I have worked with SEVERAL PV+s of all sizes on lots of AB PLCs. Some times we have trouble with the OIT when we are setting it up or modifying the communication settings but once we are up and running they are far more clear and sharper images and options then any other OIT I've used. We have some crowded networks with 8 SLC 5/05s, 3 Control Logix, 5 15" PV+s and 2 7" PV+s. Some of our OITs have 1500 tags not to mention days worth of trending on each OIT. They work great. We are going through the plant and upgrading one by one of their PVs or Panelmates to PV+s. I recommend.

 

Take a look at HTTP://WWW.EZAUtomation.Net if you want a big bang for the buck. We use them with SLC500 and Control Logix 5550s based on universal ethernet. 1/2 the cost of AB PanelViews with 15" color screens. They also offer profibus and devicenet drivers and soon to release controlnet drivers. Don't worry. Our complete plant is based on them for operations used as a simple OIT. For the heavy use with complete trending, alarming, and logging we still have the independent Wonderware units in the pulpits. Normally we end up with a configuration of 2 to 3 EZ Touch units on the floor level to every 1 Wonderware system.

 

YOU WOULD BE WELL ADVISED TO LOOK INTO IDEC PRODUCTS. AFTER DEALING WITH AB, CTC, SIEMENS, et. al., THE ENDLESS ISSUES WITH SECURITY KEYS, DRIVERS, GLITCHES, PROGRAMMING DIFFICULTY AND SUPPORT, HARDWARE FAILURES, UPGRADE BUGS, EXPENSE, etc., I HAVE FOUND IDEC NEARLY WITHOUT FAULT.

 

Forget about EZautomation ethernet with the SLC5/05s, it's terribly slow. Avoid if at all possible.