Since 2016, LGH File Inspector has been the trusted tool for AVEVA™ InTouch HMI users who need quick, reliable access to their historical data. Whether it’s pulling files from network drives, automating queries with batch files, or setting up scheduled reports, the Software Toolbox team has helped users integrate LGH File Inspector into a wide range of solutions.
In this post, I have collected and summarized tools and learning material to ease your experience in applying LGH File Inspector and help you get started quickly. Towards the end you will find the highlights of the webinar I hosted covering the new features of LGH File Inspector Version 4, that addressed several issues users previously faced.
Reliable Access to Your AVEVA InTouch Historical Data
LGH File Inspector works by querying the daily historical log (LGH) files generated by AVEVA InTouch and exporting the results into CSV, Excel, or AVEVA Historian Fast Load files. With its lightweight design and simple setup, it eliminates the challenges of fragile spreadsheets and custom parsing tools. It’s become a simple solution for:
- Compliance & reporting – automating shift reports, compliance logs, and quality tracking.
- Data aggregation – securely moving data from isolated or offline sites.
- Redundancy – providing backup logging when a primary historian isn’t available.
- Automation – enabling batch execution or scripting for hands-free reporting.
The result? Fewer errors and reduced engineering effort, all while making historical data easier to use across your operations.
Case Study with Real-World Results: Pharma Compliance Case Study
A prime example of LGH File Inspector in action comes from the pharmaceutical industry, where a life sciences company replaced fragile Excel macros with LGH File Inspector to automate compliance reporting. Partnering with ACE, a Software Toolbox system integrator, they eliminated manual errors, reduced downtime, and saved the equivalent of a full month of engineering time over five years. Read the full case study here.
LGH File Inspector V4: Introducing Industrial Graphic for InTouch HMI
Together with our development partners at WorkSmart Automation, we are committed to meeting our users’ needs with every release, and Version 4 is no exception. Many users have asked for the ability to run queries on demand directly from within AVEVA InTouch. You might be thinking, “Wait, is that even possible?” The answer is yes!
Previously, this was only achievable using AVEVA InTouch scripting, but queries couldn’t be modified at runtime, limiting flexibility. Version 4 changes that by introducing a powerful new option: The LGH File Inspector Industrial Graphic for InTouch HMI. This embedded version lets operators query LGH files directly within their HMI windows, eliminating the need to launch a separate desktop application. Benefits include:
- Improved ease of use – stay within your HMI screens instead of switching applications.
- Enhanced cybersecurity – supports zero-trust principles by removing the need for additional application launch permissions.
- Touchscreen-friendly workflows – designed for use on tablets and mobile-friendly HMIs.
- Integrated visibility – view query results alongside real-time process data in your HMI.
While the standalone application still supports advanced automation and scripting, the Industrial Graphic delivers convenience, security, and efficiency for users who want reporting at their fingertips.
As product manager, I hosted a webinar to introduce this new option, spark new discussions with users, and demonstrate how to build, modify, and run queries on demand, all without leaving your HMI screen.
Webinar Recap: What We Covered
This recent LGH File Inspector Version 4 webinar guided attendees through the latest updates and use cases. Here’s a quick summary of what we discussed:
- Introduction & Review – What LGH File Inspector is and how it’s used.
- What’s New in Version 4 –
- Simplified, standardized licensing.
- Support for AVEVA InTouch 2023 SP1R2 LGH files.
- New Industrial Graphic option.
- Industrial Graphic Walkthrough – Step-by-step demo of embedding LGH File Inspector into AVEVA InTouch HMI.
- Standalone vs. Industrial Graphic – Pros and cons of each deployment model.
- Resources & Support – Where to access guides, videos, blogs, and technical documentation.
- Q&A Session – Addressing licensing, scripting, performance, training resources, and feature requests.
Check out the highlights video below to see the LGH File Inspector Industrial Graphic in action and find out just how easy it is to implement and use!
To check out the rest of our webinars, please view our Webinar Recordings page.
Ready to dive into the LGH File Inspector Industrial Graphic for InTouch HMI?
If you have questions or want to see if LGH File Inspector is right for your project, our Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are here to help. Contact Software Toolbox to discuss your needs or get guidance from our support team.
Prefer to explore on your own? Download the free trial and start your proof of concept today.
