Software speeds HMI configuration

Staff -- Control Engineering, 9/1/2005

Simatic WinCC flexible 2005 HMI software from Siemens allows consistent configuration of all Microsoft Windows-based Simatic HMI operator control and monitoring devices from a micro panel to PC-based solutions. Users can carry out configurations quickly, import existing tag lists in a user-friendly way, and translate projects into Asian languages using external tools. Audit option lets mechanical and plant engineering equipment manufacturers validate products for pharmaceutical industry applications. Runtimeoffers a solution for basic operating and monitoring functions, including an alarm and logging system and expansion via options on an as-required basis.

Migration from existing systems is said to be easy. WinCC flexible can import process tags from other systems as Microsoft Excel files. In addition, converters for leading manufacturers' programming software convert manufacturer-specific formats in Excel .xls format. Using an import and export interface in .xls format, text from a project can be further processed in Unicode format using external tools.

'Ready for validation' using WinCC flexible/Audit covers the main requirements of the U.S. FDA for compulsory validation of applications according to CFR 21 Part 11. Even the basic system is said to guarantee access protection, allowing only authorized personnel to make changes within the scope of their responsibilities at the operator panel. Users may add an electronic signature in the same way that target values are entered or recipe parameters are changed.

Other new features include operating devices with an expanded range of functions. Among them are micro panels and operating devices configurable using WinCC flexible Microengineering software. New operator, touch, and mobile panels offer multiple features including a flat-front panel, faster processors, an Ethernet interface, and USB on board. www.siemens.com/wincc-flexible

Siemens AG