How Can You Choose the Best HMI Solution?

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First, let’s start with the basics.

What is HMI?

A Human Machine Interface (HMI) is a user interface most commonly used in industrial manufacturing and automation environments. An HMI allows operators to monitor and control machinery using visual representations of the components in real time. It also enables operators to optimize efficiency by providing insight into mechanical performance and progress.

What is HMI used for?

HMI solutions are most commonly deployed to control complex manufacturing and industrial automation systems by relatively few operators. Often the operators use SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) management software such as Ignition. Manufacturing facilities of every kind have adopted these graphic systems due to their reliability and ease of use.

HMIs are used to:

• Track production time and trends
• Enable automated control and offer feedback on those automated control systems
• Observe system inputs and outputs
• Monitor system health and performance

Since HMIs typically offer a visual representation of the system or systems being controlled, training is much easier and operators have intuitive insight into the status of equipment and production.

The best HMI is built for durability and a long lifecycle

In the past, desktop computers were commonly used for HMI systems because they offer a familiar interface and control via mouse and keyboard. However, consumer desktop computers lack the durability and longevity required in industrial environments. Dust, debris, and wide temperature variations are common environmental factors in those settings.

The best HMI can withstand an extreme environment and offers a long lifecycle. For your HMI panel PC,  you can select an industrial all-in-one panel PC or build one by combining an industrial or rugged computer and separate touch screen display. When space is tight, an all-in-one panel PC is often a good choice. However, if you want the flexibility to swap out components, choose a modular build-your-own approach. Check out our blog on the 7 step process to select a Panel PC.

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What are the different types of HMIs?

There are three main types of HMIs, each with different capabilities that are suited for different applications. Understanding the difference between each type of HMI is critical in making sure the one you choose is well-suited for your unique application.

Pushbutton Replacer HMI

Pushbutton replacers take the place of manual buttons. Instead of having potentially hundreds of buttons, switches, and LEDs on a control panel, you can have a visual representation of all of these on one screen. Because pushbutton replacers allow for more controls in a considerably smaller space, these types of HMIs are often used in industrial settings.

Data Handler HMI

Data handlers are often used in applications that require the constant gathering and monitoring of data. Because data handlers are responsible for processing large amounts of data, they often come with large capacity memories. This makes data handlers ideal for applications that require high amounts of data collection from machinery.

Overseer HMI

The Overseer HMI is ideal for MES (manufacturing execution system) and SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) applications. The most visual of the three, overseer HMIs offer an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI).

Once you understand your requirements, we’re here to help you choose the best HMI solution. Contact our technical sales staff today!

You can read the full in depth article here  or subscribe to our email communications for more information.