A hot cutover method makes it possible to migrate your DCS during online process conditions. This reduces your migration costs, which is an important goal when planning a DCS migration. Although there are several hot cutover methods, they all have the goal to prevent downtime.
Read this article for more information about hot cutover methodology »Before being able to use a hot cutover method there are several requirements you have to meet. These are presented by Honeywell in a useful checklist document. This checklist consists of several parts:
- Data collection (site audit) – Collect data about every process loop in the controllers.
- Data analysis (site audit) – Create a loop diagram and a document to tag each controller in the order in which they are cutover.
- Database construction
- Planning – repairs, replacements, add-ons before and during the hot cutover, schedule of one-loop-at-a-time cutover.
- Training and orientation – team members are involved in all the preceding planning and data collection operations.
- Communications – at least two different clear communication channels should be established
- Teambuilding – a well-trained group of process operators should be created
