MVE sites have settings in the site object for enabling MVE annotation and MVE electronic signature functionality. You can set the MVE site to require only annotations, only electronic signatures, both annotations and signatures, or neither annotations nor signatures for objects, audits, and alarms on validated devices. Non-MVE sites may optionally define and use annotations, however, electronic signatures are specific to MVE sites.
When enabled, electronic signatures challenge users whenever they attempt to make a change to the system. Before the system performs the user’s request, they must supply a signature and state a reason for the change. The mechanism the Metasys system uses for expressing that signature is a re-authentication challenge, in which users must enter their user name and password for MVE re-authentication. This process is recognized as an electronic signature.
In addition to collecting the electronic signature, the Metasys system may also require the user to enter or select an annotation. Annotations are statements that further describe the change being requested. After the user name and password are verified and an annotation is selected, the user request is performed.
You can configure electronic signatures and annotations at the device and object levels. For additional information, see Setting alarm priority thresholds for requiring MVE electronic signatures and MVE annotations.