expression" entry. Thevalue is then compared with the source text on the basis of a regular expres-sion. (This setting should be used only by advanced users who are familiarwith the use of regular expressions.)

Source text:Here you enter the comparison value that is to be compared to the selectedproperty. It is case-sensitive.

Output text:Here you enter the text that is to replace the value of the selected property.



Note:The texts in the fieldsSource text andOutput text can be entered asmul-tilingual texts. In the case of automatic translation (Translate on inputoption is activated in the translation settings), these texts are not considered;they can be translated only manually (Popup menu > Translate).

After you have entered here the replacement texts and set for the selectedproperty the corresponding replacement table, the values of this block prop-erty are replaced with the texts of the table.

Example:On a placed function in the schematic, you want to display whether the func-tion is amain function. To do so, in the property dialog, you select theMainfunction (ID 20122) property as the format element of a block property (e.g.,theBlock property 1: Format property via the format elements "Functionproperty > General function properties"). In the property list, on the first tab,the value "X" is displayed for theBlock property 1 property for amain func-tion; for an auxiliary function, no value is displayed.

To replace these values with moremeaningful texts, for theMain functionproperty, set theReplacement text field in the Format: Block propertydialog to the "Use table 1" entry.

To replace the text in the block properties, define then in the project prop-erties the following table for theBlock property: Replacement text [1] prop-erty:

Operator Source text Output text= X Main function= Auxiliary function

Subsequently, the values of theMain function property on the placed func-tion are replaced by the output texts.



For many devices, theBlock property 1 property is part of the default prop-erty placement. As a result, the text "Main function / Auxiliary function" forthe placed function is also displayed in the graphical editor as property place-ment.

Replacement texts for formsTo define replacement texts for forms, you can use in the form properties thenewProperties formatted: Replacement text [n] (ID 13116) property. Youcan define up to ten tables for replacement texts via this new form propertyas well (via the index). You can use these tables to replace the values ofthese properties when creating reports of forms that contain placeholdertexts with formatted properties.

By default, this property does not exist in the list of properties in the Formproperties dialog, but has to be selected via the property selection. Thetables are defined in a way similar to block properties, also via theReplace-ment texts dialog.

When creating reports of forms, the values of the selected property are thencompared to the texts defined in the table and replaced accordingly.

Note:When creating reports of forms, priority is given to the tables with replace-ment texts defined in theProperties formatted: Replacement text [n]form property. If the selected table is not defined in the form property, thetable of the same namewill instead be used from theBlock property:Replacement text project property.


Renamed coil properties

Renamed coil propertiesTo designate different properties more clearly, some properties, particularlythose used primarily to designate coils, have been renamed:

Old name: New name: IDVoltage Coil: Voltage 22218Coil voltage Coil: Voltage 20054Power Switching capacity 20055Contact power Contact: Switching capacity 20055

In parts management, thePower field has been renamed toSwitchingcapacity in theContactor data,Component data, andPLC data tabs.Upon part assignment, the value of this field is carried over to the corre-sponding property on the function.


Reports

ReportsDevice connection diagrams with alphanumerically sorted connectionpointsIn order to output in table device connection diagrams in an alphanumericallysortedmanner, you can use in the form properties of the device-connectiondiagram forms the newAlphanumeric sorting for internal connectionpoints (ID 13115) property.

Connection diagrams in table form are characterized by the fact that a sep-arate row is displayed for each target. For this to be possible, youmust acti-vate in the respective connection-point diagram form the two form propertiesConnection diagram: Internal targets in table form (ID 13086) andCon-nection diagram: External targets in table form (ID 13087).

For all connection points to be output internally and sorted jointly, youmustalso activate theSummarize external and internal targets in internal tar-gets (ID 13054) property. During the alphanumeric sorting, the sorting isdone first on the basis of thePlug DT (automatic) (ID 20431) property, andonly then on the basis of the connection point designation. This way, the con-nection points of a plug remain together.

Note:The logical association of the connection points with a function, however, isnot always possible in the case of alphanumeric sorting. For example, if theconnection points of a terminal have the connection point designations 5 and13, they will be listed separate of each other in the table representation,because the connection point designations 6, 7, 8, etc. of other terminals(with the sameDT) are sorted in between.


Device connection diagrams with alphanumerically sorted connection points

Example:Sections from a device-connection diagram in table form: Alphanumeric sort-ing of the connection points for the device

a) -QAB (partially with complete name of the target connection points)b) -AA2 (incl. change of the plug DT (see arrow))

a) b)


Message Management

Message ManagementSynchronize selection in message managementThe check runmessages highlighted inmessagemanagement can now besynchronized with the opened navigators. For this, you can use theSyn-chronize selectionmenu item in the popupmenu of messagemanage-ment.

