Rockwell Arena is simulation and automation software developed by Rockwell Automation. It uses the SIMAN processor and simulation language. It is currently in version 11.0. Arena is extensively used to simulate a company's process, such as a manufacturing plant, to analyze its current performance as well as possible changes that could be made. By accurately simulating a process, a company can see the outcomes of changes without implementing them in real-time, thus saving valuable time and resources.
In Arena, the user builds an experiment model by placing modules (boxes of different shapes) that represent processes or logic. Connector lines are used to join these modules together and specifies the flow of entities. While modules have specific actions relative to entities, flow, and timing, the precise representation of each module and entity relative to real-life objects is subject to the modeler. Statistical data, such as cycle time and WIP (work in process) levels, can be recorded and outputted as reports. Arena integrates very well to Microsoft technologies. It includes Visual Basic for Applications so models can be further automated if specific algorithms are needed. It also supports importing Microsoft Visio flowcharts, as well as reading from or outputting to Excel spreadsheets and Access databases. Hosting ActiveX controls is also supported.
Editions
- Student Edition - Free edition intended for students currently learning the software. It is limited to training-size models and to non-commercial use.
- Research Edition - This edition is intended for academic use, such as in universities teaching simulation, available at deep discounts (typically more than 90%). It is the same as the Professional Edition, except it's limited to non-commercial use.
- Basic Edition - Entry-level edition, including only a basic set of module templates.
- Professional Edition - General purpose edition that includes the commonly used tools and module templates. It also enables the modeler to create their own custom templates.
- Enterprise Suite - Includes all the available tools and templates for organizations with a wide range of simulation needs.
