FactoryTalk VantagePoint v3.1 Design Considerations Rev3-1-5

FactoryTalk VantagePoint Design Considerations
FactoryTalk VantagePoint v3.1
Best practices for designing and implementing FactoryTalk VantagePoint
FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
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FactoryTalk VantagePoint v3.1 Design Considerations Rev. 3.1.5
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Table of Contents
FactoryTalk VantagePoint Design Considerations ............................................................................................. 1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................... 5 Using this Document ............................................................................................................................................ 5 Product Version Information ............................................................................................................................... 5 Document Naming Conventions/Abbreviations................................................................................................. 5 Prerequisite Reading............................................................................................................................................. 6 Document Revision History................................................................................................................................. 6 Whats New in FactoryTalk VantagePoint V3.1? .............................................................................................. 6 Known Issues ........................................................................................................................................................ 6 Introduction to FactoryTalk VantagePoint.............................................................................................................. 7 Architectural Considerations.................................................................................................................................... 7 Selecting the Correct VantagePoint Version ...................................................................................................... 8 FactoryTalk VantagePoint Licensing .................................................................................................................. 8 FactoryTalk VantagePoint Secuirty .................................................................................................................. 11 Reference Architectures ..................................................................................................................................... 12 Reference Station Architectures ........................................................................................................................ 15 Recommended Platform Requirements................................................................................................................. 16 Installing a New Operating System on Computers .......................................................................................... 16 Operating System Tips ....................................................................................................................................... 16 Windows Error Reporting .................................................................................................................................. 17 Internet Information Server (IIS) ....................................................................................................................... 17 Network Configuration........................................................................................................................................... 17 WAN/Wireless Communications ...................................................................................................................... 17 Firewall Communications .................................................................................................................................. 17 Workgroup vs. Domain .......................................................................................................................................... 17 Domain Best Practices............................................................................................................................................ 18 Windows Support Tools..................................................................................................................................... 19 Upgrading from Incuity EMI ................................................................................................................................. 19 Software Installation ............................................................................................................................................... 20 Installation on Drives Other Than C: ................................................................................................................ 20 FactoryTalk Directory ........................................................................................................................................ 20 Default File Locations for FactoryTalk VantagePoint ..................................................................................... 21 Post Installation Activities ..................................................................................................................................... 21 Post Release Patches .......................................................................................................................................... 21 Licensing ............................................................................................................................................................. 21 MSSQL Server Licensing .................................................................................................................................. 22 Installing FactoryTalk VantagePoint Clients .................................................................................................... 22 Backing up and Restoring FactoryTalk VantagePoint ......................................................................................... 23 Maintaining FactoryTalk VantagePoint Log Files ............................................................................................... 23 Using FactoryTalk VantagePoint Sample Content............................................................................................... 23 VantagePoint Compatibility ................................................................................................................................... 23 Controller Compatibility .................................................................................................................................... 23 Excel Compatibility ............................................................................................................................................ 23 FactoryTalk Historian SE Redundancy Support .............................................................................................. 24
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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Using FactoryTalk VantagePoint to Store Tags ................................................................................................... 24 System Redundancy ............................................................................................................................................... 24 System Security ...................................................................................................................................................... 24 Windows Terminal Services .................................................................................................................................. 25 Time Synchronization ............................................................................................................................................ 25 Troubleshooting ...................................................................................................................................................... 26 Tools and Utilities................................................................................................................................................... 26 Additional Reference Links ................................................................................................................................... 27 General ................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Communications ................................................................................................................................................. 27 Design Considerations and Best Practices ........................................................................................................ 27 Microsoft ............................................................................................................................................................. 27
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Introduction
This document is a supplement to the FactoryTalk VantagePoint documentation that is installed with the software. It is designed to make system developers aware of the fundamental best-practice guidelines for designing and implementing a FactoryTalk VantagePoint application. If you are unfamiliar with the Integrated Architecture, FactoryTalk Services Platform, or FactoryTalk VantagePoint, reference the following Product Profiles and websites prior to reading this document: FactoryTalk Services Platform and Integrated Architecture: FactoryTalk Services Platform Product Profile http://www.rockwellautomation.com/rockwellsoftware/factorytalk/integrated.html FactoryTalk VantagePoint: FactoryTalk VantagePoint Product Profile http://www.rockwellautomation.com/rockwellsoftware/performance/vantagepoint/ (Includes ordering information) Answer ID 61808 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint Frequently Asked Questions
Using this Document

This document is intended to be a starting point and reference guide for the design of FactoryTalk VantagePoint systems. It is designed to make system designers and developers aware of the fundamental best practice guidelines of FactoryTalk VantagePoint systems.
Product Version Information

This document covers both versions of FactoryTalk VantagePoint: FactoryTalk VantagePoint and FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI. The differences between these versions are discussed in the section in this document on Selecting the Correct VantagePoint Version. While most sections is this document apply to both versions of FactoryTalk VanatagePoint, some sections will apply only to FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI. The sections which only apply to FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI will be clearly labeled as FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI Only.
Document Naming Conventions/Abbreviations

