OPC Member Press Releases

Wonderware PacWest standardizes on OPC connectivity, becomes a MatrikonOPC authorized reseller
Press Release from: MatrikonOPC, on May 15, 2012
Edmonton, AB, May 15, 2012 - MatrikonOPC announced today that Wonderware PacWest, a MatrikonOPC authorized reseller in Western Canada and the United States Pacific Northwest region, has joined MatrikonOPCs Global Partner Network. Adding secure, reliable OPC connectivity to its portfolio, PacWest now offers complete OPC data connectivity solutions as an integral part of its sales consulting, certified technical support, certified training, application consulting and services. "MatrikonOPC and Wonderware PacWest have a strong portfolio of offerings that together can deliver additional value and competitive advantage to customers," said Jeff Gould, general manager, MatrikonOPC. "With the new pace of business were experiencing today, access to critical, real-time data is crucial for the success of our customers businesses. Organizations of all sizes need to be able to quickly understand, in context, how well their production and processes are running. Wonderware and MatrikonOPC provide an award winning suite of connectivity solutions that allow our customers to get that data and put it into context, enabling the agile decisions required in business today," said Glenn Carlson, president, Wonderware PacWest. Learn more about the MatrikonOPC Global Partner Program here: http://www.matrikonopc.com/partners/index.aspx About MatrikonOPC MatrikonOPC provides equipment data connectivity software based on the OPC standard. The MatrikonOPC promise is to empower customers with reliable data access to all major automation vendors systems, provide practical OPC training and deliver superior client care. MatrikonOPC builds close relationships with its customers to best address their business and technical needs. With offices in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, MatrikonOPC provides local presence on a global scale. MatrikonOPC is a vendor neutral connectivity supplier. Visit MatrikonOPC at www.MatrikonOPC.com. This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on managements assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our performance in both the near- and long-term. For more information, contact: Wassim Daoud Regional Marketing Manager, MatrikonOPC +1 780-448-1010 extension 4632 wassim.daoud@matrikonopc.com ... [Full Story]

Softing's released second article on OPC UA
Press Release from: Softing Industrial Automation GmbH, on May 8, 2012
Newburyport, May, 2012 - Softing has announced that it has started publishing a series of eight (8) articles on OPC UA in collaboration with a renown industrial automation magazine based on extracts from Softing's OPC book. Please follow the link to read the second article: "OPC UA Origin, Development and Objectives" "The OPC article series published in the SPS Magazine is an excellent value for both: the visibility for OPC in general and the expertise shown by Softing," says Stefan Hoppe, President OPC Europe. "I highly appreciate your passion - great job!" The latest edition of Softing's OPC Book provides an excellent overview of the fundamentals, implementation, and application of standardized data exchange via OPC. A key focus is on the new OPC generation OPC Unified Architecture that allows for platform-independent data and information exchange. In case you want to implement a OPC product you can rely on Softing's OPC UA Development Toolkits (.NET and C++). These toolkits enable developers to build OPC UA clients and servers for moving data and information from the factory floor to the enterprise level. Softings OPC UA Client Development Toolkit is aimed at supervisory control and human-machine interface software application providers, while the OPC UA Server Development Toolkit is aimed at manufacturers of automation equipment, such as controllers, drives and sensors. Many companies and organizations have factored-in Softings extensive experience with embedding OPC technology into industrial components. With more than 1,600 companies relying on Softings OPC development kits to generate thousands of compliant OPC products, Softing holds the lions share of the world-market for OPC development tools. About Softing Industrial Automation Softing Industrial Automation is a world leading provider of industrial communication products and technologies for manufacturing and process automation. Our products are tailored to the requirements of system integrators, device vendors, machine and equipment manufacturers or end users and are known for its ease of use and functional advantages. For additional information please contact us International - Tel: +49 89 45656 340 or info.automation@softing.com US, Canada, Mexico - Tel: (978) 499-9650 or Ken.Hoover@softing.com or www.softing-ia.com ... [Full Story]

