OPC Server

The Bridge of Industrial Integration: What is an OPC Server?

In the world of industrial automation, there are PLCs, sensors, and software (SCADA, ERP, MES) from many different brands. Every device has its own unique "language" (protocol). An OPC Server (Open Platform Communications Server) is a critical software layer that acts as a standardized translator between these devices speaking different languages and high-level software applications.

1. How Does an OPC Server Work?

An OPC Server communicates with field hardware (Siemens, Schneider, Rockwell, Omron, etc.) using their own proprietary protocols (such as Profinet, Modbus, FINS). It collects this data and converts it into OPC standards (Classic or UA), creating a common pool of information that other software can understand.

The process works as follows:

1. Data Collection: The OPC Server reads data from the PLC.

2. Conversion: It converts the raw data into a standard OPC format.

3. Distribution: An OPC Client (SCADA or an analysis software) easily pulls this data from a single source.

2. OPC Classic vs. OPC UA

OPC technology has evolved over the years. Today, two main types are common:

• OPC Classic (DA, HDA, A&E): Based on Microsoft's COM/DCOM technology. It only runs on Windows operating systems, and network configuration (firewall settings, etc.) is quite difficult.

• OPC UA (Unified Architecture): The standard of modern industry. It is platform-independent (Linux, Windows, Embedded systems), offers built-in security (encryption and certificates), and provides secure data transfer over the internet.

3. Why Should You Use an OPC Server?

• Interoperability: It allows you to build a brand-independent structure. When you add a new brand of device, you don't need to change all your software.

• Single Point of Access: Instead of connecting to dozens of different PLCs separately, you access all data through a single OPC Server.

• Data Scalability: You can manage thousands of data points (tags) simultaneously and distribute them to different clients.

4. Relationship Between OPC Server and IIoT Gateways

In traditional setups, OPC Servers are large software packages running on heavy and expensive computers. However, modern IIoT Gateway devices like Hubbox make this structure more compact.

OPC Integration with Hubbox:

• Hubbox collects data from field devices and can act as an OPC UA Server.

• If you have a central SCADA system or cloud-based monitoring software, you can access this data securely via the OPC UA protocol through Hubbox.

• It eliminates computer costs and allows you to generate OPC data directly from within the electrical panel.

5. Summary: When Do You Need It?

If your factory has multiple brands of PLCs and you want to consolidate this data into a central SCADA or record it into a database (such as SQL), an OPC Server installation is inevitable.