Released on: 18, November 2006
, Author: Naeem Ismat
, Audience: Software related
OPC & Open Connectivity Culture in Industrial Automation
by Naeem Ismat
There was time when HMI or industrial software communication with controllers wascomplex due to variety of reasons. Every one had his own versions of drivers anddifferent type of interfaces. Big names of automation and control industry had somesort of monopoly. Not any more now ...
Thanks to OPC Foundation and OPC Data Access Specification to move real-time datafrom PLCs, DCSs, and other control devices to HMIs and other display clients.Previously OPC Specification is now called the OPC Data Access Specification.
Just 4-5 years back, if you were using HMI iFix software of Intellution (now GE),and wanted to use their ABR driver to communicate with AB controller like SLC, PLC5etc, it was MUST to use RSLinks software layer. Customer had no choice, except topay more and buy RSLinks. It was due to Rockwell Automation. End users had no choiceas they have to buy this type of interface software to maintain previous investment.Now, it is not easy for manufactures to force customers to buy additional software.
In past following was only way to go if you want to access real time data in iFixfrom AB controllers:HMI iFX > IntellutionÂ's/GEÂ's ABR Driver > RockwellÂ's RSLinks Software> PLC/Controller.
Now it is very straight forward and no need to buy RS Links Software.. HMI iFX > GEÂ's Industrial Gate Server (IGS) > PLC/Controller.
As customers know that OPC standard exist in todayÂ's world, so they show concerns ifmanufactures do not offer OPC connectivity. Now customerÂ's expectation forcemanufactures of automation products (PLCs, DCSs, and other control devices) to offersupport for OPC drivers.
Due to current and emerging OPC specification, automation and controlÂ's engineerslife is better now, less communication problems. If noting works, this path alwayswork .
[Software + OPC Client] [OPC Server + Controller/Device].
Those who will adopt OPC standards on plant floor today, tomorrow thay can addbetter values as they will have choice of best buy in control market, best decisionoption and flexibility to add products from different manufactures in controlsystems, if they are not happy with existing one. Access to data from existingdevices will not be issue.
Source: Express-Press-Release.com
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