Kepware's Industrial Automation Drivers Featured at Global Events
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on April 26, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, April 26, 2012 — Kepware Technologies, the leader in Advanced Communications for Automation, announced today that the company is bringing its award-winning communication and interoperability software solutions for the Automation industry on a global tour. Leveraging industry-leading events in April and May, the company will showcase its core product offering, KEPServerEX, as well as other products to solve today's automation communication challenges. "Kepware is experiencing an increasing interest, across all our vertical markets, for comprehensive communications for automation solutions," said Tony Paine, President and CEO of Kepware Technologies. "To address these needs, Kepware will extend our presence to numerous industry events, and showcase our suite of applications that are proven to help organizations deliver process improvement and increased business efficiencies." Kepware spring events line-up includes: April 24–27, 2012 — Hannover MESSE, Hannover, Germany. April 25–28, 2012 — CSIA Executive Conference, Scottsdale, AZ. April 30 – May 2, 2012 — Manufacturing Leadership Summit, Palm Beach, FL. April 30 – May 3, 2012 — Offshore Tech Conference (OTC), Houston, TX. May 15–17, 2012 — ENTELEC Conference (The Energy Telecommunications and Electrical Association), Houston, TX. May 16, 2012 — OPC Day Europe 2012, Reinach/Basel, Switzerland. May 22–23, 2012 — The Automation Conference, Rosemont, IL. June 12–14, 2012 — Kepware Partner EXchange, Portland, ME. "These industry events offer the perfect venues to share best practices, useful tips, and truly understand our customers' and partners' needs. We look forward to our busy spring schedule," Paine concluded. ... [Full Story]

Kepware Strengthens Industrial Automation Commitment in Brazil
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on April 24, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, April 24, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in Communications for Automation, announced today that industrial automation solutions provider Exata Sistemas de Automação Ltda has been named Kepware's Preferred Distributor partner throughout Brazil. The agreement underscores the company's dedicated efforts in Latin America to empower a broad range of organizations across such industries as Mining, Agricultural Product Manufacturing, Oil & Gas, and Power Transmission and Distribution with solutions to better connect, manage, monitor and control diverse automation devices and software applications. Exata achieved Preferred Distributor status based on the company's deep understanding of Kepware's portfolio, and extensive as well as established business relationships throughout the region. "In our industry, to be successful in Latin America it is critical a partner display a deep understanding relative to data acquisition via seamless communications with industrial equipment," said Tony Paine, President and CEO of Kepware Technologies. "For nearly thirty years, Exata Sistemas de Automação has built a track-record of success across the region, delivering communications for automation solutions that best meet customers' needs. We're confident that Exata is truly the best fit and most logical choice to help Kepware expand its Latin American presence while penetrating new vertical markets within the region." Kepware established the close partnership with Exata in order to better respond to the region's growing need to produce enterprise platform solutions for industrial automation applications. With a long track record of helping companies establish centralized communications to connect disparate devices, Exata is ideally suited to help Kepware meet these demands. "We have a long history of working alongside Kepware, and are always impressed by the performance and scalability of their automation communications and interoperability platform solutions. Time and again, customers report that Kepware's products have a direct impact on improved decision-making and business operations across their organizations," said Murilo Bevilaqua, Director of Marketing, Exata Sistemas de Automação. "I have no doubt that our newly expanded relationship will produce immediate, impactful results for our customers." ... [Full Story]

Kepware Strengthens Industrial Automation Commitment in Italy
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on April 16, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, April 16, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in Communications and Automation, announced today that industrial automation solutions provider EFA Automazione has been named Kepware's Preferred Distributor partner throughout Italy. This agreement strengthens each organization's ability to provide regional food and beverage companies, building automation and discrete manufacturing organizations and major industry verticals with comprehensive automation solutions for connecting software and hardware systems as well as improving overall business operations. "Having a local, reputable business partner is a must for successfully conducting business in Italy," said Tony Paine, President and CEO of Kepware Technologies. "With ten years of experience and a complete solutions approach to customer requirements, EFA Automazione constitutes the perfect business partner. We are excited to welcome them to our growing family of Preferred Distributors." EFA Automazione was selected as a Preferred Distributor from among the region's numerous organizations due to both its brand recognition and its ability to offer clients best-of-breed solutions for dramatically improving business operations. EFA Automazione will resell Kepware's flagship communications platform, KEPServerEX, and supporting products LinkMaster, RedundancyMaster and ClientAce as part of their solutions portfolio. "The Kepware brand is known globally for extremely innovative communications and automation solutions that continue to bring a significant return on investment to customers," said Gianfranco Abela, Marketing Manager of EFA Automazione. "We are proud to form this special partner relationship that will both enhance our current offerings and allow regional companies to benefit from new, scalable solutions that seamlessly connect, manage, monitor, and control diverse automation devices and software applications." ... [Full Story]

