Siemens WinCC is one of the most powerful SCADA software packages available today and ITS is one of the leading systems integrators using WinCC to enhance manufacturing performance. ITS has developed many WinCC applications, from single user WinCC applications communicating with one Siemens PLC to large systems with four pairs of redundant servers, redundant Web servers and over 100 disparate PLCs.
WinCC is available as a basic system in the form of WinCC Flexible for use on a range of operator, micro panels and panel PCs, that are designed for use with S7-200 & 300 applications. WinCC enables the visualisation of production flows, operating processes, machines and systems in all areas. It is also a fully flexible and scalable system for use with a simple single-user system through to distributed multi-user systems, with redundant servers and multi-site solutions and with Web clients.
When using WinCC with a Simatic controller, the WinCC software directly accesses the tag and message configuration and can also use the communication parameters reducing development and time-consuming multiple entries of database configuration. This then enables WinCC to be integrated more closely with the Simatic controller, reducing engineering and lifecycle costs, and enabling the integration of diagnostics functionality that can support maintenance operations.
WinCC can also communicate with other third party devices and controllers via OPC using suitable OPC servers.
The WinCC alarm systems can record process signals and local events, saves them in archives and makes them available, sorted or filtered as required. Alarms can also result from analogue alarms due to a number of limit value violations. Each alarm can be configured to ensure that the operator has to acknowledge it. Alarms are displayed on the screen using the user configurable alarm display which can be an alarm banner or a number of specific alarm or message pages.
By applying WinCC, ITS’ team can also provide input to other elements of Simatic IT to give true shop floor to top floor seamless integration.