Throughout the document the terms FactoryTalk VantagePoint and VantagePoint will be used. Unless otherwise specified, these terms will apply to both FactoryTalk VantagePoint and FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI versions. Frequently throughout this document, the user will be directed to more information in the form of Answer IDs (AIDs). These are technical papers created by Rockwell Automation and posted on the Rockwell Automation Knowledgebase, accessible here: http://www.rockwellautomation.com/knowledgebase. Some AIDs are available to the public, however access to certain AIDs (with a padlock icon) require the elevated status of a TechConnect contract. For additional information on obtaining a TechConnect contract, contact your Rockwell Automation sales representative.
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Prerequisite Reading
The following VantagePoint related document is included with the product and should be considered prerequisite reading for this document: The FactoryTalk VantagePoint Getting Results Guide provided with the VantagePoint installation materials. See www.Incuity.com for updated information.
Additionally, the FactoryTalk VanagePoint Help content located by browsing to Start All Programs Rockwell Software FactoryTalk VantagePoint Help on the VantagePoint Server is a comprehensive resource for VantagePoint information and procedures.
Document Revision History

Revision 1.0 (7/2009): Initial release for v3.0 Revision 1.1 (8/2009): Update for v3.0.2. Revision 2.0 (9/2009): Update for v3.1 Revision 3.1 (11/2009): Update for v3.1 Revision 3.1.5 (03/2011): Update for 3.1.5
Whats New in FactoryTalk VantagePoint V3.1?

VantagePoint EMI - FactoryTalk VantagePoint 3.1 is a release of both VantagePoint and VantagePoint EMI. The installations of these two products are identical and the licensing determines which features are enabled. Installation - VantagePoint and VantagePoint EMI share the same install. The DVD also now includes installation files for MS SQL 2005, RSLinx Enterprise, and the Dashboard builder Trend Title - The Trend tool now supports a mode where the currently selected tag is the trend heading. Excel Add-In Function Wizard - Excel Add-In Function has a new Database Query wizard to facilitate the use of Linked Queries. Upgrade - Users can upgrade from VantagePoinit v3.0 and v3.0.2 to v3.1. FactoryTalk Historian Connector - VantagePoint now includes a standalone connector capable of connecting to multiple FactoryTalk Historian instances in multiple FactoryTalk directories. Historian Tags - Boolean and Discrete FactoryTalk Live Data tags are correctly correlated with FactoryTalk Historian digital tags Importing Unknown Types (LiveData, OPC-DA & OPC-HAD) - If VantagePoint cannot determine the type of tag while importing, it creates an XML file that contains a list of tags with unknown types. The XML file can be updated and imported. Instance Packages - Users can not import Instance Packages without performing an IISReset. Internet Explorer 8.0 - Internet Explorer 8.0 is now supported Sample Content - New and imporoved Sample Content
Known Issues
Known issues in this release can be found in the document KnownIssues.htm provided with the FactoryTalk VantagePoint installation.
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Introduction to FactoryTalk VantagePoint

FactoryTalk VantagePoint provides unified access to virtually all manufacturing/plant data sources, and produces web-based reports, such as dashboards, trends, X-Y plots, Microsoft Excel reports and more that can be used by manufacturing operators, engineers, supervisors, management and executives throughout a plant to manage cost, quality, production, assets and resources more effectively. A typical VantagePoint system consists of the following hardware and software components:
Architectural Considerations
A typical FactoryTalk VantagePoint system consists of several Windows-based computers and various Programmable Automation Controllers interconnected via one or more networks. To insure proper operation for VantagePoint, these foundation components of the system must be operating properly: When using live data communication, the Programmable Automation Controllers must be properly programmed and configured for efficient communications. For example: the processors communications time slice may need to be increased. The network(s) must be robust and free of communications errors and bottlenecks. For example, the ports on switches and the network interface cards on computers should typically be changed from Auto Detect to a fixed setting.
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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS The computers must be configured appropriately for the application. For example, power saving features on servers should typically be disabled. Firewalls may need to be turned off, or configured with exceptions.
For additional information on these topics, refer to Ethernet Design Considerations for Control System Networks.
Selecting the Correct VantagePoint Version

VantagePoint comes in two versions -VantagePoint and VantagePoint EMI. VantagePoint (non-EMI) allows users to connect to live data sources through the OPCDA and FactoryTalk LiveData connectors. Connectivity to process historians can be made through the OPCHDA connector or using specific connectors for the FactoryTalk Historian, Wonderware's Industrial SQL Server, OSI PI and GE Proficy. VantagePoint EMI allows users to connect to all of the same data sources above, but also adds the ability to connect to Database servers such as MS SQL Server and Oracle. Connectivity to other OLEDB and ODBC data sources are also possible through VantagePoint EMI.
FactoryTalk VantagePoint FactoryTalk Live Data FactoryTalk Historian Wonderware Industrial SQL Server OSI PI GE Proficy OPCHDA Connector MSSQL Database Server Oracle OLEDB Data Sources ODBC Data Sources Named User Limit Concurrent User Limit Incuity Tag Storage Limit Calculated Tag Storage Limit Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No No 25 5 50 50 FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited
Note: Connections to non-FactoryTalk Data Sources may require additional licensing.
FactoryTalk VantagePoint Licensing