Kepware Strengthens Industrial Automation Commitment in Spain
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on March 21, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, March 21, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in Communications and Automation, today announced that industrial automation and infrastructure solutions provider Logitek SA has been named as Kepware's Preferred Distributor partner throughout Spain. Today's announcement reinforces Kepware's regional commitment for supplying award-winning solutions to connect, manage, monitor, and control diverse automation devices and software applications. Logitek was selected as a Preferred Distributor from among the region's numerous organizations due to the company's in-depth industrial automation and communications experience, state-of-the art competency center for training seminars and technical trouble shooting as well as its commitment to customer support. Tony Paine, President & CEO of Kepware Technologies, elaborates upon his company's decision to select Logitek. "Over the years, Logitek has demonstrated their deep technical team experience and clear understanding of the market's needs to establish digital communications to automation devices and software applications for the purpose of improved operations and informed decision making. We welcome Logitek to our family of growing Preferred Distributors around the globe," Paine said. Logitek will leverage Kepware's flagship product, KEPServerEX, to optimize equipment control and business decision making in their key vertical markets of Water/Waste Water, Building and Facility Management, Energy, Pharmaceuticals, Food and Beverage and Automotive. Jordi Rey, Managing Director, Logitek, continues, "Efficient data acquisition across different networks is a key requirement for many organizations within our market. However, it's often difficult to find a proven technology to effectively extract the information. Kepware's KEPServerEX provides our customers with the solution needed to fully integrate machinery and device-level information into their HMI, SCADA, MES, Historian and ERP systems with minimal effortto strengthen the business decision making process." ABOUT KEPWARE TECHNOLOGIES: Kepware Technologies, established in 1995, develops a wide range of communication and interoperability software solutions for the Automation industry. Our flexible and scalable solutions are for connecting, managing, monitoring, and controlling diverse automation devices and software applications. Our industry endorsed software solutions improve operations and decision-making throughout all levels of an organization. Kepware Technologies' mission is to be "Your Standard for Connectivity". ABOUT LOGITEK: Logitek is a technological consulting company with over 30 years experience in the Spanish market. The company specialises in technology and advisory services in the field of automation for the industrial and infrastructure management sectors. It offers consulting services based on such prestigiously renowned technological solutions as Kepware, as well as other specific technologies in the field of remote control, with devices such as the LKremote RTU, UHF radios, GPRS modems and Tetra, among others. In fact, Logitek is at times the only company in Spain specialising in the implementation of these tools. Its headquarters is located in Barcelona and it has commercial branches in Bilbao and Madrid. ... [Full Story]

SyTech Releases XLReporter Version 10.0
Press Release from: SyTech, Inc - The Report Company, on April 18, 2012
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   SyTech Releases XLReporter Version 10.0 Excel Reports and Forms for Industry FRANKLIN, MA. April 18, 2012 - SyTech Inc., the leading provider of automated report generation and data analysis software, today announced XLReporter Version 10.0. This latest evolution provides two new components data entry management and reporting from text files. First, XLReporters data entry component turns Microsoft Excel into a design studio for the creation of data entry forms, database design and linkage of the forms to the databases, without any programming. XLReporter then validates the data and stores it in a secure, central database, making it available for reports from local or remote client stations. Second, XLReporters impressive list of interfaces has been expanded to include text files, enabling direct reporting from data loggers. XLReporters data entry component, Interactive Forms, is designed to set up the entire solution in the familiar environment of Excel, taking advantage of XLReporters ability to deploy it across the network for gathering and storing information to a central database. Once deployed, users access the forms according to their credentials. Information entered in the forms is saved to the database using web services which ensures the integrity of the information and the security of the database. Interactive Forms is ideal for any industry that enters data manually, such as user recordings or laboratory results, combining it with automatically collected data for reporting without bringing in IT specialists. Support for most databases, including Microsoft SQL Server and Access, ensures that Interactive Forms can be used in any industry, large or small. With Microsoft Excel as the design studio, there was no need to learn anything new to create intuitive user entry forms complete with calculations, formatting and validation. This reduced our engineering time substantially, says Sarah Elger (P.E) from Xylem. In addition, maintenance of the database did not involve specialists because no programming was required. The second new reporting component, the File Cabinet, addresses the obstacles users face when creating reports from text files. Text files, like those created by data loggers, are usually generated periodically and consequently a report may span hundreds of files. Also, because the file content is text, analytics can only be produced with specialized tools or programming. The File Cabinet technology enables the user to stitch together the data from disparate files into a single entity to produce reports that go beyond each text file. In addition, the File Cabinet automatically creates and maintains a list of tag names so tags can be simply selected by XLReporters tag browsers. It features filtering and sorting together with analytic calculations such as the average for each hour of a day. Producing reports that incorporate manually entered data with production data is a challenge for industry, explains Peter Kaprielian, CTO of SyTech. With this version of XLReporter, these challenges are met in one package. Analytic calculations are also provided for historians. XLReporter is widely used with leading historians and SCADA systems by GE Intelligent Platforms, Wonderware, Rockwell Software, Emerson Process Management, and Siemens together with industry standards such as OPC, OPC-HDA, ODBC and OLE-DB. An evaluation copy of the Team edition of XLReporter can be downloaded from www.sytech.com. About Xylem: Xylem span off from ITT Corporation on October 31, 2011 and began a new chapter as a leading global water technology company with operations in more than 150 countries; a passionate, talented, and experienced workforce; well-known industry-leading brands and water solution products, 2011 revenues of $3.8 billion and a shared commitment to making a difference in communities around the world. Xylem comprises four business units - Water Solutions, Flow Control, Analytics and Residential and Commercial Water. These four units are interconnected, anticipating and reflecting evolving needs and sharing their applications expertise to cover every stage of the water cycle. www.xyleminc.com About SyTech, Inc: SyTech has been providing report generation and analysis software since 1991. We are recognized as a leader in advancing the technology used to automate and distribute reports in Excel, PDF and Web formats. Our innovative approach delivers products that are quick to implement, reliable and cost effective. SyTech products are resold by automation software distributors and OEMs with implementations in 60 countries around the world. Our award-winning software XLReporter is endorsed by small municipal facilities as well as major international manufacturers and Fortune 500 companies. www.sytech.com SyTech Incorporated   ... [Full Story]

