Tech

How do you modernize legacy applications?

Published

3 years ago

June 7, 2021

Changing requirements is the main cause of software “senile diseases”. When the requirements change, the programs no longer handle the assigned tasks correctly. And the need of legacy modernization becomes obvious.

How do you modernize legacy applications

What specific requirements are we talking about?

Changes in legislation, according to which it is necessary to keep records or settlements in a different way.

Load requirements. For example, initially it was assumed that no more than 10 users would use the program at the same time, but later it became necessary for 100, 200, 500 or more people to work.

Fault tolerance requirements. There are modules, the temporary failure of which is not critical, for example, the storage of document templates. But if we are talking about an online store or a banking system, a refusal for an hour is a direct loss, such a situation is unacceptable.

New requirements for user access to the system. For example, there was a need to enter the program via mobile devices, etc.

If the requirements have not changed over the years, the software product can work correctly for a very long time.

New tasks on old rails

Most often, this point follows from the previous one. If a software product has been developed for a long time, but new requirements have appeared from the outside (legislation) or from within (an increase in the number of users, principles of data storage), it can be quite difficult to modify the software for them.

In this case, the obsolescence of software is manifested in the fact that it neither in terms of architecture nor technologically meets new, changed tasks. It is often easier to completely rewrite a program than to try to maintain a legacy version.

Why is this happening? After all, the client invested money in the development and hoped for a long-term use of the product. There can be two reasons:

An incompetent developer who did not take into account the possibility of scaling and supplementing the software package.

Initially short-sighted or incorrectly drafted TOR.

Sometimes it is difficult to explain to the customer that the program is more literate, easier and cheaper to rewrite than to understand the logic and modify the software, which, in fact, ordered a long life.

Rising cost of outdated software

It becomes more expensive for business to use outdated software every day

Maintenance of an outdated system is exponentially more expensive, and global software upgrades are not so much a matter of desire as an urgent and economically justified need.

Lack of software support

There is another case of software obsolescence: when a software module is used that is no longer supported by the developer and, due to an OS update, it stops working. This is a rare case, but it does happen. And if the module is really relevant and necessary, it should be upgraded to be compatible with the new software version.

What does obsolescence lead to?

One of the main goals of a business is to reduce costs. When it comes to software, there are:

Development cost.
Cost of ownership (how much maintenance and rework costs).
License fees, if the software is purchased.

In the event of obsolescence of software, that is, when new tasks appear, the cost of ownership begins to seriously increase. Accordingly, if the requirements do not change, then this does not happen.

But there is another significant problem – the outdated documentation. It often happens that when requirements change and software is revised, no one makes changes to the program documentation. As a result, it does not correspond to reality, and this is also a reason to start modernization.

Software modernization

Frequent occurrence of errors is the first sign of the need for software modernization

So, it is necessary to prepare a technical specification for software modernization if:

you need to improve the functionality of the system for new business requirements;
outdated development is used, the number of errors has increased;
the load on the software has increased significantly;
the software does not meet the requirements for performance and fault tolerance;
there are significant architectural flaws that negatively affect the flexibility of the system;
the software is not scalable enough;
there is no support from the system developer;
there is no control over the data due to the absence / incompleteness of the documentation for the software used;
it became necessary to use more modern forms.

Solutions for the problem of obsolescence of software products

There are several ways to solve the problem of outdated software. Depending on the current business need, you can do the following:

buy ready-made software, sold under a license, with further customization for existing business processes;
independently upgrade outdated software;
to outsource to a team of professional developers.

Let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages of such solutions.

Advantages and disadvantages of boxed software

Boxed software – a ready-made solution from the developer

Boxed software is a quick start, but it can be difficult to customize it for yourself

When a boxed solution is purchased, its modification for the needs of the business and support is shifted to the shoulders of the vendor company.

Benefits:

Fast installation.
Most often, parametric adjustment of the main functions is assumed on their own.
Updated regularly by the developer.

Disadvantages:

The specifics of the business are not taken into account (for customization, you need to negotiate separately with the vendor).
The software is not scalable.
The impossibility of creating a unique product, that is, such a solution is only suitable for typical business operations, it will not be possible to take into account specific points.

Advantages and disadvantages of self-upgrading software

If the software has know-how, there are no suitable offers on the market, or a boxed solution is very expensive, it is better to upgrade your own software.

When a company has its own IT department – director, architect and developers – this task can be assigned to them.

