Automation & robotics
Human-machine interfaces
Human-machine interfaces (HMIs), from machine-mounted operator panels to monitors and tablets, that let operators view process data, track production, adjust settings and respond to alarms.
Overview
An HMI is the operator's window into a machine or process. It connects to PLCs, drives and sensors and presents live values, trends, charts and dashboards, along with alarm lists and controls for starting, stopping and changing setpoints. HMIs can be built-in operator panels on the machine, industrial monitors or tablets, and can share data with SCADA, MES and ERP systems.
Typical users are machine operators, maintenance staff, system integrators and control engineers, each needing different screens and access levels.
Selecting an HMI
Consider screen size and resolution for the information to be shown, the communication driver for the connected PLC or drive, the number of tags and screens, alarm and data-logging needs, user access control, mounting cut-out and front-panel protection, and supply voltage. Remote access and integration with higher-level systems should be decided early.
Range overview
- Types and variants
- Machine-Mounted Operator Panels
- Industrial Monitors
- Industrial Tablets
- Features
- Graphs, Charts and Dashboards
- Alarm Management
- Production and KPI Tracking
- PLC and I/O Communication
- SCADA, MES and ERP Integration
Exact specifications depend on the variant, material and size. Confirm ratings and certification against the datasheet or with our engineers before ordering.
Applications
- Machine Operation
- Production Tracking
- KPI Monitoring
- Alarm Handling
- Recipe and Setpoint Management
Industries
- Packaging
- Printing
- Metals
- Water and wastewater
- HVAC
- Mining
Information that speeds up a quotation
Share what you know. Anything you are unsure of can be marked “not known” — our engineers will help confirm it.
- Brand approval
- Power
- Voltage
- Phase
- I/O count
- Communication
- Environment
- Certification
Need a datasheet?
Add this family to your enquiry list and mention the variant — we will send the relevant technical documents.
Electrical and controls
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Frequently asked questions
What do you need to recommend an HMI?
Tell us which PLC or controller the HMI must connect to and over which protocol, the screen size you prefer, the number of screens and tags, whether alarms and data must be logged, and the mounting location and environment. Mention any need for remote viewing or for multiple user access levels.
Can an HMI replace a SCADA system?
An HMI usually serves one machine or area and focuses on local operation. SCADA covers several machines or sites, with central data collection, historians and reporting. For a single machine an HMI may be enough; for plant-wide monitoring the two are usually used together, with HMIs at the machines and SCADA above them.
Ready to specify human-machine interfaces?
Send the details you have — quantities, sizes, drawings or a part number. Unknowns are fine.