 iTools 7 The
Configuration Software |
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| The
new version features a number of major enhancements, including the ability
to create custom user screens (MINI-SCADA screens),
configuration "Wizards" to simplify
controller configuration, and a graphical wiring
editor to configure Eurotherm's advanced Model 3500
process controllers.
iTools has evolved continuously since its introduction in 1999. This versatile suite of software tools allows configuration and monitoring of all Eurotherm Series 2000 and Series 3000 controllers, the 2500 & MINI8 DIN Rail mounting process controller, EPower Power Controlers, and also provides runtime monitoring of 6000 Series data acquisition and management units. It is capable of editing, storing and 'cloning' complete controller configurations, as well as setting up data logging, process monitoring, Ethernet and modem connections, and generating order codes. iTools employs an OPC® (OLE for Process Control) server which uses MODBUS® to communicate with the controllers. The server connects to the controllers via serial communications, Ethernet or a telephone modem, and may also be used by third party 'client' software such as Wonderware® and LabVIEW®. Additionally, a DDE link allows parameter values to be displayed 'Live' in an Excel spreadsheet or similar applications, and historical logged data can also be imported into Excel. Key iTools Software Tools iTools features
a number of powerful tools, including:
 View
Builder allows users to create PC-based
user screens or mini-SCADA
screens for simple process monitoring, commissioning and diagnostics.
 The
Configurator
will edit, store and 'clone' complete controller configurations. Clone
files can be opened as virtual instruments
simulating their actual behaviour and allowing complete configurations
to be developed off-line, then downloaded to the controller at a later
time.
The Graphical
Wiring Editor allows configuration of the advanced 3508, 3504,
EPower & MINI8
process controllers. The
GRAHICAL
WIRING EDITOR offers the user a simple DRAG-&-DROP graphical
interface to develop advanced control applications. Utilising pre-configured
function blocks, users are able to develop the required strageties in minutes,
with access to realtime monitoring. The editor can also be used for documentation
as the wiring diagram can be printed.
OPC
Scope is a utility providing trend
plots of process variables. The time axis can be adjusted between
1 min and 1 month, and also provides a Historical Review mode. Data
may also be logged to hard disk, from which it may be retrieved
and analysed in an Excel spreadsheet.
OPC
Server Driver
iTools is available with different features enabled according to the level of functionality required. The following features may be specified, in any combination, when obtaining iTools:
It is possible to upgrade the set of available features by purchasing a new Product Key from Eurotherm. The Configuration Software option is not charged for. However, it may be disabled by Product Key where it is specifically not required. Whenever the Configuration Software option is specified, all other options (where not ordered) will operate in a demo mode as appropriate. If OPC Scope trending and logging has not been specified, the OPC Scope program will still be available as a simple OPC client offering live textual displays. A special demonstration version of iTools is available on this CD. While Configurator, Wizards and Graphical Wiring Editor can be run without restriction, all of the other tools, including View Builder, OPC Scope and the standalone Setpoint Program Editor, will run for 30 minutes for evaluation purposes. After this time a product key is required to permanently enable the chargeable software elements. |
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