Edge-related capabilities every HMI and SCADA system should have

Edge Computing platforms enable easy scalability, allowing you to start with a small HMI/SCADA solution (single node) and add more (multiple nodes in multiple locations) as your needs grow. The experts at Stratus Technologies explain more.

Edge Computing platforms allow for workload consolidation, which is important in an HMI/SCADA system because it allows you to consolidate multiple physical assets into a single, more advanced, virtualised Edge Computer or server. Fewer devices deployed means fewer devices to maintain and operate, less panel space and wiring required, and the ability to have all your software assets available in a single redundant and industrially hardened Edge device. Plus, one single device makes it easier to implement solutions in industries that require good manufacturing practices (GMP), validation, and regulation.

Edge Computing platforms also allow for operational resilience another important feature in an HMI/SCADA system because operational resilience is what preventing unplanned downtime is all about. Your software is only as good as the platform it runs on. Your mission-critical applications need a platform that prevents unplanned downtime. You need an Edge platform that provides redundancy and is easy to implement: a ruggedised Edge platform you can install in harsh environments (temperature, vibration, humidity, Class I Division 2); a platform you can install in a control panel together with the PLCs, drives, and other control equipment; and a platform that helps secure your control infrastructure from cyber-attack.

Edge Computing platforms enable easy scalability, allowing you to start with a small HMI/SCADA solution (single node) and add more (multiple nodes in multiple locations) as your needs grow. With Stratus, you can expand from a single ztCEdge node to a pair that provides redundancy, upgrade to a version with more capacity, or migrate to an ftServer no big rip and replace all through a single vendor, with efficient stocking of spares, that’s less expensive in the long run.

Extensibility and flexibility on a budget

Edge Computing platforms allow you to easily add new capabilities and functionality to your HMI/SCADA solutions without breaking the budget. You can empower your operators by giving them the ability to use mobile devices for monitoring and control, in addition to the normal panel and control room computer displays.

Edge Computing platforms allow you to easily replicate and duplicate software, solutions, and applications multiple times. With Stratus’ built-in virtualisation, you can simply drop pre-tested, characterised, and validated software applications into your virtual machine. You don’t need to be an IT professional or programmer. Any technician can do this effortlessly, which is important if your HMI or SCADA device is installed in a remote and/or hazardous location, where no IT professionals can help set up and maintain infrastructure.