SNAP: Streamlined Savings with Automated Network Monitoring Solutions

The Challenge

Procentec identified that manufacturers face challenges in ensuring high uptime for PROFIBUS and PROFINET connected machinery. These manufacturers often rely on highly trained technicians to interpret oscilloscope data, which limits analysis to costly working hours. Recognizing this industry-wide issue, Procentec sought to develop a solution that would transform how industrial networks are monitored and maintained.

The Solution

Procentec developed SNAP (Synthetic Neurologic Analytic Processor), a revolutionary network monitoring solution powered by AI-driven algorithms from ei³. SNAP transforms how industrial networks are maintained by analyzing low-level electrical signals, traffic, and error data, then translating this complex information into easily understandable graphics. This innovation enables quick identification of network faults and latent hardware issues, providing real-time insights for efficient maintenance.

Revolutionizing Network Maintenance

PROFIBUS

In the case of PROFIBUS, SNAP utilizes information collected by PROCENTEC's ComBricks. The ComBricks monitor the network with an oscilloscope-like signal recorder. Those signals reveal network issues but a trained and experienced technician is usually required to interpret them. With SNAP, the data is instead relayed to an AI-based algorithm developed by ei³ to detect, locate, and identify network errors. The outcomes are translated into easily comprehensible graphics, accompanied by straightforward instructions for clients to address and maintain their systems effectively.

PROFINET

Likewise, for PROFINET networks PROCENTEC uses the ATLAS device to record network activity and error messages. This information is also given the AI treatment by ei³ – raw error and traffic messages are interpreted to reveal hidden network faults and latent hardware issues.

Results

• Accelerated Diagnostics: SNAP streamlines the diagnostic process, delivering results in 2 minutes or less compared to traditional methods taking hours.

• Continuous Monitoring: Operating continuously, SNAP ensures ongoing network health at a fraction of a network technician's annual salary.

• Cost-Efficient Solution: As part of Procentec's digitization and automation initiative, SNAP offers a cost-effective solution for preventing costly network outages.

• Rapid Market Adoption: Six months post-launch, SNAP has gained swift market acceptance, with major clients, including a global e-commerce platform, relying on it to monitor extensive network infrastructure across 42 global locations.

• Global Application: SNAP is successfully deployed to monitor warehouse infrastructure with a total of 176 PROFIBUS and 33 PROFINET networks in 42 global locations.

• Unique AI-Based Approach: Leveraging ei³'s unique AI-based approach, SNAP represents a significant advancement in industry 4.0 and innovative network monitoring practices.

About Procentec

Procentec stands at the forefront of innovation in network diagnostics, specializing in advanced solutions for PROFIBUS, PROFINET, Industrial Ethernet, and Ethernet/IP networks. Headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the Procentec Academy has certified thousands of engineers for seamless implementation and maintenance of PROFIBUS and PROFINET networks. Procentec strives to deliver cutting-edge products and services that enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and overall network performance.