Using a Dictionary

Using a Dictionary



Dictionaries allow numeric tag values to be displayed as meaningful text on the HMI. This makes it easier for operators to understand equipment status without interpreting raw numerical values. For example, instead of displaying a value of "1", a Dictionary can display "Running", "Alarm", or "Auto" depending on the application. 

Common examples include:

  • Alarm Status: 0 = OK, 1 = Alarm

  • Motor Status: 0 = Standby, 1 = Running

  • HOA Switch: 0 = Off, 1 = Hand, 2 = Auto

  • Pump State: 0 = Off, 1 = Running, 2 = Fault, 3 = Over Temperature


Creating a Dictionary

  1. Navigate to Sites → Communication.

  2. Select the controller that contains the desired tag.

  3. Choose the tag from the tag list.

  4. In the Tags Editor Panel, click Edit.

  5. Scroll to the Formats & Formulas section.

  6. Click Select Formats & Formulas.

  7. In the pop-up window, select Dictionaries from the Format/Formula list.




Using an Existing Dictionary

  1. Select the desired dictionary from the Dictionary List.

  2. Click Add.


Creating a New Dictionary

  1. Click Add.

  2. Enter a name for the dictionary.

  3. Create value definitions.

  4. Click Add Definition to add additional entries.

  5. Click Save when finished.


Applying the Dictionary

  1. Select the dictionary from the list.

  2. Click Add.

  3. Click Apply in the Formats & Formulas window.

  4. Save the tag changes in the Tags Editor.

The translated text will now appear in the Formatted Value column of the tag list and can be displayed throughout the HMI.

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