OPC and Integrators
Posted on June 3rd, 2008 by Eric MurphyThere has been a lot of focus lately on providing system integrators with more tools, services and training on OPC topics. As OPC becomes more prevalent and systems grow in size and complexity more and more system integrators and distributors are implementing OPC systems.
I’ve blogged before on the new OPC Foundation membership option is called the SI&D category. The SI&D membership is intended to provide a mechanism to facilitate the system integrators and distributors being able to design, develop and certify custom software.
OPC vendors also recognize that integrators have to deal with various suppliers of automation applications like PLCs, DCSs, sensors, end devices, production equipment, safety systems, etc. Project implementers know that even though data connectivity is a small part of the project scope, it can be a huge project risk due to the inherent difficulty of establishing multi-vendor communications. Some vendors now offer more than just a wide selection of OPC connectivity to integrators. Partnerships like the MatrikonOPC Integrator Program offer data connectivity services like: initial communication architecture design, connectivity software options and implementation support and training.
Programs such as these are a response the belief that end-users expect that system integrators should increase their proficiency of the use of the OPC technology. I’d like to hear your thoughts on system integrators. From the integrators: Will you become an SI&D member? Do you see value in partnering with vendors with OPC expertise? From the end-users: Does SI&D membership or participation in an Integrator Program affect who you would choose as the system integrator on your next project?
June 5th, 2008 at 7:18 am
I’m in favor of such a program since systems integrators don’t have a compelling $500 reason to be regular OPC members, but stand to gain from such training. On the whole I think systems integrators tend to act like cowboys and would benefit from such programs that their product vendors offer.
I don’t think that a significant percentage of end users are knowledgeable in the “weeds” of protocols or standards organizations to know much about OPC. This is something that is changing. Blogging efforts like yours and advertising - particularly word of mouth, are a great ways to educate users of such standards. I’m looking forward to the day when the first question out of end users mouth is, “Do the pieces talk OPC? We’re about interoperability here and we want SI&D members integrating our project.”