IIoT Connector+
The Easy Bridge for Data and Updates
Turn Machine Data into IT-ready Information.
Machine automation and IT are fundamentally different domains. The IIoT Connector+ was developed to bridge these worlds by making machine data accessible to higher-level IT systems, simplifying the selection, integration and forwarding of relevant data, and enabling scalable PLC software updates in the field.
The main benefit is that machine data can be made available to higher-level IT systems. Instead of developing custom interfaces for each end customer, relevant PLC data can be selected via OPC UA and forwarded directly to MES and IT systems via MQTT with minimal engineering and integration effort.
Use Cases
Make machine data easy to use
Make B&R machine data immediately usable for IT applications. The IIoT Connector+ simplifies machine data integration and helps you connect machines to IT systems with less effort.
With the IIoT Connector+, you can easily integrate IT functions into your machines. Using standardized protocols such as MQTT, you can quickly connect and implement machine data as well as customer-specific requirements with MES, cloud, or other IT systems, without the need for complex custom interface development.
Bridging the Last Mile for Software Updates
Driven by the Cyber Resilience Act, scalable software update deployment for installed machines is becoming increasingly important. The IIoT Connector's software update mechanism extends software update workflows all the way to the PLC, enabling end-to-end update processes from IT systems down to the shop floor.
As a standardized low-level API, the software update mechanism can be integrated into higher-level IT systems, such as service platform solutions. This enables software updates to be prepared, automated, and deployed at scale directly to the PLC. Features such as software versions of B&R assets within the machine, integrated backup functionality, and virtual dry runs help minimize risks before installation and ensure reliable update execution.
All benefits at a glance
Make Machine Data Easy to Use
Reduce OT/IT Integration Effort
Connect machine data and IT applications using standardized interfaces and protocols such as OPC UA and MQTT. This enables seamless integration of MES, cloud, and other IT systems without the need for complex custom interface development.
Data-Driven Applications
Automatic asset discovery and preconfigured OT/IT connectors reduce engineering effort and speed up the implementation of data-driven applications.
Simplify IT/OT Integration
Hardware-Independent and Flexible
Deploy the IIoT Connector+ on-premises or in cloud environments, and integrate it into your existing IT infrastructure.
Greater Flexibility through Open IT Standards
Based on Linux and Docker technologies, the IIoT Connector+ follows established IT standards and integrates easily into existing OT/IT architectures. This reduces dependency on custom workarounds and provides a future-ready foundation for further IT integrations.
Make Software Updates Easy to Execute
Simplify Compliance with CRA Requirements
The IIoT Connector's software update mechanism bridges the last mile to the PLC, enabling software update workflows that support compliance with Cyber Resilience Act requirements.
Technical Specifications
- Linux- and Docker-based containerized service
- Deployment on edge devices or virtualized environments
- Automation Runtime ≥ 4.2 for machine data integration
- Automation Runtime 6.x for software update functionality
- OPC UA on the southbound side and MQTT/NATS/Redis on the northbound side
- Open APIs for IT, database and cloud integration
IT/OT Ecosystem for the IIoT Connector+
B&R Edge Devices provide the technical infrastructure required to run applications such as the IIoT Connector+. They connect machines, controllers and IT systems, enabling secure-by-architecture data exchange between IT and OT.
Edge Devices
X20 Edge
The X20 Edge is a compact, cost-effective edge device for standard IIoT use cases. Equipped with a Linux operating system out of the box, it is ready for the deployment of applications such as the IIoT Connector+. OPC UA and cloud connectivity, two independent Ethernet ports, an optional 4G variant and a Docker-capable environment make it an ideal platform for connecting machines, applications and IT systems.
APC 3100/3200
For data-intensive Industrial IoT applications, the IIoT Connector+ can be deployed on an APC 3100 or APC 3200 to provide additional computing power and scalability. This enables the processing of larger data volumes and supports multiple connected machines and applications.
Remote Service
SecureRemote
Secure Remote provides secure remote access to machines worldwide. All connections are encrypted and designed to meet IT security requirements, while allowing machines and user permissions to be managed centrally.
The solution is available either as a dedicated hardware device installed close to the machine (SiteManager) or as an embedded software solution that runs without additional hardware, including on supported edge devices.