operator interface software

[pooslinger]

I am looking to replace my curent 10 year old operator interface to a new one. I have a choice, Iconics, Wonderware or RSview. I run all AB plc 5 and slc 500 PLCs with about 800 tags. Can anybody with experence provide me with pros and cons about these systems?

 

[spook6869]

I can't speak for the other systems, but given your situation there are some clear advantages with RSView. First, it has been my experience that like plays well with like. Theoretically, since both your controllers and visualization products come from the same place, integration will be easier. Second, if you have a Rockwell tech support contract today, you will be covered for RSView. Finally, your controller migration path might eventually lead you to the AB Logix engine. There are *tremendous* advantages in using RSView with Logix, and at that time RSView will be the choice partner. So if you chose RSView now, when the time comes to upgrade your controllers you will have RSView software/training/experience etc.

 

[controlsdude]

I have used RSview using the serial port to the front of the processor. RSView uses rs enterprise or its another rslinx(this is a negative strike against rockwell). Why rockwell did not use rslinx like in the old panelbuilder software I have no idea. As in all rockwell software, it does not behave very well. Anyway, I had 16 panelview+ terminals to get configured and downloaded. Of course you have to walk all around and get them configured first for the settings so I could see them on rslinx. See them on rslinx and then proceeded to download. Now I can not see them on rslinx after the download. The way it configures for communications(its a wysiwyg type of comm config, its my best attempt to explain, it was painful experience). Now if you have to redownload, since rslinx can not see it you have to go back and default the comms on the panelview, very painful.

I even explained it to a rockwell rep and he saw what was happening and said yes this is a bug.

I think the RSenterprise (suedorslinx) was the worst thing they did. Then you also have the security features that drill down into the windows security, talk about a nightmare. Sometimes I think you have to be IT pro to get this configured.

I do not recommend the rsview software, not ready for prime time. I do not know if it was the fact using serial interface or if ethernet is a better way to go. Anyway, everyone I have asked has had a difficult experience with rsview versus the panelbuilder32 software. Its amazing how rockwell can screw up a good product.

Now wonderware I thought was just as complicated, I guess its a pick your poison type of thing.

Not sure about the iconic software.

I have used proface panel displays, these are easy to use.

I have used CTC panel displays, I thougth these were very hard to use.

 

[Iamjonscranium]

wonderware in totally compatible with rockwell products. where i work, we do mostly Wonderware and iFix. they are both more powerful thatn rsview. you can script commands for buttons, create animations, script commands for the whole application, etc. i have only a limited knowledge of rsview, but from what i've been told, there are things you cannot do with rsview that can be accomplished with wonderware. somebody can correct me if i'm wrong.

also, i installed rsview on my computer and had to get it reformatted. it locked up my windows navigation, and i couldnt copy, paste, or move in windows. luckily, i had just started and had minimal info on my pc.

 

[NWBeaver]

I have used RSView without any problems.
As jmounce mentioned above, there are different versions of RSView and RSLinx. I have used RSView32 and RSViewME.
RSView32 uses the regular version of RSLinx, while RSViewME (Machine Edition) uses the newer RSLinx Enterprise.

PanelView Plus applications require RSViewME and RSLinx Enterprise.

An important thing to realize when working with PV+ applications, is that the communications setup is part of the application that is developed in RSViewME, and is downloaded with the application. I suspect that may be jmounce's problem.