FactoryTalk AssetCentre database management frequently asked questions

Can FactoryTalk AssetCentre make use of relational database management systems other than Microsoft SQL Server?

No. A Microsoft SQL Server is required for FactoryTalk AssetCentre installations.

Does FactoryTalk AssetCentre support Microsoft SQL Express?

Yes, as of version 6.10 or later.

Is there a place to find general information on using Microsoft SQL Server with FactoryTalk software?

Yes, you can find the Microsoft SQL Server frequently asked questions on Microsoft's website.

What is the name of the database used by FactoryTalk AssetCentre?

By default, the database name is

AssetCentre

.

Can the default name of the FactoryTalk AssetCentre database be changed?

Yes, but this is not a recommended practice.

How does FactoryTalk AssetCentre communicate with the database?

The FactoryTalk AssetCentre server uses a Microsoft SQL Server user to connect to the database.

Is there a way to monitor the size of the FactoryTalk AssetCentre database?

Yes. As of version 6.10, FactoryTalk AssetCentre can be configured to monitor the size of the database using the Database Limitations option within the FactoryTalk AssetCentre desktop client.

Is there a way to monitor the size of individual tables within the database?

FactoryTalk AssetCentre will monitor the size of the event, audit, and diagnostic logs within the database.

Is there a way to monitor the size of an archive asset within the database?

FactoryTalk AssetCentre provides a global setting for the maximum number of versions of a single archived asset, as well as an option to configure the maximum versions at each individual asset. When viewed from within the FactoryTalk AssetCentre desktop client, the current number of versions and disk space consumed can be seen in the archive view. If an asset exceeds the maximum number of versions, the oldest version will be purged when the new version is checked in.

Is there a way to send email alerts based on the size of the database?

Yes. A "warning" and "critical" level can be set based on the size of the database. If these levels are exceeded, an email alert will be triggered. Additionally, if any of the log tables exceed their maximum setting, an email alert will be triggered.

Is there a way to manually clean up the database?

FactoryTalk AssetCentre offers an Archive Cleanup Wizard and a Log Cleanup Utility, both of which can be accessed via the FactoryTalk AssetCentre desktop client.

Is there a way to clean up the database transaction log?

Microsoft SQL Server commands can be used to truncate the transaction log. Note that the FactoryTalk AssetCentre database is installed with a full recovery model, which does not allow the transaction log to be truncated while the database is in use. A simple recovery model would allow the transaction log to be truncated without halting the FactoryTalk AssetCentre system.

Are there any recommendations for backing up or restoring the database?

Yes. Refer to "Backing up and Resotring FactoryTalk AssetCentre with Microsoft SQL Server".

Is there a recommended setting for the database growth expansion policy?

Not in general, but users with new installations should note how quickly the database can expand during initial configuration.