Batch Add Alarm Extensions Without Vykon Modules

Topic: Niagara Workflow, Alarms
Difficulty: Advanced

Overview

Add alarm extensions to multiple points without Vykon modules. Explore alternative methods when the standard batch editor cannot add extensions.

The Problem

Niagara's built-in batch editor can modify existing properties but cannot add new extensions like AlarmExtension to points. Vykon modules provide bulk tools, but they're not always available.

Solution Methods

Method 1: Robot/Program Object Automation

Use Niagara's built-in scripting capabilities:

Create a ProgramObject in your station
Write a script that iterates through points
Add AlarmExtension to each programmatically

// Pseudo-code concept
for each point in targetFolder:
  if not hasExtension(point, "alarm"):
    addExtension(point, new AlarmExtension())
    configureAlarmLimits(point, highLimit, lowLimit)

Method 2: Export/Modify/Import

Export station or folder to .bog file
Edit the XML to add alarm extensions:

<n:p n="alarmExtension" m="a">
  <n:p n="alarmEnable" v="true"/>
  <n:p n="highLimit" v="80"/>
</n:p>

Import modified .bog back into station

Method 3: Copy Template Approach

Create one point with properly configured alarm extension
Save as template
Use template to create new points (alarms included)
Rebind to actual I/O

Method 4: Custom Module Development

For large-scale needs, develop a custom module with bulk alarm tools.

Step-by-Step: Export/Import Method

Right-click target folder > Copy
Save as BOG file
Open in text editor
Find <n:p n="out" sections
Add alarm extension XML after each
Save and import via Paste

Best Practices

Test on small subset first
Back up before bulk operations
Verify alarm routing after addition
Document your process for repeatability

Batch Add Alarm Extensions Without Vykon Modules