FactoryTalk VantagePoint is licensed based on the number of users. There are two types of users:
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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Named Users: Named User Licenses are licenses which are explicitly assigned to a Windows User. Once assigned, the Windows user will own that license unless the named user is manually removed by a VantagePoint Administrator. A Named User will always be able to access the FactoryTalk VantagePoint system from a single client location. If Named Users attempt to login to multiple clients simultationsly they will be denied access to the system. If named user licenses are not assigned while setting up a VantagePoint system, the first time a user connects they will automatically be assigned a named user license. If all named user licenses are being used, that user will be unable to connect to VantagePoint. Once a named user is assigned, it does not expire and onlyVantagePoint administrators can add or remove named users. Concurrent Users: Concurrent User licensing allows users who are not Named Users to access the system. A Windows user who accesses the system and is not a Named User will automatically use a Concurrent User license (if all Named Users licenses are already taken). When the Windows user logs off the system, the Concurrent License will be released. If a Windows user is not a Named User and no Concurrent User licences are available, the user will not be able to log in to the system.
Named Users are typically used to ensure that an individual is able to access the system at any time. Setting up Named Users during initial system implementation is highly recommended. Licenses can be added together (i.e. (2) 5 named user licenses on the same server would allow 10 named users). For licensing information, see FactoryTalk VantagePoint Ordering Information.
Portal Authentication Process

VantagePoint Portal Opened
Is the user a known Windows User to the VantagePoint server?
No
Prompt for Credentials
Yes
Are the credentials Valid?
No
Deny Login Access
Yes
Login to Portal
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Trend or Manager Authentication Process

Trend or Manager Opened
Is the user a known Windows User to the VantagePoint server?
No
Prompt for Credentials
Yes
Are the credentials Valid?
No
Deny Login Access
Yes
Is the User a Named User?
No
Is there a Named User License Available?

Yes
No
Is there a Concurrent User License Available?

Yes
No
Yes
Note: Inactive Concurrent Users will be logged out after 20 minutes
Assign Named User license to Windows User
Assign Concurrent User license to Windows User
Is the Named User logged into another PC?

Yes
No
Login to Trend or Manager
Deny Login Access
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FactoryTalk VantagePoint Secuirty

It is important to understand how FactoryTalk VantagePoint security is implemented when designing a VantagePoint system. FactoryTalk VantagePoint uses FactoryTalk security for accessing the FactoryTalk Directory for FactoryTalk Historian SE Data or FactoryTalk Live Data. FactoryTalk security is not used for handling user security for FactoryTalk VantagePoint at this time; all user security requests are handled by the FactoryTalk VantagePoint server. User security settings are administered in the FactoryTalk VantagePoint Manager.
Role Based Security

FactoryTalk VantagePoint uses role-based security which allows access rights to be assigned to system users based on the roles they would play within the system. VantagePoint implements a role-based security system assuming Windows authentication of users/groups (using either Domain or Local Windows security). VantagePoint comes with 6 pre-configured Roles. During the VantagePoint install any user assigned to the Windows Administrator group, Windows Power User group, or Windows User group for Domain or Local accounts will be added to the corresponding VantagePoint Role.
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Reference Architectures
The number of computers needed in a FactoryTalk VantagePoint system is dependent on the number of users that will be connecting to FactoryTalk VantagePoint. The following reference architectures provide examples of a small, medium, and large VantagePoint system. Additionally, an example architecture which incorporates FactoryTalk Historian SE and FactoryTalk View SE has also been provided.
For small systems it is permissible to co-locate FactoryTalk VantagePoint and the database server on the same computer A Windows Workgroup environment is supported for small configurations. For more information see Workgroup vs. Domain
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FactoryTalk VantagePoint should be installed on a server separate from the database server if there will be more than 10 users or more than 100 total tags
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FactoryTalk VantagePoint should be installed on a server separate from the FactoryTalk Data server if there will be more than 20 total users or more than 1000 total tags (VantagePoint EMI Only)
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Installing the FactoryTalk VantagePoint server on a dedicated server separate from other Rockwell Software Products is highly recommended.
Reference Station Architectures

The products listed below can be located on the same server as FactoryTalk VanatagePoint for small system architectures. Please review the links below for station system limits and additional information: FactoryTalk Historian SE: For configuration details, see Answer ID 62869 - Using FactoryTalk Historian and FactoryTalk VantagePoint on a single host computer. FactoryTalk View SE: For configuration details, see Answer ID 64541 - Using FactoryTalk View SE and FactoryTalk VantagePoint on a single host computer.
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Recommended Platform Requirements

