Software Toolbox has announced the release of Top Server Version 5.8, its OPC and native HMI device connectivity software application offering more than 125 different device drivers. Powered by Kepware, Top Server 5.8 delivers new drivers and enhancements to the main server, and more than 24 drivers and plug-ins. The software adds the new ControlLogix Slave Ethernet driver to the Allen-Bradley Suite of communications drivers. The ControlLogix Slave Ethernet driver provides an alternative method of connectivity for Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PLCs, simulating a ControlLogix 5000 series rack containing a single EtherNet/IP module and up to 16 ControlLogix CPUs. Rather than Top Server sending poll requests for data to ControlLogix PLCs, those ControlLogix controllers can now be configured to automatically send value updates, which is a very efficient method of communications. Top Server 5.8 also provides updated firmware revision support for the ControlLogix Ethernet driver. TOP Server now supports ControlLogix firmware revisions up through Revision 20, ensuring compatibility with the latest ControlLogix CPUs and programming functionality. Additional improvements include enhanced user management, improved communications diagnostics, updated event log management, and Wonderware SuiteLink interface updates. Top Server 5.8 is available for download or as an upgrade for users with active support and maintenance contracts at http://www.toolboxopc.com.
