Browser-based terminals gain popularity

Web browser based operator interface terminals are forecast to grow at compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.5% to 2006, according to a new research report.

Web browser based operator interface terminals are forecast to grow at compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.5% to 2006, according to Venture Development Corp's latest research report, "The North American markets for industrial electronic monitors and operator interface terminals".

Web browser terminals offer many advantages over the other types of operator interfaces studied - primarily by using the user's existing network.

They can also act as a pager, PDA (personal digital assistant), computer, or e-mail client based on triggered times or events.

Some other benefits cited by end users include: reduced operation costs by allowing users to build a single application instead of a networked solution comprised of multiple applications; accelerated application ROI by lowering maintenance and support costs; and real-time access to data, ultimately speeding up cycle times, improving product quality and reducing costs of application development and maintenance.

One perceived drawback to the web browser operator interface terminal, with which many users are understandably concerned, is the lack of security.

There are, however, many precautions that can be taken to address this problem.

This may be one reason that end users are increasingly outsourcing implementation of operator interface terminals to OEMs and systems integrators.

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