For years, I have relied on WIN-911 Alarm Notification software in conjunction with SCADA systems like Wonderware and FactoryTalk. However, WIN-911 underwent a significant overhaul a couple of years back. While the software used to be straightforward and reliable, I have encountered a slew of issues with it since the update. It inexplicably stops functioning, requiring users to restart the application's services to restore functionality. I have implemented the updated version at four separate sites, and they all suffer from the same inconsistency. Are others grappling with similar challenges with WIN-911's revamped software?
I understand your concerns. The previous versions of V7 were a bit cumbersome but still functional. There have been two major revisions recently, with the latest release just launched, although I have yet to give it a try. I'm currently using version 4.19.17, which is approximately 2 years old. One of the main issues I encountered was the user permissions required to operate the app. User login information was scattered throughout the system, making it challenging to update when my password expired on the IT-owned device (which I don't recommend installing on). It took quite some time to obtain a service account for the app and resolve the issues through lengthy phone calls with the support team. Now that everything is running smoothly, I am contemplating upgrading to the latest version, which supposedly addresses the issues I faced. However, I am hesitant to proceed with the update at this time. The situation reminds me of the complications often associated with Allen Bradley Panelview Plus systems, where enterprise IT professionals are tasked with programming industrial software without proper training. One can only hope that lessons have been learned from past experiences.
I am currently running the same version as you, with two machines running on version 4.19.24 and the others on slightly earlier versions. I've also discovered the importance of assigning WIN-911 its own user account through trial and error. Are you also using Windows 10? Can you elaborate on the specific issues the new version is expected to address?
Are you suggesting that I should feel grateful for choosing TopView over Win-911?
I am hesitant to tarnish the reputation of WIN-911, but I am experiencing some issues that others might be facing as well. Although I am unfamiliar with Topview, I am curious to know if it functions similarly to WIN-911 or SCADAlarm. Can Topview link to SCADA databases and enable the transmission of SMS text messages, emails, or even notifications to a mobile application?
In a recent discussion, Tom Mac expressed his thoughts on WIN-911 and TopView software. He highlighted his preference for TopView, a direct competitor to WIN-911, which he chose after evaluating both options about five years ago. TopView offers connectivity to SCADA databases, as well as the ability to send SMS text messages, emails, and even notifications through a mobile app. While TopView has additional costs associated with its phone app, Tom Mac found that using it for email notifications was sufficient for their needs. They initially considered SMS texting but decided against it due to the complexities involved in setting up a dedicated phone modem. Management reasoned that email notifications were efficient since receiving an email already triggers an audible alert on a mobile device. Although configuring TopView initially posed some challenges, Tom Mac found the software to be user-friendly and intuitive. He delegated the setup process to their IT department, who received excellent support from TopView's tech team. Overall, Tom Mac expressed satisfaction with the software's ability to configure alarm notifications, manage contacts, and set alarm limits according to their requirements.
I can completely understand your frustration. My team has been dealing with similar issues post the update. What we found is that often the issues arise due to compatibility problems with legacy systems that aren't adequately equipped to handle the revamped WIN-911 software. We did find some success in troubleshooting these problems by systematically going over the network requirements for WIN-911 and ensuring that everything is up-to-date system wise. That said, it's definitely not the streamlined experience we previously had, and hopefully the developers take this feedback and provide a more stable update in the future.
I totally understand your frustration and can relate to the issues you're facing. It seems the update has diminished the reliability of WIN-911 software. I would suggest reaching out to their technical support or checking out tutorials online on how to fix these issues. Also, it might be beneficial to look into alternative software just in case this problem continues. Sometimes a fresh approach is necessary when old reliable tools don't perform as expected. It's situations like these that can push us toward finding improved solutions that we may not have otherwise considered.
Absolutely, I can really relate to your frustration. The update of WIN-911 did indeed change a lot of things and the application has become quite finicky. What has helped me to some extent is more frequent maintenance, especially checking the logs daily to catch any irregularities before they escalate. Also, I've found that getting in touch with their customer support can be quite helpful, although it can take some time. They seem to be aware of these issues and are usually willing to assist. You're certainly not alone on this one!
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Answer: Answer: Users have reported issues such as the software inexplicably stopping functioning, requiring manual restart of application services to restore functionality.
Answer: Answer: Users have experienced a decrease in reliability and consistency of the software following the update.
Answer: Answer: Yes, the user mentioned implementing the updated version at four separate sites, all of which encountered the same inconsistencies and challenges with the software.
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