Chances are, you’ve probably been using the same HMI, MES or SCADA program for some time in your operation, and you’ve been through several version upgrades too. Providers of these products work hard to make their software backward compatible with equipment and operating systems as well as create new features users want.
The challenge is making the window to control systems and their data transparent, and supplying information the operator needs without providing excess buttons and alarms. In addition, users are looking for systems that work on plant terminals, tablets and phones, and have a consistent interface while connecting to devices. And, the software has to be easy to configure and program for engineers.