system designer and product experts of the various devices having issues.

By working collaboratively, finger-pointing issues are minimized and

resolutions can be made much quicker. Each expert’s ability to directly
connect to their device in real-time will allow them to determine if the
interaction is proper and identify any communication issue. Most vendors
can evaluate the standalone device’s health, but most of the problems are
communication or interaction with other devices.

Control sequencing of multiple control systems

Production lines with multiple stations can be composed of multiple

control systems that are linked together mechanically. These systems can
be sequenced by the controller of one station providing information to the
next in line. While simple systems can use a discrete output, more complex
applications can use high-speed, peer-to-peer communication.

Peer to Peer Coordination

HMI

Drives Remote I/O

Figure 4.4c
Control systems can be linked together where the
interaction of one systems is synced to another.

By properly connecting to these systems a remote expert can be as effective

remotely as they could being local. The difference is that with the proper
systems in place, the expert can respond much quicker by eliminating
the delays associated with traveling to the site. A key element will be the
connection points required for proper troubleshooting.

2021 I Practical Guide for Remote Access to Plant Equipment 55