---
title: OPC-DA
slug: concepts/opc-da
docTags: 
createdAt: 2025-09-09T08:54:31.154Z
---

## What is OPC-DA?

**OPC-DA (Open Platform Communications Data Access)** is one of the earliest communication standards in automation that allows industrial devices and software like PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems to exchange real-time data. It is based on Microsoft [DCOM](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distributed_Component_Object_Model) technology and therefore bound to the Windows operating system.

**In simple terms:** OPC-DA is a common language that lets your machines and software share live data with each other, as long as they are running on Windows.

## Why use OPC-DA?

- **Mature technology**: OPC-DA has been around since 1996
- **Widely adopted:** Used in many factories and industrial systems, especially those with legacy equipment.
- **Simple integration:** Makes it easier to connect older devices and software on Windows.

## More information

- [OPC-DA Reference](https://opcfoundation.org/developer-tools/specifications-classic/data-access/)
- [OPC-DA Status Codes](https://reference.opcfoundation.org/specs/OPC-10000-8/6.3)
- [Configuring an OPC-DA collector](docId\:a9Y-PCcwVFTuJ_uGoRiqj)