The hardware and software used with FactoryTalk VantagePoint depends on the demands of the application. The greater the demand, the more powerful a system is needed. For large or complex applications with high data access and storage needs, computers with faster CPUs and more RAM should be used for the server computer(s) (MSSQL and VantagePoint). In any application, faster CPUs and more RAM will result in better performance. In addition, there should always be sufficient disk space to provide virtual memory that is at least twice the size of the physical RAM. The MSSQL server computer should also have ample disk space available, particularly if storing calculated values as part of the VantagePoint solution. Refer to the FactoryTalk VantagePoint Quick Start Guide for the minimum system requirements. A link to this material can be found in Answer ID 61616 - Literature and links about FactoryTalk VantagePoint. Note: Some Microsoft operating system service packs and hot fixes might not be compatible with VantagePoint. To find out if there are any problems with a particular Microsoft update prior to applying it, refer to AID 35530 (Microsoft Patch Qualification) in the Rockwell Automation Knowledgebase. VantagePoint is tested on operating systems installed from original Microsoft media only.
Installing a New Operating System on Computers

Be sure to always install the computer vendor supported or recommended OS if upgrading or modifying your system. In some cases, there are not proper hardware drivers for a particular hardware/software combination. Using unsupported operating systems or drivers can cause the computer to be unstable. Obviously, if the OS is unstable, it is too much to ask for any applications running on it to be stable. Please be aware that computer manufacturers can make modifications to Operating Systems which may impact the installation or performance of our software products. It is recommended to use full versions of the intended operating system on all workstations.
Operating System Tips

The VantagePoint Server does not support Windows Server 2008 or Windows Vista. For the latest information about the software platforms supported by Rockwell Software products, refer to Answer ID 42682 Supported Platform/Hardware Compatibility Matrix. It is a requirement that all VantagePoint computers with a server role use a server OS (i.e., the VantagePoint Server, FactoryTalk Directory Server and the Live Data Server). Workstation operating systems like Windows XP and 2000 Professional should be avoided in the production environment as they have a 10 connection limit. VantagePoint is tested and supported on operating systems installed from original Microsoft media only. Using unsupported operating systems is not recommended. As a general rule, servers and clients should be in the same Windows OS vintage. For example, Windows 2000 clients should not be used with Windows 2003 servers.
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Windows Error Reporting

There is an error reporting feature included with Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 that can be used to report computer and program errors to Microsoft. There is currently no benefit to using this feature in a Rockwell Software environment, and disabling it is recommended. For additional information refer to Answer ID 42651- Instructions for disabling the Windows Error Reporting feature.
Internet Information Server (IIS)

Internet Information Server (IIS) is a required component for the FactoryTalk VantagePoint server; it is not required for FactoryTalk VantagePoint clients. IIS is a prerequisite for the VantagePoint server installation.
Network Configuration
In depth network design is outside the scope of this document. For detailed information on configuring a network, refer to the Ethernet Design and Implementation Guide. Its important to note that any network hosting FactoryTalk applications should use only managed switches.
WAN/Wireless Communications
Communications across anything slower than a 100mpbs, wired LAN can present negative impact on overall system performance. Aside from the question of network security, which is outside the scope of the document, two key factors are the speed and stability of the network. To mitigate problems due to signal interference or timeouts, it is strongly recommended to use Terminal Services to bridge any WAN/Wireless communications. See the Terminal Services section of this document for more information on implementing Terminal Services.
Firewall Communications
As the purpose of any firewall is to restrict port usage, a firewall should always be located at the entry/exit point of a network. This will prevent outside access to the network, while allowing unimpeded internal network communications. If it is required to access a FactoryTalk system through a firewall, it is strongly recommended to use Terminal Services. Terminal Services will only require one port to be opened in the firewall, whereas FactoryTalk communications will require many more, including the entire dynamic range of DCOM ports. See the Terminal Services section of this document for more information on implementing Terminal Services, or see AID 29402 for a list of ports used by FactoryTalk.
Workgroup vs. Domain

VantagePoint is supported in both domain and workgroup environments, within limits:
Workgroup
Decentralized Administration Advantages: No Domain Controller (Windows Server OS) to purchase. One less computer in network to maintain. Recommended only for small applications where user accounts dont change often.
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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Workgroup Rules: The system can consist of no more than 10 FactoryTalk computers. Name resolution must be configured using a DNS Server or by using Hosts files. All computers participating in a single FactoryTalk application must be members of the same Windows workgroup. All users participating in the workgroup must be members of the Administrators group. Create the same set of user accounts and passwords on every computer in a FactoryTalk application.
Domain
Centralized Administration Advantages: One place to manage Users, Groups and Security Automate IP addresses with Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), and Name Resolution and with Domain Name Service (DNS) and Windows Internet Name Service (WINS). Domain Rules: For applications consisting of more than 10 FactoryTalk computers, a domain controller is required. Rockwell Software components (including the FactoryTalk Services Platform) should not be installed on domain controllers.
Domain Best Practices

