... hardware and CPC
ASC offers a wide variety of hardware and system architectures to meet the varying requirements of our customers. Whereas most customers accept ASC's recommended hardware choices, others may want a specific brand of hardware, or merely have ASC install CPC on existing hardware.
What PC will I get with my CPC system?
We have standardized on Dell for all of our control computers. We've found that Dell products are reliable and easy to install and maintain.
Because computer models constantly change, we can't tell you exactly what Dell PC you will get with a system, but it will be a mid-level desktop with high reliability. Today (11/13/2007), that computer is a:
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Dell Optiplex, Pentium 3.2 Ghz, 80GB hard drive, 512MB RAM, 10/100 Ethernet card, Windows XP Pro, 17" flat-panel monitor, CD-ROM
What is the minimum PC requirement?
Though CPC will run on any Windows-NT box, we suggest a computer that doesn't feel sluggish with the software running:
Minimum requirements
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Operating systems: Windows 2000, or Windows XP Pro
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Processor: PIV 2GHz
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Hard-drive: 10 Gbyte hard-drive
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Memory: 512 Mbyte RAM
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Floppy drive
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Keyboard and mouse
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Ethernet card, 10/100 or 100
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ISA slot or slots (only if your existing system uses an ISA data-acquisition board)
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Graphics card capable of XGA resolution (1024x768) using True Color settings.
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17" monitor (min), capable of XGA resolution (1024 x 768 is CPC standard resolution)
Sure, but in most cases it's not recommended.
In our experience the customer is better served if ASC provides all of the software and hardware for a control system upgrade. This avoids the N.O.P. syndrome; that is, if there's a problem and it's PC related then it is "not our problem". If we provide everything, then all problems in the warranty period are our responsibility - not yours.
There are certain instances when ASC does recommend that the customer provide computers for a system. 1.) If you work for a large company (ie. Boeing, Lockheed, Ford, etc.) that has a capable PC, IT, and service department, 2.) you want to connect the PC(s) to your network and your IT department wants a specific PC, and 3.) you need to save some money and don't care about the N.O.P. syndrome.
What PLC or controller will I get with my CPC system?
The answer is none. The CPC software running on a PC is a fully functional "soft PLC". Additionally, it is also an incredibly powerful process controller, chart recorder, man-machine interface, and analysis/reporting tool. With very few exceptions, CPC systems don't need to utilize PLCs, setpoint controllers, or chart recorders. Instead, inexpensive I/O hardware is installed to connect the CPC computer with the hardware on the equipment.
No PLC? What happens if the PC fails?
That is a concern with any system - PC or PLC, but ASC has addressed that issue. 1.) CPC systems are extremely reliable. Many companies have run for years with one PC controlling multiple pieces of equipment in their plant with no backup, and 2.) CPC systems include a proprietary capability which allows a second optional PC to be a hot-backup for the main PC. This provides automatic backup control In the highly unlikely event of the main PC failing. The second PC can also be used for viewing, reporting, and control during a normal run.
What I/O hardware does ASC recommend?
ASC has standardized on Opto22's Ethernet Snap I/O hardware for most of our control systems. We have found this hardware to be reliable, fast, flexible, expandable, and much more affordable than equivalent PLC systems. Additionally, this hardware is always in-stock at Opto22 in Temecula, CA.
What hardware does CPC support?
Through the years, we've added drivers for the following hardware platforms and communications protocols. If your hardware isn't listed, please contact ASC for driver availability.
| Allen Bradley CompactLogix | Allen Bradley ControlLogix | Allen Bradley PLC5 | Allen Bradley SLC | Opto22 SnapIO |
| Modicon Modbus | Keithley Metrabus | HP 3497 | HP 75000 VXI | GE Fanuc |
| Siemens | Honeywell TDC3000 | Koyu/PLC Direct | Leeds & Northrup | Yokogawa |
| Device-Net | Profibus | IEEE-488 (HPIB) | Mitsubishi | OPC |