How to Access Remote PLC/HMI? — detailed explanation

Serial to Ethernet Connector (SEC) is a software utility that can be incorporated into industrial HMIs to provide remote access over Ethernet connections. The solution eliminates distance limitations and provides engineers with a powerful tool for monitoring and controlling systems and equipment.

Let’s take at the functionality and benefits available with SEC.

Serial to Ethernet Connector for Remote PLC/HMI Access

PLCs are basic elements of industrial automation systems. A primary function of PLCs is to act as a stand-alone computer to control industrial equipment or processes. PLCs are often connected to a network as an integral part of a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. The PLC is controlled through a combination of the infrastructure’s HMI and SCADA software.

An HMI is a software program that facilitates human interaction with PLCs. Human operators use an HMI to perform tasks such as monitoring, configuring, and controlling a PLC. An HMI can also provide alerts regarding system performance based on data generated by the PLC.

Some HMIs are simply a panel of lights and buttons that need to be operated manually when interacting with a PLC. More complex PLCs provide network connectivity and are typically attached to a computer running monitoring and programming capabilities. The majority of advanced PLCs have built-in communication ports and transfer data using the RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, or Ethernet protocols.

Configuring a PLC is done using its serial and USB port. The PLC is connected to a network hub via an Ethernet port. Operators access the PLC through the controlling servers and other network-connected equipment. Remote access to a PLC requires virtualized connections established through a software solution like Serial to Ethernet Connector.

That’s all you need to establish remote access and control over a network-connected PLC with SEC.

Benefits of Using SEC for Remote PLC Access

Establishing remote PLC access with SEC provides industrial facilitates with the following benefits.

• Improved efficiency and productivity - Remote and real-time access to PLCs maximizes productivity by minimizing downtime. Issues can be promptly addressed without requiring expensive and time-consuming travel to service the equipment.
  
  
• Enhanced security - SEC promotes strong security with encryption to protect data transmission between the HMI and PLC. Customizable access permissions enable administrators to control which users can use the PLC and the degree of functionality and activities they can perform.
  
  
• Streamlined maintenance - Remote maintenance tasks can be scheduled to optimize system performance with minimal disruption to industrial operations. The ability to immediately access a PLC is crucial for performing proactive maintenance and addressing issues before they become system-impacting problems.
  
  
• Cost savings - Remote access minimizes downtime for more efficient and profitable operations. Substantial savings are possible by eliminating travel expenses through the use of remote PLC access.