Costly to develop in terms of complex hardware and software programming.

Often are comprised of various proprietary systems that increase maintenance costs and limit expandability.

Have problems delivering accurate data in a timely fashion.

The open nature of these systems pose enterprise-wide security and virus threats.

Lower cost to buy, install and maintain than patchwork systems.

Eliminates a tier of temporary data storage compared to HMI or PC configurations.

Easier to configure and maintain than multi-tier systems.

Scalable to accommodate expansions.

Provide timely and accurate bi-directional data.

Proven reliability in a 24/7/365 environment.

Not susceptible to PC-type viruses.

Operation cannot be changed or altered on the factory floor for greater security.

Virtually maintenance-free.