New programmable automation control system provides entry for Enterprise Control System

Invensys Operations Management introduced its new Foxboro® Programmable Automation Controller (PAC) System at OpsManage 2010 in Orlando (FL US). A powerful, versatile programmable automation controller and I/O subsystem, integrated with Wonderware® software, the new Foxboro PAC System offers robust control and information capabilities for installations with fewer than 3,000 input/output (I/O) points, while providing a foundation for a larger and even more capable Enterprise Control System (ECS).

“The Foxboro PAC System was created specifically for hybrid market clients who want a powerful and reliable control system at an affordable price,” said Rick Morse, vice president, control and safety, Invensys Operations Management. “Although these smaller systems typically have fewer than 3,000 I/O points, our customers are more and more sophisticated in terms of their integrated automation and information needs. Therefore, we have designed a PAC system that is faster, smaller, easier to apply and cost competitive. The Foxboro PAC System user should feel comfortable knowing that Invensys Operations Management systems control some of the world’s largest and most complex plants, and we have incorporated that industry knowledge and innovation into the new PAC system.”

The Foxboro PAC System is ideal for delivering control, alarm management, historian, web reporting and batch functionality for applications in the food and beverage; glass; metals, minerals and mining; life sciences, plastics; water and wastewater; and other industries. The controller marries high-density I/O modules with cost-effective redundancy options, energy efficiency, continuous analog, logic and sequential control and secure data recording at point of measurement. Additionally, all controllers, I/O modules and power supplies can be swapped without interrupting or shutting down the process operations, which is essential in regulated industries.

“Because it is deeply integrated into the entire portfolio of Wonderware software applications using open, ArchestrA® technology, the Foxboro PAC System is an easy-to-use, entry-level offering for customers to rapidly build upon as their operational excellence needs evolve. The Foxboro PAC System provides unparalleled flexibility to integrate with other Invensys and third-party systems, such as PLCs, safety instrumented systems, SCADA and business systems,” said Terry Minns, director of PAC products, Invensys Operations Management. “In short, it provides advanced integrated control, data acquisition and storage functionality at PLC-level pricing.”

The Wonderware PAC Software includes a single, common integrated development environment, a familiar tool to Foxboro and Wonderware users alike. The Wonderware PAC Software package also includes Wonderware InTouch 10.1, the industry-leading HMI software.