What is an OPC Server? Brief Introduction

July 8, 2021

What is an OPC Server? Brief Introduction


OPC is a standard programming interface that allows Windows software to interact with industrial hardware. OPC server is Implemented in Server/ client pair.

OPC Server is software that converts the hardware communication protocol used by PLC into the OPC protocol (Device Connectors). OPC client software is any software that needs to interact with hardware, such as HMI . An OPC client uses an OPC server to receive data or send commands from the device.

The value of OPC is that it is an open standard, which means lower costs for manufacturers and more choices for consumers. Device manufacturers need to provide only one OPC server for their devices to communicate with any OPC client. Software vendors easily integrate OPC client capabilities into their products and sync instantly with thousands of devices.


Users can choose which OPC client software they need, and be assured that their OPC-powered devices, and vice versa, will communicate smoothly. A typical OPC connection scenario is the same client-to-server connection on a PC as described above, but there are more possibilities. For example, you might need:


 

  • Connect the OPC client to multiple OPC servers. This is called the OPC Assembly.
  • Connect the OPC server to the OPC server on a network. This can be done using an OPC tunnel.
  • Connect the OPC server to another OPC server for data sharing. This is known as the OPC Bridge.

 

You might also like

Process Alarms

April 15, 2025
What are alarms used for? It plays a vital role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and operational excellence in many industries. These alarms are designed to alert personnel about critical issues within industrial processes, allowing for quick responses to prevent downtime or accidents. In this article, we will explore various aspects of alarm management systems and how they are crucial for process control and safety.

What are alarms in SCADA system

April 8, 2025
What are alarms used for? Alarms are a vital part of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, helping operators to monitor, manage, and respond to different operational conditions. They are designed to alert operators when certain conditions fall outside normal parameters, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of industrial processes. In this article, we will explore what are alarms in SCADA system , their types, their management, and the standards that govern their implementation.

What is a state of alarm?

April 4, 2025
When you hear the term "state of alarm," you might imagine a loud sound warning of an emergency, or perhaps an urgent message signaling a need for immediate attention. But in certain fields, particularly in the realm of control systems like SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), What are alarms used for? a state of alarm holds a much more specific meaning. This condition is crucial in alarm management and safety systems. A state of alarm typically refers to a scenario where an anomaly or abnormal condition has been detected in a system that requires immediate corrective action.  The concept of alarm management plays a pivotal role in maintaining operational safety and efficiency. In this context, understanding the different aspects of a state of alarm can help to optimize response times and mitigate risks. Let's dive deeper into the specifics of this state and its role in industrial control systems.
More Posts

Free Connectivity Assessment

Submit the form below to see if you qualify for a FREE connectivity assessment!