I like the idea that files are stored on a Lan system. Typically lans are backed up daily or weekly by the IT department. If not they should be backed up on tape or disk weekly, monthly, etc. depending on how often new programs are released. The more programs that are released the more often the machine programs should be backed up.
The Mfg. Eng. or programmer should be the only one allowed to change the program and set up. The revision levels are controlled by some sort of manufacturing documentation system. I have seen manufacturing revision levels controlled by Doc Control, Quality, or Mfg. Eng. or some combination of the above. Typically the current program and set up revisions are shown on a documentation traveler or process router.
Below are guidelines I use.
There are typically two parts of the program that will require naming when programming. a) Set up file (AR file) b) Placement file (LA file)
Set Up The set up file shall follow the naming convention shown below. SETUP_X_RevY.ar Where X is the line (A, B, C) Where Y is the next available revision starting at A and continuing to Z and then AA, AB, AC, etc.
Set up revisions shall increment each time a part number in the set up changes or the location of feeder(s) change. The revision will not change if a correction is made to fix an input error.
Placement The placement file shall follow the naming convention shown below. A �T� for top or a �B� for bottom, the last 5 digits (more than 5 numbers could be used depending on how many characters the machine allows for a name) of the part number of the circuit assembly, REV_X where X is the revision of the BOM and a digit from 1 to 9 for any process changes or change to the panel layout. E.G. T17602REV_L1.la. The revision letter for the placement file will change only when the BOM changes per ECR. The process number shall change only for process improvements or changes to the panel layout and not for BOM changes. E.G. BOM changes from L to M. Using the example above, the new name would be T17602REV_M1.la. E.G. The panel layout changes to show a 10 mm scrap edge instead of a 9 mm scrap edge. The new name would be T17602REV_L2.la. The revision will not change if: A correction is made to fix an input error Minor adjustments are made to the placement coordinates of components for more accurate placements.
I hope this helps you out.
PS. Your comments are always good for a laugh.
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