Benefit: The synchronization of the selection of messagemanagementand navigators facilitates the finding of objects in navigatorsthat cause errors. The easy jump to objects associated with theerror message and the fast access to their properties via navi-gators speed up the processing of check runmessages.

If you select this popupmenu item for a check runmessage, the objects thatgave rise to this message will be highlighted in the opened navigators.

By double-clicking the row of a check runmessage caused by placedobjects, you were able to jump to the respective objects in the graphicaleditor / layout space even in previous versions. If the check runmessage iscaused by unplaced objects (functions, connections, etc.), the double-clickwill now synchronize the selection and highlight the unplaced objects in theopened navigators.

Note:Unplaced objects as the cause of messages can be identified by the factthat, in the respective row of messagemanagement, they do not have anentry in thePage column, nor an entry in the Layout space column.


Extensions for Automated Processing

Extensions for Automated ProcessingEPLAN schemes used in automated processingThe automated processing of projects is nowmanaged bymeans of EPLANschemes. For this purpose, all actions that are to be run in an automatedmanner at once are stored in a user-specific scheme under a specific name.As is customary in EPLAN, such a scheme can be copied, edited or deleted.Schemes can also be imported or exported. There is no editing of scripts forautomated processing.

Benefit: The uniform design of settings as a scheme facilitates youroperation of the program. Scripts are now stored centrallythrough the use of schemes. There is no duplicate datamanagement of the same scripts in several projects anymore.Using automated processing, you can easily define – and withthe new schemes, now available for every user at the company– a uniform basis for the standardized processing of projects.Scripts already defined can be applied easily by importing themand storing them as schemes – thus is laid the foundation forfull and comprehensive standardization.

You can tell that scripts for automated processing now support schemes bythe fact that theSettings: Automated processing dialog has beenextended to include the familiar drop-down list Scheme as well as the toolbarto edit schemes.

(To define the settings for automatic processing, use, as before, theUtilities> Automated processing > Settingsmenu path.)


EPLAN schemes used in automated processing

Now, if you select theUtilities > Automated processing > Runmenuitems, it is no longer the "active script" from the project settings that is runimmediately, but instead the newRun: Automated processing dialog isopened first.



In this dialog you can select the scheme to be used for automated proc-essing. In the process, a list will display the actions stored in the selectedscheme.

By default, theApply to entire project check box is activated. As a result,the actions of the scheme are run not only for the current selection, but for theentire project. If automated processing is to consider only the current selec-tion (e.g., several highlighted pages in the page navigator), deactivate thischeck box.



Modifications in project managementTheAutomated processing dialog, too, which you can open in projectmanagement for a selected project via [Organize] > Automated proc-essing, has been extended accordingly. You can select a new script, whichis saved as a scheme, using theScheme drop-down list.

The [Settings] button has been removed. You navigate the settings now byclicking the [...] button located next to theScheme drop-down list.

Import scripts from previous versionSo far, scripts have been stored in the project directory of the respectiveproject in a project-specific manner. To continue using "old" scripts from pre-vious EPLAN versions (version 2.1 or older), you can use in theSettings:Automated processing dialog the (Import script) button. Clicking this but-ton opens the Import script from previous version dialog. Using thisdialog, you can select a script file (*.cs) in the project directory of theselected project and save it as a new scheme.

Support for previous scriptsTo continue using the old, project-specific, scripts, you can use the newRunactive scriptmenu item in theUtilities > Automated processingmenupath. If you select this menu item, the script will be run that has been set as"Active script" in the project settings.

If you want to continue using your previous scripts from Projectmanagement, in theAutomated processing dialog, you can select one ofthe two familiar optionsUse separate script for each project orUse scriptfrom selected project for all projects. In such a case, project-specificscripts will continue to be run. These two settings are relevant only forprojects that were created bymeans of previous EPLAN versions (version2.1 or older).


Automated DXF / DWG export

Other modifications to settingsBy converting to schemes, there is no need anymore for an editor to editscripts directly. The user-specific settings dialog has been removed (pre-viousmenu path:Options > Settings > User > Management > Auto-mated processing).

The project-specific settings (underOptions > Settings > Projects >"Project name" > Management > Automated processing) are stillincluded in the program for compatibility reasons. This allows you to run theold, project-specific, scripts for automatic processing that are contained inprojects created bymeans of previous EPLAN versions. The [...] button thatyou used to use to navigate to theSettings: Automated processing dialoghas been removed.

Automated DXF / DWG exportAnother new feature of automated processing is that you can now also exportpages or projects to the DXF / DWG format automatically.

The new "DXF / DWG" action is available to you in theSettings: Automatedprocessing dialog for this purpose. If you use the button tomove thisaction for a script to theSelected actions list, the familiarDXF / DWGexport dialog opens. You can use this dialog tomake the settings for auto-mated DXF / DWG file output.


