Before the actual import can take place, you must have a link between the source data and the target table or module of Smart Instrumentation. If you do not have a previously saved link or you do not want to use an existing link, you need to create a new one.
The first step in building a new link is to define the source data using your database tools or a file source. When defining an import link, you need to establish a connection to the source database or file that contains predefined source data. Your import source must contain at least one field, even if you want to specify an import value manually. You either map existing source fields or specify import values manually in the Import Link window.
The second step in creating an import link is to specify the import method. The import method can be either Single table or Module (multiple tables). The Single table method is useful when you need to or to import specific items or update properties of items that already exist in Smart Instrumentation. This method is especially useful when importing wiring data. First, you import your panels into the PANEL table. Then, you import terminal strips into the PANEL_STRIP table and make appropriate associations with the previously imported panels. Then, you import terminals into the PANEL_STRIP_TERM table, and so forth. You can also use the Single table method in conjunction with data import into reference tables. The Module (multiple tables) method is useful for massive data import. For example, you need to use this method to import multiple tag numbers, loop numbers, supporting table values, and automatically associate appropriate supporting table values to the imported instrument and loops. This method, however, is not useful for wiring data import due to the complexity of wiring connections and parent item – child item relations in Smart Instrumentation.
When creating an import link, you must define a unique link name. If you create several links, you might need to categorize them into link groups. For details, see Link Groups. You create, rename, delete import links, and associate them with link groups in the Link Explorer window. Also, you can move import links between databases or domains. For details, see Moving Links Between Databases or Domains. It is possible to run import links in batch mode, in order of priorities.
After creating an import link, you need to set various properties for the link on the Link Properties dialog. The properties that appear on this dialog depend on your import method and target table or module selection. For details, see Defining Import Link Properties Common Tasks.
If you intend to import a large number of records (more than 400 records) in one import session, you must create a new section in the Intools.ini file called [Rules] and add the following parameter: disable = y.