Technology Snapshot: IDEC Corporation has announced the release of its new HG5G-V 15” human-machine interface (HMI) touchscreen, the largest model in the High-Performance family. This HMI offers more display real estate so applications can readily show extensive process information with improved aesthetics and visibility.

The HG5G-V 15” TFT-LCD screen features a resolution of 1024x768 pixels, producing vivid images and giving users an additional option in the High-Performance family scaled to fit larger applications. Like all HMIs in the series, the HG5G-V offers top-performing brightness of 650 cd/m2 to deliver greater visibility, even in high-glare locations such as direct sunlight. Its best-in-class backlight life rating of 100,000 hours minimum, far exceeds the competition.

An exceptionally wide operating temperature range of -20DegC to +60DegC—as well as IP66F, IP67F, Type 4X, 12, 13, Class I Division 2 hazardous location, and UL61010 approval ratings—assures reliable operation in the toughest environments. The HG5G-V HMI is built for endurance and backed by an industry leading three-year warranty.

Communications capabilities are bolstered by the addition of BACnet/IP, suitable for a wide range of building automation and HVAC applications. Support is included for over 100 other serial and networking industrial protocols such as Modbus RTU Master/Slave and Modbus TCP/IP. Up to four protocols can be used simultaneously, allowing the HG5G-V to exchange data with many sources and systems.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP) functionality allows users to configure the HMI as an FTP Client or Server for transferring programs—and for copying or moving files between local memory, an external memory device or a cloud-based file, database or data storage platform. This provides a convenient and effective remote file transfer method.

Web server functionality for HMI remote monitoring and control is accessed using any device capable of hosting a web browser including a smartphone, tablet or laptop. Accessing the HMI using this method gives a user the same functionality as if standing in front of the HMI on the factory floor. Troubleshooting and maintenance of a system is possible any time and from anywhere, saving travel time and expense.

The HMI also supports industrial internet of things (IIoT) operation by serving up web pages developed using a browser-based web page editor, and it can also generate emails. In addition to browser-based access, users can employ the WindEDIT Lite app on any iOS or Android device over Wi-Fi for two-way communications with the HMI.

Direct control by the HG5G-V HMI is enabled by adding up to four expansion discrete or analog I/O modules. Programming to sense inputs and drive outputs is accomplished within the HMI software, providing a space saving all-in-one automation solution.

USB, Ethernet and SD memory card ports deliver comprehensive connectivity, while unique video-in and audio-out ports enable offer additional flexibility. Increased memory and a faster CPU deliver the performance required for even the most demanding applications.

With the HG5G-V 15” model joining the existing High-Performance series of HMIs sized at 5.7”, 8.4”, 10.4” and 12.1”, users have options for applications on any size equipment. This new generation includes useful improvements to line charts, bar charts, trending and security. All HMIs in the product line are configured using the same simple, intuitive WindO/I-NV4 screen creation software, so users only need to be familiar with one inexpensive software package. Another advantage is projects can automatically be converted from one HMI size to another within seconds using the same software.

In addition to building automation, other industries particularly well suited for the HG5G-V HMI are wastewater treatment, machine tool, packaging equipment, oil & gas, food & beverage, elevator control, power utilities, traffic control and transportation, and others. With extensive communication and IIoT capabilities combined with expanded I/O, the HG5G HMI can control and connect to many types of systems, provide superior local visualization and enable convenient remote access.

As with all its products, IDEC offers free tech support for the HMIs, with no service or support contract required.