Just because a product still functions doesn’t mean it couldn’t benefit from an update, especially when we’re talking automation technology and control system integration – fields that are anything but static. The old “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it” philosophy with the AVEVA PI System has proven not only a security risk but also results in the user’s inability to leverage the full functionality of the latest PI Software capabilities, especially where the older versions of the software are installed and presently in use.
6 Reasons to Upgrade to the Latest Version of the AVEVA PI System
The AVEVA PI System has evolved considerably over time with a focus on security, customer feedback, and market requirements. With the integration of OSIsoft’s IP, the new capabilities of the AVEVA PI have a lot to offer:
1. Heightened Security
Upgrading to the latest versions of the PI Software Suite can help ensure the application of the latest necessary security fixes to the core software, enabling active threat deterrence. In addition, the latest version of the PI software suite enables industries to leverage the most current Windows and network security features while providing access to their users based on current standards, best practices, and industry guidelines.
When upgraded, your automation system has reduced potential cyber and internal threats while preserving the integrity of your data in the PI System.
2. AVEVA PI Technical Support
AVEVA has transformed its skill set to align with the latest versions of the PI Software. With older versions, one can anticipate delayed response time on “time and data-sensitive” issues due to a lack of on-hand technical expertise and solutions to resolve those technical issues.
Furthermore, with changes in user requirements and technological development, many of the current PI tools are either no longer available, supported or are in the process of being eliminated for future usage and technical support.
To keep up with the changing times, it is in the best interest of all PI users to follow the industry standards and remain up to date with their PI System.
3. Greater Data Visibility
A system upgrade gives you access to the newest features and functionality, allowing you to enhance your PI System usage and gain additional benefits. The AVEVA PI System continues evolving by aligning with emerging technologies and industry needs, including data visualization technologies, and the enhancement of their system to integrate with various such technologies.
This allows industries to better serve their end users in meeting data requirements by integrating the PI System across different network layers and platforms, thus providing the end users access to the data based on their user roles and specifications.
4. Optimized Stability & System Performance
A newly upgraded system provides a higher level of stability and can accelerate the data processing speed, which is a primary key necessity in real-time analytics and user data requirements.
5. Future-Proof Your Organization
The newly upgraded system will have the capability to support future growth more easily with the new versions of the software. Staying current also provides the ability to more efficiently scale over different levels of your organization’s network layers and locations with minimum effort.
6. Reduce Long-Term Operating Costs
A control system update allows you to take full advantage of the latest features and reduce associated maintenance costs post-implementation of the most up-to-date versions of the PI Software. PI System upgrades can directly impact the efficiency of the system, resource management and long-term operating costs.
Emerging Trends in AVEVA System Integration
As industrial automation evolves, industrial data system integrators are embracing new technologies to enhance performance and security. Staying ahead of these trends ensures your operations remain competitive, resilient, and data-driven.
AI-Powered Analytics
Machine learning algorithms analyze large datasets from the PI system to identify trends and inefficiencies. This enables real-time process optimization and boosts productivity.
Edge Computing
By processing data closer to the source, edge computing reduces latency and supports faster decision-making. AVEVA integrators are incorporating edge solutions to improve system responsiveness.
Cybersecurity Enhancements
To counter rising cyber threats, integrators are prioritizing robust security frameworks. This includes advanced encryption, access controls, and anomaly detection to safeguard sensitive industrial data.
Optimize Operations with a Control System Upgrade by an AVEVA Integrator
The biggest takeaway when considering the pros and cons of updating your AVEVA (previously OSIsoft) PI System is that it may be a higher cost upfront, but the long-term benefits of maintaining your PI systems recommended upgrades far outweigh the initial expenditure.
Why Partner with Certified AVEVA System Integrators?
Collaborating with certified AVEVA system integrators ensures seamless implementation and long-term reliability as well as:
- Faster Deployment: Certified integrators have in-depth platform knowledge, enabling quicker upgrades with minimal disruption. Their expertise reduces implementation risks and accelerates time to value.
- Compliance Assurance: AVEVA integrators understand industry-specific regulations, such as FDA requirements for life sciences of ISA standards for industrial automation. This ensures your system meets compliance mandates, reducing regulatory risks.
- Ongoing Support and Optimization: Beyond deployment, certified integrators offer continuous monitoring, fine-tuning, and maintenance. This proactive support enhances system performance and scalability over time.
Partnering with certified experts guarantees optimized functionality and future-proofed automation systems.
Key Features of AVEVA System Integrators
What should you be looking for in an AVEVA integration expert? A good system integrator can streamline data management and enhance operational efficiency with:
- Real-Time Data Visualization: Transform raw data into actionable insights with customizable dashboards. AVEVA PI system integrators create intuitive interfaces that display production metrics, system performance, and historical trends, empowering your team to make data-driven decisions.
- Predictive Maintenance: By leveraging PI system data, integrators develop predictive models that detect anomalies, enabling early intervention. This reduces unplanned downtime and extends your equipment lifespan.
- Cloud Integration: With AVEVA Data Hub and cloud platforms, integrators enable secure remote access to critical data. This supports collaboration across locations and ensures data availability for advanced analytics and reporting.
E Tech Group is an endorsed AVEVA system integrator that supports OSIsoft legacy PI and AVEVA PI systems. Whether you’re looking to tune up your control system with a PI update or retrofit your facility automation to expand your capabilities, we can help you by designing, implementing and supporting a custom process automation solution that makes current operations smooth and future updates simple.