Software stresses data integration to augment profits

Software vendors serving automation and control through enterprise resource planning (ERP) emphasized information integration as the next big area for productivity gains, at IMS Expo 1999, April 26-29, organized by ISA (Research Triangle Park, N.C.). ABB , having reorganized related-company brands under ABB Automation , will continue product line support despite eliminating the Elsag-Bailey name. ABB’s first integrated product from the acquistion is AdvaBatch scalable batch processing software on the Freelance 2000 Compact Control System. Foxboro introduced a pre-integrated suite of scalable batch automation components called I/A Series Batch Suite. Several companies announced initiatives in the “middleware” area, linking and enhancing information between automation/control and ERP: Hewlett-Packard announced extended capabilities of HP Enterprise Link; and Sun Microsystems debuted the “manufacturing.com” middleware deployment of its SunConnect architecture. Honeywell Hi-Spec Solutions introduced the web-based EHM Virtual Testing suite to maximize a wide range of plant operations. Drawings of automation done with Visio Technical can be turned into human-machine interfaces with DataViews Corp. ‘s HMI-Go software, due in 3Q99.

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