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Advantech Introduces AMAX IoT Control Platforms

Advantech, a prominent name in IoT intelligent systems and embedded platforms, has launched its latest innovation: the AMAX IoT Control Platform. This cutting-edge solution aims to redefine automation by integrating PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), HMI (Human-Machine Interface), and IoT capabilities into a single software-defined environment. Traditional automation setups often involve separate components that lead to integration headaches and performance inefficiencies, but AMAX seeks to eliminate these challenges by offering a streamlined alternative designed for precision automation applications.

Addressing Fragmentation in Automation

One significant hurdle in automation is the fragmentation observed where various PLCs, HMIs, and communication modules create complex and sometimes inefficient setups. With the AMAX platform, these separate functionalities are unified in a PC-based solution, ensuring high performance through EtherCAT industrial Ethernet and real-time operating systems. This integration enables microsecond-level precision essential for industries involving semiconductor manufacturing and high-speed assembly lines.

A Flexible Control Architecture

Built on the robust CODESYS framework, the AMAX platform supports both Windows and Linux run-time environments, allowing manufacturers to leverage existing applications while tapping into advanced real-time capabilities. The platform also complies with the IEC 61131-3 programming standard, facilitating a smooth transition from conventional PLC systems to more sophisticated automation setups, including motion control and robotics.

The AMAX family features three distinct controller categories tailored to specific applications:
1. Panel Controllers (AMAX-PT series): These incorporate Intel® Core™ and Intel Atom® processors, providing multiple display options suited for HMI-centric control concepts in factory automation.
2. Industrial PC Controllers (AMAX-7 series): These are designed for complex manufacturing processes and vision inspection, offering high expandability and diverse I/O interfaces.
3. Embedded Controllers (AMAX-5 series): These compact designs come with options for flexible expansion via AMAX-5000 Slice I/O and PCIe modules, ideal for edge data acquisition and medium-complexity control tasks.

Each platform is engineered to support comprehensive EtherCAT I/O expansion with integration protocols including MQTT, OPC UA, CANOpen, and Modbus, ensuring seamless connectivity with legacy automation systems.

Exceptional Real-Time Performance

The AMAX platform prides itself on delivering outstanding real-time performance, a claim backed by Advantech's proven optimization methodologies. The incorporation of Intel® Time Coordinated Computing (TCC) technology, paired with Advantech's BIOS engineering and automation expertise, achieves cycle times ranging from 500 microseconds to 1 millisecond with minimal jitter.

Advantech's in-house engineering team specializes in system tuning to ensure optimal real-time performance across all supported platforms, validated through dedicated verification centers, guaranteeing deterministic performance even in high-demand automation applications.

Comprehensive Software Integration

The AMAX Studio serves as a fully integrated software environment that encompasses device configuration, program development, system tuning, and diagnostics. It supports a broad spectrum of IoT automation devices, including AMAX controllers, I/O modules, and various industrial fieldbus protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, CANopen, and Modbus. By consolidating these functionalities, AMAX Studio facilitates the flexible integration of industry-specific processes, significantly cutting development time and costs.

Market Applications and Opportunities

With its microsecond-level timing accuracy, the AMAX platform meets critical requirements in precision automation, energy storage systems, and advanced machinery applications. Its unified architecture greatly simplifies the integration of vision-integrated manufacturing systems, while energy storage and infrastructure applications benefit from AMAX's flexible IoT capabilities that allow for scalable monitoring and control solutions. Machinery manufacturers can enjoy the advantages of enhanced automation without the need for radical redesigns of existing equipment architectures.

The AMAX IoT Control Platforms are now available for purchase. For additional information, visit Advantech's official website or reach out to your local Advantech sales representative.

About Advantech

Founded in 1983, Advantech stands at the forefront of providing innovative products, services, and solutions focused on automation and embedded computing. By maintaining close relationships with partners, Advantech delivers comprehensive solutions across diverse industries. With a steadfast mission to enable an intelligent planet, Advantech seeks to develop products that foster smarter working and living environments, thus paving the way for unlimited potential applications and innovations.