What are Layers and Views?
A layer in IGSS will contain either descriptors, object values or object names. If layers are used, all descriptors and value names are then assigned to one or more layers. It is then possible to define operator views, where the system integrator selects which layers should be included and shown for each view.
Layers and Views can be used for many scenarios. Here are a few examples of what they might be used for:
For an example of how to set up layers and views see: Scenario of Use for Layers - Example 1
IGSS provides 32 different layers - 16 for descriptors, 8 for object names and 8 for object values. These can then be combined in numerous ways to define the different operator views.
Before you start
Where are my descriptors? - that is a frequent question one may ask, when you start setting up layers. When using layers it is therefore highly recommended to make a plan for the layers before configuring.
Once a single operator view has been defined, layers will become active in the project. That is, if some descriptors are not included in any layer (by default, all descriptors/values/names are included in the default layer), then these descriptors will never be shown when the configuration is running.
In Definition, the system designer has the ability to select Show All, where everything will be shown whether included in a layer or not. This option can also be disabled to test how the defined views will appear when the configuration is running.
So when using layers, always remember to include all the descriptors in the required layers. Many descriptors will probably need to be included in more than one layer.
Global and Diagram views
The 32 provided layers are the same for the whole configuration, however the views may be created either as global views or just views for individual diagrams.
In a configuration, both a global and a diagram view can be active simultaneously. A descriptor will be displayed if it is included in either the active global or diagram view. Hence more planning is needed if both global and diagram views are going to be used.
Creating and editing global views
Global views are created by selecting the Views menu and Create.
Creating and editing diagram views
Diagram views are created from the Diagram Properties dialog box, under the Define Views section.
Listing order
The views, listed in the Views menu for each diagram, will show all the available views for the current diagram. This will include all the global views plus all views specifically for this diagram.
When both global and diagram views are used, the global views will always be listed first and then the diagram views underneath (see illustration below).