According to industry standards, the typical temperature range for industrial PCs is 0 to 55 degrees C. However, temperatures in many areas of use deviate considerably from this norm - in both extremes.
The new extended-temperature version of the Kontron ThinkIO-P covers an extended temperature range (-40 to 70 degrees C) with its ultra-low voltage processor. This is achieved by means of suitably temperature-resistant components and the ingenious passive cooling concept that is fan-less both inside and outside.
With an optional fieldbus, the extended temperature range is between -20 and 70 degrees C; for the optional Wago I/O system 750, Wago offers selected components for a temperature range of -20 to 60 degrees C.
The extended-temperature version of Kontron ThinkIO-P is equipped with a 1GHz Intel Celeron M processor and 256MB RAM. The exclusive passively-cooled Kontron ThinkIO-P in a robust aluminium chassis offers, along with its high computing power and internal flash, among other things, a Compact-Flash socket that can be used as a data storage unit or for backup/updates and all standard PC interfaces (two USB ports, DVI analogue and digital, and serial).
With two independent fast Ethernet interfaces, each with two opto-isolated digital I/O (24 V DC) and optional fieldbuses (Profibus, Canopen or Devicenet interfaces), the controller is optimally equipped for integration into modern and classic industrial networks and, in addition, also performs gateway and firewall functions for vertical integration when needed.
Operating system support is offered for Windows XP Embedded and Linux. A soft PLC on Realtime Linux is also optionally available. A watchdog and real-time clock complete the system's features.
By means of the form-fit and contamination-proof connection of the intelligent terminals of the granular 750 and 753I /O systems from Wago, the Kontron ThinkIO-P achieves a high degree of freedom in the design of application-specific I/O configurations. At the same time, not only can the classic analogue and digital interfaces be inserted at various potential levels, but also variants such as AS-i Bus, SSI, incremental encoders, and serial interface modules with RS232 and RS485 interfaces.
Areas of use with high shock and vibration resistance requirements and high EMC requirements are just as critical as very high or low temperatures. In these instances the Kontron ThinkIO-P is suitable for certifications in the maritime or rail sectors. According to Germanischer Lloyd, when mounting motors or compressors, it is important to remember that a Category D and thus a 4g vibration test are relevant.
By comparison, the industry standard according to EN 61311-2 and IEC 60068-2-6 is 1g. To meet the specifications of the corresponding norms, during the development of the Kontron ThinkIO-P no rotating or moving components were used. For that reason, the Kontron ThinkIO-P features exclusively soldered main storage (RAM) and mass storage (flash); no rotating media are used.
EMC resistance is also very important today, since systems must be guaranteed to function reliably even in the event of wire disturbances, electrostatic discharges or strong electromagnetic fields. By means of its completely closed aluminium chassis, the Kontron ThinkIO-P meets the requirements of EN 55022/Class B (emitted interference; EN 61000-6-4). The Kontron ThinkIO-P also meets the necessary requirements concerning emissions, a corresponding 1 kV surge test, and an 8 kV ESD test.
For more information, visit www.kontron.com
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