Operators often need to correct a bad sensor reading, enter lab results, or adjust a setpoint. We compare the "Standard Way" (Javascript & Web API) against the "Drag-and-Drop Way" using Vision Library+.
Option A vs. Option B
You can spend weeks developing a custom solution, or you can solve the problem in five minutes. Here is the technical breakdown of both approaches.
Option A: The Custom Code Route
The Tech Stack: JavaScript, PI Web API, Kerberos.
The Reality: To write back to PI, you must create a custom symbol that uses the PI Web API `POST` method. You will need to handle CORS headers on the server and manage complex authentication tokens.
The Risk: It breaks when you upgrade PI Vision. It has no audit trail. It requires a developer to maintain.
Option B: Vision Library+
The Tech Stack: Drag-and-Drop Custom Symbols.
The Reality: We have pre-packaged the API connections into user-friendly widgets. You simply drag the symbol onto the display, select the PI Tag you want to write to, and hit save.
The Benefit: Full audit trails, input validation, and instant deployment. No coding required.
3 Tools for Different Scenarios
Manual data entry isn't one-size-fits-all. Sometimes you need a logbook, sometimes a simple button. Vision Library+ includes specialized tools for each use case.
1. The "Excel Replacement"
Best for: Lab results & Shift Logbooks
- Grid View: The Manual Input Table+ allows you to edit multiple tags and timestamps in a familiar spreadsheet layout.
- Future Data: Perfect for inputting production plans or forecast data into future timestamps.
- Validation: Set min/max limits to prevent fat-finger errors.
2. The Data Entry
Best for: Production Data, Lab Data
- Single Value Entry: Use Manual Data Entry+ to quickly update a specific attribute.
- Commenting: Force users to add a comment explaining why they changed the value (Crucial for auditing).
- Context Aware: Automatically detects the current asset on the display.
3. The "HMI Experience"
Best for: Setpoints & Limits
- Visual Controls: Quick Input+ replaces typing with Sliders, Toggles, and Push Buttons.
- One-Click Actions: Turn a pump on/off or switch a controller mode instantly.
- Safety: Includes "Double Confirmation" dialogs to prevent accidental clicks.
Why IT Managers Prefer This Approach
It's not just about ease of use for the operator. It's about security and compliance for the organization.
Security & Auth
Our tools respect standard PI Vision security. If a user doesn't have "Write Access" in the PI Data Archive, the input fields automatically disable. No backdoors.
Audit Trails
Who changed that setpoint? When did they do it? Our tools can log the User ID, Timestamp, and Comment directly to a PI Tag or Event Frame for full traceability.
GxP Compliance
For Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences clients, we offer electronic signature workflows and verified data entry, essential for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance.
Stop Coding, Start Visualizing
Don't let manual data entry become a software development project. Download the trial and start writing back to PI today.
