Comparison · QB Control vs. Emerson DeltaV
QB Control vs DeltaV Comparison
Choose QB Control when
- Lab- and pilot-scale bioprocessing (250 mL – 50 L)
- Parallel multi-vessel fermentation with no system integrator
- Fast process development & DoE iteration
- Single-use bioprocessing with no legacy baggage
- Multi-vendor sensor fleets on open protocols
Choose Emerson DeltaV when
- GMP production above ~200 L with full plant control
- Continuous manufacturing needing MPC & PAT
- Enterprise-wide, multi-site DCS across a plant
At a glance
| Dimension | QB Control | Emerson DeltaV |
|---|---|---|
| Product category | SCADA-class, browser-based platform | Full DCS (Distributed Control System) |
| Best-fit scale | ◆ Lab to pilot, 250 mL – 50 L (extensible) | Plant-wide, to 20,000+ L |
| Hardware | ◆ Own modular QB Modules, auto-discovered, + open sensors | Proprietary controllers + 3rd-party instruments |
| Software delivery | ◆ Browser-based, any device / OS | Installed on Windows workstations |
| Configuration | ◆ Visual drag-and-drop recipes, no coding | IEC 61131-3 programming + ISA-88 batch |
| Deployment time | ◆ Days (plug-and-play) | Weeks to months (needs a system integrator) |
| Vendor strategy | ◆ Open ecosystem, no lock-in | Proprietary ecosystem |
| Enterprise DCS, MPC & continuous PAT | Out of scope | ◆ Full plant-wide control |
QB Control strengths
- No marshalling cabinets, wiring panels or power distribution boards
- Auto-discovery — no manual device commissioning
- PoE removes separate power infrastructure
- Bench-top form factor — no control room
- Open sensors at market price, no vendor markup
Where DeltaV leads — QB gaps
- Enterprise DCS scale beyond ~200 L / plant-wide
- Model-predictive & advanced process control (MPC / APC)
- Continuous-manufacturing PAT depth
- Deep SCADA / MES / ERP plant integration
QB Control targets lab-to-pilot — these are out of scope by design.
Table of Contents
- Executive Summary
- Platform Philosophy
- Architecture & Hardware
- Parallel Processing
- Multi-Vendor Integration
- Software Module Comparison
- Services Catalog & Rapid Deployment
- Recipe Engine
- Regulatory Compliance
- Pricing, Licensing & TCO
- Industry Fit Analysis
- What QB Control Can Replace
- Where QB Control Creates Superior Value
- Gaps & Limitations
- Migration & Replacement Scenarios
- Competitive Positioning Strategy
- Feature-by-Feature Matrix
Appendices — Summary Scores by Category · Sources
1. Executive Summary
The Core Argument
Emerson DeltaV is a full-scale DCS (Distributed Control System) designed for enterprise-level process manufacturing across oil & gas, chemicals, and pharma. QB Control is a SCADA-class, browser-based platform designed specifically for modular liquid handling and bioprocessing — and deployable both on QB Edge (benchtop QB Modules) and on a standard industrial PC driving stainless-steel, PLC-based systems via OPC-UA for pilot- and production-grade installations.
These remain fundamentally different products serving overlapping but distinct markets. The comparison is most relevant in upstream bioprocessing from lab bench through pilot scale (150 mL – 50 L benchtop, and stainless-steel pilot/production via PLC), where DeltaV is heavily over-engineered and QB Control provides a right-sized, cost-effective alternative.
Key Finding
QB Control does not replace DeltaV in all scenarios. It replaces DeltaV in specific, high-value segments where DeltaV’s complexity, cost, and vendor lock-in create friction. With the industrial-PC deployment path, that addressable footprint now extends upward into stainless-steel pilot and production cells that previously defaulted to a DCS. The sweet spot for QB Control as a DeltaV alternative is:
| Scenario | QB Control Replaces DeltaV? | Value Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Lab-scale bioprocessing (150 mL–10 L) | ✅ Full replacement | 90% cost reduction, days vs. months setup |
| Pilot-scale upstream (10–50 L benchtop) | ✅ Full replacement | 70–80% cost reduction, modular flexibility |
| Stainless-steel pilot/production (PLC + OPC-UA) | ✅ Strong replacement (new) | Industrial-PC deployment, no DCS tax |
| Parallel fermentation (multi-vessel) | ✅ Strong replacement | Plug-and-play parallel, no SI needed |
| Process development & DoE | ✅ Superior alternative | Faster iteration, lower barrier to entry |
| Single-use bioprocessing | ✅ Strong replacement | Native SU support, no legacy baggage |
| GMP production (>200 L, multi-train) | ⚠️ Partial / complementary | QB Control for monitoring & control; DeltaV for plant-wide orchestration |
| Continuous manufacturing | ❌ Not a replacement | DeltaV’s MPC & PAT capabilities required |
| Enterprise-wide multi-site DCS | ❌ Not a replacement | Different product category entirely |
2. Platform Philosophy
Fundamental Architecture Difference
| Dimension | DeltaV | QB Control |
|---|---|---|
| Product Category | DCS (Distributed Control System) | SCADA-class browser-based platform |
| Design Philosophy | Enterprise-first, top-down | Modular-first, bottom-up |
| Target Scale | Plant-wide (250 mL – 20,000+ L) | Lab-to-pilot (150 mL – 50 L benchtop); stainless-steel pilot/production via PLC + OPC-UA |
| Approach to Hardware | Proprietary controllers + 3rd-party instruments | Own modular hardware (QB Modules) + open sensors; or existing PLCs (Wago/Siemens/Beckhoff) |
| Software Delivery | Installed on Dell workstations (Windows) | Browser-based (any device, any OS) |
| Deployment Host | Emerson controllers + Dell servers | QB Edge for benchtop or standard industrial PC for PLC-based stainless steel |
| Configuration Model | IEC 61131-3 programming + ISA-88 batch | Visual drag-and-drop + recipe designer (no coding) |
| Deployment Time | Weeks to months (requires SI) | Days (plug-and-play) |
| Vendor Strategy | Proprietary ecosystem (lock-in) | Open ecosystem (no lock-in) |
| GAMP Classification | Category 5 (custom software) | Category 4 (configurable software) |
The Over-Engineering Problem
DeltaV assumes the client needs enterprise-grade process control with full ISA-88 compliance, MPC, and plant-wide SCADA/MES/ERP integration. That is correct for large production facilities but heavily over-engineered for lab and pilot work — R&D and DoE teams, 10–50 L pilot cells, stainless-steel cells that have a PLC but no need for a full DCS, academic labs, and CDMO campaigns. QB Control is purpose-built for these scenarios, and now scales up the stainless-steel pilot/production path through industrial-PC deployment and OPC-UA/PLC integration — without inheriting DCS cost, lock-in, or validation burden. (See §16 for the one-line positioning summary.)
