System Integration & Control Systems Design


Industrial tablets

September 2005 System Integration & Control Systems Design

Futuristix is offering a line of integrated hardware, software and services from Wonderware that combines hardware, InTouch 9.0 HMI software, plant communications capabilities and support services. These new offerings enable a consistent plant intelligence software solution across a broad spectrum of industrial applications.

InTouch 9.0 software, featuring SmartSymbol technology, is part of the FactorySuite A2 product series, which provides plant-wide solutions based on the ArchestrA industrial automation and information software architecture from Invensys. The 'A2' signifies the use of ArchestrA technology.

The Wonderware industrial tablets and touch panel computers are ready to function out of the box. The open PC platforms are pre-integrated with InTouch and communications software, so no additional software installation is required. The Wonderware industrial tablets and touch panel computers enable customers to use Wonderware's familiar InTouch software with increased versatility and mobility. This can, in turn, reduce considerable time and expense for operator training, IT software administration and management and vendor costs.

The full functionality of InTouch software on Wonderware industrial tablets and touch panel computers can be used to provide visualisation and control in many automation scenarios previously serviced only by closed proprietary 'dumb' terminals. Proprietary, standalone hardware terminals can now be replaced with networked PC-based HMI applications that are fully connected to supervisory control and plant intelligence operations.

Customers can now replace 'dumb' panels, which offer scarce features, functions and plant communications, with versatile, feature-rich Wonderware Touch Panel Computers to manage their manufacturing processes. The industrial tablets have been ruggedised for the extreme environments that exist throughout process industries. This allows customers to have access to the power of InTouch software everywhere they need it. Wonderware industrial tablets and touch panel computers have achieved some of the most stringent certifications in the industry while providing unmatched durability, reliability and features.

Mobility while working

Engineers and operators are no longer tied to a single station or desk to perform their duties throughout the plant. Becoming mobile enables customers to increase their productivity and efficiency while performing normal daily tasks on the factory floor.

The InTouch software resident in Wonderware Industrial Tablets has been enhanced to integrate Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system features such as inking and annotation. Inking enables customers to write values into data links in their own handwriting, which can save a tremendous amount of time for people who will use an Industrial Tablet computer as a mobile data collection station. Annotation enables users to mark up a graphical display with pens and highlighters. By making notes directly on HMI displays, users can quickly and precisely communicate areas of concern or interest, allowing for quick resolution of production inefficiencies.

Wonderware industrial tablets come standard with wireless capabilities. Users can communicate directly with the wireless-enabled supervisory control systems while travelling throughout the plant or to different locations. Wireless access is achieved through a virtual private network designed to provide tight security for all communications and operations. Several docking station options also are available so that customers can use Industrial Tablets in a variety of conditions and environments.

The extensive I/O and system-communication capabilities of the Wonderware software can unlock valuable realtime information from connected plant equipment. The Touch Panel Computer's display has been designed for use in harsh industrial environments and offers an open, modular design for flexibility and versatility. The computers can be easily customised to meet a variety of requirements and quickly expanded through quick connections and disconnections of the display from the computer. The touch panel computers offer support for both Microsoft Windows XP Professional and XP Embedded operating systems.

For more information contact Justin Tweedie, Futuristix, 011 723 9900, Justin@futuristix.co.za, www.futuristix.co.za





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