Data recorders gain batch functionality

An ABB Automation Tech (Instrumentation + Automation) product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team May 10, 2007

ABB's batch add-on for its data recorders is ideal for heat treatment and food and beverage industries where batches of product may be subjected to multiple production processes.

Obtaining complete production records for individual batches has been made simple with the addition of batch recording functionality to ABB's SM series videographic data recorders.

Capable of being field upgraded to any installed ABB SM1000, 2000 or 3000 videographic recorder, the batch add-on is ideal for heat treatment and food and beverage industries where batches of product may be subjected to multiple production processes.

As well as a host of standard batch features, including local and remote control, the new batch functions also include a lifecycle analysis function which can be used to rapidly review records of every separate production process applied to a batch.

With the lifecycle analysis function, users can now obtain records for every stage in the production process using ABB's DataManager data analysis software.

The recorder's batch recording function enables the operator to enter essential batch information that is recorded alongside the process data.

The recorded data is then archived for subsequent retrieval, with each batch being tagged with its identification data.

This data is then used by the DataManager software to provide operators with a complete production history for each batch.

The integrity of recorded data is preserved by one of the widest range of security, recording and display features available in a single unit.

Standard security features include the ability to configure and allocate multiple users with individual password and access rights.

There is also the option of an internal security switch protected by a tamper-proof seal preventing unauthorised personnel from altering the recorder's configuration.

Data integrity is further protected by an internal audit trail, which logs any configuration changes made and records who made the changes and when, as well as the details of all datafiles created and many other events key to process data security, such as calibration changes.

Added measures to protect the security of archived data are also included in the DataManager software, which automatically checks the integrity of the binary encoded datafiles when batches are reviewed to ensure the data collected is valid.

Using the software, recorded data is automatically collated into a ready-to-use database, with powerful search functionality allowing operators to quickly locate the batch records they wish to review.

A further level of data integrity is assured by the inclusion of a clock synchronisation function, which enables installed SM recorders to be synchronised against each other.

By ensuring that all recorded data is stamped with the same times and dates regardless of its origin, this function makes it easier to identify potential causes when problems occur, enabling operators to accurately trace other events in the process that occurred at or around the same time.

All SM series data recorders feature an 8Mbyte onboard solid state Flash memory capable of storing 2.8 million samples of data, which can be archived to solid state Compact Flash memory cards up to 2Gbyte in size and easily transferred to a PC.

Protection against mechanical failure is guaranteed by the absence of any moving parts, whilst the use of Flash memory technology means the recorders do not rely on batteries to preserve stored data during a power failure.

The recorders feature up to 36 recording channels, IP66 and NEMA 4X front face protection for use in harsh locations.

A user-friendly display and interface means that setting up and using SM series data recorders can quickly be mastered.

Front-mounted pushbuttons simplify data selection, which is presented in a familiar Windows environment.

Set-up and commissioning is also straightforward, with menus presenting options for setting and fine-tuning operating parameters.

Added support is provided by an extensive context sensitive online help feature.

All ABB's SM series videographic data recorders are backed up by a comprehensive local service and support network, offering everything from commissioning through to upgrades throughout the life of the product.