Press Releases

MILWAUKEE, February 19, 2002 - Rockwell Automation has introduced Rockwell Software RSTestStand™, a cost-saving software package that streamlines the development and deployment of automation applications by allowing engineers to interactively develop and test control systems directly from their desktop.

RSTestStand enables control system developers to create a wide range of virtual control system scenarios that can be used to test design configurations and programs. Versatile enough to simulate both process and discrete operations, the software greatly reduces delays associated with startup and installation by verifying appropriate control system design in an offline environment.

"In an era when fast ROI and reduced downtime are critical, the industry needs a reliable tool for pre-testing control systems before beginning installation and startup," said Jim Coburn, director of control simulation products, Rockwell Automation. "Since RSTestStand eliminates the need to physically wire devices to run control scenarios, manufacturers can speed operational deployment while cutting installation costs."

RSTestStand supports Allen-Bradley PLCs and OPC 2.0-compliant devices. It includes customizable application libraries for discrete and continuous loops, enabling engineers to standardize or reuse elements from previous applications. Additionally, RSTestStand features a virtual operator console for interacting with a control system. The program's visualization capabilities are also useful in helping engineers understand the unpredictable relationships between control elements. RSTestStand's sophisticated user interface allows engineers to check for errors and determine system response to out of range conditions.

In addition to providing desktop control system testing, RSTestStand can train operators and technicians in a virtual environment. This approach doesn't tie up expensive equipment on the plant floor, and provides a cost-effective and system-safe way to build operational understanding prior to installation. RSTestStand supports Windows NT and 2000 platforms and requires at least 128 MB of RAM and 15 MB of free disk space.

Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK) is a world-leading provider of industrial automation power, control and information solutions that help customers meet their manufacturing productivity objectives. The company brings together leading brands in industrial automation for Complete Automation solutions, including Allen-Bradley® controls and engineered services and Rockwell Software® factory management software, Dodge® mechanical power transmission products, and Reliance Electric® motors and drives. The company also is a leading provider of contact management technologies and applications that help companies more efficiently manage interaction with their own customers. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., USA, the company employs approximately 23,000 people at more than 450 locations serving customers in more than 80 countries.

Rockwell Software is the leading brand of manufacturing systems software, providing applications for factory automation, data acquisition and integration, manufacturing operations performance improvement and analysis, and shop floor scheduling. For more specific information about Rockwell Automation and its Rockwell Software products and services, go to http://www.software.rockwell.com. To order products at our online store, visit http://www.rockwellautomation.com/rsstore.

NOTE TO EDITORS: If you would like this information in electronic format (either disk or e-mail), please contact either of the individuals at the top of this release.

All reader inquiries should be directed to the Rockwell Automation Response Center, Dept. 1478. 10701 Hampshire Avenue South, Bloomington, Minn., 55438, 800.223.5354, Ext. 1513.

Complete Automation, Dodge, Reliance Electric, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Software and RSTestStand are trademarks of Rockwell Automation.

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