OPC UA is a standardized communication framework and platform-independent, service-oriented architecture for industrial automation. It allows machines, devices, and systems in the industrial environment to communicate and share data with each other. OPC UA provides a rich set of features for secure and reliable data exchange, including data access, alarms, events, and historical data.

Key features

• Interoperability: Facilitates communication between heterogeneous devices and systems.
• Security: Incorporates built-in security measures to protect data integrity and confidentiality.
• Scalability: Adapts to different use cases, from small devices to large-scale systems.

OPC UA PubSub is an extension of the OPC UA standard that introduces a publish-subscribe communication model. In the traditional client-server model, a client requests data from a server. In the publish-subscribe model, publishers (devices or applications) send data to a message broker, and subscribers (other devices or applications) receive data from the broker. This decouples data producers from data consumers and enables more scalable and flexible communication patterns.

Key benefits

• Decoupling: Publishers and subscribers operate independently, simplifying system design.
• Efficient Data Exchange: Only relevant data is sent, reducing bandwidth and improving responsiveness.
• Flexibility: Supports various data patterns, making it suitable for diverse applications.

TSN is a set of standards within the IEEE 802.1 working group that provide deterministic and time-critical capabilities for Ethernet networks. TSN is designed to ensure that data is transmitted reliably and with predictable timing in industrial and real-time communication applications. It includes mechanisms for time synchronization, data traffic shaping and low-latency communication.

Key features

• Deterministic Performance: Guarantees low-latency communication, essential for real-time applications.
• Clock Synchronization: Synchronizes devices across the network, allowing coordinated operations.
• Mixed Traffic Support: Enables both real-time and standard traffic to coexist, optimizing network usage.

OPC UA FX is a subset of the OPC UA standard focused on communication in the field level of industrial automation. It provides a standardized way for devices at the sensor and actuator level to communicate with higher-level systems, ensuring interoperability among diverse devices and systems. FX enhances data exchange efficiency, supports real-time requirements, and simplifies integration in complex automation environments.

Key benefits

• Dynamic Data Handling: Allows for real-time changes in data models, accommodating evolving industrial needs.
• Complex Data Structures: Better supports intricate data types and relationships.
• Enhanced Interoperability: Streamlines integration across different systems and devices.