Network management software essential for smart manufacturing
August 2019System Integration & Control Systems Design
Visibility of network devices and infrastructure is just as important as production machinery for maintaining reliable and efficient factory operations. For example, an unrecoverable fault in a network switch or damaged cable could cause production to come to a halt. When a technician is called to fix the issue, the process can take hours if network management software (NMS) is not available. It is common for smart factory applications to have anywhere from hundreds to thousands of connected devices, making it nearly impossible to find the source of the problem without extensive manual effort. In this scenario, the ability to identify the error and pinpoint its exact location on the network is crucial to bring operations back online in the shortest amount of time. For many businesses, these types of downtime situations could easily become costly in terms of lost revenue. This is where NMS plays a crucial role to ensure operational reliability.
Basic scada software limited to monitoring production equipment will eventually become inadequate for manufacturers. As smart manufacturing is adopted, or extended, the need for a robust NMS will become a requirement. So, what are some of the key capabilities the NMS should have?
Scalability: Moxa’s MXview is an integrated management platform that can discover networking devices and SNMP/IP devices installed on subnets.
Remote accessibility: similar to how Google Glasses are being adopted by factory workers, mobile apps offer network engineers a better way to remotely view and manage facilities and devices. For large deployments with interconnected smart manufacturing sites across multiple locations, mobile apps are becoming a requirement when implementing NMS.
Whether designing a small or large scale IIoT deployment for smart manufacturing, planning for future growth is good practice. Therefore, designers need to create a networked infrastructure that can evolve as the business grows.
Time-sensitive networking RJ Connect
Editor's Choice Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
In this article, we will explore what is driving the rise of time-sensitive networking, how it is reshaping industrial efficiency, the challenges when deploying this technology, and ways to tackle these challenges.
Read more...Control system upgrade: Smelting SAM Systems Automation & Management
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Systems Automation & Management recently completed a major control system upgrade in the smelting industry. The project was delivered on budget and achieved a positive ROI for the client.
Read more...Gottwald drives upgrade: Ports and harbours Abacus Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
In the ports and harbours sector, Abacus Automation completed a significant modernisation of a Gottwald crane, improving both operational reliability and serviceability.
Read more...Agogo Integrated West Hub Project: FPSO/subsea offshore Angola Moore Process Controls
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Agogo Integrated West Hub project represents a historic milestone in the FPSO and subsea industry, achieving first oil offshore of Angola. This project is the first FPSO deployment since ANPG’s establishment in 2019, and the first major project for Azule Energy since 2022.
Read more...The silent risk inside data centres RJ Connect
IT in Manufacturing
In recent years, data centres have become prime targets for cybercriminals. While most attention is often placed on protecting IT infrastructure such as servers, routers and cloud connections, there is a hidden vulnerability that many organisations overlook, the operational technology inside their facilities.
Read more...Harnessing the power of OT networking RJ Connect
Fieldbus & Industrial Networking
Businesses are increasingly embracing IT/OT convergence to stay ahead and capitalise on advantages such as smarter factories and higher efficiency. This article provides practical insights and guidance to help you navigate these challenges effectively.
Read more...Digital transformation from the edge DirectLogic Automation
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Edge-enabled PLCs are an accessible and affordable way for most users to collect and create value from use field-sourced data.
Read more...Enhancing cybersecurity for connected serial devices RJ Connect
Editor's Choice
Industrial network security is not a luxury option, it is a necessity. Moxa’s secure serial device servers and protocol gateways have helped our customers ramp up their connectivity security in a variety of industrial applications.
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