The human machine interface (HMI) downloads the designed "program" into its processor through PC or the communication port on it. With the connection with PLC, frequency inverters and meters, the touch screen on HMI displays the parameters or allows the user to enter parameters and monitor abnormality.

Delta offers two types of HMI: the small and simple terminal panel TP series and the advanced DOP series which supports the display of various pictures. DOP and TP are designed for different markets.

TP series includes TP02, TP04 and the TP05 and TP08 to come, and is able to display 2 - 8 lines of texts, with maximum 24 function keys on it. Macros for arithmetic operations, procedure control and data moving and the recipes same as those in DOP are what TP offers you. In addition, the software TPEditor helps you outline the backlight switch, switch between pages, and display the values and statuses of the memory or relays inside the connected controllers by texts, indicators or bar charts. You can modify the values or statuses by the keys on the panel.

DOP series is a multi-functional HMI, including models AS, A, AE and the forthcoming wide screen model B. The panel sizes range from 3.8 to 10.4 inch, and maximum 65,536 colors are available. The images displayed on DOP are refined and vivid and meet the needs of the users. Besides, the control and communication functions in AE models are reinforced by the extension card, and the USB interface adopted for the connection with a computer makes the transmission speed even faster than does RS-232. DOP collects real-time information and displays it on the screen through the connection between Modbus and various controllers or peripheral devices. All kinds of parameters, statuses, alarms and control switches on the connected equipment are beautifully displayed on all kinds of elements on the screen. Furthermore, the data stored in USB or memory card are useful for the analyses on the manufacturing process, which is the most significant for the controlling of all equipment.

In terms of the software of HMI, the Screen Editor for DOP and TPEditor for TP are both "simple, natural in style, user-friendly and consistent", allowing the user to complete the design required within the shortest period of time. Screen Editor of DOP offers macro wizards, helping you quickly plan your macro, and supports multi-languages, making the operation of the software easy for foreign users. A variety of picture bank can be imported into Screen Editor, making the screen more pleasantly presented. What is more, the multi-level password protection enhances the flexibility and safety of operating with passwords. For the file protection, settings of level 0 ~ F in DOP protect the intellectual property of the program.

If you only need to control and display simple and small equipment, e.g. packaging machine or small pharmaceutical equipment, you can go for TP series HMI. If you require higher resolution and more colors, we recommend you DOP series HMI. That is to say, Delta's HMI will always be your best choice!

( To be continued...)