Overview

How to Retain DBs in TIA Portal Open your project in TIA Portal. Go to the Data Block (DB) that stores your machine parameters (like setpoints, counters, recipe values, etc.). In the Properties of the DB: Find the option "Retain". Tick the checkboxes for the variables (or whole DB) that you want to retain. Download the updated project to the PLC. Now, even after a power cycle or PLC restart, these values will be remembered. (Note: Some older CPUs or specific areas of memory have limited retain space, so only mark parameters that are truly necessary.) Why Retain is Important Keeps machine parameters safe: Without retention, after power OFF/ON, all values go back to default (often zero). That means operators must re-enter everything manually. Saves downtime: Production machines can restart immediately without waiting for re-parameterization. Avoids mistakes: Manual re-entry increases the chance of errors. Improves reliability: Operators trust the machine will always remember the last settings (like motor speed, recipe data, counters, etc.). #TIAPortal #SiemensPLC #PLCProgramming #DataBlocks #AutomationEngineering #IndustrialAutomation #PLCTraining #TIATips #PLCBasics #MachineParameters #SaveDBs #PLCProgrammingTutorial #TIAPortalTips #FactoryAutomation #PLCProjects