Modern-day visualization of process systems is based on one of two technologies, depending on the automation system used: For a PLC, monitors with an integrated PC and open operating system are used. Currently, this is usually Windows 10 IoT. Visualization packages are installed on this system to exchange data and current values with the PLC via integrated digital protocols, and to display this information.
For a PC-based visualization of a process control system (DCS) or production control system (MES), monitors featuring an integrated thin client and a network connection are now used. These monitors are also the only option that supports the virtualization of the process computer architecture.
Monitor System for the Process Industry
Pepperl+Fuchs offers both technologies in its VisuNet device series. These industrial monitors are available both in Atex Zone 1/21 and Zone 2/22 versions, as well as for industrial non-hazardous production areas in the process industry. There are different mechanical versions of the VisuNet industrial monitors for the general chemical industry (VisuNet GXP and IND), the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry (VisuNet GMP), and the outdoor oil and gas industries (VisuNet XT), available with different screen sizes.
To have access to the same functionality with thin client-based remote monitors throughout the entire production plant, there are also small, industrial VisuNet box thin clients, to which up to four standard monitors can be connected. The latest generation is the BTC12, which has two DisplayPort interfaces and supports Ultra HD (4K) setups. Two network interfaces enable redundant connections. All VisuNet thin clients from Pepperl+Fuchs are based on Windows 10 IoT LTSB and the firmware RM Shell 5, which has been enhanced with additional IT security functions and the option for the customer to install a virus scanner.
