Benefits of Control Systems Remote Access
October, 2022
Author: Arshdeep Singh
Why Remote PLC Access?
Controlling an industrial automation system is no longer limited to the site. Remote Access has been increasingly used to boost the efficiency of automation and reduce downtime. Remote access modules are becoming steadily more available from different manufacturers that allow your system to connect to the internet and be controlled from anywhere with an internet connection. Additionally, the toolsets provided by these modules make the set-up process surprisingly easy to complete with a reliable and secure connection.
Having a remote access setup in your system allows for many capabilities including viewing and controlling HMI, troubleshooting, and downloading to the PLC, connecting to the cameras, and diagnostics on the VFDs, among others. Furthermore, this system has the added benefit for your contractor to remotely connect to the system to diagnose any minor/major faults that might occur, allowing a quick resolution and the least downtime possible for the machine.
How does it work?
Almost all of the latest generation PLCs, HMIs, Cameras, and other control devices come with an ethernet port and support one of the following protocols, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, PROFIBUS, POWERLINK, Sercos III, Modbus TCP, and CC-Link IE. The remote access module LAN side directly plugs into your local control system ethernet switch with the help of an ethernet cable. Depending upon the model selected, you can either directly enable a WAN connection by plugging into your router or have it connected to your Wi-Fi network just like any other device. The remote access module can connect your computer from anywhere to the local network switch by simply logging into the initial account that the module was set up, allowing access to all the devices connected with ethernet on your system. Moreover, a virtual private network (VPN) provides an added layer of protection by encrypting the data being shared through the cloud.
Summary
Overall, a Remote Access system is essential for modern control systems. Remote connectivity is the first step in a lot of troubleshooting and often leads to a resolution before a site visit. This system is greatly beneficial by allowing for 24/7 connectivity to the system for diagnosis and peace of mind.
Get Remote Access to Your System
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