Extensive information on Microsoft domains is beyond the scope of this document. However, there are some key points that users of a FactoryTalk VantagePoint system in a Windows Domain should understand: FactoryTalk VantagePoint v3.0.2 supports the following domains: o Windows 2000 Server Active Directory (in Native or Mixed mode) o Windows Server 2003 Active Directory (in any functional level) Note: Windows 2000 Active Directory (AD) domains introduced the concept of a forest. A forest can consist of a single domain tree, or multiple domain trees. A domain tree can consist of a single domain (a.k.a. the parent domain) or multiple domains (a.k.a. the child domains). We recommend a single forest, single tree, and single domain configuration. In Windows Server 2003 Active Directory, both domains and forests have individual functional levels. We recommend the default functional levels: o Domain: Windows 2000 mixed o Forest: Windows 2000 To determine the Window 2000 domain mode, launch Active Directory "Domains and Trusts" (Start > All Programs > Administrative Tools), right-click the domain and select "Properties". To determine the Window 2003 functional levels, the identical procedure is used. It is recommended to select internal Microsoft Active Directory domain names carefully. An internal Microsoft Active Directory domain name should not be confused with an Internet (external) domain name, and while they can be the same name, typically they are not. Consult the local IT department or the Microsoft Best Practice Active Directory Deployment for more information.
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Windows 2000 Server & Windows Server 2003 Active Directory redundancy: It is recommended to implement at least 2 domain controllers, where both are configured with the Global Catalog (GC) role to provide high availability. By default, the GC role is only on the first domain controller in the forest, but it is possible to add the GC role on other domain controllers from the Active Directory Sites and Services console. Simply expand Sites > site name > Servers > server name, right-click NTDS Settings, and select Properties. The Global Catalog check box is on the General tab. Note: There are still a number of single instance domain controller roles that can result in a single point of failure. These 5 Flexible Single Master Operations (FSMO) roles are: 1. PDC Emulator (one per domain) 2. Infrastructure master (one per domain) 3. Relative ID (RID) master (one per domain) 4. Schema master (one per forest) 5. Domain naming master (one per forest) Time Synchronization should be configured throughout the domain. For additional information, refer to the section entitled Time Synchronization later in this document. Prior to deploying VantagePoint, both new and existing active directory domains should have their operation verified using Microsofts Domain Controller Diagnostics (Dcdiag.exe) utility. This utility is included with the Windows Support Tools located on the Operating System CD and also available via download from Microsoft. Rockwell Software does not support its software on computers configured as domain controllers. The following information comes from a Microsoft TechNet article posted at http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/windows2000serv/maintain/security/secdefs.mspx. The key sentence in this TechNote is "In general, Microsoft does not recommend running applications on computers configured as domain controllers, and certainly not applications that require more than Authenticated User privileges in order to run successfully." Installation of any application software on a domain controller can have adverse affects on the network and is the responsibility of the user to accept the risk.
Windows Support Tools

Microsoft provides numerous diagnostic tools for Domain Controllers, Active Directory and networking in general that must be installed after the operating system. To install the tools, browse the operating system CD (Windows XP and Server 2003) to \Support\Tools\ and run SupTools.Msi. To get an overview of the tools available, click Start > Programs > Windows Support Tools > Support Tools Help.
Upgrading from Incuity EMI

There is currently no upgrade path for Incuity EMI v2.x to the current release of VantagePoint. It is possible to upgrade from previous versions of VantagePoint. For more information and upgrade instructions, see Answer ID 59556 - Upgrading to FactoryTalk VantagePoint from Incuity EMI v2.x.
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Software Installation
Refer to the FactoryTalk VantagePoint Getting Results Guide for installation instructions. A link to the most up to date version of this material can be found in Answer ID 61616 - Literature and links about FactoryTalk VantagePoint. Additional recommendations are included below: Establish a systems computer names prior to installing the VantagePoint server. If the FactoryTalk VantagePoint server name needs to be changed follow the procedure in Answer ID 61897 - How to Change the VantagePoint/Incuity EMI Server Name Check the time and the time zone on all computers prior to installing the VantagePoint server. To maintain accurate time on all computers, use the Windows Time Service.
Installation on Drives Other Than C:

Installing FactoryTalk VantagePoint on drives other than C is not supported at this time.
FactoryTalk Directory
FactoryTalk VantagePoint makes use of a Network FactoryTalk Directory. VantagePoint uses the FactoryTalk directory to connect to FactoryTalk Live Data through Live Data servers. Connections to FactoryTalk Historian SE can be made using either the FactoryTalk Directory connection or a direct connection. For more information see the topic Add a FactoryTalk Historian Connector in the VantagePoint help documentation. The VantagePoint server must be part of the same FactoryTalk Directory as the Live Data servers in order to function correctly.
FactoryTalk Directory Location

The FactoryTalk VantagePoint server configures the FactoryTalk Directory that the host computer is associated with upon installation. After the VantagePoint server is installed, the FactoryTalk Directory can be changed using the Specify FactoryTalk Directory tool and then rebooting the VantagePoint server. For more information see Answer ID 21577 Changing the FactoryTalk Directory.
FactoryTalk Platform Compatibility

VantagePoint requires FactoryTalk Services Platform (FTSP) v2.10.01 (CPR9 SR1) or higher. With preexisting FT systems, this may require a system-wide FT upgrade. To determine the version of FTSP a system is using, refer to Answer ID 25612 How to Determine the version of the FactoryTalk Services Platform (FTSP) installed on your computers. For information on the currently supported FactoryTalk Services Platforms for VantagePoint, refer to Answer ID 59400 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint Tips and Best Practices TOC. Generally speaking, in a distributed FactoryTalk system using a Network FTD, it is imperative that all computers in the system are running the same FactoryTalk Services Platform release. Ideally, this also includes the applicable patches. FactoryTalk Services Platform releases up to v2.10 (CPR9) are incompatible with each other (e.g., v2.00 (CPR7) and v2.10 (CPR9) cannot co-exist on the same PC, and cannot communicate with each other across multiple PCs.)
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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS It is strongly recommended that all versions of the FactoryTalk Services Platform be consistent over the entire Network FactoryTalk Directory. See AID 58803 Network FactoryTalk Directory Best Practices for more information on setting up a FactoryTalk Directory.
FactoryTalk Services Platform Patch Levels

