Omniflex has developed an OPC server for GSM cellular networks to support short message service (SMS) transmission of data from remote outstations that require monitoring. The suitability of GSM networks has become a reality due to their coverage, reliability and low cost of ownership, comments Loudon, sales & marketing director. There is no infrastructure cost to consider as you have with in-house radio-based systems and you can extend your monitoring countrywide - in fact it is possible to use the technology outside the country's borders too. A simple SIM card purchase with suitable GSM provider package is all that is required.
The Omniflex OPC server and Maxiflex outstations integrate to form an easy-to-use front end for scada monitoring systems. Reporting by exception (Change of State) or on a time cycle basis, the Maxiflex outstations are capable of interfacing to digital and analog signals or even intelligent devices with serial protocols, eg, Hart, Modbus or custom. The Maxiflex outstations can be used in telemetry mode or as controllers at the front end. Setpoint parameter changes may be downloaded via the OPC server where and when required. Forced outputs are also a feature of the system.
The OPC server provides the interface to any windows-based application supporting the OPC standard, for example, scada systems or asset management systems. A feature of the system is a call count monitoring system to keep a check on call traffic and provide early indication of over use. This is especially important where change of state inputs (door alarms, etc) on the outstation can trigger unnecessary calls if a fault develops on a door alarm. The OPC server allows individual selection of digital input for change of state and these can be changed on-line without going out to the RTU.
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