Hot Runner Controls Add VPN Remote Access
Spark Industries says the new application provides a secure and easy way to connect to its hot runner controls from a remote PC—that is a device not on the same network as the HMIs.
Spark Industries has added EasyAccess 2.0 VPN remote access for its hot runner controls. The company says its Fast Heat hot runner controls have been able to be remotely controlled with a VNC Viewer application since the company introduced its latest touchscreen HMIs. However, VNC Viewer applications require the remote access computer or device to be on the same network, meaning that a remote user would have to VPN into that network to connect to a hot runner controller. This bars Spark’s support team or other service technicians without VPN access from remotely accessing these private networks.
With the EasyAccess 2.0, Spark is now offering, a secure and easy connection to its hot runner controls that’s possible from a remote PC or other device that is not on the same network as the HMIs. EasyAccess 2.0 connects the remote PC to the target HMI using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection. Because this is a VPN connection, an internet server is used to establish communications between the remote PC and the HMI.
Doing so provides the user with the current status of each HMI, and once connected, the user can use VNC Viewer to display what is shown on the HMI, as long as the user knows the unit’s IP address. The user can also change screens, push buttons or take any other action that can be performed by the local plant floor operator on the HMI.
All data between the PC and the HMI are encrypted, and EasyAccess 2.0 also allows users to upload or download a new project to the HMI from a remote PC. This program also greatly reduces the bandwidth required for the connections, resulting in faster response times, while allowing more resources to be allocated to other network connections.
The free EasyAccess 2.0 App available for your phone/tablet, allowing one person at a time to view a specific HMI on the domain. To access this server, users need a one-time activation for each HMI connection. There is no limit or charge for the number of users.
The EasyAccess 2.0 program establishes secure connections to Fast Heat hot runner controllers remotely.
Photo Credit: Spark Industries
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