It is recommended to apply the same patch roll-up to all FactoryTalk PCs in the system using the patch rollup included on the Rockwell Knowledgebase. The link to patches for all released VantagePoint versions can be found in Answer ID 59149 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint Tips and Best Practices TOC under Patches.
Default File Locations for FactoryTalk VantagePoint

Core program files:
C:\Program Files\Incuity
VantagePoint Log Files:

VantagePoint: Office Add-In: Portal: Connection Log: Service Log: Or Connection Log: Service Log: C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\Incuity\Logging C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\IncuityOffice\Logging C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\IncuityPortal\Logging C:\Program Files\Incuity\bin\Logging (Connect.log) C:\Program Files\Incuity\bin\Logging (Service.log) C:\Program Files (x86)\Incuity\bin\Logging (Connect.log) if using x64 OS C:\Program Files (x86)\Incuity\bin\Logging (Service.log) if using x64 OS
Network FactoryTalk Directory File:

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Rockwell\RNAServer\Global\ApplicationName.RnaD Live Data Import Errors: C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\Incuity\Logging\Synchronization
Post Installation Activities

The following tasks should be performed immediately after installation, and prior to considering the system commissioned.
Post Release Patches

Links to patches for all released VantagePoint versions and applicable FactoryTalk Service Platform patches can be found in Answer ID 59149 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint Tips and Best Practices TOC under Patches.
Licensing
VantagePoint only supports FactoryTalk Activation; Rockwell Softwares legacy (EvRSI) activation is not supported. Only the VantagePoint server needs to be licensed. For more information see:
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Answer ID 61745 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint Remote Activation the FactoryTalk Activation On-line Help Answer ID 35251 - FactoryTalk Activation Frequently Asked Questions Answer ID 44623 - What are FactoryTalk Activations and How Do They Work?
During the VantagePoint server installation the FactoryTalk Activation Server software is automatically installed, however VantagePoint is capable of using a Remote Activation server as well. If planning to use the VantagePoint Server as the system FactoryTalk Activation Server, refer to: Answer ID 35376 - FactoryTalk Activation Server User Management Answer ID 41573 - FactoryTalk Activation End User Options File to Include/Exclude Borrowing Activations Answer ID 35708 - How to support FactoryTalk Activations in a LAN/WAN Environment Answer ID 35717 - How to make communication available between the FactoryTalk Activation Server and Client FactoryTalk VantagePoint Security and Licensing
MSSQL Server Licensing

New purchases of FactoryTalk VantagePoint server may include a Single Processor licensed version of Microsoft SQL Server 2005 or 2008 Standard Edition. The Single Processor license includes access for an unlimited number of users or devices to connect from either inside or outside the firewall. Customers do not need to purchase additional Server Licenses or client access licenses (CALs) when licensed under the per processor model. A Single Processor License is required for each processor installed on each operating system environment running SQL Server or any of its components (for example, Analysis Services). This means that if the physical server is a dual processor computer, an extra Single Processor License would need to be purchased in addition to the one provided with the AssetCentre server purchase. Multi-core processors are only considered to be one processor, so no extra license would be necessary. For more information on Microsoft SQL Server 2005 or 2008 licensing, refer to: http://www.microsoft.com/sql/howtobuy/sqlserverlicensing.mspx
Installing FactoryTalk VantagePoint Clients

The FactoryTalk VantagePoint client components include the Portal, Trend, XY Plotter, VanagePoint Manager, and the Excel Add-In. The Portal, Trend, and XY-Plotter can be deployed in a zero-touch manner and do not require the installation of additional software. Additionally, Excel based content can be viewed by a client without client software installation. The VantagePoint client software can be installed through the VantagePoint Portal. For more information see Installing VantagePoint on Client Machines in the VantagePoint help documentation.
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Backing up and Restoring FactoryTalk VantagePoint

The FactoryTalk VantagePoint configuration and any stored data should be backed up on a regular basis. For more information see AID 62884 - Backing up and Restoring a FactoryTalk VantagePoint Configuration.
Maintaining FactoryTalk VantagePoint Log Files

The VantagePoint / Incuity EMI Server creates log files detailing activity on the server. A new log file is created by default each day at midnight and the current log file is archived. The archived log files are not deleted. For information on maintaining log files see AID 60401- Locating and Maintaining FactoryTalk VanatagePoint Log Files.
Using FactoryTalk VantagePoint Sample Content

