FLEX Explorer vs SIMATIC Unified Air

FLEX Explorer OPC UA Client features: - Connect to any OPC UA Servers - Browse the address space - Read and Write values - Monitor data changes and attributes FLEX Explorer OPC UA Client is built using the Matrikon Flex OPC UA Client SDK, which simplifies developing UA Client applications for iOS.

SIMATIC Unified Air 3.0 introduces Access Key Authentication, redefining secure and flexible access to SIMATIC HMI Unified Comfort Panels for modern industrial service scenarios. Secure access without accounts or passwords Access Key Authentication enables temporary, time-limited access to panels without creating user accounts, registering mobile devices, or sharing passwords. Engineers generate cryptographically signed Access Keys that grant precisely defined access and expire automatically. Built for service and maintenance Unified Air 3.0 is designed for environments with external technicians, contractors, and rotating service teams. Access is delivered quickly, securely, and entirely offline via Bluetooth. Key features • Token-based Access Key authentication • No UMC user accounts required for service staff • No mobile device pre-registration at the panel • Time-limited access with automatic expiration • Role-based authorization using existing UMC alias roles • Seamless authentication via Bluetooth • No cloud dependency, no central server required Simple workflow Engineers configure roles in TIA Portal, generate Access Keys, and securely share them with technicians. Technicians import the key into Unified Air and authenticate silently to nearby panels. Included Unified Air capabilities • Device information • Screenshot capture • Report generation Compatibility Access Key Authentication is supported on SIMATIC HMI Unified Comfort Panels with V21 Update 1. SIMATIC Unified Air 3.0 brings controlled access where flexibility, security, and reliability matter most.