3. Architecture & Hardware
Controller & Hardware Architecture
| Component | DeltaV | QB Control |
|---|---|---|
| Central Controller / Host | S-Series / M-Series / PK Controller (proprietary Emerson hardware) | QB Edge (runs QB Control locally) or industrial PC for PLC-based stainless-steel systems |
| I/O Architecture | CHARMs Electronic Marshalling (single-channel I/O modules) | Power-over-Ethernet (one cable = power + data per module); or PLC I/O (Wago/Siemens/Beckhoff) via OPC-UA |
| Execution Speed | 25 ms (PK Controller) | Real-time within PoE/PLC network latency |
| Max Devices Per Hub | Controller-capacity limited (PK: 100–1500 DSTs) | 7 per QB Edge, expandable via QB Switch (7+7+7…); PLC-bound for industrial-PC deployments |
| Device Discovery | Manual configuration + commissioning | Auto-discovery (Plug & Play) — device appears in QB Control automatically |
| Workstation Requirement | Dell-only PCs, Windows 10/11 IoT Enterprise LTSC | Any device with a browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari) |
| Form Factor | 19” rack-mount controllers + marshalling cabinets | Bench-top modules (310×115×115 mm each); or industrial PC + existing PLC cabinet |
| Power Architecture | Separate power supplies per cabinet + UPS required | PoE — single cable per module, no external power supplies |
| Wiring | Traditional marshalling or CHARMs (reduced but still significant) | Single Ethernet cable per module — minimal wiring |
| Full reboot time | Varies by system | Up to ~15 minutes for a full system reboot |
QB Modules Hardware Ecosystem vs. DeltaV 3rd-Party Integration
| Function | DeltaV Approach | QB Control Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Pumps | 3rd-party pumps integrated via OPC/Fieldbus/HART | QB Pump (peristaltic, centrifugal, syringe) — native integration; SmartPump (OPC) for 3rd-party |
| Sensors | Hamilton/Mettler Toledo via HART/Fieldbus or Softing adapters | QB Multisensor — connects up to 6 Hamilton/Mettler Toledo probes natively |
| Agitation | 3rd-party agitators via analog/digital I/O | QB Agitator, QB Multiagitator (2 or 6 vessels) — native |
| Temperature | 3rd-party thermocontrollers via analog I/O | QB Thermo (heating/cooling 2–42 °C, heating mats) — native |
| Gas Flow | 3rd-party MFCs via analog/Fieldbus | QB Gasflow (up to 2 gas streams, 0.1 SCCM – 20 SLPM) — native |
| Valves | 3rd-party solenoid/pneumatic valves via DI/DO | QB Pinch Valve, QB Selector Valve (24 positions), three-way valves — native |
| Scales | 3rd-party via analog/serial | QB Multiscale (up to 6 scales via RS232) — native |
| Foam Detection | External, no standard integration | QB Foam Sensor — optical, patent-pending, non-contact |
| Lighting | Not part of DeltaV ecosystem | QB Light (up to 6 independent LED outputs for photobioreactors) |
| Pressure | 3rd-party transmitters via HART/Fieldbus | QB Pressure Sensor (up to 2 single-use IBP transducers) |
Key Hardware Advantage: QB Control
- No marshalling cabinets, no wiring panels, no power distribution boards for benchtop deployments
- Auto-discovery eliminates manual device commissioning
- PoE eliminates separate power infrastructure
- Bench-top form factor — no rack room, no control cabinets
- Open sensors — use Hamilton, Mettler Toledo, Levitronix at market price (no vendor markup)
- New: for stainless-steel systems with existing PLCs, QB Control deploys on an industrial PC and integrates over OPC-UA — reusing field hardware instead of replacing it
4. Parallel Processing
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Capability | DeltaV | QB Control |
|---|---|---|
| Max Parallel Bioreactors | 32 per network (Discovery); configurable at production scale | Multiple parallel processes (license-dependent); QB Multiagitator supports 6 vessels per module; multi-instance services per process |
| Parallel Architecture | Each bioreactor = independent Unit Module within ISA-88 hierarchy | Each bioreactor = independent Process with own P&ID, alarms, recipes, batch recording |
| Shared Resource Management | Batch Executive arbitration for CIP/SIP, media prep | Process-level resource allocation via System and Process modules; conflict blockade prevents collisions |
| Independent Recipes Per Vessel | Yes — different recipes on different units | Yes — different recipes per process; parallel and sequential batch execution |
| Sequential Campaign Queuing | Campaign Manager | Sequential batch execution with Pending queue status + per-batch auto-stop conditions (new) |
| Unified Data View | DeltaV Historian (all units → one database) | QB Graphs (per-process live + history), Reports (per-batch) |
| Cross-Batch Comparison | DeltaV Batch Analytics | QB Graphs multi-parameter overlay + CSV export for external analysis |
| Technology Transfer | ISA-88 recipe structure enables lab→production migration | Process & recipe Import/Export with device mapping & conflict resolution; P&ID preserved on versioning |
| Campaign Management | Dedicated Campaign Manager module | Recipe Executions Board with full batch lifecycle (Pending, During Execution, Paused, Hold, Completed, Failed, Aborted) |
QB Control’s Parallel Processing Model
QB Control implements parallel processing through its System → Process → Batch hierarchy:
- System defines the physical resources (devices, services, equipment, media)
- Multiple Processes can be defined within a system, each with its own auto-generated P&ID, alarm configuration, recipe assignment, batch recording, and reports
- Multi-instance services allow the same service type to be instantiated across multiple processes
- Parallel Recipe Execution — multiple recipes run simultaneously across different processes
- Sequential execution (new) — batches can be queued with a Pending status and chained with auto-stop conditions, enabling unattended campaign sequencing
- Process-level isolation — each process operates independently with its own control loop and its own per-process emergency stop (P-Stop)
Where QB Control Excels in Parallel Processing
- No system integrator needed to set up parallel operations
- Visual P&ID per process — auto-generated from configuration, not manually drawn; preserved and copied forward on versioning
- Process & recipe Import/Export with device mapping — replicate a proven setup to new bioreactors and remap devices to the target system instantly
- Multi-user concurrent access — different operators monitor/control different processes simultaneously from different devices
- Lower incremental cost — adding a parallel bioreactor = adding QB Modules + license expansion (not buying new controllers, workstations, or SI engagement)
Where DeltaV Excels in Parallel Processing
- Higher vessel count at large production scale (32+ bioreactors per network)
- More sophisticated resource arbitration (Batch Executive for shared CIP/SIP)
- ISA-88 full compliance with standardized terminology and structure
- Cross-batch analytics built into the platform (DeltaV Batch Analytics)
- Model Predictive Control across parallel units for optimization
5. Multi-Vendor Integration
Protocol Support Comparison
| Protocol | DeltaV | QB Control |
|---|---|---|
| OPC UA | Native (App Stations, PK, EIOC); OPC DA limited to 32-bit | Native — primary path for PLC/stainless-steel integration; dedicated OPC UA Connector module with configurable mappings |
| Modbus | Native (TCP on PK/VIM2) | Supported (TCP and RTU) |
| MQTT | Not native (requires gateway) | Native — IoT real-time streaming |
| REST API | Not native | Native — modern web integrations |
| SQL (JDBC/ODBC) | Limited/custom | Native — direct database access |
| LDAP/Active Directory | Supported via Windows integration | Native — SSO with corporate credentials, configurable search scope/timeout/pagination |
| MTP (Module Type Package) | DeltaV MTP Merge Utility (NAMUR) | Supported (new) — plug-and-produce integration + MTP-oriented signal presentation in Graphs |
| PROFIBUS / PROFINET | Native on PK; FieldConnex / S2 redundancy | Profibus supported; PLC protocols (Wago/Siemens/Beckhoff) |
| HART | Native + Softing adapters | Not primary (sensors via Modbus RS485) |
| Foundation Fieldbus | Native (but problematic per users) | Not supported (not needed for target scale) |
| Bluetooth / WiFi / LTE | Not supported | Supported (QB Edge wireless options) |
| Serial (RS232/RS485) | Via converters | Native (QB Multiscale, QB Multisensor) |
| SMTP (email) | Not native | Native — notification dispatch with SMTP config + delivery logs |
| Secured external communication | Via DMZ/gateways | Supported — encrypted, protected external traffic |
Sensor Vendor Support Comparison
| Vendor | DeltaV | QB Control |
|---|---|---|
| Hamilton | Via HART adapters or Softing gateways | Native — Arc module sensors via QB Multisensor (DO, pH, conductivity, OD, CO₂, ORP); two-point / zero-point / slope calibration |
| Mettler Toledo | Via HART/Fieldbus or adapters | Native — ISM/Modbus sensors via QB Multisensor (DO, pH, ORP, CO₂, conductivity) |
| Levitronix | Custom integration | Native — flow meters via QB Multisensor |
| Mettler Toledo / Kern Scales | Via analog/serial | Native — MT-SICS / PKP series via QB Multiscale |
Integration Philosophy Difference
DeltaV: “We provide the control platform; you bring 3rd-party instruments and we integrate them via industrial protocols (HART, Fieldbus, OPC). Pre-engineered integrations exist for select OEM partners (Sartorius, Applikon, Cytiva) but still require significant engineering.”
