PLC Next Connection to third Party HMI

terrywithers

Does the PLC Next Platform support a protocol that will enable a third party HMI such as Weintek/Maple Systems? I have an application developed in Codesys, and would like to look at converting the project to PLC Next, but we use the Maple Systems CMT HMI's extensively, along with the remote VPN technology and I need a way to support name based tag access to the PLC. I could use the OPC-UA function, but I fear that it may not be fast enough to support the HMI, and I have no interest in converting everything to Modbus TCP.

Martin - PLCnext Technology Team

Out of interest, how fast do the tags need to be updated? You should be able to get a sample rate of 100ms (i.e. 10 times per second) using OPC UA.
(see: https://www.plcnext.help/te/Service_Components/OPC_UA_Server/PLCnext_Control_OPC_UA.htm)
If you cannot use one of the industry-standard protocols that comes with the PLC, then you will need to discuss the possibilities with your HMI manufacturer, but I think that OPC UA will be your best option.