Introduction to FactoryTalk AssetCentre
FactoryTalk AssetCentre is a system designed to monitor factory automation processes and provide centralized tools to minimize downtime. It achieves this by offering:
- Version control and archiving of program files and documents.
- A disaster recovery system for quick and accurate recovery of device configurations.
- Monitoring of FactoryTalk-enabled software, logging system events, and user actions.
- Management of device configuration files.
FactoryTalk Services Platform
The FactoryTalk AssetCentre utilizes the FactoryTalk Services Platform for seamless connectivity with other Rockwell Automation software. User and computer information is managed within the FactoryTalk Directory, with access controlled by FactoryTalk Security.
Documentation Set
This documentation set includes:
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Installation Guide (Document ID FTAC-IN005): This manual guides users through the installation of the FactoryTalk AssetCentre system. It is also available within the installation package.
- Help: Comprehensive in-system help for using the FactoryTalk AssetCentre.
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Getting Results Guide (Document ID FTAC-GR002): Assists users in getting started with the system.
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Utilities User Manual (Document ID FTAC-UM001): Provides assistance for using various utilities within the FactoryTalk AssetCentre system.
All documentation can be found in the Rockwell Automation Literature Library.
About This Book
This guide is intended for FactoryTalk AssetCentre administrators and IT professionals. Familiarity with Microsoft Windows operating systems, Microsoft SQL Server, RSLinx Classic, FactoryTalk Linx, and Rockwell Automation programming tools is assumed.
Components of FactoryTalk AssetCentre
A FactoryTalk AssetCentre system comprises four primary components:
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Server: Controls the system and its operations, requiring Microsoft SQL Server.
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Clients: Allow users to configure, use the server, and view events. Clients must be connected to the server.
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Web Client: Provides web-based access to FactoryTalk AssetCentre client functions, accessible from computers and mobile devices.
- FactoryTalk AssetCentre Agents: Perform scheduled operations like Disaster Recovery and searches independently, distributing the processing load.
System Requirements
FactoryTalk AssetCentre operates within the system requirements of all Rockwell Automation software products. Specific hardware and software requirements are detailed within the document for optimal performance.
