OPC, which stands for "OLE for Process Control", refers to a standard specification for data communication between industrial automation devices. The term "OLE" (Object Linking and Embedding) is a Microsoft technology that allows applications to share information with each other. Thus, OPC was initially developed to make it easier for data to communicate between Windows-based applications and industrial automation devices, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and distributed control systems (DCS).

In the complex landscape of industrial automation, one of the most challenging tasks has always been ensuring fluid communication between various devices and systems. One of the solutions to this challenge was the development of communication drivers, which serve as bridges between different devices, allowing them to "talk" to each other. However, with the diversity of equipment and protocols, this task has become increasingly difficult. This is where OPC (Ole Process Control) came into the picture, offering a standardized approach to this communication.

Why is OPC so important?

Before the introduction of OPC, each hardware or software manufacturer had its own way of communicating and interacting with other systems. This made it complex and expensive to integrate different devices and software, as it required custom interfaces and specific drivers for each combination.

OPC emerged as a solution to this problem, offering an open standard that any manufacturer could implement. In doing so, OPC has made it much simpler and more cost-effective to integrate different industrial automation devices and systems, regardless of manufacturer.

How does OPC work?

The OPC architecture is based on clients and servers. Here is a simplified explanation:

• OPC Server: It is the software that communicates directly with automation devices. It "translates" data from these devices into a standard OPC format.

• OPC Client: It is the software that needs data from the devices. It requests this data from the OPC server, and the server in turn provides this data in standard OPC format.

This way, instead of having client software created specifically to communicate with each type of device, developers can create an OPC client that communicates with any OPC server. And in turn, device manufacturers can create OPC servers that communicate with any OPC client.

OPC played (and still plays) a crucial role in standardizing communication in the automation industry. It allows for easier and more cost-effective integration between different devices and systems, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Whether you are an automation professional, a student or simply someone curious about the subject, understanding OPC and the role of communication drivers is essential to have a clearer view of the current industrial automation scenario.

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