Surface Automation : Surface Automation occurs when a Robot does a task by mimicking or using the keyboard, mouse, or clipboard, but without connecting directly to the application (particularly using the available connectors). Surface Automation is a type of automation that uses visual techniques such as image recognition, screenshots, and, in certain cases, OCR. Instead of using application-specific APIs and hooks, we leverage visual approaches in Surface automation.
Pros :
* The RPA application is not overloaded.
* Since the approach does not employ a direct connection to the external program, the external application's performance is never harmed by this type of automation.
* Consumes fewer resources (OS resources).
Cons :
* Coding necessitates more inspections and thorough testing.
* The connection analysis determines reliability.
Connector-Based Automation : Most applications have a defined way to connect to every RPA product. Essentially, product firms have created connections to handle those external applications as efficiently as possible. Most of the time, these interfaces are adequate for Robots to connect to external apps and do the needed duties. This approach is known as "Connector Based Automation."
Pros :
* Since connectors are included in the package, they are easier to use.
* Coding is simpler.
Cons :
* Connectors might cause the RPA application to become overloaded. More monitor application connectors mean more OS resources (mostly RAM) would be consumed.
* Connectors for Windows-based applications control the application via 'windows hooks.' Hooking into an application consumes memory and can cause the target application to become less responsive or lag.
* Connectors loaded throughout execution should be correctly released at the end. Improper coding causes garbage to accumulate in memory, resulting in a significant performance loss.
