ABB Powers Up Symphony Plus DCS with Automation Extended

[Erkan Teskancan]

## ABB Powers Up ABB Symphony Plus DCS with Automation Extended

ABB has announced the SPR2025 version for its Symphony Plus distributed control system (DCS) to support phased modernization in the process and energy industries. The new version offers significant improvements such as OPC UA connectivity, virtualization support, and separation in the control architecture.

In continuous production sectors such as power generation, water treatment, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and paper, system updates can be performed without requiring a process shutdown. This prevents negative impacts on production efficiency and costs.

### Online Upgrade and Lifecycle Management with SPR2025 Version

• Thanks to version synchronization and online upgrade capabilities, updates can be performed without shutting down the entire system.
• The latest Microsoft operating systems and various virtualization platforms are supported, allowing use in hybrid IT/OT environments.
• Automatic conversion tools from legacy Harmony Rack systems to the new SDe Series architecture are available, preserving engineering investments and facilitating transitions.

### Standard OPC UA and Ethernet-Based Connectivity

• Secure and standard data exchange is provided with system-wide OPC UA communication.
• Ethernet-based infrastructure and Field Device Integration (FDI) support enable seamless integration of smart field devices.
• Field Information Manager (FIM) supports device configuration, diagnostics, and maintenance processes, shortening commissioning times.
• Communication architectures are optimized and system footprint is reduced with the additional Virtual Plant Network Interface.

### Separation of Control and Digital Environments

• The Automation Extended function separates control processes from digital and analytical applications.
• Performance monitoring, predictive analytics, and AI-based decision support tools can be used without compromising control system stability.
• This architecture reduces the risks associated with integrating new digital applications into older control systems.

### Supporting Seamless Modernization

• SPR2025 upgrades support a gradual and phased modernization approach.
• The need for planned shutdowns is reduced, ensuring production continuity.
• Enhanced connectivity and lifecycle management facilitate the integration of innovative technologies into existing systems.

The ABB Symphony Plus SPR2025 version allows businesses to gradually adopt next-generation automation and digitalization solutions while preserving their existing infrastructure.