Sample content is provided with FactoryTalk VantagePoint to demonstrate the capabilities of the product. However, some sample content may be updated or removed with new versions of VantagePoint and should not be used for official modeling. For more information see AID 60403- Using Sample Content in FactoryTalk VantagePoint.
VantagePoint Compatibility
Information on FactoryTalk VantagePoint compatibility with other hardware or software products can be found in AID 59149- FactoryTalk VantagePoint Tips and Best Practices TOC under Compatibility.
Controller Compatibility
The current release of FactoryTalk VantagePoint fully supports automated tag imports from the ControlLogix Platform. In addition to ControlLogix, the AddItems operation of the OPCDA connector in VantagePoint can also be used to import FactoryTalk Live Data tags from other controller platforms (e.g., SLC, PLC5, etc.) When utilizing this functionality, users should be aware that data type issues may occur during imports from non-ControlLogix controller platforms. For more information see AID 61744FactoryTalk VantagePoint Controller Platform Compatibility.
Excel Compatibility
Microsoft Office Add-in Wizards make it easy to bring data from multiple control and business systems (via VantagePoint) into the familiar but powerful environment of Excel. Here, users can use Excel's analysis capabilities, or use the VantagePoint Add-in wizards that make it easy to manipulate and present the data. Users can publish content directly to the web, and collaborate by fetching and building upon existing published reports. Real time reports are automatically refreshed in Excel, and in the end users browser after publishing See AID 60409- FactoryTalk VantagePoint Microsoft Excel Compatibility for more information.
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FactoryTalk Historian SE Redundancy Support

FactoryTalk VantagePoint 3.1 supports FactoryTalk Historian SE Collective configurations after a patch is applied. For more information, see Answer ID 59722 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint Support for Historian Collectives.
Using FactoryTalk VantagePoint to Store Tags

FactoryTalk VanatagePoint is capable of storing up to 50 tags in the VantagePoint SQL database. FactoryTalk VantagePoint EMI is capable of storing an unlimited number of tags in the VantagePoint SQL database. Storing tags may require modifications to the system architecutre (e.g., scale up the hardware, scale down server loads) based on the amount and frequency of the data being stored if server performance does not meet expectations. If storing tags in VantagePoint, it is highly recommended that procedures are put in place to backup and archive the VantagePoint database on a regular basis.
System Redundancy
The current release of VantagePoint does not provide redundancy. VantagePoint is used to provide access to existing manufacturing and plant data sources and does not typically act as a data source itself. The VantagePoint configuration and VantagePoint tags are stored in a SQL database. Regularly backing up the following VantagePoint components is recommended: VantagePoint Microsoft SQL databases (IncuityStore and IncuityHistory) Web Site and Supporting Files: o C:\inetpub\wwwroot\IncuityPortal\ o C:\inetpub\wwwroot\Incuity\ o C:\inetpub\wwwroot\IncuityOffice\ All scripts and utilities used during configuration. Be aware that System Integrators may add scripts and utilities to the VantagePoint System. These files may include server-side scripts, instance and type packages. These files are usually placed on the VantagePoint machine in the folder o C:\Inetpub\wwwroot\Incuity\Import\
System Security
Security threats generally fall into 4 categories: external, internal, intentional and accidental. Detailed security recommendations against external threats are beyond the scope of this document. However, there are some basic measures that should be taken to protect against the most common threat the day-to-day users of the system. Recommendations in this area include: Password protect the computers BIOS: to prevent booting from anything other than the local hard drive, configure the computer to boot only from the hard drive, and then configure a BIOS password so that mischievous users cannot change the boot device. Password protect the local Administrator account; this often overlooked task is critical. Configure the Windows environment so that it is strictly business for the operators: restrict access to required applications only using Group Policy (in a domain) or Local Policy (on an individual machine or workgroup).
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Windows Terminal Services

