The functions and shape of the I/O device have been modified so that it is fully interchangeable with RIO, the I/O device used with earlier systems, and is fully compatible with the FCS cabinets and terminal blocks used with these earlier systems. Upgrading to the new I/O is simple: just replace the existing I/O module in each FCS cabinet with the new I/O module. There is no need to reconfigure the wiring that connects the I/O to sensors and valves. In addition, software is backward-compatible with earlier models; the HIS graphics and control logic programs developed for these earlier systems can also be used with the new release. Suggested applications are operation, monitoring, and automatic control of plants in process industries such as oil and natural gas, petrochemicals, chemicals, electric power, pulp and paper, pharmaceuticals, foods, iron and steel, and water and wastewater
