| HMI applications have come a long way since their inception in the 1980s as a means of interfacing with plant floor processes. Increased sophistication of graphics, greater connectivity with other plant floor devices and a wide range of functionality enhancements have changed the way users interact with their systems. Originally, SCADA systems were designed for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, providing a reliable means of aggregating the analysis being performed by multiple RTUs. But with today's high speed production demands, SCADAs are required to perform Calculation and Analysis in real time on the plant floor, effectively combining the once disparate worlds of HMI and SCADA. This poses a huge advantage for manufacturers. While there are many choices in HMI/SCADA technologies, it should by no means be considered a commodity purchase. There are many factors, from usability, connectivity to other systems, and strength of the supplier's support offering that can mean the difference between buying a product that will be obsolete in two years and buying a solution that will help your business compete globally for many years to come. Here are 10 reasons why GE Fanuc provides a differentiated solution for your business. |