ABB said the program is an evolution of its distributed control systems. Operators can use established ABB systems while also introducing new technologies, making the modernization structured and low risk while preserving continuity. 

“In industries we serve — many operating large and complex infrastructures that deliver essential resources — our customers rely on modernization without disruption. Automation Extended delivers exactly that: bringing future-ready capabilities into the systems they know and trust, with security and interoperability at the core,” said Peter Terwiesch, president of ABB’s automation business area. 

The program features two environments based on separation of concerns principles. These include the control environment and the digital environment. The control environment is a software domain which ensures reliable control for processes. The digital environment is connected to the control layer to enable applications, edge intelligence and real-time analytics, the company said. 

ABB said access to Automation Extended will come with the next releases of ABB Ability™ System 800xA®, ABB Ability™ Symphony® Plus and ABB Freelance process automation systems.