Control System Obsolescence and Why You Should Care.

 

Running equipment until failure or not being prepared for the inevitable  – may not be positive for your business. Do you have machinery running on Windows 95/98/NT/2K or XP or an even earlier controls system (PLC / HMI) – plenty of DOS systems are still working - but, with a very limited lifetime. 

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​Reliability:

Control systems are responsible for critical functions, controlling processes, and manufacturing. Obsolete systems are more vulnerable to failure, loss of production caused by the operator not having back up software or machinery code – the operating system no longer supported

 

Competitive Advantage:

Staying up to date with the latest control system technology can provide a competitive edge.  Modern systems are more efficient, flexible and capable of expansion

 

 Environmental Impact:

Obsolete control systems are less energy efficient.  Upgrading to more modern, sustainable technologies can reduce energy use.

 

Life Cycle Planning:

Lifecycle planning is crucial for any business reliant on machinery . Failure to plan for obsolescence leads to costly stoppages and potentially catastrophic unexpected system failures.

 

When Should l Upgrade?

 

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• The current system no longer functions as designed.

 

• Neglected or lost wiring diagrams and software backup.

 

• When the software is no longer supported by current Windows operating systems.

 

• When hardware and/or spare parts are no longer available off the shelf, obsolete & serviceable items are becoming increasingly difficult (impossible) to find.

 

• PLC battery failure leading to loss of machine program – and unscheduled equipment failure - do you have the program “backed up” – When was the PLC Battery last replaced?

 

• An upgrade would significantly reduce energy consumption

 

• An upgrade would significantly increase system functionality (Future Proof)

 

• An upgrade would capture and build into the design any requirement for machinery safety

 

A System Upgrade can be far more effective and economical than complete equipment / machine / process replacement

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