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28 {{ "2014-03-28T00:00:00+00:00" | date "MMM" }} '14

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HMS Industrial Networks AB

Configure PLCs and machines remotely with Netbiter^® Remote Access

HMS Industrial Networks now introduces Netbiter Remote Access into the Netbiter Remote Management solution. Remote Access is a technology that provides an instant, secure communication tunnel to remote equipment, such as PLCs and machines. It allows users to employ their usual PLC configuration software such as Rockwell RSlogix^® or Siemens TIA Portal^®, just as if they were connected to the machine on site. This makes it possible to instantly take action in case an operational problem occurs and reduces the need to travel to the site.

Netbiter Remote Access makes it possible for machine builders, system integrators, OEMs and end users to instantly connect to devices, equipment or machines from any location. The solution provides a secure communication tunnel for PC-based software applications and allows PLC programmers and machine owners to configure, reprogram and debug the machinery from any location saving both time and travel costs while improving customer service.

How it works
Users first connect a Netbiter EasyConnect™ 300-series gateway to their remote device or machine. By running the Netbiter QuickConnect™ software on a computer, a secure tunnel is created to the Netbiter gateway and the device/machine to which it is connected. PLC programmers or machine owners can simply open their regular configuration software (such as RSLogix or TIA Portal) and configure or debug just as if they were on site.

The secure connection is established via the cloud-based Netbiter Argos data center. This means that there is no need for opening inbound ports in firewalls or setting up VPN connections on site. The result is a secure connection which is set up a matter of minutes.

Simplicity and security
“Simplicity and security are the main traits of Netbiter Remote Access,” says Henrik Arleving, Product Line Manager at HMS Industrial Networks. “After connecting the Netbiter gateway to a machine, users can access their machines and be up and running within minutes from any location. This is a much sought-after functionality that will save machine builders, system integrators, PLC programmers and maintenance staff a lot of time and effort, not to mention substantially decreased travel costs.”

Solid security
Data is encrypted both to and from Netbiter Argos and it is also possible to choose a two-step verification method (logging in with a password and also getting an SMS to verify the user’s identity). This ensures secure data connection to the remote equipment. Since the connection is made through the Netbiter Argos, which acts as a routing portal for all communication, there is no need to bother with fixed IP addresses or holes in the users’ firewalls.

Netbiter Remote Access is available as of April 2014.