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Guide

How to select an HMI for your machine

A practical HMI selection checklist: screen size, touch type, communication drivers, environment, memory and software licence.

  • 5 min read
  • Updated

The selection checklist

  1. Communication: confirm the HMI supports your PLC's protocol and has the right ports (Ethernet, serial, fieldbus).
  2. Screen: choose the size and resolution for the number of tags, trends and alarms to display. Small panels suit a few values; larger panels suit multi-page machines.
  3. Touch technology: resistive works with gloves, capacitive offers a smoother feel. Check what your operators wear.
  4. Environment: check the front-panel rating (such as IP65), operating temperature, vibration and any washdown or chemical exposure.
  5. Memory and features: size program memory for screens, alarm history, recipes, trends and data logging.
  6. Software: confirm the engineering tool, version and licence needed to program the panel.
  7. Extras: consider remote access, web server, USB or SD card, and a spare panel for critical machines.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing a panel without a driver for the installed PLC.
  • Forgetting that the cut-out size must match the existing panel when replacing an HMI.
  • Ignoring the engineering software version required for a new panel.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any HMI with any PLC?

Only if the HMI has a driver for that PLC's protocol. Most HMIs support popular protocols, but always check the compatibility list.

What does an IP65 front mean?

It means the front of the panel is dust-tight and protected against water jets when installed correctly. The back of the panel stays inside the cabinet.

Should I replace an HMI with the same cut-out size?

Yes, when possible. Matching the cut-out and mounting avoids modifying the panel door.

This guide is general engineering guidance. Always confirm part-specific details, ratings and compatibility against the manufacturer’s datasheet. We confirm price, stock and specifications for the exact part in a written quotation. See the glossary for the terms used here.