Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Node-RED VS OPC Router

Compare Node-RED VS OPC Router and see what are their differences

Node-RED logo Node-RED

Node-RED is a programming tool for wiring together hardware devices, APIs and online services in new and interesting ways.

OPC Router logo OPC Router

The OPC Router is one of the leading data hubs and OPC gateways in the Industry 4.0.
  • Node-RED Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-07-23
  • OPC Router Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-24

The OPC Router is the data hub for Industry 4.0. Its numerous Plug-ins enable communication with a variety of systems. Its intuitive graphical user interface makes it possible to configure data streams in the simplest way possible. Connections which exchange data between systems and perform actions in defined events are configured via drag & drop. The OPC Router operates in the background and ensures uninterrupted, reliable and controlled processing of the connections.

Node-RED features and specs

  • Visual Programming
    Node-RED offers a flow-based development interface which allows users to create applications by wiring together pre-built nodes, making it intuitive and easier to understand, especially for non-programmers.
  • Extensibility
    The platform is highly extensible with a large library of pre-built nodes available and support for creating custom nodes. This makes it adaptable to a wide range of use cases.
  • Event-Driven
    Node-RED is designed around an event-driven architecture, which is beneficial for handling asynchronous events and real-time data.
  • Cross-Platform
    Node-RED is based on Node.js and runs on various platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and even low-resource devices like Raspberry Pi.
  • Integrations
    It offers extensive integration capabilities with various protocols (like MQTT, HTTP, and WebSockets) and a wide variety of services (like databases, cloud services, and IoT platforms).

Possible disadvantages of Node-RED

  • Performance
    Being a higher-level tool built on Node.js, it may not match the performance of systems built directly using lower-level languages and tools, particularly for very resource-intensive applications.
  • Complexity with Large Flows
    As the number of nodes and flows increases, the visual representation can become cluttered and harder to manage. This might make debugging and maintenance more difficult.
  • Scalability
    While suitable for small to medium-sized projects, Node-RED may face challenges in scaling to very large, enterprise-level applications without significant architectural adjustments.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    Although it simplifies basic tasks, there can be a steep learning curve to unlock its full potential, particularly when dealing with sophisticated integrations or custom node development.
  • Security
    The out-of-the-box security features may not be sufficient for all applications. Additional measures such as authentication, encryption, and network security must be implemented for deployment in sensitive environments.

OPC Router features and specs

  • Interoperability
    OPC Router facilitates seamless communication between various industrial devices and systems, supporting multiple protocols and standards. This interoperability allows for integration across different equipment and software platforms, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software offers a graphical interface that simplifies the setup and configuration process, making it accessible for users without extensive programming skills. This ease of use accelerates deployment and reduces the learning curve.
  • Scalability
    OPC Router is scalable and can be adapted to a wide range of operations, from small-scale implementations to large industrial projects. This scalability ensures that businesses can grow their operations without needing to switch to different integration tools.
  • Real-Time Data Processing
    The software supports real-time data processing, which is critical for maintaining timely and accurate data flow in industrial environments. This capability helps businesses make informed decisions based on current data.
  • Extensive Plugin Support
    OPC Router offers a variety of plugins that extend its functionality, allowing users to customize their integration solutions and meet specific operational needs. This modularity maximizes flexibility and ensures tailor-fit integrations.

Possible disadvantages of OPC Router

  • Cost
    The initial licensing and setup costs for OPC Router can be high, which may be prohibitive for small businesses or startups with limited budgets. Ongoing maintenance and support fees can add to the overall expense.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While the basic functions are user-friendly, mastering advanced features and customizations can be complex and may require specialized training or expertise, potentially causing delays in implementation.
  • Dependency on External Systems
    OPC Router's functionality is reliant on the compatibility of third-party systems and devices. If these external systems are outdated or do not adhere to modern standards, integration challenges and data inconsistencies may arise.
  • Potential for Over-Integration
    In scenarios where businesses integrate too many systems or data streams, there can be an overload of information, leading to inefficiencies and possible system slowdowns as the router has to handle large amounts of data.
  • Reliance on IT Infrastructure
    The performance of OPC Router is dependent on the underlying IT infrastructure. Poor network conditions, server issues, or inadequate hardware can affect the software's efficiency and reliability.

Analysis of Node-RED

Overall verdict

  • Node-RED is generally considered a good tool, particularly for non-programmers and those looking to quickly prototype and deploy IoT solutions. Its visual interface simplifies the development process and can handle a wide variety of integration tasks.

