Node-Red vs Benthos: When to use what for IIoT connectivity?

Jeremy Theocharis -

In this video, we explore the differences between Node-RED and Benthos, two popular tools in IIoT connectivity and data streaming. Whether you're looking for rapid prototyping or scalable, professional-grade solutions, choosing the right tool is critical.

Key Takeaways:

Tool Purpose

  • Node-RED: Best for rapid prototyping and quick implementations, especially in operational environments. Ideal for quick testing and immediate feedback.
  • Benthos (or similar IT tools): Suitable for scalable, professional-grade data streaming with strong integration into IT environments and CI/CD pipelines.

Scalability

  • Node-RED: Effective for small-scale projects but struggles with scalability and large data processing. Not ideal for complex, large-scale applications.
  • Benthos: Designed for scalability and handling complex, large-scale projects but requires IT expertise.

Ease of Use vs. Professional Requirements

  • Node-RED: User-friendly with a drag-and-drop interface; accessible for quick tasks without deep IT knowledge.
  • Benthos: Requires IT professionals for setup and configuration; less suited for quick, on-the-spot tasks.

Conclusion

Choose Node-RED for speed and simplicity in operational tasks. Opt for Benthos or similar tools for complex, scalable solutions requiring IT expertise. The right tool depends on the specific needs of your project.

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Want to connect devices from OPC UA, HTTP, S7comm, and more inputs? Try UMH Benthos protocol converter, which additionally allows you to organize the data within the ISA95 hierarchy. Watch the tutorial here.

Further Resources