A machine may have the right PLC, drives and electrical protection, but if operators cannot interact with the control system easily, managing the entire process becomes more complicated. Poor screen visibility, communication incompatibility and unexpected software requirements can create avoidable challenges during installation and commissioning.
A Human Machine Interface (HMI) helps operators monitor machine conditions, view alarms, adjust parameters and interact with industrial equipment. However, choosing the right HMI requires more than comparing screen sizes and prices. The display, communication interfaces, engineering software and installation conditions must all match the application.
For panel builders, OEMs and industrial users, Omron HMI solutions offer options for different machine-control and monitoring requirements. The key is to identify the right model and configuration before finalising the control panel design.
At Balaji Switchgears, we focus on helping customers evaluate automation products according to their actual application needs. This guide explains the key considerations when selecting an Omron HMI, from screen size and PLC compatibility to software requirements and installation planning.
What Should You Know Before Selecting an HMI?
An HMI provides the interface through which operators interact with a machine or industrial process. Depending on the application, it can display operating parameters, provide control commands, show alarms, monitor production data and allow operators to adjust machine settings.
The required HMI depends on the complexity of the application and the level of interaction needed.
- Basic machine operation: A compact touchscreen may be sufficient for displaying status information and controlling a limited number of functions.
- Advanced machine monitoring: Applications requiring detailed graphics, multiple screens and more operating information may benefit from a larger display.
- Integrated automation: Machines using compatible controllers and automation software may require an HMI that supports the intended system architecture and engineering environment.
The objective is not to select a model with the maximum number of features. It is to choose a suitable interface that meets the machine’s operating requirements without introducing unnecessary complexity.
1. Omron HMI Screen Size: Choose According to the Application
Screen size directly affects how operators view information and navigate the interface. A small display may reduce the initial hardware cost, but it can also limit the amount of information visible at one time.
A larger display provides more space for graphics, alarms and operating parameters. However, it also affects the panel cut-out, mounting depth, available enclosure space and overall project budget.
The following table provides a starting point for evaluating display requirements.
| HMI Screen Size | Potential Application |
| 4–5 inches | Basic machine status and limited operating parameters |
| 7 inches | Compact machines and straightforward control applications |
| 9–10 inches | Applications requiring additional operating data, alarms and navigation |
| 12–15 inches | Machines requiring more detailed visualisation and multiple information screens |
These are general guidelines, not fixed rules. The final selection should be based on the available models, application design and information operators need to access.
Other Display Factors to Consider
Resolution: Check whether the display resolution supports the intended graphics, text and application layout.
Touchscreen operation: Consider how operators will interact with the panel. If gloves are used during production, verify that the selected model supports reliable operation under those conditions.
Brightness and visibility: The installation environment determines how easily operators can read the screen. Brightly lit areas may require different display characteristics from enclosed control rooms.
Front protection: Dust, moisture and cleaning conditions influence the required protection level. Verify the specified front IP rating for the exact model.
Mounting dimensions: Confirm the panel cut-out, depth and clearance before finalising the enclosure design. This is especially important when replacing an existing HMI.
At Balaji Switchgears, we recommend evaluating these factors together rather than selecting a display based on screen size alone.
2. Understanding Omron HMI Series
Omron offers programmable terminals for different automation requirements. Two product families worth evaluating are the NA Series and NB Series. Their suitability depends on the machine, control architecture and required functionality.
Omron NA Series
The Omron NA Series is designed for machine operation and monitoring within the Sysmac automation environment. The NA Series (-V2) includes widescreen models in 7-inch, 9-inch, 12.1-inch and 15.4-inch sizes.
When considering an NA Series HMI, evaluate:
- The display size and resolution required by the application.
- Compatibility with the selected controller and system architecture.
- The graphics and operator functions needed.
- The applicable Sysmac Studio software version.
- Installation dimensions and environmental requirements.
The NA Series may be worth evaluating for applications where the HMI needs to work within a compatible Omron automation setup. However, controller compatibility and software requirements must be confirmed for the exact configuration.
Omron NB Series
The Omron NB Series provides programmable terminals positioned for economical machine-operation and monitoring requirements.
When evaluating an NB Series model, consider the display size, required operating functions, supported communication options and compatibility with the installed PLC.
Omron identifies NB-Designer as the screen-creation software for the NB Series. Its availability and applicable requirements should be checked through the relevant regional Omron website and product documentation.
The NA and NB families should not be treated as interchangeable. The appropriate choice depends on the application requirements, controller compatibility, engineering environment and required features.
3. HMI Communication Protocols: Will It Connect to Your PLC?
An HMI must communicate correctly with the PLC and other devices in the control system. Even a suitable display can create integration problems if its communication interfaces or supported drivers do not match the installed equipment.
Before selecting an Omron HMI, identify the PLC manufacturer, model and communication interface. Also consider whether the HMI needs to exchange information with drives, meters or other automation devices.
Common industrial communication options include:
- Modbus RTU: Serial communication used by compatible industrial devices.
- Modbus TCP: Ethernet-based communication supported by compatible devices and configurations.
