To the OpenBSI User Community:
This letter announces new and exciting developments in the OpenBSI software product line, including some significant changes to OpenBSI support and licensing practices. Please take a few minutes to review the items addressed in this letter, as they affect how you will place and license OpenBSI orders in the future.
1) OpenBSI Version 5.8 Release
We are pleased to announce the release of OpenBSI Version 5.8. OpenBSI Version 5.8 will support newer MicroSoft®
Windows
® operating systems, including Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows Server 2008 platforms. OpenBSI Version 5.8 also includes a new version of ControlWave
® Designer. The
What’s New in OpenBSI 5.8? document presents a complete list of OpenBSI enhancements for this release.
2) ObjectServer Replaces OPC Server
ObjectServer is a proven product that enhances the performance and functionality of the OPC Server offering in the Remote Automation Solutions’ price book. ObjectServer was launched approximately two years ago and was meant to supercede the legacy OPCServer product. The OPCServer is now in the obsolecense phase and will not be included in the OpenBSI Version 5.8 installation. We will continue to support customers wishing to continue use of their OPCServer and retain their incumbent OpenBSI platform. Migration of OPCServer to ObjectServer has been designed to minimize disruption and downtime. Please review the ObjectServer Migration Guide and the ObjectServer Features Brochure for more information on the new features and the migration process.
Installing OpenBSI Version 5.8 will remove the OPCServer from your
platform and require you to use ObjectServer to maintain
OPC capabilities. If you wish to retain the OPCServer, do not upgrade to
OpenBSI Version 5.8.
3) OpenBSI Upgrade and Distribution Procedures
We've modified the distribution process for OpenBSI software upgrades. The most significant modification requires customers to purchase an OpenBSI Software Support contract and download software through SupportNet™
to receive new OpenBSI releases. Please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document for more information on the OpenBSI upgrade and distribution procedures, and the SupportNet Brochure for more information about our online support services.
We understand that you may require support or have inquiries pertaining to OpenBSI Version 5.8, the replacement of OPCServer with ObjectServer, and the modification to OpenBSI upgrade and distribution procedures. Please contact a member of our Customer Services Team at (800) 395-5497 and they will assist you with any questions or concerns you may have pertaining to these matters.
If you are interested in purchasing OpenBSI or ObjectServer, please contact your local sales representative or find a local sales representative by visiting our website at www.EmersonProcess.com/Remote.
Thank you for reviewing this letter and the referenced documents. Your feedback drives our dedication to the continuous improvement of products and services. Please contact us with any questions, concerns, or ideas you have on how we can serve you better.
Jonathan Weidenbaum
Director, SCADA Marketing
