Frequently Asked Questions
List of questions
What is MES?
MES (manufacturing execution system) is a manufacturing information system that manages processes in production (from machine communication to production planning and control). It includes processes that ERP systems are not able to accommodate and thus enables efficient production management.
Can we just buy a module from you, like Maintenance?
In principle, the Maintenance module can be implemented as a stand-alone system, but it is important to remember that the efficiency of using this module increases with the corresponding input/output data.
Is it possible to try MES PHARIS?
Yes, ideally by implementing a pilot project (usually putting basic functionalities and user scenarios into operation on a limited number of machines). Another way to experience the benefits of MES PHARIS in practice is a reference visit to a MES PHARIS user, which can be part of a business meeting.
Do we need MES? Why isn’t the manufacturing module in ERP enough?
ERP systems do not address advanced functions in production – e.g. on-line communication with machines, unique identification of pieces, machine linking, product packaging, program uploading, etc. Manufacturing in ERP is handled in a narrower perspective – usually only through basic functions for reporting of manufactured pieces.
Does MES PHARIS allow connection of machines?
Yes, we have many years of experience with many types of machines and we can set up communication between them and MES PHARIS. Even for very old machines we are able to collect information at least about cycles. The solution does not depend on the make of the machine, but on its capabilities. The machines then communicate with MES PHARIS via standard interfaces (Euromap, OPC, Printer port) or via digital cards.
Doesn’t the terminal service burden the operators? We can’t afford that here.
After basic training, operators are able to work with the terminal very quickly. It is definitely not time consuming like regular paperwork. And certainly not when taking into account the additional processing of paper documentation and its error rate. Numerous examples of the opposite can be shown in practice – increased efficiency and savings.
Why buy MES PHARIS?
Not only because of the very wide range of modules, functionalities and user scenarios. We see efficient production management as a partnership and in this context we offer over 20 years of experience in the development and successful implementation of MES PHARIS. MES PHARIS is a Czech product with development and support in the Czech Republic.
Does MES PHARIS have warehouse management?
The Production Logistics module covers the internal logistics of materials, products and semi-finished goods. The APS module takes into account material availability in terms of production planning. Warehousing itself from a business process perspective is not a standard functionality of MES systems, it is an issue addressed within ERP systems. MES PHARIS also communicates with ERP systems in terms of materials to provide related functionalities.
How does the MES PHARIS licence work?
In the case of MES PHARIS license sales, customers are provided with server licenses that entitle them to run a server with the MES PHARIS application and client licenses that allow users to work with MES PHARIS within web clients (system administration and common use) and terminals in production (operators). Server licenses can be run both on customer servers and in the PHARIS cloud environment. MES PHARIS licenses can be purchased and rented as a service (SaaS).
Does MES PHARIS include work with labels and packaging units?
Print templates can be managed in MES PHARIS and linked to packaging units. Once the packaging is filled in production, MES PHARIS allows the necessary labels to be printed immediately and applied to the packaging units by the operators.
How long does it take to get MES PHARIS up and running?
It depends on the scope of the implementation project and the individual milestones of the system commissioning (whether the first user scenarios are waiting for the last ones to be completed). The length of the implementation can be significantly influenced by the cooperation of the customer’s employees. Typically, implementation is completed in 2 to 12 months.
What work is expected from the customer?
The customer is expected to cooperate in hardware installation, machine networking, etc. Furthermore, cooperation in defining and debugging individual processes is required. It is necessary to select a key user among the employees who will be trained as a system administrator.
Is it possible to adapt MES PHARIS to the customer’s needs?
Yes, if MES PHARIS does not contain the key functionality for the customer (or another solution is suitable), it is possible to order the development and operation of this functionality, both within the implementation and during the operation of the system.
Can we use the current HW we have on the production floor?
A regular PC is sufficient for managing MES PHARIS via the web client. However, the requirements for the server and production terminals must be consulted with the MES PHARIS supplier.
Can we display production documentation on the terminals?
Yes, production documentation in many formats can be added to various objects (e.g. machines or operations) in MES PHARIS and can be viewed by the operator at any time via the terminal.
How do you handle picking materials for a production operation?
For automated management of material needs, MES PHARIS includes the Material Logistics Kanban module. In addition, operators can “call up” personnel at the terminals who are responsible for material delivery and removal.
How do you deal with minor breaks of operators in MES PHARIS (going to the toilet, having a cigarette, etc.)?
This process is based on downtime. The MES PHARIS administrator can set up a customized downtime dial and then the operator can manually set the corresponding downtime on the production terminal. This process can also be automated. When the machine stops and no cycle is running, the operator registration changes from “production” to “downtime”.
How does MES PHARIS work with moulds in the plastics industry?
In MES PHARIS, you can create a form that is assigned to a process. Fitting the correct mould is then required before registration for production. MES PHARIS also facilitates the registration and management of moulds – users know where the mould is currently located, how many cycles have been performed on it and when maintenance was last carried out.
Is it possible to connect MES PHARIS with an ERP system?
Yes, MES PHARIS can be bi-directionally integrated with third-party systems, including economic and ERP systems, using API and SCI interfaces.
Can we run MES PHARIS without an ERP system?
Yes, MES PHARIS, if set up appropriately, allows the creation of basic objects (materials, technological processes, production orders) that users usually import from ERP. ERP is used to manage business processes that can be independent of the production management process in MES PHARIS.
We would like to have a linked attendance system with MES PHARIS, is this possible?
Through the standard MES PHARIS communication interface, it is possible to import many parameters of a specific employee and thus it is possible to easily set up his/her account in MES PHARIS or share online data on his/her current attendance.
We use our ID cards with RFID chip, is it also possible to use them within MES PHARIS?
Yes, it’s possible. The drivers support different RFID technologies (LF, HF, UHF), but the correct RFID readers must be supplied.
Is it possible to run MES PHARIS without updates and without user support?
Yes, it is possible, but strongly discouraged. Updates include not only new functionality and new features, but also security and technology enhancements. User support is therefore provided for a maximum of 3 versions backwards from the current one. MES PHARIS running in a cloud environment is always on the latest stable version.
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