I am wondering if it is possible to grab controller variables directly from the PLC without having to use GSV and write that value into another tag. We are trying to record when changes are made to the controller, but if the only way to access this tag is via GSV, then you could disable the GSV and prevent the tag from updating.
No, you'll have to keep putting that value into a tag that can be accessed by Ignition's driver.
Not my favorite method, but you could place this in a protected routine which only certified users have access to, this would prevent anyone else from being able to edit the routine and negate the GSV.
yeah I thought about it but, like you said, its not my favorite method either.