Central control ensures software integrity

A centralised database with complete control of release of automation software ensures conformance to latest US Food and Drug Administration requirements

. The Rockwell Software Maintenance Automation Control Centre, RSMACC, is a client server tool enabling manufacturers to detect and record alterations to electronic files, monitor critical computer services and log system events from a central location. PLC software and code is held in a central RSSql data repository, so that only current versions are available, and only individuals with the appropriate authority can gain access to make amendments. Users are authenticated by their Windows network user name and password, and given the appropriate rights to access, read or change electronic master files. Once a day, the system polls all controllers in the network to detect anything that may have been changed. The software provides a simple and cost effective means of recording the information required to comply with FDA Title 21 - Code of Federal Regulations - Part 11 (21CFR11) and other quality assurance systems. In order to comply, drug manufacturers are required to log all changes to production processes and electronic files. Other industries, including food and beverage, are also becoming more highly regulated. Even in sectors where regulatory compliance is not yet required, it is considered to be good manufacturing practice to monitor changes to process critical systems to ensure full product traceability. RSMACC gathers information directly from Rockwell Automation software packages such as RSLogix, RSNetWorx, Entek Emonitor Odyssey and third party applications to manage power and energy data, predict machinery failures and collect warnings, errors and other information for analysis. TS Pointers * RSMACC is a client server tool enabling manufacturers to detect and record alterations to electronic files, monitor critical computer services and log system events from a central location. * It also acts as a central repository of all control software so that only latest versions are available for use and alterations can only be made by those authorised to do so. * The software provides a simple and cost effective means of recording the information required to comply with FDA 21CFR11 Rockwell Automation