Save Project As Compiled Library

Execute the File > Save Project As Compiled Library command to save a library project in encoded format. An encoded image of the precompile context of the library will be created. This means that the implementations of the library modules will no longer be accessible and visible.

The command opens the dialog box for saving a file in the file system. The file type is automatically set to compiled library files. By default, the file name of the open project is preset. You can modify it, if desired. As file extension, select *.compiled-library. When a library of this format is used in a project, the source code of the library POU is not displayed.

If the option Enforce signing of compiled libraries is selected in the Security Screen editor, then a library project can only be saved if a certificate with a private key that supports code signing is available.

If a suitable valid certificate is not yet available for your user profile, a dialog box will be displayed prompting you to specify one using the Security Screen (in the Digital Signature list of the User tab). After you have specified the certificate, execute the save command again.

The further handling of *.compiled-library files is the same as for *.library files. They can be installed and referenced in the same way. Therefore, the source code of a library can be protected. Shorter loading times and smaller library files are also obtained.