software HMI

Anything that will affect the computer will affect the program. If your HMI computer gets infected, you can be sure that your program will either malfunction or not function at all.

When our factory first started using desktop computers for HMI, we experienced an infection in our incinerator/boiler. One moment the screen was showing the process, then the screen went blank except for a devil's face and a "bwa ha ha ha!" from the speakers! It scared the bejezus out of me!

The operator hesitated for a minute, unsure of what to do. His view of the process had disappeared so he didn't know what was going on. For an agonizing minute, we debated. I wanted to hit the emergency stop which would shut down the boiler but would surely shutdown the whole factory. He wanted to consult his boss but was unable to find him. Finally, he brought his hand down on the emergency stop.

A computer virus is dangerous, more so in a factory environment. Remember that.

Regards,

Vulcan

Most of HMI software is proprietary,if the HMI is web enabled that could mean it is Ethernet enabled. If it is PC based then you have reason to be concerned. Most of the Maple,Panel View, and Red Lion HMI's are not PC based and the risk of a virus getting to it is very small. with out the specific software and proper communication cables they are "a little " more secure that a web based PC HMI. That is not to say that a virus can't compromise the the HMI operating software that is used to program the HMI.Then that can be transfered to the HMI. That being said, Alan Bradly and their product lines and the GE Proficy series is pretty good about self checking a program before it is able to switch to a run mode. Unless the virus is smart enough to rewrite logic I think it will be pretty safe. If it is that smart I will retreat and hide from Sky-net