Macros

MacrosNumber of units / quantities for parts in macros with value setsIf, in connection with placedmacros with values sets, a different value setwas assigned in version 2.1, this may have resulted in the information storedin the respectivemacros concerning the parts in theNumber of units /quantity field beingmodified to show the value "1". This happened alsowhen a variable with values had been defined for the correspondingNumberof units / quantity property of a device. This could have resulted in incorrectreports.

In the new version, the information concerning number of units / quantity inmacros with value sets is preserved also in connection with the proceduredescribed above, and the reports are in accordance with the input.

Multi-User OperationSimultaneous processing of a project with several EPLAN versions ispreventedIn themulti-user operation of the EPLAN platform, it is no longer possible forseveral users to work on a project using different EPLAN versions.

Now, when a user opens a project in an older EPLAN version while in multi-user operation, and a second user who has the newEPLAN version 2.1 SP 1also attempts to open the project, the second user will be shown a corre-spondingmessage and the project will not be opened.


New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Extension Module

New Features in the "EPLAN Pro Panel" Extension ModuleNote:

The "EPLANPro Panel" extensionmodule is available as an option forEPLANElectric P8 Compact, EPLANElectric P8 Select, EPLANElectric P8Professional, EPLANFluid Compact, and EPLANFluid.

The "EPLANPro Panel" extensionmodule is used for placing electrical engi-neering and fluid power devices from the EPLAN project, from the EPLANparts management, or from the EPLANData Portal, as required. In con-junction with mechanical components such as cable ducts, mounting rails,mounting panels, or entire enclosures, "EPLANPro Panel" simplifies the con-struction of complex 3Dmounting layouts dramatically.


Modifications in the STEP import for subsequent use of drilling patterns

Below, we list only themodifications that concern the "EPLANPro Panel"extensionmodule. But this new feature in the STEP import also applies toEPLANPro Panel Professional. Other new features for EPLANPro PanelProfessional, themodule package for the area of integrative enclosuredesign, fabrication andmanufacture, are described on page "36".

Modifications in the STEP import for subsequent use of drilling pat-ternsIn all items that are imported bymeans of the STEP import (menu path Lay-out space > Import (3D graphic)), the Item requires holes in mountingsurface (ID 36014) property is now always activated. Drilling patterns storedon a part that have been assigned to such an item are visualized in a defaultmanner in this way and taken into account as drill holes in connection withthe NC export.

Benefit: Previously, the property for the visualization and output of drill-ing patterns for NCmanufacturing had to be activated sub-sequently; this is no longer required.

In items that have been assigned a drilling pattern, but one which is not nec-essary under the circumstances, it is possible to deactivate the property sub-sequently.


Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8

Special Topics EPLAN Electric P8Terminals / PlugsSummary of distributed terminals per levelTo distinguish between individual terminal functions, EPLAN now also takesinto account the level. A terminal with the designation 1 on level 1 is thereforea terminal function that is different than a terminal of the same designation 1on level 2.

This modification is the reason why distributed terminals are now combinedfor each level for the purposes of generating reports and global editing activ-ities. Distributed terminals belong to the same terminal function if they havethe same function definition, the same identifying DT, the same terminal des-ignation, and the same level number.

Same designations within multi-level terminalsTo allow for identical terminal designations within multi-level terminals in con-nection with offline numbering, you can now use the new Terminal strips:Allow same designations in multi-level terminals (ID 20290) property onterminal strips.

This activated property is used to specify whether a terminal designationwithin amulti-level terminal may occur several times. In other words, severallevels may have the same terminal designation. In such a case, it is possibleto have a -X2:1 terminal on level 1 and a terminal of the same designation-X2:1 on level 2. Such a placement will not be reported as an error by thecheck runmessage 001005 "Terminal of the same name usedmultipletimes."

If the property is deactivated, the terminal designationmust be unique foreach level.


Same designations within multi-level terminals

Effects of numbering on terminalsThis property affects the numbering of terminals via theNumber terminalsdialog, provided that you number the terminals according to the "Numeric"scheme. If the property is activated, all terminals of amulti-level terminal aregiven the same terminal designation during numbering.

If you number the terminals according to the "Device definition" or "Initiators"schemes, the Terminal strips: Allow same designations within multi-level terminals property will not affect the numbering.

The setting "Keep alphabetical elements" (in the Terminals with alpha-betical characters field in theNumber terminals dialog) is given priorityover the Terminal strips: Allow same designations within multi-levelterminals property.

Online numberingThe behavior of online numbering has also been changed. For example, iftwo terminals of the same designation (-X4:5 and -X4:5) are copied, bothwill be given the same designation again (e.g., -X5:1 and -X5:1) after beingpasted with numbering.


