An Introduction

What is OPC?
• OPC = OLE for Process Control
• OLE = Object Linking & Embedding
• Technical Specification that defines a
set of standard interfaces
• Based on OLE, COM and DCOM
• A common language for industrial
devices
• http://www.opcfoundation.org/
 Back in time…
• 1980’s
• DOS-based personal computers…
 Enter Windows…
• Windows-based personal computers…
PC-based HMI
 PC-based HMI w/ OPC

Client
Server
 OPC Client/Server
• Clients
• Initiate all communications
• Ask for data
• Servers
• Respond to requests
• Cannot initiate communication
• MUST HAVE BOTH!!
 Where to they reside?
Client Server Client and
Server

Client Client Client Server

 Where do they reside?
Client

Client Serial or
Ethernet
Server

Server?
 CIMPLICITY
• Plant Edition
• OPC Client
• OPC Server (Option)
• Machine Edition
• View: OPC Client
and Server
• PC Control: OPC
Server
 OPC Servers
• CIMPLICITY
• Kepware
• http://www.opcsource.com
• Software Toolbox
• http://www.softwaretoolbox.com
• Matrikon
• http://www.matrikon.com
• Descartes OmniServer
• http://www.omnidssi.com
• InGear
• http://www.ingear.cimquest.com