Selecting and Applying Mini-Computer Control for Textile Industry Applications

Some control problems in textile processes require or can justify a control computer in lieu of conventional type of control. How then should the typical user approach the selection and implementation of a system. The user must evaluate 1) buying the mini and applying it himself, 2) buying the mini from one vendor and system application from a ``software house,'' and 3) buying the computer and programming as an engineered control system from one vendor at what may initially appear to be a premium price. He will soon learn that the ``mini'' price tag balloons as he decides to actually do something with the basic box. Considerations of hardware, control oriented software and process-computer interface are discussed. Flexibility, reliability, and expandability of hardware and software as well as vendor experience and services offered are key features which should be evaluated as related to user's current needs.