Runtime Utility Center - Create & Restore Backups PLC Images

Hey everyone!
Below is a step by step guide on how to utilize the Runtime Utility Center to create and restore backup images of your PLC.

NOTE: This operation is only intended for B&R PLCs that utilize a CompactFlash/CFast/CfastExpress.

NOTE: If you are using hypervisor, which utilizes ARemb alongside an operating system, this method of operation could result in some issues. To reduces this incident, alternative image backup solutions are advised. We would recommend HDClone as an alternative solution in situations where Hypervisor is not used. If you are not certain on whether or not Hypervisor is used, refer to the partition differences post linked below

NOTE: When creating a backup image, its important to note the differentiation of the file type you have selected. For more information see the following from the B&R help explorer.

NOTE: For more information on this topic see the link from the B&R Help explorer.

Creating/Restoring a disk image

PREREQUISITES:

(Software) Runtime Utility Center - PVI Development Setup | B&R Industrial Automation

(Hardware) CompactFlash/CFast/CfastExpress - These will be stored inside your PLC. You will need to remove it temporarily for this operation.

(Hardware) CompactFlash/CFast/CfastExpress Reader - You can find these at your local retailer or online stores that you’re familiar with.

How to create a backup image

  1. Insert your CFast/CompactFlash into your computer and open Runtime Utility Center

  2. Select “Create/Restore a disk image”

  1. Select “Create image from disk”

  1. Select which disk to create a backup image. If no disk are appearing, press the “Refresh” button.

  1. Select the location to save the backup image file

  1. Select “Create Image” to begin the process

  1. A Popup window with a loading bar will then appear indicating the backup image process has started.

  1. Once completed, another popup will appear letting you know the backup image was successfully created.

How to restore a backup image

  1. Insert your Cfast/CompactFlash into your computer and open Runtime Utility Center
  2. Select Create/Restore a disk image

  1. Select “Restore image file to disk”

  1. Select Which disk to restore the image to. If no disk are appearing, press the “Refresh” button.

  1. Select the backup image you would like to restore.

  1. Select “Restore image” to begin the image restoration process.

  1. A confirmation popup will appear indicating that anything on this selected disk will be erased. Click “Yes” to acknowledge this to continue the operation.

  1. A Popup window with a loading bar will then appear indicating the backup image process has started.

  1. Once completed, another popup will appear letting you know the restoration of the image onto the CompactFlash/Cfast/CfastExpress was successfully created.

9 Likes

Hi,
you didn’t mention the image extension. This is a factor especially for those like me managing old projects backup. The last time I made an image I used (if I remember correctly .zp3) but in the company we also had old backups (.zp1, .zp2) that could not be restored with recent versions of RUC (AS4.9/4.12).

Additionally, on microsoft operating sistem, it is essential to start the RUC as an administrator otherwise it often does not display the memory medium to write to.

Cheers, C.

1 Like