Commissioning does not need IT skills, a VPN (virtual private network), a fixed IP address, or open ports in firewalls that would worry IT departments. It works over the Internet or a mobile network and allows users to connect remotely and securely to machines to perform programming, monitoring and data-logging.
The Secomea system consists of three key elements:
• the SiteManager controller, which connects to machines via Ethernet, serial or USB, and comes in a choice of models, depending on whether you want to communicate via a LAN, WiFi or 3G;
• the LinkManager – a Web- or Windows-based client with a simple interface that allows single-click connections to the devices you are monitoring; and
Secomea's remote access system is said to be easy to set up and secure
• the GateManager – an M2M communication server that links the first two elements and handles the connections and encrypted traffic. It is available either as a cloud-based service or a stand-alone server.
User access is controlled via a simple drag-and-drop interface, and the system provides multi-level authentication and AES/SSL encryption.
In the UK, the Secomea system is available from X-STK|Applied Automation, which has bases in Plymouth and Cardiff and is a division of Applied Automation (UK). “We are already seeing a lot of enthusiasm for Secomea,” says its managing director, David Rowe. “The ease of use and state-of-the-art security sets it apart from other remote access options. With a starter pack at £345, Secomea is a cost-effective solution. Return-on-investment is achieved quickly as savings are made on travel costs and time.”
