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, [email protected] or +27 82 856 3865.
SAIMC: From the office of the CEO SAIMC
SAIMC
The INSPIRE Conference 2026 brought industry and academia together to explore advances in automation, AI, mechatronics and engineering. It also marked a new direction for the SAIMC as it works to build future-ready engineering talent and strengthen South Africa’s automation industry.
Read more...SAIMC Durban takes to the skies SAIMC
SAIMC
SAIMC Durban members went behind the scenes at the ATNS facility at King Shaka International Airport. The visit offered a fascinating look at the sophisticated technology and highly trained people keeping South Africa’s skies safe.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
At the SAIMC Durban branch September 2026 technology meeting, Werner Das of SICK explored how deep learning is moving industrial machine vision beyond rule-based systems into practical, everyday quality control on the factory floor.
Read more...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 INSPIRE 2026 brings together industry, robotics and research
SAIMC
The inaugural SAIMC INSPIRE Conference will bring together the industrial automation, robotics and academic communities for two days of presentations, panel discussions and networking, and will explore developments in smart manufacturing, mining, robotics
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