Rockwell Automation announces program to replace legacy DCSs

December 14, 2006
Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation
News

Summary

Program replaces aging DCS systems with the Integrated Architecture™ for improved performance, reduced costs and increased plant-wide integrationMILWAUKEE, Dec. 14, 2006 – A new three-step migration program from Rockwell Automation helps manufacturers cost efficiently replace aging DCS systems with the highly flexible, multidisciplined Logix Control Platform for improved productivity, lower costs and easier access to parts and service. Responding to a market gap created by many vendors no longer supporting their systems, the program provides manufacturers with a phased approach that eliminates many of the costs, risks and complexities involved with migrating legacy DCS systems while providing a single platform for integrating both process and discrete applications. Implementing a single control platform across all plant-floor applications provides manufacturers with a number of advantages, including reduced spare parts requirements, more synchronized processes and lower maintenance and training costs. It also improves plant-wide integration by enabling the seamless transfer of real-time data from disparate control systems for improved decision making and increased manufacturing flexibility. “The risk of losing existing investments or impacting the production process are real concerns anytime a manufacturer is considering an upgrade to new advanced technology,” said Mike Vernak, program manager for the Legacy DCS Migration Solutions Program, Rockwell Automation. “The three-step program provides manufacturers with a defined DCS migration strategy while laying the groundwork for a smooth transition to a more flexible and scalable information and control architecture.”Phase one of the migration plan involves replacing legacy human-machine interface (HMI) consoles with Rockwell Software FactoryTalk View Site HMI infrastructure. In phase two, the legacy process controllers are replaced with Logix controllers, while allowing customers to reuse existing I/O modules to maximize the return on their existing investment. Phase three involves removing the legacy I/O infrastructure and replacing it with the Logix 1756-based I/O platform.As part of the program, Rockwell Automation has developed custom field termination unit cable designs that allow the removal of legacy I/O without the need to remove field wires, significantly reducing installation costs and risks associated with I/O replacement. The custom cables plug directly into the legacy field termination units on one end and into the 1756 I/O module on the other.The Rockwell Automation migration tools, utilities and services are specifically designed for transitioning from many leading DCS brand-name systems. “Our legacy DCS migration capabilities will continue to expand in the coming years with programs designed to convert the majority of the industry-leading legacy DCS platforms. In addition to solutions available today for Honeywell, ABB and Fisher PROVOX, upcoming solutions will accommodate Westinghouse, Moore and Yokagowa, and other DCS systems,” Vernak said.Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 23,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries. Learn More

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