Latest ThinManager software gives operators customizable, mobile access to production information without PCs
Industrial companies around the world can now more easily realize the productivity and cost-saving benefits of using thin clients in place of industrial PCs. The new ThinManager version 11.0 software from Rockwell Automation includes support for 11 local languages in 12 countries, making it easier for global organisations to configure, deploy and manage thin client devices in their operations using their native language and character sets.
The software delivers production information from any FactoryTalk application to operators wherever they are in a facility. Operators can customise the way information is delivered to any device (fixed or mobile), user or location.
“The ThinManager software is the only solution of its kind for helping industrial companies adopt a centralised computing strategy that helps cut costs and improve uptime,” said Tom Jordan, marketing manager, Rockwell Automation. “All production data is stored in central servers rather than in fixed terminals or mobile devices. When an issue occurs, operators can simply replace the terminal rather than rebooting a PC, which significantly reduces troubleshooting time and helps prevent loss of data.”
The new local-language support in the software allows workers to input data, such as passwords, using their native language and character sets. Version 11.0 adds support for non-English keyboards and the ability to configure the software’s on-screen keyboard in non-English languages. More localised support features will be added in future software releases.
In addition, with version 11.0, operators have more ways to customise and view information, which helps improve their productivity. For example, at fixed terminals, operators can now build an entire control room view using a single thin client with the ThinManager software’s expanded MultiMonitor feature. The feature supports up to seven monitors on a single terminal. This creates an easy way to expand control room visualisation without purchasing, configuring and managing multiple thin client devices. It also includes support for the new Allen-Bradley VersaView 5200 thin clients, which provide up to seven video outputs with 4K resolution.
Operators can also now view multiple content sources on one mobile device screen. This can help them keep an eye on multiple aspects of production and maximise productivity while on the move. For instance, a supervisor could see alarm, camera and productivity applications all on one screen. And as they walk the plant floor, the ThinManager software’s Relevance feature can refresh the content based on their location.
In addition, Rockwell Automation customers can access all the information they need without worrying about session limits or extra costs. The new FactoryTalk Activation licensing option allows an unlimited number of FactoryTalk View SE software sessions to be delivered to a terminal with one client license. Traditional master licensing will remain as an option.
