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Restoring a backup distribution file

This procedure restores a controller to a factory default state.
Prerequisites:
  • A backup .dist file of the station on the target controller exists.
  • The software database of your Niagara 4 installation includes matching versions of all software modules used by the station when the station backup was made. Without these modules, restoring the backup .dist will fail.
  • Any controlled equipment, which might be adversely affected by the station stopping (and the removal of software) is put in a manually controlled state.
  • If the .dist file is protected with a file passphrase, you know this passphrase.
  1. Using Workbench, open a platform connection to the remote host.
  2. If a station is already running on the remote host, use the Applications Director to stop the station.
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  3. To locate the .dist file, do one of the following:
    • In the Distribution File Installer click the Backups button (Image). This opens the !/backups folder.
    • Click the Choose Directory button to point to another backup .dist file location.

    The Installer parses through the distribution files, and makes selectable only those files that are compatible with the opened platform. When done parsing, available backup .dists open in a list.

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    Distribution files that are inappropriate, for example those that are for a different target platform or have unmet dependencies, are dimmed and the Install button does not become active if you select one of them.

  4. For details on any .dist file, double-click it.
    The system opens a popup that includes a list of dependencies.
    Image

    The details window provides information about the selected distribution file, including all contents and any dependencies.

  5. To restore any selected backup, click Install.

    When you click Install, the system attempts to validate the file’s passphrase. If the file passphrase and system passphrase are the same, the process continues without prompting for a file passphrase. If the file passphrase and system passphrase are different, the distribution file installer prompts you for the passphrase.

    Image
     NOTE: If prompted for the .dist file passphrase and you do not know it, you cannot install the file. 
  6. If you are prompted for the Passphrase, enter it and click Next.
    If the host is already running a station, a window opens telling you that the station must be stopped.

    If the station backup .dist file contains software modules that are different from (or in addition to) those already installed in the remote host, another window opens:

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  7. To continue, click Next.
    Another window asks if you wish to restore the TCP/IP settings stored in the .dist file (as displayed) into the remote host.
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    The TCP/IP settings contained in the .dist file are listed, and by default, the check box Update the remote host’s TCP/IP settings is cleared.

  8. Do one of the following:
    • To use the same .dist file on differently addressed hosts, leave this check box cleared.
    • To use the TCP/IP settings stored in the .dist file, enable the Update the remote host’s TCP/IP settings check box.
    Depending on your choice, after the .dist file installs and the host reboots, it retains its current TCP/IP settings or uses the TCP/IP settings stored in the .dist file.
  9. To begin the installation, click Finish.
    The .dist installation process opens a window that tracks its progress.
    Image

    The installer automatically stops the station, then continues with the distribution file install process, which overwrites the station, After the distribution file (and modules, if selected) are installed on the platform, the controller reboots, and the progress window indicates complete.

  10. To continue, click Close and open a new platform connection, perhaps to view output in the Application Director.

Related Links

  • Restore procedures (Parent Topic)

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