Why this product is good

  • Node-RED is an open-source flow-based programming tool primarily intended for wiring together hardware devices, APIs, and online services as part of the Internet of Things (IoT). It is visually driven, allowing users to create and deploy complex workflows and automation processes with minimal programming knowledge. Its extensive library of pre-built nodes and its active community contribute to its flexibility and ease of use.

Recommended for

  • IoT enthusiasts
  • Quick prototyping of automation flows
  • Integrating various APIs and services
  • Users who prefer a visual programming interface
  • Educational purposes for teaching programming and IoT concepts

Node-RED videos

Intro to Node-RED: Part 1 Fundamentals

OPC Router videos

OPC Router OPC UA zu SQL

More videos:

  • Demo - OPC Router – Industry 4.0 Software
  • Tutorial - OPC Router: Easy transfer of CSV file to Database (EN)
  • Tutorial - Video tutorial for the OPC UA Server Plug-in
  • Review - OPC Router Webinar Series 2020 by Inray - OPC Router Scripting
  • Review - OPC Router Webinar Series 2020 by Inray - End-to-end communication between shop floor and ERP
  • Review - OPC Router - The Industry 4.0 software

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Node-RED and OPC Router)
Automation
90 90%
10% 10
Data Dashboard
0 0%
100% 100
DevOps Tools
95 95%
5% 5
Web Service Automation
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Node-RED and OPC Router

Node-RED Reviews

10 n8n.io Alternatives
Node-RED is a flow-based development and programming tool for visual programming presented in the market by IBM for wiring together online services and hardware devices as part of the internet of things. Web browser-based flow editor is available over this software to create JavaScript functions, and elements of apps can be saved or shared for using reprocess. Back in 2016,...
Open Source Internet of Things (IoT) Platforms
Node-RED is a visual tool for lining the Internet of Things, i.e., wiring together hardware devices, APIs, and online services in new ways. Built on Node.js, Node-RED describes itself as “a visual means for wiring the Internet of Things.”
9 Home Automation Open-Source Platforms for Your projects
If you would like to know how to build your own home automation system with Node-RED, Raspberry Pi, ESP8266 and Arduino, I’ve just released a new course on this subject: Build an Home Automation System for $100.

OPC Router Reviews

We have no reviews of OPC Router yet.
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Node-RED seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 127 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Node-RED mentions (127)

  • Erlang-Red: Node-Red with an Erlang Back End
    Ahh, you didn't create Node-RED editor. That's an external project. https://nodered.org/. - Source: Hacker News / about 1 month ago
  • Hardware Metrics Collection with IOT Devices
    Node Red is a unique application that provides a graphical programming environment. With this, you can define input to output transformation with any level of complexity, including reading, parsing, formatting, and output with optional conditionals. For example, here is a flow definition that parses MQTT JSON messages that communicate if a node is alive, and then store this information in InfluxDB:. - Source: dev.to / 6 months ago
  • Home Assistant and ESP Home: How to use MQTT Integration for Dynamic Device Configuration
    For a simple test, I created this Node Red flow that listens to homeassistant/status messages. HA itself will send messages that communicate when its started or when it is about to shutdown. These messages, and a custom message I send from within HA, could be seen:. - Source: dev.to / 6 months ago
  • Data Visualization on the e-RT3 using Node-RED, InfluxDB Cloud, and Grafana
    Node-RED (e-RT3) Flow-based, low code development tool. - Source: dev.to / 11 months ago
  • Top 15 Open-Source Low-Code Projects with the Most GitHub Stars
    GitHub Https://github.com/node-red/node-red GitHub Stars 19.1k Most Recent Update on GitHub 2 weeks ago Open Source License Apache 2.0 Number of Active Contributors This Year 13 Acceptance of External PRs Yes Official Website Https://nodered.org/ Documentation Https://nodered.org/docs/. - Source: dev.to / 11 months ago
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OPC Router mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of OPC Router yet. Tracking of OPC Router recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Node-RED and OPC Router, you can also consider the following products

n8n.io - Free and open fair-code licensed node based Workflow Automation Tool. Easily automate tasks across different services.

NoFlo - NoFlo is a JavaScript implementation of Flow-Based Programming (FBP).

Zapier - Connect the apps you use everyday to automate your work and be more productive. 1000+ apps and easy integrations - get started in minutes.

232key - Transforms data received via RS-232 into keystrokes. Make your serial device talk to any program!

ifttt - IFTTT puts the internet to work for you. Create simple connections between the products you use every day.

WinWedge - Data collection software for serial devices, including meters, balances, scales or any RS232...