Extended Reports for Terminals

Extended Reports for TerminalsOutput all connection points of a terminal in a rowIn terminal diagrams, you can now output all connection points of a terminalside by side in a row of the cable chart. For this to be considered for the pur-poses of the report, the placeholders for the terminal diagram forms havebeen extended.

Benefit: Thanks to the extended report functions, the design of terminaldiagrams can now be evenmore individual. Information can bedisplayedmore transparently, and in an easy-to-read andspace-savingmanner. This way, all downstream project steps,such asmanufacturing andmounting, can be supplied with allkey project information regarding wiring and cabling in an opti-mal and compact manner. But in the area of maintenance andrepairs, too, our colleagues can now access the necessary con-nection information thanks to extended reports.

New placeholder elementsIn terminal diagram forms, you will now find thePlaceholder texts - Ter-minal diagram dialog with the following new placeholder elements for thedata area of the cable chart:

l Connection / cable via connection pointl Connection via connection pointl Target via connection point.


Output all connection points of a terminal in a row

Using these placeholder elements, you can output the properties of the cable/ connection / function (target) that is connected to the nth terminal con-nection point. As such, the index [n] indicates the connection point number ofthe terminal in the order in which the connection points are defined on thesymbol.

This way, for example, the names of the target connection points can be out-put side by side in a row for all connection points of a terminal. For this type ofoutput, youmust customize your terminal diagram form accordingly (drawingcolumns for the connection points, inserting placeholder texts with place-holder elements, etc.).

Example:Excerpt from the data area of a terminal diagram: The connection points,placed in a distributedmanner in the schematic, of the distributed terminals-X6:1 and -X6:2with the connection point designations A, C, B, and D are out-put in a row.

For the terminal connection point C, for example, the following values are dis-played for the "targets" connected to this terminal connection point:



Value Meaning Placeholder text in the formV1C Color / number of the

connectionConnection via connection point [3] /Connection color / number

1C Connection point des-ignation of the target

Target via connection point [3] /Name of target connection point

K1C Voltage of the cable Connection / cable via connectionpoint [3] / Cable: Voltage

(Note: In the example, the colors of the layers for forms and placeholder textswere converted to black to improve legibility.)

New propertyIn addition, the two placeholder elementsCable chart data area externalandCable chart data area internal have been extended to include the newConnection: Associated terminal connection point (connection pointdesignation) (ID 31118) property.

This property can be used in terminal diagrams in the data area of the cablechart. When generating a report of the respective terminal diagram form, itoutputs the connection point designation of the terminal to which the con-nection is connected. Thus, you can see from the cable chart which con-nection (e.g., cable conductor) is to be connected to which terminalconnection point.

For example, this is helpful if you use the new placeholder elements Targetvia connection point,Connection via connection point orConnection /cable via connection point to output several terminal connection points in arow.



Example:Another excerpt from the same terminal diagram: From the placeholder textCable chart data area external / Connection: Associated terminal con-nection point (connection point designation), which is also inserted in theterminal diagram form, you can tell that the V1C cable conductor of the -W1Ccable is connected to the terminal connection point with the designation cand that the V1A cable conductor of the -W1A cable is connected to the ter-minal connection point with the designation a.


Special Topics EPLAN Pro Panel Professional

Special Topics EPLAN Pro Panel ProfessionalNote:

EPLANPro Panel Professional is optionally available both as an add-on var-iant for EPLANElectric P8 Select and EPLANElectric P8 Professional andas a stand-alone system.

EPLANVersion 2.1 represents our new solution "EPLANPro Panel Pro-fessional" for you. "EPLANPro Panel Professional" stands for customizedenclosure engineering and enclosure construction in automation technology.Electrical engineering planning, 3Dmounting layout, manufacturing, andmountingmerge, through a uniform data basis, to form a fully integrated solu-tion.

For this service pack, a few new features have been realized in the area ofdatamigration of EPLANCabinet data. In addition, some of the new featuresthat also concern EPLANPro Panel Professional have already been de-scribed in the sections "Dimensioning using centers" (see page "9") and"NewFeatures in the "EPLANPro Panel" ExtensionModule" (see page"28").

Data Transfer from EPLAN CabinetData transfer of Cabinet projects including connectionsDuring the data transfer of a project from EPLANCabinet to a new platformproject, the connections contained in the EPLANCabinet project are alsoimported now.

Benefit: Routing results determined in EPLANCabinet can be re-usedon a 1:1 basis without any additional effort in EPLANPro PanelProfessional.


Data transfer of Cabinet projects including connections

Note:During the data transfer of EPLANCabinet projects to an existing platformproject, the connections from Cabinet are still not imported. The connectionsin the platform project have priority and remain unchanged.

In EPLANPro Panel Professional, the import of EPLANCabinet projects isimplemented via theUtilities > Data transfer > EPLAN Cabinet > Projectmenu path. At this point, the following properties are carried over to the con-nections:

l Source (ID 31019)l Target (ID 31020)l Part number of the connection (ID 20100)l Cross-section / diameter (ID 31002)l Connection color / number (ID 31004)l Connection designation (ID 31011).

