Have just finished working with a intergrator to replace a Beckhoff CX 1000 unit with a Advantech Industrial Panel. Kept having connection problems with the CX1000 unit, at times would disconnect itself from the internal network, and at times not able to connect laptop pc to unit. It appears the problem was due to fact that the CX1000 does not support page filing. Had to present the unit to coorperate management in order to prove concept and get approval for funding, so trashed the CX1000 for the Advantech.
Kept the Twincat Software for the control of the application, due to cost of the software and appears to be a powerful IEC 61131 package. Looked at also using a CTC Parker unit preloaded with CX Supervisor, but was able to get a quick loaner from Advantech (tech support was very good) in one day in order to present prototype to management.
At the moment using a visual studio.net package for the HMI screens that the integrator developed.Was used to help keep cost down due to not having to pay for run time license fees for additional unts.
Going to possibly build about 300 more the machines and working with the integrator to explore all kinds of options such as advantech with cx supervior and cx programmer, or advantech and still use the Twincat plc software.
Not sure about keeping the Visual Studio.net due to fact that I do not have much experience with the package.
At the moment looking at lots of options.
Was told by Advantech that they will be using there own version of a iec 61131 programming package in the next month or so.
My first experience with using any type of industrial PC product. Most of my experience with PLC and motion control devices.
Any suggestions from others in the industry with experience with these type of control units.
Kept the Twincat Software for the control of the application, due to cost of the software and appears to be a powerful IEC 61131 package. Looked at also using a CTC Parker unit preloaded with CX Supervisor, but was able to get a quick loaner from Advantech (tech support was very good) in one day in order to present prototype to management.
At the moment using a visual studio.net package for the HMI screens that the integrator developed.Was used to help keep cost down due to not having to pay for run time license fees for additional unts.
Going to possibly build about 300 more the machines and working with the integrator to explore all kinds of options such as advantech with cx supervior and cx programmer, or advantech and still use the Twincat plc software.
Not sure about keeping the Visual Studio.net due to fact that I do not have much experience with the package.
At the moment looking at lots of options.
Was told by Advantech that they will be using there own version of a iec 61131 programming package in the next month or so.
My first experience with using any type of industrial PC product. Most of my experience with PLC and motion control devices.
Any suggestions from others in the industry with experience with these type of control units.