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Graphic terminals allow remote monitoring of plants
Published:  22 December, 2014

Rockwell Automation has announced a new range of graphic terminals that allow data from anywhere in a plant to be monitored using tablets, smartphones or other mobile devices. The Allen‑Bradley PanelView Plus 7 Standard terminals also offer machine-builders new options in terms of size, functions and connections.

The terminals are available in five screen sizes from 4–10”, as well as 4” and 9” widescreen versions. A software library that includes faceplates and add-on instructions will help machine-builders to cut development times by up to 90%, according to Rockwell.

Virtual network computing (VNC) connections allows secure monitoring of applications on mobile devices from remote locations.

To configure multiple machines more efficiently, machine-builders can save projects onto SD memory cards, eliminating the need to configure the same project for different machines. Similarly, users can save operating systems, network configurations, data, recipes and other files to SD cards to restore operations quickly if a terminal needs to be replaced. And operators can access saved diagnostics, including messages, alarms and warnings, to help troubleshoot problems and support maintenance.

Rockwell Automation's new graphics terminals can be used to monitor applications remotely

The terminals can be installed and removed using a tool-free clamping system. This is said to cut installation and maintenance times, and to minimise the risk of over-tightening and damaging the terminal during installation.

“As facilities work toward achieving a connected enterprise, machine operators are relying on graphic terminals more than ever to monitor and react in real time to a growing amount of critical data,” says Rockwell global product manager, Scott Oakley. “We’re introducing a wider range of terminal options and increasing screen resolution to help ensure data can be quickly and easily viewed in a manner that best fits each user’s application.”