First, you have to have a Visual Studio.
You can get the visual studio from Microsoft.
The development is available in C# and VB.
x4Trace has open-source parts. Some parts can be developed by you, but some parts, such as the algorithms and the basic system, are hidden from you.
You can find these sources in the directory of the installed x4Trace server. These sources are compiled in the installed x4Trace, therefore, if you modify the contained classes, you change the basic code of the x4Trace open-source part. This modification is your risk! We recommend, do not modify the existing classes, but create a new one by the existing one.
These two projects contain the open-source codes, and these are the samples how to write your own code.
x4Trace.Server.UserPlugins.sln
x4Trace.Desktop.Plugins.User.sln
You can add the following:
Desktop plugin
Server plugin
Driver (on the server only)
Line module (on the server only)
MAUI plugin
Desktop plugin: A visual plugin, such as a user interface. This can contain your unique GUI and your unique algorithms. All of the x4Trace desktop functions and algorithms are available here. For instance, if you need a new resource designer, it can be placed here. This runs on windows.
Server plugin: The server runs this plugin. For instance, the ERP communication can be placed here. It works like a separate program on the server.
Driver: Represents communication with hardware, such as a PLC, a Cognex or, a Keyence QR code reader or anything as you need.
Line module: The server runs it. This is for controlling a line. Contains that automation algorithms which the line needs during the operation. This module sends the required data to production and collects the tracing data from the line. Here you can implement your unique code as you need for automation.
MAUI plugin: A visual plugin, such as a user interface. This can contain your unique GUI and your unique algorithms. All of the x4Trace MAUI functions and algorithms are available here. For instance, if you need a new resource designer, it can be placed here. This runs on IOS or andriod.