Technology Update for Embedded Industrial PCs

All the computers are now equipped with powerful third-generation Intel Core i7 processors, which are well suited for permanent operation in maintenance-free automation solutions such as those utilized at wind and solar power plants or tire factories.

The embedded Simatic-series industrial PCs produced in Germany need to be able to handle extremely demanding operating conditions at such facilities. In addition to becoming more popular in the consumer sector, touchscreens are now being increasingly used in industrial applications.

One of Siemens' industrial panel PCs now features a touchscreen, for example, and the associated modernization of the design of this Simatic unit resulted in Siemens receiving the coveted IF Product Design Award in 2012.

The technology update carried out by Siemens Industry Automation has doubled the performance of the fan-less IPC427D and IPC477D PC models to as much as 2.4 GHz. A further benefit offered by embedded Intel Core i7 processors is their integrated ATM technology, which makes it possible to service the PCs remotely using Simatic IPC Remote software, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

The absence of rotating parts such as fans and conventional hard drives in the industrial PCs allows for permanent 24-hour operation without servicing interruptions. The PCs are equipped with extremely robust mass storage devices that can handle tough industrial environments, while an integrated flash drive and a solid-state drive with a capacity of up to 80 gigabytes ensure both permanent operation and a high level of data security.

A remanence storage device is also optionally available for safeguarding machine data in the event of a power outage, in which case the device will save all key process data to a chip. The computers can withstand temperatures as high as 55 degrees Celsius and will continue to operate reliably even if shaken or exposed to vibrations.