Advantech Introduces AMAX IoT Control Platforms
In a significant leap toward modern industrial automation, Advantech has officially unveiled its AMAX IoT control platforms. Designed to revolutionize traditional automation methods, these platforms integrate programmable logic control (PLC), human-machine interface (HMI), and Internet of Things (IoT) functionalities into a single software-defined system. With this innovation, Advantech aims to simplify conventional system integration while ensuring deterministic real-time performance crucial for precision automation applications.
Unified Control Architecture
The AMAX platform addresses the challenges caused by fragmented automation setups—where separate PLCs, HMIs, and communication modules often lead to integration difficulties and performance bottlenecks. By employing a PC-based solution that leverages EtherCAT industrial Ethernet and real-time operating systems, AMAX delivers microsecond precision suitable for semiconductor manufacturing, high-speed assembly, and image processing integrated production systems.
Built upon the CODESYS framework and designed to run on both Windows and Linux environments, AMAX empowers manufacturers to utilize existing applications while acquiring advanced real-time capabilities. The IEC 61131-3 programming environment facilitates seamless migration from traditional PLC systems and supports sophisticated motion control and robotics applications.
Scalable Controller Portfolio
The AMAX product family comprises three categories of controllers, each tailored for specific applications:
1.
Panel Controllers (AMAX-PT Series): Equipped with Intel® Core™ and Intel Atom® processors, these controllers are ideal for HMI-centric control concepts within factory automation, offering a range of display options.
2.
Industrial PC Controllers (AMAX-7 Series): With extensive I/O interfaces and high expandability, these controllers cater to complex manufacturing processes and visual inspection tasks.
3.
Embedded Controllers (AMAX-5 Series): These compact designs offer flexible expandability through AMAX-5000 Slice I/O and PCIe modules, perfectly suited for edge data acquisition and medium complexity control applications.
All AMAX platforms support comprehensive EtherCAT I/O expansion and protocol support, including MQTT, OPC UA, CANOpen, and Modbus, ensuring seamless integration with legacy automation systems.
Outstanding Real-Time Performance
Advantech sets itself apart by delivering exceptional real-time performance through its proven optimization strategies. The AMAX platform incorporates Intel® Time Coordinated Computing (TCC) technology, combined with specialized BIOS engineering and Advantech's automation control expertise, allowing cycle times of 500 μs to 1 ms with minimal jitter. The in-house engineering team at Advantech conducts specific system tuning for optimal real-time performance across all supported platforms. This test-validated approach guarantees time-deterministic performance for demanding automation applications.
Comprehensive Software Integration
AMAX Studio serves as a fully integrated software environment that facilitates device configuration, program development, system optimization, and diagnostics. It supports a variety of IoT automation devices, including AMAX controllers, I/O modules, and common industrial fieldbus protocols such as EtherCAT, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, CANopen, and Modbus. By consolidating extensive functionalities onto a single platform, AMAX Studio enables the flexible integration of industry-specific processes for the development and construction of diverse automation systems, significantly reducing development time and costs.
Industrial Applications and Market Opportunities
The AMAX platform meets critical needs in precision automation, energy storage systems, and advanced machinery applications. Its microsecond-level timing accuracy supports semiconductor devices and electronic assemblies demanding the highest precision. The unified architecture simplifies vision-integrated manufacturing systems, while its flexible IoT capabilities enable scalable monitoring and control solutions for energy storage and infrastructure applications. Machinery manufacturers can utilize advanced automation features without the need to redesign existing equipment architectures.
The AMAX IoT control platforms are now available. For further information, visit the Advantech website or contact your local Advantech sales representative.
About Advantech
Advantech, established in 1983, is a leading provider of reliable and innovative products, services, and solutions. The company offers comprehensive system integration, hardware, software, tailored design services, embedded systems, automation products, and global logistics services. Collaborating closely with partners, Advantech provides end-to-end solutions across various applications in different industries. Its mission is to enable a smart planet by developing automated and embedded computer products and solutions that facilitate smarter working and living environments. The possibilities for applications and innovations with Advantech's products are endless.
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