The July technology evening was presented by Charles Matthews from BCX on the topic “Virtualisation within industrial control systems”. Virtualisation is a hot topic that has moved from being discussed to being implemented at an exponential rate. However, it is easier to adopt within IT environments than within the OT space. In recent years, OT has started moving towards Ethernet-based control, which has had a big influence on the move towards virtualisation.
Johan Maritz (left) thanks Charles Matthews after the presentation.
A couple of benefits of virtualisation include:
• Limited hardware risk as the installed base will be reduced.
• Reduction of environmental footprint (less power needed and less heat generated within datacentre/rack room).
• Virtualise where certain old software applications are not supported on new hardware.
• Quicker turnaround time for application testing and server deployment.
• 100% failback scenarios.
Members enjoy the technology evening.
The most important aspect of virtualisation is the design. Sufficient time should be allowed for this to ensure faultless design before implementation. The amount of resources required is one of the most important aspects of a virtualisation design, while power consumption and capacity to install these resources must also be considered.
The term ‘hypervisor’ is widely used within virtualisation and refers to computer software, firmware and hardware that creates and runs the virtual machines. There are several types of hypervisors, with each type considered depending on the function of the virtual machine.
Virtualisation is a topic that will be around for the foreseeable future and is certainly an exciting development. The branch thanks Charles and BCX for this informative and relevant presentation.
All instrumentation and control related technicians and engineers are welcome to attend the branch’s monthly technology evenings. The planned dates for the rest of the year are: 11 October and 1 November 2018. All presentations earn CPD points for ECSA registered persons and any enquiries can be directed to the branch chairman, Johan Maritz, johanmaritz260@gmail.com or +27 82 856 3865.
SAIMC: From the office of the COO SAIMC
SAIMC
The recognition of mechatronics and computer engineering has created both an opportunity and a responsibility. Recognition means little without participation, professional registration without professional conduct, and technical knowledge without the mentorship, implementation and measurable value that industry needs.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
Hendrik Spies of SICK Automation Southern Africa presented at the SAIMC Johannesburg Technology Evening on 12 August 2026, covering the digital journey from condition monitoring to predictive maintenance.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban branch hosted S’yabonga Langa, systems performance engineer at eThekwini Electricity, who presented on applying substation automation to improve operational efficiency and service quality in modern power distribution networks.
Read more...SAIMC: Eastern Cape branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Eastern Cape Branch co-hosted a satellite viewing site for ICRA 2026 at Nelson Mandela University, giving postgraduate students, academics and local industry professionals access to premier international robotics and automation keynote sessions.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg Technology Evening SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Johannesburg Branch July Technology Evening, hosted by WIKA Instruments, covered key level measurement technologies and featured live product demonstrations from area sales manager Anthony Terblanche.
Read more...International robotics conference streams live to Africa
SAIMC
The SAIMC hosted five live-stream viewing events across South Africa for the IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation in Vienna, bringing global robotics research and technology directly to local industry and academia.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version