Tech Booster: Start your digital process automation journey

Digital communication, connectivity, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have revolutionized the process industry. To keep up with the latest trends and developments in this rapidly evolving field, professionals need access to specialized training that can help them master the skills required to succeed in this sector. This is where the Endress+Hauser Tech Booster comes in.

What exactly is a Tech Booster, you might be wondering? Tech Boosters are 60-minute training units that cover the latest topics in digital communication, connectivity, and IoT in the process industry. Each session includes a practical demonstration that helps participants get a hands-on feel for the concepts being taught. Best of all, all you need to participate in one of these online sessions is a laptop and maybe a headset.

Boost your knowledge about digital communication

One of our most popular courses is about Ethernet APL. We explain all about the brand-new two-wire Industrial Ethernet standard that fits perfectly into process automation requirements. Participants in the Ethernet APL Tech Booster learn about the new physical layer and the wide range of possibilities it offers. But our webinars cover a wide range of topics that are relevant to the process industry. Like our course about EtherNet/IP or PROFINET. The Tech Boosters cover everything from network design to device integration. Attendees will learn more about the EtherNet/IP and PROFINET technology working principle and get an impression of the network design and the involved components.

And there’s even more! Tech Boosters also cover the latest developments in HART, IO-Link, and WirelessHART. These webinars show participants how to unlock the existing potentials of their HART-capable instruments. Learn how to access the instruments through a second channel, following the NAMUR Open Architecture concept.

Are you interested? We talked to our training instructor Axel Eidmann. He will give you more insights about our Tech Boosters.

Axel Eidmann, Senior Trainer Industrial Communication at Endress+Hauser Digital Solutions

What inspired you to create the Tech Booster program, and how has it evolved over time?
Axel Eidmann (AE): "Actually, we started with our Tech Boosters back in 2018, even before the COVID-19 pandemic. We were looking for new ways to inform our colleagues all around the world about new developments in communication technologies for the process automation industry. As many of them had previously attended a classroom training a few years back and were asking for updates. We tried different ideas and the concept of the Tech Boosters had the highest endorsement. When COVID-19 forced us to stay at home, we were already well-prepared, and in 2019, over 2,000 people joined our Tech Booster sessions online. What has changed since then? The Tech Boosters are no longer limited to our Endress+Hauser colleagues, everybody is able to register and participate."

What are some of the biggest challenges that participants in your courses typically face, and how do you help them overcome these challenges?
AE: "Most participants handle traditional communication systems like HART or PROFIBUS in their daily work life, but they usually use them without knowing the wide range of possibilities that even these 20-year-old or even older technologies are able to offer. Now, Ethernet is entering our work field and changing processes that were established many years ago. As usual, with something new, there are doubts and uncertainties that must be addressed. With our Tech Booster sessions, we answer questions and provide new ideas and inputs on what is possible in today's automation world."

What new developments in digital communication, connectivity, and IoT do you think will have the biggest impact on the process industry in the coming years, and how is Tech Booster preparing professionals to meet these challenges?
AE: "The most important development I see today is the implementation of Ethernet-APL technology. It boosts connectivity and provides high bandwidth even to instruments located in hazardous areas. As an easy example, it allows a sensor in the field, such as a temperature sensor, to provide a web interface! Last year, we prepared a series of Tech Boosters to explain the technology and its impact on project as well as planning teams. We demonstrated how their work can be facilitated and the new possibilities that Ethernet-APL technology, in combination with protocols like PROFINET or EtherNet/IP, provides them."

What if participants want or need a follow up?
AE: "In today's connected world, we now also offer video-based learning materials. However, as we typically learn best through practical experience, I always recommend that participants join one of our technology training sessions. We are quite flexible, as they can join us here in Reinach at Endress+Hauser Digital Solutions in our so called "Systemworld" training area, or we can visit them on their site or meet in one of our Sales Centers worldwide."

One of the best things about Tech Boosters is that they are available on several dates and are free of charge as live online sessions via GoToWebinar. Course topics, as well as registration links, can be found on the Tech Booster website. We are looking forward to hear more about your ideas or struggles when thinking about the digitalization of your plant.