Human-Machine Interface (HMI) FAQs
Do you want to know more about Maple Systems HMIs? Browse our Human-Machine Interface (HMI) FAQs for answers to common questions our customers ask before buying a new device.
Compatibility
Can this HMI communicate with my PLC?
Maple Systems cMT HMIs support over +400 PLC and controller communication protocols, allowing our HMIs to communicate with most common devices. Our cMT HMIs also support protocols such as Modbus TCP/IP or Modbus RTU, opening them up for use with a wide range of devices.
What kind of communication ports are available on your cMT HMIs?
Related Links Product • cMT/HMI Software Downloads & Upgrades • EBPro Manuals & Guides • cMT Quick Start Guide • EBPro Programming Manual • EBPro Quick Start Guide Tech Notes See our list of Tech Notes Solutions See our Case Studies & Solutions See our SCADA Systems Design Guide Controller Information Sheets See our list of Controller Information Sheets Communication Cables See our list of Communication Cables Videos See our list of Training Videos
I have pre-existing tags that I use for device communication. Can I import my tags into EBPro?
Yes. EBPro makes it easy to import your device tags, with the entire process requiring only a few clicks in most cases
I need to use an IP camera or other peripherals in my project. Do Maple Systems HMIs support these devices?
Maple Systems HMIs are compatible with a wide range of peripheral devices such as printers, barcode scanners, cameras, keyboards, mice, flash storage drives, and more. For projects using multiple USB devices at once, a USB hub can expand a single USB port into many, allowing several devices to connect simultaneously.
Can I expand the HMI’s storage memory capacity?
Yes. Maple HMIs support storage expansion through external HDD, USB flash drive, or SD card, depending on the HMI model.
Is Wi-Fi built into Maple Systems High-Performance cMT or Advanced HMIs?
We have both Advanced HMIs and High-Performance cMT/HMIs models with built-in Wi-Fi functionality. The Wi-Fi models can connect directly to a Wireless Network when paired with our M02 Wi-Fi module.
What is a cMT Gateway?
Maple Systems cMT Gateway products are designed to bridge existing control systems, including legacy systems, to a SCADA management network. The cMT Gateway models support a variety of communication protocols that can connect with over 400 brands of controllers and transmit data from the controller to a SCADA or ERP… Continue ReadingSoftware
I’ve never used EBPro before. How long will it take me to learn how to program my HMI?
The free EBPro software design maximizes functionality while maintaining user-friendliness. In many cases our customers are able to get up to speed and create their first project within 24 hours.
What are some “Best Practices” when for using EBPro and Maple Systems HMIs?
When starting with EBPro, we recommend that you implement these Best Practices: Store your project files on your local hard drive. If you must store your projects on a networked drive, copy the project to your local hard drive, make your changes, then copy it back to the networked drive.… Continue ReadingCan I automatically back up my projects in EBPro?
Yes. To turn automatic backup on in EBPro, click on the File menu and select Preferences. On the Project tab, check the “Generate backup of project file before save” option.
Can I simulate my project to test functionality before I buy?
Yes. The EBPro software includes simulation modes that you can use to test every aspect of your project before buying anything. There are two types of simulation modes available in EBPro: online and offline.
Can I access my HMI from a remote network location?
Related Links Product • cMT/HMI Software Downloads & Upgrades • EBPro Manuals & Guides • cMT Quick Start Guide • EBPro Programming Manual • EBPro Quick Start Guide Tech Notes See our list of Tech Notes Solutions See our Case Studies & Solutions See our SCADA Systems Design Guide Controller Information Sheets See our list of Controller Information Sheets Communication Cables See our list of Communication Cables Videos See our list of Training Videos
Can Maple Systems HMIs store and use recipe data?
Maple HMIs reserve retentive memory specifically for recipe data, ensuring that it stays in memory after power-cycling the unit.
Does your HMI software handle data collection and logging?
Yes. EBPro includes robust, customizable data collection and logging through it’s Data Sampling features
Can I use a Maple HMI to monitor events and trigger alarms?
The Event/Alarm log in EBPro enables users to monitor registers in real-time and display notifications when a malfunction occurs. When an alarm triggers, the system can automatically notify interested parties via email or SMS text message.
Do Maple Systems HMIs support file transfer through FTP?
Yes. Maple Systems Basic HMI, Advanced HMI and cMT devices come with a built-in FTP server that allows you to remotely access data logs, event files, and recipe data via FTP (file transfer protocol).
What EBPro Security features are available for a cMT HMI?
You can configure separate passwords for uploading, downloading, and decompiling a project file. You can also create user accounts in your EBPro project to limit access to specific screens and objects according to the security level assigned to each person.
Pricing
What is the upfront cost of buying an HMI?
Maple Systems offers HMI models at a range of price points that will fit into almost any budget. Our Basic HMI Series starts at $345, and includes the EBPro configuration software and full access to our technical support without any additional charge. Maple Systems HMIs can provide the level of… Continue ReadingDo I need to pay an additional license fee to activate features on my HMI?
The vast majority of features in EBPro do not need additional licensing, but a few situations may require a license fee to activate specific functions. For features like our built-in CODESYS runtime, OPC/UA messaging, or the EasyAccess 2.0 VPN service, users must pay a one-time activation fee to enable these functions on the HMI.
Are there any ongoing licensing costs or subscription charges I should be aware of?
No. Buying a Maple Systems HMI gives you access to everything you need to program, connect, and run your device without any subscriptions or ongoing license fees
Design
I have specific size requirements. Do you have an HMI that will work for me?
Our HMIs with built-in touchscreens are available with display sizes of 4.3”, 7”, 9.7”, 10”, 12”, 15”, or 15.6”, & 21.5″, as well has headless HMIs that can connect to an external monitor of your choice, including big screen TVs
Do you have Dimensional drawings?
Yes. If available, dimensional drawings are available on the individual product page.Can this HMI withstand the conditions that exist at my worksite?
Maple HMIs are certified to operate in some of the most challenging environmental conditions in the world. With models certified by UL, IP, NEMA, RoHS, CE, ATEx, C1D2, and more, there is a Maple HMI for nearly any situation or environment
Support
Where can I find support documentation for my HMI?
Our Support Center contains numerous resources that can help you quickly learn what you need to know about setting up and programming Maple Systems HMIs.
Does Maple Systems offer technical support?
Maple Systems offers free US-based technical support. If you can’t find what you need in our Support Center, you can contact our technicians by phone or email.