QB Control: “We provide both the control platform AND the hardware modules. Our modules natively connect Hamilton, Mettler Toledo, and Levitronix sensors. For anything else, we offer OPC UA (with a dedicated connector), Modbus, MQTT, REST API, SQL, and MTP — and we deploy on your existing PLCs for stainless-steel systems. No adapters, no gateways, no system integrators needed.”
QB Control’s Integration Advantage
- Native sensor support — Hamilton and Mettler Toledo probes connect directly to QB Multisensor via Modbus RS485. No HART adapters, no Softing gateways, no Foundation Fieldbus complexity
- Modern protocols — MQTT, REST API, SQL are native. DeltaV requires custom gateways for these
- OPC UA Connector — a dedicated module bridges OPC-UA equipment into QB Control with configurable mappings, connector profiles, and per-connector service templates — the path for PLC-based stainless-steel systems
- MTP support (new) — plug-and-produce modular integration, closing a gap DeltaV previously held alone
- Auto-discovery vs. manual commissioning — plug in a QB Module and it appears in the inventory automatically
DeltaV’s Integration Advantage
- Pre-engineered OEM kits for Sartorius Biostat STR Gen 3 (80% faster integration) and Applikon V-Control
- Mature MTP tooling (MTP Merge Utility) with a longer track record at production scale
- Broader industrial protocol support for legacy plant integration (Foundation Fieldbus, PROFINET S2 redundancy)
- Plant-wide integration — connects to MES, ERP, LIMS at enterprise level
- Proven at production scale with complex, multi-vendor installations
6. Software Module Comparison
Module-by-Module Mapping
QB Control ships 18 software modules (up from 17), accessed through the Portal. The two additions since the previous comparison are Remote Access and Health Monitoring.
| Capability Area | DeltaV Component | QB Control Module | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Device Management | AMS Device Manager + manual commissioning | Inventory (auto-discovery, device status, configuration import/export, licensing) | QB simpler & faster |
| System Configuration | DeltaV Explorer + Control Studio | System (visual resource allocation, search, bulk add/remove, history to CSV) | QB no-code; DeltaV more powerful |
| Process Configuration | Control Studio + Batch configuration | Process (visual binding, versioning, duplicate process, live connection status, guided import/export) | QB faster; DeltaV more ISA-88 compliant |
| Process Visualization | DeltaV Live (HTML5 HMI) | P&ID (auto-generated, drag-and-drop, recipe execution from diagram, P-Stop/E-Stop) | QB auto-generates; DeltaV manual design |
| Batch Management | DeltaV Batch (ISA-88 full compliance) | Recipe (Designer / Batch / Executions Boards) | QB visual designer with Services; DeltaV more formally ISA-88 |
| Services Catalog | No equivalent (custom function blocks per project) | Services (~40 templates across 10 categories, load & execute in minutes) | QB unique advantage |
| Service Profiles | No equivalent | Service Profiles (reusable grouped/atomic parameter templates, portable import/export) | QB unique advantage |
| Alarm Management | DeltaV Alarm Management (ISA-18.2) | Alarms (ISA-18.2 conformance, watchlist, in-app global notifications) | Comparable (both ISA-18.2) |
| Data Visualization | DeltaV Historian + Trending | Graphs (live + history, multi-axis, annotations, MTP signals, export) | DeltaV more powerful historian; QB adequate for scale |
| Reporting | InfoBatch + Syncade MES | Reports (automated + manual, PDF/DOCX, recipe-execution & service-history sections) | DeltaV enterprise-grade; QB sufficient for lab/pilot |
| Batch Tracking | DeltaV Batch Historian | Runs (per-process, batch ID, user tracking, report linkage) | Both adequate |
| Calibration | External (AMS Device Manager) | Calibration (status tracking, Next Due Dates, Hamilton/pump methods, device-type-aware history) | QB integrated; DeltaV external tool |
| Audit Trail | Event Chronicle | Audit Trail (21 CFR Part 11 conformance, cross-module, exportable CSV) | Both strong |
| Access Control | Windows-based user management | Users & Roles (RBAC, 18 permission groups, LDAP/AD) | QB more modern (web-based) |
| Notifications | Custom configuration required | Notifications (in-app center, email/SMTP, per-user preferences, recipe-step alerts, logs) | QB richer out-of-box |
| Backup | System backup utility | Backup, Export & Archive (scheduled/manual wizards, one-click restore, integrity verification) | Comparable |
| License Management | LDK dongle or softkey | License (feature/device/system/time-based, online/offline, host-bound, license guards) | QB more flexible |
| Remote Access | Live Enterprise View / Remote Client (max 15 concurrent) | Remote Access (secure VPN, QR-code setup, phone/tablet/PC, role-based) — new | QB simpler, multi-device |
| Health Monitoring | Diagnostics across tools | Health Monitoring (system health dashboard, per-module status, drill-down) — new | QB consolidated, always-on |
| MPC / Advanced Control | DeltaV PredictPro (economic optimizer) | ❌ Not available | DeltaV wins |
| PAT Integration | DeltaV Spectral PAT (embedded) | ❌ Not available | DeltaV wins |
| Digital Twin | DeltaV Mimic 6.LTS | ❌ Not available | DeltaV wins |
| MES | Syncade (electronic batch records) | ❌ Not native (REST API integration point) | DeltaV wins |
| AI/ML | DeltaV Neural, Revamp, AI portfolio | ❌ Not available | DeltaV wins |
| Edge Computing | DeltaV Edge Environment 2.0 | QB Edge (runs QB Control locally) | Different approach, both valid |
7. Services Catalog & Rapid Deployment
QB Control’s Services Catalog — A Game-Changing Differentiator
One of QB Control’s most powerful advantages over DeltaV is the Services Catalog — a library of pre-built, parameterized service templates that can be loaded and executed within minutes. A Service is a pre-defined control action (the equivalent of a DCS control loop) that directly commands hardware. Services come in two types:
- Autocomplete Services — execute a discrete task and close automatically (e.g., Transfer Volume by Pump, Add Gas Volume by MFC)
- Continuous Services — run until explicitly stopped (e.g., Set Agitator Speed, Temperature Control by TCU, pH Control by Base & CO₂)
Services Catalog by Category
QB Control ships with ~40 pre-built service templates across 10 functional categories out of the box, with QB Filtration adding a tangential-flow filtration set (recently expanded). This covers every core bioprocess control need:
| Category | Example Services | Count | Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH Control | pH Control by Base & CO₂, by Base & Acid, by One Pump, One Pump PID, pH PID Control | 6 | Continuous |
| Temperature Control | by TCU, by Heating Mat, by Steam & Water, Split Temp, Set Circulator Temp, Set Heating Mat Power | 6 | Continuous |
| Pump & Feed | Feed, Autosubstrate, Set Pump Flow Rate, Set Centrifugal Pump RPM, Transfer Volume/Bolus, Gravimetric Feeding | 9 | Continuous + Autocomplete |
| Gas Control | O₂ Control, Advanced O₂ Control, Set MFC Flow, Set Sparger Mass Flow | 4 | Continuous |
| Gas Volume Delivery | Set Sparger Volume & Mass Flow | 1 | Autocomplete |
| Sampling | Automated Sampling, Sample by Syringe Pump, Sampler Cleaning | 3 | Continuous + Autocomplete |
| Stirring & Agitation | Stirring, Set Agitator Speed | 2 | Continuous |
| Foam Control | Foam Control, Foam Control by Antifoam Reagent | 2 | Continuous |
| Valve Control | Set Selector Valve Position, Set Valve Position | 2 | Continuous |
| LED & Light | LED Control, LED Control Scheduler | 2 | Continuous |
| Core catalog (out of the box) | ~40 | across 10 categories | |
| QB Filtration add-on | Filtervig Control, Concentration Factor Logic, NWP Calculator, Breakthrough Detection, plus six new tangential-flow services | expanded | Continuous + Autocomplete |
Service Profiles — Reusable Parameter Templates
QB Control’s Service Profiles (Settings → Service Profiles) let users save standardized parameter configurations as reusable templates. QB Control adds grouped and atomic-style configuration models, structured profile cards (e.g., PID Controller Tuning, Temperature Ramp, Operating Limits), and portable export/import to transfer complete profile sets between templates or environments. Profile-driven values are labeled in execution review for traceability.
