January 2006System Integration & Control Systems Design
Device and system inter-connectivity and data centralisation have become very real requirements in industry today. To address these requirements, the OPC foundation was formed to promote a standard to facilitate simple inter-connectivity of systems. www.opcfoundation.org
The OPC Foundation specification is used to develop OPC server and OPC client interface software. OPC server software is generally a standalone program whereas an OPC client is usually an integral part of an application such as a scada or a Data Historian. All OPC clients should be able to communicate with all OPC servers. In simple terms, the OPC server program installed on a computer on the network, with the correct device licence installed, serves the device's tag values to any application, on the network, with an OPC client interface.
* Install the OPC server program.
* Create and configure your OPC server project and install the correct driver licences for the various PLC types to be accessed.
* Configure the tags for which values are required. This also allows the OPC client to browse the required tags. An Excel spreadsheet (CSV) may be used for bulk import of tags.
* Some OPC servers have a very useful built-in OPC client tool for testing and viewing the tag values.
* OPC server is generally a read and write interface.
* Numerous PLC driver licences may be installed on one OPC server allowing direct connection to numerous PLC makes and models.
* Numerous PLCs of the same type may be connected and licensed with only one driver licence, ie, one Siemens suite licence will allow connection to the whole range of Siemens PLC in that suite, thus keeping costs down.
* Some OPC's servers run for 2 hours at a time for testing purposes which is very useful to ensure functionality before purchasing a driver licence.
* When you download the OPC server, at no charge, you will receive all the drivers available for this OPC server. These include drivers for most PLCs, DCSs, and devices with Modbus or DDE interfaces (all run for 2 hours at a time for testing).
* Some OPC servers have a Wonderware InTouch driver which can also import tags defined in the Wonderware InTouch project.
* OPC Connectivity may be used for many applications. Other OPC-based software programs and tools include Redundant OPC Server manager, OPC server linking and bridging software and OPC Client-based SMS and GPRS alarm and data transmission software for remote monitoring and datalogging.
The state of the SI industry remains strong
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The system integration (SI) industry is expanding with the adoption of AI, automation and data sharing, allowing companies to improve operational efficiency and competitiveness across diverse sectors.
Read more...The symbiotic relationship between OEMs and SIs Schneider Electric South Africa
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
While businesses tend to turn directly to original equipment manufacturers OEMs or vendors when embarking on IT projects, the role of the SI as a key facilitator and partner cannot be overstated.
Read more...Flexible and precise dispensing technology Beckhoff Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Scheugenpflug ProcessModule axis system forms the basis of Atlas Copco’s dispensing and screwing cells and a flexible integration platform for general contractors and machine builders. Precise process sequences are ensured by TwinCAT CNC and servo drive technology from Beckhoff.
Read more...The time is now for systems integrators
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
Integrators combine sophistication regarding technology innovation with practical, hands-on experience. Collaborating with systems integrators is the means to significant productivity improvement, powered by the convergence of automation and information and operations technology.
Read more...System integrators are a diverse market
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
System integrators (SIs) combine expertise on emergent technologies with real world experience. Working with SIs, it’s inevitable that at some point someone will say, “We’re not a typical SI.” And in many ways, it’s true. SIs come in all shapes and sizes.
Read more...Avoiding the pitfalls of PLC and scada control system integration Iritron
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Upgrading your control system by integrating PLCs with scada systems should be a simple seamless process. Regrettably, the industry is plagued with control system integration and upgrade myths and misconceptions that can lead to liability issues, project delays, cost overruns and decreased plant performance.
Read more...EtherCAT measurement terminals for vehicle development at Mercedes-Benz Beckhoff Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
At the Mercedes Technology Centre plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, car axles are examined with the highest precision on four test benches, in parallel with road tests and simulations. All data is acquired using PC-based control from Beckhoff.
Read more...Loop signature 23: Tuning Part 2.
Editor's Choice System Integration & Control Systems Design
It is my opinion that most tuning methods are very crude. They do of course also offer a starting point for tuning if one is not fortunate enough to have a sophisticated tuning package like a Protuner around.
Read more...PIC microcontrollers with integrated FPGA features in TME
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The new PIC16F131xx microcontrollers in TME’s offering from Microchip are ideal for the evolving and miniaturising electronic equipment market, offering efficient power management and predictable response times for controllers.
Read more...Five smart machine trends you need to know Adroit Technologies
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The last ten years have brought about dramatic advances in technologies that OEMs had never realised would affect their designs or the saleability of their machines, much less impact business models and profits so dramatically. The following discussion will cover key advancements and recommendations all OEMs should be adopting in their design processes to stay current and competitive.
printer friendly version