I/A Series R2 Graphics Fail to Display in Internet Explorer Due to ActiveX and Java Applet Restrictions

[Product_Support]

Issue

When accessing I/A Series R2 station graphics via a web browser, the graphic area appears blank (gray/white) or shows a placeholder box. Graphics do not render or respond to interaction. In some cases, repeated Java security warnings appear when loading graphics.

Product Line

TAC IA Series

Environment

• I/A Series R2 software releases: 522.v2, 529, 532
• Enterprise Server (ES) or UNC-based stations
• Access via Microsoft Internet Explorer (IE 7/8 or later with security updates)

Cause

Microsoft Internet Explorer security updates changed how ActiveX and third-party Java applets are initialized.

• IE now requires explicit user activation (click-to-activate) for embedded applets.
• This behavior blocks Niagara R2’s Java-based graphic components, preventing proper rendering.
• Java security prompts may also appear due to stricter applet execution policies.

Resolution

Apply the workaround introduced in R2 522.v2 to disable IE’s ActiveX activation fix:

1. Backup station database before changes.
2. Open Admin Tool → Host → Edit File → System Properties.
3. Append the following lines at the end of system.properties (do not remove # comments):

   # This is used to disable the IE ActiveX activation fix. If set to
   # false, then the user will be required to click on the# false, then the user will be required to click on the applet
   # before he is able to interact with it (only effects IE users).
   ie.activex.activation=false
   

4. Save the file and restart the station (or reboot the UNC/ES).
5. Repeat steps for Enterprise Server and UNCs as needed.

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Additional Notes / Best Practice

• This workaround only applies to Internet Explorer; modern browsers do not support R2’s ActiveX/Java graphics.
• Persistent issues may indicate Java security settings or outdated station versions—verify compatibility.