How Services Transform Experiment Deployment
| Workflow Step | DeltaV Approach | QB Control with Services Catalog |
|---|---|---|
| Define control strategy | Write IEC 61131-3 code or configure function blocks | Select service template from catalog |
| Set parameters | Enter values in Control Studio (trained engineer) | Load a saved Service Profile or enter values in a visual form |
| Change control logic | Reprogram function blocks, re-validate | Swap service template — minutes, not days |
| Deploy to process | Commission, test, validate — weeks | Add service to process; it appears in Recipe Designer — minutes |
| Try a different strategy | New engineering engagement | Select a different service / apply a different profile — instant |
Time-to-Deploy for Experiment Strategy Changes
| Scenario | DeltaV Time | QB Control Time | QB Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Switch pH control from CO₂+Base to Acid+Base | 1–2 weeks (reprogram, test, validate) | 5 minutes (swap service template) | ~200× faster |
| Add foam control to an existing process | 1–2 weeks (new I/O, programming, commissioning) | 10 minutes (add service + connect foam sensor) | ~150× faster |
| Change temperature control from setpoint to ramp | Days (modify function blocks) | 2 minutes (change parameters or swap template) | ~500× faster |
| Deploy a completely new experimental strategy | 4–8 weeks (full engineering cycle) | 1–2 hours (select services, build recipe, validate) | ~200× faster |
| Replicate a proven setup to a new bioreactor | 2–4 weeks (copy, adapt, re-validate) | 15 minutes (Process Import/Export + device mapping + Profiles) | ~100× faster |
This is a capability DeltaV simply cannot match at the lab/pilot scale. DeltaV requires engineering effort for every control strategy change; QB Control makes it a catalog selection.
8. Recipe Engine
Overview
The Recipe Module is the core automation engine of QB Control. It translates biotechnological protocols into executable digital workflows by combining logic blocks and Services (hardware actions), through three integrated boards: Designer Board (create/edit), Batch Board (configure/execute), and Executions Board (monitor history).
8.1 Designer Board & the Unified Block Library
The Designer Board is a visual, drag-and-drop workspace for building process logic as a connected flow. QB Control consolidates the previous per-service blocks into a unified block library with built-in grouping, descriptions, tooltips, and embedded in-app guidance:
| Block | Category | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Start Service | Service Control | Single configurable block (replaces many per-service start blocks); pick the service at configuration; supports Autocomplete (run-to-completion) and Continuous (keep running) |
| Stop Service | Service Control | Explicitly stop a continuous service later in the flow |
| Update Service Inputs | Service Control | Change service input values mid-execution (startup vs. runtime-adjustable inputs kept separate) |
| Service Profile support | Service Control | Start/Update blocks accept preset profile configurations; profile values labeled in execution review |
| Manual Operation | Operations | Pause for operator-driven action where supervised intervention is required |
| Variable / Update Variables | Variables | Declare named values (boolean, text, number, time); update with increase / decrease / multiply / divide |
| Timer | Timing | Shared timer control with start / stop / pause / resume modes |
| Set Valve State | Equipment commands | Command valve positions directly as part of the sequence |
| Conditional | Logic & flow | Evaluate real-time variables with AND / OR expressions |
| Counter | Logic & flow | Loop control with iteration count |
| PID | Logic & flow | Inline PID-oriented control block |
| Polygon | Logic & flow | Piecewise-linear mapping (X→Y) for ramps and profiles |
| Split / Merge | Logic & flow | Fork into parallel paths and join them back together |
| Wait / Wait Until / Start / Stop / End | Standard | Time-based pause, condition-based pause, and execution control |
Authoring productivity: copy/paste of blocks, signal filtering for cleaner input selection, undo/redo, diagram export (image), and recipe import/export across installations. The designer flags inactive recipes that should not be started as-is.
Recipe state lifecycle: Draft → Verified → Validated → Hold → Archived. Critically, only Verified or Validated recipes can run in batches — not just Validated — which streamlines development without weakening control.
