Develop HMI without OPC provider, flip OPC tag references quickly

Do you have the project file for the PLC? If so, you might find this helpful:

(Read the whole topic for context.)

It might be helpful anyways if you are willing to create some datatypes and tags that follow the expected naming conventions of the finished project.

When you are done, you delete the EtherNet/IP Host Device and create the Logix device with the same name. Then your OPC tags will seamlessly switch to talking to the real thing.