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OPC Server

A software application that exposes industrial data and services through one or more OPC specifications to OPC clients.

Definition

An OPC Server is a software application that provides standardized access to industrial devices, control systems, historians or other data sources using one or more OPC specifications. It publishes real-time data, historical information, alarms, events and other services to authorized OPC clients while managing communication with the underlying industrial systems.

Why It Matters

OPC Servers provide standardized, vendor-independent access to industrial data and services for OPC client applications.

In Practice

Modern OPC Servers typically implement OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA), although many continue to support legacy OPC Classic specifications such as OPC DA, HDA and A&E to facilitate integration with existing industrial systems.

Common Misuse

An OPC Server exposes industrial information and services to connected applications, whereas OPC clients consume that information for visualization, analysis, control or integration.

Term Details
Synonyms:
OPC Server; OPC UA Server; OPC DA Server; Industrial Data Server
Classification:
Standards, Codes & Regulations
Concept
Intermediate
Applications

Industrial Automation; Information Management; System Integration.

Where It's Used

Process automation.; Manufacturing.; Oil and gas.; Utilities.; SCADA.

References

IEC 62541

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