Free single terminal HMI software

[Nathan 7]

There is the other exciting surprise with the Ignition Platform release (evolution of FactorySQL and FactoryPMI). Inductive Automation is offering a free HMI called "Panel Edition". The limitations are that it doesn't include historical support (trending), database support, and only runs on the local PC (one instance instead of the usual ability to run on any computer(s) on your network). It is extremely capable as an HMI platform - you could even install multiple copies on separate computers - a lot like the traditional RSView model. The idea is that you use an Industrial Touch PC such as from AB, Hope Industrial, etc for small projects, or even supplement large ones. Since the OPC server is also free, you can do a whole project - for yourself or your customer, for $0 in software. I've seen a number of people on this forum doing home/student projects that this would be perfect for. It would also serve you well as a stand alone backup in the event of a failure for existing systems. Only OEMs and software companies can't have the software for free. The way it works is you contact Inductive Automation for a free license - it applies to the "Vision" module (Formerly FactoryPMI). As soon as you activate the Gateway with that license, the 2 hour demo trial goes away. The Historian/DB capabilities will still run in trial mode. The HMI (Vision) projects becomes only launchable from the local machine. You can add/remove licenses if you purchase packages, want to revert to the fully functional (but 2 hour runtime locked) demo mode, etc. I'd encourage anyone who might use Panel Edition on customer projects to set up an in-house demo in their office. You can download the software for free. The entire install literally takes 2 minutes. You also get free high quality support on the IA forums. Existing FactoryPMI customers will immediately recognize what a great deal this is!