8.2 Batch Board
- Create batches for processes and assign single or multiple recipes per batch
- Real-time view to monitor and control execution (stop, pause, resume)
- Sequential batch execution with Pending status for queued batches and auto-stop configuration per batch
- Edit parameters from the execution board where permitted — no round-trip to the designer mid-run
- Step execution counts and live recipe status updates
8.3 Executions Board
- List of executed batches with start/finish time, status, and configuration
- Statuses: During Execution, Paused, Hold, Pending, Completed, Failed, Aborted
- Filter by System, Process, Status; export list to CSV; export recipe flow to PNG
- Direct links to the live view of currently executing recipes
8.4 Validation & Safety
- The Validator — visual workspace for verifying recipe logic before execution
- Automated pre-start validations prevent batch collisions, unauthorized recipe starts, and execution on disconnected hardware
- Mandatory pre-execution checklist forces operators to verify critical lab elements (tubing integrity, media preparation) before start
- License guard — creating, duplicating, or importing recipes is blocked when the recipe license limit is reached
- Emergency integration — runs hold or abort safely when a P-Stop or global E-Stop is active
8.5 Recipe Engine vs. DeltaV Batch — Detailed Comparison
| Capability | DeltaV Batch | QB Control Recipe Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Workflow design | IEC 61131-3 + ISA-88 procedural model (trained engineer) | Visual drag-and-drop Designer Board (no coding) |
| Parallel execution | Batch Executive with unit arbitration | Split/Merge blocks for parallel paths |
| Sequential campaigns | Campaign Manager | Sequential batches with Pending queue + auto-stop |
| Conditional logic | Sequential Function Charts | Conditional blocks with AND/OR on real-time data |
| Variables & math | Custom function blocks | Variable / Update Variables (increase/decrease/multiply/divide) |
| Timers | Phase logic | Timer block (start/stop/pause/resume) |
| Human-in-the-loop | Manual phase prompts | Manual Operation block |
| Execution monitoring | DeltaV Batch operator interface | Batch Board with real-time, color-coded status |
| Recipe versioning | Batch recipe library + approvals | Draft → Verified → Validated → Hold → Archived |
| Pre-execution safety | Operator checklist (configurable) | Mandatory checklist + Validator (system-enforced) |
| Ramp/profile control | Custom function blocks | Polygon block + service ramp parameters |
| Diagram export | Not standard | Export as image / PNG for compliance docs |
| Time to create recipe | Hours to days | Minutes to hours (visual, no-code) |
9. Regulatory Compliance
| Standard | DeltaV | QB Control | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| FDA 21 CFR Part 11 | ✅ Full compliance | ⚠️ Partial conformance | DeltaV: full (with e-sigs). QB: electronic records, audit trails, access control, user management today — electronic signatures not yet covered |
| EU Annex 11 | ✅ Full compliance | ✅ Compliance support | Both provide computerized-system validation capabilities |
| GAMP 5 | Category 5 (custom) | Category 4 (configurable) | QB Control has lower validation burden — no custom code to validate |
| ISA-18.2 (Alarms) | ✅ Full compliance | ✅ Conformance | Both support suppressed, out-of-service, acknowledgement workflows |
| ISA-88 (Batch) | ✅ Full compliance (best-in-class) | ⚠️ Follows batch concepts; not formally ISA-88 certified | DeltaV stronger for formal ISA-88 compliance |
| ALCOA+ (Data Integrity) | ✅ Full implementation | ✅ Full implementation | Both provide ALCOA+ data integrity |
| Electronic Signatures | ✅ Built-in | ◐ On roadmap (Q3 2026 — not in current version) | DeltaV leads; QB planned |
| Audit Trail | ✅ Event Chronicle (immutable) | ✅ Immutable, exportable (CSV), cross-module, searchable | Both comprehensive |
| Safe Position Logic (GMP) | Via interlock engineering | ✅ Built-in — define safe actuator states after restart/power cycle | QB has a dedicated, configurable feature |
| CE Marking | System-level | ✅ Per QB Module (EMC + Low Voltage Directive) | Each module ships its own Declaration of Conformity |
Compliance Value for QB Control
GAMP 5 Category 4 vs. Category 5 is the key differentiator. As configurable (not custom) software, QB Control needs a reduced validation scope and standardized test scripts rather than full custom IQ/OQ/PQ — roughly 50–70% less validation effort, faster time to GMP-ready operation, lower CSV cost, and simpler change management (configuration, not code).
Honest Compliance Caveat
QB Control’s 21 CFR Part 11 conformance is partial: it delivers electronic records, audit trails, access control, and user management today, but electronic signatures are not yet implemented (roadmapped for Q3 2026). For workflows that require digital signatures on an active IND today, DeltaV remains the safer choice until QB Control’s e-signature release. Do not represent QB Control as fully 21 CFR Part 11 compliant.
10. Pricing, Licensing & TCO
Direct Cost Comparison
| Cost Component | DeltaV | QB Control | Savings with QB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level System | ~$50,000 (PK Controller + minimal I/O + license) | QB Edge + basic modules + license: ~$15,000–25,000 | 50–70% |
| Typical Lab Setup (4 bioreactors) | ~$150,000–$250,000 | 4× bioreactor module sets + QB Edge + license: ~$60,000–85,000 | 57–72% |
| 6-Bioreactor Lab Setup | ~$300,000–$400,000 | 6× bioreactor module sets + QB Edge(s) + license: ~$100,000 | 67–75% |
| Pilot Setup (8–12 bioreactors) | ~$400,000–$600,000+ | 8–12× module sets + QB Edge(s)/switches + license: ~$150,000–250,000 | 50–63% |
| System Integrator Cost | $50,000–$200,000+ per project | $0 (self-setup, plug-and-play) | 100% |
| Workstation Hardware | Dell-only, $5,000–$15,000 per station | $0 (any existing device with a browser) | 100% |
| Software License | I/O-based + FDM modules (recurring/subscription) | Perpetual license (one-time purchase) | Significantly lower long-term |
| Training | 4+ days formal training ($5,000–$15,000) | QB Systems Online Portal + documentation — self-paced | 80–90% |
| Validation (GAMP 5) | Category 5 — extensive IQ/OQ/PQ ($50,000–$200,000) | Category 4 — reduced scope ($10,000–$50,000) | 50–75% |
| Wiring & Installation | Marshalling cabinets, cable trays, terminations | PoE — one cable per module (benchtop) | 80–90% |
Total Cost of Ownership (5-Year Projection)
Scenario: 6-bioreactor parallel upstream processing lab
| TCO Component | DeltaV (5-Year) | QB Control (5-Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware (QB Modules + QB Edge) | $200,000 | $100,000 |
| Software licensing | $100,000 (recurring annual) | $30,000 (perpetual, one-time) |
| Paid support & maintenance | $150,000 (~$30K/yr) | $25,000 (tiered support plan) |
| System integration | $120,000 | $0 |
| Installation & wiring | $40,000 | $5,000 |
| Validation | $80,000 | $20,000 |
| Training | $30,000 (formal classroom) | $5,000 (Online Portal, self-paced) |
| TOTAL | ~$720,000 | ~$185,000 |
| ~74% lower TCO |
Licensing Model Comparison
| Aspect | DeltaV | QB Control |
|---|---|---|
| Model | I/O count + Feature Descriptor Modules + per-workstation; recurring fees | Perpetual license — feature-, device-, system/process-, and time-based dimensions |
| License Type | Subscription or term-based (annual renewal) | Perpetual — buy once; no recurring license fees |
| Support | Bundled or separate Guardian Support | Paid separately — tiered (Basic, Standard, Premium), client’s choice |
| Additional Features | Add FDM cost per feature | Priced transparently upon request |
| Enforcement | Proprietary dongle ($50K–$300K) | Software license bound to the deployment host; license-aware UI and guards surface limits |
| Lock-In | Tied to Emerson hardware | Not tied to a specific hardware vendor |
| Hardware Dependency | Dell-only workstations; Emerson controllers | Any browser-capable device; QB Edge or industrial PC |
Licensing Model — Key Client Value
- No recurring license fees — the perpetual license does not expire, eliminating DeltaV’s annual licensing burden ($20K–$50K/year for typical lab setups)
- Paid support is optional and tiered — no forced bundling
- Additional capabilities priced transparently on request, not hidden behind opaque FDM modules
- Predictable budgeting — one-time license + optional support
- No “license hostage” risk — perpetual model means a lapsed contract never locks you out of your own system
11. Industry Fit Analysis
Biotech (Lab & Pilot Scale)
| Criterion | DeltaV | QB Control | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cell culture (150 mL–10 L) | Over-engineered | Purpose-built | QB Control |
| Fermentation (1–50 L) | Capable but expensive | Native support | QB Control |
| Parallel bioreactors (lab) | 32 per network (Discovery) | Multiple processes, auto-generated P&IDs | QB Control (simpler, cheaper) |
| Stainless-steel pilot (PLC) | Full DCS | Industrial-PC deployment + OPC-UA (new) | QB Control (right-sized) |
| Process development / DoE | DeltaV Discovery (expensive) | Rapid reconfiguration, import/export | QB Control |
| Single-use bioprocessing | Sartorius STR Gen 3 integration | Native SU pump heads, SU pressure sensors | QB Control (more flexible) |
| Production scale (>200 L, multi-train) | Full production-grade DCS | Single-site focus | DeltaV |
| Technology transfer to CMO | ISA-88 recipe portability | Process/recipe import/export + device mapping | DeltaV (industry standard) |
Pharmaceuticals
| Criterion | DeltaV | QB Control | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| R&D lab automation | Over-engineered | Right-sized | QB Control |
| Process development | Good but expensive | Faster iteration, lower cost | QB Control |
| QC lab automation | Not typical use case | Good fit | QB Control |
| GMP production (small scale) | Full compliance | CFR Part 11 partial (no e-sigs yet) | DeltaV (e-sigs today) |
| GMP production (large scale) | Proven at scale | Not designed for this | DeltaV |
| Continuous manufacturing | DeltaV MPC + PAT | Not supported | DeltaV |
Cosmetics
| Criterion | DeltaV | QB Control | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formulation development | ISA-88 batch — overkill | Visual recipe designer — right-sized | QB Control |
| Small batch production | Capable but expensive | Affordable with compliance support | QB Control |
| Multi-product flexibility | Good batch engine | Process reconfiguration in minutes | QB Control |
| Scale-up to production | Proven path | Limited to pilot/early production | DeltaV |
Academic / Research
| Criterion | DeltaV | QB Control | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teaching labs | Far too expensive | Affordable, visual, intuitive | QB Control |
| Research bioprocessing | Expensive, slow to set up | Fast, modular, reconfigurable | QB Control |
| Multi-student access | Licensed per workstation | Any browser, multi-user concurrent | QB Control |
| Publication-ready data | Historian + Batch Analytics | Graphs export (SVG, PNG, CSV) + Reports (PDF, DOCX) | Tie |
12. What QB Control Can Replace
Full Replacement Scenarios
1. Lab-Scale Bioreactor Control (150 mL–10 L) — DeltaV Discovery / PK Controller → QB Edge + QB Modules. Value: 90% cost reduction, days vs. months setup, no SI, browser-based access.
