Foxboro

Foxboro, a trailblazer in industrial automation, introduced its Distributed Control System (DCS), known as the Foxboro I/A Series, which became highly regarded in the process control industry.

Overview of Foxboro DCS:

• Distributed Control: The system decentralized control tasks across a network of processors, offering enhanced scalability and flexibility compared to centralized systems.
• I/A Series: This denotes Foxboro's specific DCS product line, likely representing "Intelligent Automation."

Key Features:

• Modular Design: Facilitated easy system expansion and configuration.
• Real-time Monitoring: Provided real-time process monitoring and control capabilities.
• Integration: Seamlessly integrated with various field devices and communication protocols.
• Advanced Control Strategies: Supported advanced control strategies such as regulatory control and optimization.
• User-friendly Interface: Offered a user-friendly operator interface for process visualization and control.

Current Status:

Foxboro, founded in 1888, was an industrial automation pioneer. Their expertise in process control and instrumentation made them a leading supplier of Distributed Control Systems (DCS) across various industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, power generation, and pharmaceuticals.

On the other hand, Invensys emerged from a merger in 1999, combining the strengths of several automation and control companies. They offered a broader range of products and services, including DCS, PLC, SCADA systems, and building automation solutions.

In 2006, Invensys acquired Foxboro, merging two industry giants to create a comprehensive automation powerhouse. This merger aimed to leverage Foxboro's expertise in DCS with Invensys's wider product portfolio and global influence.

Subsequently, in 2008, Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, acquired Invensys. This acquisition further solidified Schneider Electric's position in the industrial automation market by incorporating the strengths of both Invensys and Foxboro.

Although Foxboro and Invensys no longer exist as independent entities, their legacy continues within Schneider Electric's automation solutions. Their contributions to process control, instrumentation, and Distributed Control Systems have had a profound impact across various industries worldwide.

Schneider Electric's Successor:

In succession to Foxboro's legacy, Schneider Electric introduced the EcoStruxure Foxboro DCS as the next-generation system. This newer platform retains the core functionalities of the Foxboro DCS while integrating advancements in automation technologies, cybersecurity, and cloud integration.