Finesse Solutions Selects MatrikonOPC for Secure, Reliable OPC Connectivity Solutions
Press Release from: MatrikonOPC, on April 17, 2012
Edmonton, Alberta, April 17, 2012 - MatrikonOPC announced today that Finesse Solutions, Inc., maker of easy-to-use solutions for managing complex bio-process applications in the life sciences industry, is standardizing its third-party data communications on MatrikonOPC technology, as a vendor partner in MatrikonOPCs Global Partner Network. Standardizing on MatrikonOPC will provide Finesse Solutions' customers with ready access to critical bio-processing data from third-party devices. Overcoming common data interconnectivity obstacles allows end-users to integrate their automation systems into a single operator workstation for all visualization dashboards. Using OPC, Finesse Solutions can rapidly and cost-effectively integrate both large and small numbers of Sartorius Biostat DCU controllers into customers DeltaV control network. This also allows users to develop more sophisticated control strategies using legacy equipment in a master-slave configuration with TruBio-SCADA "Many of our customers have legacy Sartorius DCU controllers, especially in their R&D and process development laboratories. These units are often run manually, and the data is difficult to aggregate and compare. The MatrikonOPC Server for Sartorius will enable Finesse Solutions to integrate data from all Sartorius DCU controllers and to store their process data in a single historian database, while easily sharing strategies between different geographical sites. In addition, users will be able to overlay TruBio DV functionality on their DCU controllers, and thereby harmonize their older equipment with their newer installed base," stated Basil Zimmo, VP of Software and Automation. The MatrikonOPC OEM Program enables software and hardware vendors to provide their customers with world class connectivity software and support, while keeping the vendors resources focused on their core areas of expertise. "Delivering exceptional value to our customers is one of the cornerstones of our strategy for long term growth. By partnering with vendors like Finesse Solutions, MatrikonOPC helps provide the data connectivity needed to best leverage Finesse Solutions offerings and the on-going live support needed to promote OPC data architecture security and reliability," said Drew Brydon, global OEM program manager at MatrikonOPC. Learn more about the MatrikonOPC Vendor Program here: http://www.matrikonopc.com/partners/oem.aspx About Finesse Solutions, Inc. California-based Finesse Solutions, Inc. has established a proven record in providing turn-key, scalable solutions for single-use upstream bio-processing. The Finesse product platform includes an extensive portfolio of novel disposable sensors, modular configure-to-order automation hardware, and intelligent software that can harmonize global bio-process information and technology transfer. Finesse also offers a complete set of services including startup, commissioning, and validation for rapid and reliable deployment of single-use equipment into cGMP manufacturing applications. For more information on all Finesse product offerings visit www.finesse.com. About MatrikonOPC MatrikonOPC provides equipment data connectivity software based on the OPC standard. The MatrikonOPC promise is to empower customers with reliable data access to all major automation vendors systems, provide practical OPC training and deliver superior client care. MatrikonOPC builds close relationships with its customers to best address their business and technical needs. With offices in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, MatrikonOPC provides local presence on a global scale. MatrikonOPC is a vendor neutral connectivity supplier. Visit MatrikonOPC at www.MatrikonOPC.com. This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on managements assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our performance in both the near- and long-term. For more information, contact: Wassim Daoud Regional Marketing Manager, MatrikonOPC +1 780-448-1010 extension 4632 wassim.daoud@matrikonopc.com ... [Full Story]

