Is the time right to consider Windows CE based HMIs?
Convergence of PC based and automation technologies is fast becoming a reality in the world of industrial control. The border lines are increasingly crossed as customers demand more open systems and more interaction between hardware and software devices, but is openness the way forward? Tommy Hkansson, Technical Manager of world leading HMI supplier Beijer Electronics puts the use of Microsoft’s Windows CE into perspective. In recent years Beijer Electronics only offered HMIs based on bespoke Real-time (see footnote) operating systems to their customers. They have though continually monitored new technologies and waited for a time where they can offer a cost effective, secure and efficient solution to what customers require now and also in the future. With the advent of the latest release of Microsoft’s Windows CE operating system (commonly called CE.NET), and processors that could maximize its performance, the time is right to offer more open HMI solutions. Now Beijer Electronics have
