Data backup

Application

If you create or modify files on the control, then you should back up these files periodically.

Description of function

With the functions NC/PLC Backup and NC/PLC Restore you can create back-up files for specific directories or even an entire drive, and restore them as needed. You should store these backup files on an external storage medium.

Backup and restore

You have the following options for transferring files from the control:

  • TNCremo
  • With TNCremo you can transfer files from the control to a computer.

  • PC software for data transfer

  • External drive
  • You can transfer files from the control directly to an external drive.

  • Network drives on the control

  • External data carriers
  • You can back-up files to external data carriers or use external data carriers to transfer the files.

  • USB devices

Notes

  • You should back-up all machine-specific data, such as the PLC program or machine parameters. Consult your machine manufacturer about this.
  • You must transmit files with the extensions PDF, XLS, ZIP, BMP, GIF, JPG and PNG in binary format from the PC to the control's hard disk.
  • Backing up all files of the internal memory can take several hours. If required, perform the backup during a time when you don't need the machine.
  • Periodically delete files that are no longer required. This ensures that the control has enough memory available for system files, such as the tool table.
  • HEIDENHAIN recommends having the hard disk inspected after three to five years. After this time, and depending on the operating conditions (e.g., vibration loads), you must expect increased failure rates.

Example: Transmission duration of different transmission types

The following table shows the measurement results regarding how long the different services take to transmit an NC program with a size of 1 GB to and from the control.

A CAD laptop and a TNC7 with an MC 356 main computer were used for the test.

Service

Duration of
transmission to the control

Duration of transmission from the control

Further information

TNCremo v3

Approx. 3 min 30 s

Approx. 14 min 30 s

HEIDENHAIN DNC

Approx. 0 min 12 s

Approx. 0 min 12 s

OPC UA NC Server

Approx. 0 min 27 s

Approx. 0 min 50 s

SFTP

Approx. 0 min 09 s

Approx. 0 min 10 s

SMB

Approx. 0 min 12 s

Approx. 0 min 09 s

The duration of transmission can increase due to factors, such as:

  • Number of simultaneously transmitted files
  • Network utilization
  • Age of the hardware being used