Kontron ThinkIO Embedded IPC with Intel Celeron M Processor

Both the Kontron ThinkIO-Solo and ThinkIO-Duo include robust aluminium housing, compact flash socket for adding mass storage, standard PC interfaces, and field bus options including industrial Ethernet and a modular I/O interface option. The Kontron ThinkIO enables remote access and connection to a company's IT infrastructure (ERP systems and databases) while simultaneously providing control functionality at the field level. The interrupt capable onboard inputs can be used to trigger a rapid response to events, such as failure of the external 24 V power supply when using the optional 10ms holdup module according to IEC61131-2/severity level PS2 or when traversing an end stop switch. A watchdog timer and real-time clock are also included.

Kontron also expanded the software portfolio for its long term available family of embedded IPCs. The new Debian desktop distribution, specifically tailored to the Kontron ThinkIO, includes a convenient PC interface, which enables faster development time. Along with the easy integration of existing software, the user-friendly interfaces help improve customer time to market. Powerful packet-management software for easy upgrading and version control is also included. The new Debian desktop distribution, in addition to Windows XP Embedded and real-time Linux cross compile package, give customers more software options for higher flexibility.

The usage of Linux operating systems has been steadily increasing over recent years and they continue to be a popular choice for automation projects. The decisive benefits include long-term availability, and therefore know-how investment protection, stability, universal communication, visualization, and virtualization.

The fanless Kontron ThinkIO Embedded IPCs are reliable platforms, ideal for use in shock and vibration prone environments and offer a MTBF of over 22 years in the base variant. Extended temperature versions are offered and implemented on a project base. The Kontron ThinkIO Embedded IPCs offer OEM customers the benefit of reduced time-to-market since they can build upon an open platform and focus on core competences, such as application software programming and system/portfolio integration. The maintenance-free, flexible and robust design reduces the total cost of ownership for end customers.