2. Parallel Small-Scale Fermentation — DeltaV Discovery 32-bioreactor network → QB Control multi-process with QB Multiagitator. Value: plug-and-play parallel, auto-generated P&ID per process, sequential auto-stop campaigns, lower incremental cost per vessel.
3. Stainless-Steel Pilot Cells with Existing PLCs (new) — DeltaV controller layer → QB Control on an industrial PC integrating the PLC via OPC-UA + the OPC UA Connector. Value: reuse field hardware, no DCS license, no SI re-engineering.
4. Automated Sampling Systems — DeltaV + custom sampling → QB Selector Valve (24 positions) + QB Syringe Pump + recipe. Value: native sampling workflow, visual recipe design.
5. Media Preparation Stations — DeltaV batch → QB Pumps + Scales + Agitator + recipe. Value: modular, reconfigurable, fraction of cost.
6. pH/DO/Temperature Control Loops — DeltaV PID loops with HART/Fieldbus sensors → QB Multisensor (Hamilton/MT) + QB Gasflow + QB Thermo + services. Value: native sensor integration, no adapters, no Fieldbus complexity.
7. Process Development & DoE — DeltaV configuration + engineering → QB Control process import/export + device mapping + rapid reconfiguration. Value: change setups in minutes, run different configs on parallel vessels.
8. Single-Use Bioprocessing — DeltaV with Sartorius STR Gen 3 → QB Modules with SU pump heads and SU pressure sensors. Value: more vendor flexibility, lower cost, simpler setup.
Partial Replacement Scenarios
9. Pilot-to-Early-Production Upstream (10–200 L) — QB Control handles monitoring, control, and automation; DeltaV may still be needed for complex cascade control or MPC. Value: QB Control as primary platform with an OPC-UA bridge to DeltaV for advanced functions.
10. Small-Scale GMP Production — QB Control provides partial 21 CFR Part 11 conformance (records, audit trails, RBAC, data integrity; e-signatures on roadmap). Value: lower validation burden (GAMP 5 Category 4), but may require additional qualification documentation and an e-signature bridge until Q3 2026.
13. Where QB Control Creates Superior Value
13.1 Time-to-Process
| Metric | DeltaV | QB Control | Improvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| System setup | 14+ weeks | < 1 week | 93% faster |
| Add a bioreactor | 2–4 weeks | < 1 day | 95% faster |
| Recipe modification | Hours (qualified engineer) | Minutes (visual drag-and-drop) | 90% faster |
| New process configuration | Days–weeks | Hours (import/export or visual config) | 80% faster |
13.2 Value Summary
Each pillar is detailed in the section noted; in brief, QB Control delivers:
- Lowest TCO — ~74% lower 5-year cost for a 6-bioreactor lab, perpetual license, no system integrator, no dedicated workstations (§10).
- No vendor lock-in — open sensors and consumables, open protocols, or reuse of existing PLCs (§5).
- Operational simplicity — browser-based, auto-discovery, no-code recipes, multi-user access, and a single Health Monitoring dashboard (§3, §6).
- Instant strategy changes — ~40 pre-built services and reusable Service Profiles let scientists swap a control strategy in minutes (§7).
- Modern, open integration — native OPC-UA, REST, MQTT, SQL, MTP, and secure remote access with QR-code setup (§5).
- Right-sized safety & governance — P-Stop/E-Stop, Safe Position Logic, and a mandatory pre-execution checklist + Validator (§8).
14. Gaps & Limitations
DeltaV Capabilities Not Available in QB Control
| Capability | DeltaV | QB Control | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Predictive Control (MPC) | PredictPro (40 in/80 out, economic optimizer) | Not available | High |
| PAT Integration | Spectral PAT (embedded chemometrics) | Not available | High |
| Digital Twin / Simulation | DeltaV Mimic 6.LTS | Not available | Medium |
| ISA-88 Full Compliance | Best-in-class, formally certified | Follows batch concepts; not formally certified | Medium |
| MES Integration | Syncade (native EBR, ERP/LIMS/CMMS) | REST API integration point | Medium |
| AI/ML | Neural, Revamp, AI portfolio | Not available | Medium |
| Production Scale (>200 L, multi-train) | Proven at 20,000+ L | Single-site, lab-to-pilot/early-production focus | High |
| Enterprise Multi-Site | Multi-site with enterprise historian | Single-site (networkable) | High |
| Electronic Signatures | Built-in | On roadmap (Q3 2026) | High for regulated production today |
| SIL-rated Safety | SIS integration | Not SIL-rated | Medium |
| Foundation Fieldbus | Native | Not supported | Low (declining protocol) |
| Batch Analytics | Cross-batch statistical analysis | CSV export for external analysis | Medium |
Honest Assessment of QB Control Limitations
- Scale ceiling — optimized for lab-to-pilot and early stainless-steel production; very large multi-train production still favors a full DCS
- No MPC — multivariable predictive control with an economic optimizer is not available
- No PAT — inline spectral analysis and chemometric models are not embedded
- No digital twin — simulation and operator-training capabilities are absent
- No native MES — electronic batch records require integration with an external MES
- No electronic signatures yet — 21 CFR Part 11 conformance is partial until the Q3 2026 release
- ISA-88 not formally certified — QB Control follows batch concepts but is not formally certified, which some large pharma may require
- Liquid-handling focus — QB Control does not address gas-phase, solid-phase, or complex hybrid processes
15. Migration & Replacement Scenarios
Scenario A: Greenfield Lab (No Existing DeltaV)
Recommendation: QB Control. New lab from scratch = no migration, no legacy. QB Control provides everything needed for lab/pilot bioprocessing, ~80% cost savings vs. DeltaV, operational in days.
Scenario B: DeltaV Lab Seeking Modernization
Recommendation: QB Control replacement. Replace DeltaV Discovery / PK lab systems with QB Control; maintain DeltaV for any connected production systems; bridge via OPC-UA if needed. ROI typically recovered in <12 months through eliminated license/support costs.
Scenario C: Stainless-Steel Pilot Cell with an Existing PLC
Recommendation: QB Control on an industrial PC. Deploy QB Control on an industrial PC, integrate the existing PLC over OPC-UA via the OPC UA Connector, and keep the field instruments. Value: DCS-class supervisory control and recipes without the DCS price, lock-in, or SI re-engineering.
