Drag and Drop Live Process Data into Excel With OPC DataHub

Excel users can now drag and drop live data from their production systems directly into a spreadsheet for real-time analysis and dynamic reporting. New technology supports 2-way continuous data transfer between OPC and Excel, with no special plug-ins or macros required.

Georgetown, Ontario (PRWEB) March 28, 2006 -- The new OPC DataHub from Cogent Real-Time Systems feeds live data from any OPC-based production system into an Excel spreadsheet to perform real-time data analysis or generate dynamic summary reports. Data generated by Excel spreadsheets can also be sent back to the production system, all without the need for complex macro programming or special Excel plug-ins.

"Connecting Excel to OPC has never been easier" said Mr. Andrew Thomas, president of Cogent. "You just select your points and drag them into an open spreadsheet. Release the mouse button, and they start updating."

Connecting Excel to OPC has never been easier

The OPC DataHub links any number of OPC servers across a standard network or Internet connection to any Excel worksheet. The data flow can be configured as one-way or bidirectional, and optimized to reduce network traffic in large applications. Spreadsheets saved with links to the OPC DataHub are automatically updated with the most recent values as soon as they are opened, making production reporting accurate and consistent.

"This technology is useful for managers and planners as well as engineers," said Mr. Thomas. "Now they can view live reports and real-time production analysis from data linked directly to the source. The numbers update continuously as production conditions change in real time."

In addition to connecting Excel to OPC servers, the OPC DataHub also links to other applications and operating systems. It can be used to bridge between OPC servers or connect to relational databases like SQL Server or Oracle. The OPC DataHub also provides customizable web access to process data, making it accessible from a web browser anywhere in the world.

The OPC DataHub builds on Cogent's established middleware technology, first introduced in 1995 and currently in use in thousands of systems worldwide. This technology allows users to seamlessly integrate data across multiple Windows, Linux and QNX platforms.

Founded in 1995, Cogent Real-Time Systems is the leader in real-time cross-platform data integration between Windows, Linux and QNX. Customers include the Bank of Canada, Cadbury Chocolate and the European Space Agency. Cogent leverages its experience in real-time data communications to provide the next generation of OPC products.

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