At SPS 2024, akYtec launched akYtec Cloud, a free online service designed to make remote industrial monitoring and control more accessible than ever. The platform includes tools for visualizing processes, such as mnemonic diagrams, graphs, tables, reports, a library of animated symbols, and more. akYtec Cloud is optimized for both PCs and mobile devices. The platform features instant notifications, enabling users to receive unlimited messages about custom events or alarms via email or Telegram bot, ensuring they stay informed promptly.
The platform supports connections with both akYtec and third-party devices through network gateways from the Gx24-Cloud series. All data collected from field-level devices is stored on servers located within the EU and meets current Tier III security standards, ensuring data security and integrity. With its built-in OPC UA client and open API, akYtec Cloud can communicate with external systems. This functionality allows it to serve not only as a web-based SCADA system but also as a data layer for custom industrial applications, providing flexibility for various industrial needs.
Examples of applications
akYtec Cloud provides real-time monitoring and automated control, allowing users to define customizable setpoints and event-driven responses based on their specific operational needs. These setpoints are not fixed but fully adjustable, enabling precise tuning for different applications.
For example, in data centers, users can configure ventilation to activate when server room temperatures exceed a specified threshold, such as 27 °C, or set alerts for power anomalies if UPS voltage drops below 210 V. However, these values can be adjusted to match the requirements of a particular facility. Similarly, in boiler houses, heating systems can be programmed to increase fuel supply when temperatures fall below 80 °C, but operators can modify this range depending on process efficiency and safety requirements. Gas pressure monitoring is also adaptable, with alerts set for pressure drops below 1.5 bar or any other threshold deemed critical.
For water treatment and pumping stations, users can define operational pressure ranges, such as maintaining system pressure between 3-6 bar, with backup pumps automatically engaging if it drops below a user-set threshold. Leak detection is based on unexpected flow rate changes, but sensitivity can be tailored to different pipe networks and operational conditions. In agriculture and irrigation, automated watering systems can be configured to activate at soil moisture levels below 30 %, but this setpoint can be modified according to crop type, soil conditions, and local climate. These examples illustrate just a few possibilities of what can be configured within akYtec Cloud. The system is designed for flexibility, allowing operators to define and modify thresholds, automation rules, and notifications to best suit their specific processes and requirements.
Ready for the cloud
The PR103 programmable relay is the first device of its kind from akYtec with integrated Ethernet. akYtec has designed its ‘mini PLC’ primarily for use in smaller automated systems: The compact relay can be used in ventilation and heating systems as well as in automatic pumps and many other devices. With its functionality, it comes close to a programmable logic controller.
The Ethernet interface enables the PR103 to be integrated into distributed systems. It is ready for integration into the akYtec Cloud and can therefore be used for remote control and management of devices. The PR103 has two RS-485 interfaces for data transmission to the higher level. PRM expansion modules can be connected via the internal bus to expand its own inputs/outputs. Algorithms are written by the user in FBD language with support for function blocks on ST in the free ALP programming environment. Algorithms are loaded and configured via microUSB, Ethernet or RS-485.
Versatile connection options
Further specifications: The PR103 has ten digital inputs, four of which are fast digital inputs (up to 100 kHz) suitable for connecting encoders and other high-speed devices. Users can also choose from six universal analogue inputs (4 - 20 mA / 0 - 10 V) and up to ten digital outputs, and the PR103 is also available with up to two analogue outputs. In addition to Ethernet, 2 x RS485 ports are available and connection via USB is also possible. The akYtec ALP software required for programming is free of charge. It enables programming with Function Block Diagrams (FBD) with support for blocks within ST programmes.
PLC and HMI in one device
The SPC210 is a compact, all-in-one solution that integrates the functionality of a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) into a single device. Designed to streamline automation systems, the SPC210 eliminates the need for separate PLC and HMI hardware, reducing installation time, costs, and complexity. This space-saving design is particularly advantageous in automation cabinets with limited space, allowing for more flexible installation and efficient system architecture.
One of the key features of the SPC210 is its wide connectivity options. With RS-232, RS-485, and Ethernet interfaces, it supports widely used industrial protocols such as Modbus RTU/TCP, OPC UA, and MQTT, enabling easy integration into industrial networks and cloud-based solutions. The SPC210 is fully compatible with akYtec’s Mx110 and Mx210 I/O modules, allowing for system expansion without compatibility concerns. Programming the SPC210 is done using CODESYS V3.5, a well-known and flexible development environment.
The SPC210 is ideally suited for applications in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as water treatment plants and other utility and infrastructure projects. Thanks to its built-in visualization capabilities, operators can monitor and control processes directly from the device without the need for an external HMI. Furthermore, SPC210 can be connected directly to akYtec Cloud, providing remote access, real-time monitoring, and automated control, making it a future-proof solution for modern industrial automation.
Powerful partner for industry and utilities
With the akYtec Cloud and the innovations in the field of programmable relays and controllers, the Hanover-based company is proving to be a competent and powerful partner for industry and utility companies.
