I've got a machine control application involving a Z-World BL1710. A PC front end will run an HMI software package under Windows. The PC will communicate with the Z-World via a serial link.

All machine control is handled by the Z-World controller. The PC just allows the operator to monitor the machine I/O status and control its operation by issuing simple commands to the Z-World controller (ie. RUN, STOP, RESET, etc.).

The HMI software must also include a database feature that stores recipes for all products that are to be manufactured. Individual products are selected, and the appropriate recipe is downloaded to the Z-World controller prior to a production run.

Can anyone recommend an appropriate HMI package that has all these features?

 

Try NI's Labview basic basic package (about $1000). It has all the functionality you'll need to access PCs serial ports. ( "www.ni.com":http://www.ni.com )