Benefits

The advantages of upgrading software on your own seem undeniable: safety, low cost, quality and control over the process. Is it so?
The costs of creating your own IT department, finding qualified developers are costs. If developer services are not needed all the time, there is no need to maintain an entire IT department. Self-upgrading software can be many times more expensive than hiring an outsourcing company.
Security: no one can get any critical information, because such information is not stored in databases. Another point is its use: the leak itself is terrible only because of the possibility of using information against you. And since critical information is not stored in databases, there is little point in fearing a leak (but this does not mean that you need to forget about security).
Quality: it is not uncommon for staff members to “screw up” and “screw up” only what is “burning” instead of a major software upgrade.
Process control: there is no clear explanation of how outsourcing work control differs from in-house development. Of course, a permanent team is needed to interact with an outsourcer, but the same is required in the second case. Otherwise, control becomes nothing more than a fiction.

Related Topics:How do you modernize legacy applications?

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BLDC Motor Controller Design Principles

Published

19 hours ago

April 25, 2024

sylvia J

BLDC (Brushless DC) motors are widely used in various applications, from consumer electronics and appliances to automotive and industrial systems. To control the speed and direction of BLDC motors, specialized motor controllers are required. At Integra Sources, we specialize in designing custom BLDC motor controllers that meet the unique requirements of our clients’ applications.

What Is a BLDC Motor Controller?

A BLDC motor controller is an electronic device that controls the speed, direction, and torque of a BLDC motor. It consists of a microcontroller or digital signal processor (DSP) that generates the control signals for the motor’s power electronics, including the power transistors or MOSFETs. The BLDC motor controller also includes feedback sensors, such as Hall effect sensors or encoders, to provide feedback on the motor’s speed and position.

Key Design Principles of BLDC Motor Controllers

Sensorless vs. Sensored Control: BLDC motor controllers can be classified into two main types: sensorless and sensored control. Sensorless control relies on the back electromotive force (EMF) of the motor to determine its speed and position, while sensored control uses external sensors, such as Hall effect sensors or encoders, to provide feedback. The choice between sensorless and sensored control depends on factors such as cost, complexity, and performance requirements.
Commutation Techniques: BLDC motors require electronic commutation to control the timing of the motor’s winding currents. There are several commutation techniques used in BLDC motor controllers, including trapezoidal (six-step) commutation and sinusoidal (vector) commutation. Trapezoidal commutation is simpler and more cost-effective but may result in lower efficiency and torque ripple. Sinusoidal commutation provides smoother and more efficient motor operation but requires more complex control algorithms and hardware.
Control Algorithms: The control algorithm used in a BLDC motor controller determines how the motor’s speed and torque are regulated. Common control algorithms include open-loop control, closed-loop speed control, and closed-loop position control. Open-loop control provides basic speed regulation but does not account for variations in load or motor parameters. Closed-loop control algorithms use feedback from sensors to adjust the motor’s speed and position in real time, providing precise control over the motor’s operation.
PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) Techniques: PWM is used to control the average voltage applied to the motor windings, thereby controlling bldc motors. There are several PWM techniques used in BLDC motor controllers, including six-step commutation PWM, sinusoidal PWM, and space vector modulation (SVM). These techniques vary in complexity and efficiency, with space vector modulation offering the highest level of control and efficiency.
Overcurrent and Overtemperature Protection: BLDC motor controllers must include protection features to prevent damage to the motor and controller in the event of faults or overloads. Overcurrent protection limits the motor’s current to prevent overheating and damage to the motor windings. Overtemperature protection monitors the temperature of the motor and controller and reduces the motor’s power if it exceeds a safe threshold.

Integra Sources’ BLDC Motor Controller Design Services

At Integra Sources, we offer comprehensive BLDC motor controller design services to help businesses create custom motor control solutions for their applications. Our services include:

Requirements Analysis: We work closely with our clients to understand their specific requirements and develop a detailed specification for the BLDC motor controller.
Hardware Design: Our experienced hardware engineers design the circuitry and PCB layout for the BLDC motor controller, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Firmware Development: Our software engineers develop the control algorithms and firmware for the BLDC motor controller, including PWM control, commutation algorithms, and protection features.
Testing and Validation: We provide rigorous testing and validation services to ensure that the BLDC motor controller meets our clients’ performance and reliability requirements.
Certification Support: We assist our clients with obtaining the necessary certifications for their BLDC motor controller, including CE, UL, and RoHS compliance.

Conclusion

BLDC motor controllers play a critical role in controlling the speed, direction, and torque of BLDC motors in a wide range of applications. At Integra Sources, we specialize in designing custom BLDC motor controllers that meet the unique requirements of our clients’ applications. Contact us today to learn more about our BLDC motor controller design services and how we can help you bring your motor control project to life.

Tech

Understanding Solar Energy and Photovoltaics: A Simple Guide

Published

3 months ago

January 26, 2024

sylvia J

Understanding Solar Energy and Photovoltaics

“Have you ever wondered about the power of the sun? The sun gives us light and warmth every day. This energy from the sun is called solar energy. It’s a big part of our lives, even though we might not think about it much. Solar energy is not just about staying warm or seeing during the day. It can also be turned into electricity to power things in our homes and schools. This is where photovoltaics come in. Photovoltaics is a fancy word, but it simply means making electricity from sunlight. It’s a smart way to use the sun’s energy. In this guide, we’ll explore how solar energy and photovoltaics work, and why they’re so important for our planet and future. Let’s start this exciting journey into the world of solar energy!”