The imported connections are not routed automatically. These connectionsare then available in the new platform project as non-routed routing con-nections.

The properties of connections already routed in EPLANCabinet are also car-ried over to the EPLAN platform. Based on these properties, it is possible toexport the non-routed connections of the platform project – without furtherrouting – to a wire fabricationmachine directly. For this purpose, it is nec-essary to define the required settings for themachinesmanually only once inEPLANPro Panel Professional. There is no data transfer of these settingsfrom EPLANCabinet.


Import directory structure of EPLAN Cabinet graphical macros

Import directory structure of EPLAN Cabinet graphical macrosUpon data transfer via theUtilities > Data transfer > EPLAN Cabinet >Graphical macromenu path, themaster data (graphical macros, enclosuretemplates, enclosure items) is imported in a new or existing EPLANmacroproject. Using the corresponding setting, EPLAN platform 3Dmacros aregenerated from EPLANCabinet graphical macros automatically.

Many users have set up a number of subdirectories below the EPLANCabinet graphical macro directory in order to structure the graphical macrosin ameaningful way. The new version now allows you to import these exist-ing Cabinet directory structures during the data transfer.

Benefit: Using this new function, you can restore for the EPLAN plat-form themacro and directory structures already defined inEPLANCabinet.

For this purpose, theEPLAN Cabinet data import - Graphical macrodialog has been extended to include theAutomatically restore EPLANCabinet directory structure check box.

If this check box is activated, the directory structure of the EPLANCabinetgraphical macro is restored automatically in the file path of the EPLANmacro. In such a case, theDestination for macros setting is deactivated inthe dialog, and themacros are generated in the default macro directory. Inthe process, themacros are stored in the directory structure defined inEPLANCabinet.

Note:For the existing Cabinet directory structure for macros to be restored duringthe data transfer of EPLANCabinet graphical macros, youmust have storedthe graphical macros below the default Cabinet directory for macros\ECDTriga4\Macros.


Import directory structure of EPLAN Cabinet graphical macros

Example:The EPLANCabinet graphical macro Base1, by way of an example, is to beimported to the EPLAN platform (e.g., EPLANElectric P8). The followingrequirements apply:

l File path and name of the graphical macro in EPLANCabinet:Q:\Cabinet_Data\ECDTriga4\Macros\Rittal\Base\100

\Base1.zei

l EPLANmaster data directory on a network drive:T:\EPLAN_Data

l Customer code:ESS

l Setting in theDestination for macros field:$(MD_MACROS)\Pro Panel

The check box is not activated. After the data transfer, the following appliesfor themacro:T:\EPLAN_Data\Macros\ESS\Pro Panel\Base1.ema

The check box is activated. After the data transfer, the following applies forthemacro:T:\EPLAN_Data\Macros\ESS\Rittal\Base\100\Base1.ema


Special Topics EPLAN PPE

Special Topics EPLAN PPEUpdating EPLAN PPE MacrosMacros containing EPLANPPE functions (e.g., PCT loops, PCT loop ele-ments, page sections with P&I diagram data, etc.) can now also be updated.This concerns both theUpdate macro popupmenu item, which has beenavailable since Version 2.1 on themacro boxes of insertedmacros, and theXGedUpdateMacroAction action for the automated updating of macros.

Benefit: Themacros inserted in a project can be updated quickly andwithout further interaction by the user following a revision. Theupdate can be automated for the entire project. This way, youcan import specific modifications from themacromaster datainto current projects, and secure the quality of your projects per-manently through high-quality templates.

Improved Macros for Designing PCT LoopsWhenmacros are created with PCT loop elements, the part numbersassigned to a device specification are now stored in the respectivemacro aswell. This helped address assignment problems that had occurred whendrawing PCT loops viamacros. It may be necessary to re-save your old mac-ros or to output them from your macro project again, so that this modificationcan take effect.


New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension" Extension Module

New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension"Extension Module

Note:The "EPLANAPI Extension" extensionmodule is available as an option aspart of our EPLANAPIDeveloperNetwork (EADN) as a developer's pack-age for the program variants EPLANElectric P8 Professional, EPLANFluid,and EPLANPPE.

A unified, and especially high-performance, programming interface (API,ApplicationProgramming Interface) is available for EPLAN platform prod-ucts. This extensionmodule – the EPLANAPI – allows you to develop yourown customized solutions in collaboration with EPLAN or other partners. Formore information on EPLANAPI and the EADN, visit the EPLANwebpagesunder the heading "Services > EPLANAPI Developer Network".

The following section provides information on the various new features ofEPLANAPI. To use the newEPLANAPI version to develop your own appli-cations, you will require theMicrosoft .NET Framework 4.0.

