MES network requirements

The MES network comprises the following network types:

• Controls network

• Plant Production network

• Business network

• Corporate wide area network (WAN)

Not every plant will have these network distinctions, and the separation between the networks will vary from site to site and company to company.

The following sections describe each of these networks. It is important to understand the reasons for these network distinctions so that you know how to design the MES solution. For example topologies with these network types identified, see MES solution design.

Controls network

The Controls network contains all machine controllers [programmable logic controller (PLC), distributed control system (DCS), supervisory control and data acquisition(SCADA), etc.]. It might contain several segments distributed throughout the plant and it is not necessarily an Ethernet network.

This network allows separation of the controls system from the rest of the network for security and bandwidth issues. It is characterized by a high volume of traffic, usually more or less constant.

Access to this network is strictly controlled. Generally, supervisory control systems (InTouch) or MES clients should not be on the Controls network. However, the Operation Integration Servers (OIS) should be on the Controls network. The OIS must also be able to connect to your Application Server.

Plant production network

The Plant Production network is the main MES network. It will host or provide access to all MES servers. Also the direct access clients (Engineering station, Supervisor station, and Operator stations) usually will be on this network.

This network allows controlled access to the shop floor systems. Office users are not on this network, as they might download large files that could interfere with data acquisition or access to the system. This network is characterized by relatively few clients, controlled access, and moderate traffic. It is usually on the Internet but might have some restrictions.

Plant business network

The Plant business network is the main network for most non-direct production staff. Some users will require access to the MES Report Server. For different methods of providing access, see Network interconnection requirements . In some circumstances, the Engineering Stations and Supervisor Stations will be on the Plant Business network.

This network is characterized as open, with many clients and varying traffic loads that might cause it to be slow at times. It is usually placed on the other side of the firewall from the Production network It might be part of the corporate WAN with or without a firewall.

Corporate wide area network (WAN)

The Corporate WAN is distinguished by its physical location, which is usually off site but connected through a direct or dedicated line. The ERP (enterprise resource planning) system (e.g., SAP) will reside on the Corporate WAN or Business network. The Database Server (for the ERP interface) requires access to it, usually through the firewall.

The Corporate WAN is characterized by a slower connection. However, it is generally a stable and reliable connection.