Resolve Cache Issues After ThingWorx Upgrade

Introduction

After upgrading the ThingWorx Platform, you may encounter several issues related to caching. Common problems include missing localization tokens in Composer labels, Advanced Grid not rendering properly, widgets not displaying correctly after installing new version extensions, and difficulty with deleting specific entities or User entities. Often, these issues come from cached files in Apache Tomcat. Here’s a straightforward guide to resolving these problems by clearing the Apache Tomcat cache.

Common Issues Observed

1. Labels in Composer Missing Localization Tokens: This happens post-upgrade, when the cache does not refresh the updated labels.
2. Advanced Grid Not Rendering Data: When upgrading to a new version, old cache files may prevent the grid from displaying updated data correctly.
3. Widgets Display Issues at Runtime: Post extension updates, cached files can cause display problems.
4. Entity Deletion Problems in Composer: Difficulty deleting specific entities due to old cached processes affecting the operation.
5. Network Issues: Requests sent from the browser might receive no response from the ThingWorx Platform due to cache-related holds.

Step-by-Step Resolution

Step 1: Stop Apache Tomcat

• Before proceeding, ensure Apache Tomcat is completely stopped. This prevents alterations or conflicts as you clear cache files.

Step 2: Clear Cached Files

• Navigate to the <Tomcat Home> directory on your system.
  • Delete Temporary Files: Remove all contents from <Tomcat Home>/temp.
  • Delete Compiled Files: Remove all contents from <Tomcat Home>/work/Catalina/localhost/Thingworx.

Step 3: Restart Apache Tomcat

• Once the unwanted files are cleared, restart Apache Tomcat. Upon starting, Tomcat will recompile all necessary application files automatically.

Step 4: Clear Browser Cache

• Ensure your browser cache is also cleared after restarting Tomcat to prevent loading outdated scripts or styles from the cache.

Conclusion

Clearing the Apache Tomcat cache is a crucial step after upgrading the ThingWorx Platform to resolve common post-upgrade issues. By following these steps, you can ensure a smoother and more stable operation of ThingWorx Composer and other related components. Always remember to clear the browser cache as well to completely refresh all elements on the client end.

With this guide, troubleshoot your caching issues effectively and keep your ThingWorx Platform performing optimally.