About MDB to AF Migration and Synchronization

On PI Server 2010 and later, the Data Archive maintains a two-way synchronization between PI MDB and PI AF. Changes that you make in MDB are automatically reflected in AF. Similarly, changes that you make in AF are automatically reflected in MDB. This means that AF-based applications and MDB-based applications can access the same content.

MDB and AF synchronization begins with an initial migration and is thereafter automatic. Migration is the process during which Data Archive initially copies the PI Module Database to an AF database. Migration is typically a one-time operation, but it is possible to re-migrate if necessary.

Migration occurs automatically after installation of or upgrade to PI Server 2010 or later versions, unless you choose not to enable MDB during setup. If you do not choose to enable MDB during the installation of or upgrade to PI Server 2010 or later versions, then migration and synchronization do not occur and MDB is read-only. To enable MDB at any point after installation, you must manually initiate a migration.

On PI Server 2010 and later, PI AF is the system of record. When PI AF Link cannot connect to the AF Server, MDB becomes read-only. Users can continue to make changes in AF, but cannot edit MDB until the connection is restored.