Panels as powerful as an industrial PC
New generation of Power Panels from B&R Automation handles applications that used to require full industrial PCs.
B&R Industrial Automation has announced its new Power Panel 500 generation, which is equipped with Intel Atom Z510, Z520, and Z530 processors. This family can handle the kind of performance that used to demand an industrial PC. Designed using modern Intel Atom architecture, users can take advantage of a combination of low power dissipation and top performance at an attractive price. All Power Panel 500 units can be equipped with up to 2 GB of main memory, so that even the most challenging applications can be handled optimally.
The extensive product range includes panels ranging from 5.7 in. VGA, to 15 in. XGA displays. An intuitive touch screen and function keys provide an excellent foundation for user-friendly operating concepts.
Gigabit Ethernet ensures fast communication over the plant network. There is also the option of adding an additional Gigabit Ethernet interface if needed. Remote I/O and drives can be easily connected using modular fieldbus interfaces. Depending on requirements, Power Panel devices can be expanded with Powerlink, CAN bus, Profibus DP, or other fieldbus interfaces. This allows additional topologies to be easily implemented at a later date.
The Power Panel 500 bridges the gap between the real-time operating system and standard operating systems such as Windows CE, Windows XP, and Windows 7. It is also possible to use Windows and the real-time operating system together. Universal application possibilities reduce logistics considerably because the same system platform is always used.
B&R says that with the integration of control, visualization, and drive technology in one device, the intelligent Power Panel 500 can connect easily to various automation infrastructures. During the design phase, a great deal of attention was given to minimizing installation depth so that they can be used in tight spaces, along with the harshest industrial environments and still deliver the highest level of reliability and operating comfort.
Edited by Peter Welander, pwelander@cfemedia.com
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