Industrial automation has become an essential pillar of productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing sector.
In an ever-changing world, it’s crucial for companies to adapt quickly to new technologies and changes in their infrastructure. One of the keys to achieving this is the integration of industrial automation software.
In this article, we explore three compelling reasons why companies should seriously consider adopting this technology.
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Use your existing applications on new equipment
One of the main reasons why companies choose to integrate industrial automation software is to be able to use their existing applications on new equipment. Here’s why this is essential:
- Maintain programming openness and flexibility: With industrial automation software designed in compliance with IEC 61131-3, you can maintain the programming openness and flexibility of your applications. This means you’re not restricted to a specific programming language, making it easy to integrate different applications.
- Reuse previous investments: Instead of developing new applications specifically for each new piece of equipment, existing applications can be adapted and configured to suit the new equipment. This reduces the cost of developing new applications and maximizes the value of previous software investments.
- Standardization and consistency: Using existing applications promotes standardization and consistency in industrial automation. You can avoid fragmentation of your systems by using tried and tested applications.
- Reduced risk: Using existing applications that have already proved their worth reduces the risks involved in implementing new applications, because you know they work effectively.
Stay flexible and don’t depend on a specific programming language
Flexibility is a major asset in industrial automation. That’s why adopting software based on IEC 61131-3 is essential :
- Choice of programming languages: This standard supports five different programming languages, so you can choose the one that best suits your project. You can also change languages at any time, or opt for C/C++ programming to create your own function blocks. You can also add external code such as Matlab, Simulink or third-party widgets.
- Easier integration: By choosing industrial automation software that is not tied to a specific language, you facilitate the integration of existing equipment and new technologies. Your equipment can communicate easily with different systems without worrying about programming language compatibility.
- Reduced dependency: Automation software based on the IEC 61131-3 standard reduces dependency on developers specializing in specific languages, giving you greater freedom to choose your development team.
To be free to evolve and use your applications on any type of hardware
Hardware compatibility is crucial to the smooth evolution of your systems. Here’s why it matters:
- Compatibility with all operating systems: Choosing industrial automation software that is compatible with all operating systems guarantees greater agility and flexibility. You can easily adapt your automation systems to your company’s specific needs.
- Integration into any environment: Space-saving industrial automation software integrates easily into any environment, giving you the freedom to use your applications on a variety of hardware types.
In conclusion, the integration of industrial automation software offers many advantages, including the ability to use your existing applications on new equipment, remain flexible in terms of programming language, and remain free to evolve and use your applications on any type of hardware. These compelling reasons make this technology a wise investment for companies seeking to remain competitive in a constantly evolving industrial world.
To find out more about industrial automation software and what it can do for your business, download our free industrial automation white paper.
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