What Is An OPC Client

July 12, 2023

What Is An OPC Client


An OPC client is a software application that utilizes the OPC (OLE for Process Control) protocol to communicate with OPC servers. The OPC protocol is widely used in industrial automation and allows for seamless data exchange between different devices and systems.


For example, an OPC SCADA client software can connect to an OPC server, such as Matrikon or Kepware, to access real-time data from various sources like sensors, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and other industrial equipment. This enables users to monitor and control processes in a centralized manner.

A man is pressing a button on a virtual screen.

The OPC client-server architecture follows a standardized approach defined by the OPC Foundation. It ensures interoperability and compatibility between different vendors' products that support the OPC protocol.


It's important to note that an OPC client is not related to "OPC cement" or any other non-technical usage of the term "OPC." In the context of industrial automation, an OPC client plays a crucial role in facilitating efficient communication and data exchange within an industrial network.



OPC Client


OPC Clients are valuable software modules that empower applications to efficiently gather data from an OPC Server or perform supervisory control with the help of an OPC Server. The client/server architecture forms the foundation of OPC.


Utilize OPC Client applications for efficient data acquisition purposes. In this scenario, subscribing to data from an OPC Server is a simple process. You can choose to display the data, archive it, or even do both simultaneously. Software applications have the capability to easily archive data from various sources such as PLCs, DCS systems, process analyzers, and more.

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OPC Client applications excel at efficiently handling supervisory control, among a myriad of other essential functions. Their proficiency in managing supervisory control is unparalleled, making them an indispensable tool for industrial automation and process control. These applications effortlessly handle the complexities involved in overseeing and monitoring various processes, ensuring optimal efficiency and productivity. 


Additionally, OPC Client applications seamlessly integrate with different systems and devices, allowing for seamless data exchange and effortless communication across the entire network. OPC Clients, without a doubt, are extensively utilized in the programming of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) applications. Their popularity stems from their unparalleled ability to connect with various industrial automation devices and systems. By leveraging the power of OPC technology, these clients empower programmers to effortlessly communicate and exchange data between different platforms, resulting in highly efficient and seamlessly integrated HMI applications that significantly enhance productivity and improve operational efficiency. 


The Human-Machine Interface (HMI) possesses a remarkable capability to effortlessly and efficiently transmit supervisory control setpoints to the OPC Server. This process is seamless as the OPC Server seamlessly transfers these setpoints to the underlying control system, which can be either a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) or a Distributed Control System (DCS). This integration ensures a smooth and uninterrupted flow of control instructions, enhancing operational efficiency and accuracy.

A group of people standing next to each other in front of a network of icons.

OPC Clients and Servers are a powerful combination for supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) purposes. When used together, they can efficiently handle the task at hand, ensuring smooth operations and accurate data monitoring.


OPC Clients possess the remarkable capability to effortlessly and seamlessly manage an unlimited number of OPC Server connections. With their advanced functionalities and user-friendly interfaces, these clients empower users to effortlessly streamline their operations by easily connecting to multiple OPC Servers simultaneously. This unparalleled feature not only saves valuable time but also allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in managing diverse data sources. The power to effortlessly handle numerous OPC Server connections sets OPC Clients apart as the ultimate solution for businesses seeking optimal performance and control over their industrial automation systems. OPC Clients possess the remarkable and unquestionable ability to effortlessly handle multiple OPC specifications simultaneously. This impressive capability sets them apart from other software solutions as they demonstrate their superiority in managing complex data exchange and communication between various systems, ensuring seamless interoperability. OPC Clients truly excel in effectively streamlining operations and enabling efficient data management across diverse industrial environments. The OPC Client truly excels in its ability to seamlessly handle and manage multiple functionalities within a single, highly efficient software application. 


It empowers users with the capability to effortlessly navigate through various tasks and functions, all while maintaining a streamlined workflow. With its unmatched versatility, the OPC Client proves itself to be an invaluable asset in optimizing productivity and maximizing efficiency within any organization. Not only does it support OPC DA, OPC HDA, and OPC AE simultaneously, but it also seamlessly integrates with OPC UA. This robust compatibility allows for a comprehensive data communication solution that covers a wide range of industrial protocols. With its ability to handle multiple OPC standards at once, it offers unparalleled flexibility and efficiency in data exchange within various industrial systems.


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