It used to be that a proprietary or Windows CE based operator panel was good enough for packaging machinery.
After all, human machine interface (HMI) graphics were limited, as were requirements for data acquisition, business software and interactive operator training and troubleshooting tools. It was a big advance just to replace pushbuttons with a box that could hold recipes and communicate with a PLC.
How to run more software apps economically on HMI panels
But the drive for productivity on the packing floor has generated a whole generation of new software tools, and naturally, they tend to be Windows™ based. Adding a dedicated industrial PC in parallel to HMI such as a Panelview™ may not be an elegant or economical option. But running the HMI and all the Windows apps on one industrially hardened, touchscreen PC is a different story.
To make the process seamless, B&R Industrial Automation is offering popular 10", 12", 15" and 19" screen sizes with preconfigured data drive images allowing users to load their existing FactoryTalk applications without a lengthy software installation. In addition, the panels come with the Windows XP embedded operating system and include the capability to drive a second display unit simultaneously.
Future proofing through portability
Protecting the user's longterm investment, all the software resides on a Compact Flash disk. Therefore, should a unit ever need to be replaced, the runtime license is portable, moving with the Flash disk instead of being embedded into the cost of the new HMI panel.
Mainstream processors do more, cost less
Using the latest in mainstream processors, such as the Intel® Atom™, one of these panels is actually powerful enough to replace all the legacy PLC, motion control modules and ‘black box' robotic controllers that may currently be attached to the HMI. But the panels are also sufficiently cost effective to simply upgrade the HMI panel in FactoryTalk® View applications.
Ruggedized construction for the factory floor
They are also extremely rugged PCs because the company designs and manufactures in-house to include board design, heavy gauge standoffs and connections, avoidance of ribbon cables, exceptional product line longevity, and extensive testing and manufacturing controls.
For more information visit http://www.br-automation.com/pvp
After all, human machine interface (HMI) graphics were limited, as were requirements for data acquisition, business software and interactive operator training and troubleshooting tools. It was a big advance just to replace pushbuttons with a box that could hold recipes and communicate with a PLC.
How to run more software apps economically on HMI panels
But the drive for productivity on the packing floor has generated a whole generation of new software tools, and naturally, they tend to be Windows™ based. Adding a dedicated industrial PC in parallel to HMI such as a Panelview™ may not be an elegant or economical option. But running the HMI and all the Windows apps on one industrially hardened, touchscreen PC is a different story.
To make the process seamless, B&R Industrial Automation is offering popular 10", 12", 15" and 19" screen sizes with preconfigured data drive images allowing users to load their existing FactoryTalk applications without a lengthy software installation. In addition, the panels come with the Windows XP embedded operating system and include the capability to drive a second display unit simultaneously.
Future proofing through portability
Protecting the user's longterm investment, all the software resides on a Compact Flash disk. Therefore, should a unit ever need to be replaced, the runtime license is portable, moving with the Flash disk instead of being embedded into the cost of the new HMI panel.
Mainstream processors do more, cost less
Using the latest in mainstream processors, such as the Intel® Atom™, one of these panels is actually powerful enough to replace all the legacy PLC, motion control modules and ‘black box' robotic controllers that may currently be attached to the HMI. But the panels are also sufficiently cost effective to simply upgrade the HMI panel in FactoryTalk® View applications.
Ruggedized construction for the factory floor
They are also extremely rugged PCs because the company designs and manufactures in-house to include board design, heavy gauge standoffs and connections, avoidance of ribbon cables, exceptional product line longevity, and extensive testing and manufacturing controls.
For more information visit http://www.br-automation.com/pvp
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