.NET 4 based OPC UA Client and Server Development
Press Release from: TerxaSoft GmbH, on April 16, 2012
Time to Adapt! Niederlenz, Switzerland, March 2012: TerxaSoft GmbH released a complete product family for .NET 4 based development of client and server applications for the OPC Unified Architecture (UA) technology. With this new product family OPC UA client and server applications can be developed fast and easily. Based on the deliverables of the OPC Foundation TexaSoft GmbH enhanced this base with a consistent API for client and server development. The know-how from many .NET based applications was taken into the design and implementation of this new product line. „With this product line we are worldwide the first company delivering a .NET 4 based product line for OPC UA client and server development“, explains Thomas Johannhson, founder and Executive Director of TerxaSoft GmbH. „If your application requires access to the OPC technology you have to decide which of the OPC Specifications you want to support. The decision depends on many factors like the used OPC specifications supported by third party products or the system architecture you want to use. TerxaSoft GmbH is specialized in software consulting and development services for technical and industrial applications based on OPC and the founder of TerxaSoft GmbH was involved in the design and development of many software products with OPC connectivity with more then 14 years extensive knowledge about OPC.“ Enhanced functionality like an Information Model Designer is planned for the third quarter of this year. This addition allows the design and C# code generation of a visual designed address space model. The generated code can be used by server and client applications to enhance implementation efficency and code quality. ... [Full Story]

MatrikonOPC Expands Modbus OPC Server Functionality With HC900 Support and Streamlined Workflow
Press Release from: MatrikonOPC, on April 12, 2012
Edmonton, Alberta, April 12th, 2012 - MatrikonOPC simplifies open data sharing with the HC900 line of Hybrid Controllers in the release of its latest OPC Server for Modbus. With expanded communication options and a streamlined interface, the MatrikonOPC Server for Modbus provides users with an optimized workflow making configuration and maintenance faster and more intuitive. With built-in role-based security down to the per- tag-level, the Modbus OPC Server actively protects the integrity of automation system data. Based on each users login, this OPC Server selectively grants or denies access to specific tags, providing only the right users with secure access to the right process data. Granular control over data access helps prevent accidental or intentional unauthorized OPC data access. As a part of the overall infrastructure, this OPC server adds another layer to a systems overall defense-in-depth strategy. "Secure, reliable access to data in control automation systems is crucial," said Darek Kominek, marketing manager at MatrikonOPC . "With an optimized user interface and an expanded range of natively supported Modbus variants, the MatrikonOPC server for OPC devices helps make your projects more successful.". Key features include: redundant device communications precise control over who can access what data via role-based security support for OPC Alarms and Events To learn more about the OPC Server for Modbus, please visit: http://www.matrikonopc.com/opc-drivers/opc-modbus/base-driver-details.aspx About MatrikonOPC MatrikonOPC provides equipment data connectivity software based on the OPC standard. The MatrikonOPC promise is to empower customers with reliable data access to all major automation vendors systems, provide practical OPC training and deliver superior client care. MatrikonOPC builds close relationships with its customers to best address their business and technical needs. With offices in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, MatrikonOPC provides local presence on a global scale. MatrikonOPC is a vendor neutral connectivity supplier. Visit MatrikonOPC at www.MatrikonOPC.com. This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on managements assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our performance in both the near- and long-term. For more information, contact: Wassim Daoud Regional Marketing Manager, MatrikonOPC +1 780-448-1010 extension 4632 wassim.daoud@matrikonopc.com ... [Full Story]

COPA-DATA presents zenon 7
Press Release from: COPA-DATA, on March 6, 2012
COPA-DATA introduces a comprehensive portfolio of software products for integrated, ergonomic automation solutions. The new zenon Product Family, consisting of four tailor-made products, covers the complete range of automation from sensor to ERP. For industry-specific projects in the pharmaceutical industry, users are now additionally offered a zenon Pharma Edition. ... [Full Story]

Canary Labs Release Adds Replication, Communications and Mobile Apps
Press Release from: Canary Labs, Inc., on February 16, 2012
Canary Labs Version 9.5 Delivers High-Speed, Cost Effective, Real-Time and Historical Data Outside the Control Environment for Greater Accessibility and Analysis ... [Full Story]

Canary Labs Increases Focus on Water/Wastewater Markets
Press Release from: Canary Labs, Inc., on March 29, 2012
Industry veteran joins Canary Labs as subject matter expert ... [Full Story]

