Due to new, demanding applications such as image processing, control and regulation tasks or video analysis, computing power is playing an increasingly important role for embedded PCs, DIN rail PCs and industrial computers in general in production and plant control. At the same time, IT with its fast product cycles is finding its way into many additional areas of industry. This calls for flexible interface concepts. A wide range of products and the support of experienced experts are the only way to ensure that companies make the right choice for their automation projects. Aaronn Electronic supports here thanks to years of experience in the realization of different projects with advice on all these aspects in each case in the sense of the customer. To this end, we can draw on a wide range of products from our technology partner Advantech.
Flexibility has two dimensions in relation to embedded computers. On the one hand, the requirements for the type and number of interfaces are often very different even at the beginning of the project. The goal should always be to cover these with as few model variants as possible – ideally even with just one. This facilitates customization, supply of spare parts, expansion with additional devices, as well as maintenance and replacement.
In terms of flexibility, Advantech has some interesting features to show. These include the Flex I/O concept, the i-Module Series expansion modules, and the iDoor concept. The three approaches differ significantly and offer different advantages, but all serve the primary goal of maximum flexibility.
For example, Flex I/O is a fixed feature of the MIC-770 product series. These are two additional expansion slots that are always available and can be flexibly equipped: One Small Flex I/O and one Standard Flex I/O. For example, two additional LAN ports, a DVI connection or much more are possible. The advantage is that the expansions can be easily installed at a later date if required. And they complement the iDoor concept.
Advantech offers flexibility in terms of performance requirements with the expansion modules called i-Module Series. The actual industrial PC takes them “piggyback”, so to speak, if it needs additional resources for a specific task, for example an additional graphics card. The advantage of this concept is that companies can use a uniform device platform for different requirements – a “standard computer” defined according to their ideas, which is then used in the field with or without an expansion module, or with suitable expansion modules for different purposes. This is because they supplement the actual industrial PC as needed, but do not change its basic configuration.
The iDoor concept is based on the Mini PCIe standard. It features a Mini PCIe card and a PCIe expansion chassis to offer maximum flexibility in terms of interfaces. It ranges from fieldbus modules, sensors, WLAN and mobile radio to the connection of memory, displays and peripheral devices. In total, more than 100 interface combinations can be realized. Box PCs with a wide variety of extensions can thus be implemented quickly and easily on a standardized device basis.
Aaronn and Advantech ensure long-term availability for all industrial PCs offered and pay attention to compliance with strict quality guidelines. Moreover, Aaronn’s experts understand the requirements of the industry and assist in selecting products with the appropriate IP protection classes.
All of Aaronn’s proposed embedded box PCs for industrial automation have gone through Advantech’s demanding qualification process and are CE, FCC, UL and CCC certified. Dedicated, local technical design-in support by experienced Aaronn Electronic engineers ensures that even highly customized requirements are reliably implemented – even for small quantities. And by the way, the proven Aaronn motto “What doesn’t fit will be made to fit!” also applies to industrial PCs for automation.
In Europe, Aaronn has been one of Advantech’s most successful sales partners and system integrators for years. The world’s leading manufacturer in the area of embedded computer technology trusts in Aaronn’s customer focus and supports with the broadest portfolio in the ECT area.
Our team of experts will be happy to answer any questions you may have about industrial PCs for automation. Contact us today and let our service convince you.