What is Solar Energy?

Solar energy is like a gift from the sun. When the sun shines, it sends light and heat to Earth. This light and heat is what we call solar energy. It’s very powerful and has been around since the beginning of time. Interestingly, solar energy is behind many things we see and do. For example, it helps plants grow, and we feel its warmth on a sunny day.

Moreover, solar energy is not just for plants and warmth. It can do more. It can be used to make electricity, heat water, and even power cars. Solar energy is everywhere around us. Think about a sunny day at the beach or in a park. The warmth you feel and the bright light that helps you see are all solar energy.

Solar energy is special because it’s always there and never runs out. It’s a clean and safe way to make power, unlike some other types that can harm our planet. As we learn more about solar energy, we discover how amazing it is for our world.”

Discovering Photovoltaics

Photovoltaics might sound complicated, but it’s actually a simple idea. It’s all about turning sunlight into electricity. We do this using solar panels. These panels are usually seen on rooftops or in big fields. They are made of special materials that capture sunlight. When sunlight hits these solar panels, something amazing happens. The light gets turned into electricity. This electricity can then power our homes, schools, and even gadgets. It’s like magic, but it’s really science!

Moreover, photovoltaics is a great way to make clean energy. It doesn’t create smoke or harmful gases. This is really good for our planet. Using solar panels helps us keep the air clean and protect nature. Solar panels are becoming more popular. They show us a new way to make electricity without hurting the environment. As we learn more about photovoltaics, we find out how it can help us live in a cleaner, brighter world.

Benefits of Solar Energy and Photovoltaics

Solar energy is like a superhero of the energy world. First of all, it’s renewable, which means it never runs out. The sun will keep shining, giving us energy every day. This is different from other types of energy that can finish, like oil or coal. Also, solar energy is super clean. It doesn’t make the air dirty or harm the environment. When we use solar panels to make electricity, we don’t create any smoke or bad gases. This is really important because it helps keep our planet healthy.

Another cool thing about solar energy is that it can save people money. After the cost of setting up solar panels, the energy from the sun is free. This means lower electricity bills, which is great for everyone. Using solar energy and photovoltaics is a smart choice. It’s good for the Earth and can help us in many ways. As we use more solar energy, we take steps towards a cleaner and happier world.

Solar Energy in Action

Solar energy is not just something we talk about, it’s being used all around us. For example, some houses have solar panels on their roofs. These panels capture sunlight and turn it into electricity for everything in the house. Also, some schools use solar energy to power lights and computers. Moreover, solar energy isn’t only for buildings. It can be used in farming too. Farmers use solar panels to run machines and water plants. This helps them grow food without using so much electricity from other sources.

Another great thing is that people can get help to install solar panels. There are special programs and incentives, especially for places like farms and labs, to make solar energy more affordable. Solar energy is becoming a big part of our lives. Every solar panel set up is a step towards a cleaner world. It’s exciting to see how solar energy is used in different ways and helps us all.

The Future of Solar Energy

The future of solar energy looks really bright, just like the sun! More and more people around the world are starting to use solar panels. This is great news because it means cleaner energy for everyone. One exciting part is that scientists are always finding new ways to make solar panels even better. They are working on making them more powerful and easier to use. This means that in the future, solar energy could be used even more than it is now.

Also, as young people learn about solar energy, they can think of new ideas to use it. Maybe one day, you could come up with a new way to use solar energy! So, the future with solar energy is full of possibilities. It’s an adventure that we are all a part of. Every step we take toward using more solar energy is a step toward a cleaner, safer planet for us all.

Conclusion

To wrap up, solar energy and photovoltaics are really important for our planet. We’ve learned that solar energy comes from the sun and is a clean, endless power source. Photovoltaics is a smart way to turn sunlight into electricity. This helps us in many ways, like keeping the air clean and saving money.

Remember, solar energy is not just about today, it’s about our future too. Every time we use solar panels, we’re helping our planet. It’s up to all of us, especially young people, to keep learning and thinking of new ways to use this amazing energy. So, let’s keep exploring and using solar energy. It’s a bright path towards a better world for everyone. The more we use the sun’s power, the happier our Earth will be!

