KEPServerEX, developed by PTC software subsidiary Kepware, was recently updated to Version 6.1. This release offers enhanced IIoT capabilities, including improved integration with PTC’s IIoT platform ThingWorx. Now, in an effort to help break down IIoT silos, Azure users will also be able to utilize the software.
“A major hurdle in widespread Industrial IoT adoption is interoperability,” explains Kepware’s Erik Dellinger. “With more than 20 billion devices expected to come online in the next five years, and a subsequent flood of complex industrial data, interoperability will become increasingly important.”
KEPServerEX, along with the IoT Gateway plug-in, collects IIoT data and sends it to several different analytic software applications, now including the Azure Cloud. The integration works via the OPC Foundation’s Unified Architecture (OPC UA), a communication protocol with improved support as of KEPServerEX V6.1.
“The integration of KEPServerEX and the Microsoft Azure cloud platform is a great way to support the needs of manufacturers, the OPC UA foundation, and standards that foster IoT innovation,” said Microsoft’s Sam George. “We’re proud to foster the advancement of the IoT ecosystem with Kepware and its deep domain experience.”
The integration has already seen a successful IIoT use case from the BMW Group. The major auto manufacturer has connected the programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in their factories to the Azure Cloudfor the purpose of data analytics and predictive maintenance.
At the end of the day, IoT interoperability can only be achieved through cooperation. By teaming up with Microsoft, PTC is continuing to demonstrate a commitment to the issue.
“It is essential that industrial automation companies and device cloud vendors begin to speak the same language,” said Dellinger. “By collaborating with Microsoft, we are addressing this challenge and strengthening our support for evolving industry standards.”
For more PTC partnerships, read ThingWorx Integration for Industrial Internet of Things Development.