DEFINITION: System Integrators bring together disparate component hardware and software
subsystems, typically from multiple sources, and coordinate them to function together as a whole.
System Integrators can provide expertise in the design and implementation of a large complex
projects. Historically this has been among, if not the, best option, but it carries several technical
and financial risks. Downsides include complex and expensive upgrades, and a higher risk
of compatibility-related performance and security issues. In addition, the buyer’s warranty
protections are often not guaranteed. Many System integrators pass on OEM warranties, but
they have no power to honor them if the OEM is unavailable.
WHY THAT MATTERS
The challenge for power system owners begin as their systems age. You’ve likely already
experienced this: A complex, software driven system begins its life running smoothly. Sub
components are compatible with one another, communications and security is optimized. It
all works as designed. A few years pass... and system compatibility, especially software and
electronics, diminishes as system components head towards their inevitable End-of-Life.
At this stage, owners often face difficult challenges; limited ability to predict issues in advance
of system failures, a lack of skills to trouble shoot and repair complex architectures, a poor
negotiating position to hire the necessary help, and buy the required ‘updated’ components to
bring their mission critical systems back online.