Rockwell to join forces with Omron
3 May 2000
Omron and Rockwell Automation are to join forces on technological and product developments. The companies have signed a global agreement in Tokyo to address the current and future needs of manufacturing organisations, in particular, open communications.
However, there are no plans for capital tie-ups, merger or exchange of senior executives, though other forms of cooperation are likely to follow, including cross-branding and joint e-commerce developments.
An initial aim is to increase the use of DeviceNet, ControlNet and Ethernet IP in the Asian markets. The two companies are also aiming to strengthen links between their software products through open technologies such as OPC (OLE for Process Control).
According to Omron chief executive, Yoshio Tateisi, `the relationship will focus on technical co-ordination to benefit automation customers and to leverage both our companies' combined research investment.'
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