Building upon Barco's experience in packaging, processing and related industries, PLANTMASTER features Barco's wireless technology for data collection, together with support for the latest machine communication protocols such as Euromap 63 and OPC

Using the Microsoft Windows operating system and Oracle relational database, PLANTMASTER offers a collaborative suite of application modules and seamlessly integrates with the customer's ERP system. Typical applications include real-time production monitoring, scheduling, tool management, Statistical Process Control (SPC) and maintenance management. Recent projects have included integration of RFID tags for operator tracking and material/parts traceability.

With spiralling energy costs being a concern for all manufacturers, PLANTMASTER offers energy monitoring and reporting at the sub-metering level (e.g. per machine) of the requirements for an aMT (automatic Monitoring and Targeting) system. Process parameter monitoring has been introduced direct from the system "Plant View" screen, providing
immediate alarm and control/warning limit reports for temperatures, pressures etc.

The PLANTMASTER scheduling system supports Kan-Ban production methods and features a "tool configurator" which allows the planner to configure his tool on the spot, using available tool frames and inserts. For 2007 PLANTMASTER will also provide scheduling for secondary resources such as peripheral equipment (chillers, robots, re-grinders etc) and operators (direct, indirect), as well as family tools (frames, inserts etc).

The range of wireless Barco machine data units is extended with the introduction of Bluetooth capability for the latest Touch Screen Data Unit (TSDU). System installation is now simplified with a "plug & play" approach supporting all standard connection protocols via a choice of cabled or wireless infrastructure.

PLANTMASTER monitors and synchronizes manufacturing activities both for individual operations and global networks of plants. PLANTMASTER enables continuous improvement and is especially effective in a lean/six sigma manufacturing environment. As such PLANTMASTER offers a powerful and lexible management tool that provides managers with real time isibility on all Key Performance Indicators (KPI), enabling them to achieve operational excellence.