Product/Service

Universal Client

Source: MDT Software
Software Change Management for All Your Programmable Devices
Software Change Management for All Your Programmable Devices (HMIs, Robots, Scales, Inspection Stations, Transmitters, PLCs, Etc.)

Software programs control all of the programmable devices in your plant. T his includes Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), robots, scale systems, inspection stations, transmitters, programmable controllers, and a variety of other intelligent devices.

With MASSAutoSave™ from MDT Software, you can manage programming changes to all of these devices automatically, dramatically increasing efficiencies and ensuring peak automation software and process performance.

The MASS AutoSave Universal™ Client/Server software supports all TCP/IP-capable devices; not just major brands of programmable controllers.

The Universal module, combined with other MASS AutoSave software, provides a centralized, plant-wide PDS/program-panel solution. Using one common interface to all programs and files, you gain a documented, well-defined automation

environment that provides:

  • Secured Access
  • Version Control
  • Automated Archiving/Backups
  • Audit Trails
  • Automatic Change Notification
  • Quick Disaster Recovery
  • FDA, OSHA, EPA and ISO 9000 Compliance Support
  • Year 2000 Validation Assistance


Here's How It Works

MASS AutoSave's Universal module is composed of two parts: the client application and the server application.
The client is a secured, menu-driven Windows 95/98/NT-based program installed on the programming node or device. It can store and retrieve information on an as-needed basis and provide access to all the features of the server.

The server acts as the master control center, coordinating all change-related programming activities and storing all Universal-device programs and/or files. The Universal client/server can be configured to automatically launch any DOS or Windows 95/98/NT software, saving time and extending PDS security.

Secured Access

The menu-driven client interface enables users to access the functions of the server via logins and passwords. When a user logs in:

  • The server determines if the user is authorized to access MASS AutoSave areas/programs.

  • If the user is authorized, a list of all plant areas and/or devices to which the user is allowed access is posted to the client.

  • The user selects a device.

    Unauthorized changes are minimized, greatly reducing costly errors.
    Version Control

    When a user requests a device program from the server via the client interface, a lock is created, indicating that this program is in use. A display of who checked out the program, when and where is also provided. The system can be configured to deny access by others while the program is in use or to allow retrieval of a copy for read-only or emergency purposes.

    When the user exits the client and saves changes, the documentation files are transferred back to the server. The client automatically compares the files to previous copies and updates the Current Copy with the changes. The revision history log is also updated and designated users are automatically notified of the changes via e-mail.

    Extensive Compare capabilities detect new, deleted, or modified files. ASCII files are automatically detected and a smart compare is performed highlighting what changed in the file. Programs are automatically compared on check-in to the MASS AutoSave NT-based server. Hypertext Web browser links included in the e-mailed results of scheduled, check-in or demand compares allow you to click and view detailed results.

    Since the Current Copy is stored on the server, you can be sure the correct program is running at each station and all changes are captured.

    MDT Software, 2520 Northwinds Parkway, Suite 100, Alpharetta, GA 30004. Tel: 678-297-1000; Fax: 678-297-1003.