Determine symbol graphic of symbol variantsIn EPLANAPI it is now also possible to determine the symbol graphic of sym-bol variants in stored symbol libraries. The new SubPlacements propertyhas been added to the SymbolVariant class for this purpose. Using the newConnectionPoints property from the same class, you can additionally deter-mine the position and direction of the connection points.

DXF / DWG export of several pagesUsing EPLANAPI you can now also export several pages in the DXF / DWGformat. The new DxfDwgPagesmethod in the HEServices.Export class isavailable for this.


New Features in the "EPLAN API Extension" Extension Module

Several pages can now also be output in connection with a DXF / DWGexport via the export action. In the process, the names of the pages to beexported are stated bymeans of the PAGENAMEn parameter ("n" is an integervalue, e.g., /PAGENAME1:=EB3+ET1/2 /PAGENAME2:=EB3+ET4/4, etc.).

Example:A command line call for the export action could look like this, for example:

EPLAN.exe /Variant:"Electric P8" export /TYPE:DXFPAGE

/PROJECTNAME:"C:\Users\Public\EPLAN\Electric P8\Projects\

Company code\EPLAN-DEMO.elk" /PAGENAME1:=EB3+ET1/2

/PAGENAME2:=EB3+ET4/4 /EXPORTSCHEME:"Default"

Access to values of EPLAN PPE propertiesUsing the newEPLANAPI, you can now also set and generate reports on thespecified values of EPLANPPE properties. For this purpose, the Valuesproperty in the Eplan.EplApi.Ppe namespace of the Property class hasbeen extended.


Other New Features and Information

Other New Features and InformationCustomer Queries and Messages

Note:Please note that the following EPLAN service is not possible in all countries.

A large number of your queries and wishes have contributed to the new ver-sion of the EPLAN platform. Please note that not all subjects can be listedwithin the scope of this document. You can, however, query the status ofyour message ("issue") with us at any time.

Login to EPLANSupport on the Internet (software service customers only)and, within our support area, click the Login Call-Tracking hyperlink underCall tracking. The "EPLANSupport Call Tracking" page will now open inyour browser.


http://www.eplan.de/tracking.php?TRACKING_LINK=987ad69098a9c323b1f3cbaf82a8f645&issue_no=xxxxxx



Customer Queries and Messages

You need the following information to log on here:

l Username (= your last name)l The first five digits of your Software service number.

After filling out the form, confirm this information by clicking [Login].

In the Issue No. field on the next page, enter the issue number that you weregiven by support and click [Search].


Customer Queries and Messages

Youwill be redirected to your message. This will show you an overview ofyour support query.


Validation Code

Validation CodeIf you already have an activation of Version 2.1, then you do not need a newvalidation code.

Users with activations for older EPLAN versions, on the other hand, do needa new validation code. This is provided on the delivery note sent with yourstoragemedium. In addition, you have the option of retrieving the validationcode via the internet (see the following section).

Retrieving the validation code onlineEPLAN enables you to carry out the final installation step quickly and easilyby allowing you to retrieve the validation code required for licensing via theinternet. After the required data have been transmitted, the validation code isautomatically copied into the license dialog.

Note:Please note that youmust be connected to the internet to download the val-idation code. You cannot retrieve a validation code for network licenses orlicenses without a dongle.

TheEnter validation code dialog has been enhanced to allow you theoption of retrieving the validation code online.

This dialog, for example, opens when you start the application for the firsttime after an installation. Click the new [Retrieve online] button.


Retrieving the validation code online

TheCompany name andSerial number are automatically entered into theopenSet validation code online dialog. This data is needed to retrieve thevalidation code successfully.

Up-to-date informationIf you would like to receive information in the future (such as our eNews-letter), please select the I would like to receive further information checkbox. EPLANwill then save your personal details (Name, Phone, E-mailaddress, etc.).

Internet settingsThe settings for the existing internet connection are adopted by default. Youcan also use a proxy server as a network component via the [Settings] but-ton and the dialog that then opens. If this is the case, youmust enter thecorresponding information onAddress, Port, etc. Please consult with youradministrator about the settings in this area.

Returning the validation codeClick [Send] to send the encoded data to EPLAN. If your details are alreadyheld by EPLAN and are valid, a validation code is created and sent to thelicense dialog. Then start the application by clicking [OK].


Installation

InstallationInstallation using the EPLAN ManagerEPLAN program variants and add-ons are now, starting with Version 2.1,installed using the newEPLANSetupManager.

Improved ergonomics and a user-friendly user interface will assist you in theinstallation. The EPLANSetupManager displays all basic information on theindividual installation steps in the dialog window. If necessary, you can start adetail view andmodify the default settings.


