Advantech reveals IoT control systems, equipped with assured real-time functionality and adaptability
Advantech, a leading provider of industrial automation solutions, has introduced the AMAX IoT Control Platform. This unified, PC-based industrial control solution integrates Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Human Machine Interface (HMI), and Internet of Things (IoT) functions into a single software-defined system.
Deterministic Real-Time Performance
The AMAX platform achieves microsecond-level precision, crucial for precision automation in industries like semiconductor manufacturing, high-speed assembly, and vision-integrated production. This is made possible through the use of EtherCAT industrial Ethernet and real-time operating systems.
Unified Control Architecture
By combining traditionally separate PLCs, HMIs, and communication modules into one platform, AMAX simplifies system integration, reduces fragmentation, and eliminates performance bottlenecks.
Flexible Software Environment
Built on the CODESYS framework supporting both Windows and Linux runtimes, and utilizing the IEC 61131-3 programming standard, AMAX enables seamless migration from traditional PLCs and supports advanced motion control and robotics applications.
Scalable, Targeted Controller Portfolio
The AMAX family offers a scalable controller portfolio with three categories: Panel Controllers, Industrial PC Controllers, and Embedded Controllers, each optimized for specific applications.
- Panel Controllers (AMAX-PT series): Intel Core and Atom processors with versatile displays make them ideal for HMI-centric factory automation.
- Industrial PC Controllers (AMAX-7 series): High expandability and extensive I/O interfaces support complex manufacturing processes and vision inspection.
- Embedded Controllers (AMAX-5 series): Compact designs with flexible expansion options are perfect for edge data acquisition and medium-complexity control applications.
Extensive Connectivity
The AMAX platform supports comprehensive EtherCAT I/O expansion and multiple industrial communication protocols including MQTT, OPC UA, CANOpen, and Modbus, facilitating legacy automation integration and IoT data connectivity.
Applications
Precision Automation
The AMAX platform enables high-speed, high-precision control needed in semiconductor fabs, automated assembly lines, and vision-guided systems by ensuring deterministic timing and unified control.
Energy Storage Systems
Although not detailed in the sources, the platform’s real-time control, expandability, and IoT connectivity make it well-suited for managing complex energy storage operations that require integrated control and monitoring.
Advanced Machinery
The scalable controller options, combined with support for motion control, robotics, and vision systems, cater to modern smart manufacturing equipment demanding flexible, high-performance control architectures.
In summary, Advantech’s AMAX IoT Control Platform offers an integrated, real-time capable, and flexible solution designed to streamline industrial automation, enabling precision control and IoT integration across sectors like precision automation, energy storage, and advanced machinery. This is achieved through a unified software-defined platform with robust hardware scalability and extensive communication support.
Each platform delivers real-time performance through Advantech's proven optimization approach, integrating Intel Time Coordinated Computing (TCC) technology and specialized BIOS engineering for minimal jitter and cycle times of 500 µs to 1ms.
AMAX IoT Control Platforms are available now, and more information can be found on the Advantech website or by contacting local Advantech sales.
- The AMAX IoT Control Platform, a unified industrial control solution, combines technology like EtherCAT industrial Ethernet and real-time operating systems to achieve microsecond-level precision, crucial for precision automation in various industries.
- By utilizing the CODESYS framework supporting both Windows and Linux runtimes and the IEC 61131-3 programming standard, the AMAX platform enables seamless migration from traditional PLCs and supports advanced technology applications, such as motion control and robotics.
