Factory Talk Transaction Manager Based Database Integration

Overview

Factory Talk Transaction Manager (FTTM) based PLC database integration is a very robust method to exchange data between your PLC equipment and database server systems while using "off the shelf" products. Furthermore, the skills necessary to implement this type of solution are typically found in-house.

Database information is stored on one to many database servers. Using some unique identifier (usually, a bar code scan), a database transaction is requested. Via the FTTM system, data from the database server is transferred to the PLC. Once operation is complete, information is written back to the database server (if required).

Factory Talk Transaction Manager

Factory Talk Transaction Manager is an Allen-Bradley product used to exchange data with a PLC. Tags/addresses in PLC equipment are "bound" to FTTM transactions. By triggering these transactions via the PLC program, data an be exchanged between the processor and database without the need of an intermediate computer.

Stored procedures are created in the database with each stored procedure's parameters (both input and output) bound to a tag/address in a PLC. The Factory Talk Transaction Manager is used to bind stored procedure values to PLC registers.

Database

A SQL server database is required for storing data. Bevan Engineering can design this database and all it's associated tables for you. Once it's time to implement your project, your IT department can receive a copy of this database in it's detached form and attach it to your existing system.

If data from your existing server system is required, a stored procedure can be provided that will allow that access. This type of support is typically found in-house and minimizes the amount of access required from your system.

PLC

Bevan Engineering can modify any existing PLC logic to accommodate information received from your database systems. Conversely, if you choose to have your internal resources perform this portion of the project, FTTM transaction control logic will be provided with a very detailed design spec.

If this is a new process or you choose to replace an older PLC to something more robust and modern, a new PLC program can be written with the transaction handling logic included.

 

Strengths and Weaknesses
Strength	Weakness
No special programming skills are required. Many IT departments have personnel capable of of developing stored procedures.	Factory Talk Transaction Manager with at least 300 tags needs to be purchased (entry fee)
No personal computers are required	If the Factory Talk Transaction Manager goes down, all connected equipment will follow *
Tag limit can be upgraded incrementally	Each system will require a HMI interface (e.g. PanelView 700+)
Full 24/7 support available through Rockwell's tech connect service.	The entire system will need to be taken "down" to add a new process.
No part of the system depends on the existence of a vendor.	System should run on an isolated part of the network to allow maximum bandwidth
	Development and debug more difficult

* The same holds true for any system dependent on a database server. However, the Factory Talk Transaction Manager system can be configured to roll over to a redundant system.