Tech

Synchronized Success: Mastering Operations with an Advanced Order Management System

Published

3 months ago

January 25, 2024

sylvia J

Mastering Operations with an Advanced Order Management System

In the bustling arena of modern business, an advanced order management system (OMS) stands as a pivotal tool for companies striving to streamline their operations. The journey from manual to automated order processing has been transformative, bringing with it a wave of efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

The Evolution of Order Management Systems

Gone are the days of cumbersome manual processes. The evolution of technology has ushered in sophisticated OMS platforms, turning operations into a symphony of synchronized processes. These systems have become the backbone of successful businesses, adapting to the ever-changing business environment.

The evolution of Order Management Systems (OMS) is a fascinating journey that mirrors the progression of technology and its impact on business operations. In its earliest form, order management was a manual process, heavily reliant on paper-based systems. Orders were written down, passed along, and physically filed, making the process slow, error-prone, and inefficient.

As businesses grew and technology advanced, the need for a more streamlined, error-free system became evident. The introduction of computers and software in business brought the first wave of automation in order management. Early digital systems were basic but marked a significant step away from manual processes, enabling faster and more accurate order processing.

The real transformation began with the advent of the internet and e-commerce. This digital revolution necessitated a more robust and dynamic approach to order management. The OMS now had to handle a greater volume of orders, manage cross-channel sales, and provide real-time data. This period saw the emergence of integrated systems that could track orders from inception to delivery, align inventory levels, and provide critical insights into the entire supply chain.

Today, advanced OMS are at the heart of business operations, offering features like real-time inventory management, seamless integration with customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and powerful analytics tools. The latest systems are even harnessing AI and machine learning to predict trends, optimize inventory, and automate decision-making processes.

The future of OMS is geared towards even greater integration and intelligence. With advancements in AI, machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT), these systems are poised to become more predictive, autonomous, and capable of managing complex business ecosystems with remarkable efficiency and insight.

Thus, the evolution of Order Management Systems reflects a journey from manual to automated, from isolated to integrated, and from reactive to predictive, mirroring the broader trajectory of business in the digital age.

Key Features of an Advanced Order Management System

A top-tier OMS is marked by several key features:

Real-time Inventory Tracking: Keeping a live tab on inventory levels ensures that businesses can meet customer demands without overstocking.

Seamless Integration: An effective OMS smoothly integrates with existing systems, such as CRM and ERP, for a unified workflow.

Customization and Flexibility: Tailoring the system to specific business needs is crucial for maximum efficiency.

Data Analytics and Reporting: Insightful analytics empower businesses to make data-driven decisions.

Benefits of Implementing an Advanced Order Management System

The benefits of an advanced OMS are manifold:

Enhanced Customer Experience: Accurate and timely order processing leads to satisfied customers.
Improved Operational Efficiency: Automation reduces the scope for errors, speeding up processes.
Reduced Errors and Cost Savings: By minimizing manual intervention, businesses can save on operational costs.
Scalability: An advanced OMS grows with your business, accommodating increased volumes without a hitch.

Challenges in Adopting an Order Management System

While the benefits are clear, challenges in implementation exist. Ensuring that staff are well-trained and adapting the system to existing processes can be daunting but not insurmountable.

Case Studies: Successful Implementations

From retail giants to burgeoning e-commerce platforms, numerous businesses have reaped the rewards of an advanced OMS, showcasing significant improvements in their operational metrics.

Choosing the Right Order Management System

Selecting the right OMS involves a careful assessment of business needs and a thorough evaluation of vendor capabilities. It’s not just about the technology but the partnership and support offered by the provider.

Integration and Customization Strategies

Customizing and integrating the OMS with existing business processes is crucial. It should complement and enhance current operations, not disrupt them.

Future Trends in Order Management Systems

Emerging trends like AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics are set to revolutionize OMS, making them even more intelligent and proactive.

Best Practices for Maximizing System Efficiency

Regular training, updates, and continual monitoring are key to ensuring that the OMS remains effective and efficient.

Measuring the Impact of an Order Management System

Understanding the impact of an OMS on business operations can be measured through KPIs and ROI analysis, providing tangible evidence of its efficacy.

Preparing for Future Challenges

Staying ahead in the fast-paced business world means anticipating market changes and keeping systems updated and agile.

Conclusion: The Road to Synchronized Success

Adopting an advanced order management system is not just about upgrading technology; it’s a step towards synchronized success in a complex business landscape. By embracing these systems, companies can ensure they remain competitive, efficient, and customer-focused.

FAQs

What are the primary benefits of an advanced order management system?
- Enhanced customer satisfaction, improved efficiency, reduced errors, and scalability for business growth.
How does an OMS integrate with existing business systems?
- It seamlessly integrates with systems like CRM and ERP for a unified operational flow.
Can an OMS be customized to fit specific business needs?
- Yes, customization is a key feature of advanced OMS solutions.
What future trends are shaping order management systems?
- Integration of AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics are major trends.
How do you measure the success of an OMS implementation?
- Through KPIs and ROI analysis, assessing improvements in efficiency and cost savings.