The ultra-compact, integrated ACOPOSmulti solution offers the highest degree of efficiency for multi-axis machines implemented in a wide range of industries such as the plastics, packaging, print, and textile industries. The modular cooling concept that can be flexibly adapted to any installation, the user-friendly cabling, as well as the compactness and scalability of the performance are all factors that make the ACOPOSmulti so easy to use. Machine manufacturers use ACOPOSmulti units to achieve maximum performance in minimum space, which in turn means a decisive cost advantage. The range of applications includes sensor-free induction motors, permanent magnet servo motors, and ultra-dynamic linear motors. With the APC820, B&R engineers have successfully integrated the highest level of PC performance in ACOPOSmulti devices. This saves even more space in the switching cabinet, by freeing up space otherwise required for the PC.
Highest performance for Windows XP and real-time
In the APC820, high-performance Core™2 Duo processors ensure that the most demanding automation and visualization systems run optimally. With the Core™2 Duo, the highest level of performance and a low level of power loss are achieved because Windows XP and the real-time operating system run parallel to each other on separate processor cores. It is up to the user to reserve a processor core exclusively for real-time or to release it for Windows. The available computing power from both cores is optimally used. The project is easily developed in B&R Automation Studio. Completely new options and complex automation tasks that were previously distributed over a number of system platforms (e.g. controller, Windows computer, etc.) are now brought together in a single device. With the integrated Smart Display Link in APC820, up to four automation panels can be connected over a distance of up to 160 m. Complex processes on physically separated machines can easily be controlled on site - a distinct advantage for commissioning, operation and service.
Communication in all directions
A wide range of onboard interfaces allows the APC820 to be optimally integrated in an automation system. Real-time communication between APC820, I/Os and drives occurs on POWERLINK interface, which also comes standard. This helps achieve cycle times down to 200 µs and ultra-precise timing < 1 µs. The two Gigabit Ethernet interfaces provide machine level communication that is completely separated from the connection to the company network. There is an additional CAN interface available for the connection of additional devices.
Reliability for many years
The PC market is subject to permanent change, which results in large numbers of both new developments and discontinuations. At the same time, manufacturers of series products are looking for hardware and software revisions that are easy to follow. Guaranteed long-term availability of the components is also an important requirement. B&R has proven with its current products, that these conflicting goals can be reconciled, even for PCs. In the careful selection of components, high-quality and long-term availability are key criteria.
In the area of processors and chipsets, only components from the Intel® embedded division are used, which have proven long-term availability. The advantages for the user are clear: Consistent software version management in series production, and simple maintenance in the field minimize running costs.
Long-term compatibility is also considered during construction. This type of vision has helped B&R achieve product lifecycles of ten years and longer, and has given the company a special position in the fast-paced PC market.
Robust for tough industrial use
The APC820 was designed for the toughest environments. Not a single internal cable connection was used during construction. This has made it possible to achieve maximum vibration resistance and operational safety.
Free of any rotating parts, CompactFlash cards are the optimum storage media for usage in the machine.
