Enhanced Version of Network-Based Control System

The STARDOM network-based control system from Yokogawa (Netherlands) consists of the FCN/FCJ autonomous controllers. The system is used as a main controller for equipment in small- to medium-sized manufacturing plants, facilities that are distributed over a wide area such as oil/gas wells, and wind power generation systems, which is a booming segment of the renewable energy market.

As applications grow more varied, users need to connect with devices such as programmable controllers (PLCs) and motor control centres (MCCs) from other vendors that use different communication protocols. There is thus a rising need for controllers that support a variety of communication protocols.

Also, as STARDOM is often operated and monitored as a DCS subsystem, its security measures must be equivalent to those used by the DCS to protect against cyber-attacks. And, as for the web-based SCADA software, there is the need for a more general-purpose application development environment.

Product Features:

Support of PROFIBUS-DP and CANopen protocols PROFIBUS-DP and CANopen communication modules have been developed for the FCN autonomous controller. These modules make it possible for the FCN controller to communicate directly with devices that support these protocols, eliminating the need for a gateway. An engineering tool is also provided that helps users to configure communications with these devices.

Engineering tool for multiple security models. An IT security setting tool is provided to assist in the configuration of the same multiple security models used with CENTUM VP. When STARDOM is used together with a CENTUM VP system, these models provide the total system with robust protection against cyber-attacks.

Major target markets for the enhanced STARDOM include widely distributed facilities such as those used in oil and gas well and water and wastewater applications, small- to medium-sized process plants in oil, chemicals, iron and steel, nonferrous metals, pulp and paper, food, pharmaceuticals, and other industries, and small- to medium-sized power generation facilities such as wind turbines, steam turbines, and hydropower generation facilities.

Applications include monitoring, operation, control, data collection, and data storage in small- to medium-sized manufacturing facilities.