Installation using the EPLAN Manager

Even though this installation program is significantly different from the pre-vious installation wizard in "look and feel", most of the settings will be familiarto you (e.g., the definition of the target directories).

Division in installation bundlesAnother new feature in the EPLANSetupManager is the division of programfeatures and the data to be installed (master data, languagemodules, etc.)into several installation bundles.

Thus, there is now a common installation bundle for the program core of allprogram variants – the program files of the EPLAN platform. The files (e.g.,W3u.exe) are installed in a new shared program directory with the des-ignation Platform. With theWindows Vista andWindows 7 operating sys-tems, the default directory is:

l \Program Files\EPLAN\Platform (32-bit version)l \Program Files (x86)\EPLAN\Platform (64-bit version).

InWindows XP, the default directory is \Program Files\EPLAN\Platform.

Benefit: l The division in several installation bundles allows for the spe-cific updating of program files. Given the well-defined datasize of such a bundle, possible corrections or the data of aHotfix, for example, can be downloaded quickly and easilyfrom the Internet (patchmethod).

l Since the EPLAN program variants use the program files ofthe EPLAN platform, computers on which several EPLANproducts are installed require lessmemory. A downloadedpatch for the EPLAN platform is then effective for all EPLANprogram variants installed.



In addition, for each program variant, for each add-on, for the EPLANLicense Client, as well as for themaster data, there are separate installationbundles.

Customized installationYouwill notice that when you opt for the customized installation and click the[Customized installation] button in the relevant installation dialog. Sub-sequently, the tableProgram features is revealed.

For example, if you install EPLANElectric P8 – as shown in the figure – thefollowing five installation bundles will be displayed as program features:

l EPLAN License Client:installation bundle for licensing.

l EPLAN Electric P8 2.1 SP1:installation bundle for the program files of the program variant.



l EPLAN Electric P8 Addon 2.1 SP1:installation bundle for the original EPLANmaster data of the program var-iant.

l EPLAN Platform 2.1 SP1:installation bundle for the program files of the EPLAN platform.

l EPLAN Platform Addon 2.1 SP1:installation bundle for non-project-specific original EPLANmaster data ofthe EPLAN platform.

Note:Please note that the installation bundles are all installed, together with theprogram files, in the same program directory. So when you install a furtherEPLAN program variant, youmust also select this program directory.

Here, and this is yet another innovation, additional information such as theversion number or status of a program feature is displayed. This way, youcan see, for example, which program features have already been installed.Features that may have been forgotten in an earlier installation can now beinstalled.

The program files of an EPLAN program variant are still installed in a sep-arate program directory. Thus, the files for EPLANElectric P8 (e.g.,install.xml) are stored below the following directory by default when usingtheWindows Vista andWindows 7 operating systems:

l \Program Files\EPLAN\Electric P8 (32 Bit-Version)l \Program Files(x86)\EPLAN\Electric P8 (64 Bit-Version).

For theWindows XP operating system, the files are stored below the fol-lowing directory by default: \Program Files\EPLAN\Electric P8.



Master data and languagesIn order to select themaster data as well as the interface and online-help lan-guages, click the [Master data and languages] button. You can thenmakeyour selection in the expanded tablesMaster data types, Language mod-ules andHelp system languages.

The language displayed in theActivated field is the language that is presetas the interface language / help system language at the initial start of therespective program variant. If you have activated the check boxes for severallanguages in the Language modules andHelp system languages tables,you can select one of these languages as the "start language" in the respec-tiveActivated drop-down list.

Start installationIf by clicking the respective check box you have deactivated an absolutelynecessary program feature for the installation, the EPLANSetupManagerwill display a correspondingmessage. This will prevent an incomplete instal-lation.

Click the [Install] button to start the installation. After the installation hasbeen completed, exit the EPLANSetupManager by clicking the [Finish] but-ton.

Notes:l Themaster data are installed using the add-onmethod. For this reason,the corresponding installation bundles in the EPLANSetupManager arealso called "Addon".

l In the respective installed EPLAN program variant, therefore, themasterdata are displayed also as registered add-ons in theAdd-ons dialog.Also during the synchronization of master data in theMaster data syn-chronization - system master data dialog, themaster data are listed intheSource field as add-ons.



UninstallingIf, for example, you double-click the entry "EPLANElectric P8 2.1 SP1" in therespective uninstall dialog of the control panel, the EPLANSetupManager isalso launched.

Using the EPLANSetupManager, you can uninstall all EPLAN program fea-tures collectively or individually. Select the program features to be removedand click [Remove].

Program features that do not represent a program variant (e.g., "EPLANPlat-form 2.1 SP1" or "EPLANElectric P8 Addon 2.1 SP1") are displayed in theControl Panel, but cannot be uninstalled individually. The [Remove] buttonor theUninstallmenu item will not be available for the respective entry in theControl Panel.


