In our previous blog on the topic, we covered how to set up a logging server and a basic trend graph. Today, in this blog, we’re going to dive a little deeper into the subject of Trends by exploring how to modify a trend graph part in Smart Editor.
Recipes are one of the most important roles an HMI can perform. The ability to quickly move data in and out of an HMI speeds up startup, everyday operations, and system maintenance. Fortunately, Monitouch HMIs have a robust recipe handling system that enables data to be transferred from both internal memory and external storage, such as a USB flash drive or integrated SD card reader.
In this blog, we cover the basics of setting up a simple recipe that loads values to individual internal memory addresses as part of an ongoing series on recipes with Monitouch HMIs.
Non-volatile memory is essential for storing critical data. It allows for persistent configurations and direct data access of the persistent without having to rely on external media. These advantages come with the Human-Machine Interface (HMI), meaning any external media does not have to be cared for or warrantied.
Every Monitouch HMI comes with more than a hundred kilobytes of Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), whose data is maintained by a coin cell battery in the rear of the HMI. This area is used for Logging and Alarms, but the programmer can also use it for saving everything from recipes to machine configurations. In this blog, we will cover how to assign SRAM to be used as an internal memory device and a simple use case with a Macro.
Alarming is one of the most crucial functions an HMI performs, enabling easier troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, and a focus on machine health. Alarming on a Monitouch V Series HMI has an incredible depth of functionality, from code execution to emailing detailed reports. In this blog, we will be covering the basics of setting up an alarm and informing the user.
One of the most common and powerful tasks an HMI can handle is the logging of information (data) from connected devices such as PLCs, VFDs, sensors, etc. Logged information can be used to generate trend graphs, export records for analysis, and troubleshoot alarms or machine failures – ultimately supporting continuous improvement across operations.
The world of Industrial Automation runs on a special kind of alphabet soup. PLC, HMI, SCADA, VFD… these aren’t just letters; they’re the language of the plant floor. While the engineering textbooks give you one definition, we all know they have a second, unwritten meaning—the one you learn at 2 AM when a line goes down.
Ever found yourself frustrated by unexpected machine issues while you’re unable to see it from your desk or office? You’re not alone! In today’s highly digital and continuously expanding manufacturing environment, remote access capabilities are no longer optional but essential to keeping frontline operations flowing smoothly. In this blog, we cover how to connect to a Fuji Electric Monitouch V10 HMI using the Virtual Network Computing (VNC) protocol. This protocol allows users to access and/or operate the Human-Machine Interface (HMI) screen remotely without needing to be physically present at the machine. All you need is a network connection, so plug in and let’s get started.
At Live Automation (LIVE), we believe the future of industrial automation lies in strong partnerships and shared innovation. That’s why we’re proud to be a founding member of the ONDEX Automation Platform-a powerful ecosystem built to accelerate growth, streamline collaboration, and unlock smarter, more scalable solutions across the industry.
As automation continues to evolve, so do the demands placed on integrators, OEMs, and manufacturers. Digital Transformation, edge connectivity, cybersecurity, and data interoperability are no longer “nice to have”-they’re essential. The ONDEX platform was designed with exactly that in mind.
Older legacy control systems can be more than just a headache for manufacturers to deal with. Utilizing obsolete parts make it increasingly more difficult to purchase replacement parts – a sometimes lengthy process depending on part availability – with the length of operational downtime dependent on the availability. Once the part is available, then there’s the associated task of the programming resources required to get your factory up and running again.
Between the cost of system repairs and system down time, you can easily start to chip away at your bottomline. And when left unaddressed for too long, eventually your old control system will be the culprit behind more frequent unplanned downtime. Yet, the biggest risk with PLC and HMI solutions becoming obsolete and failing comes if you don’t have a back-up of the program. Read more
As you may be experiencing first-hand, world events like COVID-19 impact the ability for manufacturers to insure uninterrupted production given supply-chain pinch points as suppliers, transport logistics, etc. are affected by government regulations. And for those manufacturers who have a labor force impacted by illness, or who have had to limit operations due to resource availability, the fear of a total stop in production is an added stress at this already heightened time.
To minimize downtimes and stoppages from a machine performance perspective, and to have a plan to cover workforce absences, forward-thinking manufacturers are setting up their factories with remote access to machines for monitoring, troubleshooting and maintenance purposes. With PLC remote access offering fast, secure and easy remote monitoring, the short-term investment produces a quick return for most companies who are realizing the need to transform the way in which they work in the wake of COVID-19 and its impact on the global economy. Read more
