License Key Not Available Wincc Logging For Runtime Advanced Work __top__ 〈Pro〉
Troubleshooting "License Key Not Available" Error in WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced
The "License Key Not Available" error in WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced can be a frustrating issue, hindering the efficient monitoring and management of industrial processes. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the error, its causes, and step-by-step solutions to resolve the problem.
Understanding WinCC Logging and Runtime Advanced
WinCC (Windows Control Center) is a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system developed by Siemens. It is widely used in industrial automation for monitoring, controlling, and optimizing processes. WinCC Logging is a feature that enables the collection and storage of process data, while Runtime Advanced is a component that allows for the execution of WinCC projects.
Causes of the "License Key Not Available" Error Troubleshooting "License Key Not Available" Error in WinCC
The "License Key Not Available" error typically occurs when the system is unable to detect a valid license key for WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced. This can be attributed to several factors:
- Missing or incorrect license key: The license key might not be installed or configured correctly.
- License server issues: The license server might be offline, misconfigured, or experiencing technical difficulties.
- Software version incompatibility: Incompatibilities between WinCC versions and the license key can cause the error.
- System configuration errors: Misconfigured system settings or registry entries can prevent the system from detecting the license key.
Step-by-Step Solutions
To resolve the "License Key Not Available" error, follow these steps:
- Verify License Key Installation:
- Check the license key documentation to ensure it is installed and activated correctly.
- Verify that the license key is associated with the correct WinCC version and Runtime Advanced component.
- Check License Server Configuration:
- Ensure the license server is online and properly configured.
- Verify that the license server is reachable from the client machine.
- Update WinCC and Runtime Advanced:
- Ensure that WinCC and Runtime Advanced are updated to the latest version.
- Verify that the software versions are compatible with the license key.
- System Configuration and Registry Checks:
- Verify that system settings and registry entries are correctly configured.
- Check for any errors or inconsistencies in the system configuration.
Advanced Troubleshooting
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, perform the following advanced troubleshooting:
- Check Event Logs: Review event logs for error messages related to the license key or license server.
- Use License Server Tools: Utilize license server tools, such as the License Server Manager, to diagnose and resolve license-related issues.
- Contact Siemens Support: Reach out to Siemens support for assistance with resolving the issue.
Conclusion
The "License Key Not Available" error in WinCC Logging for Runtime Advanced can be a complex issue, but by understanding its causes and following step-by-step solutions, you can efficiently resolve the problem. Regular maintenance, software updates, and proper system configuration can help prevent such errors in the future. If issues persist, do not hesitate to contact Siemens support for expert assistance.
Step 1: Perform a "Clean" License Search
Often, the Automation License Manager fails to find the license on a network drive or USB key. Missing or incorrect license key : The license
- Action: In Automation License Manager, go to
Edit > Connect Network Drive... and ensure your license dongle is properly mounted.
- Action: Unplug and re-plug your USB dongle (Blue LOGO! dongle or Green Siemens dongle). Wait 10 seconds for Windows to reinstall drivers.
- Action: Run the "Find" function manually (
License > Find...).
Option C: Trial License (Emergency 21 Days)
If you need to test immediately while waiting for purchase:
- Download the "SIMATIC WinCC Runtime Advanced Trial License" from the Siemens Industry Online Support (SIOS) website.
- Install it via Automation License Manager.
- WARNING: The trial license is for 21 days only. After that, logging will fail again. Do not use this for production.
The "Archive Tag" Limit
Even a full WinCC Runtime Advanced license has a limit on how many tags you can log. For example:
- RT Advanced 128 tags: Can log up to 128 tags.
- RT Advanced 512 tags: Can log up to 512 tags.
The Error Scenario: You have a 512-tag license. You configured data logging for 600 tags. The system will throw "License key not available for WinCC logging" because you exceed the allowed quantity.
Fix:
- In TIA Portal, open the "Runtime settings" for your HMI.
- Go to
Logging > Archive tags.
- Count how many tags are active. Reduce the number to match your license.
- Go to
Alarms > Alarm logs – Ensure you are not trying to log more alarms than allowed.
3. Observed Symptoms
- Logging functions disabled or inaccessible in runtime
- Error or warning messages on runtime startup similar to: “License key not available” or “Feature not licensed”
- Inability to start or configure historical logging for tags/alarms
- Runtime shows reduced functionality compared to configured project (missing panes or disabled options)
- Possible entries in Windows Event Log or WinCC logs indicating license validation failure