What's the difference between PI Vision and PI ProcessBook?
What's the difference between PI Vision and PI ProcessBook?
PI Vision and PI ProcessBook are both visualization tools for PI System data, but they serve different eras and deployment models.
PI ProcessBook (Legacy)
- Desktop application — installed on individual Windows PCs
- Uses ActiveX controls and proprietary display format (.pdi files)
- Rich drawing capabilities with custom symbols, multi-state objects, and VBA scripting
- Requires Windows and a local PI SDK installation
- End of life — no longer actively developed by AVEVA
PI Vision (Modern)
- Web-based — runs in any modern browser, no client install needed
- Built on HTML5/JavaScript with a responsive interface
- Supports AF hierarchy navigation, event frames, and asset comparisons
- Role-based access via Windows Integrated Auth or OIDC
- Actively developed with regular feature releases
Key Differences
| Feature | ProcessBook | PI Vision |
|---|---|---|
| Deployment | Desktop app | Web browser |
| Platform | Windows only | Any OS with a browser |
| Scripting | VBA macros | No scripting (extensible via custom symbols) |
| Display format | .pdi files | Server-stored displays |
| Mobile access | No | Yes |
| AF navigation | Limited | Full hierarchy browsing |
| Event frames | Basic | Native support |
Migration Path
AVEVA recommends migrating to PI Vision. While there's no automated converter for .pdi files, many organizations rebuild displays in PI Vision's drag-and-drop interface. Complex ProcessBook VBA logic may need to be moved to AF Analytics or custom PI Vision symbols.
When You Might Still Use ProcessBook
- Legacy displays with heavy VBA automation
- Air-gapped environments where web servers aren't available
- XY plots or advanced graphics not yet available in PI Vision
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