Knoxville, TN – Version 1.2 of Online Development’s xCoupler enterprise transaction module now provides a bi-directional interface between Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs and IBM WebSphere MQ systems for simple two-tier communications. This new capability lets users seamlessly exchange data from plant floor devices connected to ControlLogix, such as sensors, robots, RFID controllers, etc., with WebSphere MQ enterprise messaging systems. This new version enables enterprise users to monitor specific plant floor device data and be notified of any alarms.
The added bi-directional capability enables manufacturers to send messages to plant floor devices for activities such as changes in batch recipes, build orders, inventory adjustments and other manufacturing or distribution commands. xCoupler modules eliminate cost, complexity and security issues common to PC- or HMI-based custom middleware software configurations used to transfer data from factory floor devices to enterprise systems. These modules simply snap into the backplane of ControlLogix PLCs to exchange device data with WebSphere MQ systems in its native language.
The module’s WorkBench configuration tool features easy-to-use drag and drop operation for setting parameters between ControlLogix connected devices and WebSphere MQ for simple and easy setup with no special programming skills required. It also eliminates the need for enterprise drivers and upgrade maintenance programming in the future.These modules also eliminate the security, virus and data integrity problems associated with factory floor PC-operated three-tier systems connected to the enterprise. The xCoupler module’s operating system is virtually immune to security problems and virus attacks and provides exceptional data accuracy and timeliness.
According to ARC Research Director Craig Resnick, "The bi-directional xCoupler enterprise transaction modules fulfill a clear need for simple and secure data exchange between the plant floor and the enterprise. ARC believes technologies such as xCoupler are critical for manufacturers to enable secure high-speed integration of their plant floor devices and dynamic interoperability with business systems."
About Online Development
Online Development is a "fast track" developer of factory automation hardware and software for OEMs such as Rockwell Automation and ProSoft products in the industrial market space. Since its founding in 1989, the company has focused on developing the technologies needed to enable various leading brands of PLCs/PACs to communicate with field devices or other controllers. These technologies provide connectivity between various proprietary factory automation controls, barcode scanners, modems, printers, HMIs, sensors, popular factory/warehouse network systems, and enterprise systems to provide real-time communications throughout the enterprise.Integral to the company's success is its use of the latest online CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and help desk tools.
These tools provide OEM customers robust engineering and product support; plus streamline transactions while reducing procurement and product support costs.Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Online Development is privately owned and has offices in Cleveland, Ohio, Cincinnati, Ohio and Barcelona, Spain.