FactoryTalk VantagePoint fully supports Windows Server 2003 Terminal Services. For more information, refer to technical notes Answer ID 29919 - Using View SE with Windows 2003 Terminal Services. While the focus of this document is View SE, it is also generally applicable to VantagePoint. Terminal Services is a standard feature built into the Windows Server family (Server, Advanced Server, and Datacenter Server) which provides remote access to servers from practically anywhere in an enterprise. It is a transparent system that runs applications and performs data processing and storage functions on the server computer to minimize the amount of information traveling across a network. While multiple sessions run on a single server, each user can only refer to their individual session. Users desktops are transmitted to clients for display using terminal emulation software. Similarly, the software sends print streams and command functions such as keyboard inputs and mouse clicks across the network between the client and the server. For a computer to be a Terminal Services client, it only requires an operating system and the Terminal Services client software. No other software (not even a web browser) is required. For this reason, these clients are known as thin clients. Since minimal software is needed on the client computer and all the processing is done on the server, client computer hardware can be scaled down to reduce cost.
Time Synchronization
The Windows Time service (W32tm.exe) uses the Network Time Protocol (NTP) to synchronize computer clocks on the network. Time synchronization is critical for the proper operation of many Windows services and to ensure the security of Kerberos authentication within an Active Directory environment. In a FactoryTalk VantagePoint system, time synchronization ensures accurate time stamps on all VantagePoint content. Therefore, configuring time synchronization is highly recommended. For more information see Answer ID 62618 - FactoryTalk VantagePoint and Time Synchronization. In workgroup environments, configure Windows Time to synchronize all the SE computer clocks to an authoritative time server (e.g. the FactoryTalk Directory). In domain environments, Windows Time should be automatically configured on each computer (when they join the domain) for the appropriate authoritative time server (i.e., the domain controller that is also the PDC emulator). In either environment, the authoritative time server should then be synched to: o a reliable time server on the Internet o a locally-connected hardware time source such as an atomic clock Check the Event Windows Time Service Tools and Settings http://technet2.microsoft.com/windowsserver/en/library/b43a025f-cce2-4c82-b3ea3b95d482db3a1033.mspx?mfr=true Administering the Windows Time Service http://technet2.microsoft.com/WindowsServer/en/library/ac86e77c-0be3-430a-ba0bc2225506fc4f1033.mspx?mfr=true
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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS How to configure an authoritative time server in Windows Server 2003 http://support.microsoft.com/kb/816042 How to configure an authoritative time server in Windows XP http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314054/ How to configure an authoritative time server in Windows 2000 http://support.microsoft.com/kb/216734/
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting information for VantagePoint issues can be found by searching the KnowledgeBase. For information on additional support see AID 59444- How to Receive Support for FactoryTalk VantagePoint. A common issue is when problems with the IIS configuration translate into errors within FactoryTalk VantagePoint. A useful tool in diagnosing IIS problems can be found free from Microsoft in the IIS Diagnostics tool. This installation is a compiled set of tools to help diagnose IIS settings, including anonymous access. The tool can be found from Microsofts downloads site here (IIS Diagnostics Toolkit x86). While FactoryTalk VantagePoint does not use IIS in the same fashion as FactoryTalk View SE, the FactoryTalk View Site Edition IIS Handbook has helpful sections on troubleshooting anonymous access and general virtual directory difficulties. This handbook is located on the Rockwell Automation knowledgebase under AID 39618 (FactoryTalk View Site Edition IIS Handbook.) Below is a list of errors that are commonly seen due to IIS configuration problems. HTTP Status 401: Unauthorized: 401 errors are a good indicator of anonymous access being broken. Ensure that the Virtual Directory has anonymous access enabled, that a valid user is configured as the anonymous user, and that the configured user has valid file permissions access to the virtual directory. HTTP Status 403: Forbidden: 403 errors usually indicate that the virtual directorys configuration is incorrect. The most common cause of a 403 error is the Execute Permissions settings from within the virtual directorys properties. This setting should be set to allow Scripts only. HTTP Error 404: File Not Found: See AID 60244 for information on troubleshooting this error.
Tools and Utilities

Answer ID 30393 - Patch File Validator Utility Answer ID 30498 - Windows Firewall Configuration Utility for Windows XP Service Pack 2 Answer ID 20697 - Troubleshooting a Windows Network Answer ID 31073 - Tool for collecting Event log files
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Additional Reference Links

General
Answer ID 35330 - Rockwell Software Products and Antivirus Software Answer ID 42682 - Software Platform\Hardware Compatibility Matrix Answer ID 27743 - RSI Products and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology
Communications
Answer ID 37285 - RSLinx Enterprise 5.00.00 Patch TOC Answer ID 26464 - RSLinx Internals: OPC/DCOM timeouts when a remote client is disconnected
Design Considerations and Best Practices

Logix 5000 Controllers Design Considerations http://literature.rockwellautomation.com/idc/groups/literature/documents/rm/1756-rm094_-en-p.pdf Answer ID 49189- FactoryTalk Historian Site Edition Design Considerations and Best Practices Answer ID 58803- Network FactoryTalk Directory Best Practices
Microsoft
Microsoft TechNet article on Domain Controllers http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/windows2000serv/maintain/security/secdefs.mspx Maximize Data Throughput Setting for Performance Microsofts Description of Performance Options in Windows Log Parser
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FactoryTalk VantagePoint v3.1 Design Considerations Rev3-1-5

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Using this Document

Product Version Information

Document Naming Conventions/Abbreviations

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Document Revision History

Whats New in FactoryTalk VantagePoint V3.1?

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Introduction to FactoryTalk VantagePoint

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Selecting the Correct VantagePoint Version

Note: Connections to non-FactoryTalk Data Sources may require additional licensing.

FactoryTalk VantagePoint Licensing

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Portal Authentication Process

Is the user a known Windows User to the VantagePoint server?

Prompt for Credentials

Are the credentials Valid?

Deny Login Access

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FACTORYTALK V ANTAGEPOINT DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

Trend or Manager Authentication Process

Is the user a known Windows User to the VantagePoint server?

Prompt for Credentials

Are the credentials Valid?

Deny Login Access

Is the User a Named User?

Is there a Named User License Available?

Is there a Concurrent User License Available?

Note: Inactive Concurrent Users will be logged out after 20 minutes

Assign Named User license to Windows User

Assign Concurrent User license to Windows User

Is the Named User logged into another PC?

Login to Trend or Manager

Deny Login Access

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FactoryTalk VantagePoint Secuirty

Role Based Security

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Reference Station Architectures

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Recommended Platform Requirements

Installing a New Operating System on Computers

Operating System Tips