Softing in collaboration with a renown industrial automation magazine has started publishing articles on OPC UA
Press Release from: Softing Industrial Automation GmbH, on March 29, 2012
Newburyport, March, 2012 - Softing has announced that it has started publishing a series of eight (8) articles on OPC UA in collaboration with a renown industrial automation magazine based on extracts from Softing's OPC book. Please follow the link to read the first article: "Status OPC UA" The latest edition of Softing's OPC Book provides an excellent overview of the fundamentals, implementation, and application of standardized data exchange via OPC. A key focus is on the new OPC generation OPC Unified Architecture that allows for platform-independent data and information exchange. From theory to practice. Softing's OPC UA Development Toolkits (.NET and C++) enable developers to build OPC UA clients and servers for moving data and information from the factory floor to the enterprise level. Softings OPC UA Client Development Toolkit is aimed at supervisory control and human-machine interface software application providers, while the OPC UA Server Development Toolkit is aimed at manufacturers of automation equipment, such as controllers, drives and sensors. Many companies and organizations have factored-in Softings extensive experience with embedding OPC technology into industrial components. With more than 1,600 companies relying on Softings OPC development kits to generate thousands of compliant OPC products, Softing holds the lions share of the world-market for OPC development tools. About Softing Industrial Automation Softing Industrial Automation is a world leading provider of industrial communication products and technologies for manufacturing and process automation. Our products are tailored to the requirements of system integrators, device vendors, machine and equipment manufacturers or end users and are known for its ease of use and functional advantages. For additional information please contact us International - Tel: +49 89 45656 340 or info.automation@softing.com US, Canada, Mexico - Tel: (978) 499-9650 or Ken.Hoover@softing.com or www.softing-ia.com ... [Full Story]

Kepware Technologies Announces New and Enhanced Drivers for KEPServerEX
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on February 21, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, February 21, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in advanced Communications for Automation, today announced the release of KEPServerEX 5.8, with a major upgrade that includes new drivers, and several new features aimed at existing customers on Kepware's support and maintenance program to improve their business operations, performance, and security. To expand existing connectivity, KEPServerEX now features a new Allen-Bradley ControlLogix Unsolicited Driver, which greatly expands connectivity for plant wide optimization. Also included in this release are advanced communications and infrastructure improvements to more fully integrate with Fisher ROC and ROC Plus Controllers providing customers with enhanced interoperability. Accompanying the KEPServerEX 5.8 release are updates for Kepware's LinkMaster 3.0, RedundancyMaster 2.0 and ClientAce 3.5. LinkMaster is now fully supported on Windows 7/Vista and Windows Server 2008/2003 and has incorporated the same Kepware licensing and service support model as KEPServerEx V5. RedundancyMaster also incorporates the same license and service support model. ClientAce 3.5 has been updated to include support for Visual Studio 2010 and contains additional sample code. "Kepware customers expect us to deliver robust products and services based on our continuing commitment to research and development and focus on quality," said Tony Paine, President and CEO of Kepware Technologies. "The release of KEPServerEX 5.8 reflects our ongoing efforts to enhance our products for our existing customers and allow them to solve their ever changing business challenges." KEPServerEX 5.8 also includes the addition of Modbus Channel Serialization , enhanced Device Level Communication Diagnostics to aid with performance tuning and assist with troubleshooting. For security and regulatory control, KEPServerEX now delivers optimized event logging, finer user management control and allows the user to control whether or not client applications can directly access device memory. ... [Full Story]

Kepware Technologies Wins 2012 Kinetic Process Innovation Award
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on February 17, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, February 17, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in advanced Communications for Automation, announced today that it has been awarded the 2012 Kinetic Innovation Award for Interoperability for its support of a building automation system at Cascade Meadow Wetlands and Environmental Science Center in Rochester, MN. The annual awards program recognizes excellence in information technology. This year the awards are sponsored by High Tech Views, an online publication that highlights organizations whose technology has made a significant contribution to supporting business growth and achievement for their customers. "Each year, the award entries demonstrate exciting new ways that vendors and their customers are leveraging technology for the public good," said Drew Barrows, deputy editor of High Tech Views. "Kepware Technologies is to be commended for its creativity in developing products that solve business challenges, but also for supporting the mission of an organization like Cascade Meadow that showcases successful sustainability activities and shares that success with their communities." While Cascade Meadow is a catalyst for educational activities that highlight and promote the efficient use of water and energy resources, it also designed a state of the art "green building" that includes renewable energy systems. Looking to integrate its energy consumption and production systems with the buildings mechanical systems, Cascade Meadow looked to Integrated Technology Engineering, a local consulting engineering firm and Kepware. Today critical data from these three separate systems can be monitored from one central dashboard to provide ongoing transparency into the energy efficiency of the Center information thats shared with visitors to the site and used for educational forums. "We are extremely pleased that that Kepware Technologies has been recognized for this award," said Tony Paine," Kepware President and CEO. "Cascade Meadow is an extraordinary example in its commitment to educate the community on the value of green energy and sustainability. We are glad to have been able to participate with Cascade Meadow and Integrated Technology Engineering to create an automated informational environment that supports its sustainability objectives." ... [Full Story]

