Functionalities
This page outlines the high-level features provided by the FactoryClient solution.
Core Features & Integration Points:
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5-Minute Rapid Setup: Terminals offer a rapid 5-minute setup duration process, allowing teams to pair a fresh terminal to any gateway having the Plantformance Device Management module installed
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Dual-Application Flexibility: Terminals provide complete multi-framework versatility, running either an Ignition Vision or a Perspective application natively to suit specific operational requirements.
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Automated Desktop and UI Sync: Ignition Applications shortcuts are automatically built and updated on the terminal, eliminating manual configuration whenever projects are published or modified at the gateway.
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Hybrid Gateway Firmware Lifecycle: Firmwares are automatically updated down to the terminals from the central gateway module. The gateway can either pull updates dynamically from the internet when connected, or administrators can upload firmware versions once (only) directly to the gateway to support completely air-gapped installations.
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Industrial-Grade Hardware Isolation: Built on a rugged fanless chassis.
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Industrial-Grade Mounting Options: Delivered with wall mounting, Vesa mounting, DIN rail mount
Integration Points:
Rather than acting as a bolted-on external tool, FactoryClient with its management module is deeply embedded into Ignition’s core architecture.
It interacts with the platform across five critical layers:
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Native Tag Provider Replication: The module automatically adds a managed tag provider upon startup. Each physical FactoryClient terminal natively appears as a dedicated sub-folder within this tag provider, structuring master data, network status, interfaces and performance metrics.
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Automated Provisioning and Lifecycle Tracking: A graphical configuration assistant handles zero-touch provisioning at initial terminal boot, automatically establishing connection to the FactoryBrain server or gateway module. Once paired, the gateway tracks the device lifecycle as a unique UDT instance.
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Centralized Gateway UI Presence: The module fully integrates into the standard Ignition Gateway web interface, injecting dedicated, native configuration menus, master-data licensing tools, and real-time operational status dashboards.
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Unified Network and Webserver Integration: Deployed terminals communicate back to the central gateway via standard network wiring (LAN RJ45) without a need for specific port openings. Industrial configurations can be managed, monitored, and pushed remotely from the central web management platform over the single infrastructure.