ABB has launched the latest version of its flagship distributed control system/ DCS, the ABB Ability System 800xA 7.0, to help industrial operators modernise without disruption and accelerate their path toward next generation automation.
As a long-term support/ LTS release, the System 800xA 7.0 provides a stable, predictable path for both existing installations and new projects, with broad Windows OS compatibility, expanded virtualisation support, and long-term continuity without disruptive upgrade cycles.
Building on ABB’s long-standing leadership in process automation, System 800xA 7.0 provides customers with greater flexibility to keep their control systems updated, secure and aligned with fast-evolving digital demands. It is based on a modern, open and modular automation ecosystem designed for interoperability, scalability and integration across industrial domains.
System 800xA is the first DCS to incorporate ABB’s newly launched Automation Extended program, allowing gradual digital integration for process and system monitoring and optimisation. Its ‘separation of concerns’ architecture creates distinct yet securely linked control and digital environments. This enables customers to implement performance monitoring, advanced analytics, and AI-driven decision support tools without affecting the crucial control layer that ensures safe operations.
“System 800xA 7.0 marks a major milestone in how we deliver innovation with continuity,” said Stefan Basenach, senior vice president at ABB automation technology. “Customers have told us they need the ability to modernise at their own pace while protecting the value of their installed systems. With 7.0, we are giving them a platform that is robust today and ready for the future. This release not only strengthens the core control capabilities they rely on, but also opens the door to Automation Extended functionality, enabling them to adopt next generation digital technologies step-by-step, without disruption.”
In addition to the new automation ecosystem, the new release introduces several key enhancements.
Extension packs as a new delivery model
System 800xA 7.0 introduces a new, modular software delivery approach through Extension Packs, enabling customers to stay on their base software version while adopting innovations on an independent lifecycle in a non-disruptive way. This reduces the need for large-scale upgrade events, minimises operational risk, and lowers lifecycle costs.
Broader operating system and virtualisation support
The system supports two generations of Microsoft operating systems, including Windows Server 2025/2022 and Windows 11/10, enabling flexible upgrade paths. It also supports multiple virtualisation platforms, including VMware and Hyper-V, giving users more flexibility in how they deploy and maintain their automation system’s infrastructure.
Strengthened cybersecurity and system hardening
System 800xA 7.0 incorporates Microsoft Defender malware protection, IEC62443-aligned security capabilities, improved certificate management, and updated core components. Together, these measures help protect critical systems against modern cyber threats while simplifying security maintenance.
Modern engineering tools and expanded connectivity
Enhancements to OPC UA client/server functionality, Ethernet-APL device integration and network-centric I/O performance improve project scalability and interoperability.
Version 7.0 also supports the latest MTP standards for ABB’s Modular Automation Orchestration Designer, helping customers meet emerging requirements for modular production.
For more information contact Anna Bayard, ABB South Africa,
| Tel: | +27 10 202 5000 |
| Email: | contact.center@za.abb.com |
| www: | www.abb.com/za |
| Articles: | More information and articles about ABB South Africa |
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