Ethernet-Supported Visualization: Monitoring and Control Directly in the Ex-Zone
The VisuNet visualization platform from Pepperl+Fuchs, based on transfer via Ethernet, now enables significantly simplified and flexible data transfer over greater distances by means of network technology. With the modular VisuNet system even complex process sequences can be controlled and monitored from the Ex-Zone.
In order to be able to present process data in the field, a platform is required, that must satisfy the technical boundary conditions as well as withstanding the harsh environmental conditions. Due to the open architecture of current process control systems, communication on the basis of Ethernet is an indispensable requirement for the visualization components.
Extremely harsh ambient conditions prevail in process plants: Severe fluctuations of temperature and air humidity, as well as chemicals contained in the air, mechanical loading from machinery-induced vibration and regular cleaning of the plants result in high demands for the visualization platform. If the visualization systems are to be used in the Ex area, then an appropriate approval is an essential prerequisite.
The classical concepts for data transfer from the Ex area necessitate KVM amplifiers (keyboard video mouse), since the PC video interfaces are unable to guarantee more than a few meters of transfer distance without an amplifier. When using KVM amplifiers the data has either to be transferred by means of fault-prone analog technology, or additional expensive A/D converters / D/A converters have to be included between the KVM amplifier and the actual transfer route.
The philosophy of the VisuNet concept is that all the data can be transferred without additional components, via a network. The use of a connection on the basis of Ethernet and the TCP/IP protocol means that proprietary structures can be dispensed with. A VisuNet positioned in the Ex-Zone then becomes a "completely normal" hardware component in the network, which is uniquely identifiable by its IP address.
VisuNet PC and Remote Solution VisuNet RM
Via LWL the data transfer range can be increased up to two kilometers. The data transfer from the host PC to the display and also from the keyboard, the mouse and other peripheral equipment, such as a barcode reading device or RFID reader to the PC takes place completely digitally.
The "Remote Desktop Protocol" (RDP) is used as the protocol for data transfer to and from the monitor. Thus a Microsoft protocol is used, which is an integral part of the Microsoft operating systems Windows Vista, Windows XP Professional and Windows 2003 Server.
With VisuNet PC there is a panel PC with a monitor, keyboard and mouse. The core components are supplemented with an extensive accessory program to adapt the solution to special applications in the process industry, for example in the pharmaceutical, chemical and oil and gas industries. This includes keyboards with integrated mouse functions, various stainless steel housings and mounting components.
VisuNet is approved in accordance with ATEX, Categories II 2G (Zone 1 Gas) and II 2D (Zone 21 Dust) and is also available in a non-Ex version. The appropriate IEC approval will be available shortly.