Scenario D: Expanding Parallel Capacity
Recommendation: QB Control for new vessels. Keep existing DeltaV for current bioreactors; add parallel capacity with QB Control + QB Modules; no impact on validated DeltaV systems; OPC-UA bridge for unified data if needed.
Scenario E: CDMO Scaling Up Client Projects
Recommendation: QB Control for client-facing process development. Rapid setup/teardown for different client processes; process import/export + device mapping for fast replication; lower cost per project = higher margins; DeltaV retained for production-scale manufacturing.
Scenario F: Academic / Research Institution
Recommendation: QB Control (full replacement). DeltaV is prohibitively expensive for teaching/research; QB Control provides professional-grade control at accessible cost, multi-student browser access (no per-seat licensing), and modular hardware for curriculum flexibility.
16. Competitive Positioning Strategy
Positioning Statement
QB Control is not competing with DeltaV. QB Control is replacing the portion of DeltaV that was never designed for lab and pilot-scale bioprocessing. DeltaV is a plant-wide DCS built for enterprise manufacturing. QB Control is a modular SCADA platform built specifically for the bench, the hood, the pilot hall — and now, with its industrial-PC deployment, the stainless-steel pilot cell that already has a PLC. When a lab spends $720K over 5 years on DeltaV to run 6 bioreactors, they’re buying a Boeing 747 to commute to work. QB Control delivers the same capability for $185K with a perpetual license and a Services Catalog that lets scientists change experimental strategies in minutes, not weeks.
Key Sales Arguments Against DeltaV
| DeltaV Pain Point | QB Control Advantage | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| ”DeltaV costs $300K+ for a 6-bioreactor lab” | Complete 6-bioreactor lab for ~$100K hardware + perpetual license | ~74% lower 5-year TCO |
| ”DeltaV license fees never stop” | Perpetual license — buy once, use forever | No recurring license costs |
| ”Changing our pH control strategy takes weeks” | Swap a service template in 5 minutes | ~200× faster strategy changes |
| ”We waited 14 weeks for our DeltaV system” | Unbox Monday, first experiment Friday | Plug-and-play, auto-discovery |
| ”We need a system integrator for any change” | Visual recipe designer + Services Catalog, self-service | No coding, no SI dependency |
| ”DeltaV requires Dell workstations” | Any browser on any device | Zero client infrastructure |
| ”Our OPC Fieldbus keeps failing” | PoE auto-discovery; or clean OPC-UA to your PLC | Zero Fieldbus complexity |
| ”DeltaV validation took 6 months” | GAMP 5 Cat. 4, validated in weeks | 50–75% validation reduction |
| ”We’re locked into Emerson’s ecosystem” | Open sensors, open consumables, open protocols, MTP | No vendor lock-in at any level |
| ”We can’t access the system remotely without IT” | Secure remote access with QR-code setup | Phone/tablet/PC, role-based |
| ”Adding a bioreactor costs $50K+“ | Add modules + expand license (one-time) | Fraction of incremental cost |
When NOT to Position Against DeltaV
Do NOT position QB Control against DeltaV when the client needs:
- Production-scale, multi-train manufacturing (>200 L)
- Model Predictive Control or advanced process optimization
- PAT/spectral integration for continuous manufacturing
- Enterprise multi-site DCS deployment
- Safety Instrumented Systems (SIL-rated)
- Formal ISA-88 certification
- Electronic signatures on an active IND today (before QB Control’s Q3 2026 release)
- Integration with existing plant-wide MES/ERP
In these cases, position QB Control as complementary to DeltaV — handling lab/pilot while DeltaV handles production.
17. Feature-by-Feature Matrix
| # | Feature | DeltaV | QB Control | QB Advantage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CORE CONTROL | |||||
| 1 | Bioreactor control | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | DeltaV: MPC; QB: PID-based services | |
| 2 | Mixer/agitator control | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB native agitator modules (up to 6 vessels) |
| 3 | Pump control | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: 4 pump types native + SmartPump OPC |
| 4 | Sampler control | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: native selector valve (24 positions) |
| 5 | Gas flow control | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | QB native; DeltaV 3rd-party | |
| 6 | Temperature control | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | DeltaV: broader range; QB: 2–42 °C | |
| 7 | Valve control | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: Set Valve State block + three-way valves |
| 8 | Scale/weight measurement | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: native multiscale (6 channels) |
| 9 | Foam detection | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: patent-pending optical sensor |
| 10 | LED/light control | ★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | DeltaV: not in ecosystem; QB: native |
| PARALLEL PROCESSING | |||||
| 11 | Multi-device parallel | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | DeltaV: more vessels at scale | |
| 12 | Sequential campaign queuing | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | QB: Pending queue + auto-stop (new) | |
| 13 | Auto-generated P&ID per process | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB auto-generates; DeltaV manual |
| 14 | Process import/export + device mapping | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: one-click replication + remap |
| 15 | Multi-user concurrent access | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: any browser; DeltaV: licensed stations |
| RECIPE, BATCH & SERVICES | |||||
| 16 | Recipe management | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | DeltaV: ISA-88 formal; QB: visual | |
| 17 | Visual recipe designer | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: drag-and-drop, no coding |
| 18 | Recipe versioning | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: Draft→Verified→Validated→Hold→Archived |
| 19 | Services Catalog | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: ~40 services across 10 categories; DeltaV: none |
| 20 | Service Profiles (reusable params) | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: grouped/atomic + portable import/export |
| 21 | Variables / Timer / Manual blocks | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: unified block library (new) |
| 22 | Strategy switching speed | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: swap service in minutes |
| 23 | Batch Board (execution tracking) | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Both strong; QB adds flow-diagram export | |
| 24 | Pre-execution safety checklist | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: mandatory + Validator (system-enforced) |
| 25 | Campaign / batch analytics | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | DeltaV: built-in analytics | |
| INTEGRATION | |||||
| 26 | OPC UA | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: native + dedicated OPC UA Connector |
| 27 | REST API | ★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB native; DeltaV lacks |
| 28 | MQTT | ★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB native; DeltaV needs gateway |
| 29 | SQL access | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB native JDBC/ODBC |
| 30 | LDAP/AD SSO | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB native; DeltaV via Windows |
| 31 | MTP support | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | Both support; DeltaV more mature tooling | |
| 32 | Hamilton / Mettler Toledo sensors | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: direct via Modbus RS485 |
| 33 | PLC reuse (Wago/Siemens/Beckhoff) | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: industrial-PC deployment (new) |
| COMPLIANCE | |||||
| 34 | 21 CFR Part 11 | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ⚠️ | DeltaV full; QB partial (no e-sigs yet) |
| 35 | GAMP 5 classification | Cat. 5 | Cat. 4 | ✅ | QB: lower validation burden |
| 36 | ISA-18.2 alarms | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | Both conform | |
| 37 | Audit trail | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Both comprehensive | |
| 38 | Electronic signatures | ★★★★★ | ★★ | ⚠️ | DeltaV full; QB roadmap Q3 2026 |
| 39 | Safe Position Logic (GMP) | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: built-in configurable feature |
| USABILITY & OPS | |||||
| 40 | Setup time | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: 93% faster |
| 41 | Learning curve | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: no formal training needed |
| 42 | Documentation quality | ★★ | ★★★★ | ✅ | DeltaV docs criticized; QB browser help + portal |
