New Product: Camstar’s ‘SolarSuite’ version 4.5 handles manufacturing scale-up

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  Camstar Systems MES Graphic

Product Briefing Outline: Camstar Systems has released ‘SolarSuite’ 4.5 for general availability. Version 4.5 includes advancements developed in collaboration with leading solar manufacturers and new packaging options scale with solar companies from startup to global enterprise. A rapidly growing CIGS module manufacturer was said to have increased asset utilization by 12%. A CPV and multijunction solar cell manufacturer increased conversion efficiency by 38%. A vertically integrated c-Si module manufacturer reduced production scrap by 20% using the new system.

Problem: The fast-paced growth of the PV manufacturing industry requires MES systems to be adaptable to a wide-range of changing dynamics, whether it may be multiple fab expansion, new technology and process to best fit their needs.

Solution: Specific enhancements in version 4.5—driven in collaboration with leading manufacturers using the application—include expanded capabilities for global enterprises to manage multiple manufacturing sites and outsourced operations. In combination with Camstar Cell Controller, it simplifies integration with a wide variety of machine, equipment, and tool interface protocols used in automated factories. It has the capability to support complex manufacturing processes that span all solar technologies as well as allow users to quickly adopt the solution with minimal training—and realize benefits earlier. It also simplifies integration with a wide variety of machine, equipment, and tool interface protocols used in automated factories. New packaging options provide SolarSuite capabilities sized to meet the needs of companies in startup, growth and enterprise modes, and enable scaling from one mode to the next.

Applications: Process support for < 20 transactions/sec in 50 MW plants to >150 transactions/sec in 500MW c-Si and thin-film PV manufacturing plants.

Platform: SolarSuite is configured on the Camstar Enterprise Platform, and encompasses Manufacturing Execution, Quality Management, Process Planning, Operational Intelligence and Equipment Integration.

Availability: July 2010 onwards.