TCP/IP is a network communication protocol that allows nodes (computers and other devices) on an Ethernet network to exchange information among them. TCP/IP can be used in a LAN (Local Area Network) or through the Internet. InstantHMI implements TCP/IP, which allows the transfer of data between InstantHMI nodes (PC, PDA or Windows CE) across the room or across the world.

EtherNet/IP is an 'Encapsulation Protocol' which carries forward the flavor of TCP/IP (and UDP/IP) very well. The EIP encapsulated message packet transmitted over the Ethernet media is embedded in a TCP/IP packet.

EtherNet/IP implementation in InstantHMI enables access to AB Logix controller tags without requiring  ladder logic change. Data access includes Class and Object Attributes thus simplifying and streamlining HMI functions across your entire industrial network. Access to Legacy Controller Files (PLC5e, SLC5/05, MicroLogix etc) is supported.

ActiveX controls inherit much of their design from OLE documents, which allow applications to embed their data transparently in other applications. ActiveX Controls are COM objects with an User Interface. The InstantHMI Screen Designer and PC Runtime Engine are ActiveX containers. The Screen Designer as a container will allow you to insert ActiveX Control objects into the screen document.

OPC (OLE for Process Control) is a standard OLE/COM interface communication protocol that allows OPC Servers and OPC Clients to exchange information relevant to field devices, and process controllers. InstantHMI implements OPC Client Data Access to OPC Servers.

Bluetooth technology is built into many PDAs and provides RF (Radio Frequency) communications in the 2.45 GHz spectrum (using Frequency Hopping). Class 1 devices have a range of about 30 feet, while class2 devices have range of 300 feet. Serial Bluetooth adapters provide Bluetooth capability to serial ports on legacy controllers and this eliminates the need for a serial cable link.

 WiFi and Infrared wireless links are useful when devices are inaccessible or in hazardous locations.  InstantHMI is capable of communicating via Infrared (IR) or WiFi to Controllers. IR and WiFi Connectivity Kits from Software Horizons help convert almost any Controller into a wireless device.