OPC (OLE for Process Control) is a standardized, open, uniform and multi-vendor software interface. OPC is based on the Windows technology of COM (Component Object Model), DCOM (Distributed COM) or on XML.

Windows-based systems such as SIMATIC Panel PC or SIMATIC Multi Panels are used for tasks at the machine and process levels, and can communicate with all OPC-compatible applications via Ethernet using TCP/IP and OPC. WinCC flexible Runtime or the SIMATIC Multi Panel (OPC-Server) provide data for one or more OPC clients. As a result, local visualization and data processing are possible to the same extent as plant-wide calling of information or archiving of process data. Uniform flows of information guarantee an overview of the status of all processes.

Communication with OPC-compatible applications from different vendors (e.g. MES, ERP, or applications in the office sector) is possible.

OPC Foundation

http://www.opcfoundation.org