Simulator aids control-system debug
A
Rockwell Automation product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Jun 25, 2003
RSTestStand is a cost-saving software package that allows control system engineers to thoroughly test their control system designs and correct any errors before they start up the system.
Rockwell Software RSTestStand is a cost-saving software package that allows control system engineers to thoroughly test their control system designs and correct any errors before they start up the system.
Using the software, system developers can create of a wide range of "virtual" control scenarios and realistically test design configurations and programs on their desktops.
Versatile enough to simulate both process and discrete operations, the software greatly reduces delays associated with startup and installation by verifying appropriate control system design offline.
RSTestStand supports Allen-Bradley PLCs, drives and control equipment as well as a range of other third-party OPC 2.0-compliant devices.
It includes application libraries for discrete and continuous loops that can be customised, enabling engineers to standardise and reuse elements from previous applications.
RSTestStand's sophisticated user interface allows engineers to error check the system and determine its response to out-of-range conditions.
The program's visualisation capabilities are also useful in helping engineers understand the sometimes unpredictable relationships between control elements.
In addition, RSTestStand features a virtual operator console for interacting with a control system.
This allows designers to gain a deeper insight into the ergonomics of an operator station, and experience for themselves how an operator would monitor and control the application.
As well as providing desktop control system testing, RSTestStand can be used to train operators and maintenance technicians in a virtual environment.
This approach avoids tying up expensive equipment on the plant floor or training suite and provides a cost-effective and safe means of building knowledge of a new system before installation.
"In an era when a rapid return on investment and reduced downtime are critical, the industry needs a reliable tool for pre-testing control systems before beginning installation and startup", says John Gooday, Design Automation Software Manager at Rockwell Automation.
"Because RSTestStand avoids the need to physically wire devices to run control scenarios, manufacturers and OEMs can speed deployment while cutting installation costs".
RSTestStand supports Windows NT and 2000 platforms and integrates easily with Rockwell Software tools such as RSLogix and RSNetWorx.
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