Kepware Technologies Wins "Engineers' Choice Award" for KEPServerEX 5.7
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on February 7, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, February 7, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in Communications for Automation, announced today that its KEPServerEX 5.7 product has won the Software Application category of Control Engineering Magazine's 25th Annual "Engineers' Choice Awards." Previous versions of KEPServerEX won in two prior years. The awards highlight the best new control, instrumentation, and automation products as chosen by Control Engineering's more than 86,000 print and online subscribers. Winners are selected based on technological advancement, service to the industry, and market impact. This years entries represented more than 100 product nominations from 65 companies. "Innovative solutions such as KEPServerEX 5.7 make manufacturing and other control engineering applications more efficient through smart applications of technologies. Continuous improvements among leading technology providers ensure that manufacturers, machine builders and automation system integrators can achieve the levels of ability, efficiency and effectiveness necessary to compete and win in today's global economy," said Mark T. Hoske, Control Engineering Content Manager. KEPServerEX 5.7 is a flexible and scalable solution for connecting, managing, monitoring, and controlling diverse automation devices and software applications. It manages communications through a robust platform that supports an array of open standards, propriety communication protocols, APIs, and various automation systems' interfaces, improving operations and decision-making for all levels of an organization. "The KEPServerEX 5.7 platform gives us the ability to continually create new connectivity and advanced plug-in options, while ensuring the high level of quality and flexibility our customers expect from us," said Tony Paine, Kepware President and CEO. We constantly focus on the usability of our products to guarantee an exceptional user experience. Were honored that readers of Control Engineering have recognized Kepware for these achievements for three consecutive years and continue to endorse KEPServerEX as one of the best technologies in our class." Award winners will be recognized at a special dinner scheduled for March 26 in Chicago. ... [Full Story]

Kepware Honored as a "First Team" Supplier in AutomationWorld's Leadership in Automation Program 2011
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on January 10, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, January 10, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in Communications for Automation, announced today that it has been honored by the readers of AutomationWorld magazine as a 2011 "First Team" supplier in the magazine's Leadership in Automation 2011 program. Kepware was chosen among several entrants as the top supplier in the Information Management category. Votes for the honor were determined by a combination of on-line participation in the magazine's Leadership in Automation (LIA) profile on its website as well as a year-long series of open-ended and unaided recall surveys conducted by the magazine that included three choices in each category. "This honor truly reflects Kepware's leadership and brand awareness in the marketplace as well as underscores the focus Kepware puts on listening to its customers. Readers, through the results of the polling, clearly recognize the company's investment in research and development to bring the best-of-the-best technology to the market," said Jim Chrzan, publisher of AutomationWorld. "We are extremely proud that AutomationWorld readers have recognized Kepware as a 'First Team' supplier," said Tony Paine, Kepware President and CEO. "This honor reflects our ongoing mission to develop innovative automation solutions to solve the complex business challenges facing our customers. We're extremely pleased that the market has acknowledged this commitment and has provided us with this prestigious testimonial." The winning submission - KEPServerEX, Kepware's flagship product, connects disparate devices and applications to plant control and enterprise systems. It suppports a wide variety of customers in industries such as oil and gas, water and wastewater treatment systems, building automation, manufacturing, energy generation, and those businesses and organizations seeking successful green energy initiatives. ... [Full Story]

Kepware Technologies Announces New and Enhanced Drivers for KEPServerEX
Press Release from: Kepware Technologies, on February 21, 2012
RELEASE: Portland, ME, February 21, 2012 - Kepware Technologies, the leader in advanced Communications for Automation, today announced the release of KEPServerEX 5.8, with a major upgrade that includes new drivers, and several new features aimed at existing customers on Kepware's support and maintenance program to improve their business operations, performance, and security. To expand existing connectivity, KEPServerEX now features a new Allen-Bradley ControlLogix Unsolicited Driver, which greatly expands connectivity for plant wide optimization. Also included in this release are advanced communications and infrastructure improvements to more fully integrate with Fisher ROC and ROC Plus Controllers providing customers with enhanced interoperability. Accompanying the KEPServerEX 5.8 release are updates for Kepware's LinkMaster 3.0, RedundancyMaster 2.0 and ClientAce 3.5. LinkMaster is now fully supported on Windows 7/Vista and Windows Server 2008/2003 and has incorporated the same Kepware licensing and service support model as KEPServerEx V5. RedundancyMaster also incorporates the same license and service support model. ClientAce 3.5 has been updated to include support for Visual Studio 2010 and contains additional sample code. "Kepware customers expect us to deliver robust products and services based on our continuing commitment to research and development and focus on quality," said Tony Paine, President and CEO of Kepware Technologies. "The release of KEPServerEX 5.8 reflects our ongoing efforts to enhance our products for our existing customers and allow them to solve their ever changing business challenges." KEPServerEX 5.8 also includes the addition of Modbus Channel Serialization , enhanced Device Level Communication Diagnostics to aid with performance tuning and assist with troubleshooting. For security and regulatory control, KEPServerEX now delivers optimized event logging, finer user management control and allows the user to control whether or not client applications can directly access device memory. ... [Full Story]