Software Requirements and Approvals

Software Requirements and ApprovalsAll release information refers to the 32-bit version of the products, unlessstated otherwise.

General requirementsTheMicrosoft .NET framework 4.0 is required to operate the EPLAN plat-form. Further information and the latest version of .NET framework are avail-able for download from theMicrosoft website.

You will find .NET Framework 4.0 on your EPLAN storagemedium. Switch tothe following directory:

cd-rom\Services\Net Framework 4.0\en_US

To install .NET Framework, double-click the fileDotNetFx40_Full_x86_x64.exe.

Operating systemsEPLAN recommends that a 64 bit Windows operating system is used. TheEPLAN platform has been cleared for the following operating systems:

Workstationl Microsoft Windows XPProfessional SP3 (32 bit)

l Microsoft Windows Vista SP2 (32 bit and 64 bit)Enterprise, Business N, Ultimate

l Microsoft Windows 7 SP1 (32 bit and 64 bit)Professional, Enterprise, Ultimate

Serverl Microsoft Windows Server 2003 SP2 (32 bit and 64 bit)l Microsoft Windows Server 2008 SP2 (32 bit and 64 bit)l Microsoft Windows Server 2008 RC2 (64 bit)


Microsoft products

Microsoft productsl Microsoft Office 2007 (32 bit)l Microsoft Office 2010 (32 bit)l Microsoft Internet Explorer 8l Microsoft Internet Explorer 9

SQL serverl Microsoft SQL Server 2005 SP2l Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2

Autodesk productsl AutoCADMechanical 2011 (32 bit und 64 bit)l AutoCADMechanical 2012 (32 bit und 64 bit)l Autodesk Productstream Professional 2011l Autodesk Productstream Professional 2012l Autodesk Vault 2011

PDF redliningl Adobe Reader Version 9l Adobe Reader Version X

PLC systems (PLC & bus extension)l Beckhoff TwinCAT 2.10l Beckhoff TwinCAT 2.11l Phoenix Contact PCWorx 6l Rockwell RSLogix professional 18l Schneider Unity Pro 4.0l Schneider Unity Pro 5.0l Siemens SIMATICSTEP 7 version 5.4 SP4l Siemens SIMATICSTEP 7 version 5.5


Unsupported operating systems

Unsupported operating systemsWindows 2000 ProfessionalThe EPLAN platform no longer supports theWindows 2000 Professionaloperating system that is no longer supported byMicrosoft.

Windows 2000 ServerThe EPLAN platform no longer supports theWindows 2000 Server operatingsystem that is no longer supported byMicrosoft. Microsoft has ceased officialsupport for this operating system.

Note:Further information on the life cycle of operating systems is available on theMicrosoft website.

Other software that is no longer supportedInterface cards for parallel donglesStarting with Version 2.0 SP 1, the EPLAN platform comes with a new dongledriver. Because of the enhanced technology in the newMicrosoft operatingsystems (Windows 7 andWindows Server 2008), this dongle driver nolonger supports interface cards (PCI cards). For this reason, interface cardsfor parallel dongles are no longer supported by the current version of theEPLAN platform.


Hardware Requirements

Hardware RequirementsWorkstation hardware requirementsThe computer platform is a PCwith an Intel Pentium 4 or compatible proc-essor.

If you are using a processor that dates to before 2005, check whether thisprocessor supports SSE2 command sets. The "CPU-Z" program allows youto do this. This program can be downloaded free of charge fromhttp://www.cpuid.com/.

The introduction of the enhanced command set SSE2 (StreamingSIMDExtensions 2) started with the Intel Pentium 4 in 2001. In the case of AMDprocessors, this enhancement was introduced with the Athlon 64 in 2005. Ifyou use a computer system from Intel, the CPU should have beenman-ufactured after 2002. In the case of AMDprocessors, the CPU should benewer than 2005.

Recommended workstation configurationProcessor: Comparable to an Intel Pentium D at 3 GHz or com-

parable to an Intel Core 2 Duo at 2.4 GHzRAM: 4GB*1

Hard disk: 160GBMonitor / graph-ics resolution:

2-screen solution 21" or 16:10 graphics system with a res-olution of 1680 x 1050

3D display: Graphics card from ATI or Nvidia with the latest OpenGLdriver

*1: Individual functions like PDF or DXF output requiremorememory in connectionwith projects

or very extensive graphics.


http://www.cpuid.com/

Minimum net requirements

Minimum net requirementsAs stated in the software requirements and performance, only operate theserver with aMicrosoft Windows operating system.

Net transfer rate of the server: 1 Gbits/sNet transfer rate of the client computer: 100Mbits/sRecommended latency: < 1ms

Minimum multiuser requirementsWith regard tominimum requirements for multiuser operation, please con-tact EPLANSupport. We can advise you specifically according to your individ-ual requirements.


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