Deprecated
This article describes in short what the differences are between these software packages, i.e among others based on their history.
App
- Has been introduced with ETS4.
- Is a software package that adds features to ETS, i.e. it is not device specific.
- Can only be invoked within an ETS project, i.e. project needs to be open (except for EIBlib/IP).
DCA
Has been introduced with ETS5.
Is a device specific App, i.e. the added functionality is not intended for general use.
Only one type exists: User Interface.
The added functionality is embedded.
Plug-in
Has been introduced with ETS2.
A plug-in adds device specific functionality to ETS.
3 types can be distinguished: User Interface, Download (Hawk) & Data Handler.
The added functionality is however NOT embedded.
Embedded: DCA advantages
Select e.g. a device in the ETS Topology list view (left side): an extra tab 'DCA' next to 'Group Objects', 'Channels' and 'Parameters' is added to the device list view (right side).
Multiple instance is supported (edit several copies in one go).
Same update system as ETS.
Same operating system support as ETS.