GE Fanuc adopts Microsoft visual studio tools

GE Fanuc Automation has announced plans to adopt Microsoft Visual Studio Tools for Applications as its extensibility language for the Proficy suite of production management software.

GE Fanuc Automation has announced plans to adopt Microsoft Visual Studio Tools for Applications as its extensibility language for the company's Proficy suite of production management software applications in future releases.

The decision will provide current and future users with powerful extensions to Proficy's capabilities while also helping them to automate the configuration and operation of Proficy-based systems.

GE Fanuc's Proficy allows customers to continuously improve plant performance and agility with a suite of software solutions that provide real-time production management, an open and layered approach based on standards that preserves existing investments, and unique role-based views into operations that enable accurate and timely decision making.

Adopting the next generation Microsoft scripting engine with Proficy promises to deliver the full power of.NET Framework-based programming to applications, allowing GE Fanuc to provide manufacturing and processing customers with leading-edge technologies that further leverage the strength of its product solutions.

"Microsoft is pleased that GE Fanuc will adopt Visual Studio Tools for Applications and provide its customers with a secure and managed application customisation environment," said KD Hallman, general manager of Visual Studio Tools for Applications at Microsoft Corp.

"GE Fanuc's Proficy suite, together with Visual Studio Tools for Applications, will enable end users of all skill levels to customise and extend applications for their specific needs." The first product that will take advantage of Microsoft Visual Studio Tools for Applications will be the Proficy Platform, which is scheduled for release in 2006.

In addition to its core analytic Enterprise Manufacturing Intelligence (EMI) and execution (MES) capabilities, the Proficy Platform will include packaged integration with enterprise systems and HMI/SCADA applications, as well as provide an extended library of tools and published APIs for third-party development of applications.

* About GE Fanuc Automation Solutions - GE Fanuc Automation Solutions, a joint venture between GE and FANUC of Japan, delivers automation hardware and software designed to help users reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance profitability.

With solutions and services catering to virtually every industrial segment, GE Fanuc Automation Solutions provides a diverse array of capabilities and products, including controllers, embedded systems, a comprehensive suite of manufacturing software, motion control, operator interfaces and industrial computers.

The company's European headquarters are at GE Fanuc Automation Solutions Europe in Luxembourg.

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