ABB’s Connecting Bridge: Future Automation Without Factories – ICN Magazine

ABB Ability™ System 800xA® version 7.0 released, the key to modernization without interruption of operations

A global leader in electrification and automation ABB‘ABB Ability™ System 800xA, the latest version of the next-generation Distributed Control System (DCS) that supports modernization without downtime at industrial sites.^® 7.0’ was introduced. This new product is designed to serve as a bridge to the latest automation technology while maintaining existing facilities.

Clever separation of core control and digital innovation, ‘Automation Extended’

The biggest feature of this 7.0 version is ‘Automation Extended’ This is the first time the program has been applied. The core of this technology is the so-called ‘Separation of Concerns’ It is in Architecture. This is a method of clearly dividing the core control layer that runs the factory safely and the digital layer where data analysis or artificial intelligence (AI) operates.

Previously, adding new digital functions required touching the entire system, which carried a high risk of downtime. However, System 800xA 7.0 protects the mission-critical control environment while gradually adding advanced analysis or AI-based decision-making tools on top of it. This allows factory operators to pursue digital innovation as needed, when needed, without compromising system stability.

Modernization without interruption of operations, reducing costs and risks at the same time with ‘Extension Pack’

ABB also innovated the way it provides software in this version. This model, called ‘Extension Packs’, allows you to maintain the basic software version and update it independently with only new innovations. It is a structure that can dramatically reduce the risk of having to stop the entire factory for a large-scale upgrade, and also reduce the cost of system maintenance.

Additionally, cybersecurity functions have been significantly strengthened. Malicious code protection based on Microsoft Defender is installed as standard, and is an international security standard. IEC 62443Comply with By securing compatibility with the latest Windows operating system and ensuring long-term support (LTS), we have laid a solid foundation for companies to prepare in advance for future security threats and technological changes.

“Customers want to modernize at their own pace while protecting the value of their existing assets,” said Stefan Basenach, senior vice president of ABB Automation Technologies. “System 800xA 7.0 is a milestone that provides both robustness today and flexibility for the future.”