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The latest TwinCAT package manager has undergone a major rework, introducing a more structured approach to package management. Unlike the previous version, which was workload-centric, the new update includes a dedicated view for individual packages and introduces an “Outdated” package feed. Additionally, new CLI functionalities, such as the `check` command, have been added for better automation and control.
You Should Know: TwinCAT Package Manager Commands and Usage
Key CLI Commands
Here are some essential commands to interact with the new TwinCAT package manager:
1. Check for Outdated Packages
tcpm check --outdated
This scans installed packages and lists those needing updates.
2. Install a Specific Package
tcpm install <PackageName> --version <VersionNumber>
3. List All Available Packages
tcpm list --available
4. Update All Packages
tcpm update --all
5. Remove a Package
tcpm remove <PackageName>
Windows/Linux Integration
Since TwinCAT is primarily Windows-based, here are some PowerShell and Linux equivalents for managing packages:
Windows (PowerShell)
Check installed software (alternative method)
Get-Package | Where-Object {$_.ProviderName -like "TwinCAT"}
Linux (Bash)
If using TwinCAT on a Linux-based industrial system (via WSL or native):
List installed packages (Debian/Ubuntu) dpkg --list | grep -i twincat Check for updates (if using a repository) sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade --dry-run | grep twincat
Automating Package Checks
For DevOps integration, automate package checks with a script:
Windows Batch Script
@echo off tcpm check --outdated > outdated_packages.txt if %errorlevel% neq 0 ( echo Failed to check packages. exit /b 1 )
Bash Script (Linux)
!/bin/bash if ! command -v tcpm &> /dev/null; then echo "TwinCAT Package Manager not found." exit 1 fi tcpm check --outdated | tee outdated_packages.log
What Undercode Say
The new TwinCAT package manager improves modularity with its dedicated package view, but the lack of release notes remains a concern. Automation engineers should leverage CLI enhancements (check, list, update) for CI/CD pipelines. Cross-platform scripting (PowerShell/Bash) ensures compatibility in hybrid environments.
Expected Output:
<h2>Package Name | Installed Version | Latest Version</h2> TwinCAT-Runtime | 3.1.4024 | 3.1.4028 TwinCAT-HMI | 1.12.5 | 1.12.7
For further details, refer to:
Prediction
Future updates may introduce dependency resolution and signed package verification to enhance security in industrial automation environments.
References:
Reported By: Jakob Sagatowski – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