Softing Launches OPC UA .NET Development Toolkits Based on the Sample Code of the OPC Foundation
Press Release from: Softing Industrial Automation GmbH, on February 22, 2012
Haar, Germany, February 20, 2012 - Softing has taken the OPC Foundations reference implementation and raised it to the level of a standard Softing OPC Development Toolkit. The Softing OPC UA .NET Development Toolkit, based on the OPC Foundation sample code, offers increased usability through an optimized application programming interface (API), improved documentation and additional sample projects. The Softing OPC UA .NET Development Toolkits V1.00 enable developers to build OPC UA clients and servers for moving data and information from the factory floor to the enterprise level in their preferred .NET development environment. Softings OPC UA .NET Client Development Toolkit is aimed at supervisory control and human-machine interface software application providers, while the OPC UA .NET Server Development Toolkit is aimed at manufacturers of automation equipment, such as controllers, drives and sensors. "With its rapid deployment tools, Softings OPC UA .NET Development Toolkit will accelerate adoption of OPC UA by simplifying product development, says Thomas Burke, president and executive director of OPC Foundation. The Softing product(s) provide quality rapid deployment of OPC UA products seamlessly for the Microsoft platform(s) as well as the embedded market." The new OPC UA .NET Client Development Toolkit V1.00 will replace the .NET API of Softings existing OPC UA Client Development Toolkit Version 5.11. For more than 14 years Softing has been a major supplier of OPC Development Toolkits to developers of OPC clients and servers around the world. Currently, the Softing OPC portfolio comprises 20 versions of OPC Development Toolkits for classic OPC or Unified Architecture covering e.g. Data Access (DA), Alarms & Events (AE) and XML-DA for Windows, Windows CE, Linux or VxWorks. Softings OPC UA .NET Development Toolkits V1.00 are going to be available from February 20, 2012. Fully functional demos can be downloaded via www.softing-ia.com at this time also. About Softing Industrial Automation Softing Industrial Automation is a world leading provider of industrial communication products and technologies for manufacturing and process automation. Our products are tailored to the requirements of system integrators, device vendors, machine and equipment manufacturers or end users and are known for its ease of use and functional advantages. For additional information please contact us International - Tel: +49 89 45656 340 or info.automation@softing.com US, Canada, Mexico - Tel: (978) 499-9650 or Ken.Hoover@softing.com or www.softing-ia.com ... [Full Story]

MatrikonOPC Wins First Place In 2012 Control magazine Readers Choice Awards
Press Release from: MatrikonOPC, on February 16, 2012
Edmonton, Alberta, February 16th, 2012 - MatrikonOPC announced today that it has won first place in the OPC Connectivity Software category of Control magazines annual Readers Choice Awards competition. This is the third consecutive year that MatrikonOPC has won the top honor in the category. "This recognition sends a clear message that we are delivering on our commitments to our customers," said Jeff Gould, general manager, MatrikonOPC. "Our mission is to provide customers with the most secure and reliable OPC software and data connectivity experience available, including the training and support necessary to meet their needs." Thomas Burke, president and executive director of the OPC Foundation, congratulated MatrikonOPC on its achievement saying, "the OPC Foundation is proud to see the OPC category included in the Control magazines Readers Choice Awards. It clearly demonstrates the adoption of OPC as the industry standard for system interconnectivity and communications. As a strong, active supporter of OPC, MatrikonOPC has played a key role in assisting in the evolution and adoption of OPC technology, and will no doubt continue to demonstrate leadership in the future as OPC Unified Architecture continues to gain global acceptance." Control magazines Readers Choice Awards are based on un-aided reader surveys that do not provide pre-selected vendor names for categories. Respondents name the top vendors from around the world who they believe are the best providers for each category. To learn more about MatrikonOPCs awards, please visit: http://www.matrikonopc.com/main/opc-awards.aspx About MatrikonOPC MatrikonOPC provides equipment data connectivity software based on the OPC standard. The MatrikonOPC promise is to empower customers with reliable data access to all major automation vendors systems, provide practical OPC training and deliver superior client care. MatrikonOPC builds close relationships with its customers to best address their business and technical needs. With offices in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, MatrikonOPC provides local presence on a global scale. MatrikonOPC is a vendor neutral connectivity supplier. Visit MatrikonOPC at www.MatrikonOPC.com. This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of fact, that address activities, events or developments that we or our management intend, expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on managements assumptions and assessments in light of past experience and trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other relevant factors. They are not guarantees of future performance, and actual results, developments and business decisions may differ from those envisaged by our forward-looking statements. Our forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties, which can affect our performance in both the near- and long-term. For more information, contact: Wassim Daoud Regional Marketing Manager, MatrikonOPC +1 780-448-1010 extension 4632 wassim.daoud@matrikonopc.com ... [Full Story]