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Technical article

How to Select an HMI for Industrial Automation

Operator using a modern industrial HMI touchscreen in an automated factory

A selection checklist covering operator needs, PLC communication, display and cutout, software migration, environment, and security.

An industrial HMI gives operators access to machine status, alarms, settings, trends, and production information. The correct panel must communicate with the controller, fit the enclosure, support the project, and remain readable in its environment.

Define operator tasks

  • Screen count and navigation complexity
  • Alarm history and trends
  • Recipes, batches, and production data
  • User access levels and languages
  • Glove use, viewing distance, and brightness

Confirm controller communication

Match the exact protocol and physical interface used by the PLC, drive, or controller. Ethernet alone does not guarantee compatibility. Document topology, nodes, update rate, addressing, and gateway needs.

Check display and mechanical fit

Compare screen size, resolution, aspect ratio, touch type, bezel, panel cutout, mounting depth, supply voltage, ingress rating, temperature, vibration, and protective coating.

Plan software migration

Confirm engineering software, version, licensing, operating-system support, project source files, runtime backups, memory cards, and migration tools. A successor HMI may require tag and screen conversion or a complete rebuild.

Send the right details

For replacement support, contact US² Automation with the complete HMI code, controller model, project software version, panel cutout, supply, photographs, and quantity.

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