PARTsolutions offers the possibility to connect ERP systems via link-database. This results in the potential to represent customer-specific business processes.
The prerequisite is that the value range variables are declared by the manufacturer according to the categories of the type identification [Identification type], because only then can an error-free conversion of these, or the resulting NB and LINA, be ensured in the ERP system.
The distinction also plays a role when generating the ERP number. For value range variables of type functional characteristic [Function attribute], the value remains changeable even if an ERP number has been assigned; for value range variables of type geometric characteristic [Geometry attribute], the value is pinned as soon as an ERP number has been assigned 
as soon as an ERP number is assigned.
The type identification [Identification type] is set in PARTdesigner in the variable manager [Variable Manager].
Following options are available:
According to the declaration, the presentation in the PARTdataManager is different.
In the following the use of the individual attributes is explained:
The functional characteristic [Function attribute] is used for stroke and angular positions, for everything that defines a mechanical movement in a part/assembly (e.g. the stroke position of a cylinder).
The geometry characteristic [Geometry attribute] is used for characteristics that have an influence on the geometry, e.g. if the geometry of the part or assembly changes due to the variable (e.g. max. stroke length), or if components are added or removed, e.g. "Sensor yes/no" or "Option on/off".
![[Note]](https://webapi.partcommunity.com/service/help/latest/pages/jp/ecatalogsolutions/doc/images/note.png)
Note In the case of a cylinder, for example, a distinction must be made between the HUB, which is a geometric feature [Geometry attribute], and the stroke position, which is a functional feature [Function attribute]. With ERP functionality, the HUB is pinned as soon as an ERP_PDM_NUMBER has been assigned; the stroke position is not pinned. The pinned status is visible on a special icon
. Different strokes are also assigned different ERP numbers with ERP functionality; different stroke positions are not.The dimensional characteristic [Dimension attribute] is used for semi-finished products and profiles that are produced in running meters (here variable L).
Note Whether a dimensional characteristic [Dimension attribute] is pinned when an ERP number is assigned
is set in the configuration file depending on the desired internal company workflow.[a]
If you need another value, use the "neutral" row (without ERP number) beside the pinned one. (Whether rows without ERP number may be exported depends on the desired company internal workflow.)
[a] See Section 4.16.2, “ Pin dimension feature on/off / plinkcommon.cfg -> Block [PARTdataManager] -> Key "LockDimRange" ” in PARTsolutions Administration - Manual .
The characteristic attribute [Object attribute] is used for values that are required for dimensional and/or product standards, for order numbers or technical specifications, etc. (characteristics that have nothing to do with geometry or function).
Note A characteristic [Object attribute] is pinned as soon as an ERP number has been assigned for the relevant line. It is marked with a corresponding icon
icon.If you need another value, use the "neutral" row (without ERP number) beside the pinned one. (Whether rows without ERP number may be exported depends on the desired company internal workflow.)
