'Unprecedented traceability' in materials handling

RFID user management supports the "who" component of traceability chain, allowing machine operators to simply swipe their tags to log into the system. Lot management is a feature that automatically interfaces with the barcode scanner to verify all scanned material changes, identify the intended equipment, and alert the user if a wrong material has been scanned.

The WiMaTrace and OPC options allow the M7.3 controller to interface with a PC so that data can be collected and stored for reporting. WiMaTrace and lot management work together to store the barcode scanner data in a database so that the "what" and "where" of material usage can be traced, and it supports custom reports.

The OPC feature opens up the entire M7.3 system, usually via third-party process monitoring software, to collect and store every piece of data generated by the controller. In addition to material usage, this data includes things like user management and temperature set points for interfaced drying equipment.