Example MES test system topology

A test system for the MES solution is highly recommended. The test system will allow you to test changes, verifying they have the desired effect before implementing them in production.

The typical test system can run on less expensive hardware, as shown in the following diagram.

The three general types of test systems and the components they would typically include are described below.

Typical test system

• Database Server

• Work Tasks Server

This type of test system will typically not have the following:

• Archive Server (this server can be tested on the Database Server)

• Terminal Server (the Operator stations are tested directly from the Database and Work Tasks Servers)

• Direct IO

Advanced test system

• Archive Server and Terminal Server

• Simulated IO

• Test ERP and other business system interfaces used by MES

• MES Cloud Integration

Full test system

A full test system will have all of the components of the production system. A full test system (i.e., with all servers) can expose issues related to areas such as licensing, security, and performance that might not be seen on smaller test systems.