- EtherNet/IP: An industrial Ethernet protocol used by supported automation equipment.
- Other manufacturer-specific drivers: Communication drivers that enable compatible HMIs to exchange data with particular controllers.
These are examples of industrial communication options, not a guarantee that every Omron HMI supports every protocol. Supported communications vary by series and model.
Three Checks That Help Prevent Integration Problems
1. Verify the exact PLC model.
Confirm the controller manufacturer, model, communication interface and supported driver. Do not assume that compatibility with one PLC in a product family guarantees compatibility with every model.
2. Check the available ports.
Determine whether the application requires Ethernet, RS-232C, RS-485 or another interface. Confirm the selected HMI has the required ports and supports the intended communication arrangement.
3. Consider future connectivity.
If the machine may later connect to a supervisory control system, reporting platform or remote monitoring solution, identify those requirements early. Confirm the relevant features rather than assuming that an Ethernet port automatically provides every connectivity function.
Checking these details before ordering helps reduce the risk of communication mismatches during commissioning.
4. Omron HMI Software and Licensing: Understand the Requirements
The HMI hardware price is only one part of the total project cost. Engineering software, compatible versions and optional functions can also influence the selection.
Omron uses different engineering environments for different HMI families. For example, the NA Series uses Sysmac Studio, while the NB Series uses NB-Designer for screen creation.
These software environments should not be confused with one another. The applicable tool depends on the selected HMI family and configuration.
What Should You Check Before Finalising the Software?
Engineering software: Confirm which software package is required to create, edit and transfer the HMI project.
Version compatibility: Check that the software version supports the selected HMI model and works with the relevant controller and project configuration.
Required functions: Identify the alarms, screen navigation, data display and other functions needed for the application. Verify that the selected model and software support them.
Project maintenance: Determine who will maintain the HMI project after commissioning. Ensure the appropriate project files and software access arrangements are available.
Replacement planning: Consider what will be required if the HMI needs replacement or the application needs modification later.
Software costs and availability: Verify any applicable software costs, access conditions, updates and support arrangements against the exact product and regional documentation. Do not assume that the software requirements are identical across Omron HMI families.
How to Avoid Unplanned Costs
Before requesting a quotation, prepare a list of the application’s requirements:
- Number of operating screens and required data points.
- PLC manufacturer, model and communication interface.
- Required display size and mounting dimensions.
- Alarm, trend and data-display requirements.
- Engineering software needed by the team.
- Additional connectivity or monitoring functions.
- Project maintenance and replacement requirements.
This information helps create a clearer picture of the complete HMI requirement rather than focusing only on the hardware price.
5. What Else Should You Check Before Ordering an Omron HMI?
Screen size, communication and software compatibility are important, but the installation environment and maintenance requirements also deserve attention.
Before finalising your selection, review the following points:
Power supply: Confirm the required supply voltage and power consumption.
Operating environment: Check the permitted operating temperature and suitability for the installation location.
Enclosure compatibility: Verify the mounting cut-out, panel depth and available space.
Protection requirements: Match the specified front protection rating to the expected dust and moisture exposure.
Application complexity: Confirm that the selected HMI can support the required graphics, alarms, data display and operator functions.
Maintenance: Consider product availability, replacement requirements and access to project files for future modifications.
System integration: Verify compatibility with the PLC, drives, meters and other equipment used in the control panel.
For OEMs building machines in volume, these checks are particularly valuable. A suitable HMI should meet the current project’s requirements while remaining practical to install, commission and maintain.
How Balaji Switchgears Helps with Omron HMI Selection
Selecting an HMI is an important part of planning an automation system. The display must suit the operator, the communication interfaces must match the installed equipment, and the engineering software must support the intended application.
Balaji Switchgears is an authorised distributor of Omron, supporting panel builders, OEMs, system integrators and industrial customers with their electrical and automation product requirements.
When evaluating Omron HMI solutions, our focus is on understanding the machine, its operating requirements and the equipment with which the interface needs to communicate. This helps customers assess relevant product options based on their actual application rather than selecting an HMI on screen size or price alone.
To assess suitable Omron HMI options, it helps to have the following information ready:
- PLC manufacturer and exact model.
- Required display size and panel mounting dimensions.
- Communication interfaces and protocols.
- Number of operating screens and required functions.
- Installation environment and protection requirements.
- Engineering software and project-maintenance needs.
- Budget and expected project quantities.
As an authorised Omron distributor, Balaji Switchgears can help customers review the relevant product requirements and identify specifications that need to be confirmed before procurement.
Conclusion
Selecting an Omron HMI requires a clear understanding of the machine’s operating needs, display requirements, PLC compatibility and engineering software. The NA and NB Series provide options for different applications, but the correct choice depends on the required functionality and the compatibility of the complete control system.
At Balaji Switchgears, we help customers assess their automation requirements and explore suitable Omron product options for their applications.
Working on a new machine or upgrading an existing control panel? Connect with Balaji Switchgears, an authorised distributor of Omron, to explore suitable Omron HMI options for your application. Share your PLC model, required screen size and communication details with our team to help identify the relevant product specifications for your project.