Use of OPC servers with legacy DCSes

[olicg]

The OPC based solution providers claim that through OPC they can replace legacy systems like TDC or INFI90 HMI with theirs.

My question is that these systems were made before the OPC standard came into being, how these systems can connect through OPC.

Thanks in advance,

 

[Fritzfrederix]

Hello,

Connecting a TDC3000 through OPC is very unlikely. I'me not saying it isn't possible, but I would like to see how they going to connect to the APM or HPM cpu's. With our newer system (Experion) everything is possible but with the old TDC it's not economicly interesting.
Now my question why would you want to do this? You can simply install an Experion system and keep all the hardware such the HM, NIM's CPU's just replace your PC's with experion software.

Rudi

 

[olicg]

Let me put it straight. I just use name of TDC as an example. I have Bailey INFI90 installed at my site. And we want an HMI upgrade of the system alone keeping intact the cotnrol / I/O / Communications system which is called in PCU in Bailey terminology.

Bailey is now acquired by ABB. ABB has come up with its own HMI replacement which is like using an OPC itself. So i decided to go for Experion HMI on top of Bailey controllers. Now ABB is saying that this is not a correct approach and i am biased which of course is not true.

But what issues may come up with this transition is the question that remains?

 

[sdl]

Many maufactueres are looking at building systems to replace others, i.e. Wonderware and Siemens are looking at HMI packages for the Bailey.

Think of OPC as a driver that is open at the top end. Modbus has been around since the beginning of time and there are some very good OPC servers for that protocol. As long as the programmers who write the OPC drivers understand the protocol and the equipment they are working with, you should be able to use any software package to communicate to it. I can only imagine that Honeywell will be a little protective of their systems. The reason for an HMI replacement only is cost. Replacing hardware is very expensive not only in hardware costs but installation and wiring costs. Replacing the HMI only can allow the two systems to work in parallel while the bugs are worked out of the new one.


Olicg:

ABB says that it is not the correct approach because it is not in ABB's best interest. I have seen many people put a Wonderware host on a Bailey system and I know that Siemens has a WinCC solution to do the same thing. Planning and testing is the key to these types of projects. I have been involved in several replacement projects that have all been very successful.

Good luck guys!

sdl