| 43 | Client device flexibility | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: any browser; DeltaV Dell-only |
| 44 | Remote access | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: secure VPN + QR setup (new) |
| 45 | Health monitoring dashboard | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: consolidated module/host health (new) |
| 46 | Configuration approach | ★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: visual, no code |
| COST & LICENSING | |||||
| 47 | Initial investment | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | 67–75% lower (6-bioreactor) |
| 48 | 5-year TCO | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | ~74% lower TCO |
| 49 | License model | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB perpetual; DeltaV recurring |
| 50 | Incremental expansion cost | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | Fraction of cost |
| 51 | SI dependency | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: self-service |
| 52 | Vendor lock-in | ★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | QB: open ecosystem |
| ADVANCED CAPABILITIES | |||||
| 53 | MPC | ★★★★★ | ❌ | DeltaV exclusive | |
| 54 | PAT spectral | ★★★★★ | ❌ | DeltaV exclusive | |
| 55 | Digital twin | ★★★★ | ❌ | DeltaV exclusive | |
| 56 | MES | ★★★★★ | ★★ | DeltaV: native Syncade | |
| 57 | AI/ML | ★★★★ | ❌ | DeltaV exclusive | |
| 58 | SIL safety | ★★★★ | ❌ | DeltaV exclusive | |
| 59 | Enterprise multi-site | ★★★★★ | ★★ | DeltaV exclusive |
Summary Scores by Category
| Category | DeltaV Average | QB Control Average | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Control | 3.9 | 4.5 | QB Control |
| Parallel Processing | 3.8 | 4.6 | QB Control |
| Recipe, Batch & Services | 3.5 | 4.7 | QB Control |
| Integration | 2.9 | 4.8 | QB Control |
| Compliance | 4.6 | 4.3 | DeltaV (e-sigs today) |
| Usability & Ops | 2.4 | 4.9 | QB Control |
| Cost & Licensing | 2.0 | 5.0 | QB Control |
| Advanced Capabilities | 4.5 | 0.3 | DeltaV |
Overall: QB Control wins in 6 of 8 categories for the target lab/pilot/early-production market. With its unified recipe block library, sequential auto-stop campaigns, native MTP, secure remote access, Health Monitoring, and the industrial-PC deployment path, QB Control’s lead in Recipe/Batch, Integration, Usability, and Cost widens. DeltaV retains the lead in compliance maturity (electronic signatures today) and advanced capabilities (MPC, PAT, Digital Twin) — primarily relevant at production scale.
Recent QB Control Enhancements (current release)
The current QB Control release adds the capabilities referenced in this comparison (reflecting the current QB Control release):
- Batch scheduling — recurring (daily / weekly / interval) or one-time run schedules per batch, with a calendar view, named schedules, skip-on-conflict handling, and matching audit-trail records.
- Recipe portability — a recipe can be reassigned to a different process, automatically remapping its devices and services so a proven design moves between similar lines instead of being rebuilt.
- Equipment changes from the P&ID — lab equipment can be added directly in the P&ID editor (auto-creating the matching inventory and process records), with freeform note elements and anchor-point piping connections; lab equipment can also be added or removed on already-deployed processes without creating a new process version.
- Embedded OPC UA server — the OPC UA Connector can now run its own embedded OPC UA server, letting external OPC UA clients (e.g., MES, historians) read from QB Control directly.
- Expanded catalog — six additional tangential-flow (cross-flow) filtration services and six new lab-equipment types (including cooling chamber, filter cassette, hollow-fiber filter, and vials holder).
- Operations & safety — an alarm watchdog reconciling alarm state against live equipment values every 30 seconds; calibration that reserves the device during calibration (blocking conflicting operations); Protect / Interlock faceplate safeguards; audit-trail events filtered to the active license; and license-aware controls shown with explanatory tooltips.
- Usability — an in-app Help section with guided walkthroughs and searchable content across every module; search across inventory tables; and Health Monitoring showing system start time and uptime.
Legal Notice & Disclaimer
Versions compared. This comparison is between QB Control (release 6.x, per the current QB Control release notes) and Emerson DeltaV™ version 16.LTS (latest publicly announced release). Feature statements in this document refer to these versions.
Accuracy and currency. The information provided in this comparison is based on publicly available data gathered on 20 July 2026. While we strive to keep this information accurate and up to date, product features, pricing, and terms are subject to change by the respective manufacturers. We make no warranties regarding the absolute accuracy of the competitor data, and a later release may add, change, or remove capabilities described here.
Trademarks. All trademarks, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product, and service names used in this document are for identification and comparison purposes only, and use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement or affiliation. DeltaV™, DeltaV™ Live, DeltaV™ Batch, Electronic Marshalling™, CHARMs™, and Emerson™ are trademarks of Emerson Electric Co. QB Control and QB Systems are brands of A4BEE Sp. z o.o.
Transparency note. This comparison is prepared, owned, and operated by A4BEE Sp. z o.o., the creators of QB Systems and QB Control. It was created to highlight how our product differs from other options on the market, based on objective, verifiable features.
Purpose and limitation of liability. This comparison is provided for informational and educational purposes only, to help readers build knowledge of the options available to them. It is not an assessment, audit, ranking, benchmark, or endorsement of the technical expertise, quality, safety, or performance of Emerson DeltaV™ or its vendor. A4BEE Sp. z o.o. assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content, nor for any decisions made based on this information; any reliance on the comparison is at the reader’s own risk.
Comparative-advertising basis. This document is intended to align with applicable comparative-advertising and fair-use rules, including EU Directive 2006/114/EC and US nominative-fair-use principles: it compares products intended for the same needs, relies on material, relevant, verifiable, and representative features, and is not intended to mislead or to denigrate any competitor. Where a competitor capability could not be verified from public sources, it is identified as such. If you believe any statement is inaccurate or out of date, please contact [email protected] and it will be reviewed and corrected promptly.
Assumptions
To keep the comparison transparent and fair, the following assumptions and estimates were applied:
- Third-party capabilities are interpreted from public vendor datasheets, brochures, manuals, and websites current at the analysis date. Where a capability was not clearly documented publicly, it is described as such (“not clearly documented,” “appears limited,” etc.) rather than asserted or denied.
- Competitor pricing and total-cost-of-ownership figures are indicative estimates derived from public information and typical configurations — not vendor quotations or list prices.
- QB Control reference figures are indicative, based on past quotations, and do not constitute a specific priced offer.
- The comparison assumes a lab-to-pilot bioprocessing context (roughly 150 mL–50 L, plus stainless-steel pilot/production via PLC over OPC-UA); conclusions may differ at large multi-train production scale.
- “QB Control” reflects the current released version at the analysis date; third-party products reflect the newest versions identified in public sources.
Sources
QB Control capabilities referenced in this document reflect QB Control release 6.x (current release).
Product and brand names listed below are trademarks of their respective owners (attributed in the Legal Notice & Disclaimer) and are used here for identification and comparison purposes only.
- Emerson DeltaV™ DCS Platform
- DeltaV™ Batch Control & Operations
- DeltaV™ Spectral PAT
- DeltaV™ Live (HMI)
- DeltaV™ PK Controller FAQ
- DeltaV™ Electronic Marshalling (CHARMs™)
- DeltaV™ Flex System (subscription)
- DeltaV™ v16.LTS announcement
- Sartorius Biostat STR Gen 3 with DeltaV™
- Applikon V-Control (Getinge)
- Cytiva Figurate with DeltaV™
- Control.com — DeltaV™ reviews & user feedback
- CISA DeltaV™ ICS advisories
Analysis prepared July 2026 | Version 1.0 (v1-July) | QB Systems vs. DeltaV competitive positioning QB Systems — Flexible. Innovative. Limitless. | A product brand of A4BEE Sp. z o.o. | https://qb.systems