The upgrade will replace obsolete hardware including the ANK31 interface, KT98 control modules, the DC IO and drag roller controls, as well as the problematic ArcNet communications. Harland Simon will once again utilize off-the-shelf Allen-Bradley PLC hardware and Ethernet communications, which will result in a stable, consistent platform (using non-proprietary hardware) across the Desert Sun's press to reduce on-going cost and minimize risk to production. The project is scheduled to begin next month with the press remaining in production throughout the process.

This new contract follows the successful project at this facility back in 2014, which saw the upgrade of the frontend EAE press controls.

John Staiano, Managing Director – Americas for Harland Simon commented, “This new project is testimony to the Desert Sun's confidence in our upgrade methodology and in our ability to deliver a cost-effective solution without disrupting production. We are looking forward to working with the team in Palm Springs again."

Harland Simon’s upgrade methodology ensures that throughout the project The Desert Sun's existing controls will remain operational until the new system is fully tested in order to remove any risk to production. Costs are minimized by retaining elements of the old system that can still be used and supported.

Furthermore, additional diagnostic software will be available at the Harland Simon supplied maintenance PC and P6000 control consoles, previously installed in 2014, which will streamline fault-finding procedures and enables 24/7 remote diagnostic and support via a VPN line.

About Harland Simon
Harland Simon is one of the world’s leading suppliers of newspaper press control and management systems. With roots going back to 1915, the company has been providing innovative, user-friendly and reliable solutions to the newspaper printing industry for over thirty years, from ‘turnkey’ systems for new presses to cost effective upgrades on existing presses.

Utilizing the benefits of industry-standard hardware and software platforms, Harland Simon offers a complete range of products and solutions including press drives and controls as well as associated computer management systems and production tools. It’s an approach that Harland Simon has used on many occasions previously on systems supplied by Goss, Rockwell Automation, KBA, Honeywell, EAE and manroland to improve performance, minimize waste and maximize production quality whilst keeping presses in daily production.

(http://www.harlandsimon.com)